An iterative ADI-FDTD with reduced splitting error

We present a new iterative alternating-direction-implicit finite-difference time-domain (ADI-FDTD) method. By recognizing the ADI-FDTD method as a special case of a more general iterative approach to solve the Crank-Nicolson (CN) FDTD scheme, the splitting error in ADI-FDTD can be reduced systematically. Numerical examples are used to illustrate the improved accuracy of this method.     

Experimental evaluation of capacity statistics for short VDSL loops

We assess the capacity potential of very short very-high data-rate digital subscriber line loops using full-binder channel measurements collected by France Telecom R&D. Key statistics are provided for both uncoordinated and vectored systems employing coordinated transmitters and coordinated receivers. The vectoring benefit is evaluated under the assumption of transmit precompensation for the elimination of self-far-end crosstalk, and echo cancellation of self-near-end crosstalk. The results provide useful bounds for developers and providers alike.     

Future increase in harmful algal blooms in the North Sea due to climate change.

In temperate seas such as the North Sea harmful (toxic) algal blooms will probably increase as a result of climate change. This conclusion was reached after investigating the projected effect of climate change for the year 2100 in Dutch coastal waters (4 degrees C temperature rise and increased water column stratification) on the growth rates of six harmful and two non-harmful phytoplankton species. Micro algae form the basis of the marine food chain. However, toxin-producing species may seriously disrupt the food web and lead to fish kills and human intoxication. Two species with estimated doubled growth rates in 2100, F. japonica and C. antiqua, entered Europe via ship's ballast water or shellfish imports. This stresses the need to legally regulate such invasion routes in order to prevent the import of novel species. Future toxic phytoplankton blooms may further devaluate ecosystem deliverables such as fish production or recreational use. This devaluation can be estimated by monetary value assessments that are needed in cost-benefit analyses for policy guidance. The lack of understanding of future climate, ecosystem functioning and its response to climate change calls for a scientific effort to improve our knowledge on present day coastal ecosystem functioning and its resilience.     

High-resolution electron microscopy of the twinning and intergrowth in Ca4Al6SO16 and Ca3SrAl6SO16

The microstructures of unhydrated calcium aluminosulphate Ca₄Al₆SO₁₆ and Ca₃SrAl₆SO₁₆ have been studied by high-resolution electron microscopy (HREM). The results showed that twinning and twinned slabs could be introduced taking the [1 1 2] direction as the twin axis so that it seems to be coincident with the law of twinning formed in body-centred cubic structures. A previously reported superlattice with a repeat period twice that of the fundamental structure along the 〈1 1 0〉 direction has also been found in both matrix and twin variants. The close intergrowth of Ca₃SrAl₆SO₁₆ and another phase, possibly Sr₃Al₂O₆ existing as an inclusion between these two twin variants, was determined and clearly revealed by electron diffraction and HREM images. The coherent interphase boundaries and orientation relationship between them can also be deduced.     

Influence of inhibitor addition on the corrosion protection performance of sol–gel coatings on AA2024

Sol–gel films are actively investigated during the last decade as possible candidates for environmentally friendly pre-treatments. However, the important drawback in this case is the lack of active corrosion protection and self-healing ability.     

Addition of pectolytic enzymes: an enological practice which improves the chromaticity and stability of red wines

Summary The effect of the addition of four commercial pectolytic preparations on the visual characteristics (colour and turbidity) of red wines has been evaluated. The effect of both clarifying and colour extracting enzymes and the effect of different doses used, were evaluated and compared. All the red wines treated enzymatically, independent of the type of enzyme and dose, present chromatic characteristics which can be considered better than those of the control wines. Also, those wines treated with enzymes had greater stability during 2 years storage in bottles, in particular the turbidity was better than untreated wines.