cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Short-Period Waves That Heat the Corona Detected at the 1999 Eclipse

As a part of a study of the cause of solar coronal heating, we searched for high-frequency (∼ 1 Hz) intensity oscillations in coronal loops in the [Fe xiv] coronal green line. We summarize results from observations made at the 11 August 1999 total solar eclipse from Râmnicu-Vâlcea, Romania, through clear skies. We discuss the image reduction and analysis through two simultaneous series of coronal CCD images digitized at 10 Hz for a total time of about 140 s. One series of images was taken through a 3.6 A filter isolating the 5303 A[Fe xiv] coronal green line and the other through a 100 A filter in the nearby K-corona continuum. Previous observations, described in Pasachoff et al. (2000), showed no evidence for oscillations in the [Fe xiv] green line at a level greater than 2% of coronal intensity. We describe several improvements made over the 1998 eclipse that led to increased image clarity and sensitivity. The corona was brighter in 1999 with the solar maximum, further improving the data. We use Fourier analysis to search in the [Fe xiv] channel for intensity oscillations in loops at the base of the corona. Such oscillations in the 1-Hz range are predicted as a result of density fluctuations from the resonant absorption of MHD waves. The dissipation of a significant amount of mechanical energy from the photosphere into the corona through this mechanism could provide sufficient energy to heat the corona. A Monte Carlo model of the data suggests the presence of enhanced power, particularly in the 0.75–1.0 Hz range, and we conclude that MHD waves remain a viable method for coronal heating.
Decay of Weak Solutions to the 2D Dissipative Quasi-Geostrophic Equation

We address the decay of the norm of weak solutions to the 2D dissipative quasi-geostrophic equation. When the initial data θ0 is in L 2 only, we prove that the L 2 norm tends to zero but with no uniform rate, that is, there are solutions with arbitrarily slow decay. For θ0 in L p ∩ L 2, with 1 ≤ p < 2, we are able to obtain a uniform decay rate in L 2. We also prove that when the $$L^{\frac{2}{2\alpha-1}}$$ norm of θ0 is small enough, the L q norms, for $$q > {\frac{2}{2\alpha-1}}$$ , have uniform decay rates. This result allows us to prove decay for the L q norms, for $$q \geq {\frac{2}{2\alpha-1}}$$ , when θ0 is in $$L^2 \cap L^{\frac{2}{2\alpha-1}}$$ .
RAId_aPS: MS/MS analysis with multiple scoring functions and spectrum-specific statistics

Statistically meaningful comparison/combination of peptide identification results from various search methods is impeded by the lack of a universal statistical standard. Providing an -value calibration protocol, we demonstrated earlier the feasibility of translating either the score or heuristic -value reported by any method into the textbook-defined -value, which may serve as the universal statistical standard. This protocol, although robust, may lose spectrum-specific statistics and might require a new calibration when changes in experimental setup occur. To mitigate these issues, we developed a new MS/MS search tool, RAId_aPS, that is able to provide spectrum-specific -values for additive scoring functions. Given a selection of scoring functions out of RAId score, K-score, Hyperscore and XCorr, RAId_aPS generates the corresponding score histograms of all possible peptides using dynamic programming. Using these score histograms to assign -values enables a calibration-free protocol for accurate significance assignment for each scoring function. RAId_aPS features four different modes: (i) compute the total number of possible peptides for a given molecular mass range, (ii) generate the score histogram given a MS/MS spectrum and a scoring function, (iii) reassign -values for a list of candidate peptides given a MS/MS spectrum and the scoring functions chosen, and (iv) perform database searches using selected scoring functions. In modes (iii) and (iv), RAId_aPS is also capable of combining results from different scoring functions using spectrum-specific statistics. The web link is http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/CBBresearch/Yu/raid_aps/index.html. Relevant binaries for Linux, Windows, and Mac OS X are available from the same page.
Temperature Inversion on the Surface of Externally Heated Optically Thick Multigrain Dust Clouds

It was recently discovered that the temperature in the surface layer of externally heated optically thick gray dust clouds increases with the optical depth for some distance from the surface, as opposed to the normal decrease in temperature with distance in the rest of the cloud. This temperature inversion is a result of efficient absorption of diffuse flux from the cloud interior by the surface dust exposed to external radiation. Grains of size 1 μm or bigger experience this effect when the external flux is of stellar spectrum. We explore what happens to the effect when dust is a mixture of grain sizes (multigrain). Two possible boundary conditions are considered: (1) a constant external flux without constrains on the dust temperature, and (2) the maximum dust temperature set to the sublimation temperature. We find that the first condition allows small grains to completely suppress the temperature inversion of big grains if the overall opacity is dominated by small grains. The second condition enables big grains to maintain the inversion even when they are a minor contributor to the opacity. In reality, the choice of boundary condition depends on the dust dynamics. When applied to the physics of protoplanetary disks, the temperature inversion leads to a previously unrecognized disk structure in which optically thin dust can exist inside the dust destruction radius of an optically thick disk. We conclude that the transition between the dusty disk and the gaseous inner clearing is not a sharp edge, but rather a large optically thin region.
Synthesis of aminophenyl and methoxyphenyl perfluoroalkyl ketones

Abstract The title compounds are obtained by direct hydrolysis of the corresponding 2/4-perfluoroalkyl-substituted anilines and anisoles by the system AcOH/HBr/H 2 O/Al 2 O 3 . A two-step preparation of 2/4-perfluoroacylanilines involves the treatment of the 2/4-perfluoroalkylaniline with sodium ethoxide followed by hydrolysis of the resultant diethyl acetal with hydriodic acid.
Computer graphics—Whence and hence☆☆☆

Abstract Computer Graphics is one of the most important, far-reaching, sophisticated, and glamorous endeavors of the computer field. It can be useful to every discipline that employs to advantage the computer. At the present time it is available for all the major computer areas—input, output, programming, and debugging. Whence did it originate? Exactly what is it and how can it be used? What are its future trends? These questions are considered in this article which divides Computer Graphics into two main divisions—passive and interactive. This article describes the most popular subdivisions of passive graphics—microfilm recorders and plotters—in detail. Computer Animation and Computer-generated movies as well as the main types of display devices are included under interactive graphics. This survey article considers the history of all the main types of computer graphics; discusses the typical hardware and main attributes as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each type; presents a section on computer-aided design, and a section on computer graphics professional groups and societies; and in its conclusion indicates some of the pit-falls of this powerful computing tool.
Testing the Leptogenesis Mechanism of the Seesaw Model

The seesaw theory, the leading theory for particle interactions, provides a viable mechanism for generating the matter-antimatter asymmetry of the universe. Testing the leptogenesis mechanism directly requires measurement of the d=6 operator of the low-energy effective Lagrangian, in addition to the more familiar d=5 operator which generates Majorana masses for the light neutrinos when the electroweak symmetry is spontaneously broken. This important experimental challenge awaits the next generation of particle physicists.
Inflation and relative-price variability: the effect of commodity aggregation

Using quarterly US data for 1948–89, we study the effect of the level of commodity aggregation on the relation between inflation and relative-price variability. The effect is assessed for the full period and the subperiods 1948–73 and 1974–89. The relationship is investigated for actual inflation as well as its expected and unexpected components. Although the parameter estimates show sizeable differences across the two aggregation levels, the qualitative picture is the same for both levels in all cases. One of the by-products of the exercise is the observation that unexpected inflation shows a much stronger positive covariation with relative-price variability than the expected component.
An Einstein X-Ray Survey of Optically Selected Galaxies. I. Data

We present the results of a complete Einstein imaging proportional counter X-ray survey of optically selected galaxies from the Shapley-Ames Catalog, the Uppsala General Catalogue, and the European Southern Observatory Catalog. Well-defined optical criteria are used to select the galaxies, and X-ray fluxes are measured at the optically defined positions. The result is a comprehensive list of X-ray detection and upper limit measurements for 1018 galaxies. Of these, 827 have either independent distance estimates or radial velocities. Associated optical, redshift, and distance data have been assembled for these galaxies, and their distances come from a combination of directly predicted distances and those predicted from the Faber-Burstein Great Attractor/Virgocentric infall model. The accuracy of the X-ray fluxes has been checked in three different ways; all are consistent with the derived X-ray fluxes being of ≤0.1 dex accuracy. In particular, there is agreement with previously published X-ray fluxes for galaxies in common with a 1991 study by Roberts et al. and a 1992 study by Fabbiano et al. The data presented here will be used in further studies to characterize the X-ray output of galaxies of various morphological types and thus to enable the determination of the major sources contributing to the X-ray emission from galaxies.
A voltammetric study of the electrodeposition chemistry in the Cu+In+Se system

Abstract The mechanism of formation of CuInSe2 thin films on a glassy carbon surface during voltammetric scanning was examined in detail for the first time using a combination of Pourbaix analyses, cyclic and hydrodynamic voltammetry of the binary In + Se and Cu + Se systems, along with cyclic photovoltammetry, i.e. cyclic voltammetry combined with periodic white light illumination of the electrode/electrolyte interphase, on the ternary Cu + In + Se system. A sulfuric acid matrix containing SeO2 and uncomplexed Cu2+ and In3+ ions was used in all cases. The data on the binary systems were consistent with the facile formation of a Cu2−xSe solid phase in the Cu+Se system and a kinetically sluggish interaction between In and Se in the In+Se case. An internally consistent mechanistic scheme is proposed for the ternary system involving the concurrent formation of the Cu2−xSe phase, its subsequent reduction coupled with the 6 e− reduction of H2SeO3 to H2Se, and finally the underpotential assimilation of In into the solid phase leading to the photoactive chalcopyrite semiconductor, CuInSe2. The cathodic decomposition of the initially formed Cu2−xSe is shown to be a key to subsequent assimilation of In and formation of CuInSe2. The photocathodic response observed for this thin-film formation was diagnostic of a Cu-rich ternary composition and consequent p-type behavior for the conditions pertaining to this study.
Silicon Crystal Growth on a Ni Silicide Seeding Layer by DC Magnetron Sputtering

Direct current (d.c.) magnetron sputtering was applied to polycrystalline Si growth and yielded a uniform Si film at a deposition temperature below the glass softening point. The approach involved the deposition of a thin Ni film over SiO2 prior to Si sputtering. The interaction of a fine-grained metallic Ni with an atomic Si provided by a sputtering gun resulted in the formation of Ni silicide at the Ni-Si interface immediately after the onset of Si deposition. The phase composition of the nickel silicide was controlled by the temperature of deposition and the Si-to-Ni concentration ratio. The silicide region exhibited a layered structure where the bottom layer consisted of the mixture of several NixSiy phases and the top layer represented the pure NiSi2 phase. This Ni disilicide layer provided the nucleation sites for the epitaxial Si crystal growth. As a result, the polycrystalline silicon film consisted of 0.1-0.5ώm grains with preferred (11) or (110) orientation without an indication of an amorphous phase. The carrier lifetime of 11 ώs indicated good electrical properties which make the film potentially applicable to fabrication of thin film transistors and solar cells. The Ni prelayer thickness in the 5-100nm range dramatically influenced the crystal size and preferential crystal orientation. Possible mechanisms responsible for the nickel silicide induced grain growth of silicon and the correlation between the Ni silicide and silicon microstructure is discussed.
Tether satellite system collision study

Abstract A study was performed to determine the probability of collision with resident space objects and untrackable debris for the tether component of the Tethered Satellite System (TSS) after it broke away from the space shuttle orbiter (mission STS-75) in February 1996. Both an analytical and a numerical approach were used in this study, and the results obtained with these two methods were found to be in good agreement. These results show that the deployed tether is expected to have been impacted by several particles 0.1 mm or larger in size. The probability of collision with objects 10 cm in size or larger was on the order of 10−3 per month. Since the severed tether reentered within one month after deployment, the collision hazard to other objects while in orbit was small. The analytical methods used in this study are general and can be applied to future tether collision evaluations.
The new immigration contestation: social movements and local immigration policy making in the United States, 2000-2011.

Analyzing oppositional social movements in the context of municipal immigration ordinances, the authors examine whether the explanatory power of resource mobilization, political process, and strain theories of social movements’ impact on policy outcomes differs when considering proactive as opposed to reactive movements. The adoption of pro-immigrant (proactive) ordinances was facilitated by the presence of immigrant community organizations and of sympathetic local political allies. The adoption of anti-immigrant (reactive) ordinances was influenced by structural social changes, such as rapid increases in the local Latino population, that were framed as threats. The study also finds that pro-immigrant protest events can influence policy in two ways, contributing both to the passage of pro-immigrant ordinances in the locality where protests occur and also inhibiting the passage of anti-immigrant ordinances in neighboring cities.
Preemptive R&D, Rent Dissipation, and the “Leverage Theory”

This paper provides a new perspective on the validity of the so-called leverage theory. In a model of preemptive innovation in "systems" markets, I examine the effect of bundling on R&D incentives. I find that bundling provides a channel through which monopoly "slack" in one component market can be shifted to another, with the effect of mitigating rent dissipation in the systems market. Bundling can be profitable if this beneficial effect of reduced rent dissipation outweighs the negative effect of intensified price competition. After demonstrating the private optimality of bundling, its welfare implications are considered. Finally, the results can be reinterpreted to analyze the relationship between compatibility decisions and R&D incentives in mix-and-match models.
A diosphenol-based strategy for the total synthesis of (-)-terpestacin.

A novel diosphenol-based strategy has been developed for the enantioselective synthesis of (−)-terpestacin by multiple usage of the α-diketone functionality, first in the “Pd AAA−Claisen rearrangement” protocol, and second by the employment of its oxidized form, the ene-1,2-dione, as an excellent Michael acceptor. This synthesis demonstrates that the sequence of O-allylation−Claisen rearrangement provides a chemo- and regioselective enolate allylation, which can be performed asymmetrically with respect to the enolate or allyl fragment or both. In addition, many interesting chemoselectivity issues, including a highly selective RCM and a dihydroxylation, have been addressed. Overall, this synthesis was accomplished in 20 longest linear steps (24 total steps) from the inexpensive and commercially available 3-methyl-1,2-cyclopentanedione.
The use of optimization theory to design simple multivariable control systems

Abstract Techniques for designing multivariable control systems which are simple to implement are described in some detail. The approach is based on Pontryagin's maximum principle, although approximate solutions are used in some cases. The system chosen for investigation was a continuous stirred tank reactor, but most of the methods can be extended to more complex processes.
From D -Camphor to the Taxanes. Highly Concise Rearrangement- Based Approaches to Taxusin and Taxol

Our involvement with the de novo acquisition of taxusin (1) and taxol (2) has been fueled in large part by the enchanting structural features of these molecules and the much heralded antitumor efficacy of 2, particularly in patients beset with refractory ovarian, breast, and lung cancers.1 In combination with the unusual mode of action of 2, which exhibits a remarkable capacity for stabilizing microtubule assembly and deterring cell division,2 the intrinsically exciting promise shown by taxol for benefiting human health has commanded unrivaled attention.
Unilateral incompatibility as a major cause of skewed segregation in the cross between Lycopersicon esculentum and L. pennellii.

Skewed segregations are frequent events in segregating populations derived from different interspecific crosses in tomato. To determine a basis for skewed segregations in the progeny of the cross between Lycopersicon esculentum and L. pennellii, monogenic segregations of 16 isozyme loci were analyzed in an F2 and two backcross populations of this cross. In the F2, 9 loci mapping to chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 9, 10 and 12 exhibited skewed segregations and in all cases there was an excess of L. pennellii homozygotes. The genotypic frequencies at all but one locus were at Hardy-Weinberg equilibria. In the backcross populations, all except two loci exhibited normal Mendelian segregations. No post-zygotic selection model could statistically or biologically explain the observed segregation patterns in the F2 and backcross populations. A pre-zygotic selection model, assuming selective elimination of the male gametophytes during pollen function (i.e., from pollination to karyogamy), could adequately explain the observed segregations in all three populations. The direction of the skewed segregations in the F2 population was consistent with that expected based on the effects of unilateral incompatibility reactions between the two species. In addition, the chromosomal locations of 5 of the 9 markers that exhibited skewed segregations coincided with the locations of several known compatibility-related genes in tomato. Multigenic unilateral incompatibility reactions between L. esculentum pollen and the stigma or style of L. pennellii (or its hybrid derivatives) are suggested to be the major cause of the skewed segregations in the F2 progeny of this cross.
Designing multifunctional quantum dots for bioimaging, detection, and drug delivery

The emerging field of bionanotechnology aims at revolutionizing biomedical research and clinical practice via introduction of nanoparticle-based tools, expanding capabilities of existing investigative, diagnostic, and therapeutic techniques as well as creating novel instruments and approaches for addressing challenges faced by medicine. Quantum dots (QDs), semiconductor nanoparticles with unique photo-physical properties, have become one of the dominant classes of imaging probes as well as universal platforms for engineering of multifunctional nanodevices. Possessing versatile surface chemistry and superior optical features, QDs have found initial use in a variety of in vitro and in vivo applications. However, careful engineering of QD probes guided by application-specific design criteria is becoming increasingly important for successful transition of this technology from proof-of-concept studies towards real-life clinical applications. This review outlines the major design principles and criteria, from general ones to application-specific, governing the engineering of novel QD probes satisfying the increasing demands and requirements of nanomedicine and discusses the future directions of QD-focused bionanotechnology research (critical review, 201 references).
Can Ethnicity Replace Race? Afro-Colombians, Indigeneity and the Colombian Multicultural State

Diferentes paises latinoamericanos, Colombia incluida, han declarado ser naciones multiculturales. En el proceso, estos han reestructurado los derechos legales de acuerdo con lineas de distincion cultural, y han proveido a los grupos etnicos con derechos especiales bajo nuevas constituciones politicas. Una dimension crucial de este cambio legal ha sido la consagracion de una cierta conceptualizacion de etnicidad. En este articulo me concentro en los procesos que permiten y que tambien limitan la pertenencia etnica en Colombia, para comprender el concepto de indigeneidad sobre el cual dichos nuevos ideas de etnicidad estan basados. Examino el uso de ideas especificas de indigeneidad en un conflicto territorial entre comunidades indigenas y negras en los Andes, y tambien el fallo de la Corte Constitucional de la Tutela 422 de 1996, caso en el que se trata de los derechos de los afro-colombianos. Estos ejemplos muestran como en Colombia ciertas ideas locales y globales de indigeneidad establecen quien pertenece a un grupo etnico y quien esta incluido en un grupo racial. Ademas, estos dos casos demuestran el papel trascendental que tiene el territorio en la construccion de los conceptos de indigeneidad y de grupo etnico. palabras claves: indigeneidad, Colombia, territorio, raza, etnia
Parameter convergence and stability in continuous-time indirect adaptive control

The author considers an indirect adaptive unity feedback controller consisting of an mth-order SISO (single input, single output) compensator controlling an nth-order strictly proper SISO plant. It is shown that exponential convergence of the plant parameter estimation error as well as asymptotic time invariance and global exponential stability of the controlled closed-loop system can be guaranteed by requiring that the reference input has at least 2n+m points of spectral support. >
Study of the Flow in Centrifugal Compressor

Reducing the losses of the tip clearance flow is one of the keys in an unshrouded centrifugal compressor design and development because tip clearances are large in relation to the span of the blades and also centrifugal compressors produce a sufficiently large pressure rise in single stage. This problem is more acute for a low flow high-pressure ratio impeller design. The large tip clearance would cause flow separations, and as a result it would drop both the efficiency and surge margin. Thus a design of a high efficiency and wide operation range low flow coefficient centrifugal compressor is a great challenge. This paper describes a recent development of high efficiency and wide surge margin low flow coefficient centrifugal compressor. A viscous turbomachinery optimal design method developed by the authors for axial flow machine was further extended and used in the centrifugal compressor design. The compressor has three main parts: impeller, a low solidity diffuser and volute. The tip clearance is under a special consideration in this design to allow impeller insensitiveness to the clearance. A patented three-dimensional low solidity diffuser design method is used and applied to this design. The compressor test results demonstrated to be successful to extend the low solidity diffusers to high-pressure ratio compressor. The compressor stage performance showed the total to static efficiency of the compressor being about 85% and stability range over 35%. The test results are in good agreement with the design.
Combinatorial actions of Tgfβ and Activin ligands promote oligodendrocyte development and CNS myelination

In the embryonic CNS, development of myelin-forming oligodendrocytes is limited by bone morphogenetic proteins, which constitute one arm of the transforming growth factor-β (Tgfβ) family and signal canonically via Smads 1/5/8. Tgfβ ligands and Activins comprise the other arm and signal via Smads 2/3, but their roles in oligodendrocyte development are incompletely characterized. Here, we report that Tgfβ ligands and activin B (ActB) act in concert in the mammalian spinal cord to promote oligodendrocyte generation and myelination. In mouse neural tube, newly specified oligodendrocyte progenitors (OLPs) are first exposed to Tgfβ ligands in isolation, then later in combination with ActB during maturation. In primary OLP cultures, Tgfβ1 and ActB differentially activate canonical Smad3 and non-canonical MAP kinase signaling. Both ligands enhance viability, and Tgfβ1 promotes proliferation while ActB supports maturation. Importantly, co-treatment strongly activates both signaling pathways, producing an additive effect on viability and enhancing both proliferation and differentiation such that mature oligodendrocyte numbers are substantially increased. Co-treatment promotes myelination in OLP-neuron co-cultures, and maturing oligodendrocytes in spinal cord white matter display strong Smad3 and MAP kinase activation. In spinal cords of ActB-deficient Inhbb−/− embryos, apoptosis in the oligodendrocyte lineage is increased and OLP numbers transiently reduced, but numbers, maturation and myelination recover during the first postnatal week. Smad3−/− mice display a more severe phenotype, including diminished viability and proliferation, persistently reduced mature and immature cell numbers, and delayed myelination. Collectively, these findings suggest that, in mammalian spinal cord, Tgfβ ligands and ActB together support oligodendrocyte development and myelin formation.
Computing Topological Persistence for Simplicial Maps

Algorithms for persistent homology are well-studied where homomorphisms are induced by inclusion maps. In this paper, we propose a practical algorithm for computing persistence under Z2 coefficients for a (monotone) sequence of general simplicial maps and show how these maps arise naturally in some applications of topological data analysis. A simplicial map can be decomposed into a set of elementary inclusions and vertex collapses--two atomic operations that can be supported efficiently with the notion of simplex annotations for computing persistent homology. A consistent annotation through these atomic operations implies the maintenance of a consistent cohomology basis, hence a homology basis by duality. While the idea of maintaining a cohomology basis through an inclusion is not new, maintaining them through a vertex collapse is new, which constitutes an important atomic operation for simulating simplicial maps. Annotations support the vertex collapse in addition to the usual inclusion quite naturally. Finally, we exhibit an application of this new tool in which we approximate the persistence diagram of a filtration of Rips complexes where vertex collapses are used to tame the blow-up in size.
Magnetic monopole content of hot instantons

Abstract We study the Abelian projection of an instanton in R 3 × S 1 as a function of temperature (T) and non-trivial holonomic twist (ω) of the Polyakov loop at infinity. These parameters interpolate between the circular monopole loop solution at T = 0 and the static 't Hooft-Polyakov monopole/anti-monopole pair at high temperature.
Deconstructing Privacy: And Putting It Back Together Again

It is a common conceit of academic writing to insist that progress in some given area of law or political theory is hampered by hopeless confusion over the meaning of certain standard terms. My usual attitude toward such claims is one of passionate rejection. Because the English language has served us well for such a long period of time, I bring a strong presumption of distrust to any claim of the conceptual poverty of ordinary language. The persistent fears of lack of understanding are in general refuted by the success of communication in ordinary life, as measured by the coordination of human behavior that language facilitates.
Data-driven estimation in equilibrium using inverse optimization

Equilibrium modeling is common in a variety of fields such as game theory and transportation science. The inputs for these models, however, are often difficult to estimate, while their outputs, i.e., the equilibria they are meant to describe, are often directly observable. By combining ideas from inverse optimization with the theory of variational inequalities, we develop an efficient, data-driven technique for estimating the parameters of these models from observed equilibria. We use this technique to estimate the utility functions of players in a game from their observed actions and to estimate the congestion function on a road network from traffic count data. A distinguishing feature of our approach is that it supports both parametric and nonparametric estimation by leveraging ideas from statistical learning (kernel methods and regularization operators). In computational experiments involving Nash and Wardrop equilibria in a nonparametric setting, we find that a) we effectively estimate the unknown demand or congestion function, respectively, and b) our proposed regularization technique substantially improves the out-of-sample performance of our estimators.
Nanophononic Metamaterial: Thermal Conductivity Reduction by Local Resonance

We present the concept of a locally resonant nanophononic metamaterial for thermoelectric energy conversion. Our configuration, which is based on a silicon thin film with a periodic array of pillars erected on one or two of the free surfaces, qualitatively alters the base thin-film phonon spectrum due to a hybridization mechanism between the pillar local resonances and the underlying atomic lattice dispersion. Using an experimentally fitted lattice-dynamics-based model, we conservatively predict the metamaterial thermal conductivity to be as low as 50% of the corresponding uniform thin-film value despite the fact that the pillars add more phonon modes to the spectrum.
Scalable Background-Limited Polarization-Sensitive Detectors for mm-wave Applications

We report on the status and development of polarization-sensitive detectors for millimeter-wave applications. The detectors are fabricated on single-crystal silicon, which functions as a low-loss dielectric substrate for the microwave circuitry as well as the supporting membrane for the Transition-Edge Sensor (TES) bolometers. The orthomode transducer (OMT) is realized as a symmetric structure and on-chip filters are employed to define the detection bandwidth. A hybridized integrated enclosure reduces the high-frequency THz mode set that can couple to the TES bolometers. An implementation of the detector architecture at Q-band achieves 90% efficiency in each polarization. The design is scalable in both frequency coverage, 30-300 GHz, and in number of detectors with uniform characteristics. Hence, the detectors are desirable for ground-based or space-borne instruments that require large arrays of efficient background-limited cryogenic detectors.
On the Habitable Zones of Circumbinary Planetary Systems

The effect of the stellar flux on exoplanetary systems is becoming an increasingly important property as more planets are discovered in the habitable zone (HZ). The Kepler mission has recently uncovered circumbinary planets with relatively complex HZs due to the combined flux from the binary host stars. Here, we derive HZ boundaries for circumbinary systems and show their dependence on the stellar masses, separation, and time while accounting for binary orbital motion and the orbit of the planet. We include stability regimes for planetary orbits in binary systems with respect to the HZ. These methods are applied to several of the known circumbinary planetary systems such as Kepler-16, 34, 35, and 47. We also quantitatively show the circumstances under which single-star approximations break down for HZ calculations.
Interface-Flattening Transform for EM Field Modeling in Tilted, Cylindrically Stratified Geophysical Media

We propose and investigate an “interface-flattening” transformation, hinging upon transformation optics (TO) techniques, to facilitate the rigorous analysis of electromagnetic (EM) fields radiated by sources embedded in tilted, cylindrically layered geophysical media. Our method addresses the major challenge in such problems of appropriately approximating the domain boundaries in the computational model while, in a full-wave manner, predicting the effects of tilting in the layers. When incorporated into standard pseudo-analytical algorithms, moreover, the proposed method is quite robust, as it is not limited by absorption, anisotropy, and/or eccentering profile of the cylindrical geophysical formations, nor is it limited by the radiation frequency. These attributes of the proposed method are in contrast to past analysis methods for tilted-layer media that often place limitations on the source and medium characteristics. Through analytical derivations as well as a preliminary numerical investigation, we analyze and discuss the method's strengths and limitations.
Measurement of Noisy Absorption Lines Using the Apparent Optical Depth Technique

To measure the column densities of interstellar and intergalactic gas clouds using absorption-line spectroscopy, the apparent optical depth (AOD) technique of Savage & Sembach can be used instead of a curve-of-growth analysis or profile fit. We show that the AOD technique, while an excellent tool when applied to data with good signal-to-noise ratio (S/N), will likely overestimate the true column densities when applied to data with low S/N. This overestimation results from the nonlinear relationship between the flux falling on a given detector pixel and the apparent optical depth in that pixel. We use Monte Carlo techniques to investigate the amplitude of this overestimation when working with data from the Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) and the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS), for a range of values of S/N, line depth, line width, and rebinning. AOD measurements of optimally sampled, resolved lines are accurate to within 10% for FUSE LiF and STIS E140M data with S/N 7 per resolution element.
Synthesis of 7α-substituted androstenediones by a 1,4-conjugate addition approach

Abstract Oxidation of enol lactone 9 with Pd(OAc)2 gave enone 8, which underwent stereoselective 1,4-conjugate addition with a series of cuprates affording the 7α-ketones 10–12 in excellent yield. Subsequent saponification and cyclization gave enol lactones 13–15, which can be transformed into the testosterone derivatives by treatment with 2.1 eq of LiCH2P(O)(OMe)2.
Eigenvalue Inclusion Principles for Distributed Gyroscopic Systems

Several inclusion principles have been presented for distributed gyroscopic systems under pointwise, non dissipative constraints. When a distributed gyroscopic system is modified with an added spring (or a lumped mass), its natural frequencies will increase (or decrease), and alternate with those of the unmodified system.
GALOIS GROUPS OF SCHUBERT PROBLEMS VIA HOMOTOPY COMPUTATION

Numerical homotopy continuation of solutions to polynomial equations is the foundation for numerical algebraic geometry, whose development has been driven by applications of mathematics. We use numerical homotopy continuation to investigate the problem in pure mathematics of determining Galois groups in the Schubert calculus. For example, we show by direct computation that the Galois group of the Schubert problem of 3-planes in ℂ 8 meeting 15 fixed 5-planes non-trivially is the full symmetric group S 6006 .
Structure and physical properties of BaCuTeF

The compound BaCuTeF has been prepared by using high-temperature reaction methods, and its structure has been established via Rietveld refinement of powder X-ray diffraction data. It crystallizes in the tetragonal space group P4/nmm (No. 129) with Z=2, a=4.4297 (1), c=9.3706 (1) A, and V=183.87 (1) A{sup 3}; refinement residuals include R {sub p}/wR {sub p}/R {sub Bragg} (%)=6.72/4.42/5.72. A band gap of 2.3 eV is estimated from wavelength-dependent diffuse reflectance measurements. Room-temperature conductivities of pressed pellets are 6-8 S/cm, and variable-temperature Seebeck and electrical-conductivity measurements reveal p-type degenerate semiconductor behavior. - Graphical abstract: The telluride fluoride BaCuTeF has been synthesized and structurally characterized through Rietveld refinement of X-ray diffraction data. It crystallizes in the tetragonal structure of LaCuOS. Optical and transport measurements have been used to establish the material as a degenerate p-type semiconductor with a band gap near 2.3 eV.
Solarization of heliostat glasses

Abstract We have observed a solar-induced decrease in Fe2+ absorption in heliostat glasses from the solar furnace at Odeillo, France. This decrease occurs throughout the sample (not just at the exposed surface) and is of sufficient magnitude to result in an increase of 2.5% in solar transmittance in a period of nine years. Optical and ESR studies did not detect a corresponding increase in Fe3+ concentration. The implication of these results on a microscopic model for the observed solarization is discussed. Solar simulation studies produced effects of magnitude and sign similar to those observed in the field exposed samples, and appear to offer an attractive means for screening samples for solarization tendencies.
Molecular targeting of Alzheimer's amyloid plaques for contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging

Smart molecular probes for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes are expected to provide quantum advances in clinical medicine and biomedical research. We describe such a probe that targets amyloid plaques of Alzheimer's disease and has been labelled with gadolinium to impart contrast detectable by magnetic resonance imaging. Although amyloid plaques are a primary pathologic feature of Alzheimer's disease and amyloid reduction is a major therapeutic objective in Alzheimer's disease, no method currently exists for directly imaging human amyloid plaques in vivo. However, with the aid of a target specific contrast agent, imaging of amyloid plaques is theoretically possible with magnetic resonance imaging. We describe experiments proving that three essential properties exist in the smart molecular probe, putrescine-gadolinium-AB peptide: (1) transport across the blood–brain barrier following intravenous injection conferred by the polyamine moiety (2) binding to plaques with high affinity by putrescine-AB, and (3) magnetic resonance imaging contrast by gadolinium. The plaque-to-background tissue contrast-to-noise ratio was enhanced more than 9 fold in all regions of cortex and hippocampus following intravenous administration of putrescine-gadolinium-AB in Alzheimer's disease transgenic mice. The ability of this magnetic resonance contrast probe to image plaques in vivo may enable early diagnosis and also provide a direct measure of the efficacy of antiamyloid therapies currently being developed. With the appropriate target specific probe (e.g. antibody), this technique could be applied to many other central nervous system disorders and targets.
More Than Just a Barrier: Urothelium as a Drug Target for Urinary Bladder Pain

Although the urinary bladder urothelium has classically been thought of as a passive barrier to ions/solutes, a number of novel properties have been recently attributed to these cells. Studies have revealed that the urothelium is involved in sensory mechanisms (i.e., ability to express a number of sensor molecules or respond to thermal, mechanical, and chemical stimuli) and can release chemical mediators. Localization of afferent nerves next to the urothelium suggests these cells may be targets for transmitters released from bladder nerves or that chemicals released by urothelial cells may alter afferent excitability. Taken together, these and other findings highlighted in this review suggest a sensory function for the urothelium. Elucidation of mechanisms impacting on urothelial function may provide insights into the pathology of bladder dysfunction.
Integrated iterative equalization for ARQ systems

In this paper, a new approach is presented to enhance receiver performance for ARQ communication systems that use systematic codes in rapidly-changing environments. This new approach involves a simple modification to the traditional turbo-equalizer by integrating multiple ARQ transmissions for joint equalization of systematic codewords. This modification provides a computationally efficient joint receiver that improves frame error rates and throughput when compared with a few other simple approaches. To analyze the receiver, simulation results are presented for two types of systematic codes: recursive systematic codes (RSC) and low-density parity check codes (LDPC). Results are also presented for a hybrid ARQ system where subsequent transmissions contain only portions of the original transmission.
Engineered polymeric IR-transparent protective coatings

This paper describes a novel infrared (IR)-transparent polymer engineered at Texas Instruments to protect IR windows. The polymer has greater than 80% transmission in the 8- to 12-micrometer range and can be combined with antireflection coatings to yield highly transparent IR window systems. The novel molecular structure of the polymer imparts a high, in-plane elastic modulus/strength to the coating, yet produces a lower-modulus material perpendicular to the plane. This very inexpensive coating can protect any IR window from both supersonic normal-incidence waterdrop erosion and damage by 200-mph blowing sand.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Quasars in the COSMOS Field

We obtained medium-resolution spectra of 336 quasar candidates in the COSMOS HST Treasury field using the MMT 6.5 m telescope and the Hectospec multiobject spectrograph. Candidates were drawn from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) DR1 catalog using quasar flags set by the SDSS multicolor quasar target selection algorithm. In this paper we present our discovery spectra from 1.39 deg2 (69.5% of the COSMOS field) and a discussion of the selection method and yields. We confirmed 95 quasars, including at least two BAL quasars; 80 of these are new quasars that do not appear in previous quasar confirmation follow-up studies. The candidates additionally included 184 compact emission-line galaxies, a third of which are likely type 2 AGNs, and 12 stars. The quasars span a range in magnitude of 18.3 < g < 22.5 and a range in redshift of 0.2 < z < 2.3. Our results are consistent with a lower limit quasar surface density from SDSS color selection of 102 deg-2 down to g = 22.5 over the entire COSMOS field. This work is the first step toward the eventual goal of setting up a grid of quasar absorption line probes of the 2 deg2 field and of conducting a complete census of supermassive black holes in this well-studied survey region. The total quasar count at the conclusion of this study is 139, making COSMOS one of the most densely sampled regions of sky where a grid of quasar sight lines can be used to probe the intervening volume.
The functionalization of saturated hydrocarbons. Part 25. Ionic substitution reactions in GoAggIV chemistry: the formation of carbon-halogen bonds

Abstract GoAgg IV chemistry (Fe (III) species, tert -butyl hydroperoxide in a mixture of pyridine and acetic acid) in the presence of LiCl can transform saturated hydrocarbons efficiently into the corresponding alkyl chlorides. The transformation into monosubstituted alkyl derivatives by “ionic trapping” reagents arising from the interception of the first intermediate of the system supports the presence of a high valent V Fe-C species. Mechanistic studies suggest a possible pathway operating via an Fe-centered ligand coupling. In addition, the production of alkyl chlorides and alkyl bromides could also be achieved employing this system in the presence of halogenating reagents such as CCl 4 and BrCCl 3 .
The use of MDSplus on NSTX at PPPL

Abstract The MDSplus data acquisition system has been used successfully since the 1999 startup of NSTX for control, data acquisition and analysis for diagnostic subsystems. For each plasma “shot” on NSTX about 75 MBs of data is acquired and loaded into MDSplus hierarchical data structures in 2–3 min. Physicists adapted to the MDSplus software tools with no real difficulty. Some locally developed tools are described. The support from the developers at MIT was timely and insightful. The use of MDSplus has resulted in significant cost savings for NSTX.
Real-time value-driven diagnosis

Diagnosis is often thought of as an isolated task in theoretical reasoning (reasoning with the goal of updating our beliefs about the world). We present a decision-theoretic interpretation of diagnosis as a task in practical reasoning (reasoning with the goal of acting in the world), and sketch components of our approach to this task. These components include an abstract problem description, a decision-theoretic model of the basic task, a set of inference methods suitable for evaluating the decision representation in real-time, and a control architecture to provide the needed continuing coordination between the agent and its environment. A principal contribution of this work is the representation and inference methods we have developed, which extend previously available probabilistic inference methods and narrow, somewhat, the gap between probabilistic and logical models of diagnosis.
Simulation of a theta line-scanning confocal microscope

We describe a 2-D computational model of the optical propagation of coherent light from a laser diode within human skin to better understand the performance of a confocal reflectance theta microscope. The simulation uses finite-difference time domain (FDTD) computations to solve Maxwell's equations in a synthetic skin model that includes melanin, mitochondria, and nuclei. The theta line-scanning confocal microscope configuration experiences more localized decreases in the signal than the confocal common-path point-scanning microscope. We hypothesize that these decreases result from the bistatic imaging configuration, the imaging geometry, and the inhomogeneity of the index of refraction of the skin. All these factors result in the source path having aberrations different than those of the receiver path. The model predicts signal decreases that are somewhat greater than those seen in experiments. New details on the reflection from a spherical object show that imaging with the theta line scanner leads to somewhat different results than would be seen with a common-path point scanner. The model is used to optimize the design of the theta line-scanning confocal microscope.