A scheme for symmetrization verification

We propose a scheme for symmetrization verification in two-particle systems, based on one-particle detection and state determination. In contrast to previous proposals, it does not follow a Hong-Ou-Mandel-type approach. Moreover, the technique can be used to generate superposition states of single particles

White noise flashing Brownian pump

A Brownian pump of particles powered by a stochastic flashing ratchet mechanism is studied. The pumping device is embedded in a finite region and bounded by particle reservoirs. In the steady state, we exactly calculate the spatial density profile, the concentration ratio between both reservoirs and the particle flux. A simple numerical scheme is presented allowing for the consistent evaluation of all such observable quantities

Coexistence of Quantum Theory and Special Relativity in signaling scenarios

The coexistence between Quantum Mechanics and Special Relativity is usually formulated in terms of the no-signaling condition. Several authors have even suggested that this condition should be included between the basic postulates of Quantum Theory. However, there are several scenarios where signaling is, in principle, possible: based on previous results and the analysis of the relation between unitarity and signaling we present an example of a two-particle interferometric arrangement for which the dynamics is, in principle, compatible with superluminal transmission of information. This type of non-locality is not in the line of Bell's theorem, but closer in spirit to the one-particle acausality studied by Hegerfeldt and others. We analyze in this paper the meaning of this non-locality and how to preserve the coexistence of the two fundamental theories in this signaling scenario.Comment: See also the comment by G C Hegerfeldt in the online version of the journal, including more reference

Photosynthetic performance of Xanthoria mawsonii C. W. Dodge in coastal habitats, Ross Sea region, continental Antarctica

Xanthoria mawsonii C. W. Dodge was found to perform well physiologically in a variety of habitats at high latitudes in continental Antarctica. The net photosynthetic rate of 7•5 μ mol CO2 kg−1 s−1 is exceptionally high for Antarctic lichens. Field and laboratory measurements proved the photosynthetic apparatus to be highly adapted to strong irradiance. The cold resistance of the photosystem II reaction centres is higher than the photosynthetic CO2 fixation process. Optimum temperature for net photosynthesis was c. 10°C. The lichen grows along water channels where it is frequently inundated and hydrated to maximum water content, although net photosynthesis is strongly depressed by super saturation. In these habitats the lichen is photosynthetically active for long periods of time. Xanthoria mawsonii also grows at sites where it depends entirely on the early spring snow melt and occasional snow fall for moisture. It has an exceptionally short reactivation phase and is able to utilize snow immediately. Recovery of activity by absorbing water vapour from air, though practically possible, seems to be of ecological importance only under snow at subzero temperatures

Photosynthetic responses of three common mosses from continental Antarctica

Predicting the effects of climate change on Antarctic terrestrial vegetation requires a better knowledge of the ecophysiology of common moss species. In this paper we provide a comprehensive matrix for photosynthesis and major environmental parameters for three dominant Antarctic moss species (Bryum subrotundifolium, B. pseudotriquetrum and Ceratodon purpureus). Using locations in southern Victoria Land, (Granite Harbour, 77°S) and northern Victoria Land (Cape Hallett, 72°S) we determined the responses of net photosynthesis and dark respiration to thallus water content, thallus temperature, photosynthetic photon flux densities and CO2 concentration over several summer seasons. The studies also included microclimate recordings at all sites where the research was carried out in field laboratories. Plant temperature was influenced predominantly by the water regime at the site with dry mosses being warmer. Optimal temperatures for net photosynthesis were 13.7°C, 12.0°C and 6.6°C for B. subrotundifolium, B. pseudotriquetrum and C. purpureus, respectively and fall within the known range for Antarctic mosses. Maximal net photosynthesis at 10°C ranked as B. subrotundifolium > B. pseudotriquetrum > C. purpureus. Net photosynthesis was strongly depressed at subzero temperatures but was substantial at 0°C. Net photosynthesis of the mosses was not saturated by light at optimal water content and thallus temperature. Response of net photosynthesis to increase in water content was as expected for mosses although B. subrotundifolium showed a large depression (60%) at the highest hydrations. Net photosynthesis of both B. subrotundifolium and B. pseudotriquetrum showed a large response to increase in CO2 concentration and this rose with increase in temperature; saturation was not reached for B. pseudotriquetrum at 20°C. There was a high level of variability for species at the same sites in different years and between different locations. This was substantial enough to make prediction of the effects of climate change very difficult at the moment

Phase Separation Driven by External Fluctuations

The influence of external fluctuations in phase separation processes is analysed. These fluctuations arise from random variations of an external control parameter. A linear stability analysis of the homogeneous state shows that phase separation dynamics can be induced by external noise. The spatial structure of the noise is found to have a relevant role in this phenomenon. Numerical simulations confirm these results. A comparison with order-disorder noise induced phase transitions is also made.Comment: 4 pages, 4 Postscript figures included in text. LaTeX (with Revtex macros