cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evidence of hopping conduction among localized states in vanadate—phosphate (V2O5KPO3) glasses

Measurements of the conductivity, the thermoelectric power, and the optical absorption coefficient have been made on V2O5KPO3 glasses. The absorption coefficient K (measured at 300°K) vs. wavelength λ was found to be exponential from hv = 2.4 to 3.2 eV. The infrared absorption data show some structure from hv = 0.03 to 0.25 eV. An activation energy of 0.196 eV was deduced from the conductivity curve in the temperature range from 210 to 400°K. The thermoelectric power varies linearly with temperature over the range of temperature studied (i.e., between 360 and 300°C). Electron mobility was calculated from the conductivity and the thermoelectric power data, and was found to vary between 2 × 10−5 and 2 × 10−4 cm2/Vs. A mobility activation energy of 0.372 eV was found from this study. The phonon frequency vp calculated, assuming hopping process, is found to be 2.28 × 1012 Hz. The results analyzed lead to the evidence of a “pseudogap” band model as postulated by Mott [1]. An V2O5KPO3-Glasern wurden Messungen der Leitfahigkeit, der Thermospannung und des optischen Absorptionskoeffizienten durchgefuhrt. Der Absorptionskoeffizient K (gemessen bei 300°K) nimmt von hv = 2,4 bis 3,2 eV exponentiell mit der Wellenlange λ zu. Die Infrarotabsorptionsdaten zeigen einige Strukturen von hv = 0,03 bis 0,25 eV. Aus der Leitfahigkeitskurve im Temperaturbereich von 210 bis 400°K wurde eine Aktivierungsenergie von 0,196 eV bestimmt. Die Thermospannung variiert linear mit der Temperatur im untersuchten Temperaturbereich (d. h. zwischen 360 und 300°C). Aus den Leitfahigkeits- und Thermospannungswerten wurde eine Elektronenbeweglichkeit berechnet und gefunden, das sie zwischen 2 × 10−5 und 2 × 10−4 cm2/Vs variiert. Aus dieser Untersuchung wurde eine Aktivierungsenergie der Beweglichkeit von 0,372 eV gefunden. Die berechnete Phononfrequenz vp aus der Annahme eines Hoppingsmechanismus wurde zu 2,28 × 1012 Hz bestimmt. Die analysierten Ergebnisse fuhren zu der Annahme eines „Pseudogap” -Bandmodells wie es von Mott [1] postuliert wurde.
Adiabatic energization in the ring current and its relation to other source and loss terms

[1] The influence of adiabatic energization and deenergization effects, caused by particle drift in radial distance, on ring current growth rates and loss lifetimes is investigated. Growth and loss rates from simulation results of four storms (5 June 1991, 15 May 1997, 19 October 1998, and 25 September 1998) are examined and compared against the y component of the solar wind electric field (Ey,sw). Energy change rates with and without the inclusion of adiabatic energy changes are considered to isolate the influence of this mechanism in governing changes of ring current strength. It is found that the influence of adiabatic drift effects on the energy change rates is very large when energization and deenergization are considered separately as gain and loss mechanisms, often about an order of magnitude larger than all other source or loss terms combined. This is true not only during storm times, when the open drift path configuration of the hot ions dominates the physics of the ring current, but also during quiet times, when the small oscillation in L of the closed trajectories creates a large source and loss of energy each drift orbit. However, the net energy change from adiabatic drift is often smaller than other source and loss processes, especially during quiet times. Energization from adiabatic drift dominates ring current growth only during portions of the main phase of storms. Furthermore, the net-adiabatic energization is often positive, because some particles are lost in the inner magnetosphere before they can adiabatically deenergize. It is shown that the inclusion of only this net-adiabatic drift effect in the total source rate or loss lifetime (depending on the sign of the net-adiabatic energization) best matches the observed source and loss values from empirical Dst predictor methods (that is, for consistency, these values should be compared between the calculation methods). While adiabatic deenergization dominates the loss timescales for all Ey,sw values, there is a characteristic decrease in the loss lifetime for higher Ey,sw, seen computationally and observationally. It is shown that these shorter loss lifetimes at higher Ey,sw are caused primarily by enhanced dayside flow out. The simulation results show that, on average, flow out is a larger energy loss term than charge exchange (the next biggest loss term for the ring current) for all Ey,sw values.
A modified schlieren technique for micro flow visualization

A modified schlieren technique has been developed for studies of supersonic flow through a micronozzle setup. After taking the ratio between reference and schlieren images, the noise has been reduced and the contrast in the image has been improved. The shock wave pattern in the micronozzle has been clearly identified at the total pressure of 41.4 kPa.
A derivation of the equations for transport of liquid and heat in three dimensions in a fractured porous medium

Abstract Governing equations can be derived for transient, three-dimensional transport of heat and mass in compressible, liquid saturated fractured porous media. Recently developed mathematical techniques can be used which relate local space averages of derivatives of medium properties to the derivatives of those averages. Using these techniques, well established thermomechanical transport equations which apply at microscopic points may be transformed into equations in macroscopic variables; i.e. in variables which pertain to the scale of observation. In the absence of chemical reactions, transfer between source entities and the medium may be taken care of in a consistent, physically realistic way, such that macroscopic source terms arise naturally in the course of the macroscopization procedures.
Elevated Serum Levels of IGF-1 Are Sufficient to Establish Normal Body Size and Skeletal Properties Even in the Absence of Tissue IGF-1

Use of recombinant insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) as a treatment for primary IGF-1 deficiency in children has become increasingly common. When untreated, primary IGF-1 deficiency may lead to a range of metabolic disorders, including lipid abnormalities, insulin resistance, and decreased bone density. To date, results of this therapy are considered encouraging; however, our understanding of the role played by IGF-1 during development remains limited. Studies on long-term treatment with recombinant IGF-1 in both children and animals are few. Here, we used two novel transgenic mouse strains to test the long-term effects of elevated circulating IGF-1 on body size and skeletal development. Overexpression of the rat igf1 transgene in livers of mice with otherwise normal IGF-1 expression (HIT mice) resulted in approximately threefold increases in serum IGF-1 levels throughout growth, as well as greater body mass and enhanced skeletal size, architecture, and mechanical properties. When the igf1 transgene was overexpressed in livers of igf1 null mice (KO-HIT), the comparably elevated serum IGF-1 failed to overcome growth and skeletal deficiencies during neonatal and early postnatal growth. However, between 4 and 16 weeks of age, increased serum IGF-1 fully compensated for the absence of locally produced IGF-1 because body weights and lengths of KO-HIT mice became comparable with controls. Furthermore, micro-computed tomography (µCT) analysis revealed that early deficits in skeletal structure of KO-HIT mice were restored to control levels by adulthood. Our data indicate that in the absence of tissue igf1 gene expression, maintaining long-term elevations in serum IGF-1 is sufficient to establish normal body size, body composition, and both skeletal architecture and mechanical function. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Multiple functions of Osterix are required for bone growth and homeostasis in postnatal mice

The transcription factor Osterix (Osx) is required for osteoblast differentiation and bone formation during embryonic development, but it is not known whether Osx has an essential function in postnatal bone growth and in bone homeostasis. Conditional deletion of Osx at several time points postnatally revealed that Osx was essential for osteoblast differentiation and new bone formation in growing and adult bones. Additionally, inactivation of Osx in bones severely disrupted the maturation, morphology, and function of osteocytes. These findings identify Osx as having an essential role in the cell-specific genetic program of osteocytes. Interestingly, Osx inactivation also led to the massive accumulation of unresorbed calcified cartilage in a large area below the growth plate of endochondral bones. This specific area was also marked by an unanticipated almost complete lack of bone marrow cells and a marked decrease in the density and size of osteoclasts. This diminished density of osteoclasts could contribute to the lack of resorption of mineralized cartilage. In addition, we speculate that the abnormally accumulated, mainly naked cartilage represents an unfavorable substrate for osteoclasts. Our study identifies Osx as an essential multifunctional player in postnatal bone growth and homeostasis.
Particulate sol-gel route for microporous silica gels

Abstract The preparation of microporous silica gels from particulate as opposed to polymeric suspensions of silica using alkylsilicates as precursors is described. The pore structure of this silica gel is determined mainly by the size and the packing geometry of the silica particles. Fast hydrolysis, slow condensation and low solubility all contribute to a high supersaturation level and result in the formation of small particles. Particles formed under acidic conditions are smaller than those obtained under basic reaction conditions due to the slower condensation rate and lower solubility in acid. At the same pH, alkylsilicates having smaller alkyl groups react faster with water leading to smaller primary particles. During the sol to xerogel transformation process, the pH of the sol, together with the time of aging, play important roles in determining the pore structure of the final product.
XENON-LAMP-EXCITED FLUORIMETRY OF SEVERAL ANTHRACENE DERIVATIVES IN A SUPERSONIC JET.

A simple and highly sensitive supersonic jet fluorimeter using a xenon arc lamp is described. Well-resolved fluorescence spectra were obtained for anthracene, 9-methylanthracene, and 9-chloroanthracene. Simultaneous identification of three compounds out of the mixture of four anthracenes was successful.
Ocean mining: What does it mean for local governments?

Abstract Ocean mining is just beginning in the United States. What can local governments expect from a recent federal initiative to promote it? This article examines ocean mining and what factors will cause its growth in the US coastal zone. It also discusses the general impacts expected by local governments and suggests what is necessary to accommodate ocean mining within coastal localities.
Studies of polymer blends. I. Compatibility of poly(vinyl chloride) and poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate‐co‐sulfur dioxide)

Various methods of determining polymeric molecular compatibility were applied to blends of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) and poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate-co-sulfur dioxide) (E/VA/SO2). In one series, where the E/VA/SO2 had a mole composition of 72.7/18.5/8.8, true compatible blends were demonstrated by phase-contrast microscopy, torsion pendulum studies, and differential scanning calorimetry experiments for blends containing up to 40% E/VA/SO2. These blends exhibited a single Tg whose compositional variation was found to follow the Fox expression. Experimental densities were slightly greater than predicted on assuming volume additivity. This observation implies better packing and a negative heat of mixing and thus is in harmony with a negative free energy of mixing and the observed molecular compatibility.
A three-dimensional numerical model of a micro laminar flow fuel cell with a bridge-shaped microchannel cross-section

Abstract The operation of a laminar flow fuel cell (LFFC) involves complex interplay between various mass and electrochemical transport processes. Hence, to better design and more accurately predict performance, we developed a fully-coupled 3D numerical model that includes all the transport processes and electrochemical phenomena. Specifically, the model is based on the equations for the mass, momentum, species, and charge balances along with Butler–Volmer equations for electrode kinetics. The developed model was in excellent agreement with experimental data on a micro laminar flow fuel cell (μLFFC) with a bridge-shaped microchannel cross-section. Then, we used the model for a parametric study evaluating the influence of different operational and geometrical parameters (bridge aspect ratio, reactant flow rates, oxidant concentration) on the fuel cell performance (peak power density, fuel crossover, crossover current, power losses). The observed correlations were explained on the basis of mass and electrochemical transport phenomena, e.g., the behavior of the depletion zones at the fuel–oxidant and reactant–electrode interfaces. Based on these results, we recommend further design considerations for LFFCs. Although, the model was specifically developed for a particular μLFFC configuration, the computational model can be used to design and predict behavior of a wide variety of LFFC configurations.
Molecular mechanisms of aortic wall remodeling in response to hypertension

Abstract Objective: The molecular basis of vascular response to hypertension is largely unknown. Both cellular and extracellular components are critical. In the current study we tested the hypothesis that there is a balance between vascular cell proliferation and cell death during vessel remodeling in response to hypertension. Methods: A midthoracic aortic coarctation was created in rats to induce an elevation of blood pressure proximal to the coarctation. The time course was 1 and 3 days and 1, 2, and 4 weeks for the study of the proximal aorta. Ribonuclease protection assay and Western blot analysis were used to evaluate gene expression of growth and apoptosis-related cytokines with two sets of multiple probes, rCK-3 and rAPO-1. Cell proliferation was determined with BrdU (5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine) incorporation. Apoptosis was examined with TUNEL (transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling). Morphometry was performed on histologic sections. Results: Coarctation produced hypertension in the proximal aorta, 118 ± 9 mm Hg versus 94 ± 6 mm Hg in controls ( P P Bcl-xS and Fas ligand, known as proapoptotic factors, were both reduced after coarctation ( P P Conclusion: Cell proliferation was stimulated at 3 days, and apoptosis was halted until 4 weeks. These changes were associated with upregulation of TGF-β and downregulation of Bcl-xS and Fas ligand gene expression. These findings suggest that a coordinated regulation of cell proliferation and cell death contributes to arterial remodeling in response to acute sustained elevation of blood pressure. Cell proliferation precedes apoptosis by 2 weeks in this procedure. (J Vasc Surg 2001;33:570-8.)
Every two elementarily equivalent models have isomorphic ultrapowers

We prove (without G.C.H.) that every two elementarily equivalent models have isomorphic ultrapowers, and some related results.
THE HAHN-BANACH-LAGRANGE THEOREM

This article is about a new version of the Hahn–Banach theorem, which we will call the “Hahn–Banach–Lagrange theorem”, since it deals very effectively with certain problems of Lagrange type, as well as giving numerous results in functional analysis, convex analysis, and monotone operator theory. We will discuss several of these results in this article. †Dedicated to Diethard Pallaschke, on the occasion of his 65th birthday.
Externally induced jumps in the magneto-fingerprints of nano-structures

Abstract The universal conductance fluctuations (UCF) of two wires (films with 200 × 19 nm 2 cross section and 2 μm length) are investigated in a bridge circuit. External voltage spikes are applied to the sample. They yield jumps and irreversible changes in the conductance. The standard deviation of the conductance jumps and the conductance are roughly the same. Magneto-fingerprints confirm the change in the distribution of the scattering centers. The correlation between succeeding magneto-fingerprints reduces after the occurence of conductance jumps.
Hepatic macromolecular covalent binding of mononitrotoluenes in Fischer-344 rats

The mononitrotoluenes are important industrial chemicals which display isomeric specificity in their ability to induce hepatic DNA excision repair in Fischer-344 rats. Covalent binding of the structurally related hepatocarcinogen, 2,6-dinitrotoluene, to hepatic DNA is markedly decreased by prior administration of the sulfotransferase inhibitors pentachlorophenol (PCP) and 2,6-dichloro-4-nitrophenol (DCNP). The objectives of this study were to determine whether hepatic macromolecular covalent binding of the mononitrotoluene isomers differed and to determine whether covalent binding of the mononitrotoluenes to hepatic DNA in vivo was decreased by inhibitors of sulfotransferase. Male Fischer-344 rats were given a single oral dose of [ring-U-14C]-2-, 3- or 4-nitrotoluene (2-, 3- or 4-NT) and killed at various times thereafter. Livers were removed and analyzed for total and covalently bound radiolabel. Maximal concentrations of total radiolabel were observed between 3 and 12 h after the dose, and there were no large differences among the 3 isomers in peak concentrations achieved. Covalent binding to hepatic macromolecules was maximal 12 h after administration for all three isomers. Thereafter, concentrations of covalently bound 2-NT-derived material were always 2-6 times higher than those of 3- or 4-NT-derived material. When DNA was isolated from livers of rats given the mononitrotoluenes 12 h previously, only 2-NT was observed to covalently bind at concentrations above the limits of detection of the assay. The covalent binding of 2-NT, but not that of 3- or 4-NT, to both total hepatic macromolecules and DNA was markedly decreased by prior administration of either PCP or DCNP. Covalent binding to hepatic DNA was decreased by greater than 96%. The results of this study correlate well with studies which have demonstrated that 2-NT, but not 3- or 4-NT, induces DNA excision repair. Furthermore, they suggest that 2-NT, like the hepatocarcinogen 2,6-dinitrotoluene, requires the action of sulfotransferase for its conversion to a species capable of covalently binding to hepatic DNA.
Cocaine activates redox-regulated transcription factors and induces TNF-α expression in human brain endothelial cells

Cocaine abuse is frequently associated with cerebrovascular pathology. Although the cellular and molecular mechanisms of these alterations are not fully understood, they may involve oxidative injury or dysfunction of brain microvascular endothelial cells. To test this hypothesis, total glutathione levels, activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1), as well as induction of the TNF-alpha gene expression were determined in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC) exposed to cocaine. Exposure of HBMEC to cocaine resulted in a dose-dependent depletion of total glutathione levels. In addition, cocaine markedly activated redox-regulated transcription factors, NF-kappaB and AP-1. Activation of these transcription factors was accompanied by induction of AP-1- or NF-kappaB-dependent transcription, as measured by dual luciferase assay in HBMEC transfected with the AP-1- or NF-kappaB-responsive reporter constructs. Furthermore, HBMEC treatment with cocaine induced a dose-dependent expression of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) gene. These results indicate that exposure to cocaine can trigger inflammatory pathways via activation of redox-sensitive transcription factors and induction of expression of the inflammatory genes in HBMEC. These events may contribute to the cerebrovascular insults observed in cocaine-abused patients.
The Circulation of Bank Capital and the General Rate of Interest

Marxian economists have long asserted the impossibility of discovering an economic law at work in capitalist economies that determines a natural rate of interest. Without contradicting Marx’s claim...
Inverse-emulsion polymerization of acrylamide using block copolymeric surfactants: mechanism, kinetics and modelling

A comprehensive experimental investigation of the inverse-emulsion polymerization of acrylamide was carried out using an oil soluble initiator and a block copolymeric surfactant whose hydrophobic moiety is poly(12-hydroxystearic acid) and whose hydrophilic moiety is polyethylene oxide. It was found that the initial polymerization rate was first order with respect to molar monomer concentration, first order with respect to molar initiator concentration, and zeroth order with respect to molar emulsifier concentration. Based on these experimental findings, a mechanism was proposed which includes initiation, propagation, transfer to monomer and termination. The elementary reaction scheme also includes transfer to impurities which are found in the surfactant. The kinetic model developed from the proposed mechanism is found to be in good agreement with the experimental conversion and weight-average molecular weight data. Compared with sorbitan esters of fatty acids, the copolymeric surfactant provides higher polymerization rates and very high and linear molecular weights. These are comparable to those obtained by solution polymerization, however the total monomer level in the recipe can be substantially greater. Furthermore, stable inverse-laticies can be produced at emulsifier levels as low as 2 wt%.
Results from the 2009 Michigan farm to school survey: participation grows from 2004.

Abstract Objective This study investigated changes in Michigan school food service directors’ farm to school (FTS) participation levels and perspectives since a 2004 survey and factors that would facilitate FTS expansion. Design Electronic survey census of all Michigan school food service directors. Setting Michigan kindergarten-12th grade schools. Participants Food service directors of National School Lunch programs in Michigan. Variables Measured Survey respondents were asked about local food purchasing behaviors, interests, motivations, concerns, and barriers. Analysis Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were calculated to compare 2004 and 2009 results. Results Participation in FTS was more than 3 times higher (41.5%) than in 2004 (10.6%), and the vast majority of school districts (77.0%) had taken at least 1 step to connect students with local food. Budget and cost issues were ranked higher as barriers to FTS than in 2004, but the desire to help Michigan farms had also substantially increased. Fresh and whole produce items were generally preferred for local procurement over frozen or canned items. Conclusions and Implications Education to reverse perceived limits of procurement regulations, food safety assurances, and strategies to mitigate tight school food budgets are needed to encourage FTS expansion.
Identification of Ser-543 as the major regulatory phosphorylation site in spinach leaf nitrate reductase

Spinach leaf NADH:nitrate reductase (NR) responds to light/dark signals and photosynthetic activity in part as a result of rapid regulation by reversible protein phosphorylation. We have identified the major regulatory phosphorylation site as Ser-543, which is located in the hinge 1 region connecting the cytochrome b domain with the molybdenum-pterin cofactor binding domain of NR, using recombinant NR fragments containing or lacking the phosphorylation site sequence. Studies with NR partial reactions indicated that the block in electron flow caused by phosphorylation also could be localized to the hinge 1 region. A synthetic peptide (NR6) based on the phosphorylation site sequence was phosphorylated readily by NR kinase (NRk) in vitro. NR6 kinase activity tracked the ATP-dependent inactivation of NR during several chromatographic steps and completely inhibited inactivation/phosphorylation of native NR in vitro. Two forms of NRk were resolved by using anion exchange chromatography. Studies with synthetic peptide analogs indicated that both forms of NRk had similar specificity determinants, requiring a basic residue at P-3 (i.e., three amino acids N-terminal to the phosphorylated serine) and a hydrophobic residue at P-5. Both forms are strictly calcium dependent but belong to distinct families of protein kinases because they are distinct immunochemically.
What is the optimal international normalized ratio for patients undergoing catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation? Pick your poison (dose).

In this issue of Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology , Kim et al1 evaluate the relationship between the international normalized ratio (INR) level on the day of radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) and the rate of periprocedural complications. With the expanding role of ablation in the treatment of AF, defining the optimal strategy for managing anticoagulation therapy in the periprocedural period is crucial to avoid both bleeding and thromboembolic complications. Prior studies have shown that uninterrupted therapeutic anticoagulation with warfarin may be the safest approach because it avoids significant fluctuations in anticoagulation.2–5 When warfarin is held before the procedure and then resumed, the use of unfractionated or low molecular weight heparin as bridging therapy becomes necessary. When warfarin is continued during the periprocedural period, bridging is unnecessary, but the optimal range of INR is not known. Kim et al1 try to address this question in their retrospective study by examining categories of INR and the risk of vascular access complications, cardiac tamponade, bleeding, and thromboembolism in 1133 patients who underwent the AF ablation for >2-year …
Explaining software developer acceptance of methodologies: a comparison of five theoretical models

Many organizations attempt to deploy methodologies intended to improve software development processes. However, resistance by individual software developers against using such methodologies often obstructs their successful deployment. To better explain why individual developers accept or resist methodologies, five theoretical models of individual intentions to accept information technology tools were examined. In a field study of 128 developers in a large organization that implemented a methodology, each model explained significant variance in developers' intentions to use the methodology. Similar to findings from the tool adoption context, we found that, if a methodology is not regarded as useful by developers, its prospects for successful deployment may be severely undermined. In contrast to the typical pattern of findings in a tool context, however, we found that methodology adoption intentions are driven by: 1) the presence of an organizational mandate to use the methodology, 2) the compatibility of the methodology with how developers perform their work, and 3) the opinions of developers' coworkers and supervisors toward using the methodology. Collectively, these results provide surprising new insights into why software developers accept or resist methodologies and suggest what software engineering managers might do to overcome developer resistance.
Influence of storage period and temperature on the postharvest characteristics of six melon (Cucumis melo L., Inodorus Group) cultivars

Abstract Six inodorus melon cultivars ( Cucumis melo L., Inodorus Group, Naud., cv. Amarelo, Golden Casaba, Honeydew, Honey Loupe, Juan Canary, and Paceco) were harvested at horticultural maturity and evaluated for quality traits during three weeks of storage at 7, 12 and 15 °C plus three days at 20 °C. The soluble solids content did not change significantly during storage. Firmness of the pulp tissue declined during storage for all cultivars, but there were no significant differences among storage temperatures within a cultivar. Carbon dioxide production decreased during storage for all cultivars. Ethylene increased during storage, but at different rates for each cultivar. Weight loss was under 3% after three weeks of storage at 7 or 12 °C, but it was around 4% for melons stored at 15 °C. Storage temperature had no significant effect on the external appearance of ‘Honeydew’ and ‘Golden Casaba’, but other cultivars developed symptoms of chilling injury either during storage or during the subsequent three days at 20 °C. Pitting and increased decay appeared first in susceptible fruit stored at 7 °C and later for fruit stored at 12 and 15 °C.
Survival and Detectability of Long Period Planets Beyond 100 AU

Direct imaging searches have begun to detect planetary and brown dwarf companions and to place constraints on the presence of giant planets at large separations from their host star. This work helps to motivate such planet searches by predicting a population of young giant planets that could be detectable by direct imaging campaigns. Both the classical core accretion and the gravitational instability model for planet formation are hard-pressed to form such planets in situ . Therefore, direct imaging searches have traditionally appealed to the possibility of in situ planet formation via a large scale gravitational instability. Here, we show that dynamical instabilities among planetary systems that originally formed multiple giant planets much closer to the host star could produce a population of giant planets at large separations. The number and distribution of such planets is a strong function of time, complicating the statistical analysis of direct imaging surveys. The number and radial distribution of such planets is related to the number of giant planets formed per host star and the timescale for the disk evolution. Thus, direct imaging programs with sufficient sensitivity and survey size could place interesting constraints on planet formation models.
A convergent framework for QoS-driven social media content delivery over mobile networks

Advanced socio-technical systems especially handheld and mobile devices are no longer esoteric; rather they are a part of daily life for billions of people worldwide endowing a sense of every time connectedness. With larger bandwidths, powerful processing capabilities, better displays, user friendly and haptic interfaces, mobile platforms holds a promising future for social applications. However, advances in web technologies have led to the development of complex set of applications that demands a nimble and robust architecture that is adaptive to the network constraints. This has resulted in a favorable playground for mobile-aware social applications offering practitioners and researchers key architectural challenges with numerous fledgling opportunities. In this article, we elaborate upon the challenges and provide a framework for incorporating cross-layer interaction between social applications and wireless network capabilities. Specifically, we address the problem of delivering social network content to mobile devices with the required QoS. We propose a generic framework that addresses this issue. We also discuss some suitable wireless network protocols that could be utilized to provide QoS for the delivery of content generated by social applications and for reliable interactions between mobile users and social applications followed by possible future research directions.
Academic Identity Development Through Self-Determination: Successful College Students With Learning Disabilities

This study provides a model of academic identity development for college students with learning disabilities from the integrative self-determination themes of persistence, competence, career decision making, and self-realization. Nineteen self-determined and high-achieving participants were interviewed. The participants' stories illustrate how persistence influences competence, which in turn influences career decision making and ultimately enhances self-realization and supports one's academic identity. Knowledge of one's learning disability, along with self-advocacy and conflict resolution skills, improved the students' ability to obtain academic accommodations in college settings. Secondary education implications include the importance of providing opportunities for students to (a) acquire self-knowledge about their disability, (b) autonomously practice self-advocacy with teachers, and (c) develop conflict resolution skills within the context of academic accommodation requests.
Glycobiology of sperm-egg interactions in deuterostomes

The process of fertilization begins when sperm contact the outermost egg investment and ends with fusion of the two haploid pronuclei in the egg cytoplasm. Many steps in fertilization involve carbohydrate-based molecular recognition between sperm and egg. Although there is conservation of gamete recognition molecules within vertebrates, their homologues have not yet been discovered in echinoderms and ascidians (the invertebrate deuterostomes). In echinoderms, long sulfated polysaccharides act as ligands for sperm receptors. Ascidians employ egg coat glycosides that are recognized by sperm surface glycosidases. Vertebrate egg coats contain zona pellucida (ZP) family glycoproteins, whose carbohydrates bind to sperm receptors. Several candidate sperm receptors for vertebrate ZP proteins have been identified and are discussed here. This brief review focuses on new information concerning fertilization in deuterostomes (the phylogenetic group including echinoderms, ascidians, and vertebrates) and highlights protein-carbohydrate interactions involved in this process.
CMOS Polysilicon Thin Film Transistors with Simultaneously Deposited Layers for Source-Drain and Gate

A new process architecture for fabricating CMOS thin film transistors (TFTs) using in-situ-doped polysilicon source-drain layers is proposed. In the new architecture, a top-gate n-channel TFT and a bottom-gate p-channel TFT, or vice versa, form a CMOS pair. This allows an n+ - doped polysilicon bottom (or top) layer to serve simultaneously as the source-drain layer of the n-channel TFTs and the gate layer of the p-channel TFTs; while a p+ - doped polysilicon top (or bottom) layer serves as the source-drain layer of the p-channel TFT and the gate layer of the n-channel TFT. It thus eliminates the deposition of a separate doped gate layer normally required in the conventional process flow. In addition, a thin tri-layer stack, consisting of undoped-poly / gate dielectric / undoped-poly, separates the two doped polysilicon layers, thus allowing the use of a single island mask to define the channel regions for both the n- and p-channel TFTs. As a result, the photolithographic steps are also reduced by one mask. Working n- and p-channel TFTs with both top- and bottomgate structures, obtained by reversing the dopant types of the top and the bottom layers, have been successfully demonstrated using low-temperature (< 600 °C) polysilicon technology.
Exploring neutrino parameters with a beta-beam experiment from FNAL to DUSEL

Abstract We discuss in detail the physics reach of an experimental set-up where electron neutrinos (anti-neutrinos) produced in a beta-beam facility at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (FNAL) are sent, over a distance of L ≃ 1300 km , to the Deep Underground Science and Engineering Laboratory (DUSEL). A 300 kt Water Cherenkov (WC) detector and a 50 kt Liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber (LArTPC) are considered as possible detector choices. We propose to use 18Ne and 6He as source ions for ν e and ν ¯ e beams respectively. The maximum Lorentz boost factor, γ, available for these ions using the Tevatron are γ Ne = 585 and γ He = 350 . This particular set-up provides the opportunity to probe the first oscillation maximum using ν e beam and the second oscillation maximum using the ν ¯ e beam which helps to evade some parameter degeneracies. The resulting physics sensitivities for θ 13 , CP violation and the mass hierarchy are compared to those of a conventional superbeam from FNAL to DUSEL.
A designer friendly 45nm high performance technology with in-situ C-doped e-SiGe & dual stress liner in SRAM

A 45 nm high performance technology with 11 level metallization is presented for SOC applications. High performance and density are maintained through new process optimizations that allow the use of less restrictive layouts by eliminating defect generation from strain enhancing processes. Additionally, technology modeling has been made simpler through optimization of key processes to minimize context dependences while simultaneously providing a competitive technology. High drive currents of 1150 uA/um and 720 uA/um are obtained for nMOS and pMOS, respectively at 1.0 V and Ioff of 100 nA/mum. The first yielding SRAMs incorporating both in-situ C-doped e-SiGe and dual stress liner (DSL) in the SRAM are demonstrated.
A model for decision maintenance in the WinWin collaboration framework

Cost-effective engineering and evolution of complex software must involve the different stakeholders concurrently and collaboratively. The hard problem is providing computer support for such collaborative activities. The WinWin approach being developed and experimented at the USC Center for Software Engineering provides a domain independent solution for the stakeholders to cooperate in the requirements engineering phase of the software lifecycle. A major problem confronted in the WinWin framework is aiding decision coordination-coordinating the decision making activities of the stakeholders. A key element in supporting decision coordination is decision maintenance. As decisions undergo evolution, the effects of such changes on existing decision elements must be determined and the decision structure appropriately revised. The paper presents an approach to addressing the problem of supporting decision maintenance. The key ideas involve a) defining an extended ontology for decision rationale, that models the WinWin decision space and their states, b) formally describing a theory based on that ontology that specify conditions for states to hold, and c) defining an agent that utilizes the theory to determine revisions and coordinate with other agents to propagate revisions in a distributed support framework.
Microscale Distribution of Cesium Sorbed to Biotite and Muscovite

Individual 1−3 mm biotite and muscovite clasts from Hanford sediment were contacted with 0.08 M CsNO3. They were examined using electron or X-ray microprobe methods, as intact specimens or sectioned perpendicular to their basal planes. Cs+ was observed to preferentially sorb to mica edges, steps on mica surfaces, or fractured regions. The localization of Cs conformed to hypothesized strong binding to frayed edge sites in preference to sites on basal planes. In section, Cs+ was found to penetrate the mica interior, forming discrete zones of concentration, particularly in muscovite. In biotite, Cs was more abundant, permeating the clasts, but also forming discrete zones of higher concentration. Concentrated Cs on both clast edges and within clast interiors corresponded to microscopic but relatively extensive zones where K was depleted. The localization of sorbed Cs in areas where K was depleted suggested that weathering reactions had caused the formation of frayed edge sites within the micas. Cs+ accessed c...
Tradeoffs between the axial resolution and the signal-to-noise ratio in elastography

Conventional strain estimation techniques in ultrasound-elastography utilize cross-correlation of the pre- and post-compression signals. The quality of the resulting strain estimates is typically quantified through several factors such as the elastographic SNR (SNR/sub e/), the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR/sub e/), and the spatial resolution. These quality factors depend on the mechanical, acoustic, and signal processing parameters. We find a trade-off between the achievable SNRe (and CNR/sub e/) and the axial resolution. We also find that the trade-off occurs only with respect to the signal processing parameters, while for the physical parameters (the mechanical and the acoustic parameters) such a tradeoff does not exist. Simulations and experiments were used to corroborate this hypothesis.
Distributional Constraints on Acceptance of Nonpoint Pollution Controls

An economically efficient, nonpoint pollution control strategy for a multijurisdictional 208 area may result in a benefit-cost distribution that will prohibit its acceptance. Vesting financial authorities in a regional water quality management agency would allow for implementation of a local compensation scheme designed to facilitate acceptance. Such a scheme would involve raising revenues from water quality beneficiaries that would, in turn, be paid as inducements for implementation of nonpoint control practices. These propositions are first defended with a theoretical argument. Then a linear programming model is applied for an empirical case analysis.
Robust observer backstepping neural network control of flexible-joint manipulator

An output-feedback controller design for flexible-joint manipulators is presented. The proposed controller design consists of a nonlinear Luenberger-type observer, multilayer neural network plant identifier, and controller based on a backstepping framework and variable structure controller. Only link angular positions are measured as outputs. The controller achieves good performance despite the presence of additive external disturbances, unmodeled dynamics, actuator nonlinearities, i.e., deadzone and backlash, and payload changes. Simulation of a two-link flexible-joint manipulator is also included.
Catastrophic latchup in a CMOS operational amplifier

We report catastrophic single-event latchup results for a CMOS operational amplifier. Thermal and optical imagings in conjunction with current distributions were used to identify latchup-sensitive regions. Differences in cross section for various ions show that charge is collected at depths beyond 40 /spl mu/m, causing the cross section to be underestimated unless long-range ions are used. Latchup testing with short-range ions may underestimate the cross section or even fail to trigger a latchup event that would occur with more energetic ions.
An inquiry-based teaching tool for understanding arterial blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular function.

Educators are placing a greater emphasis on the development of cooperative laboratory experiences that supplement the traditional lecture format. The new laboratory materials should encourage activ...
Altered leaf morphology, leaf resource dilution and defense chemistry induction in frost-defoliated aspen (Populus tremuloides)

Summary In May 2007, a widespread frost event defoliated much of Utah’s high elevation aspen. About 5 weeks later, the frost-defoliated aspen produced a second leaf flush. The objective of this study was to characterize changes in leaf morphology and function in re-flush leaves following frost defoliation. Leaf size and thickness, photosynthesis, carbohydrate and nutrient status, and defense chemistry (phenolic glycosides and condensed tannins) were measured in first and second flush leaves. The second flush leaves produced two different morphological responses depending on frost damage severity. Severe frost damage was characterized by patchy canopy re-flushing with leaves that were on average four times larger than the first flush leaves. Moderate frost damage produced full canopy flushes with second flush leaves that were typically smaller than the first flush leaves. The second flush leaves tended to be thicker, and had significantly lower nutrient and sucrose concentrations, but had equal or higher rates of photosynthesis. These leaves showed a general pattern of defense chemistry induction with phenolic glycosides and condensed tannins increasing two- to threefold. Some of the changes in leaf morphology and defense chemistry observed in second flush leaves in 2007 persisted in leaves produced in the following year. We hypothesize that defense chemistry induction following abiotic defoliation serves as insurance against secondary defoliation events by herbivores that may further deplete nutrient and carbohydrate leaf resources below threshold points that are critical for physiological function. Resource dilution and allocation to secondary defense may place constraints on growth capacity.
The Environment and Trade

Reflecting the emphasis of recent work in the field of trade and the environment, this review focuses on empirical issues, primarily econometric estimates of the pollution haven effect and simulation-based calculations of carbon leakage. A brief discussion of the theory explains why intuition from partial equilibrium models may not carry over to a general equilibrium setting.
To brake or not to brake? Is there a question?

The vehicle following problem in an automated highway is approached from the point of view of safety. In particular the situation where an intervehicle collision is unavoidable and the relative velocity at impact is what determines the safety of the situation, is considered. It is shown, using tools from optimal control, that braking as hard as possible is not the best possible strategy in all cases. More importantly, the assumption that the worst that the vehicle ahead can do is to brake as hard as possible may also be incorrect.
Water and Ethanol Droplet Wetting Transition during Evaporation on Omniphobic Surfaces

Omniphobic surfaces with reentrant microstructures have been investigated for a range of applications, but the evaporation of high- and low-surface-tension liquid droplets placed on such surfaces has not been rigorously studied. In this work, we develop a technique to fabricate omniphobic surfaces on copper substrates to allow for a systematic examination of the effects of surface topography on the evaporation dynamics of water and ethanol droplets. Compared to a water droplet, the ethanol droplet not only evaporates faster, but also inhibits Cassie-to-Wenzel wetting transitions on surfaces with certain geometries. We use an interfacial energy-based description of the system, including the transition energy barrier and triple line energy, to explain the underlying transition mechanism and behaviour observed. Suppression of the wetting transition during evaporation of droplets provides an important metric for evaluating the robustness of omniphobic surfaces requiring such functionality.