Quantum-based Mechanical Force Realization in Pico-Newton Range

We propose mechanical force realization based on flux quantization in the pico-Newton range. By controlling the number of flux quantum in a superconducting annulus, a force can be created as integer multiples of a constant step. For a 50 nm-thick Nb annulus with the inner and outer radii of 5 $\mu$m and 10 $\mu$m, respectively, and the field gradient of 10 T/m the force step is estimated to be 184 fN. The stability against thermal fluctuations is also addressed.Comment: 5 pages; 4 figure

Tip-Enhanced Raman Scattering Imaging of Two-Dimensional Tungsten Disulfide with Optimized Tip Fabrication Process

We successfully achieve the tip-enhanced nano Raman scattering images of a tungsten disulfide monolayer with optimizing a fabrication method of gold nanotip by controlling the concentration of etchant in an electrochemical etching process. By applying a square-wave voltage supplied from an arbitrary waveform generator to a gold wire, which is immersed in a hydrochloric acid solution diluted with ethanol at various ratios, we find that both the conical angle and radius of curvature of the tip apex can be varied by changing the ratio of hydrochloric acid and ethanol. We also suggest a model to explain the origin of these variations in the tip shape. From the systematic study, we find an optimal condition for achieving the yield of similar to 60% with the radius of similar to 34 nm and the cone angle of similar to 35 degrees. Using representative tips fabricated under the optimal etching condition, we demonstrate the tip-enhanced Raman scattering experiment of tungsten disulfide monolayer grown by a chemical vapor deposition method with a spatial resolution of similar to 40 nm and a Raman enhancement factor of similar to 4,760. © The Author(s) 2017

Total Gastrectomy in Gastric Conduit Cancer

We report a very rare case of surgery on gastric conduit cancer. A 67-year-old male patient underwent esophagectomy and intrathoracic esophagogastrostomy for squamous cell carcinoma of the lower thoracic esophagus 27 months ago. Upon follow-up, a gastric carcinoma at the intra-abdominal part of the gastric conduit was found on an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. We performed total gastrectomy and esophagocolonojejunostomy in the manner of Roux-en-Y anastomosis. The postoperative course was not eventful and an esophagogram on the 10th postoperative day showed no leakage or stenosis of the passage. The patient was discharged on the 17th day with no complications

Flake Orientation in Injection Molding of Pigmented Thermoplastics

In the present work, experimental studies are carried out to understand orientation kinematics of pigment flakes during the injection molding process. The injection molding experiments are carried out using ABS resin compounded with aluminum flakes. Thin specimens are sliced off from the injection molded sample, and then the orientation distribution is observed using transmitted microscopy. Generally, the microscopic result shows a sandwich structure where the orientation state near the mid-plane differs significantly from that around the surface. Particularly at the weldline region, locally different orientation is observed near the part surface, which is the result of fountain flow at the melt front. Also the effect of mold temperature on the flake orientation is presented

COMPARISON OF PROPRIOCEPTION PERCEPTION TEST BETWEEN GOLFER AND NON-GOLFER USING TILTING PLATFORM

The purpose of this study was to test proprioception perception and compare between collegiate golfers and non-golfers using tilting platform. Sixteen male and fourteen female golfers and fifteen male and thirteen non-golfers were participated. All participants were performed perception test on the tilting platform. Frequency analysis and independent t-test were performed using SPSS 24.0. Alpha set at .05. Most participants were perceived from 1° to 2° of slopes and perceived left-right (target direction) slope than forward-backward slope. Repeated practice such as walking on the uneven ground or standing on sloped ground might help to improve proprioception perception. Further research using a tilting platform will be to develop the training program