Phase transition into the superconducting mixed state and the de Haas-van Alphen effect
Abstract The Landau expansion for the free energy of the superconducting mixed state near the upper critical field in powers of the sauare modulus of the order parameter averaged over an Abrikosov lattice is derived. The analytical calculations have been carried out in the framework of the Gor'kov formalism for a 3-dimensional isotropic BCS model beyond the limits of the quasiclassical approximation, that is, with Landau auantization of the auasiparticle energy levels taken into consideration. The derivation is performed at Iow temperature for finite but high enough crystal purity. The effect of Pauli paramagnetic terms is taken into account. The quantum oscillations of the critical temperature, the order parameter's amplitude and the magnetization (de Haas-van Alphen effect) in the mixed state are found. The limitation for the validity of a mean field approach due to critical fluctuations (Ginzburg criterion) for the phase transition under consideration is established.
Ginzburg–Landau functional for type-II superconductors with Pauli paramagnetic effect
Effects of Pauli paramagnetism on type-II superconductivity are examined through a derivation of a Ginzburg–Landau (GL) functional by including the field-induced pair-breaking effects through the spin and orbital on an equal footing. On the basis of the resultant GL functional we discuss the corresponding high-field vortex phase diagram at the level of mean field approximation. Special attention is paid to the mutuality of characteristic temperatures, i.e., the temperatures: (1) at which the vortex state is described in terms of higher Landau levels; (2) at which a vortex state modulated along the field direction (a Fulde–Ferrell–Larkin–Ovchinnikov-like state) becomes stable; and (3) at which a superconducting transition becomes nearly discontinuous.
Wood Microbiology: Decay and Its Prevention
Introductory text on the principles of decay and discoloration processes in wood, with emphasis on the major fungal damages which may develop during the growth, storage, and use of wood. The characteristics, detection, effects, and control of microbial attacks are stressed. Provides a synthesis of the current literature on wood microbiology, a rapidly expanding field of study. (Abstractor's note: This is an important resource for conservation researchers studying the decay of wood in art and architecture.) The following is a list of chapter headings: 1) Introduction to wood microbiology; 2) Wood deterioration agents; 3) Characteristics and classification of fungi and bacteria; 4) Factors affecting the growth and survival of fungi in wood (fungal ecology); 5) Fungal metabolism in relation to wood decay; 6) The decay setting: some structural, chemical, and moisture features of wood in relation to decay development; 7) General features, recognition, and anatomical aspects of wood decay; 8) Chemical changes in wood caused by decay fungi; 9) Ultrastructural features of wood decay; 10) Changes caused by decay fungi in the strength and physical properties of wood; 11) Colonization and microbial interactions in wood decay; 12) Decays originating in the stems of living trees; 13) Biodeterioration of stored wood and its control; 14) Wood stains and discolorations; 15) Decay problems associated with some major uses of wood products; 16) Detection of internal decay; 17) Paint mildew and related degradative problems; 18) Natural decay resistance (wood durability); 19) Chemical protection of wood (wood preservation); and 20) Some trends in wood microbiology research and a new emphasis (biotechnology). -- AATA