Static flux bias of a flux qubit using persistent current trapping

Qubits based on the magnetic flux degree of freedom require a flux bias, whose stability and precision strongly affect the qubit performance, up to a point of forbidding the qubit operation. Moreover, in the perspective of multiqubit systems, it must be possible to flux-bias each qubit independently, hence avoiding the traditional use of externally generated magnetic fields in favour of on-chip techniques that minimize cross-couplings. The solution discussed in this paper exploits a persistent current, trapped in a superconducting circuit integrated on chip that can be inductively coupled with an individual qubit. The circuit does not make use of resistive elements that can be detrimental for the qubit coherence. The trapping procedure allows to control and change stepwise the amount of stored current; after that, the circuit can be completely disconnected from the external sources. We show in a practical case how this works and how to drive the bias circuit at the required value.Comment: 5 figures submitted to Superconductor Science and Technolog

Extremely early stage of ferroelastic domain formation observed by laser refraction

The initial domain formation process in a ferroelastic crystal KD3(SeO3)2 is observed by a method that utilizes laser light refraction at the ferroelastic domain structures. The high sensitivity of this method enables us to detect the refracted light even above the transition point (Tc). The intensity level extends down three orders of magnitude smaller than that caused by the domains below Tc. This implies the embryos of the ferroelastic domains already exist in the high-temperature phase as the inhomogeneous strain field

Embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells: understanding, creating, and exploiting the nano-niche for regenerative medicine.

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have the capacity to differentiate into any specialized cell type of the human body, and therefore, ESC/iPSC-derived cell types offer great potential for regenerative medicine. However, key to realizing this potential requires a strong understanding of stem cell biology, techniques to maintain stem cells, and strategies to manipulate cells to efficiently direct cell differentiation toward a desired cell type. As nanoscale science and engineering continues to produce novel nanotechnology platforms, which inform, infiltrate, and impinge on many aspects of everyday life, it is no surprise that stem cell research is turning toward developments in nanotechnology to answer research questions and to overcome obstacles in regenerative medicine. Here we discuss recent advances in ESC and iPSC manipulation using nanomaterials and highlight future challenges within this area of research

Extremely early stage of ferroelastic domain formation observed by laser refraction

The initial domain formation process in a ferroelastic crystal KD3(SeO3)2 is observed by a method that utilizes laser light refraction at the ferroelastic domain structures. The high sensitivity of this method enables us to detect the refracted light even above the transition point (Tc). The intensity level extends down three orders of magnitude smaller than that caused by the domains below Tc. This implies the embryos of the ferroelastic domains already exist in the high-temperature phase as the inhomogeneous strain field