Transition frequency shifts with fine-structure constant variation for Yb II

In this paper we report calculations of the relativistic corrections to transition frequencies (q factors) of Yb II for the transitions from the odd-parity states to the metastable state 4f^{13}6s^2 ^2F_{7/2}^o. These transitions are of particular interest experimentally since they possess some of the largest q factors calculated to date and the $^2F_{7/2}^o$ state can be prepared with high efficiency. This makes Yb II a very attractive candidate for the laboratory search for variation of the fine-structure constant alpha.Comment: 5 page

A case study of argumentation at undergraduate level in history

This article examines two essays by undergraduate students in the first year of study in History at a university in the UK. It also draws on documentary evidence from the department in question and interviews with the students themselves to paint a picture of the way argumentation operates at this level. While no firm conclusions can be drawn, the evidence suggests a department with a high degree of awareness of the importance of argument and argumentation in studying History; and students who are aware and articulate about the problem facing them in constructing essays in the discipline. Suggestions are made about induction into the epistemological and argumentative demands of undergraduate study