We demonstrate reliable manipulation of the magnetization dynamics of a precessing nanomagnet by precisely controlling the spin transfer torque on the subnanosecond time scale. Using a simple pulse shaping scheme consisting of two ultrafast spin torque pulses with variable amplitudes and delay, we demonstrate coherent control over the precessional orbits and the ability to tune the switching pr...

Cells of the bacterium Escherichia coli were tethered and spun in a high-frequency rotating electric field at a series of discrete field strengths. This was done first at low field strengths, then at field strengths generating speeds high enough to disrupt motor function, and finally at low field strengths. Comparison of the initial and final speed versus applied-torque plots yielded relative m...

Magnetorheological (MR) actuators provide controlled torque through control of an applied magnetic field. Therefore knowledge of the relationship between the applied current and output torque is required. This paper presents a new nonlinear modeling of MR actuators considering magnetic hysteresis to determine the torque-current nonlinear relationship. Equations for transmitted torque are derive...

Mechanical manipulations of single biological molecules have revealed highly dynamic and mechanical processes at the molecular level. Recent developments have permitted examination of the impact of torque on these processes and visualization of detailed molecular motions, enabling studies of increasingly complex systems. Here we highlight some recent important discoveries.

Klass, M., N. Guissard, and J. Duchateau. Limiting mechanisms of force production after repetitive dynamic contractions in human triceps surae. J Appl Physiol 96: 1516–1521, 2004. First published November 7, 2003; 10.1152/japplphysiol.01049.2003.—The influence of repetitive dynamic fatiguing contractions on the neuromuscular characteristics of the human triceps surae was investigated in 10 subj...

The purpose of this study was to record the discharge characteristics of tibialis anterior motor units over a range of target forces and to import these data, along with previously reported observations, into a computational model to compare experimental and simulated measures of torque variability during isometric contractions with the dorsiflexor muscles. The discharge characteristics of 44 m...

The goal of this work was to evaluate tissue-device interactions due to implantation of a mechanically operated drug delivery system onto the posterior sclera. Two test devices were designed and fabricated to model elements of the drug delivery device-one containing a free-spinning ball bearing and the other encasing two articulating gears. Openings in the base of test devices modeled ports for...