Continuous repetition rate tuning with timing window independent self-seeding of a gain-switched Fabry-PÉrot Laser

In this work, we propose a novel self-seeding technique that yields timing window independent operation allowing continuous repetition rate tuning of the self-seeded gain-switched (SSGS) laser. This is achieved by employing a highly linearly chirped fiber Bragg grating (LC FBG) as a wavelength selective element. The reflected gain-switched pulses are dispersed to such an extent, that temporal overlap occurs between them. This overlap creates a pseudo continues wave like signal that is re-injected into the gain-switched laser

Searching For Security: India’s Role in the Post-War Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal

This article aims to analyse New Delhi’s role in post-war Nepal, understood as part of its search for security in its periphery. India has been deeply involved in Nepali affairs since Independence, holding an influential position which has often engendered resentment, but which was nevertheless important in negotiating an end to the Maoists’ People’s War in 2006. Since engaging the Maoists, with whom New Delhi had a historically hostile relationship, India has appeared inclined to be seen as a supportive larger neighbour rather than an imposing regional hegemon. This, as an attempt to improve regional relations, can still be understood as an approach heavily defined by security concerns, supporting actors and strategies considered most conducive to stability; indeed Indian actors have a multitude of interests in Nepal, from border security to hydropower. In the post-war period Nepal faces many challenges, chief among which are the ever inconclusive constitution and peace process; these are essential to forging a Nepali state that is balanced between the many diverse political groups and inclusive of ethno-regional minorities, in order to ensure stability in Nepal and India’s sensitive Himalayan border region. It can thus be considered in India’s interests to support and engage the often divergent Nepali political groups, while avoiding appearing intrusive, to overcome the protracted and tumultuous political impasse and form a durable government

Assimilating the Martian water cycle

Water ice clouds have been shown to alter the thermal structure of the Martian atmosphere. Here we discuss the assimilation of total column water vapour and dust optical depth data from the Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES) into the UK/LMD MGCM, and compare the predictions of cloud and temperature in the assimilation with observations

Water ice clouds in a martian global climate model using data assimilation

The water cycle is one of the key seasonal cycles on Mars, and the radiative effects of water ice clouds have recently been shown to alter the thermal structure of the atmosphere. Current Mars General Circulation Models (MGCMs) are capable of representing the formation and evolution of water ice clouds, though there are still many unanswered questions regarding their effect on the water cycle, the local atmosphere and the global circulation. We discuss the properties of clouds in the LMD/UK MGCM and compare them with observations, focusing on the differences between the water ice clouds in a standalone model and those in a model which has been modified by assimilation of thermal and aerosol opacity spacecraft data

Wavelength tunable lasers in future optical communication systems

Monolithic tunable lasers (TL) have been an important component in dense wavelength division multiplexed (DWDM) systems mainly because of their ability to reduce inventory costs associated with different part numbers for fixed wavelength distributed feedback (DFB) lasers. Moreover, the use of wavelength agile laser diodes in DWDM networks has gained a lot of interest in recent years, due to emerging new applications such as optical switching and routing, which require fast switching lasers in the nanosecond regime (Coldren et al., 2000). Employment of such lasers as tunable transmitters in wavelength packet switched (WPS) networks is one of the possible applications of these devices. In such systems, the information to be transmitted could be encoded onto a destination dependent wavelength and the routing of traffic could be performed on a packet-by-packet basis. The utilization of TLs in an optical switching and routing environment would put stringent requirements on its performance. This would include increased tuning range, high side mode suppression ratio (SMSR), reduced switching time and excellent wavelength stability. The sampled-grating distributed Bragg reflector (SG DBR) TL proves to be an ideal candidate, due to its large tuning range (40 nm), high output power (10 dBm), high side mode suppression ratio (SMSR > 30 dB) and simplicity of integration

Bioactivity in Whey Proteins Influencing Energy Balance

Peer-reviewedObesity develops due to energy (food) intake exceeding energy expenditure. Nutrients that reduce the positive energy balance are thus being considered as therapies to combat obesity. Here, we review the literature related to the physiological, cellular and endocrine effects of intake of whey proteins, namely α-lactalbumin, β-lactoglobulin, glycomacropeptide and lactoferrin. Moreover, we discuss how dietary composition and obesity may influence whey protein effects on the above parameters. Evidence suggests that intake of whey proteins causes a decrease in energy intake, increase in energy expenditure, influence insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis and alter lipid metabolism in the adipose, liver and muscle. These physiological changes are accompanied by alterations in the plasma levels of energy balance related hormones (cholecystokinin, ghrelin, insulin and glucagon-like peptide-1) and the expression of catabolic and anabolic genes in the above tissue in the direction to cause a negative energy balance

Characterization of wavelength tunable lasers for future optical communication systems

The use of tunable lasers (TL) in dense wavelength division multiplexed (DWDM) networks for optical switching, routing and networking has gained a lot of interest in recent years. Employment of such TLs as tunable transmitters in wavelength packet switched (WPS) networks is one of the possible applications of these devices. In such systems, the information to be transmitted could be encoded onto a destination dependent wavelength and the routing of traffic could be performed on a packet-by-packet basis. The authors investigate the possibility of using TLs in DWDM WPS networks by focusing on the characterisation of the instantaneous frequency drift of a TL due to wavelength tuning and direct modulation. Characterization of the linewidth of the TLs is also presented to verify the feasibility of using TLs in systems employing advanced modulation formats

Triple-wavelength fiber ring laser based on a hybrid gain medium actively mode-locked at 10 GHz

A fiber ring laser based on a hybrid gain medium that produces three simultaneously mode-locked wavelength channels is presented. The lithium niobate based modulator used to actively mode-lock the laser cavity at 10 GHz is birefringence compensated to reduce its polarization sensitivity. A Lyot filter defines the lasers multiwavelength spectrum which has a wavelength spacing of 1 nm. The polarization sensitive nature of the laser cavity and its affect on the performance of the laser is discussed

CELL BIOLOGY. GATA get a hold on senescence.

A transcription factor's abundance connects autophagy to cellular senescence and a secretory phenotype [Also see Research Article by Kang et al. ] This is the author accepted manuscript. The final version is available from AAAS via http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.aad250

‘Hand in Glove’: using qualitative methods to connect research and practice

Recent work has espoused the idea that within applied sporting environments, 'fast' working practitioners should work together with 'slow' working researchers. However, due to economical and logistical constraints, such a coupling may not always be practical. Therefore, alternative means of combining research and applied practice are needed. A particular methodology, which has been utilized in recent years, is qualitative research. Examples of qualitative methods include the use of online surveys, one-on-one interviews, and focus groups. This article aims to discuss the merits of using qualitative methods to combine applied practice and research in sport science. This includes a discussion of recent examples of the use of such methods in published journal articles, a critique of the approaches employed, and future directions and recommendations. The authors encourage both practitioners and researchers to utilize and engage with qualitative research with the ultimate goal of benefitting athlete health and sporting performance