Compilation of detection sensitivities in thermal-neutron activation

Detection sensitivities of the chemical elements following thermal-neutron activation have been compiled from the available experimental cross sections and nuclear properties and presented in a concise and usable form. The report also includes the equations and nuclear parameters used in the calculations

Portable, high intensity isotopic neutron source provides increased experimental accuracy

Small portable, high intensity isotopic neutron source combines twelve curium-americium beryllium sources. This high intensity of neutrons, with a flux which slowly decreases at a known rate, provides for increased experimental accuracy

‘From problem to prototype’ – using a service design course to bridge gaps within a university

For several years now the SLU University Library in Sweden has worked actively with user-centred research and design for the purpose of library development. One of the goals in our current strategy is that by 2025 the library ‘should become a hub for the university’s work with user-centred methods and will be characterised by an approach that centres the user perspective.’ To work towards this goal, the library has developed a service design course, aimed at all staff at the university. (Further below I will explain why we chose to call this endeavour a ‘service design course’ rather than a ‘UX course’.) The course has so far been offered and run during two semesters, in the spring and autumn of 2022, with 18 participants having completed the course. The aim was to raise awareness and the general skill level within the subject area, as well as bringing together colleagues from different parts of the university. Participants have come from the library, the communications department and student services, as well as administrative staff at the academic faculties

Atomic Data for Stellar Astrophysics: from the UV to the IR

The study of stars and stellar evolution relies heavily on the analysis of stellar spectra. The need for atomic line data from the ultraviolet (UV) to the infrared (lR) regions is greater now than ever. In the past twenty years, the time since the launch of the Hubble Space Telescope, great progress has been made in acquiring atomic data for UV transitions. The optical wavelength region, now expanded by progress in detector technology, continues to provide motivation for new atomic data. In addition, investments in new instrumentation for ground-based and space observatories has lead to the availability of high-quality spectra at IR wavelengths, where the need for atomic data is most critical. In this review, examples are provided of the progress made in generating atomic data for stellar studies, with a look to the future for addressing the accuracy and completeness of atomic data for anticipated needs