Abstract. Electrodynamics for self-interacting scalar fields in spatially flat FriedmannRobertson-Walker space-times is studied. The corresponding one-loop field equation for the expectation value of the complex scalar field in the conformal vacuum is derived. For exponentially expanding universes, the equations for the Bogoliubov coefficients describing the coupling of the scalar field to grav...

In addition to the mean meridional Hadley circulation, there also exist zonal overturning circulations that contribute to the meteorology and climatology of the tropics. Together, these overturning circulations are commonly referred to as the Walker circulation. In this section, we first explore the history and basic structure of the Walker circulation. Later, we reintroduce the shallow water e...

John Walker Barber-Lomax, always known to family and friends alike as Jack, and to colleagues as B-L, died on 13 April. He was born on 4 December 1914, near Bolton, Lancashire. After Charterhouse and Caius College, Cambridge, he proceeded to St Thomas' Hospital for a medical training but changed course and went up to the Liverpool veterinary school where he took the Golding prize in veterinary ...

Generational theory has much to offer the home economics profession. This article explains sociocultural generational theory, traces the evolution of home economics informed by generational theory, and considers the implications of generational theory as a mechanism to “future proof” the home economics profession. In particular, insights into the unique traits, strengths, and abilities for the ...

One major challenge in nanotechnology is to transport a nano-scale object from one location to another on a nano-structure. Molecular walkers are nano-machines designed for this task they are structures that can attach and move on some substrate. There have been several preliminary experiments for DNA walkers. However, none of these walker designs are “programmable”. These walkers either requir...

As the world’s most populous country, with more than 16 million births every year, China has emerged as a large importer of baby formula. China’s relaxation of the one-child policy, which was announced in 2015, is expected to increase the number of births significantly and therefore increase the demand for Chinese and imported baby formula. While information on parent preferences for baby formu...

Motivated by a biased diffusion of molecular motors with the bias dependent on the state of the substrate, we investigate a random walk on a one-dimensional lattice that contains weak links (called "bridges") which are affected by the walker. Namely, a bridge is destroyed with probability when p the walker crosses it; the walker is not allowed to cross it again and this leads to a directed moti...

Paying off the mortgage, once a widespread rite of passage for homeowners approaching retirement, has become less common in recent years. Concerns are mounting that the increased prevalence of housing debt among older homeowners could compromise financial security in retirement by expanding housing affordability problems, crimping essential nonhousing spending, increasing vulnerability to home ...