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Kevin Kendall

Publications and source records attributed to Kevin Kendall.

3 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2004

Atomistic studies of surface adhesions using molecular-dynamics simulations.

The existing theoretical descriptions of continuum surface adhesions, such as the JKR (Johnson-Kendall-Roberts) model, have been very useful for the interpretation of particle contacts of sizes down to micrometre length-scales. However, the continuum model is expected to fail at atomic length-scales, where discrete atomistic interactions become significant. The crossover length-scales at which the macroscopic phenomena begin to manifest themselves, and how they occur, are equally baffling and remain poorly understood. This paper explores the issue of atomistic surface contacts between two ionic bodies made of similar materials, such as MgO and NaCl, using molecular dynamics. A range of surface phenomenological behaviour has been identified, from simple fracture to plastic dislocation and neck formation, which are not predicted in continuum models. In addition, the influences of body structure with respect to surface contacts will also be discussed briefly.

Computer Simulation↗
PubMed2004

The zoonotic potential of rotavirus.

Rotaviruses are generally species-specific, but cross-species transmission is possible, as has been demonstrated experimentally. Several case studies have indicated infection of humans by animal rotaviruses. Comparison of genetic sequences of human and animal rotaviruses often reveals close identity. Surveillance of circulating rotaviruses in the human population has revealed the presence of several uncommon genotypes. Many of these have been found in domestic animals, and it is possible that they arose in the human population through zoonotic transmission. The low incidence of uncommon strains would suggest that such transmission, or at least the establishment of an animal rotavirus or a human/animal reassortant virus in the human population, does not happen with any great frequency. However, many millions of people will be exposed year on year to animal rotaviruses. This happens within farming communities, and potentially to visitors to the countryside. There may be some measure of environmental contamination through livestock excrement. This exposure may not result in high levels of infection, but some infection could occur. There may be a continual input of rotavirus strains or sequences into the human population from the animal population albeit at a very low level.

Animals↗