Cluster size entropy in the Axelrod model of social influence: small-world networks and mass media

We study the Axelrod's cultural adaptation model using the concept of cluster size entropy, $S_{c}$ that gives information on the variability of the cultural cluster size present in the system. Using networks of different topologies, from regular to random, we find that the critical point of the well-known nonequilibrium monocultural-multicultural (order-disorder) transition of the Axelrod model is unambiguously given by the maximum of the $S_{c}(q)$ distributions. The width of the cluster entropy distributions can be used to qualitatively determine whether the transition is first- or second-order. By scaling the cluster entropy distributions we were able to obtain a relationship between the critical cultural trait $q_c$ and the number $F$ of cultural features in regular networks. We also analyze the effect of the mass media (external field) on social systems within the Axelrod model in a square network. We find a new partially ordered phase whose largest cultural cluster is not aligned with the external field, in contrast with a recent suggestion that this type of phase cannot be formed in regular networks. We draw a new $q-B$ phase diagram for the Axelrod model in regular networks.Comment: 21 pages, 7 figure

Mixed-mode impedance and reflection coefficient of two-port devices

From the point of view of mixed-mode scattering parameters, Smm, a two-port device can be excited using different driving conditions. Each condition leads to a particular set of input reflection and input impedance coefficient definitions that should be carefully applied depending on the type of excitation and symmetry of the two-port device. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to explain the general analytic procedure for the evaluation of such reflection and impedance coefficients in terms of mixed-mode scattering parameters. Moreover, the driving of a two-port device as a one-port device is explained as a particular case of a two-port mixed-mode excitation using a given set of mixed-mode loads. The theory is applied to the evaluation of the quality factor, Q, of symmetrical and non- symmetrical inductors.Ministerio de Innovación y Ciencia TEC2010-14825/MIC, TEC2010-21484Junta de Andalucía TIC-253

Experimental ratchet effect in superconducting films with periodic arrays of asymmetric potentials

A vortex lattice ratchet effect has been investigated in Nb films grown on arrays of nanometric Ni triangles, which induce periodic asymmetric pinning potentials. The vortex lattice motion yields a net dc-voltage when an ac driving current is applied to the sample and the vortex lattice moves through the field of asymmetric potentials. This ratchet effect is studied taking into account the array geometry, the temperature, the number of vortices per unit cell of the array and the applied ac currents.Comment: 15 pages, figures include

Lattice effects and current reversal in superconducting ratchets

Competition between the vortex lattice and a lattice of asymmetric artificial defects is shown to play a crucial role in ratchet experiments in superconducting films. We present a novel and collective mechanism for current reversal based on a reconfiguration of the vortex lattice. In contrast to previous models of vortex current reversal, the mechanism is based on the global response of the vortex lattice to external forces.Comment: 12 pages, 7 figure