Non-Lorentzian line shapes for interfering rotational resonances in the predissociation of O(2)

Rotationally resolved measurements are presented of interacting predissociating resonances in the Schumann-Runge bands of O₂that exhibit destructive quantum interference for energies between the line centers. The interacting resonances are described using a coupled line shape derived by treating simultaneously the perturbation and predissociation processes using the method of Fano.B. R. Lewis, P. M. Dooley, J. P. England, S. T. Gibson, and K. G. H. Baldwin, L. W. Toro

Asymmetry sum rule for molecular predissociation

© 2000 American Physical SocietyIn the case of weak diatomic molecular predissociation by noninteracting, optically inactive continuum states, it is demonstrated that the predissociation line shape is more accurately represented by a Beutler-Fano profile than by a Lorentzian. The weak asymmetry that is found to occur is due principally to interactions with neighboring vibrational resonances. For this type of predissociation in the case of multiple continua, a sum rule for the corresponding line-shape asymmetry is derived. This sum rule is verified numerically using single-channel and multichannel coupled Schrödinger-equation calculations for the Schumann-Runge band system of O2. Similar results are presented for the case of optically active continua.F. T. Hawes, L. W. Torop, B. R. Lewis and S. T. Gibso

Morphing in nature and beyond: a review of natural and synthetic shape-changing materials and mechanisms

Shape-changing materials open an entirely new solution space for a wide range of disciplines: from architecture that responds to the environment and medical devices that unpack inside the body, to passive sensors and novel robotic actuators. While synthetic shape-changing materials are still in their infancy, studies of biological morphing materials have revealed key paradigms and features which underlie efficient natural shape-change. Here, we review some of these insights and how they have been, or may be, translated to artificial solutions. We focus on soft matter due to its prevalence in nature, compatibility with users and potential for novel design. Initially, we review examples of natural shape-changing materials—skeletal muscle, tendons and plant tissues—and compare with synthetic examples with similar methods of operation. Stimuli to motion are outlined in general principle, with examples of their use and potential in manufactured systems. Anisotropy is identified as a crucial element in directing shape-change to fulfil designed tasks, and some manufacturing routes to its achievement are highlighted. We conclude with potential directions for future work, including the simultaneous development of materials and manufacturing techniques and the hierarchical combination of effects at multiple length scales.</p

Degree of behavioral neoteny differentiates Canid polymorphs

As with juvenile wolves or coyotes, adult livestock conducting dogs displayed the first-half segment of a functional predatory system of motor patterns and did not express play or social bonding toward sheep; whereas, like wolf or coyote pups, adult livestock protecting dogs displayed sequences of mixed social, submissive, play and investigatory motor patterns and rarely expressed during ontogeny (even when fully adult) predatory behaviors. The most parsimonious explanation of our findings is that behavioral differences in the two types of livestock dogs are a case of selected differential retardation (neoteny) of ancestral motor pattern development

The UBORA E-Infrastructure for Open Source Innovation in Medical Technology

The development of medical devices with open source and collaborative design methodologies has the potential to increase the access to medical technologies, thanks to a feasible reduction of design, management, maintenance, and repairing costs linked to the open access of device blueprints. UBORA is an e-infrastructure for the co-design of open source medical devices, which promotes the compliance with internationally recognized quality standards and regulations for safety and efficacy of devices, taking the EN ISO 13485:2016 and the EU MDR 2017/745 as inspiration. UBORA guides the user through a systematic design process, from the identification of clinical needs, of risks class and relevant standards for the device, and provides project management tools, including a repository, finalized to the preparation of the pre-production device dossier. The process is supervised by expert mentors, which ensure that safety and efficacy criteria are fulfilled. The UBORA e-infrastructure is in line with the 2030 Agenda for the Sustainable Development Goals, promoting and strengthening the initiatives of an international community of designers, healthcare providers and policy-makers, toward the reduction of inequalities in the access to medical devices