Comments on ‘A model of diffusion-induced grain boundary migration’ by T. K. Chaki

Abstract

Chaki (1988) has recently proposed a model for diffusion-induced grain boundary migration (DIGM). In his Letter he concluded that the interface energy of a grain boundary and the free energy of mixing are responsible for DIGM and, from the equations he derived, it was claimed that they can explain many DIGM experimental results. However, on examining his model closely there appear to be some fundamental difficulties. The following are comments on his Letter:

(1) In Chaki's calculation of ΔG_s he assumed that, after interface 1 had moved a distance δx, the radius of curvature of this interface increased from R to R + δx, which gives a surface energy drop of 2γV_m δx/R². However from many DIGM observations (for example Balluffi and Cahn (1981)) the curvature of a migrating boundary is increased rather then decreased, that is, the surface free- energy term actually prevents a grain boundary from migrating rather than helping it!

(2) Chaki considered ΔG_cryst during the migration of interface 2. It is also necessary to consider AGcrys, during the migration of interface 1, since within the migration distance δx the structure is changed from a crystalline structure to a grain boundary core structure. ΔG_m should also be considered during the migration of interface 2 since the concentration of the area swept by interface 2 will not be the same as that of a grain boundary core.     

Alloying effects on sulphur embrittlement of the γ-γ′ interface of nickel-based single-crystal superalloys

Fully first-principles calculations have been performed to investigate the alloying effect on the sulphur embrittlement of the n - n ' interface of nickel-based single-crystal superalloys. The shear and cohesive strengths of the inter-face are calculated in terms of Mayer bond orders (BOs), and the ratio R BO of shear strength over cohesive strength is analysed as a function of alloying element substitution. The interface characteristics are also studied using the electron charge-density distribution. It is found that the interplay between shear and cohesive strengths has a significant influence on the interfacial embrittlement. Using the phenomenological theory of fracture as well as the calculated ratio R BO, we propose a new mechanism responsible for relieving sulphur embrittlement of the n - n ' interface through alloying substitution.     

The impact of auditory continual feedback on take-overs in Level 3 automated vehicles

ObjectiveTo implement auditory continual feedback into the interface design of a Level 3 automated vehicle and to test whether gaze behavior and reaction times of drivers improved in take-over situations.BackgroundWhen required to assume manual control in take-over situations, drivers of Level 3 automated vehicles are less likely than conventional drivers to spot potential hazards, and their reaction time is longer. Therefore, it is crucial that the interface of Level 3 automated vehicles will be designed to improve drivers’ performance in take-over situations.MethodIn two experiments, participants drove a simulated route in a Level 3 automated vehicle for 35 min with one imminent take-over event. Participants’ gaze behavior and performance in an imminent take-over event were monitored under one of three auditory interface designs: (1) Continual feedback. A system that provides verbal driving-related feedback; (2) Persistent feedback. A system that provides verbal driving-related feedback and a persistent beep; and (3) Chatter feedback. A system that provides verbal non-driving-related feedback. Also, there was a control group without feedback.ResultsUnder all three auditory feedback designs, the number of drivers' on-road glances increased compared to no feedback, but none of the designs shortened reaction time to the imminent event.ConclusionIncreasing the number of on-road glances during automated driving does not necessarily improve drivers’ attention to the road and their reaction times during take-overs.ApplicationPossible implications for the effectiveness of auditory continual feedback should be considered when designing interfaces for Level 3 automated vehicles.     

An extended application ‘Brain Q’ processing EEG and MEG data of finger stimulation extended from ‘Zeffiro’ based on machine learning and signal processing

GoalTo apply signal processing and machine learning skills and knowledge in processing the EEG and MEG signal and further localize and evaluate the source of the finger stimulation.MethodsCognitive control is usually applied in information processing and behavioral response. In the preprocessing, baseline correction is implemented to analyze the pre-stimuli, combining ERP to mark the event related potential, studying the time-locked only behavior. Z-score transform, coherence and spec trum are calculated and analyzed in the functional connectivity analysis.In addition to the functional analysis, Bayes Optimizer evaluates the neuro imaging according to the hierarchical Bayes. The introduction of the application is described from both user and developer’s prospects. Results: Introduction of both user and developers aspects, on its modules from pre-processing, functional analysis and results visualization and evaluation is conducted with one specific clinical data case, including the correlation is higher especially on gamma band and the MVAR coherence on the whole source space depicting the relation between different regions, especially on somatosensory (compared by thalamus) when stimulated by finger activity, phase-lock property of the E/MEG signal and etc. Compared to a manual selection, the scaling parameter prediction can be improved with support vector machine (SVM). The evaluation results with Bayes Optimization, location prediction is superior in the somatosensory area and in the thalamus, the total reconstructed source space is larger, one of the realization of cognitive system comparing different kernels and classifiers. The SVM and discriminant classifier gives similar results evaluating the dipole localization and the parameter choice related as well to the shape parameter, noise level, hyperprior and etc.ConclusionApproaches of Brain Q are found to be suitable for pre-processing for the EEG and MEG data. The system is capable of functional analysis including coherence and spectral related computation. Machine learning techniques are conducted as well to analyze and evaluate the result of the dipole reconstruction and help to predict the better model parameters and the localization of the origin dipoles. A case on finger stimulation clinical data is conducted and the results of the analysis temporarily and spatially manifests its functionality for users and potential extensions for developers.     

A biphasic relational approach to the evolution of human consciousness

Background/objectiveHuman consciousness is arguably unique, and its features are hard to explain. Continuous and discrete accounts of consciousness are commonly viewed as incompatible, but both have limitations. Continuous accounts cannot readily account for what appears to be unique about human consciousness; discrete accounts have a hard time explaining how human consciousness could have evolved. The present position paper shows how both continuous and discontinuously elements can be combined.MethodA biphasic model is constructed by unifying complex systems theory, the evolution of symbolic reasoning as a relational extension of human cooperation, and evolutionary science. The application of this approach to modern views of consciousness is then explored.ResultsOur analysis suggests that human consciousness may be viewed as a discontinuous event, that emerged from continuous foundations. This biphasic account contains processes that can be targeted clinically. For example, developmentally delayed children with problems in consciousness may be helped by targeting the processes the present account suggests are important at different levels of complexity.ConclusionsThis biphasic relational approach fits with the evolutionary record and with data on human cognitive development. It may be useful in guiding clinical intervention.     

Upper limb proprioception and fine motor function in young pianists

BackgroundThis study investigated if intensive piano training may be associated with improved motor and somatosensory function. We systematically examined upper limb proprioception, which is known to play an essential role in skill movements, and motor function in young pianists.MethodForty-four typically developing children who either regularly played piano for more than six years (N = 16) or had no experience playing musical instruments (N = 28) participated. Elbow and wrist joint proprioceptive acuity was assessed using a manipulandum. The wrist/elbow was passively flexed to a target with participants actively trying to match the just experienced target position. Motor function was assessed using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC-2).ResultsFirst, children in the pianist group exhibited significantly lower position sense bias (systematic error) at both the elbow and wrist when compared to controls. Position sense precision (random error) was not different between groups. Second, the piano group exhibited enhanced fine motor function as shown by higher manual dexterity MABC-2 scores. Performance in other motor domains (aiming and catching or balance) was not improved in young pianists. Third, a lower position sense bias was correlated with a higher level of manual dexterity.ConclusionThis study documents that children who regularly play the piano have superior upper limb position sense acuity. Specifically, smaller position sense bias, i.e., less systematic error. Superior upper position sense acuity in young pianists is associated with higher fine motor functions.     

The Body-Machine Interface: A New Perspective on an Old Theme

ABSTRACT

Body-machine interfaces establish a way to interact with a variety of devices, allowing their users to extend the limits of their performance. Recent advances in this field, ranging from computer interfaces to bionic limbs, have had important consequences for people with movement disorders. The authors provide an overview of the basic concepts underlying the body-machine interface with special emphasis on their use for rehabilitation and for operating assistive devices. They outline the steps involved in building such an interface and highlight the critical role of body-machine interfaces in addressing theoretical issues in motor control as well as their utility in movement rehabilitation.     

Adoption of near-coincident-site lattice orientations by contacting monolayer rafts of metallic nanoparticles with different superlattice periodicities

A hexagonal raft of monodisperse alkane-thiol-stabilized Au nanoparticles has been self-assembled from solution on to an amorphous C substrate and then subsequently a second layer of monodisperse but differently sized gold nanoparticles deposited on top of the first. Detailed analysis of electron micrographs obtained from various regions of this bilayer revealed the presence of several distinct epitaxial interface structures. A simple near-coincident-site lattice model is used to rationalize the existence of the observed characteristic nanoparticle interface structures.     

Indice d’aptitude général et indice de compétence cognitive pour le WISC-IV : normes empiriques versus normes statistiques

IntroductionThe General Ability Index (GAI) was developed within the WISC-III to measure general cognitive ability. The GAI can be used as a substitute for the FSIQ. Recently, the Cognitive Proficiency Index (CPI) was developed. The GAI and CPI tables for the French WISC-IV were recently created using statistical approximation. However, it has been suggested that tables created with statistical approximation were less proficient than tables created using samples.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to compare GAI and CPI normative tables of the French WISC-IV which use a statistical approximation procedure, to tables based on a sample.MethodTo explore the validity of the GAI and ICC scores, we studied 182 children aged from 8 to 12-years-old.ResultsCorrelations between both types of tables were 0,997 for GAI and 0,999 for CPI, and the absolute mean difference was 5.38 points and 2.24, respectively. For the children presenting a GAI_S lower than 89, GAI_E suggested that it is likely that their scores are lower about 8-10 points than that indicated by GAI_S.ConclusionResults of this study support the use of GAI and CPI to provide different views of children's cognitive abilities.     

The Possibility of Religion in a Scientific and Secular Culture

Abstract

In this article religion is defmed in terms of our concern for the fulfilment of our most fundamental natural desires, especially those that seem beyond all human power to fulfil, such as the achievement of death-transcending life or a complete and enduring community between free beings such as human persons are. A god is always seen as the source of power sufficient to achieve this in us. Our conceptions of our god and of human nature are therefore always linked. The arguments for the existence of a god in the history of European philosophy show this. From the cosmological arguments of pre-modern times, through arguments from design and anthropological arguments in the modern period, to a contemporary argument from interpersonal relationships, a deepening insight into human nature produces an ever more comprehensive conception of a god, one that is not incompatible with a scientific world-view, or the secular rejection of the supernatural in the name of human freedom.     

Beyond Therapy and Enhancement: The Alteration of Human Nature

With the rapid progress and considerable promise of nanobiotechnology/neurosciences there is the potential of transforming the very nature of human beings and of how humans can conceive of themselves as rational animals through technological innovations. The interface between humans and machines (neuro-digital interface), can potentially alter what it means to be human, i.e., the very idea of human nature and of normal functioning will be changed. In this paper, I argue that we are potentially on the verge of a paradigm shift in terms of the ends and goals of techno-science and its applications in the biomedical sciences. In particular, the development of brain-computer interfaces could reconceptualize the very notion of what it means to be human. Hence, we should not limit our reflections of applications in terms of therapy and enhancement but also include an examination of applications aiming at the alteration of human nature. To this end I will first delineate the potential paradigm shift and then map out four distinct clusters of concerns in relation to the brain-computer interface. Finally, I argue that our moral and philosophical reflections should follow a procedural model based on managed consensus due to our pluralistic context.

Parental involvement in competitive youth sport settings

ObjectivesBased on ecological systems theory [Bronfenbrenner, U. (2005). Making human beings human: Bioecological perspectives on human development. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage], the purpose of this study was to examine parents’ involvement in competitive youth sport settings.DesignData were collected through two distinct phases of fieldwork. Phase 1 involved longitudinal data collection with four families. Phase 2 involved observations of youth soccer settings.MethodData were collected from four families via individual interviews and audio-diaries and were supplemented through 120 h of observation. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using grounded theory methodology.ResultsParents’ verbal reactions to their children's sport performance behaviors were placed on a continuum moving from more supportive to more controlling comments. These comments were categorized as praise/encouragement, performance contingent feedback, instruction, striking a balance, negative comments, and derogatory comments. Parents experienced empathy in that they perceived sharing the emotions their children felt in sport, and these emotions appeared to change in relation to dynamic game and contextual circumstances. Parents also thought that they possessed knowledge and expertise of sport, which they perceived enabled them to make comments to their children.ConclusionA series of reciprocal and bi-directional relationships were central to parents’ involvement in competitive youth sport.     

Psychoanalysis and academia: Psychoanalysis at the crossroads between exact and human sciences

Abstract

It is proposed that the mental health crisis in “developed” societies is largely due to the fact that psychology is heavily based upon an exact science model academically, and upon a medical model clinically. Indeed, these models favor an apperception of mental pathologies as essential entities with a biological etiology, and this reification facilitates a process of nonimplication of the sufferer as concerns his condition. The progress in brain sciences holds the promise of acknowledging psychology as an autonomous discipline, properly describing mental logics, which are constrained, but not determined, by brain characteristics; moreover, mental logical operations mandatorily need content from the contingent history of the subject's life to become instantiated. Psychology, then, is at the interface between an exact science and a human science epistemology. Consequently, we need psychologists and clinicians in the field of mental health who can apply a particularized approach to mental distress, who can deal with the personal feeling of nonmastery, who can base their clinical thinking on the patient's story, and who thereby systematically stay away from any essentializing temptation, while simultaneously being aware that the theoretical framework they operate from is embedded in a continuous scientific dialogue. Psychoanalysis is at that crossroads.     

The effects of pain and a secondary task on postural sway during standing

BackgroundPain impairs available cognitive resources and somatosensory information, but its effects on postural control during standing are inconclusive. The aim of this study was to investigate whether postural sway is affected by the presence of pain and a secondary task during standing.MethodsSixteen healthy subjects stood as quiet as possible at a tandem stance for 30s on a force platform at different conditions regarding the presence of pain and a secondary task. Subjects received painful stimulations on the right upper arm or lower leg according to a relative pain threshold [pain 7 out 10 on a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) - 0 representing “no pain” and 10 “worst pain imaginable”] using a computer pressurized cuff. The secondary task consisted of pointing to a target using a head-mounted laser-pointer as visual feedback. Center of Pressure (COP) sway area, velocity, mean frequency and sample entropy were calculated from force platform measures.FindingsCompared to no painful condition, pain intensity (leg: VAS = 7; arm VAS = 7.4) increased following cuff pressure conditions (P < .01). Pain at the leg decreased COP area (P < .05), increased COP velocity (P < .05), mean frequency (P < .05) and sample entropy (P < .05) compared with baseline condition regardless the completion of the secondary task. During condition with pain at the leg, completion of the secondary task reduced COP velocity (P < .001) compared with condition without secondary task.InterpretationPain in the arm did not affect postural sway. Rather, postural adaptations seem dependent on the location of pain as pain in the lower leg affected postural sway. The completion of a secondary task affected postural sway measurements and reduced the effect of leg pain on postural sway. Future treatment interventions could benefit from dual-task paradigm during balance training aiming to improve postural control in patients suffering from chronic pain.     

Oedipus and Cain: Brothers in arms

Abstract

It is widely known that Freud gives Oedipus a central place in both his psychoanalytic theory and praxis. Freud introduces the Oedipus myth as the crucial key for understanding the tragedy of human life. One of the most problematic issues innate to the human condition is aggression. This paper argues: (1) that Freud's insights into human aggression can at the very least be viewed as one-sided and problematic; and (2) that the heuristic potential of the Oedipus myth is, correspondingly, limited. It considers how the Hungarian psychiatrist and analyst, Lipót Szondi, tries to bridge this gap using the myth of Cain and Abel. The aim of this paper is to explore how Szondi's interpretation of this myth offers a much more subtle approach to human aggression. Szondi's alternative and distinctive look at aggressive phenomena offers an exciting and fruitful addition to Freud's interpretation as exclusively referring to sadism and/or the death instinct. This contribution wants to highlight Szondi's amendment to Freud's Oedipus and aims to show that psychoanalysis can benefit from taking into account the mythical figures of Cain and Abel.     

Post,Oblique, Human

Abstract

Taking its cue from the oblique of Elaine L. Graham's ‘post/human’, this essay examines the difficult relationship between humanism and its ‘post’. If, as Graham points out, the present moment is one in which anthropocentrism is both in crisis and deferred to as ‘common sense’, what is to be done? Perhaps the answer lies in strategies for ‘obliquing’ humanist discourse, working through its contradictions in order to establish the ‘post/human’ as a figure that forever disrupts humanism.     

Philosophical foundations of humanistic psychology

Abstract

From the perspective of the history of Western thought, humanism is a philosophy based on the belief that the human is irreducible to other forms of life, whether material or Divine. To the extent that humanistic psychology has its roots in the humanist tradition, it shares this conviction that the human cannot be understood except in its own terms. This report will review the philosophical precedents for this perspective on the nature of human functioning, and will then consider whether or not the fruits of humanistic‐psychological labor over the last 35 years have borne out the promises of its approach.     

Japanese manufacturing techniques

Abstract

Japanese human resource management, particularly as manifested in Japanese manufacturing companies, has undoubtedly been seen as highly successful. This paper analyses how and why it has developed into such a commanding position. It looks at the cultural contexts of new means of production and analyses factors contributing to its success using examples and case studies drawn particularly from Japanese motor manufacturing. Japanese human resource management policies and techniques as well as production techniques have been emulated by many non-Japanese manufacturers, although there is great selectivity in the adaptation of techniques. It is also difficult for researchers to attribute direct causal influence.

Nevertheless, the influence continues and this paper goes on to examine the impact upon workers and the design of work these techniques are having. Empirical evidence is examined.

The paper ends with a plea for work and organizational psychology to complement its traditional natural science paradigm and neo-positivist approach with a multiperspective, ethnographic, and qualitative methodology.     

Movement of Pt markers in MgO during a solid-state reaction

The effectiveness of Pt in marking the initial location of heterophase boundaries between two reactants in a thin-film solid-state reaction is discussed. The Pt markers were produced by dewetting a continuous Pt film at elevated temperatures, thus forming an array of small isolated particles. These particles can then serve as fine-scale markers for tracking the motion of interfaces. The thin-film diffusion couples with Pt markers were used, in this study, to investigate the effect of an applied electric field on a spinel-forming reaction. The reacted diffusion couples with Pt markers were analysed using both transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Analysis of the diffusion couples showed that the Pt markers could be affected by, or themselves affect, the reaction process. The interface between the Pt marker and surrounding oxide matrix plays an important role in the reliability of Pt as an effective marker.     

Interactions between interfacial dislocations and γ/γ′ interface during high temperature – low stress creep in nickel-based single crystal superalloy

ABSTRACT

The interaction between interfacial dislocations and γ/γ′ interface is critical to the high temperature creep properties of single crystal superalloys. However, only a few studies have paid attention to the detailed structure such as local interfacial morphologies and the elemental distribution around interfacial dislocations. In this paper, the interfacial protrusions and related dislocations in a single crystal superalloy after creep at high temperature – low stress have been investigated in detail. It is found that the morphology and size of the interfacial protrusions remain almost the same during the early and middle stages of high temperature creep, which indicates a local equilibrium at the interfacial protrusions. Steps at different height are formed at the γ/γ′ interface at the initial stage of high temperature creep since dislocations could move along the γ/γ′ interface, which indicates that dislocation motion at different creep stage may affect the morphology of γ/γ′ interface.