Scaling of the linear response in simple aging systems without disorder

Logarithmic correction to scaling in domain-wall dynamics at Kosterlitz-Thouless phase transitions

With Monte Carlo simulations, we investigate the relaxation dynamics of domain walls at the Kosterlitz-Thouless phase transition, taking the two-dimensional XY model as an example. The dynamic scaling behavior is carefully analyzed, and a domain-wall roughening process is observed. Two-time correlation functions are calculated and aging phenomena are investigated. Inside the domain interface, a strong logarithmic correction to scaling is detected.

Nonequilibrium critical dynamics with domain wall and surface

With Monte Carlo simulations, we investigate the relaxation dynamics with a domain wall for magnetic systems at the critical temperature. The dynamic scaling behavior is carefully analyzed, and a dynamic roughening process is observed. For comparison, similar analysis is applied to the relaxation dynamics with a free or disordered surface.

Short-time critical dynamics and aging phenomena in the two-dimensional XY model

With Monte Carlo methods, we simulate dynamic relaxation processes of the two-dimensional XY model at the Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless phase transition temperature and below, starting from both ordered and disordered initial states. The two-time correlation function A(t',t) is measured, and aging phenomena are investigated. The power-law correction in the spatial correlation length xi(t) for relaxation with an ordered initial state and the logarithmic correction for relaxation with a disordered initial state are carefully analyzed. The scaling functions of A(t',t) are then extracted.

Scaling and universality in the aging kinetics of the two-dimensional clock model

We study numerically the aging dynamics of the two-dimensional p -state clock model after a quench from an infinite temperature to the ferromagnetic phase or to the Kosterlitz-Thouless phase. The system exhibits the general scaling behavior characteristic of nondisordered coarsening systems. For quenches to the ferromagnetic phase, the value of the dynamical exponents suggests that the model belongs to the Ising-type universality class. Specifically, for the integrated response function chi(t,s) approximately or = s(-a)chif(t/s), we find a(chi) consistent with the value a(chi)=0.28 found in the two-dimensional Ising model.

Correction to scaling in the response function of the two-dimensional kinetic Ising model

The aging part Rag(t,s) of the impulsive response function of the two-dimensional ferromagnetic Ising model, quenched below the critical point, is studied numerically employing an algorithm without the imposition of the external field. We find that the simple scaling form Rag(t,s)=s-(1+a)f(t/s), which is usually believed to hold in the aging regime, is not obeyed. We analyze the data assuming the existence of a correction to scaling. We find a=0.273+/-0.006, in agreement with previous numerical results obtained from the zero field cooled magnetization. We investigate in detail also the scaling function f(t/s) and we compare the results with the predictions of analytical theories. We make an ansatz for the correction to scaling, deriving an analytical expression for Rag(t,s). This gives a satisfactory qualitative agreement with the numerical data for Rag(t,s) and for the integrated response functions. With the analytical model we explore the overall behavior, extrapolating beyond the time regime accessible with the simulations. We explain why the data for the zero field cooled susceptibility are not too sensitive to the existence of the correction to scaling in Rag(t,s), making this quantity the most convenient for the study of the asymptotic scaling properties.

Comment on "Scaling of the linear response in simple aging systems without disorder"

We have repeated the simulations of Henkel, Paessens, and Pleimling (HPP) [Phys. Rev. E 69, 056109 (2004)] for the field-cooled susceptibility chi(FC)(t) - chi0 approximately t(-A) in the quench of ferromagnetic systems to and below T(C). We show that, contrary to the statement made by HPP, the exponent A coincides with the exponent a of the linear response function R(t,s) approximately s(-(1+a))f(R)(t/s). We point out what are the assumptions in the argument of HPP that lead them to the conclusion A < a.

Generic features of the fluctuation dissipation relation in coarsening systems

The integrated response function in phase-ordering systems with scalar, vector, conserved, and nonconserved order parameter is studied at various space dimensionalities. Assuming scaling of the aging contribution chi(ag) (t, t(w) )= tw (- a(chi) ) chi; (t/ t(w) ) we obtain, by numerical simulations and analytical arguments, the phenomenological formula describing the dimensionality dependence of a(chi) in all cases considered. The primary result is that a(chi) vanishes continuously as d approaches the lower critical dimensionality d(L). This implies that (i) the existence of a nontrivial fluctuation dissipation relation and (ii) the failure of the connection between statics and dynamics are generic features of phase ordering at d(L).

Limits and regulations for mycotoxins in food and feed

Mycotoxins are natural contaminants whose presence in food- and feedstuffs cannot be completely avoided. Since several mycotoxins have been associated with and implicated in human and animal diseases there is a need to establish maximum levels, guidelines or action levels for them in some kinds of commodities. International and government authorities in many countries have been investing in mycotoxins research and initiating administrative actions for elaboration of legislation and implementing regulatory measures for the control of mycotoxins. Codex Alimentarius Commission is established international legislation on food and feed. In European Union specific limits and regulations for mycotoxins and other contaminants are constructed under the general Codex standards and based on proposal from European Commission. The legal basis for European Commission became available with the framework Council Regulation (EEC) No 315/93. In this paper, legislation regarding maximum levels for certain mycotoxins in food- and feedstuffs in European Community and other countries were reviewed and discussed.