Study of solar array switching power management technology for space power system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cassinelli, J. E.

1982-01-01

This report documents work performed on the Solar Array Switching Power Management Study. Mission characteristics for three missions were defined to the depth necessary to determine their power management requirements. Solar array switching concepts which could satisfy the mission requirements were identified. The switching concepts were compared with a conventional buck regulator system for cost, weight and volume, reliability, efficiency and thermal control. Solar array switching provided significant advantages in all areas of comparison for the reviewed missions.

Intelligent biointerface: remote control for hydrophilic-hydrophobic property of the material surfaces by temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okano, Teruo; Kikuchi, Akihiko

1996-04-01

Considerable research attention has been focused recently on materials which change their structure and properties in response to external stimuli. These materials, termed `intelligent materials', sense a stimulus as a signal (sensor function), judge the magnitude of this signal (processor function), and then alter their function in direct response (effector function). Introduction of stimuli-responsive polymers as switching sequences into both artificial materials and bioactive molecules would permit external, stimuli-induced modulation of their structures and `on-off' switching of their respective functions at molecular levels. Intelligent materials embodying these concepts would contribute to the establishment of basic principles for fabricating novel systems which modulate their structural changes and functional changes in response to external stimuli. These materials are attractive not only as new, sophisticated biomaterials but also for utilization in protein biotechnology, medical diagnosis and advanced site-specific drug delivery system.

Innovative architecture of switching device for expanding the applications in fiber to the home (FTTH)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahmoud, Mohamed; Fayed, Heba A.; Aly, Moustafa H.; Aboul Seoud, A. K.

2011-08-01

A new device, optical cross add drop multiplexer (OXADM), is proposed and analyzed. It uses the combination concept of optical add drop multiplexer (OADM) and optical cross connect (OXC). It enables a wavelength switch while implementing add and drop functions simultaneously. So, it expands the applications in fiber to the home (FTTH) and optical core networks. A very high isolation crosstalk level (~ 60 dB) is achieved. Also, a bidirectional OXADM and N×N OXADM are proposed. Finally, a multistage OXADM is presented making some sort of wavelength buffering. To make these devices operate more efficient, tunable fiber Bragg gratings (TFBGs) switches are used to control the operation mechanism.

ASDTIC control and standardized interface circuits applied to buck, parallel and buck-boost dc to dc power converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schoenfeld, A. D.; Yu, Y.

1973-01-01

Versatile standardized pulse modulation nondissipatively regulated control signal processing circuits were applied to three most commonly used dc to dc power converter configurations: (1) the series switching buck-regulator, (2) the pulse modulated parallel inverter, and (3) the buck-boost converter. The unique control concept and the commonality of control functions for all switching regulators have resulted in improved static and dynamic performance and control circuit standardization. New power-circuit technology was also applied to enhance reliability and to achieve optimum weight and efficiency.

Development of preliminary design concept for multifunction display and control system for Orbiter crew station. Task 3: Concept analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spiger, R. J.; Farrell, R. J.; Holcomb, G. A.

1982-01-01

The access schema developed to access both individual switch functions as well as automated or semiautomated procedures for the orbital maneuvering system and electrical power and distribution and control system discussed and the operation of the system is described. Feasibility tests and analyses used to define display parameters and to select applicable hardware choices for use in such a system are presented and the results are discussed.

Spacecraft IF switch matrix for wideband service applications in 30/20 GHz communications satellite systems: Proof-of-concept model, executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ho, P. T.; Coban, E.; Pelose, J.

1983-01-01

The design and development of a unique coupler crossbar 20 x 20 microwave switch matrix are described. The test results of the proof of concept model that meets the requirements for a high speed satellite switched, time division multiple access (SS-TDMA) system are presented.

A low-g electrostatically actuated resonant switch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramini, A.; Younis, M. I.; Su, Q. T.

2013-02-01

This work investigates a new concept of an electrostatically actuated resonant switch (EARS) for earthquake detection and low-g seismic applications. The resonator is designed to operate close to the instability bands of frequency-response curves, where it is forced to collapse dynamically (pull-in) if operated within these bands. By careful tuning, the resonator can be made to enter the pull-in instability zone upon the detection of the earthquake signal, thereby snapping down as an electric switch. Such a switching action can be functionalized for alarming purposes or can be used to activate a network of sensors for seismic activity recording. The EARS is modeled and its dynamic response is simulated using a nonlinear single-degree-of-freedom model. Experimental investigation is conducted demonstrating the EARS’ capability of being triggered at small levels of acceleration as low as 0.02g. Results for the switching events for several levels of low-g accelerations using both theory and experiments are presented and compared.

Enhancement of Spin-transfer torque switching via resonant tunneling

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chatterji, Niladri; Tulapurkar, Ashwin A.; Muralidharan, Bhaskaran

We propose the use of resonant tunneling as a route to enhance the spin-transfer torque switching characteristics of magnetic tunnel junctions. The proposed device structure is a resonant tunneling magnetic tunnel junction based on a MgO-semiconductor heterostructure sandwiched between a fixed magnet and a free magnet. Using the non-equilibrium Green's function formalism coupled self consistently with the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert-Slonczewski equation, we demonstrate enhanced tunnel magneto-resistance characteristics as well as lower switching voltages in comparison with traditional trilayer devices. Two device designs based on MgO based heterostructures are presented, where the physics of resonant tunneling leads to an enhanced spin transfer torquemore » thereby reducing the critical switching voltage by up to 44%. It is envisioned that the proof-of-concept presented here may lead to practical device designs via rigorous materials and interface studies.« less

Low-Crosstalk Composite Optical Crosspoint Switches

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pan, Jing-Jong; Liang, Frank

1993-01-01

Composite optical switch includes two elementary optical switches in tandem, plus optical absorbers. Like elementary optical switches, composite optical switches assembled into switch matrix. Performance enhanced by increasing number of elementary switches. Advantage of concept: crosstalk reduced to acceptably low level at moderate cost of doubling number of elementary switches rather than at greater cost of tightening manufacturing tolerances and exerting more-precise control over operating conditions.

Final Engineering Report - Phase I HYCOS (Hydraulic Check Out System)

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-07-30

34 Shock Strut Pressure/Level Concept 37 35 Pressure vs Temperature Variation 40 36 Temperature Compensated Pressure Switch (Concept) 41 37...Temperature Compensated Pressure Switch (NEO-DYNE) ... 42 38 Deslccant Saturation Monitor 43 39 HIAC Model PC-120 Contamination Monitor 44 40...variables. If a thermal compensated pressure switch is utilized which has the same operating slope as the ideal gaa, then a low charge can be

Series-Connected Buck Boost Regulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Birchenough, Arthur G.

2005-01-01

A series-connected buck boost regulator (SCBBR) is an electronic circuit that bucks a power-supply voltage to a lower regulated value or boosts it to a higher regulated value. The concept of the SCBBR is a generalization of the concept of the SCBR, which was reported in "Series-Connected Boost Regulators" (LEW-15918), NASA Tech Briefs, Vol. 23, No. 7 (July 1997), page 42. Relative to prior DC-voltage-regulator concepts, the SCBBR concept can yield significant reductions in weight and increases in power-conversion efficiency in many applications in which input/output voltage ratios are relatively small and isolation is not required, as solar-array regulation or battery charging with DC-bus regulation. Usually, a DC voltage regulator is designed to include a DC-to-DC converter to reduce its power loss, size, and weight. Advances in components, increases in operating frequencies, and improved circuit topologies have led to continual increases in efficiency and/or decreases in the sizes and weights of DC voltage regulators. The primary source of inefficiency in the DC-to-DC converter portion of a voltage regulator is the conduction loss and, especially at high frequencies, the switching loss. Although improved components and topology can reduce the switching loss, the reduction is limited by the fact that the converter generally switches all the power being regulated. Like the SCBR concept, the SCBBR concept involves a circuit configuration in which only a fraction of the power is switched, so that the switching loss is reduced by an amount that is largely independent of the specific components and circuit topology used. In an SCBBR, the amount of power switched by the DC-to-DC converter is only the amount needed to make up the difference between the input and output bus voltage. The remaining majority of the power passes through the converter without being switched. The weight and power loss of a DC-to-DC converter are determined primarily by the amount of power processed. In the SCBBR, the unswitched majority of the power is passed through with very little power loss, and little if any increase in the sizes of the converter components is needed to enable the components to handle the unswitched power. As a result, the power-conversion efficiency of the regulator can be very high, as shown in the example of Figure 1. A basic SCBBR includes a DC-to-DC converter (see Figure 2). The switches and primary winding of a transformer in the converter is connected across the input bus, while the secondary winding and switches are connected in series with the output bus, so that the output voltage is the sum of the input voltage and the secondary voltage of the converter. In the breadboard SCBBR, the input voltage applied to the primary winding is switched by use of metal oxide/semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) in a full bridge circuit; the secondary winding is center-tapped, with two MOSFET switches and diode rectifiers connected in opposed series in each leg. The sets of opposed switches and rectifiers are what enable operation in either a boost or a buck mode. In the boost mode, input voltage and current, and the output voltage and current are all positive; that is, the secondary voltage is added to the input voltage and the net output voltage can be regulated at a value equal or greater than the input voltage. In the buck mode, input voltage is still positive and the current still flows in the same direction in the secondary, but the switches are controlled such that some power flows from the secondary to the primary. The voltage across the secondary and the current into the primary are reversed. The result is that the output voltage is lower than the input voltage, and some power is recirculated from the converter secondary back to the input. Quantitatively, the advantage of an SCBBR is a direct function of the regulation range required. If, for example, a regulation range of 20 percent is required for a 500-W supply, th it suffices to design the DC-to-DC converter in the SCBBR for a power rating of only 100 W. The switching loss and size are much smaller than those of a conventional regulator that must be rated for switching of all 500 W. The reduction in size and the increase in efficiency are not directly proportional to switched-power ratio of 5:1 because the additional switches contribute some conduction loss and the input and output filters must be larger than those typically required for a 100-W converter. Nevertheless, the power loss and the size can be much smaller than those of a 500-W converter.

Designing field-controllable graphene-dot-graphene single molecule switches: A quantum-theoretical proof-of-concept under realistic operating conditions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pejov, Ljupčo, E-mail: ljupcop@pmf.ukim.mk; Petreska, Irina; Kocarev, Ljupčo

2015-12-28

A theoretical proof of the concept that a particularly designed graphene-based moletronics device, constituted by two semi-infinite graphene subunits, acting as source and drain electrodes, and a central benzenoid ring rotator (a “quantum dot”), could act as a field-controllable molecular switch is outlined and analyzed with the density functional theory approach. Besides the ideal (0 K) case, we also consider the operation of such a device under realistic operating (i.e., finite-temperature) conditions. An in-depth insight into the physics behind device controllability by an external field was gained by thorough analyses of the torsional potential of the dot under various conditionsmore » (absence or presence of an external gating field with varying strength), computing the torsional correlation time and transition probabilities within the Bloembergen-Purcell-Pound formalism. Both classical and quantum mechanical tunneling contributions to the intramolecular rotation were considered in the model. The main idea that we put forward in the present study is that intramolecular rotors can be controlled by the gating field even in cases when these groups do not possess a permanent dipole moment (as in cases considered previously by us [I. Petreska et al., J. Chem. Phys. 134, 014708-1–014708-12 (2011)] and also by other groups [P. E. Kornilovitch et al., Phys. Rev. B 66, 245413-1–245413-7 (2002)]). Consequently, one can control the molecular switching properties by an external electrostatic field utilizing even nonpolar intramolecular rotors (i.e., in a more general case than those considered so far). Molecular admittance of the currently considered graphene-based molecular switch under various conditions is analyzed employing non-equilibrium Green’s function formalism, as well as by analysis of frontier molecular orbitals’ behavior.« less

Verifying different-modality properties for concepts produces switching costs.

PubMed

Pecher, Diane; Zeelenberg, René; Barsalou, Lawrence W

2003-03-01

According to perceptual symbol systems, sensorimotor simulations underlie the representation of concepts. It follows that sensorimotor phenomena should arise in conceptual processing. Previous studies have shown that switching from one modality to another during perceptual processing incurs a processing cost. If perceptual simulation underlies conceptual processing, then verifying the properties of concepts should exhibit a switching cost as well. For example, verifying a property in the auditory modality (e.g., BLENDER-loud) should be slower after verifying a property in a different modality (e.g., CRANBERRIES-tart) than after verifying a property in the same modality (e.g., LEAVES-rustling). Only words were presented to subjects, and there were no instructions to use imagery. Nevertheless, switching modalities incurred a cost, analogous to the cost of switching modalities in perception. A second experiment showed that this effect was not due to associative priming between properties in the same modality. These results support the hypothesis that perceptual simulation underlies conceptual processing.

High voltage systems (tube-type microwave)/low voltage system (solid-state microwave) power distribution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nussberger, A. A.; Woodcock, G. R.

1980-01-01

SPS satellite power distribution systems are described. The reference Satellite Power System (SPS) concept utilizes high-voltage klystrons to convert the onboard satellite power from dc to RF for transmission to the ground receiving station. The solar array generates this required high voltage and the power is delivered to the klystrons through a power distribution subsystem. An array switching of solar cell submodules is used to maintain bus voltage regulation. Individual klystron dc voltage conversion is performed by centralized converters. The on-board data processing system performs the necessary switching of submodules to maintain voltage regulation. Electrical power output from the solar panels is fed via switch gears into feeder buses and then into main distribution buses to the antenna. Power also is distributed to batteries so that critical functions can be provided through solar eclipses.

Electromagnetic reprogrammable coding-metasurface holograms.

PubMed

Li, Lianlin; Jun Cui, Tie; Ji, Wei; Liu, Shuo; Ding, Jun; Wan, Xiang; Bo Li, Yun; Jiang, Menghua; Qiu, Cheng-Wei; Zhang, Shuang

2017-08-04

Metasurfaces have enabled a plethora of emerging functions within an ultrathin dimension, paving way towards flat and highly integrated photonic devices. Despite the rapid progress in this area, simultaneous realization of reconfigurability, high efficiency, and full control over the phase and amplitude of scattered light is posing a great challenge. Here, we try to tackle this challenge by introducing the concept of a reprogrammable hologram based on 1-bit coding metasurfaces. The state of each unit cell of the coding metasurface can be switched between '1' and '0' by electrically controlling the loaded diodes. Our proof-of-concept experiments show that multiple desired holographic images can be realized in real time with only a single coding metasurface. The proposed reprogrammable hologram may be a key in enabling future intelligent devices with reconfigurable and programmable functionalities that may lead to advances in a variety of applications such as microscopy, display, security, data storage, and information processing.Realizing metasurfaces with reconfigurability, high efficiency, and control over phase and amplitude is a challenge. Here, Li et al. introduce a reprogrammable hologram based on a 1-bit coding metasurface, where the state of each unit cell of the coding metasurface can be switched electrically.

The adaptation of generalist predators' diet in a multi-prey context: insights from new functional responses.

PubMed

Baudrot, Virgile; Perasso, Antoine; Fritsch, Clémentine; Giraudoux, Patrick; Raoul, Francis

2016-07-01

The ability for a generalist consumer to adapt its foraging strategy (the multi-species functional response, MSFR) is a milestone in ecology as it contributes to the structure of food webs. The trophic interaction between a generalist predator, as the red fox or the barn owl, and its prey community, mainly composed of small mammals, has been empirically and theoretically widely studied. However, the extent to which these predators adapt their diet according to both multi-annual changes in multiple prey species availability (frequency dependence) and the variation of the total prey density (density dependence) is unexplored.We provide a new general model of MSFR disentangling changes in prey preference according to variation of prey frequency (switching) and of total prey density (we propose the new concept of "rank switching"). We apply these models to two large data sets of red fox and barn owl foraging. We show that both frequency-dependent and density-dependent switching are critical properties of these two systems, suggesting that barn owl and red fox have an accurate image of the prey community in terms of frequency and absolute density. Moreover, we show that negative switching, which can lead to prey instability, is a strong property of the two systems. © 2016 by the Ecological Society of America.

Using a small hybrid pulse power transformer unit as component of a high-current opening switch for a railgun

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leung, E. M. W.; Bailey, R. E.; Michels, P. H.

1989-03-01

The hybrid pulse power transformer (HPPT) is a unique concept utilizing the ultrafast superconducting-to-normal transition process of a superconductor. When used in the form of a hybrid transformer current-zero switch (HTCS), this creates an approach in which the large, high-power, high-current opening switch in a conventional railgun system can be eliminated. This represents an innovative application of superconductivity to pulsed power conditioning required for the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI). The authors explain the working principles of a 100-KJ unit capable of switching up to 500 kA at a frequency of 0.5 Hz and with a system efficiency of greater than 90 percent. Circuit analysis using a computer code called SPICE PLUS was used to verify the HTCS concept. This concept can be scaled up to applications in the several mega-ampere levels.

Design concept for pressure switch calibrator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Slingerland, M. G.

1966-01-01

Calibrator and switch design enables pressure switches to operate under 150 g shock loads. The design employs a saturated liquid-to-vapor phase transition at constant pressure to produce a known force independent of displacement over a usable range.

How to switch on and switch off semantic priming effects for natural and artifactual categories: activation processes in category memory depend on focusing specific feature dimensions.

PubMed

Bermeitinger, Christina; Wentura, Dirk; Frings, Christian

2011-06-01

"Semantic priming" refers to the phenomenon that people react faster to target words preceded by semantically related rather than semantically unrelated words. We wondered whether momentary mind sets modulate semantic priming for natural versus artifactual categories. We interspersed a category priming task with a second task that required participants to react to either the perceptual or action features of simple geometric shapes. Focusing on perceptual features enhanced semantic priming effects for natural categories, whereas focusing on action features enhanced semantic priming effects for artifactual categories. In fact, significant priming effects emerged only for those categories thought to rely on the features activated by the second task. This result suggests that (a) priming effects depend on momentary mind set and (b) features can be weighted flexibly in concept representations; it is also further evidence for sensory-functional accounts of concept and category representation.

The Innate Immune System in Acute and Chronic Wounds

PubMed Central

MacLeod, Amanda S.; Mansbridge, Jonathan N.

2016-01-01

Significance: This review article provides an overview of the critical roles of the innate immune system to wound healing. It explores aspects of dysregulation of individual innate immune elements known to compromise wound repair and promote nonhealing wounds. Understanding the key mechanisms whereby wound healing fails will provide seed concepts for the development of new therapeutic approaches. Recent Advances: Our understanding of the complex interactions of the innate immune system in wound healing has significantly improved, particularly in our understanding of the role of antimicrobials and peptides and the nature of the switch from inflammatory to reparative processes. This takes place against an emerging understanding of the relationship between human cells and commensal bacteria in the skin. Critical Issues: It is well established and accepted that early local inflammatory mediators in the wound bed function as an immunological vehicle to facilitate immune cell infiltration and microbial clearance upon injury to the skin barrier. Both impaired and excessive innate immune responses can promote nonhealing wounds. It appears that the switch from the inflammatory to the proliferative phase is tightly regulated and mediated, at least in part, by a change in macrophages. Defining the factors that initiate the switch in such macrophage phenotypes and functions is the subject of multiple investigations. Future Directions: The review highlights processes that may be useful targets for further investigation, particularly the switch from M1 to M2 macrophages that appears to be critical as dysregulation of this switch occurs during defective wound healing. PMID:26862464

Cysteine Oxidative Post-translational Modifications: Emerging Regulation in the Cardiovascular System

PubMed Central

Chung, Heaseung S.; Wang, Sheng-Bing; Venkatraman, Vidya; Murray, Christopher I.; Van Eyk, Jennifer E.

2014-01-01

In the cardiovascular system, changes in the oxidative balance can affect many aspects of cellular physiology through redox-signaling. Depending on the magnitude, fluctuations in the cell's production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species can regulate normal metabolic processes, activate protective mechanisms, or be cytotoxic. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species can have many effects including the post-translational modification of proteins at critical cysteine (Cys) thiols. A subset can act as redox-switches, which elicit functional effects in response to changes in oxidative state. While the general concepts of redox-signaling have been established, the identity and function of many regulatory switches remains unclear. Characterizing the effects of individual modifications is the key to understanding how the cell interprets oxidative signals under physiological and pathological conditions. Here, we review the various Cys oxidative post-translational modifications (Ox-PTMs) and their ability to function as redox-switches that regulate the cell's response to oxidative stimuli. In addition, we discuss how these modifications have the potential to influence other post-translational modifications' signaling pathways though cross-talk. Finally, we review the growing number of tools being developed to identify and quantify the various Cys Ox-PTMs and how this will advance our understanding of redox-regulation. PMID:23329793

Optical switching using IP protocol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Utreras, Andres J.; Gusqui, Luis; Reyes, Andres; Mena, Ricardo I.; Licenko, Gennady L.; Amirgaliyev, Yedilkhan; Komada, Paweł; Luganskaya, Saule; Kashaganova, Gulzhan

2017-08-01

To understand and evaluate the Optical Layer, and how it will affect the IP protocols over WDM (Switching), the present analyse is proposed. Optical communications have attractive proprieties, but also have some disadvantages, so the challenge is to combine the best of both branches. In this paper, general concepts for different options of switching are reviewed as: optical burst switching (OBS) and automatically switching optical network (ASON). Specific details such as their architectures are also discussed. In addition, the relevant characteristics of each variation for switching are reviewed.

Code Switching and Code Superimposition in Music. Working Papers in Sociolinguistics, No. 63.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Slobin, Mark

This paper illustrates how the sociolinguistic concept of code switching applies to the use of different styles of music. The two bases for the analogy are Labov's definition of code-switching as "moving from one consistent set of co-occurring rules to another," and the finding of sociolinguistics that code switching tends to be part of…

Shape-Memory Hydrogels: Evolution of Structural Principles To Enable Shape Switching of Hydrophilic Polymer Networks.

PubMed

Löwenberg, Candy; Balk, Maria; Wischke, Christian; Behl, Marc; Lendlein, Andreas

2017-04-18

The ability of hydrophilic chain segments in polymer networks to strongly interact with water allows the volumetric expansion of the material and formation of a hydrogel. When polymer chain segments undergo reversible hydration depending on environmental conditions, smart hydrogels can be realized, which are able to shrink/swell and thus alter their volume on demand. In contrast, implementing the capacity of hydrogels to switch their shape rather than volume demands more sophisticated chemical approaches and structural concepts. In this Account, the principles of hydrogel network design, incorporation of molecular switches, and hydrogel microstructures are summarized that enable a spatially directed actuation of hydrogels by a shape-memory effect (SME) without major volume alteration. The SME involves an elastic deformation (programming) of samples, which are temporarily fixed by reversible covalent or physical cross-links resulting in a temporary shape. The material can reverse to the original shape when these molecular switches are affected by application of a suitable stimulus. Hydrophobic shape-memory polymers (SMPs), which are established with complex functions including multiple or reversible shape-switching, may provide inspiration for the molecular architecture of shape-memory hydrogels (SMHs), but cannot be identically copied in the world of hydrophilic soft materials. For instance, fixation of the temporary shape requires cross-links to be formed also in an aqueous environment, which may not be realized, for example, by crystalline domains from the hydrophilic main chains as these may dissolve in presence of water. Accordingly, dual-shape hydrogels have evolved, where, for example, hydrophobic crystallizable side chains have been linked into hydrophilic polymer networks to act as temperature-sensitive temporary cross-links. By incorporating a second type of such side chains, triple-shape hydrogels can be realized. Considering the typically given light permeability of hydrogels and the fully hydrated state with easy permeation by small molecules, other types of stimuli like light, pH, or ions can be employed that may not be easily used in hydrophobic SMPs. In some cases, those molecular switches can respond to more than one stimulus, thus increasing the number of opportunities to induce actuation of these synthetic hydrogels. Beyond this, biopolymer-based hydrogels can be equipped with a shape switching function when facilitating, for example, triple helix formation in proteins or ionic interactions in polysaccharides. Eventually, microstructured SMHs such as hybrid or porous structures can combine the shape-switching function with an improved performance by helping to overcome frequent shortcomings of hydrogels such as low mechanical strength or volume change upon temporary cross-link cleavage. Specifically, shape switching without major volume alteration is possible in porous SMHs by decoupling small volume changes of pore walls on the microscale and the macroscopic sample size. Furthermore, oligomeric rather than short aliphatic side chains as molecular switches allow stabilization of the sample volumes. Based on those structural principles and switching functionalities, SMHs have already entered into applications as soft actuators and are considered, for example, for cell manipulation in biomedicine. In the context of those applications, switching kinetics, switching forces, and reversibility of switching are aspects to be further explored.

Concept of an interlaced phased array for beam switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reddy, C. A.; Janardhanan, K. V.; Mukundan, K. K.; Shenoy, K. S. V.

1990-04-01

A novel concept is described for feeding and phasing a large linear array of N antenna elements using only three or five feed points and phase shifters and still achieving beam switching. The idea consists of drastically reducing the number of input points by interlacing a small number of serially fed subarrays which are suitably phased. This so-called interlaced phased array (IPA) concept was tested using an array of 15 four-element Yagi antennas with a spacing equal to 0.8 wavelengths and found feasible. Some of the distinct advantages of the IPA in comparison with a conventional system of beam switching are reduced power loss, reduced phasing errors, reduced cost, increased reliability resulting from greatly reduced number of phase shifters, and better symmetry of off-zenith beams.

A proposal for an SDN-based SIEPON architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khalili, Hamzeh; Sallent, Sebastià; Piney, José Ramón; Rincón, David

2017-11-01

Passive Optical Network (PON) elements such as Optical Line Terminal (OLT) and Optical Network Units (ONUs) are currently managed by inflexible legacy network management systems. Software-Defined Networking (SDN) is a new networking paradigm that improves the operation and management of networks. In this paper, we propose a novel architecture, based on the SDN concept, for Ethernet Passive Optical Networks (EPON) that includes the Service Interoperability standard (SIEPON). In our proposal, the OLT is partially virtualized and some of its functionalities are allocated to the core network management system, while the OLT itself is replaced by an OpenFlow (OF) switch. A new MultiPoint MAC Control (MPMC) sublayer extension based on the OpenFlow protocol is presented. This would allow the SDN controller to manage and enhance the resource utilization, flow monitoring, bandwidth assignment, quality-of-service (QoS) guarantees, and energy management of the optical network access, to name a few possibilities. The OpenFlow switch is extended with synchronous ports to retain the time-critical nature of the EPON network. OpenFlow messages are also extended with new functionalities to implement the concept of EPON Service Paths (ESPs). Our simulation-based results demonstrate the effectiveness of the new architecture, while retaining a similar (or improved) performance in terms of delay and throughput when compared to legacy PONs.

Development of a microwave 20 x 20 switch matrix for 30/20 GHz SS-TDMA application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cory, B. J.; Berkowitz, M.; Wallis, R.; Schiavone, A.; Shieh, D.; Campbell, J.

1982-01-01

The design and fabrication of a 3-8 GHz, 20 x 20 Satellite Switched-Time Division Multiple Access IF switch matrix applicable to a 30/20 GHz communications satellite are described. An assessment of switch architecture in 1980 concluded that the GaAs FET-based coupled crossbar switch matrix, incorporating high speed CMOS LSI logic for switch crosspoint addressing, would be the optimum technology available for communications satellite switching by 1982. This assessment was based on such factors as switching speed, bandwidth, off-state isolation, and reliability, over a 10-year mission life. A proof-of-concept model's construction and testing are presented.

Integrating DC/DC Conversion with Possible Reconfiguration within Submodule Solar Photovoltaic Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Peter Jen-Hung

This research first proposes a method to merge photovoltaic (PV) cells or PV panels within the internal components DC-DC converters. The purpose of this merged structure is to reconfigure the PV modules between series and parallel connections using high switching frequencies (hundreds of kHz). This leads to multi-levels of voltages and currents that become applied to the output filter of the converter. Further, this research introduces a concept of a switching cell that utilizes the reconfiguration of series and parallel connections in DC-DC converters. The switching occurs at high switching frequency and the switches can be integrated to be within the solar panels or in between the solar cells. The concept is generalized and applied to basic buck and boost topologies. As examples of the new types of converters: reconfigurable PV-buck and PV-boost converter topologies are presented. It is also possible to create other reconfigurable power converters: non-isolated and isolated topologies. Analysis, simulation and experimental verification for the reconfigurable PV-buck and PV-boost converters are presented extensively to illustrate proof of concept. Benefits and drawbacks of the new approach are discussed. The second part of this research proposes to utilize the internal solar cell capacitance and internal solar module wire parasitic inductances to replace the input capacitor and filter inductor in boost derived DC-DC converters for energy harvesting applications. High switching frequency (MHz) hard switched and resonant boost converters are proposed. Their analysis, simulation and experimental prototypes are presented. A specific proof-of-concept application is especially tested for foldable PV panels, which are known for their high internal wire inductance. The experimental converters successfully boost solar module voltage without adding any external input capacitance or filter inductor. Benefits and drawbacks of new proposed PV submodule integrated boost converters are discussed.

The excludon: a new concept in bacterial antisense RNA-mediated gene regulation.

PubMed

Sesto, Nina; Wurtzel, Omri; Archambaud, Cristel; Sorek, Rotem; Cossart, Pascale

2013-02-01

In recent years, non-coding RNAs have emerged as key regulators of gene expression. Among these RNAs, the antisense RNAs (asRNAs) are particularly abundant, but in most cases the function and mechanism of action for a particular asRNA remains elusive. Here, we highlight a recently discovered paradigm termed the excludon, which defines a genomic locus encoding an unusually long asRNA that spans divergent genes or operons with related or opposing functions. Because these asRNAs can inhibit the expression of one operon while functioning as an mRNA for the adjacent operon, they act as fine-tuning regulatory switches in bacteria.

Repetitive switching for an electromagnetic rail gun

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gruden, J. M.

1983-12-01

Previous testing on a repetitive opening switch for inductive energy storage has proved the feasibility of the rotary switch concept. The concept consists of a rotating copper disk (rotor) with a pie-shaped insulator section and brushes which slide along each of the rotor surfaces. While on top of the copper surface, the brushes and rotor conduct current allowing the energy storage inductor to charge. When the brushes slide onto the insulator section, the current cannot pass through the rotor and is diverted into the load. This study investigates two new brush designs and a rotor modification designed to improve the current commutating capabilities of the switch. One brush design (fringe fiber) employs carbon fibers on the leading and trailing edge of the brush to increase the resistive commutating action as the switch opens and closes. The other brush design uses fingers to conduct current to the rotor surface, effectively increasing the number of brush contact points. The rotor modification was the placement of tungsten inserts at the copper-insulator interfaces.

A prototype to automate the video subsystem routing for the video distribution subsystem of Space Station Freedom

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Betz, Jessie M. Bethly

1993-12-01

The Video Distribution Subsystem (VDS) for Space Station Freedom provides onboard video communications. The VDS includes three major functions: external video switching; internal video switching; and sync and control generation. The Video Subsystem Routing (VSR) is a part of the VDS Manager Computer Software Configuration Item (VSM/CSCI). The VSM/CSCI is the software which controls and monitors the VDS equipment. VSR activates, terminates, and modifies video services in response to Tier-1 commands to connect video sources to video destinations. VSR selects connection paths based on availability of resources and updates the video routing lookup tables. This project involves investigating the current methodology to automate the Video Subsystem Routing and developing and testing a prototype as 'proof of concept' for designers.

Light-controlled plasmon switching using hybrid metal-semiconductor nanostructures.

PubMed

Paudel, Hari P; Leuenberger, Michael N

2012-06-13

We present a proof of concept for the dynamic control over the plasmon resonance frequencies in a hybrid metal-semiconductor nanoshell structure with Ag core and TiO(2) coating. Our method relies on the temporary change of the dielectric function ε of TiO(2) achieved through temporarily generated electron-hole pairs by means of a pump laser pulse. This change in ε leads to a blue shift of the Ag surface plasmon frequency. We choose TiO(2) as the environment of the Ag core because the band gap energy of TiO(2) is larger than the Ag surface plasmon energy of our nanoparticles, which allows the surface plasmon being excited without generating electron-hole pairs in the environment at the same time. We calculate the magnitude of the plasmon resonance shift as a function of electron-hole pair density and obtain shifts up to 126 nm at wavelengths around 460 nm. Using our results, we develop the model of a light-controlled surface plasmon polariton switch.

Spacecraft in switch matrix for wide band service applicatons in 30/20 GHz communications satellite systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cory, B. J.

1982-01-01

Bandwidth, switching speed, off-state isolation, and reliability over a ten-year mission were factors in determining the optimum available technology for satellite communications switching in 1982. A proof of concept model for a 20 x 20 coupled crossbar switch matrix designed with FET devices for microwave switching and with high speed CMOS LIS for switch crosspoint addressing was fabricated and tested. Results show the design is feasible for application in a multichannel SS-TDMA communications system. Expandibility can readily be achieved with this design. A conceptual design study for a 100 x 100 switch matrix utilizing a coupled crossbar architecture implemented with a monolithic microwave integrated circuits revealed technology needs for high capacity switch matrices.

A dynamic data source selection system for smartwatch platform.

PubMed

Nemati, Ebrahim; Sideris, Konstantinos; Kalantarian, Haik; Sarrafzadeh, Majid

2016-08-01

A novel data source selection algorithm is proposed for ambulatory activity tracking of elderly people. The algorithm introduces the concept of dynamic switching between the data collection modules (a smartwatch and a smartphone) to improve accuracy and battery life using contextual information. We show that by making offloading decisions as a function of activity, the proposed algorithm improves power consumption and accuracy of the previous work by 7 hours and 5% respectively compared to the baseline.

Theory and Implementation of a VLSI Stray Insensitive Switched Capacitor Composite Operational Amplifier

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-01

to the simulations, we get a proof of correct concept that matches the mathematical foundation of the microchip. 108 Vill. APPLICATIONS A. WHERE AND...ORGANIZATION (if applicable ) 8c. ADDRESS (City, State, and ZIP Code) 10. SOURCE OF FUNDING NUMBERS Ivogru Elewwn No. Pro8a No. Task No. Wor Unit Acess L...necessary and identify by block number) ’ FIELD GROUP SUBGROUP Mathematical derivation of circuit transfer functions, Composite Operational Amplifiers

Monocular Stereo Measurement Using High-Speed Catadioptric Tracking

PubMed Central

Hu, Shaopeng; Matsumoto, Yuji; Takaki, Takeshi; Ishii, Idaku

2017-01-01

This paper presents a novel concept of real-time catadioptric stereo tracking using a single ultrafast mirror-drive pan-tilt active vision system that can simultaneously switch between hundreds of different views in a second. By accelerating video-shooting, computation, and actuation at the millisecond-granularity level for time-division multithreaded processing in ultrafast gaze control, the active vision system can function virtually as two or more tracking cameras with different views. It enables a single active vision system to act as virtual left and right pan-tilt cameras that can simultaneously shoot a pair of stereo images for the same object to be observed at arbitrary viewpoints by switching the direction of the mirrors of the active vision system frame by frame. We developed a monocular galvano-mirror-based stereo tracking system that can switch between 500 different views in a second, and it functions as a catadioptric active stereo with left and right pan-tilt tracking cameras that can virtually capture 8-bit color 512×512 images each operating at 250 fps to mechanically track a fast-moving object with a sufficient parallax for accurate 3D measurement. Several tracking experiments for moving objects in 3D space are described to demonstrate the performance of our monocular stereo tracking system. PMID:28792483

Simulator comparison of thumball, thumb switch, and touch screen input concepts for interaction with a large screen cockpit display format

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Denise R.; Parrish, Russell V.

1990-01-01

A piloted simulation study was conducted comparing three different input methods for interfacing to a large screen, multiwindow, whole flight deck display for management of transport aircraft systems. The thumball concept utilized a miniature trackball embedded in a conventional side arm controller. The multifunction control throttle and stick (MCTAS) concept employed a thumb switch located in the throttle handle. The touch screen concept provided data entry through a capacitive touch screen installed on the display surface. The objective and subjective results obtained indicate that, with present implementations, the thumball concept was the most appropriate for interfacing with aircraft systems/subsystems presented on a large screen display. Not unexpectedly, the completion time differences between the three concepts varied with the task being performed, although the thumball implementation consistently outperformed the other two concepts. However, pilot suggestions for improved implementations of the MCTAS and touch screen concepts could reduce some of these differences.

A High Pressure Flowing Oil Switch For Gigawatt, Repetitive Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-06-01

for testing the high pressure switch concept under repetitive pulse conditions is a 4.8 Ω, 70 ns water pulse forming line (PFL). The water PFL is...Cox Instruments. A pair of Hedland variable area flow sensors monitored relative flow rates in the two oil lines that fed the high pressure switch . High... pressure switch was tested under both single shot and repetitive conditions over a range of pressures, flow rates and temperatures. The primary

Bi-Frequency Modulated Quasi-Resonant Converters: Theory and Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yuefeng

1995-01-01

To avoid the variable frequency operation of quasi -resonant converters, many soft-switching PWM converters have been proposed, all of them require an auxiliary switch, which will increase the cost and complexity of the power supply system. In this thesis, a new kind of technique for quasi -resonant converters has been proposed, which is called the bi-frequency modulation technique. By operating the quasi-resonant converters at two switching frequencies, this technique enables quasi-resonant converters to achieve the soft-switching, at fixed switching frequencies, without an auxiliary switch. The steady-state analysis of four commonly used quasi-resonant converters, namely, ZVS buck, ZCS buck, ZVS boost, and ZCS boost converter has been presented. Using the concepts of equivalent sources, equivalent sinks, and resonant tank, the large signal models of these four quasi -resonant converters were developed. Based on these models, the steady-state control characteristics of BFM ZVS buck, BFM ZCS buck, BFM ZVS boost, and BFM ZCS boost converter have been derived. The functional block and design consideration of the bi-frequency controller were presented, and one of the implementations of the bi-frequency controller was given. A complete design example has been presented. Both computer simulations and experimental results have verified that the bi-frequency modulated quasi-resonant converters can achieve soft-switching, at fixed switching frequencies, without an auxiliary switch. One of the application of bi-frequency modulation technique is for EMI reduction. The basic principle of using BFM technique for EMI reduction was introduced. Based on the spectral analysis, the EMI performances of the PWM, variable-frequency, and bi-frequency modulated control signals was evaluated, and the BFM control signals show the lowest EMI emission. The bi-frequency modulated technique has also been applied to the power factor correction. A BFM zero -current switching boost converter has been designed for the power factor correction, and the simulation results show that the power factor has been improved.

Applications of a new mass-driver concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oneill, G. K.

1981-01-01

A description of the operating principles and requirements of a novel mass-driver concept is presented. The design obtains acceleration of payload bucket coils by means of transverse focussing from strong, off-axis restoring forces that are produced by drive coils operating in a 'pull-only' mode. The concept offers the unprecedented possibility of operating high-performance mass-drivers entirely within the limitations of existing commercial switching devices, such as silicon-controlled rectifiers, spark gaps, vacuum-triggered arcs or vacuum mechanical switches. Representative applications of the concept described are: (1) a large-diameter magnetic lunar launcher for payloads having autonomous maneuvering; (2) an intermediate-diameter launcher with long operational life; and (3) a reaction engine for orbit transfer of large, massive objects.

Current Concept and Update of the Macrophage Plasticity Concept: Intracellular Mechanisms of Reprogramming and M3 Macrophage “Switch” Phenotype

PubMed Central

Malyshev, Igor; Malyshev, Yuri

2015-01-01

Macrophages play a key role in immunity. In this review, we consider the traditional notion of macrophage plasticity, data that do not fit into existing concepts, and a hypothesis for existence of a new switch macrophage phenotype. Depending on the microenvironment, macrophages can reprogram their phenotype toward the proinflammatory M1 phenotype or toward the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Macrophage reprogramming involves well-coordinated changes in activities of signalling and posttranslational mechanisms. Macrophage reprogramming is provided by JNK-, PI3K/Akt-, Notch-, JAK/STAT-, TGF-β-, TLR/NF-κB-, and hypoxia-dependent pathways. Posttranscriptional regulation is based on micro-mRNA. We have hypothesized that, in addition to the M1 and M2 phenotypes, an M3 switch phenotype exists. This switch phenotype responds to proinflammatory stimuli with reprogramming towards the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype or, contrarily, it responds to anti-inflammatory stimuli with reprogramming towards the proinflammatory M1 phenotype. We have found signs of such a switch phenotype in lung diseases. Understanding the mechanisms of macrophage reprogramming will assist in the selection of new therapeutic targets for correction of impaired immunity. PMID:26366410

Flight Test Evaluation of Airborne Tire Pressure Indicating Systems.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-09-01

System (Concept J, Part I Report) This system employs a wheel This system was the best mounted pressure switch the thought out and implemented state of...which is detected across system of its type with an air gap by a rotating coil excellent electror.ic and passing by a statiorery coil pressure switch designs...Pressure Low tire pressure is sensed by a The supplier of this pressure switch in wheel. hardware built a four wheel Pressure switch shorts secondary

Functionally-interdependent shape-switching nanoparticles with controllable properties

PubMed Central

Halman, Justin R.; Satterwhite, Emily; Roark, Brandon; Chandler, Morgan; Viard, Mathias; Ivanina, Anna; Bindewald, Eckart; Kasprzak, Wojciech K.; Panigaj, Martin; Bui, My N.; Lu, Jacob S.; Miller, Johann; Khisamutdinov, Emil F.; Shapiro, Bruce A.; Dobrovolskaia, Marina A.

2017-01-01

Abstract We introduce a new concept that utilizes cognate nucleic acid nanoparticles which are fully complementary and functionally-interdependent to each other. In the described approach, the physical interaction between sets of designed nanoparticles initiates a rapid isothermal shape change which triggers the activation of multiple functionalities and biological pathways including transcription, energy transfer, functional aptamers and RNA interference. The individual nanoparticles are not active and have controllable kinetics of re-association and fine-tunable chemical and thermodynamic stabilities. Computational algorithms were developed to accurately predict melting temperatures of nanoparticles of various compositions and trace the process of their re-association in silico. Additionally, tunable immunostimulatory properties of described nanoparticles suggest that the particles that do not induce pro-inflammatory cytokines and high levels of interferons can be used as scaffolds to carry therapeutic oligonucleotides, while particles with strong interferon and mild pro-inflammatory cytokine induction may qualify as vaccine adjuvants. The presented concept provides a simple, cost-effective and straightforward model for the development of combinatorial regulation of biological processes in nucleic acid nanotechnology. PMID:28108656

All-Graphene Planar Self-Switching MISFEDs, Metal-Insulator-Semiconductor Field-Effect Diodes

PubMed Central

Al-Dirini, Feras; Hossain, Faruque M.; Nirmalathas, Ampalavanapillai; Skafidas, Efstratios

2014-01-01

Graphene normally behaves as a semimetal because it lacks a bandgap, but when it is patterned into nanoribbons a bandgap can be introduced. By varying the width of these nanoribbons this band gap can be tuned from semiconducting to metallic. This property allows metallic and semiconducting regions within a single Graphene monolayer, which can be used in realising two-dimensional (2D) planar Metal-Insulator-Semiconductor field effect devices. Based on this concept, we present a new class of nano-scale planar devices named Graphene Self-Switching MISFEDs (Metal-Insulator-Semiconductor Field-Effect Diodes), in which Graphene is used as the metal and the semiconductor concurrently. The presented devices exhibit excellent current-voltage characteristics while occupying an ultra-small area with sub-10 nm dimensions and an ultimate thinness of a single atom. Quantum mechanical simulation results, based on the Extended Huckel method and Nonequilibrium Green's Function Formalism, show that a Graphene Self-Switching MISFED with a channel as short as 5 nm can achieve forward-to-reverse current rectification ratios exceeding 5000. PMID:24496307

On/off switching of capillary vessel flow controls mitochondrial and glycolysis pathways for energy production.

PubMed

Abo, Toru; Watanabe, Mayumi; Tomiyama, Chikako; Kanda, Yasuhiro

2014-07-01

Capillary vessel flow in the base of the fingernail can be observed by microscopy. This flow is switched off under some conditions, such as coldness, surprise, and anger and is switched on again under other conditions, such as warming, relaxation, and mild exercise. In other words, capillary vessels perform two functions: switching flow on and off. It is speculated that the switch-off function is necessary to direct energy production to the glycolysis pathway, while the switch-on function is necessary for the mitochondrial pathway. This is because glycolysis takes place under anaerobic conditions, while oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria proceeds under aerobic conditions in the body. To switch off circulation, the negative electric charges on the surface of erythrocytes and the capillary wall may be decreased by stimulation of the sympathetic nerves and secretion of steroid hormones. Negative charge usually acts as repulsive force between erythrocytes and between erythrocytes and the capillary wall. By decreasing the negative charge, erythrocytes can aggregate and also adhere to the capillary wall. These behaviors may be related to the capillary flow switch-off function. Here, it is emphasized that the capillary vessels possess not only a switch-on function but also a switch-off function for circulation. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

RF MEMS microswitches design and characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lafontan, Xavier; Dufaza, Christian; Robert, Michel; Perez, Guy; Pressecq, Francis

2000-08-01

This paper presents the work performed in MUMPs on RF MEMS micro-switch. Concepts, design and characterization of switches are studied. The study particularly focuses on the electrical resistance characterization and modelization. The switches developed uses two different principle: overflowed gold and hinged beam. The realized contacts exhibited high on resistance (~20(Omega) ) due to nanoscopics asperities of contacts and insulating interfacial films. Results of a typical contact cleaning method are also presented.

An acoustic switch.

PubMed

Vanhille, Christian; Campos-Pozuelo, Cleofé

2014-01-01

The benefits derived from the development of acoustic transistors which act as switches or amplifiers have been reported in the literature. Here we propose a model of acoustic switch. We theoretically demonstrate that the device works: the input signal is totally restored at the output when the switch is on whereas the output signal nulls when the switch is off. The switch, on or off, depends on a secondary acoustic field capable to manipulate the main acoustic field. The model relies on the attenuation effect of many oscillating bubbles on the main travelling wave in the liquid, as well as on the capacity of the secondary acoustic wave to move the bubbles. This model evidences the concept of acoustic switch (transistor) with 100% efficiency. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

dc analysis and design of zero-voltage-switched multi-resonant converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tabisz, Wojciech A.; Lee, Fred C.

Recently introduced multiresonant converters (MRCs) provide zero-voltage switching (ZVS) of both active and passive switches and offer a substantial reduction of transistor voltage stress and an increase of load range, compared to their quasi-resonant converter counterparts. Using the resonant switch concept, a simple, generalized analysis of ZVS MRCs is presented. The conversion ratio and voltage stress characteristics are derived for basic ZVS MRCs, including buck, boost, and buck/boost converters. Based on the analysis, a design procedure that optimizes the selection of resonant elements for maximum conversion efficiency is proposed.

Ultrafast optomechanical pulse picking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lilienfein, Nikolai; Holzberger, Simon; Pupeza, Ioachim

2017-01-01

State-of-the-art optical switches for coupling pulses into and/or out of resonators are based on either the electro-optic or the acousto-optic effect in transmissive elements. In high-power applications, the damage threshold and other nonlinear and thermal effects in these elements impede further improvements in pulse energy, duration, and average power. We propose a new optomechanical switching concept which is based solely on reflective elements and is suitable for switching times down to the ten-nanosecond range. To this end, an isolated section of a beam path is moved in a system comprising mirrors rotating at a high angular velocity and stationary imaging mirrors, without affecting the propagation of the beam thereafter. We discuss three variants of the concept and exemplify practical parameters for its application in regenerative amplifiers and stack-and-dump enhancement cavities. We find that optomechanical pulse picking has the potential to achieve switching rates of up to a few tens of kilohertz while supporting pulse energies of up to several joules.

Reduction of Tribocorrosion Products When using the Platform-Switching Concept.

PubMed

Alrabeah, G O; Knowles, J C; Petridis, H

2018-03-01

The reduced marginal bone loss observed when using the platform-switching concept may be the result of reduced amounts of tribocorrosion products released to the peri-implant tissues. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the tribocorrosion product release from various platform-matched and platform-switched implant-abutment couplings under cyclic loading. Forty-eight titanium implants were coupled with pure titanium, gold alloy, cobalt-chrome alloy, and zirconia abutments forming either platform-switched or platform-matched groups ( n = 6). The specimens were subjected to cyclic occlusal forces in a wet acidic environment for 24 h followed by static aqueous immersion for 6 d. The amount of metal ions released was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Microscopic evaluations were performed pre- and postimmersion under scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy-dispersive spectroscopy X-ray for corrosion assessment at the interface and wear particle characterization. All platform-switched groups showed less metal ion release compared with their platform-matched counterparts within each abutment material group ( P < 0.001). Implants connected to platform-matched cobalt-chrome abutments demonstrated the highest total mean metal ion release (218 ppb), while the least total mean ion release (11 ppb) was observed in the implants connected to platform-switched titanium abutments ( P ≤ 0.001). Titanium was released from all test groups, with its highest mean release (108 ppb) observed in the implants connected to platform-matched gold abutments ( P < 0.001). SEM images showed surface tribocorrosion features such as pitting and bands of fretting scars. Wear particles were mostly titanium, ranging from submicron to 48 µm in length. The platform-matched groups demonstrated a higher amount of metal ion release and more surface damage. These findings highlight the positive effect of the platform-switching concept in the reduction of tribocorrosion products released from dental implants, which consequently may minimize the adverse tissue reactions that lead to peri-implant bone loss.

Highly flexible and electroforming free resistive switching behavior of tungsten disulfide flakes fabricated through advanced printing technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muqeet Rehman, Muhammad; Uddin Siddiqui, Ghayas; Doh, Yang Hoi; Choi, Kyung Hyun

2017-09-01

Tungsten disulfide (WS2) is a transition metal dichalcogenide that differs from other 2D materials such as graphene owing to its distinctive semiconducting nature and tunable band gap. In this study, we have reported the structural, electrical, physical, and mechanical properties of exfoliated WS2 flakes and used them as the functional layer of a rewritable bipolar memory device. We demonstrate this concept by sandwiching few-layered WS2 flakes between two silver (Ag) electrodes on a flexible and transparent PET substrate. The entire device fabrication was carried out through all-printing technology such as reverse offset printing for patterning bottom electrodes, electrohydrodynamic (EHD) atomization for depositing functional thin film and EHD patterning for depositing the top electrode respectively. The memory device was further encapsulated with an atomically thin layer of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), deposited through a spatial atmospheric atomic layer deposition system to protect it against a humid environment. Remarkable resistive switching results were obtained, such as nonvolatile bipolar behavior, a high switching ratio (∼103), a long retention time (∼105 s), high endurance (1500 voltage sweeps), a low operating voltage (∼2 V), low current compliance (50 μA), mechanical robustness (1500 cycles) and unique repeatability at ambient conditions. Ag/WS2/Ag-based memory devices offer a new possibility for integration in flexible electronic devices.

Novel switching method for single-phase NPC three-level inverter with neutral-point voltage control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, June-Seok; Lee, Seung-Joo; Lee, Kyo-Beum

2018-02-01

This paper proposes a novel switching method with the neutral-point voltage control in a single-phase neutral-point-clamped three-level inverter (SP-NPCI) used in photovoltaic systems. A proposed novel switching method for the SP-NPCI improves the efficiency. The main concept is to fix the switching state of one leg. As a result, the switching loss decreases and the total efficiency is improved. In addition, it enables the maximum power-point-tracking operation to be performed by applying the proposed neutral-point voltage control algorithm. This control is implemented by modifying the reference signal. Simulation and experimental results provide verification of the performance of a novel switching method with the neutral-point voltage control.

Quantifying the risk-reduction potential of new Modified Risk Tobacco Products.

PubMed

Martin, Florian; Vuillaume, Gregory; Baker, Gizelle; Sponsiello-Wang, Zheng; Ricci, Paolo F; Lüdicke, Frank; Weitkunat, Rolf

2018-02-01

Quantitative risk assessment of novel Modified Risk Tobacco Products (MRTP) must rest on indirect measurements that are indicative of disease development prior to epidemiological data becoming available. For this purpose, a Population Health Impact Model (PHIM) has been developed to estimate the reduction in the number of deaths from smoking-related diseases following the introduction of an MRTP. One key parameter of the model, the F-factor, describes the effective dose upon switching from cigarette smoking to using an MRTP. Biomarker data, collected in clinical studies, can be analyzed to estimate the effects of switching to an MRTP as compared to quitting smoking. Based on transparent assumptions, a link function is formulated that translates these effects into the F-factor. The concepts of 'lack of sufficiency' and 'necessity' are introduced, allowing for a parametrization of a family of link functions. These can be uniformly sampled, thus providing different 'scenarios' on how biomarker-based evidence can be translated into the F-factor to inform the PHIM. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Switching between Everyday and Scientific Language

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blown, Eric J.; Bryce, Tom G. K.

2017-01-01

The research reported here investigated the everyday and scientific repertoires of children involved in semi-structured, Piagetian interviews carried out to check their understanding of dynamic astronomical concepts like daytime and night-time. It focused on the switching taking place between embedded and disembedded thinking; on the imagery which…

Feasibility and limitations of anti-fuses based on bistable non-volatile switches for power electronic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erlbacher, T.; Huerner, A.; Bauer, A. J.; Frey, L.

2012-09-01

Anti-fuse devices based on non-volatile memory cells and suitable for power electronic applications are demonstrated for the first time using silicon technology. These devices may be applied as stand alone devices or integrated using standard junction-isolation into application-specific and smart-power integrated circuits. The on-resistance of such devices can be permanently switched by nine orders of magnitude by triggering the anti-fuse with a positive voltage pulse. Extrapolation of measurement data and 2D TCAD process and device simulations indicate that 20 A anti-fuses with 10 mΩ can be reliably fabricated in 0.35 μm technology with a footprint of 2.5 mm2. Moreover, this concept offers distinguished added-values compared to existing mechanical relays, e.g. pre-test, temporary and permanent reset functions, gradual turn-on mode, non-volatility, and extendibility to high voltage capability.

Thermal protection for a self-sensing piezoelectric control system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simmers, Garnett E., Jr.; Sodano, Henry A.; Park, Gyuhae; Inman, Daniel J.

2007-12-01

Piezoelectric materials exhibit high electromechanical coupling that allows them to both generate an electrical signal when strained and, conversely, to produce a strain under an applied electric field. This coupling has led to the use of these materials for a variety of sensing and actuation purposes. One unique application of these materials is their use as self-sensing actuators where both the sensing and actuation functions are performed by a single patch of material. Since the actuation and sensing voltages both exist simultaneously in the piezoelectric material, a specially designed electric circuit, referred to as a bridge circuit, is required to realize the concept. Configuration of the material in this manner is advantageous for control systems due to the enhanced stability associated when collocated control is applied. While certain advantages result from this type of system, precise equilibrium of the bridge circuit is required to achieve stability. This equilibrium is easy to achieve in theory, but difficult in practice due to the thermal dependence of the piezoelectric material's dielectric constant. This study will investigate a novel method of accounting for these changes through the use of thermal switches to passively adjust the bridge circuit and maintain a balanced state. The proposed concept will be theoretically modeled and simulated in a vibration control application to identify the thermal range for stability with and without the array of switches. It will be shown that, through the use of nine thermal switches, the stable operating range can be increased by 95 °C while maintaining vibration control performance.

Incremental passivity and output regulation for switched nonlinear systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pang, Hongbo; Zhao, Jun

2017-10-01

This paper studies incremental passivity and global output regulation for switched nonlinear systems, whose subsystems are not required to be incrementally passive. A concept of incremental passivity for switched systems is put forward. First, a switched system is rendered incrementally passive by the design of a state-dependent switching law. Second, the feedback incremental passification is achieved by the design of a state-dependent switching law and a set of state feedback controllers. Finally, we show that once the incremental passivity for switched nonlinear systems is assured, the output regulation problem is solved by the design of global nonlinear regulator controllers comprising two components: the steady-state control and the linear output feedback stabilising controllers, even though the problem for none of subsystems is solvable. Two examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.

Controlling light by light with an optical event horizon.

PubMed

Demircan, A; Amiranashvili, Sh; Steinmeyer, G

2011-04-22

A novel concept for an all-optical transistor is proposed and verified numerically. This concept relies on cross-phase modulation between a signal and a control pulse. Other than previous approaches, the interaction length is extended by temporally locking control and the signal pulse in an optical event horizon, enabling continuous modification of the central wavelength, energy, and duration of a signal pulse by an up to sevenfold weaker control pulse. Moreover, if the signal pulse is a soliton it may maintain its solitonic properties during the switching process. The proposed all-optical switching concept fulfills all criteria for a useful optical transistor in [Nat. Photon. 4, 3 (2010)], in particular, fan-out and cascadability, which have previously proven as the most difficult to meet.

Study of repeater technology for advanced multifunctional communications satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

Investigations are presented concerning design concepts and implementation approaches for the satellite communication repeater subsystems of advanced multifunctional satellites. In such systems the important concepts are the use of multiple antenna beams, repeater switching (routing), and efficient spectrum utilization through frequency reuse. An information base on these techniques was developed and tradeoff analyses were made of repeater design concepts, with the work design taken in a broad sense to include modulation beam coverage patterns. There were five major areas of study: requirements analysis and processing; study of interbeam interference in multibeam systems; characterization of multiple-beam switching repeaters; estimation of repeater weight and power for a number of alternatives; and tradeoff analyses based on these weight and power data.

Can task-switching training enhance executive control functioning in children with attention deficit/-hyperactivity disorder?

PubMed

Kray, Jutta; Karbach, Julia; Haenig, Susann; Freitag, Christine

2011-01-01

The key cognitive impairments of children with attention deficit/-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) include executive control functions such as inhibitory control, task-switching, and working memory (WM). In this training study we examined whether task-switching training leads to improvements in these functions. Twenty children with combined type ADHD and stable methylphenidate medication performed a single-task and a task-switching training in a crossover training design. The children were randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group started with the single-task training and then performed the task-switching training and the other group vice versa. The effectiveness of the task-switching training was measured as performance improvements (relative to the single-task training) on a structurally similar but new switching task and on other executive control tasks measuring inhibitory control and verbal WM as well as on fluid intelligence (reasoning). The children in both groups showed improvements in task-switching, that is, a reduction of switching costs, but not in performing the single-tasks across four training sessions. Moreover, the task-switching training lead to selective enhancements in task-switching performance, that is, the reduction of task-switching costs was found to be larger after task-switching than after single-task training. Similar selective improvements were observed for inhibitory control and verbal WM, but not for reasoning. Results of this study suggest that task-switching training is an effective cognitive intervention that helps to enhance executive control functioning in children with ADHD.

Can Task-Switching Training Enhance Executive Control Functioning in Children with Attention Deficit/-Hyperactivity Disorder?

PubMed Central

Kray, Jutta; Karbach, Julia; Haenig, Susann; Freitag, Christine

2012-01-01

The key cognitive impairments of children with attention deficit/-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) include executive control functions such as inhibitory control, task-switching, and working memory (WM). In this training study we examined whether task-switching training leads to improvements in these functions. Twenty children with combined type ADHD and stable methylphenidate medication performed a single-task and a task-switching training in a crossover training design. The children were randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group started with the single-task training and then performed the task-switching training and the other group vice versa. The effectiveness of the task-switching training was measured as performance improvements (relative to the single-task training) on a structurally similar but new switching task and on other executive control tasks measuring inhibitory control and verbal WM as well as on fluid intelligence (reasoning). The children in both groups showed improvements in task-switching, that is, a reduction of switching costs, but not in performing the single-tasks across four training sessions. Moreover, the task-switching training lead to selective enhancements in task-switching performance, that is, the reduction of task-switching costs was found to be larger after task-switching than after single-task training. Similar selective improvements were observed for inhibitory control and verbal WM, but not for reasoning. Results of this study suggest that task-switching training is an effective cognitive intervention that helps to enhance executive control functioning in children with ADHD. PMID:22291628

A Novel Unit Cell for Active Switches in the Millimeter-Wave Frequency Range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Müller, Daniel; Scherer, Gunnar; Lewark, Ulrich J.; Massler, Hermann; Wagner, Sandrine; Tessmann, Axel; Leuther, Arnulf; Zwick, Thomas; Kallfass, Ingmar

2018-02-01

This paper presents a novel transistor unit cell which is intended to realize compact active switches in the high millimeter-wave frequency range. The unit cell consists of the combination of shunt and common gate transistor within a four-finger transistor cell, achieving gain in the amplifying state as well as good isolation in the isolating state. Gate width-dependent characteristics of the unit cell as well as the design of actual switch implementations are discussed in detail. To verify the concept, two switches, a single pole double throw (SPDT) switch and single pole quadruple throw (SP4T) switch, intended for the WR3 frequency range (220-325 GHz) were manufactured and characterized. The measured gain at 250 GHz is 4.6 and 2.2 dB for the SPDT and SP4T switch, respectively. An isolation of more than 24 dB for the SPDT switch and 12.8 dB for the SP4T switch was achieved.

A Mechanical Switch Using Spectral Microshifts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitchell, Gordon L.; Saaski, Elric W.; Hartl, James C.

1989-02-01

Among the simplest fiber optic sensors, are those which operate in a binary fashion; they were the first sensor types to be developed. Early experiments with fiber bundles and shutters produced demonstrations of, for example, displacement sensors. Typical applications range from position sensing for aircraft landing gear to counting objects on a production line. Because they frequently replace electrical snap action switches, binary sensors are generally called optical switches. Optical switch applications account for a much larger market than the more complex analog measurements discussed in the balance of this volume. This paper presents an optical switch concept that uses a single fiber and is tolerant of back reflections. The sensor element is a low finesse Fabry-Perot pressure sensor which replaces the electrical contact in a conventional snap action switch.

Bidirectional DC/DC Converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pedersen, F.

2008-09-01

The presented bidirectional DC/DC converter design concept is a further development of an already existing converter used for low battery voltage operation.For low battery voltage operation a high efficient low parts count DC/DC converter was developed, and used in a satellite for the battery charge and battery discharge function.The converter consists in a bidirectional, non regulating DC/DC converter connected to a discharge regulating Buck converter and a charge regulating Buck converter.The Bidirectional non regulating DC/DC converter performs with relatively high efficiency even at relatively high currents, which here means up to 35Amps.This performance was obtained through the use of power MOSFET's with on- resistances of only a few mille Ohms connected to a special transformer allowing paralleling several transistor stages on the low voltage side of the transformer. The design is patent protected. Synchronous rectification leads to high efficiency at the low battery voltages considered, which was in the range 2,7- 4,3 Volt DC.The converter performs with low switching losses as zero voltage zero current switching is implemented in all switching positions of the converter.Now, the drive power needed, to switch a relatively large number of low Ohm , hence high drive capacitance, power MOSFET's using conventional drive techniques would limit the overall conversion efficiency.Therefore a resonant drive consuming considerable less power than a conventional drive circuit was implemented in the converter.To the originally built and patent protected bidirectional non regulating DC/DC converter, is added the functionality of regulation.Hereby the need for additional converter stages in form of a Charge Buck regulator and a Discharge Buck regulator is eliminated.The bidirectional DC/DC converter can be used in connection with batteries, motors, etc, where the bidirectional feature, simple design and high performance may be useful.

Social Learning Strategies: Bridge-Building between Fields.

PubMed

Kendal, Rachel L; Boogert, Neeltje J; Rendell, Luke; Laland, Kevin N; Webster, Mike; Jones, Patricia L

2018-07-01

While social learning is widespread, indiscriminate copying of others is rarely beneficial. Theory suggests that individuals should be selective in what, when, and whom they copy, by following 'social learning strategies' (SLSs). The SLS concept has stimulated extensive experimental work, integrated theory, and empirical findings, and created impetus to the social learning and cultural evolution fields. However, the SLS concept needs updating to accommodate recent findings that individuals switch between strategies flexibly, that multiple strategies are deployed simultaneously, and that there is no one-to-one correspondence between psychological heuristics deployed and resulting population-level patterns. The field would also benefit from the simultaneous study of mechanism and function. SLSs provide a useful vehicle for bridge-building between cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and evolutionary biology. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Working memory costs of task switching.

PubMed

Liefooghe, Baptist; Barrouillet, Pierre; Vandierendonck, André; Camos, Valérie

2008-05-01

Although many accounts of task switching emphasize the importance of working memory as a substantial source of the switch cost, there is a lack of evidence demonstrating that task switching actually places additional demands on working memory. The present study addressed this issue by implementing task switching in continuous complex span tasks with strictly controlled time parameters. A series of 4 experiments demonstrate that recall performance decreased as a function of the number of task switches and that the concurrent load of item maintenance had no influence on task switching. These results indicate that task switching induces a cost on working memory functioning. Implications for theories of task switching, working memory, and resource sharing are addressed.

Electric polarization switching in an atomically thin binary rock salt structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martinez-Castro, Jose; Piantek, Marten; Schubert, Sonja; Persson, Mats; Serrate, David; Hirjibehedin, Cyrus F.

2018-01-01

Inducing and controlling electric dipoles is hindered in the ultrathin limit by the finite screening length of surface charges at metal-insulator junctions1-3, although this effect can be circumvented by specially designed interfaces4. Heterostructures of insulating materials hold great promise, as confirmed by perovskite oxide superlattices with compositional substitution to artificially break the structural inversion symmetry5-8. Bringing this concept to the ultrathin limit would substantially broaden the range of materials and functionalities that could be exploited in novel nanoscale device designs. Here, we report that non-zero electric polarization can be induced and reversed in a hysteretic manner in bilayers made of ultrathin insulators whose electric polarization cannot be switched individually. In particular, we explore the interface between ionic rock salt alkali halides such as NaCl or KBr and polar insulating Cu2N terminating bulk copper. The strong compositional asymmetry between the polar Cu2N and the vacuum gap breaks inversion symmetry in the alkali halide layer, inducing out-of-plane dipoles that are stabilized in one orientation (self-poling). The dipole orientation can be reversed by a critical electric field, producing sharp switching of the tunnel current passing through the junction.

Optical network democratization.

PubMed

Nejabati, Reza; Peng, Shuping; Simeonidou, Dimitra

2016-03-06

The current Internet infrastructure is not able to support independent evolution and innovation at physical and network layer functionalities, protocols and services, while at same time supporting the increasing bandwidth demands of evolving and heterogeneous applications. This paper addresses this problem by proposing a completely democratized optical network infrastructure. It introduces the novel concepts of the optical white box and bare metal optical switch as key technology enablers for democratizing optical networks. These are programmable optical switches whose hardware is loosely connected internally and is completely separated from their control software. To alleviate their complexity, a multi-dimensional abstraction mechanism using software-defined network technology is proposed. It creates a universal model of the proposed switches without exposing their technological details. It also enables a conventional network programmer to develop network applications for control of the optical network without specific technical knowledge of the physical layer. Furthermore, a novel optical network virtualization mechanism is proposed, enabling the composition and operation of multiple coexisting and application-specific virtual optical networks sharing the same physical infrastructure. Finally, the optical white box and the abstraction mechanism are experimentally evaluated, while the virtualization mechanism is evaluated with simulation. © 2016 The Author(s).

Enabling Resiliency Operations across Multiple Microgrids with Grid Friendly Appliance Controllers

DOE PAGES

Schneider, Kevin P.; Tuffner, Frank K.; Elizondo, Marcelo A.; ...

2017-02-16

Changes in economic, technological, and environmental policies are resulting in a re-evaluation of the dependence on large central generation facilities and their associated transmission networks. Emerging concepts of smart communities/cities are examining the potential to leverage cleaner sources of generation, as well as integrating electricity generation with other municipal functions. When grid connected, these generation assets can supplement the existing interconnections with the bulk transmission system, and in the event of an extreme event, they can provide power via a collection of microgrids. To achieve the highest level of resiliency, it may be necessary to conduct switching operations to interconnectmore » individual microgrids. While the interconnection of multiple microgrids can increase the resiliency of the system, the associated switching operations can cause large transients in low inertia microgrids. The combination of low system inertia and IEEE 1547 and 1547a-compliant inverters can prevent multiple microgrids from being interconnected during extreme weather events. This study will present a method of using end-use loads equipped with Grid Friendly™ Appliance controllers to facilitate the switching operations between multiple microgrids; operations that are necessary for optimal operations when islanded for resiliency.« less

Enabling Resiliency Operations across Multiple Microgrids with Grid Friendly Appliance Controllers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schneider, Kevin P.; Tuffner, Frank K.; Elizondo, Marcelo A.

Changes in economic, technological, and environmental policies are resulting in a re-evaluation of the dependence on large central generation facilities and their associated transmission networks. Emerging concepts of smart communities/cities are examining the potential to leverage cleaner sources of generation, as well as integrating electricity generation with other municipal functions. When grid connected, these generation assets can supplement the existing interconnections with the bulk transmission system, and in the event of an extreme event, they can provide power via a collection of microgrids. To achieve the highest level of resiliency, it may be necessary to conduct switching operations to interconnectmore » individual microgrids. While the interconnection of multiple microgrids can increase the resiliency of the system, the associated switching operations can cause large transients in low inertia microgrids. The combination of low system inertia and IEEE 1547 and 1547a-compliant inverters can prevent multiple microgrids from being interconnected during extreme weather events. This study will present a method of using end-use loads equipped with Grid Friendly™ Appliance controllers to facilitate the switching operations between multiple microgrids; operations that are necessary for optimal operations when islanded for resiliency.« less

Rational Design and Tuning of Functional RNA Switch to Control an Allosteric Intermolecular Interaction.

PubMed

Endoh, Tamaki; Sugimoto, Naoki

2015-08-04

Conformational transitions of biomolecules in response to specific stimuli control many biological processes. In natural functional RNA switches, often called riboswitches, a particular RNA structure that has a suppressive or facilitative effect on gene expression transitions to an alternative structure with the opposite effect upon binding of a specific metabolite to the aptamer region. Stability of RNA secondary structure (-ΔG°) can be predicted based on thermodynamic parameters and is easily tuned by changes in nucleobases. We envisioned that tuning of a functional RNA switch that causes an allosteric interaction between an RNA and a peptide would be possible based on a predicted switching energy (ΔΔG°) that corresponds to the energy difference between the RNA secondary structure before (-ΔG°before) and after (-ΔG°after) the RNA conformational transition. We first selected functional RNA switches responsive to neomycin with predicted ΔΔG° values ranging from 5.6 to 12.2 kcal mol(-1). We then demonstrated a simple strategy to rationally convert the functional RNA switch to switches responsive to natural metabolites thiamine pyrophosphate, S-adenosyl methionine, and adenine based on the predicted ΔΔG° values. The ΔΔG° values of the designed RNA switches proportionally correlated with interaction energy (ΔG°interaction) between the RNA and peptide, and we were able to tune the sensitivity of the RNA switches for the trigger molecule. The strategy demonstrated here will be generally applicable for construction of functional RNA switches and biosensors in which mechanisms are based on conformational transition of nucleic acids.

Modality Switching Cost during Property Verification by 7 Years of Age

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ambrosi, Solene; Kalenine, Solene; Blaye, Agnes; Bonthoux, Francoise

2011-01-01

Recent studies in neuroimagery and cognitive psychology support the view of sensory-motor based knowledge: when processing an object concept, neural systems would re-enact previous experiences with this object. In this experiment, a conceptual switching cost paradigm derived from Pecher, Zeelenberg, and Barsalou (2003, 2004) was used to…

Key concepts behind forming-free resistive switching incorporated with rectifying transport properties

PubMed Central

Shuai, Yao; Ou, Xin; Luo, Wenbo; Mücklich, Arndt; Bürger, Danilo; Zhou, Shengqiang; Wu, Chuangui; Chen, Yuanfu; Zhang, Wanli; Helm, Manfred; Mikolajick, Thomas; Schmidt, Oliver G.; Schmidt, Heidemarie

2013-01-01

This work reports the effect of Ti diffusion on the bipolar resistive switching in Au/BiFeO3/Pt/Ti capacitor-like structures. Polycrystalline BiFeO3 thin films are deposited by pulsed laser deposition at different temperatures on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates. From the energy filtered transmission electron microscopy and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry it is observed that Ti diffusion occurs if the deposition temperature is above 600°C. The current-voltage (I–V) curves indicate that resistive switching can only be achieved in Au/BiFeO3/Pt/Ti capacitor-like structures where this Ti diffusion occurs. The effect of Ti diffusion is confirmed by the BiFeO3 thin films deposited on Pt/sapphire and Pt/Ti/sapphire substrates. The resistive switching needs no electroforming process, and is incorporated with rectifying properties which is potentially useful to suppress the sneak current in a crossbar architecture. Those specific features open a promising alternative concept for nonvolatile memory devices as well as for other memristive devices like synapses in neuromorphic circuits. PMID:23860408

The bacterial flagellar switch complex is getting more complex

PubMed Central

Cohen-Ben-Lulu, Galit N; Francis, Noreen R; Shimoni, Eyal; Noy, Dror; Davidov, Yaacov; Prasad, Krishna; Sagi, Yael; Cecchini, Gary; Johnstone, Rose M; Eisenbach, Michael

2008-01-01

The mechanism of function of the bacterial flagellar switch, which determines the direction of flagellar rotation and is essential for chemotaxis, has remained an enigma for many years. Here we show that the switch complex associates with the membrane-bound respiratory protein fumarate reductase (FRD). We provide evidence that FRD binds to preparations of isolated switch complexes, forms a 1:1 complex with the switch protein FliG, and that this interaction is required for both flagellar assembly and switching the direction of flagellar rotation. We further show that fumarate, known to be a clockwise/switch factor, affects the direction of flagellar rotation through FRD. These results not only uncover a new component important for switching and flagellar assembly, but they also reveal that FRD, an enzyme known to be primarily expressed and functional under anaerobic conditions in Escherichia coli, nonetheless, has important, unexpected functions under aerobic conditions. PMID:18337747

Plasma Switch Development.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-06-08

Appendix II), the progress to date will be detailed here. II° K -BEAM CONTROLLED SWITCH The EBCS is an opening switch concept that has the potential for...such plasma in ᝺ uis. To accurately assess the viability of this scheme, more effort than what was provided to date is required. 0 00 LL k CCj2 E - w...1962 e+A* -A +A (2) ... 2OOOz t~ -- whs A is, in enera, any positive molecular ion (simple or cluster ) of species A. We define the effective rate at

Crossbar Switches For Optical Data-Communication Networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Monacos, Steve P.

1994-01-01

Optoelectronic and electro-optical crossbar switches called "permutation engines" (PE's) developed to route packets of data through fiber-optic communication networks. Basic network concept described in "High-Speed Optical Wide-Area Data-Communication Network" (NPO-18983). Nonblocking operation achieved by decentralized switching and control scheme. Each packet routed up or down in each column of this 5-input/5-output permutation engine. Routing algorithm ensures each packet arrives at its designated output port without blocking any other packet that does not contend for same output port.

Kilovolt dc solid state remote power controller development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitchell, J. T.

1982-01-01

The experience gained in developing and applying solid state power controller (SSPC) technology at high voltage dc (HVDC) potentials and power levels of up to 25 kilowatts is summarized. The HVDC switching devices, power switching concepts, drive circuits, and very fast acting overcurrent protection circuits were analyzed. A 25A bipolar breadboard with Darlington connected switching transistor was built. Fault testing at 900 volts was included. A bipolar transistor packaged breadboard design was developed. Power MOSFET remote power controller (RPC) was designed.

Built-in self-test (BIST) techniques for millimeter wave CMOS transceivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahzabeen, Tabassum

The seamless integration of complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) transceivers with a digital CMOS process enhances on-chip testability, thus reducing production and testing costs. Built in self testability also improves yield by offering on-chip compensation. This work focuses on built in self test techniques for CMOS based millimeter wave (mm-wave) transceivers. Built-in-self-test (BIST) using the loopback method is one cost-effective method for testing these transceivers. Since the loopback switch is always present during the normal operation of the transceiver, the requirement of the switch is different than for a conventional switch. The switch needs to have high isolation and high impedance during its OFF period. Two 80 GHz single pole single throw (SPST) switches have been designed, fabricated in standard CMOS process, and measured to connect the loopback path for BIST applications. The loopback switches in this work provide the required criteria for loopback BIST. A stand alone 80 GHz low noise amplifier (LNA) and the same LNA integrated with one of the loopback switches have been fabricated, and measured to observe the difference in performance when the loopback switch is present. Besides the loopback switch, substrate leakage also forms a path between the transmitter and receiver. Substrate leakage has been characterized as a function of distance between the transmitter and receiver for consideration in using the BIST method. A BIST algorithm has been developed to estimate the process variation in device sizes by probing a low frequency ring oscillator to estimate the device variation and map this variation to the 80 GHz LNA. Probing a low frequency circuit is cheaper compared to the probing of a millimeter wave circuit and reduces the testing costs. The performance of the LNA degrades due to variation in device size. Once the shift in the device size is being estimated (from the ring oscillator's shifted frequency), the LNA's performance can be recovered using several methods; for example, using tunable transmission line lengths in the amplifier or using a variable supply voltage. This concept of estimating process variation has been demonstrated in Agilent Design System (ADS).

Realization of Minimum and Maximum Gate Function in Ta2O5-based Memristive Devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Breuer, Thomas; Nielen, Lutz; Roesgen, Bernd; Waser, Rainer; Rana, Vikas; Linn, Eike

2016-04-01

Redox-based resistive switching devices (ReRAM) are considered key enablers for future non-volatile memory and logic applications. Functionally enhanced ReRAM devices could enable new hardware concepts, e.g. logic-in-memory or neuromorphic applications. In this work, we demonstrate the implementation of ReRAM-based fuzzy logic gates using Ta2O5 devices to enable analogous Minimum and Maximum operations. The realized gates consist of two anti-serially connected ReRAM cells offering two inputs and one output. The cells offer an endurance up to 106 cycles. By means of exemplary input signals, each gate functionality is verified and signal constraints are highlighted. This realization could improve the efficiency of analogous processing tasks such as sorting networks in the future.

Metamorphic Proteins: Emergence of Dual Protein Folds from One Primary Sequence.

PubMed

Lella, Muralikrishna; Mahalakshmi, Radhakrishnan

2017-06-20

Every amino acid exhibits a different propensity for distinct structural conformations. Hence, decoding how the primary amino acid sequence undergoes the transition to a defined secondary structure and its final three-dimensional fold is presently considered predictable with reasonable certainty. However, protein sequences that defy the first principles of secondary structure prediction (they attain two different folds) have recently been discovered. Such proteins, aptly named metamorphic proteins, decrease the conformational constraint by increasing flexibility in the secondary structure and thereby result in efficient functionality. In this review, we discuss the major factors driving the conformational switch related both to protein sequence and to structure using illustrative examples. We discuss the concept of an evolutionary transition in sequence and structure, the functional impact of the tertiary fold, and the pressure of intrinsic and external factors that give rise to metamorphic proteins. We mainly focus on the major components of protein architecture, namely, the α-helix and β-sheet segments, which are involved in conformational switching within the same or highly similar sequences. These chameleonic sequences are widespread in both cytosolic and membrane proteins, and these folds are equally important for protein structure and function. We discuss the implications of metamorphic proteins and chameleonic peptide sequences in de novo peptide design.

Code-Switching in English and Science Classrooms: More than Translation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Then, David Chen-On; Ting, Su-Hie

2011-01-01

The study examined the use of code-switching by English and science teachers in secondary schools in Malaysia. It focuses on the functions of code-switching in multilingual classrooms where English is the language of instruction, examining in particular the reiterative function of code-switching and its association with translation. Thirty six…

The Stay/Switch Model of Concurrent Choice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MacDonall, James S.

2009-01-01

This experiment compared descriptions of concurrent choice by the stay/switch model, which says choice is a function of the reinforcers obtained for staying at and for switching from each alternative, and the generalized matching law, which says choice is a function of the total reinforcers obtained at each alternative. For the stay/switch model…

Molecular Switch for Sub-Diffraction Laser Lithography by Photoenol Intermediate-State Cis-Trans Isomerization.

PubMed

Mueller, Patrick; Zieger, Markus M; Richter, Benjamin; Quick, Alexander S; Fischer, Joachim; Mueller, Jonathan B; Zhou, Lu; Nienhaus, Gerd Ulrich; Bastmeyer, Martin; Barner-Kowollik, Christopher; Wegener, Martin

2017-06-27

Recent developments in stimulated-emission depletion (STED) microscopy have led to a step change in the achievable resolution and allowed breaking the diffraction limit by large factors. The core principle is based on a reversible molecular switch, allowing for light-triggered activation and deactivation in combination with a laser focus that incorporates a point or line of zero intensity. In the past years, the concept has been transferred from microscopy to maskless laser lithography, namely direct laser writing (DLW), in order to overcome the diffraction limit for optical lithography. Herein, we propose and experimentally introduce a system that realizes such a molecular switch for lithography. Specifically, the population of intermediate-state photoenol isomers of α-methyl benzaldehydes generated by two-photon absorption at 700 nm fundamental wavelength can be reversibly depleted by simultaneous irradiation at 440 nm, suppressing the subsequent Diels-Alder cycloaddition reaction which constitutes the chemical core of the writing process. We demonstrate the potential of the proposed mechanism for STED-inspired DLW by covalently functionalizing the surface of glass substrates via the photoenol-driven STED-inspired process exploiting reversible photoenol activation with a polymerization initiator. Subsequently, macromolecules are grown from the functionalized areas and the spatially coded glass slides are characterized by atomic-force microscopy. Our approach allows lines with a full-width-at-half-maximum of down to 60 nm and line gratings with a lateral resolution of 100 nm to be written, both surpassing the diffraction limit.

CMOS analog switches for adaptive filters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dixon, C. E.

1980-01-01

Adaptive active low-pass filters incorporate CMOS (Complimentary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) analog switches (such as 4066 switch) that reduce variation in switch resistance when filter is switched to any selected transfer function.

The other fiber, the other fabric, the other way

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stephens, Gary R.

1993-02-01

Coaxial cable and distributed switches provide a way to configure high-speed Fiber Channel fabrics. This type of fabric provides a cost-effective alternative to a fabric of optical fibers and centralized cross-point switches. The fabric topology is a simple tree. Products using parallel busses require a significant change to migrate to a serial bus. Coaxial cables and distributed switches require a smaller technology shift for these device manufacturers. Each distributed switch permits both medium type and speed changes. The fabric can grow and bridge to optical fibers as the needs expand. A distributed fabric permits earlier entry into high-speed serial operations. For very low-cost fabrics, a distributed switch may permit a link configured as a loop. The loop eliminates half of the ports when compared to a switched point-to-point fabric. A fabric of distributed switches can interface to a cross-point switch fabric. The expected sequence of migration is: closed loops, small closed fabrics, and, finally, bridges, to connect optical cross-point switch fabrics. This paper presents the concept of distributed fabrics, including address assignment, frame routing, and general operation.

High-speed optical switch fabrics with large port count.

PubMed

Yeo, Yong-Kee; Xu, Zhaowen; Wang, Dawei; Liu, Jianguo; Wang, Yixin; Cheng, Tee-Hiang

2009-06-22

We report a novel architecture that can be used to construct optical switch fabrics with very high port count and nanoseconds switching speed. It is well known that optical switch fabrics with very fast switching time and high port count are challenging to realize. Currently, one of the most promising solutions is based on a combination of wavelength-tunable lasers and the arrayed waveguide grating router (AWGR). To scale up the number of ports in such switches, a direct method is to use AWGRs with a high channel count. However, such AWGRs introduce very large crosstalk noise due to the close wavelength channel spacing. In this paper, we propose an architecture for realizing a high-port count optical switch fabric using a combination of low-port count AWGRs, optical ON-OFF gates and WDM couplers. Using this new methodology, we constructed a proof-of concept experiment to demonstrate the feasibility of a 256 x 256 optical switch fabric. To our knowledge, this port count is the highest ever reported for switch fabrics of this type.

Influence of platform switching on bone-level alterations: a three-year randomized clinical trial.

PubMed

Enkling, N; Jöhren, P; Katsoulis, J; Bayer, S; Jervøe-Storm, P-M; Mericske-Stern, R; Jepsen, S

2013-12-01

The concept of platform switching has been introduced to implant dentistry based on clinical observations of reduced peri-implant crestal bone loss. However, published data are controversial, and most studies are limited to 12 months. The aim of the present randomized clinical trial was to test the hypothesis that platform switching has a positive impact on crestal bone-level changes after 3 years. Two implants with a diameter of 4 mm were inserted crestally in the posterior mandible of 25 patients. The intraindividual allocation of platform switching (3.3-mm platform) and the standard implant (4-mm platform) was randomized. After 3 months of submerged healing, single-tooth crowns were cemented. Patients were followed up at short intervals for monitoring of healing and oral hygiene. Statistical analysis for the influence of time and platform type on bone levels employed the Brunner-Langer model. At 3 years, the mean radiographic peri-implant bone loss was 0.69 ± 0.43 mm (platform switching) and 0.74 ± 0.57 mm (standard platform). The mean intraindividual difference was 0.05 ± 0.58 mm (95% confidence interval: -0.19, 0.29). Crestal bone-level alteration depended on time (p < .001) but not on platform type (p = .363). The present randomized clinical trial could not confirm the hypothesis of a reduced peri-implant crestal bone loss, when implants had been restored according to the concept of platform switching.

The U.S. draft guidance regarding population and individual bioequivalence approaches: comments by a research-based pharmaceutical company.

PubMed

Hauschke, D; Steinijans, V W

2000-10-30

Generally, the motivation for switching from average bioequivalence to population and/or individual bio-equivalence is well recognized in the light of certain limitations of the concept of average bioequivalence. However, this switch still results in unresolved issues which should be addressed before the regulatory guidance is finalized.

Stability of Nonlinear Systems with Unknown Time-varying Feedback Delay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chunodkar, Apurva A.; Akella, Maruthi R.

2013-12-01

This paper considers the problem of stabilizing a class of nonlinear systems with unknown bounded delayed feedback wherein the time-varying delay is 1) piecewise constant 2) continuous with a bounded rate. We also consider application of these results to the stabilization of rigid-body attitude dynamics. In the first case, the time-delay in feedback is modeled specifically as a switch among an arbitrarily large set of unknown constant values with a known strict upper bound. The feedback is a linear function of the delayed states. In the case of linear systems with switched delay feedback, a new sufficiency condition for average dwell time result is presented using a complete type Lyapunov-Krasovskii (L-K) functional approach. Further, the corresponding switched system with nonlinear perturbations is proven to be exponentially stable inside a well characterized region of attraction for an appropriately chosen average dwell time. In the second case, the concept of the complete type L-K functional is extended to a class of nonlinear time-delay systems with unknown time-varying time-delay. This extension ensures stability robustness to time-delay in the control design for all values of time-delay less than the known upper bound. Model-transformation is used in order to partition the nonlinear system into a nominal linear part that is exponentially stable with a bounded perturbation. We obtain sufficient conditions which ensure exponential stability inside a region of attraction estimate. A constructive method to evaluate the sufficient conditions is presented together with comparison with the corresponding constant and piecewise constant delay. Numerical simulations are performed to illustrate the theoretical results of this paper.

Auditory Multi-Stability: Idiosyncratic Perceptual Switching Patterns, Executive Functions and Personality Traits

PubMed Central

Farkas, Dávid; Denham, Susan L.; Bendixen, Alexandra; Tóth, Dénes; Kondo, Hirohito M.; Winkler, István

2016-01-01

Multi-stability refers to the phenomenon of perception stochastically switching between possible interpretations of an unchanging stimulus. Despite considerable variability, individuals show stable idiosyncratic patterns of switching between alternative perceptions in the auditory streaming paradigm. We explored correlates of the individual switching patterns with executive functions, personality traits, and creativity. The main dimensions on which individual switching patterns differed from each other were identified using multidimensional scaling. Individuals with high scores on the dimension explaining the largest portion of the inter-individual variance switched more often between the alternative perceptions than those with low scores. They also perceived the most unusual interpretation more often, and experienced all perceptual alternatives with a shorter delay from stimulus onset. The ego-resiliency personality trait, which reflects a tendency for adaptive flexibility and experience seeking, was significantly positively related to this dimension. Taking these results together we suggest that this dimension may reflect the individual’s tendency for exploring the auditory environment. Executive functions were significantly related to some of the variables describing global properties of the switching patterns, such as the average number of switches. Thus individual patterns of perceptual switching in the auditory streaming paradigm are related to some personality traits and executive functions. PMID:27135945

Wavelength-tunable, sub-picosecond pulses from a passively Q-switched microchip laser system.

PubMed

Lehneis, R; Steinmetz, A; Limpert, J; Tünnermann, A

2013-07-15

We present a novel concept to generate sub-picosecond pulses from a passively Q-switched Nd:YVO4 microchip laser system with an adjustable wavelength shift up to a few tens of nanometers around the original emission wavelength of 1064 nm. This concept comprises two stages: one that carries out a nonlinear compression of fiber-amplified microchip pulses and a subsequent stage in which the compressed pulses are coupled into a further waveguide structure followed by a bandpass filter. In a proof-of-principle experiment, pedestal-free 0.62 ps long pulses have been demonstrated with a wavelength shift to 1045 nm.

Baseband processor development for the Advanced Communications Satellite Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moat, D.; Sabourin, D.; Stilwell, J.; Mccallister, R.; Borota, M.

1982-01-01

An onboard-baseband-processor concept for a satellite-switched time-division-multiple-access (SS-TDMA) communication system was developed for NASA Lewis Research Center. The baseband processor routes and controls traffic on an individual message basis while providing significant advantages in improved link margins and system flexibility. Key technology developments required to prove the flight readiness of the baseband-processor design are being verified in a baseband-processor proof-of-concept model. These technology developments include serial MSK modems, Clos-type baseband routing switch, a single-chip CMOS maximum-likelihood convolutional decoder, and custom LSL implementation of high-speed, low-power ECL building blocks.

Phase change material based tunable reflectarray for free-space optical inter/intra chip interconnects.

PubMed

Zou, Longfang; Cryan, Martin; Klemm, Maciej

2014-10-06

The concept of phase change material (PCM) based optical antennas and antenna arrays is proposed for dynamic beam shaping and steering utilized in free-space optical inter/intra chip interconnects. The essence of this concept lies in the fact that the behaviour of PCM based optical antennas will change due to the different optical properties of the amorphous and crystalline state of the PCM. By engineering optical antennas or antenna arrays, it is feasible to design dynamic optical links in a desired manner. In order to illustrate this concept, a PCM based tunable reflectarray is proposed for a scenario of a dynamic optical link between a source and two receivers. The designed reflectarray is able to switch the optical link between two receivers by switching the two states of the PCM. Two types of antennas are employed in the proposed tunable reflectarray to achieve full control of the wavefront of the reflected beam. Numerical studies show the expected binary beam steering at the optical communication wavelength of 1.55 μm. This study suggests a new research area of PCM based optical antennas and antenna arrays for dynamic optical switching and routing.

Voluntary switching between identities in dissociative identity disorder: A functional MRI case study.

PubMed

Savoy, R L; Frederick, B B; Keuroghlian, A S; Wolk, P C

2012-01-01

Patients who suffer from dissociative identity disorder present unique scientific and clinical challenges for psychology and psychiatry. We have been fortunate in working with a patient who-while undergoing functional MRI-can switch rapidly and voluntarily between her main personality (a middle-aged, high-functioning woman) and an alternate personality (a 4-6-year-old girl). A unique task was designed to isolate the processes occurring during the switches between these personalities. Data are from two imaging sessions, conducted months apart, each showing the same activated areas during switches between these personalities. The activated areas include the following: the primary sensory and motor cortex, likely associated with characteristic facial movements made during switching; the nucleus accumbens bilaterally, possibly associated with aspects of reward connected with switching; and prefrontal sites, presumably associated with the executive control involved in the switching of personalities.

Medicare Part D Beneficiaries' Plan Switching Decisions and Information Processing.

PubMed

Han, Jayoung; Urmie, Julie

2017-03-01

Medicare Part D beneficiaries tend not to switch plans despite the government's efforts to engage beneficiaries in the plan switching process. Understanding current and alternative plan features is a necessary step to make informed plan switching decisions. This study explored beneficiaries' plan switching using a mixed-methods approach, with a focus on the concept of information processing. We found large variation in beneficiary comprehension of plan information among both switchers and nonswitchers. Knowledge about alternative plans was especially poor, with only about half of switchers and 2 in 10 nonswitchers being well informed about plans other than their current plan. We also found that helpers had a prominent role in plan decision making-nearly twice as many switchers as nonswitchers worked with helpers for their plan selection. Our study suggests that easier access to helpers as well as helpers' extensive involvement in the decision-making process promote informed plan switching decisions.

Optimal control of switching time in switched stochastic systems with multi-switching times and different costs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xiaomei; Li, Shengtao; Zhang, Kanjian

2017-08-01

In this paper, we solve an optimal control problem for a class of time-invariant switched stochastic systems with multi-switching times, where the objective is to minimise a cost functional with different costs defined on the states. In particular, we focus on problems in which a pre-specified sequence of active subsystems is given and the switching times are the only control variables. Based on the calculus of variation, we derive the gradient of the cost functional with respect to the switching times on an especially simple form, which can be directly used in gradient descent algorithms to locate the optimal switching instants. Finally, a numerical example is given, highlighting the validity of the proposed methodology.

Active full-shell grazing-incidence optics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roche, Jacqueline M.; Elsner, Ronald F.; Ramsey, Brian D.; O'Dell, Stephen L.; Kolodziejczak, Jeffrey J.; Weisskopf, Martin C.; Gubarev, Mikhail V.

2016-09-01

MSFC has a long history of developing full-shell grazing-incidence x-ray optics for both narrow (pointed) and wide field (surveying) applications. The concept presented in this paper shows the potential to use active optics to switch between narrow and wide-field geometries, while maintaining large effective area and high angular resolution. In addition, active optics has the potential to reduce errors due to mounting and manufacturing lightweight optics. The design presented corrects low spatial frequency error and has significantly fewer actuators than other concepts presented thus far in the field of active x-ray optics. Using a finite element model, influence functions are calculated using active components on a full-shell grazing-incidence optic. Next, the ability of the active optic to effect a change of optical prescription and to correct for errors due to manufacturing and mounting is modeled.

Active Full-Shell Grazing-Incidence Optics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, Jacqueline M.; Elsner, Ronald F.; Ramsey, Brian D.; O'Dell, Stephen L.; Kolodziejczak, Jeffery; Weisskopf, Martin C.; Gubarev, Mikhail V.

2016-01-01

MSFC has a long history of developing full-shell grazing-incidence x-ray optics for both narrow (pointed) and wide field (surveying) applications. The concept presented in this paper shows the potential to use active optics to switch between narrow and wide-field geometries, while maintaining large effective area and high angular resolution. In addition, active optics has the potential to reduce errors due to mounting and manufacturing lightweight optics. The design presented corrects low spatial frequency error and has significantly fewer actuators than other concepts presented thus far in the field of active x-ray optics. Using a finite element model, influence functions are calculated using active components on a full-shell grazing-incidence optic. Next, the ability of the active optic to effect a change of optical prescription and to correct for errors due to manufacturing and mounting is modeled.

Integrally regulated solar array demonstration using an Intel 8080 microprocessor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Petrik, E. J.

1977-01-01

A concept for regulating the voltage of a solar array by using a microprocessor to effect discrete voltage changes was demonstrated. Eight shorting switches were employed to regulate a simulated array at set-point voltages between 10,000 and 15,000 volts. The demonstration showed that the microprocessor easily regulated the solar array output voltage independently of whether or not the switched cell groups were binary sized in voltage. In addition, the microprocessor provided logic memory capability to perform additional tasks such as locating and insolating a faulty switch.

Optical programmable metamaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gong, Cheng; Zhang, Nan; Dai, Zijie; Liu, Weiwei

2018-02-01

We suggest and demonstrate the concept of optical programmable metamaterials which can configure the device's electromagnetic parameters by the programmable optical stimuli. In such metamaterials, the optical stimuli produced by a FPGA controlled light emitting diode array can switch or combine the resonance modes which are coupled in. As an example, an optical programmable metamaterial terahertz absorber is proposed. Each cell of the absorber integrates four meta-rings (asymmetric 1/4 rings) with photo-resistors connecting the critical gaps. The principle and design of the metamaterials are illustrated and the simulation results demonstrate the functionalities for programming the metamaterial absorber to change its bandwidth and resonance frequency.

Advanced solar energy conversion. [solar pumped gas lasers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, J. H.

1981-01-01

An atomic iodine laser, a candidate for the direct solar pumped lasers, was successfully excited with a 4 kW beam from a xenon arc solar simulator, thus proving the feasibility of the concept. The experimental set up and the laser output as functions of operating conditions are presented. The preliminary results of the iodine laser amplifier pumped with the HCP array to which a Q switch for giant pulse production was coupled are included. Two invention disclosures - a laser driven magnetohydrodynamic generator for conversion of laser energy to electricity and solar pumped gas lasers - are also included.

Voter comparator switch provides fail safe data communications system - A concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koczela, L. J.; Wilgus, D. S.

1971-01-01

System indicates status of computers and controls operational modes. Two matrices are used - one relating to permissible system states, the other relating to requested system states. Concept is useful to designers of digital data transmission systems and time shared computer systems.

Activation of different split functionalities upon re-association of RNA-DNA hybrids

PubMed Central

Afonin, Kirill A.; Viard, Mathias; Martins, Angelica N.; Lockett, Stephen J.; Maciag, Anna E.; Freed, Eric O.; Heldman, Eliahu; Jaeger, Luc; Blumenthal, Robert; Shapiro, Bruce A.

2013-01-01

Split-protein systems, an approach that relies on fragmentation of proteins with their further conditional re-association to form functional complexes, are increasingly used for various biomedical applications. This approach offers tight control of the protein functions and improved detection sensitivity. Here we show a similar technique based on a pair of RNA-DNA hybrids that can be generally used for triggering different split functionalities. Individually, each hybrid is inactive but when two cognate hybrids re-associate, different functionalities are triggered inside mammalian cells. As a proof of concept this work is mainly focused on activation of RNA interference; however the release of other functionalities (resonance energy transfer and RNA aptamer) is also shown. Furthermore, in vivo studies demonstrate a significant uptake of the hybrids by tumors together with specific gene silencing. This split-functionality approach presents a new route in the development of “smart” nucleic acids based nanoparticles and switches for various biomedical applications. PMID:23542902

Multi-function all optical packet switch by periodic wavelength arrangement in an arrayed waveguide grating and wideband optical filters.

PubMed

Feng, Kai-Ming; Wu, Chung-Yu; Wen, Yu-Hsiang

2012-01-16

By utilizing the cyclic filtering function of an NxN arrayed waveguide grating (AWG), we propose and experimentally demonstrate a novel multi-function all optical packet switching (OPS) architecture by applying a periodical wavelength arrangement between the AWG in the optical routing/buffering unit and a set of wideband optical filters in the switched output ports to achieve the desired routing and buffering functions. The proposed OPS employs only one tunable wavelength converter at the input port to convert the input wavelength to a designated wavelength which reduces the number of active optical components and thus the complexity of the traffic control is simplified in the OPS. With the proposed OPS architecture, multiple optical packet switching functions, including arbitrary packet switching and buffering, first-in-first-out (FIFO) packet multiplexing, packet demultiplexing and packet add/drop multiplexing, have been successfully demonstrated.

HMSIW-based switchable units using super compact loaded shunt stubs and its applications on SIW/HMSIW switches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Haidong; Che, Wenquan; Zhang, Tianyu; Cao, Yue; Feng, Wenjie

2018-06-01

Half-mode substrate integrated waveguide (HMSIW) switchable unit, built by HMSIW section with loaded single or multi-microstrip shunt stub(s), was proposed in this work. Both shorted and opened stubs were studied, investigated and compared, bandwidth enhancement method for proposed switchable units was proposed and demonstrated. Based on these switchable units, narrowband and broadband HMSIW single-pole-single-through (SPST) switches, SIW SPST switch and SIW/HMSIW-based single-pole-double-through (SPDT) switch were designed, fabricated and measured. Good performances were observed experimentally for these proposed circuits, showing the advantages of proposed concept and an excellent candidate for switchable or reconfigurable SIW/HMSIW circuits or systems.

Simple Fall Criteria for MEMS Sensors: Data Analysis and Sensor Concept

PubMed Central

Ibrahim, Alwathiqbellah; Younis, Mohammad I.

2014-01-01

This paper presents a new and simple fall detection concept based on detailed experimental data of human falling and the activities of daily living (ADLs). Establishing appropriate fall algorithms compatible with MEMS sensors requires detailed data on falls and ADLs that indicate clearly the variations of the kinematics at the possible sensor node location on the human body, such as hip, head, and chest. Currently, there is a lack of data on the exact direction and magnitude of each acceleration component associated with these node locations. This is crucial for MEMS structures, which have inertia elements very close to the substrate and are capacitively biased, and hence, are very sensitive to the direction of motion whether it is toward or away from the substrate. This work presents detailed data of the acceleration components on various locations on the human body during various kinds of falls and ADLs. A two-degree-of-freedom model is used to help interpret the experimental data. An algorithm for fall detection based on MEMS switches is then established. A new sensing concept based on the algorithm is proposed. The concept is based on employing several inertia sensors, which are triggered simultaneously, as electrical switches connected in series, upon receiving a true fall signal. In the case of everyday life activities, some or no switches will be triggered resulting in an open circuit configuration, thereby preventing false positive. Lumped-parameter model is presented for the device and preliminary simulation results are presented illustrating the new device concept. PMID:25006997

Electronic switches and control circuits: A compilation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

The innovations in this updated series of compilations dealing with electronic technology represents a carefully selected collection of items on electronic switches and control circuits. Most of the items are based on well-known circuit design concepts that have been simplified or refined to meet NASA's demanding requirement for reliability, simplicity, fail-safe characteristics, and the capability of withstanding environmental extremes.

Hybrid switch for resonant power converters

DOEpatents

Lai, Jih-Sheng; Yu, Wensong

2014-09-09

A hybrid switch comprising two semiconductor switches connected in parallel but having different voltage drop characteristics as a function of current facilitates attainment of zero voltage switching and reduces conduction losses to complement reduction of switching losses achieved through zero voltage switching in power converters such as high-current inverters.

Atrial Function after the Atrial Switch Operation for Transposition of the Great Arteries: Comparison with Arterial Switch and Normals by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance.

PubMed

Franzoso, Francesca D; Wohlmuth, Christoph; Greutmann, Matthias; Kellenberger, Christian J; Oxenius, Angela; Voser, Eva M; Valsangiacomo Buechel, Emanuela R

2016-09-01

The atria serve as reservoir, conduit, and active pump for ventricular filling. The performance of the atrial baffles after atrial switch repair for transposition of the great arteries may be abnormal and impact the function of the systemic right ventricle. We sought to assess atrial function in patients after atrial repair in comparison to patients after arterial switch repair (ASO) and to controls. Using magnetic resonance imaging, atrial volumes and functional parameters were measured in 17 patients after atrial switch repair, 9 patients after ASO and 10 healthy subjects. After the atrial switch operation, the maximum volume of the pulmonary venous atrium was significantly enlarged, but not of the systemic venous atrium. In both patients groups, independently from the surgical technique used, the minimum atrial volumes were elevated, which resulted in a decreased total empting fraction compared with controls (P < .01). The passive empting volume was diminished for right atrium, but elevated for left atrium after atrial switch and normal for left atrium after ASO; however, the passive empting fraction was diminished for both right atrium and left atrium after both operations (P < .01). The active empting volume was the most affected parameter in both atria and both groups and active empting fractions were highly significantly reduced compared with controls. Atrial function is abnormal in all patients, after atrial switch and ASO repair. The cyclic volume changes, that is, atrial filling and empting, are reduced when compared with normal subjects. Thus, the atria have lost part of their capacity to convert continuous venous flow into a pulsatile ventricular filling. The function of the pulmonary venous atrium, acting as preload for the systemic right ventricle, after atrial switch is altered the most. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Four-state non-volatile memory in a multiferroic spin filter tunnel junction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruan, Jieji; Li, Chen; Yuan, Zhoushen; Wang, Peng; Li, Aidong; Wu, Di

2016-12-01

We report a spin filter type multiferroic tunnel junction with a ferromagnetic/ferroelectric bilayer barrier. Memory functions of a spin filter magnetic tunnel junction and a ferroelectric tunnel junction are combined in this single device, producing four non-volatile resistive states that can be read out in a non-destructive manner. This concept is demonstrated in a LaNiO3/Pr0.8Ca0.2MnO3/BaTiO3/La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 all-oxide tunnel junction. The ferromagnetic insulator Pr0.8Ca0.2MnO3 serves as the spin filter and the ferromagnetic metal La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 is the spin analyzer. The ferroelectric polarization reversal in the BaTiO3 barrier switches the tunneling barrier height to produce a tunneling electroresistance. The ferroelectric switching also modulates the spin polarization and the spin filtering efficiency in Pr0.8Ca0.2MnO3.

Homeostatic systems, biocybernetics, and autonomic neuroscience.

PubMed

Goldstein, David S; Kopin, Irwin J

2017-12-01

In this review we describe a series of major concepts introduced during the past 150years that have contributed to our current understanding about how physiological processes required for well-being and survival are regulated. One can theorize that hierarchical networks involving input-output relationships continuously orchestrate and learn adaptive patterns of observable behaviors, cognition, memory, mood, and autonomic systems. Taken together, these networks function as "good regulators" determining levels of internal variables and act as if there were homeostatic comparators ("homeostats"). The consequences of models with vs. without homeostats remain the same in terms of allostatic load and the eventual switch from stabilizing negative feedback loops to destabilizing, pathogenic positive feedback loops. Understanding this switch seems important for comprehending senescence-related, neurodegenerative disorders that involve the autonomic nervous system. Our general proposal is that disintegration of homeostatic systems causes disorders of regulation in degenerative diseases and that medical cybernetics can inspire and rationalize new approaches to treatment and prevention. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Ultra-Wide Band Non-reciprocity through Sequentially-Switched Delay Lines.

PubMed

Biedka, Mathew M; Zhu, Rui; Xu, Qiang Mark; Wang, Yuanxun Ethan

2017-01-06

Achieving non-reciprocity through unconventional methods without the use of magnetic material has recently become a subject of great interest. Towards this goal a time switching strategy known as the Sequentially-Switched Delay Line (SSDL) is proposed. The essential SSDL configuration consists of six transmission lines of equal length, along with five switches. Each switch is turned on and off sequentially to distribute and route the propagating electromagnetic wave, allowing for simultaneous transmission and receiving of signals through the device. Preliminary experimental results with commercial off the shelf parts are presented which demonstrated non-reciprocal behavior with greater than 40 dB isolation from 200 KHz to 200 MHz. The theory and experimental results demonstrated that the SSDL concept may lead to future on-chip circulators over multi-octaves of frequency.

Duration and route of antibiotic therapy in community-acquired pneumonia: switch and step-down therapy.

PubMed

Cassiere, H A; Fein, A M

1998-03-01

The treatment of hospitalized patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) has traditional been with intravenous antibiotics. More recently, the focus of this antibiotic therapy has been empiric and based on the most likely pathogens in a given patient. The concept of when and how to approach the patient for conversion to oral therapy, known as switch therapy, is now the focus of controversy. Recently, several studies have emerged from the literature that shed some light on the subject of switch therapy for CAP. Although the data are limited at this time, it seems clear that switching to oral antibiotics in selected low-risk patients may be feasible and safe. In this article, we focus on the problem and help formulate a practical approach to switching patients from intravenous antibiotics to oral therapy for CAP.

Ultra-Wide Band Non-reciprocity through Sequentially-Switched Delay Lines

PubMed Central

Biedka, Mathew M.; Zhu, Rui; Xu, Qiang Mark; Wang, Yuanxun Ethan

2017-01-01

Achieving non-reciprocity through unconventional methods without the use of magnetic material has recently become a subject of great interest. Towards this goal a time switching strategy known as the Sequentially-Switched Delay Line (SSDL) is proposed. The essential SSDL configuration consists of six transmission lines of equal length, along with five switches. Each switch is turned on and off sequentially to distribute and route the propagating electromagnetic wave, allowing for simultaneous transmission and receiving of signals through the device. Preliminary experimental results with commercial off the shelf parts are presented which demonstrated non-reciprocal behavior with greater than 40 dB isolation from 200 KHz to 200 MHz. The theory and experimental results demonstrated that the SSDL concept may lead to future on-chip circulators over multi-octaves of frequency. PMID:28059132

Reactive molecular dynamics simulations of switching processes of azobenzene-based monolayer on surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Ziqi; Wen, Jin; Ma, Jing

2013-07-01

It is a challenge to simulate the switching process of functional self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on metal surfaces, since the systems consist of thousands of atoms and the switching is triggered by quantum-mechanical events. Herein a molecular dynamics simulation with a reactive rotation potential of N=N bond is implemented to investigate the dynamic conformational changes and packing effects on the stimuli-responsive isomerization of the terminally thiol functionalized azobiphenyls (AZOs), which are bound on the Au(111) surface. To, respectively, distinguish the time evolutions that start from cis and trans initial configurations, two different functions are established to model the potential energy curves for cis-to-trans and trans-to-cis transitions, instead of the only one cosine function used in the conventional non-reactive force fields. In order to simulate the conformation transitions of the AZO film on surface, a random switching function, depending on the N=N twisting angle, is constructed to consider both forward and backward cis/trans isomerization events and to trigger the reaction by changing the N atom types automatically. The factors that will influence the isomerization process, including the choice of ensembles and thermostat algorithms, the time intervals separating each switching, and the forms of the switching function, are systematically tested. Most AZO molecules switch from the cis to trans configuration with a coverage of 5.76 × 10-6 mol/m2 on a picosecond time scale, and a low coverage might make the switching irreversible, which is in agreement with the experiments.

Molecular switches and motors on surfaces.

PubMed

Pathem, Bala Krishna; Claridge, Shelley A; Zheng, Yue Bing; Weiss, Paul S

2013-01-01

Molecular switches and motors respond structurally, electronically, optically, and/or mechanically to external stimuli, testing and potentially enabling extreme miniaturization of optoelectronic devices, nanoelectromechanical systems, and medical devices. The assembly of motors and switches on surfaces makes it possible both to measure the properties of individual molecules as they relate to their environment and to couple function between assembled molecules. In this review, we discuss recent progress in assembling molecular switches and motors on surfaces, measuring static and dynamic structures, understanding switching mechanisms, and constructing functional molecular materials and devices. As demonstrative examples, we choose a representative molecule from three commonly studied classes including molecular switches, photochromic molecules, and mechanically interlocked molecules. We conclude by offering perspectives on the future of molecular switches and motors on surfaces.

Femtosecond laser spectroscopy of the rhodopsin photochromic reaction: a concept for ultrafast optical molecular switch creation (ultrafast reversible photoreaction of rhodopsin).

PubMed

Smitienko, Olga; Nadtochenko, Victor; Feldman, Tatiana; Balatskaya, Maria; Shelaev, Ivan; Gostev, Fedor; Sarkisov, Oleg; Ostrovsky, Mikhail

2014-11-11

Ultrafast reverse photoreaction of visual pigment rhodopsin in the femtosecond time range at room temperature is demonstrated. Femtosecond two-pump probe experiments with a time resolution of 25 fs have been performed. The first рump pulse at 500 nm initiated cis-trans photoisomerization of rhodopsin chromophore, 11-cis retinal, which resulted in the formation of the primary ground-state photoproduct within a mere 200 fs. The second pump pulse at 620 nm with a varying delay of 200 to 3750 fs relative to the first рump pulse, initiated the reverse phototransition of the primary photoproduct to rhodopsin. The results of this photoconversion have been observed on the differential spectra obtained after the action of two pump pulses at a time delay of 100 ps. It was found that optical density decreased at 560 nm in the spectral region of bathorhodopsin absorption and increased at 480 nm, where rhodopsin absorbs. Rhodopsin photoswitching efficiency shows oscillations as a function of the time delay between two рump pulses. The quantum yield of reverse photoreaction initiated by the second pump pulse falls within the range 15%±1%. The molecular mechanism of the ultrafast reversible photoreaction of visual pigment rhodopsin may be used as a concept for the development of an ultrafast optical molecular switch.

Time-varying multiplex network: Intralayer and interlayer synchronization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rakshit, Sarbendu; Majhi, Soumen; Bera, Bidesh K.; Sinha, Sudeshna; Ghosh, Dibakar

2017-12-01

A large class of engineered and natural systems, ranging from transportation networks to neuronal networks, are best represented by multiplex network architectures, namely a network composed of two or more different layers where the mutual interaction in each layer may differ from other layers. Here we consider a multiplex network where the intralayer coupling interactions are switched stochastically with a characteristic frequency. We explore the intralayer and interlayer synchronization of such a time-varying multiplex network. We find that the analytically derived necessary condition for intralayer and interlayer synchronization, obtained by the master stability function approach, is in excellent agreement with our numerical results. Interestingly, we clearly find that the higher frequency of switching links in the layers enhances both intralayer and interlayer synchrony, yielding larger windows of synchronization. Further, we quantify the resilience of synchronous states against random perturbations, using a global stability measure based on the concept of basin stability, and this reveals that intralayer coupling strength is most crucial for determining both intralayer and interlayer synchrony. Lastly, we investigate the robustness of interlayer synchronization against a progressive demultiplexing of the multiplex structure, and we find that for rapid switching of intralayer links, the interlayer synchronization persists even when a large number of interlayer nodes are disconnected.

CHEETAH: circuit-switched high-speed end-to-end transport architecture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Veeraraghavan, Malathi; Zheng, Xuan; Lee, Hyuk; Gardner, M.; Feng, Wuchun

2003-10-01

Leveraging the dominance of Ethernet in LANs and SONET/SDH in MANs and WANs, we propose a service called CHEETAH (Circuit-switched High-speed End-to-End Transport ArcHitecture). The service concept is to provide end hosts with high-speed, end-to-end circuit connectivity on a call-by-call shared basis, where a "circuit" consists of Ethernet segments at the ends that are mapped into Ethernet-over-SONET long-distance circuits. This paper focuses on the file-transfer application for such circuits. For this application, the CHEETAH service is proposed as an add-on to the primary Internet access service already in place for enterprise hosts. This allows an end host that is sending a file to first attempt setting up an end-to-end Ethernet/EoS circuit, and if rejected, fall back to the TCP/IP path. If the circuit setup is successful, the end host will enjoy a much shorter file-transfer delay than on the TCP/IP path. To determine the conditions under which an end host with access to the CHEETAH service should attempt circuit setup, we analyze mean file-transfer delays as a function of call blocking probability in the circuit-switched network, probability of packet loss in the IP network, round-trip times, link rates, and so on.

Time-varying multiplex network: Intralayer and interlayer synchronization.

PubMed

Rakshit, Sarbendu; Majhi, Soumen; Bera, Bidesh K; Sinha, Sudeshna; Ghosh, Dibakar

2017-12-01

A large class of engineered and natural systems, ranging from transportation networks to neuronal networks, are best represented by multiplex network architectures, namely a network composed of two or more different layers where the mutual interaction in each layer may differ from other layers. Here we consider a multiplex network where the intralayer coupling interactions are switched stochastically with a characteristic frequency. We explore the intralayer and interlayer synchronization of such a time-varying multiplex network. We find that the analytically derived necessary condition for intralayer and interlayer synchronization, obtained by the master stability function approach, is in excellent agreement with our numerical results. Interestingly, we clearly find that the higher frequency of switching links in the layers enhances both intralayer and interlayer synchrony, yielding larger windows of synchronization. Further, we quantify the resilience of synchronous states against random perturbations, using a global stability measure based on the concept of basin stability, and this reveals that intralayer coupling strength is most crucial for determining both intralayer and interlayer synchrony. Lastly, we investigate the robustness of interlayer synchronization against a progressive demultiplexing of the multiplex structure, and we find that for rapid switching of intralayer links, the interlayer synchronization persists even when a large number of interlayer nodes are disconnected.

An intelligent displacement pumping film system: a new concept for enhancing heavy metal ion removal efficiency from liquid waste.

PubMed

Wang, Zhongde; Feng, Yanting; Hao, Xiaogang; Huang, Wei; Guan, Guoqing; Abudula, Abuliti

2014-06-15

A concept of electrochemically switched ion exchange (ESIX) hybrid film system with piston-like proton pumping effect for the removal of heavy metal ions was proposed. Based on this concept, a novel ESIX hybrid film composed of layered alpha zirconium phosphate (α-Zr(HPO4)2; α-ZrP) nanosheets intercalated with a potential-responsive conducting polyaniline (PANI) was developed for the removal of Ni(2+) ions from wastewater. It is expected that the space between α-ZrP nanosheets acts as the reservoir for the functional ions while the intercalated PANI works as the potential-sensitive function element for piston-like proton pumping in such ESIX hybrid films. The prepared ESIX hybrid film showed an excellent property of rapid removal of Ni(2+) ions from wastewater with a high selectivity. The used film was simply regenerated by only altering the applied potential. The ion pumping effect for the ESIX of Ni(2+) ions using this kind of film was proved via XPS analysis. The proposed ESIX hybrid film should have high potential for the removal of Ni(2+) ions and/or other heavy metal ions from wastewater in various industrial processes. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

New Concepts for the Development of Carbon Nanotube Materials for Army Related Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-16

the microcavity exciton- polariton system, which started as a theoretical concept in the 1990s and has been a driving force for experimental physics of... polariton lasers, optical polarization switches, superfluid spintronic devices, etc. We, therefore, strongly believe that the quasi-1D exciton BEC effect

Galileo IOV Electrical Power Subsystem Relies On Li-Ion Batter Charge Management Controlled By Hardware

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Douay, N.

2011-10-01

In the frame of GALILEO In-Orbit Validation program which is composed of 4 satellites, Thales Alenia Space France has designed, developed and tested the Electrical Power Subsystem. Besides some classical design choices like: -50V regulated main power bus provided by the PCDU manufactured by Terma (DK), -Solar array, manufactured by Dutch-Space (NL), using Ga-As triple junction technology from Azur Space Power Solar GmbH, -SAFT (FR) Lithium-ion Battery for which cell package balancing function is required, -Solar Array Drive Mechanism, provided by RUAG Space Switzerland, to transfer the power. This subsystem features a fully autonomous, failure tolerant, battery charge management able to operate even after a complete unavailability of the on-board software. The battery charge management is implemented such that priority is always given to satisfy the satellite main bus needs in order to maintain the main bus regulation under MEA control. This battery charge management principle provides very high reliability and operational robustness. So, the paper describes : -the battery charge management concept using a combination of PCDU hardware and relevant battery lines monitoring, -the functional aspect of the single point failure free S4R (Sequential Switching Shunt Switch Regulator) and associated performances, -the failure modes isolated and passivated by this architecture. The paper will address as well the autonomous balancing function characteristics and performances.

Traveling-wave synchronous coil gun

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elliott, David G.

1991-01-01

An outline is presented of the coilgun concept, excitation, switching, brush commutation, power supply, and performance. It is shown that a traveling-wave synchronous coilgun permits independent adjustment of the magnetic field and armature current for high velocity at low armature mass fraction. Magnetic field energy is transferred from the rear of the wave to the front without passing through the power supply. Elaborate switching is required.

Switching Between Everyday and Scientific Language

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blown, Eric J.; Bryce, Tom G. K.

2017-06-01

The research reported here investigated the everyday and scientific repertoires of children involved in semi-structured, Piagetian interviews carried out to check their understanding of dynamic astronomical concepts like daytime and night-time. It focused on the switching taking place between embedded and disembedded thinking; on the imagery which subjects referred to in their verbal dialogue and their descriptions of drawings and play-dough models of the Earth, Sun and Moon; and it examined the prevalence and character of animism and figurative speech in children's thinking. Five hundred and thirty-nine children (aged 3-18) from Wairarapa in New Zealand (171 boys and 185 girls) and Changchun in China (99 boys and 84 girls) took part in the study. Modified ordinal scales for the relevant concept categories were used to classify children's responses and data from each age group (with numbers balanced as closely as practicable by culture and gender) analysed with Kolmogorov-Smirnov two-sample tests (at an alpha level of 0.05). Although, in general, there was consistency of dynamic concepts within and across media and their associated modalities in keeping with the theory of conceptual coherence (see Blown and Bryce 2010; Bryce and Blown 2016), there were several cases of inter-modal and intra-modal switching in both cultures. Qualitative data from the interview protocols revealed how children switch between everyday and scientific language (in both directions) and use imagery in response to questioning. The research indicates that children's grasp of scientific ideas in this field may ordinarily be under-estimated if one only goes by formal scientific expression and vocabulary.

The hierarchical and functional connectivity of higher-order cognitive mechanisms: neurorobotic model to investigate the stability and flexibility of working memory

PubMed Central

Alnajjar, Fady; Yamashita, Yuichi; Tani, Jun

2013-01-01

Higher-order cognitive mechanisms (HOCM), such as planning, cognitive branching, switching, etc., are known to be the outcomes of a unique neural organizations and dynamics between various regions of the frontal lobe. Although some recent anatomical and neuroimaging studies have shed light on the architecture underlying the formation of such mechanisms, the neural dynamics and the pathways in and between the frontal lobe to form and/or to tune the stability level of its working memory remain controversial. A model to clarify this aspect is therefore required. In this study, we propose a simple neurocomputational model that suggests the basic concept of how HOCM, including the cognitive branching and switching in particular, may mechanistically emerge from time-based neural interactions. The proposed model is constructed such that its functional and structural hierarchy mimics, to a certain degree, the biological hierarchy that is believed to exist between local regions in the frontal lobe. Thus, the hierarchy is attained not only by the force of the layout architecture of the neural connections but also through distinct types of neurons, each with different time properties. To validate the model, cognitive branching and switching tasks were simulated in a physical humanoid robot driven by the model. Results reveal that separation between the lower and the higher-level neurons in such a model is an essential factor to form an appropriate working memory to handle cognitive branching and switching. The analyses of the obtained result also illustrates that the breadth of this separation is important to determine the characteristics of the resulting memory, either static memory or dynamic memory. This work can be considered as a joint research between synthetic and empirical studies, which can open an alternative research area for better understanding of brain mechanisms. PMID:23423881

The hierarchical and functional connectivity of higher-order cognitive mechanisms: neurorobotic model to investigate the stability and flexibility of working memory.

PubMed

Alnajjar, Fady; Yamashita, Yuichi; Tani, Jun

2013-01-01

Higher-order cognitive mechanisms (HOCM), such as planning, cognitive branching, switching, etc., are known to be the outcomes of a unique neural organizations and dynamics between various regions of the frontal lobe. Although some recent anatomical and neuroimaging studies have shed light on the architecture underlying the formation of such mechanisms, the neural dynamics and the pathways in and between the frontal lobe to form and/or to tune the stability level of its working memory remain controversial. A model to clarify this aspect is therefore required. In this study, we propose a simple neurocomputational model that suggests the basic concept of how HOCM, including the cognitive branching and switching in particular, may mechanistically emerge from time-based neural interactions. The proposed model is constructed such that its functional and structural hierarchy mimics, to a certain degree, the biological hierarchy that is believed to exist between local regions in the frontal lobe. Thus, the hierarchy is attained not only by the force of the layout architecture of the neural connections but also through distinct types of neurons, each with different time properties. To validate the model, cognitive branching and switching tasks were simulated in a physical humanoid robot driven by the model. Results reveal that separation between the lower and the higher-level neurons in such a model is an essential factor to form an appropriate working memory to handle cognitive branching and switching. The analyses of the obtained result also illustrates that the breadth of this separation is important to determine the characteristics of the resulting memory, either static memory or dynamic memory. This work can be considered as a joint research between synthetic and empirical studies, which can open an alternative research area for better understanding of brain mechanisms.

Neonatal maternal separation delays the GABA excitatory-to-inhibitory functional switch by inhibiting KCC2 expression.

PubMed

Furukawa, Minami; Tsukahara, Takao; Tomita, Kazuo; Iwai, Haruki; Sonomura, Takahiro; Miyawaki, Shouichi; Sato, Tomoaki

2017-11-25

The excitatory-to-inhibitory functional switch of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA; GABA switch), which normally occurs in the first to the second postnatal week in the hippocampus, is necessary for the development of appropriate central nervous system function. A deficit in GABAergic inhibitory function could cause excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) neuron imbalance that is found in many neurodegenerative disorders. In the present study, we examined whether neonatal stress can affect the timing of the GABA functional switch and cause disorders during adolescence. Neonatal stress was induced in C57BL/6J male mouse pups by maternal separation (MS) on postnatal days (PND) 1-21. Histological quantification of K + -Cl - co-transporter (KCC2) and Ca 2+ imaging were performed to examine the timing of the GABA switch during the MS period. To evaluate the influence of neonatal MS on adolescent hippocampal function, we quantified KCC2 expression and evaluated hippocampal-related behavioral tasks at PND35-38. We showed that MS delayed the timing of the GABA switch in the hippocampus and inhibited the increase in membrane KCC2 expression, with KCC2 expression inhibition persisting until adolescence. Behavioral tests showed impaired cognition, declined attention, hyperlocomotion, and aggressive character in maternally separated mice. Taken together, our results show that neonatal stress delayed the timing of the GABA switch, which could change the E/I balance and cause neurodegenerative disorders in later life. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development, Integration and Testing of Automated Triggering Circuit for Hybrid DC Circuit Breaker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanabar, Deven; Roy, Swati; Dodiya, Chiragkumar; Pradhan, Subrata

2017-04-01

A novel concept of Hybrid DC circuit breaker having combination of mechanical switch and static switch provides arc-less current commutation into the dump resistor during quench in superconducting magnet operation. The triggering of mechanical and static switches in Hybrid DC breaker can be automatized which can effectively reduce the overall current commutation time of hybrid DC circuit breaker and make the operation independent of opening time of mechanical switch. With this view, a dedicated control circuit (auto-triggering circuit) has been developed which can decide the timing and pulse duration for mechanical switch as well as static switch from the operating parameters. This circuit has been tested with dummy parameters and thereafter integrated with the actual test set up of hybrid DC circuit breaker. This paper deals with the conceptual design of the auto-triggering circuit, its control logic and operation. The test results of Hybrid DC circuit breaker using this circuit have also been discussed.

Molecular engineering and measurements to test hypothesized mechanisms in single molecule conductance switching.

PubMed

Moore, Amanda M; Dameron, Arrelaine A; Mantooth, Brent A; Smith, Rachel K; Fuchs, Daniel J; Ciszek, Jacob W; Maya, Francisco; Yao, Yuxing; Tour, James M; Weiss, Paul S

2006-02-15

Six customized phenylene-ethynylene-based oligomers have been studied for their electronic properties using scanning tunneling microscopy to test hypothesized mechanisms of stochastic conductance switching. Previously suggested mechanisms include functional group reduction, functional group rotation, backbone ring rotation, neighboring molecule interactions, bond fluctuations, and hybridization changes. Here, we test these hypotheses experimentally by varying the molecular designs of the switches; the ability of the molecules to switch via each hypothetical mechanism is selectively engineered into or out of each molecule. We conclude that hybridization changes at the molecule-surface interface are responsible for the switching we observe.

Teachers' Code-Switching in Bilingual Classrooms: Exploring Pedagogical and Sociocultural Functions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cahyani, Hilda; de Courcy, Michele; Barnett, Jenny

2018-01-01

The pedagogical and sociocultural functions of teachers' code-switching are an important factor in achieving the dual goals of content learning and language learning in bilingual programmes. This paper reports on an ethnographic case study investigating how and why teachers switched between languages in tertiary bilingual classrooms in Indonesia,…

Adaptability of Protein Structures to Enable Functional Interactions and Evolutionary Implications

PubMed Central

Haliloglu, Turkan; Bahar, Ivet

2015-01-01

Several studies in recent years have drawn attention to the ability of proteins to adapt to intermolecular interactions by conformational changes along structure-encoded collective modes of motions. These so-called soft modes, primarily driven by entropic effects, facilitate, if not enable, functional interactions. They represent excursions on the conformational space along principal low-ascent directions/paths away from the original free energy minimum, and they are accessible to the protein even prior to protein-protein/ligand interactions. An emerging concept from these studies is the evolution of structures or modular domains to favor such modes of motion that will be recruited or integrated for enabling functional interactions. Structural dynamics, including the allosteric switches in conformation that are often stabilized upon formation of complexes and multimeric assemblies, emerge as key properties that are evolutionarily maintained to accomplish biological activities, consistent with the paradigm sequence → structure → dynamics → function where ‘dynamics’ bridges structure and function. PMID:26254902

WHY DOES OLDER ADULTS' BALANCE BECOME LESS STABLE WHEN WALKING AND PERFORMING A SECONDARY TASK? EXAMINATION OF ATTENTIONAL SWITCHING ABILITIES

PubMed Central

Hawkes, Teresa D; Siu, Ka-Chun; Silsupadol, Patima; Woollacott, Marjorie H.

2011-01-01

Previous research using dual-task paradigms indicates balance-impaired older adults (BIOA) are less able to flexibly shift attentional focus between a cognitive and motor task than healthy older adults (HOA). Shifting attention is a component of executive function. Task switch tests assess executive attention function. This multivariate study asked if BIOAs demonstrate greater task switching deficits than HOAs. A group of 39 HOA (65–80 yrs) and BIOA (65–87 yrs) subjects performed a visuo-spatial task switch. A sub-group of subjects performed a dual-task obstacle avoidance paradigm. All participants completed the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Timed Up and Go (TUG). We assessed differences by group for: 1) visuo-spatial task switch reaction times (switch/no-switch), and performance on the BBS and TUG. Our balance groups differed significantly on BBS score (p < .001) and switch reaction time (p = .032), but not the TUG. This confirmed our hypothesis that neuromuscular and executive attention function differs between these two groups. For our BIOA sub-group, gait velocity correlated negatively with performance on the switch condition (p=.036). This suggests that BIOA efficiency of attentional allocation in dual task settings should be further explored. PMID:21964051

Flexible-rate optical packet generation/detection and label swapping for optical label switching networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Zhongying; Li, Juhao; Tian, Yu; Ge, Dawei; Zhu, Paikun; Chen, Yuanxiang; Chen, Zhangyuan; He, Yongqi

2017-03-01

In recent years, optical label switching (OLS) gains lots of attentions due to its intrinsic advantages to implement protocol, bit-rate, granularity and data format transparency packet switching. In this paper, we propose a novel scheme to realize flexible-rate optical packet switching for OLS networks. At the transmitter node, flexible-rate packet is generated by parallel modulating different combinations of optical carriers generated from the optical multi-carrier generator (OMCG), among which the low-speed optical label occupies one carrier. At the switching node, label is extracted and re-generated in label processing unit (LPU). The payloads are switched based on routing information and new label is added after switching. At the receiver node, another OMCG serves as local oscillators (LOs) for optical payloads coherent detection. The proposed scheme offers good flexibility for dynamic optical packet switching by adjusting the payload bandwidth and could also effectively reduce the number of lasers, modulators and receivers for packet generation/detection. We present proof-of-concept demonstrations of flexible-rate packet generation/detection and label swapping in 12.5 GHz grid. The influence of crosstalk for cascaded label swapping is also investigated.

System Leadership for School Improvement: A Developing Concept and Set of Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dimmock, Clive

2016-01-01

System leadership is a developing concept and practice increasingly seen as a tool for school improvement, as policymakers switch from traditional top-down reform to professional models of schools working collaboratively. System leadership is being championed by the Scottish College for Educational Leadership (SCEL), but is still in its infancy in…

The impact of commonly prescribed drugs on male fertility.

PubMed

Hayashi, Tetsuo; Miyata, Akiomi; Yamada, Takumi

2008-09-01

To analyze the impact of commonly used drugs on male fertility, we assessed the clinical characteristics of patients with impaired semen quality while they were taking medication for chronic diseases and after switching therapies. Of 1768 infertile males, 201 patients were taking medications and had impaired semen quality without any seminal tract obstruction, spermatogenic abnormalities or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Of these 201 men, a total of 165 had no history of testicular diseases nor abnormalities in any examinations. Amongst them, H1 receptor antagonists were the most common medication taken, followed by antiepileptics and antibiotics. They were divided into two groups: an intervention group (73 patients), who could stop or switch their medications, and a control group (92 patients), who could not. In the intervention group, semen quality improvement rate and conception rate (93% and 85%, respectively) were much higher than those of the control group (12% and 10%, respectively). After switching therapies, the time interval before conception was 7.3 months, which was significantly shorter in asthenozoospermia than oligozoospermia. Our results confirm the potential fertility hazards of commonly used drugs and their reversibility. Moreover, after switching medication, drug-induced asthenozoospermia was cured more rapidly than oligozoospermia, suggesting that further delineation of such differences may help to elucidate mechanisms of spermatogenesis and might facilitate the development of non-hormonal male contraceptive agents.

Tailoring mode interference in plasmon-induced transparency metamaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Meng; Yang, Quanlong; Xu, Quan; Chen, Xieyu; Tian, Zhen; Gu, Jianqiang; Ouyang, Chunmei; Zhang, Xueqian; Han, Jiaguang; Zhang, Weili

2018-05-01

We proposed an approach to tailor the mode interference effect in plasmon-induced transparency (PIT) metamaterials. Through introducing an extra coupling mode using an asymmetric structure configuration at terahertz (THz) frequencies, the well-known single-transparency-window PIT can be switched to dual-transparency-window PIT. Proof-of-concept subwavelength structures were fabricated and experimentally characterized. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulations, and well support our theoretical analysis. The presented research delivers a novel approach toward developing subwavelength devices with varies functionalities, such as ultra-slow group velocities, longitudinal pulse compression and light storage in the THz regime, which can also be extended to other spectral regimes.

Fundamental studies on initiation and evolution of multi-channel discharges and their application to next generation pulsed power machines.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schwarz, Jens; Savage, Mark E.; Lucero, Diego Jose

Future pulsed power systems may rely on linear transformer driver (LTD) technology. The LTD's will be the building blocks for a driver that can deliver higher current than the Z-Machine. The LTD's would require tens of thousands of low inductance ( %3C 85nH), high voltage (200 kV DC) switches with high reliability and long lifetime ( 10 4 shots). Sandia's Z-Machine employs 36 megavolt class switches that are laser triggered by a single channel discharge. This is feasible for tens of switches but the high inductance and short switch life- time associated with the single channel discharge are undesirable formore » future machines. Thus the fundamental problem is how to lower inductance and losses while increasing switch life- time and reliability. These goals can be achieved by increasing the number of current-carrying channels. The rail gap switch is ideal for this purpose. Although those switches have been extensively studied during the past decades, each effort has only characterized a particular switch. There is no comprehensive understanding of the underlying physics that would allow predictive capability for arbitrary switch geometry. We have studied rail gap switches via an extensive suite of advanced diagnostics in synergy with theoretical physics and advanced modeling capability. Design and topology of multichannel switches as they relate to discharge dynamics are investigated. This involves electrically and optically triggered rail gaps, as well as discrete multi-site switch concepts.« less

30 CFR 57.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 57.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 57.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 56.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 56.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 56.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 57.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 57.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 57.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 56.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 56.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 56.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 57.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 57.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 57.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 56.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 56.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 56.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 57.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 57.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 57.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 57.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 57.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 57.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 56.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 56.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 56.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

30 CFR 56.19018 - Overtravel by-pass switches.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 30 Mineral Resources 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Overtravel by-pass switches. 56.19018 Section... Hoisting Hoists § 56.19018 Overtravel by-pass switches. When an overtravel by-pass switch is installed, the switch shall function so as to allow the conveyance to be moved through the overtravel position when the...

Data-based virtual unmodeled dynamics driven multivariable nonlinear adaptive switching control.

PubMed

Chai, Tianyou; Zhang, Yajun; Wang, Hong; Su, Chun-Yi; Sun, Jing

2011-12-01

For a complex industrial system, its multivariable and nonlinear nature generally make it very difficult, if not impossible, to obtain an accurate model, especially when the model structure is unknown. The control of this class of complex systems is difficult to handle by the traditional controller designs around their operating points. This paper, however, explores the concepts of controller-driven model and virtual unmodeled dynamics to propose a new design framework. The design consists of two controllers with distinct functions. First, using input and output data, a self-tuning controller is constructed based on a linear controller-driven model. Then the output signals of the controller-driven model are compared with the true outputs of the system to produce so-called virtual unmodeled dynamics. Based on the compensator of the virtual unmodeled dynamics, the second controller based on a nonlinear controller-driven model is proposed. Those two controllers are integrated by an adaptive switching control algorithm to take advantage of their complementary features: one offers stabilization function and another provides improved performance. The conditions on the stability and convergence of the closed-loop system are analyzed. Both simulation and experimental tests on a heavily coupled nonlinear twin-tank system are carried out to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Research on intelligent algorithm of electro - hydraulic servo control system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yannian; Zhao, Yuhui; Liu, Chengtao

2017-09-01

In order to adapt the nonlinear characteristics of the electro-hydraulic servo control system and the influence of complex interference in the industrial field, using a fuzzy PID switching learning algorithm is proposed and a fuzzy PID switching learning controller is designed and applied in the electro-hydraulic servo controller. The designed controller not only combines the advantages of the fuzzy control and PID control, but also introduces the learning algorithm into the switching function, which makes the learning of the three parameters in the switching function can avoid the instability of the system during the switching between the fuzzy control and PID control algorithms. It also makes the switch between these two control algorithm more smoother than that of the conventional fuzzy PID.

Electrical Surveillance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zimmerman, Jim

1992-01-01

Students examine the concepts of electrical circuits and switches by building their own alarm systems. Students apply their understanding by creating recorder, window, pressure sensitive, and lunch box alarms. (MDH)

Suggestions for Layout and Functional Behavior of Software-Based Voice Switch Keysets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scott, David W.

2010-01-01

Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) provides communication services for a number of real time environments, including Space Shuttle Propulsion support and International Space Station (ISS) payload operations. In such settings, control team members speak with each other via multiple voice circuits or loops. Each loop has a particular purpose and constituency, and users are assigned listen and/or talk capabilities for a given loop based on their role in fulfilling the purpose. A voice switch is a given facility's hardware and software that supports such communication, and may be interconnected with other facilities switches to create a large network that, from an end user perspective, acts like a single system. Since users typically monitor and/or respond to several voice loops concurrently for hours on end and real time operations can be very dynamic and intense, it s vital that a control panel or keyset for interfacing with the voice switch be a servant that reduces stress, not a master that adds it. Implementing the visual interface on a computer screen provides tremendous flexibility and configurability, but there s a very real risk of overcomplication. (Remember how office automation made life easier, which led to a deluge of documents that made life harder?) This paper a) discusses some basic human factors considerations related to keysets implemented as application software windows, b) suggests what to standardize at the facility level and what to leave to the user's preference, and c) provides screen shot mockups for a robust but reasonably simple user experience. Concepts apply to keyset needs in almost any type of operations control or support center.

Resistive Switching of Sub-10 nm TiO2 Nanoparticle Self-Assembled Monolayers

PubMed Central

Schmidt, Dirk Oliver; Raab, Nicolas; Santhanam, Venugopal; Dittmann, Regina; Simon, Ulrich

2017-01-01

Resistively switching devices are promising candidates for the next generation of non-volatile data memories. Such devices are up to now fabricated mainly by means of top-down approaches that apply thin films sandwiched between electrodes. Recent works have demonstrated that resistive switching (RS) is also feasible on chemically synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) in the 50 nm range. Following this concept, we developed this approach further to the sub-10 nm range. In this work, we report RS of sub-10 nm TiO2 NPs that were self-assembled into monolayers and transferred onto metallic substrates. We electrically characterized these monolayers in regard to their RS properties by means of a nanorobotics system in a scanning electron microscope, and found features typical of bipolar resistive switching. PMID:29113050

Multistability and hidden attractors in a relay system with hysteresis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhusubaliyev, Zhanybai T.; Mosekilde, Erik; Rubanov, Vasily G.; Nabokov, Roman A.

2015-06-01

For nonlinear dynamic systems with switching control, the concept of a "hidden attractor" naturally applies to a stable dynamic state that either (1) coexists with the stable switching cycle or (2), if the switching cycle is unstable, has a basin of attraction that does not intersect with the neighborhood of that cycle. We show how the equilibrium point of a relay system disappears in a boundary-equilibrium bifurcation as the system enters the region of autonomous switching dynamics and demonstrate experimentally how a relay system can exhibit large amplitude chaotic oscillations at high values of the supply voltage. By investigating a four-dimensional model of the experimental relay system we finally show how a variety of hidden periodic, quasiperiodic and chaotic attractors arise, transform and disappear through different bifurcations.

Stackable Form-Factor Peripheral Component Interconnect Device and Assembly

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Somervill, Kevin M. (Inventor); Ng, Tak-kwong (Inventor); Torres-Pomales, Wilfredo (Inventor); Malekpour, Mahyar R. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A stackable form-factor Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) device can be configured as a host controller or a master/target for use on a PCI assembly. PCI device may comprise a multiple-input switch coupled to a PCI bus, a multiplexor coupled to the switch, and a reconfigurable device coupled to one of the switch and multiplexor. The PCI device is configured to support functionality from power-up, and either control function or add-in card function.

Analytically derived switching functions for exact H2+ eigenstates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thorson, W. R.; Kimura, M.; Choi, J. H.; Knudson, S. K.

1981-10-01

Electron translation factors (ETF's) appropriate for slow atomic collisions may be constructed using switching functions. In this paper we derive a set of switching functions for the H2+ system by an analytical "two-center decomposition" of the exact molecular eigenstates. These switching functions are closely approximated by the simple form f=bη, where η is the "angle variable" of prolate spheroidal coordinates. For given united atom angular momentum quantum numbers (l,m), the characteristic parameter blm depends only on the quantity c2=-ɛR22, where ɛ is the electronic binding energy and R the internuclear distance in a.u. The resulting parameters are in excellent agreement with those found in our earlier work by a heuristic "optimization" scheme based on a study of coupling matrix-element behavior for a number of H2+ states. An approximate extension to asymmetric cases (HeH2+) has also been made. Nonadiabatic couplings based on these switching functions have been used in recent close-coupling calculations for H+-H(1s) collisions and He2+-H(1s) collisions at energies 1.0-20 keV.

Information Switching Processor (ISP) contention analysis and control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Inukai, Thomas

1995-01-01

In designing a satellite system with on-board processing, the selection of a switching architecture is often critical. The on-board switching function can be implemented by circuit switching or packet switching. Destination-directed packet switching has several attractive features, such as self-routing without on-board switch reconfiguration, no switch control memory requirement, efficient bandwidth utilization for packet switched traffic, and accommodation of circuit switched traffic. Destination-directed packet switching, however, has two potential concerns: (1) contention and (2) congestion. And this report specifically deals with the first problem. It includes a description and analysis of various self-routing switch structures, the nature of contention problems, and contention and resolution techniques.

A low-latency optical switch architecture using integrated μm SOI-based contention resolution and switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mourgias-Alexandris, G.; Moralis-Pegios, M.; Terzenidis, N.; Cherchi, M.; Harjanne, M.; Aalto, T.; Vyrsokinos, K.; Pleros, N.

2018-02-01

The urgent need for high-bandwidth and high-port connectivity in Data Centers has boosted the deployment of optoelectronic packet switches towards bringing high data-rate optics closer to the ASIC, realizing optical transceiver functions directly at the ASIC package for high-rate, low-energy and low-latency interconnects. Even though optics can offer a broad range of low-energy integrated switch fabrics for replacing electronic switches and seamlessly interface with the optical I/Os, the use of energy- and latency-consuming electronic SerDes continues to be a necessity, mainly dictated by the absence of integrated and reliable optical buffering solutions. SerDes undertakes the role of optimally synergizing the lower-speed electronic buffers with the incoming and outgoing optical streams, suggesting that a SerDes-released chip-scale optical switch fabric can be only realized in case all necessary functions including contention resolution and switching can be implemented on a common photonic integration platform. In this paper, we demonstrate experimentally a hybrid Broadcast-and-Select (BS) / wavelength routed optical switch that performs both the optical buffering and switching functions with μm-scale Silicon-integrated building blocks. Optical buffering is carried out in a silicon-integrated variable delay line bank with a record-high on-chip delay/footprint efficiency of 2.6ns/mm2 and up to 17.2 nsec delay capability, while switching is executed via a BS design and a silicon-integrated echelle grating, assisted by SOA-MZI wavelength conversion stages and controlled by a FPGA header processing module. The switch has been experimentally validated in a 3x3 arrangement with 10Gb/s NRZ optical data packets, demonstrating error-free switching operation with a power penalty of <5dB.

Common and Distinct Neural Mechanisms of Attentional Switching and Response Conflict

PubMed Central

Kim, Chobok; Johnson, Nathan F.; Gold, Brian T.

2012-01-01

The human capacities for overcoming prepotent actions and flexibly switching between tasks represent cornerstones of cognitive control. Functional neuroimaging has implicated a diverse set of brain regions contributing to each of these cognitive control processes. However, the extent to which attentional switching and response conflict draw on shared or distinct neural mechanisms remains unclear. The current study examined the neural correlates of response conflict and attentional switching using event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a fully randomized 2×2 design. We manipulated an arrow-word version of the Stroop task to measure conflict and switching in the context of a single task decision, in response to a common set of stimuli. Under these common conditions, both behavioral and imaging data showed significant main effects of conflict and switching but no interaction. However, conjunction analyses identified frontal regions involved in both switching and response conflict, including the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and left inferior frontal junction. In addition, connectivity analyses demonstrated task-dependent functional connectivity patterns between dACC and inferior temporal cortex for attentional switching and between dACC and posterior parietal cortex for response conflict. These results suggest that the brain makes use of shared frontal regions, but can dynamically modulate the connectivity patterns of some of those regions, to deal with attentional switching and response conflict. PMID:22750124

Common and distinct neural mechanisms of attentional switching and response conflict.

PubMed

Kim, Chobok; Johnson, Nathan F; Gold, Brian T

2012-08-21

The human capacities for overcoming prepotent actions and flexibly switching between tasks represent cornerstones of cognitive control. Functional neuroimaging has implicated a diverse set of brain regions contributing to each of these cognitive control processes. However, the extent to which attentional switching and response conflict draw on shared or distinct neural mechanisms remains unclear. The current study examined the neural correlates of response conflict and attentional switching using event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and a fully randomized 2×2 design. We manipulated an arrow-word version of the Stroop task to measure conflict and switching in the context of a single task decision, in response to a common set of stimuli. Under these common conditions, both behavioral and imaging data showed significant main effects of conflict and switching but no interaction. However, conjunction analyses identified frontal regions involved in both switching and response conflict, including the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and left inferior frontal junction. In addition, connectivity analyses demonstrated task-dependent functional connectivity patterns between dACC and inferior temporal cortex for attentional switching and between dACC and posterior parietal cortex for response conflict. These results suggest that the brain makes use of shared frontal regions, but can dynamically modulate the connectivity patterns of some of those regions, to deal with attentional switching and response conflict. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Changes in Ocular Surface Characteristics after Switching from Benzalkonium Chloride-Preserved Latanoprost to Preservative-Free Tafluprost or Benzalkonium Chloride-Preserved Tafluprost.

PubMed

Tokuda, Naoto; Kitaoka, Yasushi; Matsuzawa, Akiko; Tsukamoto, Ayaka; Sase, Kana; Sakae, Shinsuke; Takagi, Hitoshi

2017-01-01

The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of switching from Latanoprost ophthalmic solution containing a preservative to preservative-free Tafluprost ophthalmic solution or Tafluprost containing a preservative on ocular surfaces. Forty patients (40 eyes) with glaucoma (mean age: 62.0 ± 10.9 years) using Latanoprost with preservative for six months or longer were assigned either to a Tafluprost-containing-preservative group (20 eyes) or preservative-free-Tafluprost group (20 eyes). The intraocular pressure, corneal epithelial barrier function (fluorescein uptake concentration with fluorophotometer FL-500), superficial punctate keratopathy (AD classification), and tear film breakup time (TBUT) were assessed before switching and at 12 weeks after switching. No significant differences in intraocular pressure were noted after switching in either group. Corneal epithelial barrier function was improved significantly after switching in both the Tafluprost-containing-preservative and the preservative-free-Tafluprost groups. There were no significant differences in AD scores after switching in the Tafluprost-containing-preservative group, but significant improvements were noted in the preservative-free-Tafluprost group. No significant differences in TBUT were noted in the Tafluprost-containing-preservative or preservative-free-Tafluprost groups after switching. After switching from preservative Latanoprost to Tafluprost containing-preservative or preservative-free Tafluprost, corneal epithelial barrier function was improved while the intraocular pressure reduction was retained.

Comparing models of the periodic variations in spin-down and beamwidth for PSR B1828-11

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashton, G.; Jones, D. I.; Prix, R.

2016-05-01

We build a framework using tools from Bayesian data analysis to evaluate models explaining the periodic variations in spin-down and beamwidth of PSR B1828-11. The available data consist of the time-averaged spin-down rate, which displays a distinctive double-peaked modulation, and measurements of the beamwidth. Two concepts exist in the literature that are capable of explaining these variations; we formulate predictive models from these and quantitatively compare them. The first concept is phenomenological and stipulates that the magnetosphere undergoes periodic switching between two metastable states as first suggested by Lyne et al. The second concept, precession, was first considered as a candidate for the modulation of B1828-11 by Stairs et al. We quantitatively compare models built from these concepts using a Bayesian odds ratio. Because the phenomenological switching model itself was informed by these data in the first place, it is difficult to specify appropriate parameter-space priors that can be trusted for an unbiased model comparison. Therefore, we first perform a parameter estimation using the spin-down data, and then use the resulting posterior distributions as priors for model comparison on the beamwidth data. We find that a precession model with a simple circular Gaussian beam geometry fails to appropriately describe the data, while allowing for a more general beam geometry provides a good fit to the data. The resulting odds between the precession model (with a general beam geometry) and the switching model are estimated as 102.7±0.5 in favour of the precession model.

Design of EPON far-end equipment based on FTTH

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Xiancheng; Yun, Xiang

2008-12-01

Now, most favors fiber access is mainly the EPON fiber access system. Inheriting from the low cost of Ethernet, usability and bandwidth of optical network, EPON technology is one of the best technologies in fiber access and is adopted by the carriers all over the world widely. According to the scheme analysis to FTTH fan-end equipment, hardware design of ONU is proposed in this paper. The FTTH far-end equipment software design deference modulation design concept, it divides the software designment into 5 function modules: the module of low-layer driver, the module of system management, the module of master/slave communication, and the module of main/Standby switch and the module of command line. The software flow of the host computer is also analyzed. Finally, test is made for Ethernet service performance of FTTH far-end equipment, E1 service performance and the optical path protection switching, and so on. The results of test indicates that all the items are accordance with technical request of far-end ONU equipment and possess good quality and fully reach the requirement of telecommunication level equipment. The far-end equipment of FTTH divides into several parts based on the function: the control module, the exchange module, the UNI interface module, the ONU module, the EPON interface module, the network management debugging module, the voice processing module, the circuit simulation module, the CATV module. In the downstream direction, under the protect condition, we design 2 optical modules. The system can set one group optical module working and another group optical module closure when it is initialized. When the optical fiber line is cut off, the LOS warning comes out. It will cause MUX to replace another group optical module, simultaneously will reset module 3701/3711 and will make it again test the distance, and will give the plug board MPC850 report through the GPIO port. During normal mode, the downstream optical signal is transformed into the electrical signal by the optical module. In the upstream direction, the upstream Ethernet data is retransmitted through the exchange chip BCM5380 to the GMII/MII in module 3701/3711, and then is transmitted to EPON port. The 2MB data are transformed the Ethernet data packet in the plug board TDM, then it's transmitted to the interface MII of the module 3701/3711. The software design of FTTH far-end equipment compiles with modulation design concept. According to the system realization duty, the software is divided into 5 function modules: low-level driver module, system management module, master/slave communication module, the man/Standby switch module and the command line module. The FTTH far-end equipment test, is mainly the Ethernet service performance test, E1 service performance test and the optical path protection switching test and so on the key specification test.

Voltage control in pulsed system by predict-ahead control

DOEpatents

Payne, Anthony N.; Watson, James A.; Sampayan, Stephen E.

1994-01-01

A method and apparatus for predict-ahead pulse-to-pulse voltage control in a pulsed power supply system is disclosed. A DC power supply network is coupled to a resonant charging network via a first switch. The resonant charging network is coupled at a node to a storage capacitor. An output load is coupled to the storage capacitor via a second switch. A de-Q-ing network is coupled to the resonant charging network via a third switch. The trigger for the third switch is a derived function of the initial voltage of the power supply network, the initial voltage of the storage capacitor, and the present voltage of the storage capacitor. A first trigger closes the first switch and charges the capacitor. The third trigger is asserted according to the derived function to close the third switch. When the third switch is closed, the first switch opens and voltage on the node is regulated. The second trigger may be thereafter asserted to discharge the capacitor into the output load.

Voltage control in pulsed system by predict-ahead control

DOEpatents

Payne, A.N.; Watson, J.A.; Sampayan, S.E.

1994-09-13

A method and apparatus for predict-ahead pulse-to-pulse voltage control in a pulsed power supply system is disclosed. A DC power supply network is coupled to a resonant charging network via a first switch. The resonant charging network is coupled at a node to a storage capacitor. An output load is coupled to the storage capacitor via a second switch. A de-Q-ing network is coupled to the resonant charging network via a third switch. The trigger for the third switch is a derived function of the initial voltage of the power supply network, the initial voltage of the storage capacitor, and the present voltage of the storage capacitor. A first trigger closes the first switch and charges the capacitor. The third trigger is asserted according to the derived function to close the third switch. When the third switch is closed, the first switch opens and voltage on the node is regulated. The second trigger may be thereafter asserted to discharge the capacitor into the output load. 4 figs.

Characteristics of Single-Event Upsets in a Fabric Switch (ADS151)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buchner, Stephen; Carts, Martin A.; McMorrow, Dale; Kim, Hak; Marshall, Paul W.; LaBel, Kenneth A.

2003-01-01

Abstract-Two types of single event effects - bit errors and single event functional interrupts - were observed during heavy-ion testing of the AD8151 crosspoint switch. Bit errors occurred in bursts with the average number of bits in a burst being dependent on both the ion LET and on the data rate. A pulsed laser was used to identify the locations on the chip where the bit errors and single event functional interrupts occurred. Bit errors originated in the switches, drivers, and output buffers. Single event functional interrupts occurred when the laser was focused on the second rank latch containing the data specifying the state of each switch in the 33x17 matrix.

Input and output constraints-based stabilisation of switched nonlinear systems with unstable subsystems and its application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Chao; Liu, Qian; Zhao, Jun

2018-01-01

This paper studies the problem of stabilisation of switched nonlinear systems with output and input constraints. We propose a recursive approach to solve this issue. None of the subsystems are assumed to be stablisable while the switched system is stabilised by dual design of controllers for subsystems and a switching law. When only dealing with bounded input, we provide nested switching controllers using an extended backstepping procedure. If both input and output constraints are taken into consideration, a Barrier Lyapunov Function is employed during operation to construct multiple Lyapunov functions for switched nonlinear system in the backstepping procedure. As a practical example, the control design of an equilibrium manifold expansion model of aero-engine is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method.

An extensive investigation of work function modulated trapezoidal recessed channel MOSFET

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lenka, Annada Shankar; Mishra, Sikha; Mishra, Satyaranjan; Bhanja, Urmila; Mishra, Guru Prasad

2017-11-01

The concept of silicon on insulator (SOI) and grooved gate help to lessen the short channel effects (SCEs). Again the work function modulation along the metal gate gives a better drain current due to the uniform electric field along the channel. So all these concepts are combined and used in the proposed MOSFET structure for more improved performance. In this work, trapezoidal recessed channel silicon on insulator (TRC-SOI) MOSFET and work function modulated trapezoidal recessed channel silicon on insulator (WFM-TRC-SOI) MOSFET are compared with DC and RF parameters and later linearity of both the devices is tested. An analytical model is formulated by using a 2-D Poisson's equation and develops a compact equation for threshold voltage using minimum surface potential. In this work we analyze the effect of negative junction depth and the corner angle on various device parameters such as minimum surface potential, sub-threshold slope (SS), drain induced barrier lowering (DIBL) and threshold voltage. The analysis interprets that the switching performance of WFM-TRC-SOI MOSFET surpasses TRC-SOI MOSFET in terms of high Ion/Ioff ratio and also the proposed structure can minimize the short channel effects (SCEs) in RF application. The validity of proposed model has been verified with simulation result performed on Sentaurus TCAD device simulator.

Reconfigurable microwave photonic repeater for broadband telecom missions: concepts and technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aveline, M.; Sotom, M.; Barbaste, R.; Benazet, B.; Le Kernec, A.; Magnaval, J.; Ginestet, P.; Navasquillo, O.; Piqueras, M. A.

2017-11-01

Thales Alenia Space has elaborated innovative telecom payload concepts taking benefit from the capabilities of photonics and so-called microwave photonics. The latter consists in transferring RF/microwave signals on optical carriers and performing processing in the optical domain so as to benefit from specific attributes such as wavelength-division multiplexing or switching capabilities.

Demonstration of reconfigurable joint orbital angular momentum mode and space switching

PubMed Central

Liu, Jun; Wang, Jian

2016-01-01

We propose and demonstrate space-selective switch functions employing orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes in the space domain for switching network. One is the switching among different OAM modes having different spatial phase structures, called OAM mode switching. The other is the switching among different space locations, called space switching. The switching operation mechanism relies on linear optics. Reconfigurable 4 × 4 OAM mode switching, space switching, and joint OAM mode and space switching fabric using a single spatial light modulator (SLM) are all demonstrated in the experiment. In addition, the presented OAM-incorporated space-selective switch might be further extended to N × N joint OAM mode and space switching with fast response, scalability, cascading ability and compability to facilitate robust switching applications. PMID:27869133

Demonstration of reconfigurable joint orbital angular momentum mode and space switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Jun; Wang, Jian

2016-11-01

We propose and demonstrate space-selective switch functions employing orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes in the space domain for switching network. One is the switching among different OAM modes having different spatial phase structures, called OAM mode switching. The other is the switching among different space locations, called space switching. The switching operation mechanism relies on linear optics. Reconfigurable 4 × 4 OAM mode switching, space switching, and joint OAM mode and space switching fabric using a single spatial light modulator (SLM) are all demonstrated in the experiment. In addition, the presented OAM-incorporated space-selective switch might be further extended to N × N joint OAM mode and space switching with fast response, scalability, cascading ability and compability to facilitate robust switching applications.

Demonstration of reconfigurable joint orbital angular momentum mode and space switching.

PubMed

Liu, Jun; Wang, Jian

2016-11-21

We propose and demonstrate space-selective switch functions employing orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes in the space domain for switching network. One is the switching among different OAM modes having different spatial phase structures, called OAM mode switching. The other is the switching among different space locations, called space switching. The switching operation mechanism relies on linear optics. Reconfigurable 4 × 4 OAM mode switching, space switching, and joint OAM mode and space switching fabric using a single spatial light modulator (SLM) are all demonstrated in the experiment. In addition, the presented OAM-incorporated space-selective switch might be further extended to N × N joint OAM mode and space switching with fast response, scalability, cascading ability and compability to facilitate robust switching applications.

Concept and design of a beam blanker with integrated photoconductive switch for ultrafast electron microscopy.

PubMed

Weppelman, I G C; Moerland, R J; Hoogenboom, J P; Kruit, P

2018-01-01

We present a new method to create ultrashort electron pulses by integrating a photoconductive switch with an electrostatic deflector. This paper discusses the feasibility of such a system by analytical and numerical calculations. We argue that ultrafast electron pulses can be achieved for micrometer scale dimensions of the blanker, which are feasible with MEMS-based fabrication technology. According to basic models, the design presented in this paper is capable of generating 100 fs electron pulses with spatial resolutions of less than 10 nm. Our concept for an ultrafast beam blanker (UFB) may provide an attractive alternative to perform ultrafast electron microscopy, as it does not require modification of the microscope nor realignment between DC and pulsed mode of operation. Moreover, only low laser pulse energies are required. Due to its small dimensions the UFB can be inserted in the beam line of a commercial microscope via standard entry ports for blankers or variable apertures. The use of a photoconductive switch ensures minimal jitter between laser and electron pulses. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Novel Modulation Method for Multidirectional Matrix Converter

PubMed Central

Misron, Norhisam; Aris, Ishak Bin; Yamada, Hiroaki

2014-01-01

This study presents a new modulation method for multidirectional matrix converter (MDMC), based on the direct duty ratio pulse width modulation (DDPWM). In this study, a new structure of MDMC has been proposed to control the power flow direction through the stand-alone battery based system and hybrid vehicle. The modulation method acts based on the average voltage over one switching period concept. Therefore, in order to determine the duty ratio for each switch, the instantaneous input voltages are captured and compared with triangular waveform continuously. By selecting the proper switching pattern and changing the slope of the carriers, the sinusoidal input current can be synthesized with high power factor and desired output voltage. The proposed system increases the discharging time of the battery by injecting the power to the system from the generator and battery at the same time. Thus, it makes the battery life longer and saves more energy. This paper also derived necessary equation for proposed modulation method as well as detail of analysis and modulation algorithm. The theoretical and modulation concepts presented have been verified in MATLAB simulation. PMID:25298969

An integrated Ka/Ku-band payload for personal, mobile and private business communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hayes, Edward J.; Keelty, J. Malcolm

1991-01-01

The Canadian Department of Communications has been studying options for a government-sponsored demonstration payload to be launched before the end of the century. A summary of the proposed system concepts and network architectures for providing an advanced private business network service at Ku-band and personal and mobile communications at Ka-band is presented. The system aspects addressed include coverage patterns, traffic capacity, and grade of service, multiple access options as well as special problems, such as Doppler in mobile applications. Earth terminal types and the advanced payload concept proposed in a feasibility study for the demonstration mission are described. This concept is a combined Ka-band/Ku-band payload which incorporates a number of advanced satellite technologies including a group demodulator to convert single-channel-per-carrier frequency division multiple access uplink signals to a time division multiplex downlink, on-board signal regeneration, and baseband switching to support packet switched data operation. The on-board processing capability of the payload provides a hubless VSAT architecture which permits single-hop full mesh interconnectivity. The Ka-band and Ku-band portions of the payload are fully integrated through an on-board switch, thereby providing the capability for fully integrated services, such as using the Ku-band VSAT terminals as gateway stations for the Ka-band personal and mobile communications services.

Iii-V Compound Multiple Quantum Well Based Modulator and Switching Devices.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong, Songcheol

A general formalism to study the absorption and photocurrent in multiple quantum well is provided with detailed consideration of quantum confined Stark shift, exciton binding energy, line broadening, tunneling, polarization, and strain effects. Results on variation of exciton size, binding energies and transition energies as a function electric field and well size have been presented. Inhomogeneous line broadening of exciton lines due to interface roughness, alloy disorder and well to well size fluctuation is calculated. The potential of material tailoring by introducing strain for specific optical response is discussed. Theoretical and experimental results on excitonic and band-to-band absorption spectra in strained multi-quantum well structures are shown. I also report on polarization dependent optical absorption for excitonic and interband transitions in lattice matched and strained multiquantum well structures in presence of transverse electric field. Photocurrent in a p-i(MQW)-n diode with monochromatic light is examined with respect to different temperatures and intensities. The negative resistance of I-V characteristic of the p-i-n diode is based on the quantum confined Stark effect of the heavy hole excitonic transition in a multiquantum well. This exciton based photocurrent characteristic allows efficient switching. A general purpose low power optical logic device using the controller-modulator concept bas been proposed and realized. The controller is a heterojunction phototransistor with multiquantum wells in the base-collector depletion region. This allows an amplified photocurrent controlled voltage feedback with low light intensity levels. Detailed analysis of the sensitivity of this device in various modes of operation is studied. Studies are also presented on the cascadability of the device as well as its integrating -thresholding properties. A multiquantum well heterojunction bipolar transistor (MHBT), which has N^+ -p^+-i(MQW)-N structure has been fabricated to test the concept. Gain (>30) is obtained in the MBE grown devices and efficient switching occurs due to the amplification of the exciton based photocurrent. The level shift operation of the base contacted MHBT are demonstrated.

Asymmetric photon transport in organic semiconductor nanowires through electrically controlled exciton diffusion

PubMed Central

Cui, Qiu Hong; Peng, Qian; Luo, Yi; Jiang, Yuqian; Yan, Yongli; Wei, Cong; Shuai, Zhigang; Sun, Cheng; Yao, Jiannian; Zhao, Yong Sheng

2018-01-01

The ability to steer the flow of light toward desired propagation directions is critically important for the realization of key functionalities in optical communication and information processing. Although various schemes have been proposed for this purpose, the lack of capability to incorporate an external electric field to effectively tune the light propagation has severely limited the on-chip integration of photonics and electronics. Because of the noninteractive nature of photons, it is only possible to electrically control the flow of light by modifying the refractive index of materials through the electro-optic effect. However, the weak optical effects need to be strongly amplified for practical applications in high-density photonic integrations. We show a new strategy that takes advantage of the strong exciton-photon coupling in active waveguides to effectively manipulate photon transport by controlling the interaction between excitons and the external electric field. Single-crystal organic semiconductor nanowires were used to generate highly stable Frenkel exciton polaritons with strong binding and diffusion abilities. By making use of directional exciton diffusion in an external electric field, we have realized an electrically driven asymmetric photon transport and thus directional light propagation in a single nanowire. With this new concept, we constructed a dual-output single wire–based device to build an electrically controlled single-pole double-throw optical switch with fast temporal response and high switching frequency. Our findings may lead to the innovation of concepts and device architectures for optical information processing. PMID:29556529

Effects of digital game-based learning on student engagement and academic achievement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Little, Timothy W.

This experimental study was designed to determine the effect of digital game-based learning on student engagement and academic achievement. The sample was comprised of 34 students enrolled in a secondary Biology class in a rural public school. The study utilized an experimental pretest-posttest design with switching replications. After random assignment, students participated in one of two supplemental learning activities: playing a digital game designed to review science concepts or participating in a lab to review the same concepts. Students subsequently switched activities. Student achievement data were collected on mastery of science concepts, and student engagement data were collected utilizing self- and teacher-reported measures. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures. Results demonstrated that the digital game was as effective as the lab activity at increasing teacher-reported student engagement and academic achievement. These findings may be of interest to school administrators or directors of teacher preparation programs on the potential effectiveness of digital games as a learning tool.

49 CFR 236.775 - Movement, switch-and-lock.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Movement, switch-and-lock. 236.775 Section 236.775... Movement, switch-and-lock. A device, the complete operation of which performs the three functions of unlocking, operating and locking a switch, movable-point frog or derail. ...

49 CFR 236.775 - Movement, switch-and-lock.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Movement, switch-and-lock. 236.775 Section 236.775... Movement, switch-and-lock. A device, the complete operation of which performs the three functions of unlocking, operating and locking a switch, movable-point frog or derail. ...

49 CFR 236.775 - Movement, switch-and-lock.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Movement, switch-and-lock. 236.775 Section 236.775... Movement, switch-and-lock. A device, the complete operation of which performs the three functions of unlocking, operating and locking a switch, movable-point frog or derail. ...

49 CFR 236.775 - Movement, switch-and-lock.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Movement, switch-and-lock. 236.775 Section 236.775... Movement, switch-and-lock. A device, the complete operation of which performs the three functions of unlocking, operating and locking a switch, movable-point frog or derail. ...

Maximal feeding with active prey-switching: A kill-the-winner functional response and its effect on global diversity and biogeography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vallina, S. M.; Ward, B. A.; Dutkiewicz, S.; Follows, M. J.

2014-01-01

Predators' switching towards the most abundant prey is a mechanism that stabilizes population dynamics and helps overcome competitive exclusion of species in food webs. Current formulations of active prey-switching, however, display non-maximal feeding in which the predators' total ingestion decays exponentially with the number prey species (i.e. the diet breadth) even though the total prey biomass stays constant. We analyse three previously published multi-species functional responses which have either active switching or maximal feeding, but not both. We identify the cause of this apparent incompatibility and describe a kill-the-winner formulation that combines active switching with maximal feeding. Active switching is shown to be a community response in which some predators become prey-selective and the formulations with maximal or non-maximal feeding are implicitly assuming different food web configurations. Global simulations using a marine ecosystem model with 64 phytoplankton species belonging to 4 major functional groups show that the species richness and biogeography of phytoplankton are very sensitive to the choice of the functional response for grazing. The phytoplankton biogeography reflects the balance between the competitive abilities for nutrient uptake and the degree of apparent competition which occurs indirectly between species that share a common predator species. The phytoplankton diversity significantly increases when active switching is combined with maximal feeding through predator-mediated coexistence.

Characterization for the performance of capacitive switches activated by mechanical shock.

PubMed

Younis, Mohammad I; Alsaleem, Fadi M; Miles, Ronald; Su, Quang

2007-01-01

This paper presents experimental and theoretical investigation of a new concept of switches (triggers) that are actuated at or beyond a specific level of mechanical shock or acceleration. The principle of operation of the switches is based on dynamic pull-in instability induced by the combined interaction between electrostatic and mechanical shock forces. These switches can be tuned to be activated at various shock and acceleration thresholds by adjusting the DC voltage bias. Two commercial off-the-shelf capacitive accelerometers operating in air are tested under mechanical shock and electrostatic loading. A single-degree-of-freedom model accounting for squeeze-film damping, electrostatic forces, and mechanical shock is utilized for the theoretical investigation. Good agreement is found between simulation results and experimental data. Our results indicate that designing these new switches to respond quasi-statically to mechanical shock makes them robust against variations in shock shape and duration. More importantly, quasi-static operation makes the switches insensitive to variations in damping conditions. This can be promising to lower the cost of packaging for these switches since they can operate in atmospheric pressure with no hermetic sealing or costly package required.

Single Active Switch PV Inverter

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ramanan, V. R.; Pan, Zhiguo

This report presents a new PV inverter topology that uses only one active switch instead of 7 active switches in a conventional PV inverter. It has a buck boost converter and operates at discontinuous current control mode, which can reduce the output stage from an active switch bridge to a thyristor bridge. This concept, if successfully demonstrated, may have great cost and size/weight benefits over conventional solutions. Since the proposed topology is completely different from the traditional boost converter plus voltage source inverter approach, there is no existing control/modulation scheme available. A new modulation scheme for both the main switchmore » and the thyristors has been developed. An active clamping circuit has also been proposed to reduce switching losses and voltage spike during the switching transient. A simulation model has been set up to validate the control algorithm and clamping circuit. Simulated results show that a proposed 10 kW PV inverter can reach 5% total harmonic distortion (THD), 98.8% peak efficiency with only one main active switch, and an inductor weighing less than 3 kg. Based on that, a 10 kW prototype converter has been designed and built.« less

Characterization for the performance of capacitive switches activated by mechanical shock

PubMed Central

Younis, Mohammad I.; Alsaleem, Fadi M; Miles, Ronald; Su, Quang

2009-01-01

This paper presents experimental and theoretical investigation of a new concept of switches (triggers) that are actuated at or beyond a specific level of mechanical shock or acceleration. The principle of operation of the switches is based on dynamic pull-in instability induced by the combined interaction between electrostatic and mechanical shock forces. These switches can be tuned to be activated at various shock and acceleration thresholds by adjusting the DC voltage bias. Two commercial off-the-shelf capacitive accelerometers operating in air are tested under mechanical shock and electrostatic loading. A single-degree-of-freedom model accounting for squeeze-film damping, electrostatic forces, and mechanical shock is utilized for the theoretical investigation. Good agreement is found between simulation results and experimental data. Our results indicate that designing these new switches to respond quasi-statically to mechanical shock makes them robust against variations in shock shape and duration. More importantly, quasi-static operation makes the switches insensitive to variations in damping conditions. This can be promising to lower the cost of packaging for these switches since they can operate in atmospheric pressure with no hermetic sealing or costly package required. PMID:21720493

Principles of dynamical modularity in biological regulatory networks

PubMed Central

Deritei, Dávid; Aird, William C.; Ercsey-Ravasz, Mária; Regan, Erzsébet Ravasz

2016-01-01

Intractable diseases such as cancer are associated with breakdown in multiple individual functions, which conspire to create unhealthy phenotype-combinations. An important challenge is to decipher how these functions are coordinated in health and disease. We approach this by drawing on dynamical systems theory. We posit that distinct phenotype-combinations are generated by interactions among robust regulatory switches, each in control of a discrete set of phenotypic outcomes. First, we demonstrate the advantage of characterizing multi-switch regulatory systems in terms of their constituent switches by building a multiswitch cell cycle model which points to novel, testable interactions critical for early G2/M commitment to division. Second, we define quantitative measures of dynamical modularity, namely that global cell states are discrete combinations of switch-level phenotypes. Finally, we formulate three general principles that govern the way coupled switches coordinate their function. PMID:26979940

ISDN at NASA Lewis Research Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bakes, Catherine Murphy; Goldberg, Fredric; Eubanks, Steven W.

1992-01-01

An expository investigation of the potential impact of the Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) at NASA Lewis Research Center is described. To properly frame the subject, the paper contains a detailed survey of the components of Narrowband ISDN. The principles and objectives are presented as decreed by the Consultative Committee for International Telephone and Telegraph (CCITT). The various channel types are delineated and their associated service combinations are described. The subscriber-access network functions are explained pictorially via the ISDN reference configuration. A section on switching techniques is presented to enable the reader to understand the emergence of the concept of fast packet switching. This new technology is designed to operate over the high bandwidth, low error rate transmission media that characterizes the LeRC environment. A brief introduction to the next generation of networks is covered with sections on Broadband ISDM (B-ISDN), Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), and Synchronous Optical Networks (SONET). Applications at LeRC are presented, first in terms of targets of opportunity, then in light of compatibility constraints. In-place pilot projects and testing are described that demonstrate actual usage at LeRC.

High speed all optical networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chlamtac, Imrich; Ganz, Aura

1990-01-01

An inherent problem of conventional point-to-point wide area network (WAN) architectures is that they cannot translate optical transmission bandwidth into comparable user available throughput due to the limiting electronic processing speed of the switching nodes. The first solution to wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) based WAN networks that overcomes this limitation is presented. The proposed Lightnet architecture takes into account the idiosyncrasies of WDM switching/transmission leading to an efficient and pragmatic solution. The Lightnet architecture trades the ample WDM bandwidth for a reduction in the number of processing stages and a simplification of each switching stage, leading to drastically increased effective network throughputs. The principle of the Lightnet architecture is the construction and use of virtual topology networks, embedded in the original network in the wavelength domain. For this construction Lightnets utilize the new concept of lightpaths which constitute the links of the virtual topology. Lightpaths are all-optical, multihop, paths in the network that allow data to be switched through intermediate nodes using high throughput passive optical switches. The use of the virtual topologies and the associated switching design introduce a number of new ideas, which are discussed in detail.

Experience with PACS in an ATM/Ethernet switched network environment.

PubMed

Pelikan, E; Ganser, A; Kotter, E; Schrader, U; Timmermann, U

1998-03-01

Legacy local area network (LAN) technologies based on shared media concepts are not adequate for the growth of a large-scale picture archiving and communication system (PACS) in a client-server architecture. First, an asymmetric network load, due to the requests of a large number of PACS clients for only a few main servers, should be compensated by communication links to the servers with a higher bandwidth compared to the clients. Secondly, as the number of PACS nodes increases, the network throughout should not measurably cut production. These requirements can easily be fulfilled using switching technologies. Here asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) is clearly one of the hottest topics in networking because the ATM architecture provides integrated support for a variety of communication services, and it supports virtual networking. On the other hand, most of the imaging modalities are not yet ready for integration into a native ATM network. For a lot of nodes already joining an Ethernet, a cost-effective and pragmatic way to benefit from the switching concept would be a combined ATM/Ethernet switching environment. This incorporates an incremental migration strategy with the immediate benefits of high-speed, high-capacity ATM (for servers and high-sophisticated display workstations), while preserving elements of the existing network technologies. In addition, Ethernet switching instead of shared media Ethernet improves the performance considerably. The LAN emulation (LANE) specification by the ATM forum defines mechanisms that allow ATM networks to coexist with legacy systems using any data networking protocol. This paper points out the suitability of this network architecture in accordance with an appropriate system design.

Experimental realization of a CMOS-compatible optical directed priority encoder using cascaded micro-ring resonators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Huifu; Li, Dezhao; Liu, Zilong; Han, Xu; Chen, Wenping; Zhao, Ting; Tian, Yonghui; Yang, Jianhong

2018-03-01

In this paper, we propose and experimentally demonstrate an integrated optical device that can implement the logical function of priority encoding from a 4-bit electrical signal to a 2-bit optical signal. For the proof of concept, the thermo-optic modulation scheme is adopted to tune each micro-ring resonator (MRR). A monochromatic light with the working wavelength is coupled into the input port of the device through a lensed fiber, and the four input electrical logic signals regarded as pending encode signals are applied to the micro-heaters above four MRRs to control the working states of the optical switches. The encoding results are directed to the output ports in the form of light. At last, the logical function of priority encoding with an operation speed of 10 Kbps is demonstrated successfully.

Patients with Fabry Disease after Enzyme Replacement Therapy Dose Reduction and Switch-2-Year Follow-Up.

PubMed

Lenders, Malte; Canaan-Kühl, Sima; Krämer, Johannes; Duning, Thomas; Reiermann, Stefanie; Sommer, Claudia; Stypmann, Jörg; Blaschke, Daniela; Üçeyler, Nurcan; Hense, Hans-Werner; Brand, Stefan-Martin; Wanner, Christoph; Weidemann, Frank; Brand, Eva

2016-03-01

Because of the shortage of agalsidase-β supply between 2009 and 2012, patients with Fabry disease either were treated with reduced doses or were switched to agalsidase-α. In this observational study, we assessed end organ damage and clinical symptoms with special focus on renal outcome after 2 years of dose-reduction and/or switch to agalsidase-α. A total of 89 adult patients with Fabry disease who had received agalsidase-β (1.0 mg/kg body wt) for >1 year were nonrandomly assigned to continue this treatment regimen (regular-dose group, n=24), to receive a reduced dose of 0.3-0.5 mg/kg and a subsequent switch to 0.2 mg/kg agalsidase-α (dose-reduction-switch group, n=28), or to directly switch to 0.2 mg/kg agalsidase-α (switch group, n=37) and were followed-up for 2 years. We assessed clinical events (death, myocardial infarction, severe arrhythmia, stroke, progression to ESRD), changes in cardiac and renal function, Fabry-related symptoms (pain, hypohidrosis, diarrhea), and disease severity scores. Determination of renal function by creatinine and cystatin C-based eGFR revealed decreasing eGFRs in the dose-reduction-switch group and the switch group. The Mainz Severity Score Index increased significantly in these two groups (P=0.02 and P<0.001, respectively), and higher frequencies of gastrointestinal pain occurred during follow-up. In conclusion, after 2 years of observation, all groups showed a stable clinical disease course with respect to serious clinical events. However, patients under agalsidase-β dose-reduction and switch or a direct switch to agalsidase-α showed a decline of renal function independent of the eGFR formula used. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Nephrology.

Engineering of ribozyme-based aminoglycoside switches of gene expression by in vivo genetic selection in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed

Klauser, Benedikt; Rehm, Charlotte; Summerer, Daniel; Hartig, Jörg S

2015-01-01

Synthetic RNA-based switches are a growing class of genetic controllers applied in synthetic biology to engineer cellular functions. In this chapter, we detail a protocol for the selection of posttranscriptional controllers of gene expression in yeast using the Schistosoma mansoni hammerhead ribozyme as a central catalytic unit. Incorporation of a small molecule-sensing aptamer domain into the ribozyme renders its activity ligand-dependent. Aptazymes display numerous advantages over conventional protein-based transcriptional controllers, namely, the use of little genomic space for encryption, their modular architecture allowing for easy reprogramming to new inputs, the physical linkage to the message to be controlled, and the ability to function without protein cofactors. Herein, we describe the method to select ribozyme-based switches of gene expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae that we successfully implemented to engineer neomycin- and theophylline-responsive switches. We also highlight how to adapt the protocol to screen for switches responsive to other ligands. Reprogramming of the sensor unit and incorporation into any RNA of interest enables the fulfillment of a variety of regulatory functions. However, proper functioning of the aptazyme is largely dependent on optimal connection between the aptamer and the catalytic core. We obtained functional switches from a pool of variants carrying randomized connection sequences by an in vivo selection in MaV203 yeast cells that allows screening of a large sequence space of up to 1×10(9) variants. The protocol given explains how to construct aptazyme libraries, carry out the in vivo selection and characterize novel ON- and OFF-switches. © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Research and Development of Anti-G Life Support Systems. Part 1. Development and Evaluation of Uniform-Pressure Anti-G Suits

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-04-01

Pressure Switch Control Circuit . . . . . . ........ 14 13. Pressure Switch Calibration Fixture . . .......... 16...with the pressure switch control oirouit boards. The solenoid oonneoto (SOL) interfaces with the PCD, while the function of the pressure switch (PRESS...signal out 4 Pressure switch (415 VDC) 5 Pressure switch return 6 + 15 VDC CVCC) V 15 VDC (VEE) 8 Instrument ground 9 open 10 Open 11 115 VAC hot (Blk)

Fast packet switch architectures for broadband integrated services digital networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tobagi, Fouad A.

1990-01-01

Background information on networking and switching is provided, and the various architectures that have been considered for fast packet switches are described. The focus is solely on switches designed to be implemented electronically. A set of definitions and a brief description of the functionality required of fast packet switches are given. Three basic types of packet switches are identified: the shared-memory, shared-medium, and space-division types. Each of these is described, and examples are given.

Modality Switching in a Property Verification Task: An ERP Study of What Happens When Candles Flicker after High Heels Click

PubMed Central

Collins, Jennifer; Pecher, Diane; Zeelenberg, René; Coulson, Seana

2011-01-01

The perceptual modalities associated with property words, such as flicker or click, have previously been demonstrated to affect subsequent property verification judgments (Pecher et al., 2003). Known as the conceptual modality switch effect, this finding supports the claim that brain systems for perception and action help subserve the representation of concepts. The present study addressed the cognitive and neural substrate of this effect by recording event-related potentials (ERPs) as participants performed a property verification task with visual or auditory properties in key trials. We found that for visual property verifications, modality switching was associated with an increased amplitude N400. For auditory verifications, switching led to a larger late positive complex. Observed ERP effects of modality switching suggest property words access perceptual brain systems. Moreover, the timing and pattern of the effects suggest perceptual systems impact the decision-making stage in the verification of auditory properties, and the semantic stage in the verification of visual properties. PMID:21713128

Modality Switching in a Property Verification Task: An ERP Study of What Happens When Candles Flicker after High Heels Click.

PubMed

Collins, Jennifer; Pecher, Diane; Zeelenberg, René; Coulson, Seana

2011-01-01

The perceptual modalities associated with property words, such as flicker or click, have previously been demonstrated to affect subsequent property verification judgments (Pecher et al., 2003). Known as the conceptual modality switch effect, this finding supports the claim that brain systems for perception and action help subserve the representation of concepts. The present study addressed the cognitive and neural substrate of this effect by recording event-related potentials (ERPs) as participants performed a property verification task with visual or auditory properties in key trials. We found that for visual property verifications, modality switching was associated with an increased amplitude N400. For auditory verifications, switching led to a larger late positive complex. Observed ERP effects of modality switching suggest property words access perceptual brain systems. Moreover, the timing and pattern of the effects suggest perceptual systems impact the decision-making stage in the verification of auditory properties, and the semantic stage in the verification of visual properties.

Stimulation of contacts in ventral but not dorsal subthalamic nucleus normalizes response switching in Parkinson's disease

PubMed Central

Greenhouse, Ian; Gould, Sherrie; Houser, Melissa; Aron, Adam R.

2014-01-01

Switching between responses is a key executive function known to rely on the frontal cortex and the basal ganglia. Here we aimed to establish with greater anatomical specificity whether such switching could be mediated via different possible frontal–basal-ganglia circuits. Accordingly, we stimulated dorsal vs. ventral contacts of electrodes in the subthalamic nucleus (STN) in Parkinson's patients during switching performance, and also studied matched controls. The patients underwent three sessions: once with bilateral dorsal contact stimulation, once with bilateral ventral contact stimulation, and once Off stimulation. Patients Off stimulation showed abnormal patterns of switching, and stimulation of the ventral contacts but not the dorsal contacts normalized the pattern of behavior relative to controls. This provides some of the first evidence in humans that stimulation of dorsal vs. ventral STN DBS contacts has differential effects on executive function. As response switching is an executive function known to rely on prefrontal cortex, these results suggest that ventral contact stimulation affected an executive/associative cortico-basal ganglia circuit. PMID:23562963

SNS Heterojunctions With New Combinations Of Materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vasquez, Richard P.; Hunt, Brian D.; Foote, Marc C.

1992-01-01

New combinations of materials proposed for superconductor/normal-metal/superconductor (SNS) heterojunctions in low-temperature electronic devices such as fast switches, magnetometers, and mixers. Epitaxial heterojunctions formed between high-temperature superconductors and either oxide semiconductors or metals. Concept offers alternative to other three-layer heterojunction concepts; physical principles of operation permit SNS devices to have thicker barrier layers and fabricated more easily.

Tools for Brain-Computer Interaction: A General Concept for a Hybrid BCI

PubMed Central

Müller-Putz, Gernot R.; Breitwieser, Christian; Cincotti, Febo; Leeb, Robert; Schreuder, Martijn; Leotta, Francesco; Tavella, Michele; Bianchi, Luigi; Kreilinger, Alex; Ramsay, Andrew; Rohm, Martin; Sagebaum, Max; Tonin, Luca; Neuper, Christa; Millán, José del. R.

2011-01-01

The aim of this work is to present the development of a hybrid Brain-Computer Interface (hBCI) which combines existing input devices with a BCI. Thereby, the BCI should be available if the user wishes to extend the types of inputs available to an assistive technology system, but the user can also choose not to use the BCI at all; the BCI is active in the background. The hBCI might decide on the one hand which input channel(s) offer the most reliable signal(s) and switch between input channels to improve information transfer rate, usability, or other factors, or on the other hand fuse various input channels. One major goal therefore is to bring the BCI technology to a level where it can be used in a maximum number of scenarios in a simple way. To achieve this, it is of great importance that the hBCI is able to operate reliably for long periods, recognizing and adapting to changes as it does so. This goal is only possible if many different subsystems in the hBCI can work together. Since one research institute alone cannot provide such different functionality, collaboration between institutes is necessary. To allow for such a collaboration, a new concept and common software framework is introduced. It consists of four interfaces connecting the classical BCI modules: signal acquisition, preprocessing, feature extraction, classification, and the application. But it provides also the concept of fusion and shared control. In a proof of concept, the functionality of the proposed system was demonstrated. PMID:22131973

Children's Task-Switching Efficiency: Missing Our Cue?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holt, Anna E.; Deák, Gedeon

2015-01-01

In simple rule-switching tests, 3- and 4-year-olds can follow each of two sorting rules but sometimes make perseverative errors when switching. Older children make few errors but respond slowly when switching. These age-related changes might reflect the maturation of executive functions (e.g., inhibition). However, they might also reflect…

An improved push-pull voltage fed converter using a tapped output-filter inductor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wester, G. W.

1983-01-01

A new concept of using a tapped output-filter inductor and an auxiliary commutating diode to reduce the likelihood of transformer core saturation in a push-pull, voltage-fed converter is presented. The linearized circuit model and transfer functions are derived with a hybrid approach using both state-space and circuit averaging. Operation of the new converter - including parasitic effects - is discussed, and a design equation for inductor tap ratio is established. It is predicted and experimentally confirmed that the new converter has more symmetrical transformer core operation, and the potential exits for lower transistor turnon current and reduced transistor voltage stress. These benefits reduce switching loss and enhance transistor reliability.

Tunable bi-functional photonic device based on one-dimensional photonic crystal infiltrated with a bistable liquid-crystal layer.

PubMed

Wu, Chong-Yin; Zou, Yi-Hong; Timofeev, Ivan; Lin, Yu-Ting; Zyryanov, Victor Ya; Hsu, Jy-Shan; Lee, Wei

2011-04-11

We investigated the optical properties of a one-dimensional photonic crystal infiltrated with a bistable chiral tilted homeotropic nematic liquid crystal as the central defect layer. By modulating the nematic director orientation with applied voltage, the electrical tunability of the defect modes was observed in the transmission spectrum. The composite not only is a general tunable device but also involves the green concept in that it can operate in two stable states at 0 V. Under the parallel-polarizer scheme, the spectral characteristics suggest a potential application for this device as an energy-efficient multichannel optical switch. © 2011 Optical Society of America

An Evolutionary Perspective on Yeast Mating-Type Switching

PubMed Central

Hanson, Sara J.; Wolfe, Kenneth H.

2017-01-01

Cell differentiation in yeast species is controlled by a reversible, programmed DNA-rearrangement process called mating-type switching. Switching is achieved by two functionally similar but structurally distinct processes in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. In both species, haploid cells possess one active and two silent copies of the mating-type locus (a three-cassette structure), the active locus is cleaved, and synthesis-dependent strand annealing is used to replace it with a copy of a silent locus encoding the opposite mating-type information. Each species has its own set of components responsible for regulating these processes. In this review, we summarize knowledge about the function and evolution of mating-type switching components in these species, including mechanisms of heterochromatin formation, MAT locus cleavage, donor bias, lineage tracking, and environmental regulation of switching. We compare switching in these well-studied species to others such as Kluyveromyces lactis and the methylotrophic yeasts Ogataea polymorpha and Komagataella phaffii. We focus on some key questions: Which cells switch mating type? What molecular apparatus is required for switching? Where did it come from? And what is the evolutionary purpose of switching? PMID:28476860

A novel adaptive switching function on fault tolerable sliding mode control for uncertain stochastic systems.

PubMed

Zahiripour, Seyed Ali; Jalali, Ali Akbar

2014-09-01

A novel switching function based on an optimization strategy for the sliding mode control (SMC) method has been provided for uncertain stochastic systems subject to actuator degradation such that the closed-loop system is globally asymptotically stable with probability one. In the previous researches the focus on sliding surface has been on proportional or proportional-integral function of states. In this research, from a degree of freedom that depends on designer choice is used to meet certain objectives. In the design of the switching function, there is a parameter which the designer can regulate for specified objectives. A sliding-mode controller is synthesized to ensure the reachability of the specified switching surface, despite actuator degradation and uncertainties. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Copyright © 2014 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Intelligent switches of integrated lightwave circuits with core telecommunication functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Izhaky, Nahum; Duer, Reuven; Berns, Neil; Tal, Eran; Vinikman, Shirly; Schoenwald, Jeffrey S.; Shani, Yosi

2001-05-01

We present a brief overview of a promising switching technology based on Silica on Silicon thermo-optic integrated circuits. This is basically a 2D solid-state optical device capable of non-blocking switching operation. Except of its excellent performance (insertion loss<5dB, switching time<2ms...), the switch enables additional important build-in functionalities. It enables single-to- single channel switching and single-to-multiple channel multicasting/broadcasting. In addition, it has the capability of channel weighting and variable output power control (attenuation), for instance, to equalize signal levels and compensate for unbalanced different optical input powers, or to equalize unbalanced EDFA gain curve. We examine the market segments appropriate for the switch size and technology, followed by a discussion of the basic features of the technology. The discussion is focused on important requirements from the switch and the technology (e.g., insertion loss, power consumption, channel isolation, extinction ratio, switching time, and heat dissipation). The mechanical design is also considered. It must take into account integration of optical fiber, optical planar wafer, analog electronics and digital microprocessor controls, embedded software, and heating power dissipation. The Lynx Photon.8x8 switch is compared to competing technologies, in terms of typical market performance requirements.

GaN Microwave DC-DC Converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramos Franco, Ignacio

Increasing the operating frequency of switching converters can have a direct impact in the miniaturization and integration of power converters. The size of energy-storage passive components and the difficulty to integrate them with the rest of the circuitry is a major challenge in the development of a fully integrated power supply on a chip. The work presented in this thesis attempts to address some of the difficulties encountered in the design of high-frequency converters by applying concepts and techniques usually used in the design of high-efficiency power amplifiers and high-efficiency rectifiers at microwave frequencies. The main focus is in the analysis, design, and characterization of dc-dc converters operating at microwave frequencies in the low gigahertz range. The concept of PA-rectifier duality, where a high-efficiency power amplifier operates as a high-efficiency rectifier is investigated through non-linear simulations and experimentally validated. Additionally, the concept of a self-synchronous rectifier, where a transistor rectifier operates synchronously without the need of a RF source or driver is demonstrated. A theoretical analysis of a class-E self-synchronous rectifier is presented and validated through non-linear simulations and experiments. Two GaN class-E2 dc-dc converters operating at a switching frequency of 1 and 1.2 GHz are demonstrated. The converters achieve 80 % and 75 % dc-dc efficiency respectively and are among the highest-frequency and highest-efficiency reported in the literature. The application of the concepts established in the analysis of a self-synchronous rectifier to a power amplifier culminated in the development of an oscillating, self-synchronous class-E 2 dc-dc converter. Finally, a proof-of-concept fully integrated GaN MMIC class-E 2 dc-dc converter switching at 4.6 GHz is demonstrated for the first time to the best of our knowledge. The 3.8 mm x 2.6 mm chip contains distributed inductors and does not require any external components. The maximum measured dc-dc efficiency is approximately 45%.

Electronic switching circuit uses complementary non-linear components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zucker, O. S.

1972-01-01

Inherent switching properties of saturable inductors and storage diodes are combined to perform large variety of electronic functions, such as pulse shaping, gating, and multiplexing. Passive elements replace active switching devices in generation of complex waveforms.

Patients with Fabry Disease after Enzyme Replacement Therapy Dose Reduction and Switch–2-Year Follow-Up

PubMed Central

Lenders, Malte; Canaan-Kühl, Sima; Krämer, Johannes; Duning, Thomas; Reiermann, Stefanie; Sommer, Claudia; Stypmann, Jörg; Blaschke, Daniela; Üçeyler, Nurcan; Hense, Hans-Werner; Brand, Stefan-Martin; Wanner, Christoph; Weidemann, Frank

2016-01-01

Because of the shortage of agalsidase-β supply between 2009 and 2012, patients with Fabry disease either were treated with reduced doses or were switched to agalsidase-α. In this observational study, we assessed end organ damage and clinical symptoms with special focus on renal outcome after 2 years of dose-reduction and/or switch to agalsidase-α. A total of 89 adult patients with Fabry disease who had received agalsidase-β (1.0 mg/kg body wt) for >1 year were nonrandomly assigned to continue this treatment regimen (regular-dose group, n=24), to receive a reduced dose of 0.3–0.5 mg/kg and a subsequent switch to 0.2 mg/kg agalsidase-α (dose-reduction-switch group, n=28), or to directly switch to 0.2 mg/kg agalsidase-α (switch group, n=37) and were followed-up for 2 years. We assessed clinical events (death, myocardial infarction, severe arrhythmia, stroke, progression to ESRD), changes in cardiac and renal function, Fabry-related symptoms (pain, hypohidrosis, diarrhea), and disease severity scores. Determination of renal function by creatinine and cystatin C–based eGFR revealed decreasing eGFRs in the dose-reduction-switch group and the switch group. The Mainz Severity Score Index increased significantly in these two groups (P=0.02 and P<0.001, respectively), and higher frequencies of gastrointestinal pain occurred during follow-up. In conclusion, after 2 years of observation, all groups showed a stable clinical disease course with respect to serious clinical events. However, patients under agalsidase-β dose-reduction and switch or a direct switch to agalsidase-α showed a decline of renal function independent of the eGFR formula used. PMID:26185201

Base compaction specification feasibility analysis.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-12-01

The objective of this research is to establish the technical engineering and cost : analysis concepts that will enable WisDOT management to objectively evaluate the : feasibility of switching construction specification philosophies for aggregate base...

A generalized functional response for predators that switch between multiple prey species.

PubMed

van Leeuwen, E; Brännström, Å; Jansen, V A A; Dieckmann, U; Rossberg, A G

2013-07-07

We develop a theory for the food intake of a predator that can switch between multiple prey species. The theory addresses empirical observations of prey switching and is based on the behavioural assumption that a predator tends to continue feeding on prey that are similar to the prey it has consumed last, in terms of, e.g., their morphology, defences, location, habitat choice, or behaviour. From a predator's dietary history and the assumed similarity relationship among prey species, we derive a general closed-form multi-species functional response for describing predators switching between multiple prey species. Our theory includes the Holling type II functional response as a special case and makes consistent predictions when populations of equivalent prey are aggregated or split. An analysis of the derived functional response enables us to highlight the following five main findings. (1) Prey switching leads to an approximate power-law relationship between ratios of prey abundance and prey intake, consistent with experimental data. (2) In agreement with empirical observations, the theory predicts an upper limit of 2 for the exponent of such power laws. (3) Our theory predicts deviations from power-law switching at very low and very high prey-abundance ratios. (4) The theory can predict the diet composition of a predator feeding on multiple prey species from diet observations for predators feeding only on pairs of prey species. (5) Predators foraging on more prey species will show less pronounced prey switching than predators foraging on fewer prey species, thus providing a natural explanation for the known difficulties of observing prey switching in the field. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Logic computation in phase change materials by threshold and memory switching.

PubMed

Cassinerio, M; Ciocchini, N; Ielmini, D

2013-11-06

Memristors, namely hysteretic devices capable of changing their resistance in response to applied electrical stimuli, may provide new opportunities for future memory and computation, thanks to their scalable size, low switching energy and nonvolatile nature. We have developed a functionally complete set of logic functions including NOR, NAND and NOT gates, each utilizing a single phase-change memristor (PCM) where resistance switching is due to the phase transformation of an active chalcogenide material. The logic operations are enabled by the high functionality of nanoscale phase change, featuring voltage comparison, additive crystallization and pulse-induced amorphization. The nonvolatile nature of memristive states provides the basis for developing reconfigurable hybrid logic/memory circuits featuring low-power and high-speed switching. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

A novel global Harmony Search method based on Ant Colony Optimisation algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fouad, Allouani; Boukhetala, Djamel; Boudjema, Fares; Zenger, Kai; Gao, Xiao-Zhi

2016-03-01

The Global-best Harmony Search (GHS) is a stochastic optimisation algorithm recently developed, which hybridises the Harmony Search (HS) method with the concept of swarm intelligence in the particle swarm optimisation (PSO) to enhance its performance. In this article, a new optimisation algorithm called GHSACO is developed by incorporating the GHS with the Ant Colony Optimisation algorithm (ACO). Our method introduces a novel improvisation process, which is different from that of the GHS in the following aspects. (i) A modified harmony memory (HM) representation and conception. (ii) The use of a global random switching mechanism to monitor the choice between the ACO and GHS. (iii) An additional memory consideration selection rule using the ACO random proportional transition rule with a pheromone trail update mechanism. The proposed GHSACO algorithm has been applied to various benchmark functions and constrained optimisation problems. Simulation results demonstrate that it can find significantly better solutions when compared with the original HS and some of its variants.

Space Shuttle communications RF switch matrix

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Winch, R.

1979-01-01

The Shuttle Orbiter communications equipment includes phase modulation (PM) and frequency modulation (FM) channels. The PM section has the capability of routing high levels of energy (175 W) from any one of four transmitters to any one of four antennas, mutually exclusive. The FM channel uses a maximum of 15-W power routed from either of two transmitters to one of two antennas, mutually exclusive. The paper describes the design and the theory of a logic-controlled RF switch matrix devised for the purposes cited. Both PM and FM channels are computer-controlled with manual overrides. The logic interface is realized with CMOS logic for low power consumption and high noise immunity. The interior of the switch matrix is maintained at a pressure of 15 psi (90% nitrogen, 10% helium) by an electron beam-welded encapsulation. The computational results confirm the viability of the RF switch matrix concept.

A generic approach to engineer antibody pH-switches using combinatorial histidine scanning libraries and yeast display.

PubMed

Schröter, Christian; Günther, Ralf; Rhiel, Laura; Becker, Stefan; Toleikis, Lars; Doerner, Achim; Becker, Janine; Schönemann, Andreas; Nasu, Daichi; Neuteboom, Berend; Kolmar, Harald; Hock, Björn

2015-01-01

There is growing interest in the fast and robust engineering of protein pH-sensitivity that aims to reduce binding at acidic pH, compared to neutral pH. Here, we describe a novel strategy for the incorporation of pH-sensitive antigen binding functions into antibody variable domains using combinatorial histidine scanning libraries and yeast surface display. The strategy allows simultaneous screening for both, high affinity binding at pH 7.4 and pH-sensitivity, and excludes conventional negative selection steps. As proof of concept, we applied this strategy to incorporate pH-dependent antigen binding into the complementary-determining regions of adalimumab. After 3 consecutive rounds of separate heavy and light chain library screening, pH-sensitive variants could be isolated. Heavy and light chain mutations were combined, resulting in 3 full-length antibody variants that revealed sharp, reversible pH-dependent binding profiles. Dissociation rate constants at pH 6.0 increased 230- to 780-fold, while high affinity binding at pH 7.4 in the sub-nanomolar range was retained. Furthermore, binding to huFcRn and thermal stability were not affected by histidine substitutions. Overall, this study emphasizes a generalizable strategy for engineering pH-switch functions potentially applicable to a variety of antibodies and further proteins-based therapeutics.

Switch Transcripts in Immunoglobulin Class Switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lorenz, Matthias; Jung, Steffen; Radbruch, Andreas

1995-03-01

B cells can exchange gene segments for the constant region of the immunoglobulin heavy chain, altering the class and effector function of the antibodies that they produce. Class switching is directed to distinct classes by cytokines, which induce transcription of the targeted DNA sequences. These transcripts are processed, resulting in spliced "switch" transcripts. Switch recombination can be directed to immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) by the heterologous human metallothionein II_A promoter in mutant mice. Induction of the structurally conserved, spliced switch transcripts is sufficient to target switch recombination to IgG1, whereas transcription alone is not.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yewondwossen, M; Robar, J; Parsons, D

Purpose: During radiotherapy treatment, lung tumors can display substantial respiratory motion. This motion usually necessitates enlarged treatment margins to provide full tumour coverage. Unfortunately, these margins limit the dose that can be prescribed for tumour control and cause complications to normal tissue. Options for real-time methods of direct detection of tumour position, and particularly those that obviate the need for inserted fiducial markers, are limited. We propose a method of tumor tracking without implanted fiducial markers using a novel fast switching-target that toggles between a FFF copper/tungsten therapy mode and a FFF low-Z target mode for imaging. In this workmore » we demonstrate proof-of-concept of this new technology. Methods: The prototype includes two targets: i) a FFF copper/tungsten target equivalent to that in the Varian 2100 EX 6 MV, and ii) a low-Z (carbon) target with a thickness of 110% of continuous slowing down approximation range (CSDA) at 7 MeV. The two targets can be exchanged with a custom made linear slide and motor-driven actuator. The usefulness of the switching-target concept is demonstrated through experimental BEV Planar images acquired with continual treatment and imaging at a user-defined period. Results: The prototype switching-target demonstrates that two recent advances in linac technology (FFF target for therapy and low-Z target) can be combined with synergy. The switching-target approach offers the capacity for rapid switching between treatment and high-contrast imaging modes, allowing intrafractional tracking, as demonstrated in this work with dynamic breathing phantom. By using a single beam-line, the design is streamlined and may obviate the need for an auxiliary imaging system (e.g., kV OBI.) Conclusion: This switching-target approach is a feasible combination of two current advances in linac technology (FFF target for therapy and a FFF low-Z target) allowing new options in on-line IGRT.« less

Three-tier multi-granularity switching system based on PCE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yubao; Sun, Hao; Liu, Yanfei

2017-10-01

With the growing demand for business communications, electrical signal processing optical path switching can't meet the demand. The multi-granularity switch system that can improve node routing and switching capabilities came into being. In the traditional network, each node is responsible for calculating the path; synchronize the whole network state, which will increase the burden on the network, so the concept of path calculation element (PCE) is proposed. The PCE is responsible for routing and allocating resources in the network1. In the traditional band-switched optical network, the wavelength is used as the basic routing unit, resulting in relatively low wavelength utilization. Due to the limitation of wavelength continuity, the routing design of the band technology becomes complicated, which directly affects the utilization of the system. In this paper, optical code granularity is adopted. There is no continuity of the optical code, and the number of optical codes is more flexible than the wavelength. For the introduction of optical code switching, we propose a Code Group Routing Entity (CGRE) algorithm. In short, the combination of three-tier multi-granularity optical switching system and PCE can simplify the network structure, reduce the node load, and enhance the network scalability and survivability. Realize the intelligentization of optical network.

Integrated Model for Performance Analysis of All-Optical Multihop Packet Switches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Han-You; Seo, Seung-Woo

2000-09-01

The overall performance of an all-optical packet switching system is usually determined by two criteria, i.e., switching latency and packet loss rate. In some real-time applications, however, in which packets arriving later than a timeout period are discarded as loss, the packet loss rate becomes the most dominant criterion for system performance. Here we focus on evaluating the performance of all-optical packet switches in terms of the packet loss rate, which normally arises from the insufficient hardware or the degradation of an optical signal. Considering both aspects, we propose what we believe is a new analysis model for the packet loss rate that reflects the complicated interactions between physical impairments and system-level parameters. On the basis of the estimation model for signal quality degradation in a multihop path we construct an equivalent analysis model of a switching network for evaluating an average bit error rate. With the model constructed we then propose an integrated model for estimating the packet loss rate in three architectural examples of multihop packet switches, each of which is based on a different switching concept. We also derive the bounds on the packet loss rate induced by bit errors. Finally, it is verified through simulation studies that our analysis model accurately predicts system performance.

π-Conjugated polymer anisotropic organogel nanofibrous assemblies for thermoresponsive photonic switches.

PubMed

Narasimha, Karnati; Jayakannan, Manickam

2014-11-12

The present work demonstrates one of the first examples of π-conjugated photonic switches (or photonic wave plates) based on the tailor-made π-conjugated polymer anisotropic organogel. New semicrystalline segmented π-conjugated polymers are designed with rigid aromatic oligophenylenevinylene π-core and flexible alkyl chain along the polymer backbone. These polymers are found to be self-assembled as semicrystalline or amorphous with respect to the number of carbon atoms in the alkyl units. These semicrystalline polymers produce organogels having nanofibrous morphology of 20 nm thickness with length up to 5 μm. The polymer organogel is aligned in a narrow glass capillary, and this anisotropic gel device is further demonstrated as photonic switches. The glass capillary device behaves as typical λ/4 photonic wave plates upon the illumination of the plane polarized light. The λ/4 photonic switching ability is found to be maximum at θ = 45° angle under the cross polarizers. The orthogonal arrangements of the gel capillaries produce dark and bright spots as on-and-off optical switches. Thermoreversibility of the polymer organogel (also its xerogel) was exploited to construct thermoresponsive photonic switches for the temperature window starting from 25 to 160 °C. The organic photonic switch concept can be adapted to large number of other π-conjugated materials for optical communication and storage.

Optical switch compatible with wavelength division multiplexing and mode division multiplexing for photonic networks-on-chip.

PubMed

Jia, Hao; Zhou, Ting; Zhang, Lei; Ding, Jianfeng; Fu, Xin; Yang, Lin

2017-08-21

We propose a 2 × 2 multimode optical switch, which is composed of two mode de-multiplexers, n 2 × 2 single-mode optical switches where n is the number of the supported spatial modes, and two mode multiplexers. As a proof of concept, asymmetric directional couplers are employed to construct the mode multiplexers and de-multiplexers, balanced Mach-Zehnder interferometer is utilized to construct the 2 × 2 single-mode optical switches. The fabricated silicon 2 × 2 multimode optical switch has a broad optical bandwidth and can support four spatial modes. The link-crosstalk for all four modes is smaller than -18.8 dB. The inter-mode crosstalk for the same optical link is less than -22.1 dB. 40 Gbps data transmission is performed for all spatial modes and all optical links. The power penalties for the error-free switching (BER<10 -9 ) at 25 Gbps are less than 1.8 dB for all channels at the wavelength of 1550 nm. The power consumption of the device is 117.9 mW in the "cross" state and 116.2 mW in the "bar" state. The switching time is about 21 μs. This work enables large-capacity multimode photonic networks-on-chip.

Adaptive Fuzzy Control Design for Stochastic Nonlinear Switched Systems With Arbitrary Switchings and Unmodeled Dynamics.

PubMed

Li, Yongming; Sui, Shuai; Tong, Shaocheng

2017-02-01

This paper deals with the problem of adaptive fuzzy output feedback control for a class of stochastic nonlinear switched systems. The controlled system in this paper possesses unmeasured states, completely unknown nonlinear system functions, unmodeled dynamics, and arbitrary switchings. A state observer which does not depend on the switching signal is constructed to tackle the unmeasured states. Fuzzy logic systems are employed to identify the completely unknown nonlinear system functions. Based on the common Lyapunov stability theory and stochastic small-gain theorem, a new robust adaptive fuzzy backstepping stabilization control strategy is developed. The stability of the closed-loop system on input-state-practically stable in probability is proved. The simulation results are given to verify the efficiency of the proposed fuzzy adaptive control scheme.

Copper atomic-scale transistors.

PubMed

Xie, Fangqing; Kavalenka, Maryna N; Röger, Moritz; Albrecht, Daniel; Hölscher, Hendrik; Leuthold, Jürgen; Schimmel, Thomas

2017-01-01

We investigated copper as a working material for metallic atomic-scale transistors and confirmed that copper atomic-scale transistors can be fabricated and operated electrochemically in a copper electrolyte (CuSO 4 + H 2 SO 4 ) in bi-distilled water under ambient conditions with three microelectrodes (source, drain and gate). The electrochemical switching-on potential of the atomic-scale transistor is below 350 mV, and the switching-off potential is between 0 and -170 mV. The switching-on current is above 1 μA, which is compatible with semiconductor transistor devices. Both sign and amplitude of the voltage applied across the source and drain electrodes ( U bias ) influence the switching rate of the transistor and the copper deposition on the electrodes, and correspondingly shift the electrochemical operation potential. The copper atomic-scale transistors can be switched using a function generator without a computer-controlled feedback switching mechanism. The copper atomic-scale transistors, with only one or two atoms at the narrowest constriction, were realized to switch between 0 and 1 G 0 ( G 0 = 2e 2 /h; with e being the electron charge, and h being Planck's constant) or 2 G 0 by the function generator. The switching rate can reach up to 10 Hz. The copper atomic-scale transistor demonstrates volatile/non-volatile dual functionalities. Such an optimal merging of the logic with memory may open a perspective for processor-in-memory and logic-in-memory architectures, using copper as an alternative working material besides silver for fully metallic atomic-scale transistors.

A Developmental Window into Trade-offs in Executive Function: The Case of Task Switching versus Response Inhibition in 6-year-olds

PubMed Central

Chatham, Christopher H.; Wiseheart, Melody; Munakata, Yuko

2014-01-01

Good executive function has been linked to many positive outcomes in academic performance, health, and social competence. However, some aspects of executive function may interfere with other cognitive processes. Childhood provides a unique test case for investigating such cognitive trade-offs, given the dramatic failures and developments observed during this period. For example, most children categorically switch or perseverate when asked to switch between rules on a card-sorting task. To test potential trade-offs with the development of task switching abilities, we compared 6-year-olds who switched versus perseverated in a card-sorting task on two aspects of inhibitory control: response inhibition (via a stop signal task) and interference control (via a Simon task). Across two studies, switchers showed worse response inhibition than perseverators, consistent with the idea of cognitive trade-offs; however, switchers showed better interference control than perseverators, consistent with prior work documenting benefits associated with the development of executive function. This pattern of positive and negative associations may reflect aspects of working memory (active maintenance of current goals, and clearing of prior goals) that help children focused on a single task-goal but hurt in situations with conflicting goals. Implications for understanding components of executive function and their relationships across development are discussed. PMID:24791710

SWITCH: a dynamic CRISPR tool for genome engineering and metabolic pathway control for cell factory construction in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

PubMed

Vanegas, Katherina García; Lehka, Beata Joanna; Mortensen, Uffe Hasbro

2017-02-08

The yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is increasingly used as a cell factory. However, cell factory construction time is a major obstacle towards using yeast for bio-production. Hence, tools to speed up cell factory construction are desirable. In this study, we have developed a new Cas9/dCas9 based system, SWITCH, which allows Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains to iteratively alternate between a genetic engineering state and a pathway control state. Since Cas9 induced recombination events are crucial for SWITCH efficiency, we first developed a technique TAPE, which we have successfully used to address protospacer efficiency. As proof of concept of the use of SWITCH in cell factory construction, we have exploited the genetic engineering state of a SWITCH strain to insert the five genes necessary for naringenin production. Next, the naringenin cell factory was switched to the pathway control state where production was optimized by downregulating an essential gene TSC13, hence, reducing formation of a byproduct. We have successfully integrated two CRISPR tools, one for genetic engineering and one for pathway control, into one system and successfully used it for cell factory construction.

A multiple camera tongue switch for a child with severe spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy.

PubMed

Leung, Brian; Chau, Tom

2010-01-01

The present study proposed a video-based access technology that facilitated a non-contact tongue protrusion access modality for a 7-year-old boy with severe spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy (GMFCS level 5). The proposed system featured a centre camera and two peripheral cameras to extend coverage of the frontal face view of this user for longer durations. The child participated in a descriptive case study. The participant underwent 3 months of tongue protrusion training while the multiple camera tongue switch prototype was being prepared. Later, the participant was brought back for five experiment sessions where he worked on a single-switch picture matching activity, using the multiple camera tongue switch prototype in a controlled environment. The multiple camera tongue switch achieved an average sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 80%. In three of the experiment sessions, the peripheral cameras were associated with most of the true positive switch activations. These activations would have been missed by a centre-camera-only setup. The study demonstrated proof-of-concept of a non-contact tongue access modality implemented by a video-based system involving three cameras and colour video processing.

Switched-Observer-Based Adaptive Neural Control of MIMO Switched Nonlinear Systems With Unknown Control Gains.

PubMed

Long, Lijun; Zhao, Jun

2017-07-01

In this paper, the problem of adaptive neural output-feedback control is addressed for a class of multi-input multioutput (MIMO) switched uncertain nonlinear systems with unknown control gains. Neural networks (NNs) are used to approximate unknown nonlinear functions. In order to avoid the conservativeness caused by adoption of a common observer for all subsystems, an MIMO NN switched observer is designed to estimate unmeasurable states. A new switched observer-based adaptive neural control technique for the problem studied is then provided by exploiting the classical average dwell time (ADT) method and the backstepping method and the Nussbaum gain technique. It effectively handles the obstacle about the coexistence of multiple Nussbaum-type function terms, and improves the classical ADT method, since the exponential decline property of Lyapunov functions for individual subsystems is no longer satisfied. It is shown that the technique proposed is able to guarantee semiglobal uniformly ultimately boundedness of all the signals in the closed-loop system under a class of switching signals with ADT, and the tracking errors converge to a small neighborhood of the origin. The effectiveness of the approach proposed is illustrated by its application to a two inverted pendulum system.

Supramolecular core-shell nanoparticles for photoconductive device applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Chih-Chia; Chen, Jem-Kun; Shieh, Yeong-Tarng; Lee, Duu-Jong

2016-08-01

We report a breakthrough discovery involving supramolecular-based strategies to construct novel core-shell heterojunction nanoparticles with hydrophilic adenine-functionalized polythiophene (PAT) as the core and hydrophobic phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) as the shell, which enables the conception of new functional supramolecular assemblies for constructing functional nanomaterials for applications in optoelectronic devices. The generated nanoparticles exhibit uniform spherical shape, well-controlled tuning of particle size with narrow size distributions, and excellent electrochemical stability in solution and the solid state owing to highly efficient energy transfer from PAT to PCBM. When the PAT/PCBM nanoparticles were fabricated into a photoconducting layer in an electronic device, the resulting device showed excellent electric conduction characteristics, including an electrically-tunable voltage-controlled switch, and high short-circuit current and open-circuit voltage. These observations demonstrate how the self-assembly of PAT/PCBM into specific nanostructures may help to promote efficient charge generation and transport processes, suggesting potential for a wide variety of applications as a promising candidate material for bulk heterojunction polymer devices.

Finite-time synchronization of uncertain coupled switched neural networks under asynchronous switching.

PubMed

Wu, Yuanyuan; Cao, Jinde; Li, Qingbo; Alsaedi, Ahmed; Alsaadi, Fuad E

2017-01-01

This paper deals with the finite-time synchronization problem for a class of uncertain coupled switched neural networks under asynchronous switching. By constructing appropriate Lyapunov-like functionals and using the average dwell time technique, some sufficient criteria are derived to guarantee the finite-time synchronization of considered uncertain coupled switched neural networks. Meanwhile, the asynchronous switching feedback controller is designed to finite-time synchronize the concerned networks. Finally, two numerical examples are introduced to show the validity of the main results. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optical switches and switching methods

DOEpatents

Doty, Michael

2008-03-04

A device and method for collecting subject responses, particularly during magnetic imaging experiments and testing using a method such as functional MRI. The device comprises a non-metallic input device which is coupled via fiber optic cables to a computer or other data collection device. One or more optical switches transmit the subject's responses. The input device keeps the subject's fingers comfortably aligned with the switches by partially immobilizing the forearm, wrist, and/or hand of the subject. Also a robust nonmetallic switch, particularly for use with the input device and methods for optical switching.

NETWORK SYNTHESIS OF CASCADED THRESHOLD ELEMENTS.

DTIC Science & Technology

A threshold function is a switching function which can be stimulated by a single, simplified, idealized neuron, or threshold element. In this report... threshold functions are examined in the context of abstract set theory and linear algebra for the purpose of obtaining practical synthesis procedures...for networks of threshold elements. A procedure is described by which, for any given switching function, a cascade network of these elements can be

All-optical switch consisting of two-stage interferometers controlled by using saturable absorption of monolayer graphene.

PubMed

Oya, Masayuki; Kishikawa, Hiroki; Goto, Nobuo; Yanagiya, Shin-ichiro

2012-11-19

At routing nodes in future photonic networks, pico-second switching will be a key function. We propose an all-optical switch consisting of two-stage Mach-Zehnder interferometers, whose arms contain graphene saturable absorption films. Optical amplitudes along the interferometers are controlled to perform switching between two output ports instead of phase control used in conventional switches. Since only absorption is used for realizing complete switching, insertion loss of 10.2 dB is accompanied in switching. Picosecond response can be expected because of the fast response of saturable absorption of graphene. The switching characteristics are theoretically analyzed and numerically simulated by the finite-difference beam propagation method (FD-BPM).

Cognitive performance in healthy older adults relates to spontaneous switching between states of functional connectivity during rest.

PubMed

Cabral, Joana; Vidaurre, Diego; Marques, Paulo; Magalhães, Ricardo; Silva Moreira, Pedro; Miguel Soares, José; Deco, Gustavo; Sousa, Nuno; Kringelbach, Morten L

2017-07-11

Growing evidence has shown that brain activity at rest slowly wanders through a repertoire of different states, where whole-brain functional connectivity (FC) temporarily settles into distinct FC patterns. Nevertheless, the functional role of resting-state activity remains unclear. Here, we investigate how the switching behavior of resting-state FC relates with cognitive performance in healthy older adults. We analyse resting-state fMRI data from 98 healthy adults previously categorized as being among the best or among the worst performers in a cohort study of >1000 subjects aged 50+ who underwent neuropsychological assessment. We use a novel approach focusing on the dominant FC pattern captured by the leading eigenvector of dynamic FC matrices. Recurrent FC patterns - or states - are detected and characterized in terms of lifetime, probability of occurrence and switching profiles. We find that poorer cognitive performance is associated with weaker FC temporal similarity together with altered switching between FC states. These results provide new evidence linking the switching dynamics of FC during rest with cognitive performance in later life, reinforcing the functional role of resting-state activity for effective cognitive processing.

A Low-G Silicon Inertial Micro-Switch with Enhanced Contact Effect Using Squeeze-Film Damping.

PubMed

Peng, Yingchun; Wen, Zhiyu; Li, Dongling; Shang, Zhengguo

2017-02-16

Contact time is one of the most important properties for inertial micro-switches. However, it is usually less than 20 μs for the switch with rigid electrode, which is difficult for the external circuit to recognize. This issue is traditionally addressed by designing the switch with a keep-close function or flexible electrode. However, the switch with keep-close function requires an additional operation to re-open itself, causing inconvenience for some applications wherein repeated monitoring is needed. The switch with a flexible electrode is usually fabricated by electroplating technology, and it is difficult to realize low-g switches (<50 g) due to inherent fabrication errors. This paper reports a contact enhancement using squeeze-film damping effect for low-g switches. A vertically driven switch with large proof mass and flexible springs was designed based on silicon micromachining, in order to achieve a damping ratio of 2 and a threshold value of 10 g. The proposed contact enhancement was investigated by theoretical and experimental studies. The results show that the damping effect can not only prolong the contact time for the dynamic acceleration load, but also reduce the contact bounce for the quasi-static acceleration load. The contact time under dynamic and quasi-static loads was 40 μs and 570 μs, respectively.

Biomolecular engineering of intracellular switches in eukaryotes

PubMed Central

Pastuszka, M.K.; Mackay, J.A.

2010-01-01

Tools to selectively and reversibly control gene expression are useful to study and model cellular functions. When optimized, these cellular switches can turn a protein's function “on” and “off” based on cues designated by the researcher. These cues include small molecules, drugs, hormones, and even temperature variations. Here we review three distinct areas in gene expression that are commonly targeted when designing cellular switches. Transcriptional switches target gene expression at the level of mRNA polymerization, with examples including the tetracycline gene induction system as well as nuclear receptors. Translational switches target the process of turning the mRNA signal into protein, with examples including riboswitches and RNA interference. Post-translational switches control how proteins interact with one another to attenuate or relay signals. Examples of post-translational modification include dimerization and intein splicing. In general, the delay times between switch and effect decreases from transcription to translation to post-translation; furthermore, the fastest switches may offer the most elegant opportunities to influence and study cell behavior. We discuss the pros and cons of these strategies, which directly influence their usefulness to study and implement drug targeting at the tissue and cellular level. PMID:21209849

A high throughput liquid crystal light shutter for unpolarized light using polymer polarization gratings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Komanduri, Ravi K.; Lawler, Kris F.; Escuti, Michael J.

2011-05-01

We report on a broadband, diffractive, light shutter with the ability to modulate unpolarized light. This polarizer-free approach employs a conventional liquid crystal (LC) switch, combined with broadband Polarization Gratings (PGs) formed with polymer LC materials. The thin-film PGs act as diffractive polarizing beam-splitters, while the LC switch operates on both orthogonal polarization states simultaneously. As an initial experimental proof-of- concept for unpolarized light with +/-7° aperture, we utilize a commercial twisted-nematic LC switch and our own polymer PGs to achieve a peak transmittance of 80% and peak contrast ratio of 230:1. We characterize the optoelectronic performance, discuss the limitations, and evaluate its use in potential nonmechanical shutter applications (imaging and non-imaging).

An operational system for subject switching between controlled vocabularies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Silvester, June P.; Klingbiel, Paul H.

1993-01-01

The NASA system of automatically converting sets of terms assigned by Department of Defense indexers to sets of NASA's authorized terms is described. This little-touted system, which has been operating successfully since 1983, matches concepts, rather than words. Subject Switching uses a translation table, known as the Lexical Dictionary, accessed by a program that determines which rules to follow in making the transition from DTIC's to NASA's authorized terms. The authors describe the four phases of development of Subject Switching, changes that have been made, evaluating the system, and benefits. Benefits to NASA include saving indexers' time, the addition of access points for documents indexed, the utilization of other government indexing, and a contribution towards the now-operational NASA, online, interactive, machine aided indexing.

Ectopic lymphoid structures support ongoing production of class-switched autoantibodies in rheumatoid synovium.

PubMed

Humby, Frances; Bombardieri, Michele; Manzo, Antonio; Kelly, Stephen; Blades, Mark C; Kirkham, Bruce; Spencer, Jo; Pitzalis, Costantino

2009-01-13

Follicular structures resembling germinal centres (GCs) that are characterized by follicular dendritic cell (FDC) networks have long been recognized in chronically inflamed tissues in autoimmune diseases, including the synovium of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, it is debated whether these ectopic structures promote autoimmunity and chronic inflammation driving the production of pathogenic autoantibodies. Anti-citrullinated protein/peptide antibodies (ACPA) are highly specific markers of RA, predict a poor prognosis, and have been suggested to be pathogenic. Therefore, the main study objectives were to determine whether ectopic lymphoid structures in RA synovium: (i) express activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), the enzyme required for somatic hypermutation and class-switch recombination (CSR) of Ig genes; (ii) support ongoing CSR and ACPA production; and (iii) remain functional in a RA/severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) chimera model devoid of new immune cell influx into the synovium. Using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and quantitative Taqman real-time PCR (QT-PCR) in synovial tissue from 55 patients with RA, we demonstrated that FDC+ structures invariably expressed AID with a distribution resembling secondary lymphoid organs. Further, AID+/CD21+ follicular structures were surrounded by ACPA+/CD138+ plasma cells, as demonstrated by immune reactivity to citrullinated fibrinogen. Moreover, we identified a novel subset of synovial AID+/CD20+ B cells outside GCs resembling interfollicular large B cells. In order to gain direct functional evidence that AID+ structures support CSR and in situ manufacturing of class-switched ACPA, 34 SCID mice were transplanted with RA synovium and humanely killed at 4 wk for harvesting of transplants and sera. Persistent expression of AID and Igamma-Cmu circular transcripts (identifying ongoing IgM-IgG class-switching) was observed in synovial grafts expressing FDCs/CD21L. Furthermore, synovial mRNA levels of AID were closely associated with circulating human IgG ACPA in mouse sera. Finally, the survival and proliferation of functional B cell niches was associated with persistent overexpression of genes regulating ectopic lymphoneogenesis. Our demonstration that FDC+ follicular units invariably express AID and are surrounded by ACPA-producing plasma cells provides strong evidence that ectopic lymphoid structures in the RA synovium are functional and support autoantibody production. This concept is further confirmed by evidence of sustained AID expression, B cell proliferation, ongoing CSR, and production of human IgG ACPA from GC+ synovial tissue transplanted into SCID mice, independently of new B cell influx from the systemic circulation. These data identify AID as a potential therapeutic target in RA and suggest that survival of functional synovial B cell niches may profoundly influence chronic inflammation, autoimmunity, and response to B cell-depleting therapies.

C-reactive protein and interleukin 6 microfluidic immunoassays with on-chip pre-stored reagents and centrifugo-pneumatic liquid control.

PubMed

Zhao, Y; Czilwik, G; Klein, V; Mitsakakis, K; Zengerle, R; Paust, N

2017-05-02

We present a fully automated centrifugal microfluidic method for particle based protein immunoassays. Stick-pack technology is employed for pre-storage and release of liquid reagents. Quantitative layout of centrifugo-pneumatic particle handling, including timed valving, switching and pumping is assisted by network simulations. The automation is exclusively controlled by the spinning frequency and does not require any additional means. New centrifugal microfluidic process chains are developed in order to sequentially supply wash buffer based on frequency dependent stick-pack opening and pneumatic pumping to perform two washing steps from one stored wash buffer; pre-store and re-suspend functionalized microparticles on a disk; and switch between the path of the waste fluid and the path of the substrate reaction product with 100% efficiency. The automated immunoassay concept is composed of on demand ligand binding, two washing steps, the substrate reaction, timed separation of the reaction products, and termination of the substrate reaction. We demonstrated separation of particles from three different liquids with particle loss below 4% and residual liquid remaining within particles below 3%. The automated immunoassay concept was demonstrated by means of detecting C-reactive protein (CRP) in the range of 1-81 ng ml -1 and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in the range of 64-13 500 pg ml -1 . The limit of detection and quantification were 1.0 ng ml -1 and 2.1 ng ml -1 for CRP and 64 pg ml -1 and 205 pg ml -1 for IL-6, respectively.

Power-Switching Circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Praver, Gerald A.; Theisinger, Peter C.; Genofsky, John

1987-01-01

Functions of circuit breakers, meters, and switches combined. Circuit that includes power field-effect transistors (PFET's) provides on/off switching, soft starting, current monitoring, current tripping, and protection against overcurrent for 30-Vdc power supply at normal load currents up to 2 A. Has no moving parts.

Abacus Training Affects Math and Task Switching Abilities and Modulates Their Relationships in Chinese Children

PubMed Central

Yao, Yuan; Weng, Jian; Hu, Yuzheng; Chen, Feiyan

2015-01-01

Our previous work demonstrated that abacus-based mental calculation (AMC), a traditional Chinese calculation method, could help children improve their math abilities (e.g. basic arithmetical ability) and executive function (e.g. working memory). This study further examined the effects of long-term AMC training on math ability in visual-spatial domain and the task switching component of executive function. More importantly, this study investigated whether AMC training modulated the relationship between math abilities and task switching. The participants were seventy 7-year-old children who were randomly assigned into AMC and control groups at primary school entry. Children in AMC group received 2-hour AMC training every week since primary school entry. On the contrary, children in the control group had never received any AMC training. Math and task switching abilities were measured one year and three years respectively after AMC training began. The results showed that AMC children performed better than their peers on math abilities in arithmetical and visual-spatial domains. In addition, AMC group responded faster than control group in the switching task, while no group difference was found in switch cost. Most interestingly, group difference was present in the relationships between math abilities and switch cost. These results implied the effect of AMC training on math abilities as well as its relationship with executive function. PMID:26444689

Abacus Training Affects Math and Task Switching Abilities and Modulates Their Relationships in Chinese Children.

PubMed

Wang, Chunjie; Geng, Fengji; Yao, Yuan; Weng, Jian; Hu, Yuzheng; Chen, Feiyan

2015-01-01

Our previous work demonstrated that abacus-based mental calculation (AMC), a traditional Chinese calculation method, could help children improve their math abilities (e.g. basic arithmetical ability) and executive function (e.g. working memory). This study further examined the effects of long-term AMC training on math ability in visual-spatial domain and the task switching component of executive function. More importantly, this study investigated whether AMC training modulated the relationship between math abilities and task switching. The participants were seventy 7-year-old children who were randomly assigned into AMC and control groups at primary school entry. Children in AMC group received 2-hour AMC training every week since primary school entry. On the contrary, children in the control group had never received any AMC training. Math and task switching abilities were measured one year and three years respectively after AMC training began. The results showed that AMC children performed better than their peers on math abilities in arithmetical and visual-spatial domains. In addition, AMC group responded faster than control group in the switching task, while no group difference was found in switch cost. Most interestingly, group difference was present in the relationships between math abilities and switch cost. These results implied the effect of AMC training on math abilities as well as its relationship with executive function.

Switch from agalsidase beta to agalsidase alfa in the enzyme replacement therapy of patients with Fabry disease in Latin America.

PubMed

Ripeau, Diego; Amartino, Hernán; Cedrolla, Martín; Urtiaga, Luis; Urdaneta, Bella; Cano, Marilis; Valdez, Rita; Antongiovanni, Norberto; Masllorens, Francisca

2017-01-01

There are currently two available enzyme replacement therapies for Fabry disease and little information regarding efficacy and safety of switching therapies. Between 2009 and 2012 there was a worldwide shortage of agalsidase beta and patients on that enzyme were switched to agalsidase alfa. This retrospective observational study assessed a 2-year period of efficacy and safety in a population of Fabry patients, in Argentina (30 patients) and Venezuela (3 patients), who switched therapies from algasidase beta to agalsidase alfa. Thirty-three patients completed 24-months follow-up after the switch (age 32.4 ± 2.0, range 10.0-55.9 years; male: female 23:10). Measures of renal function such as estimated glomerular filtration rate remained almost unchanged in 31 patients without end stage renal disease over the 2 years after switching and urine protein excretion continued stable. Cardiac functional parameters: left ventricular mass index, interventricular septum, left ventricular posterior wall showed no significant change from baseline in the 33 patients. Quality of life, pain and disease severity scores were mostly unchanged after 24-months and agalsidase alfa was generally well tolerated. Our findings showed there is no significant change in the efficacy measured through the renal or cardiac function, quality of life, pain, disease severity scoring and safety for at least 2 years after switching from agalsidase beta to agalsidase alfa.

Ovonic switching in tin selenide thin films. Ph.D. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baxter, C. R.

1974-01-01

Amorphous tin selenide thin films which possess Ovonic switching properties were fabricated using vacuum deposition techniques. Results obtained indicate that memory type Ovonic switching does occur in these films the energy density required for switching from a high impedance to a low impedance state is dependent on the spacing between the electrodes of the device. The switching is also function of the magnitude of the applied voltage pulse. A completely automated computer controlled testing procedure was developed which allows precise control over the shape of the applied voltage switching pulse. A survey of previous experimental and theoretical work in the area of Ovonic switching is also presented.

Renal function in atrial fibrillation patients switched from warfarin to a direct oral anticoagulant.

PubMed

Minhas, Anum S; Jiang, Qingmei; Gu, Xiaokui; Haymart, Brian; Kline-Rogers, Eva; Almany, Steve; Kozlowski, Jay; Krol, Gregory D; Kaatz, Scott; Froehlich, James B; Barnes, Geoffrey D

2016-11-01

All available direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are at least partially eliminated by the kidneys. These agents are increasingly being used as alternatives to warfarin for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation. The aim of this study was to identify changes in renal function and associated DOAC dosing implications in a multicenter cohort of atrial fibrillation patients switched from warfarin to DOAC treatment. We included all patients in the Michigan Anticoagulation Quality Improvement Initiative cohort who switched from warfarin to a DOAC with atrial fibrillation as their anticoagulant indication between 2009 and 2014, and who had at least two creatinine values. Compliance with FDA-recommended dosing based on renal function was assessed. Of the 189 patients switched from warfarin to a DOAC, 34 (18.0 %) had a baseline creatinine clearance <50 mL/min and 23 (12.2 %) experienced important fluctuations in renal function. Of these 23 patients, 6 (26.1 %) should have impacted the DOAC dosing, but only 1 patient actually received an appropriate dose adjustment. Additionally, 15 (7.9 %) of patients on DOACs had a dose change performed, but only one patient demonstrated a change in renal function to justify the dose adjustment. Most atrial fibrillation patients who switched from warfarin to a DOAC had stable renal function. However, the majority of patients who had a change in renal function did not receive the indicated dose change. As the use of DOACs expands, monitoring of renal function and appropriate dose adjustments are critical.

Measuring entanglement entropy of a generic many-body system with a quantum switch.

PubMed

Abanin, Dmitry A; Demler, Eugene

2012-07-13

Entanglement entropy has become an important theoretical concept in condensed matter physics because it provides a unique tool for characterizing quantum mechanical many-body phases and new kinds of quantum order. However, the experimental measurement of entanglement entropy in a many-body system is widely believed to be unfeasible, owing to the nonlocal character of this quantity. Here, we propose a general method to measure the entanglement entropy. The method is based on a quantum switch (a two-level system) coupled to a composite system consisting of several copies of the original many-body system. The state of the switch controls how different parts of the composite system connect to each other. We show that, by studying the dynamics of the quantum switch only, the Rényi entanglement entropy of the many-body system can be extracted. We propose a possible design of the quantum switch, which can be realized in cold atomic systems. Our work provides a route towards testing the scaling of entanglement in critical systems as well as a method for a direct experimental detection of topological order.

Plasma puff initiation of high Coulomb transfer switches

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Venable, D. D.; Choi, E. H.

1990-01-01

The plasma-puff triggering mechanism based on a hypocycloidal pinch geometry was investigated to determine the optimal operating conditions for the azimuthally uniform surface flashover which initiates plasma-puff under wide range of fill gas pressure of Ar, He and N2. The optimal fill gas pressure for the azimuthally uniform plasma-puff was about 120 mTorr and 450 Torr for He and N2, and between 120 mTorr and 5 Torr for Ar. The inverse pinch switch was triggered with the plasma-puff and the switching capability under various electrical parameters and working gas pressures of Ar, He and N2 was determined. It was also shown that the azimuthally uniform switching discharges were dependent on the type of fill gas and its fill pressure. A new concept of plasma-focus driven plasma-puff was also discussed in comparison with the hypocycloidal pinch plasma-puff triggering. The main discharge of inverse pinch switch with plasma-focus driven plasma-puff trigger is found to be more azimuthally uniform than that with hypocycloidal pinch plasma-puff trigger in a gas pressure region between 80 mTorr and 1 Torr.

A Novel QKD-based Secure Edge Router Architecture Design for Burst Confidentiality in Optical Burst Switched Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balamurugan, A. M.; Sivasubramanian, A.

2014-06-01

The Optical Burst Switching (OBS) is an emergent result to the technology issue that could achieve a viable network in future. They have the ability to meet the bandwidth requisite of those applications that call for intensive bandwidth. The field of optical transmission has undergone numerous advancements and is still being researched mainly due to the fact that optical data transmission can be done at enormous speeds. The concept of OBS is still far from perfection facing issues in case of security threat. The transfer of optical switching paradigm to optical burst switching faces serious downfall in the fields of burst aggregation, routing, authentication, dispute resolution and quality of service (QoS). This paper proposes a framework based on QKD based secure edge router architecture design to provide burst confidentiality. The QKD protocol offers high level of confidentiality as it is indestructible. The design architecture was implemented in FPGA using diverse models and the results were taken. The results show that the proposed model is suitable for real time secure routing applications of the Optical burst switched networks.

Systematic identification of phosphorylation-mediated protein interaction switches

PubMed Central

Wichmann, Oliver; Utz, Mathias; Andre, Timon; Minguez, Pablo; Parca, Luca; Roth, Frederick P.; Gavin, Anne-Claude; Bork, Peer; Russell, Robert B.

2017-01-01

Proteomics techniques can identify thousands of phosphorylation sites in a single experiment, the majority of which are new and lack precise information about function or molecular mechanism. Here we present a fast method to predict potential phosphorylation switches by mapping phosphorylation sites to protein-protein interactions of known structure and analysing the properties of the protein interface. We predict 1024 sites that could potentially enable or disable particular interactions. We tested a selection of these switches and showed that phosphomimetic mutations indeed affect interactions. We estimate that there are likely thousands of phosphorylation mediated switches yet to be uncovered, even among existing phosphorylation datasets. The results suggest that phosphorylation sites on globular, as distinct from disordered, parts of the proteome frequently function as switches, which might be one of the ancient roles for kinase phosphorylation. PMID:28346509

Electronic transport properties of a quinone-based molecular switch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Ya-Peng; Bian, Bao-An; Yuan, Pei-Pei

2016-09-01

In this paper, we carried out first-principles calculations based on density functional theory and non-equilibrium Green's function to investigate the electronic transport properties of a quinone-based molecule sandwiched between two Au electrodes. The molecular switch can be reversibly switched between the reduced hydroquinone (HQ) and oxidized quinone (Q) states via redox reactions. The switching behavior of two forms is analyzed through their I- V curves, transmission spectra and molecular projected self-consistent Hamiltonian at zero bias. Then we discuss the transmission spectra of the HQ and Q forms at different bias, and explain the oscillation of current according to the transmission eigenstates of LUMO energy level for Q form. The results suggest that this kind of a quinone-based molecule is usable as one of the good candidates for redox-controlled molecular switches.

Feeding on Multiple Sources: Towards a Universal Parameterization of the Functional Response of a Generalist Predator Allowing for Switching

PubMed Central

Morozov, Andrew; Petrovskii, Sergei

2013-01-01

Understanding of complex trophic interactions in ecosystems requires correct descriptions of the rate at which predators consume a variety of different prey species. Field and laboratory data on multispecies communities are rarely sufficient and usually cannot provide an unambiguous test for the theory. As a result, the conventional way of constructing a multi-prey functional response is speculative, and often based on assumptions that are difficult to verify. Predator responses allowing for prey selectivity and active switching are thought to be more biologically relevant compared to the standard proportion-based consumption. However, here we argue that the functional responses with switching may not be applicable to communities with a broad spectrum of resource types. We formulate a set of general rules that a biologically sound parameterization of a predator functional response should satisfy, and show that all existing formulations for the multispecies response with prey selectivity and switching fail to do so. Finally, we propose a universal framework for parameterization of a multi-prey functional response by combining patterns of food selectivity and proportion-based feeding. PMID:24086356

Study of switching transients in high frequency converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zinger, Donald S.; Elbuluk, Malik E.; Lee, Tony

1993-01-01

As the semiconductor technologies progress rapidly, the power densities and switching frequencies of many power devices are improved. With the existing technology, high frequency power systems become possible. Use of such a system is advantageous in many aspects. A high frequency ac source is used as the direct input to an ac/ac pulse-density-modulation (PDM) converter. This converter is a new concept which employs zero voltage switching techniques. However, the development of this converter is still in its infancy stage. There are problems associated with this converter such as a high on-voltage drop, switching transients, and zero-crossing detecting. Considering these problems, the switching speed and power handling capabilities of the MOS-Controlled Thyristor (MCT) makes the device the most promising candidate for this application. A complete insight of component considerations for building an ac/ac PDM converter for a high frequency power system is addressed. A power device review is first presented. The ac/ac PDM converter requires switches that can conduct bi-directional current and block bi-directional voltage. These bi-directional switches can be constructed using existing power devices. Different bi-directional switches for the converter are investigated. Detailed experimental studies of the characteristics of the MCT under hard switching and zero-voltage switching are also presented. One disadvantage of an ac/ac converter is that turn-on and turn-off of the switches has to be completed instantaneously when the ac source is at zero voltage. Otherwise shoot-through current or voltage spikes can occur which can be hazardous to the devices. In order for the devices to switch softly in the safe operating area even under non-ideal cases, a unique snubber circuit is used in each bi-directional switch. Detailed theory and experimental results for circuits using these snubbers are presented. A current regulated ac/ac PDM converter built using MCT's and IGBT's is evaluated.

49 CFR 236.775 - Movement, switch-and-lock.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Movement, switch-and-lock. 236.775 Section 236.775 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued) FEDERAL RAILROAD ADMINISTRATION... Movement, switch-and-lock. A device, the complete operation of which performs the three functions of...

White-light-controlled resistive switching in ZnO/BaTiO3/C multilayer layer at room temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Junshuai; Liang, Dandan; Wu, Liangchen; Li, Xiaoping; Chen, Peng

2018-07-01

The bipolar resistance switching effect is observed in ZnO/BaTiO3/C structure. The resistance switching behavior can be modulated by white light. The resistance switch states and threshold voltage can be changed when subjected to white light. This research can help explore multi-functional materials and applications in nonvolatile memory device.

Radial Basis Function Neural Network Application to Power System Restoration Studies

PubMed Central

Sadeghkhani, Iman; Ketabi, Abbas; Feuillet, Rene

2012-01-01

One of the most important issues in power system restoration is overvoltages caused by transformer switching. These overvoltages might damage some equipment and delay power system restoration. This paper presents a radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) to study transformer switching overvoltages. To achieve good generalization capability for developed RBFNN, equivalent parameters of the network are added to RBFNN inputs. The developed RBFNN is trained with the worst-case scenario of switching angle and remanent flux and tested for typical cases. The simulated results for a partial of 39-bus New England test system show that the proposed technique can estimate the peak values and duration of switching overvoltages with good accuracy. PMID:22792093

Copper atomic-scale transistors

PubMed Central

Kavalenka, Maryna N; Röger, Moritz; Albrecht, Daniel; Hölscher, Hendrik; Leuthold, Jürgen

2017-01-01

We investigated copper as a working material for metallic atomic-scale transistors and confirmed that copper atomic-scale transistors can be fabricated and operated electrochemically in a copper electrolyte (CuSO4 + H2SO4) in bi-distilled water under ambient conditions with three microelectrodes (source, drain and gate). The electrochemical switching-on potential of the atomic-scale transistor is below 350 mV, and the switching-off potential is between 0 and −170 mV. The switching-on current is above 1 μA, which is compatible with semiconductor transistor devices. Both sign and amplitude of the voltage applied across the source and drain electrodes (U bias) influence the switching rate of the transistor and the copper deposition on the electrodes, and correspondingly shift the electrochemical operation potential. The copper atomic-scale transistors can be switched using a function generator without a computer-controlled feedback switching mechanism. The copper atomic-scale transistors, with only one or two atoms at the narrowest constriction, were realized to switch between 0 and 1G 0 (G 0 = 2e2/h; with e being the electron charge, and h being Planck’s constant) or 2G 0 by the function generator. The switching rate can reach up to 10 Hz. The copper atomic-scale transistor demonstrates volatile/non-volatile dual functionalities. Such an optimal merging of the logic with memory may open a perspective for processor-in-memory and logic-in-memory architectures, using copper as an alternative working material besides silver for fully metallic atomic-scale transistors. PMID:28382242

Thermal Control System for a Small, Extended Duration Lunar Surface Science Platform

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bugby, D.; Farmer, J.; OConnor, B.; Wirzburger, M.; Abel, E.; Stouffer, C.

2010-01-01

The presentation slides include: Introduction: lunar mission definition, Problem: requirements/methodology, Concept: thermal switching options, Analysis: system evaluation, Plans: dual-radiator LHP (loop heat pipe) test bed, and Conclusions: from this study.

Design framework for entanglement-distribution switching networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drost, Robert J.; Brodsky, Michael

2016-09-01

The distribution of quantum entanglement appears to be an important component of applications of quantum communications and networks. The ability to centralize the sourcing of entanglement in a quantum network can provide for improved efficiency and enable a variety of network structures. A necessary feature of an entanglement-sourcing network node comprising several sources of entangled photons is the ability to reconfigurably route the generated pairs of photons to network neighbors depending on the desired entanglement sharing of the network users at a given time. One approach to such routing is the use of a photonic switching network. The requirements for an entanglement distribution switching network are less restrictive than for typical conventional applications, leading to design freedom that can be leveraged to optimize additional criteria. In this paper, we present a mathematical framework defining the requirements of an entanglement-distribution switching network. We then consider the design of such a switching network using a number of 2 × 2 crossbar switches, addressing the interconnection of these switches and efficient routing algorithms. In particular, we define a worst-case loss metric and consider 6 × 6, 8 × 8, and 10 × 10 network designs that optimize both this metric and the number of crossbar switches composing the network. We pay particular attention to the 10 × 10 network, detailing novel results proving the optimality of the proposed design. These optimized network designs have great potential for use in practical quantum networks, thus advancing the concept of quantum networks toward reality.

Turning on the care coordination switch in rural primary care: voices from the practices--clinician champions, clinician partners, administrators, and nurse care managers.

PubMed

Fagnan, Lyle J; Dorr, David A; Davis, Melinda; McGinnis, Paul; Mahler, Jo; King, Molly McCarthy; Michaels, LeAnn

2011-01-01

This study sought to understand the acceptability and feasibility of office-based nurse care management in medium to large rural primary care practices. A qualitative assessment of Care Management Plus (a focused medical home model for complex patients) implementation was conducted using semistructured interviews with 4 staff cohorts. Cohorts included clinician champions, clinician partners, practice administrators, and nurse care managers. Seven key implementation attributes were: a proven care coordination program; adequate staffing; practice buy-in; adequate time; measurement; practice facilitation; and functional information technology. Although staff was positive about the care coordination concept, model acceptability was varied and additional study is required to determine sustainability.

Geckoprinting: assembly of microelectronic devices on unconventional surfaces by transfer printing with isolated gecko setal arrays

PubMed Central

Jeong, Jaeyoung; Kim, Juho; Song, Kwangsun; Autumn, Kellar; Lee, Jongho

2014-01-01

Developing electronics in unconventional forms provides opportunities to expand the use of electronics in diverse applications including bio-integrated or implanted electronics. One of the key challenges lies in integrating semiconductor microdevices onto unconventional substrates without glue, high pressure or temperature that may cause damage to microdevices, substrates or interfaces. This paper describes a solution based on natural gecko setal arrays that switch adhesion mechanically on and off, enabling pick and place manipulation of thin microscale semiconductor materials onto diverse surfaces including plants and insects whose surfaces are usually rough and irregular. A demonstration of functional ‘geckoprinted’ microelectronic devices provides a proof of concept of our results in practical applications. PMID:25056216

Field-Sensitive Materials for Optical Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Sang H.; Little, Mark

2002-01-01

The purpose of investigation is to develop the fundamental materials and fabrication technology for field-controlled spectrally active optics that are essential for industry, NASA, and DOD (Department of Defense) applications such as: membrane optics, filters for LIDARs (Light Detection and Ranging), windows for sensors and probes, telescopes, spectroscopes, cameras, light valves, light switches, flat-panel displays, etc. The proposed idea is based on the quantum-dots (QD) array or thin-film of field-sensitive Stark and Zeeman materials and the bound excitonic state of organic crystals that will offer optical adaptability and reconfigurability. Major tasks are the development of concept demonstration article and test data of field-controlled spectrally smart active optics (FCSAO) for optical multi-functional capabilities on a selected spectral range.

Intermittent metabolic switching, neuroplasticity and brain health

PubMed Central

Mattson, Mark P.; Moehl, Keelin; Ghena, Nathaniel; Schmaedick, Maggie; Cheng, Aiwu

2018-01-01

During evolution, individuals whose brains and bodies functioned well in a fasted state were successful in acquiring food, enabling their survival and reproduction. With fasting and extended exercise, liver glycogen stores are depleted and ketones are produced from adipose-cell-derived fatty acids. This metabolic switch in cellular fuel source is accompanied by cellular and molecular adaptations of neural networks in the brain that enhance their functionality and bolster their resistance to stress, injury and disease. Here, we consider how intermittent metabolic switching, repeating cycles of a metabolic challenge that induces ketosis (fasting and/or exercise) followed by a recovery period (eating, resting and sleeping), may optimize brain function and resilience throughout the lifespan, with a focus on the neuronal circuits involved in cognition and mood. Such metabolic switching impacts multiple signalling pathways that promote neuroplasticity and resistance of the brain to injury and disease. PMID:29321682

On-board processing for telecommunications satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nuspl, P. P.; Dong, G.

1991-01-01

In this decade, communications satellite systems will probably face dramatic challenges from alternative transmission means. To balance and overcome such competition, and to prepare for new requirements, INTELSAT has developed several on-board processing techniques, including Satellite-Switched TDMA (SS-TDMA), Satellite-Switched FDMA (SS-FDMA), several Modulators/Demodulators (Modem), a Multicarrier Multiplexer and Demodulator MCDD), an International Business Service (IBS)/Intermediate Data Rate (IDR) BaseBand Processor (BBP), etc. Some proof-of-concept hardware and software were developed, and tested recently in the INTELSAT Technical Laboratories. These techniques and some test results are discussed.

Deficient saccadic inhibition in Asperger's disorder and the social-emotional processing disorder

PubMed Central

Manoach, D; Lindgren, K; Barton, J

2004-01-01

Background: Both Asperger's disorder and the social-emotional processing disorder (SEPD), a form of non-verbal learning disability, are associated with executive function deficits. SEPD has been shown to be associated with deficient saccadic inhibition. Objective: To study two executive functions in Asperger's disorder and SEPD, inhibition and task switching, using a single saccadic paradigm. Methods: 22 control subjects and 27 subjects with developmental social processing disorders—SEPD, Asperger's disorder, or both syndromes—performed random sequences of prosaccades and antisaccades. This design resulted in four trial types, prosaccades and antisaccades, that were either repeated or switched. The design allowed the performance costs of inhibition and task switching to be isolated. Results: Subjects with both Asperger's disorder and SEPD showed deficient inhibition, as indicated by increased antisaccade errors and a disproportionate increase in latency for antisaccades relative to prosaccades. In contrast, task switching error and latency costs were normal and unrelated to the costs of inhibition. Conclusions: This study replicates the finding of deficient saccadic inhibition in SEPD, extends it to Asperger's disorder, and implicates prefrontal cortex dysfunction in these syndromes. The finding of intact task switching shows that executive function deficits in Asperger's disorder and SEPD are selective and suggests that inhibition and task switching are mediated by distinct neural networks. PMID:15548490

Overcoming residual interference in mental set switching: Neural correlates and developmental trajectory

PubMed Central

Witt, Suzanne T.; Stevens, Michael C.

2012-01-01

Mental set switching is a key facet of executive control measured behaviorally through reaction time or accuracy (i.e., ‘switch costs’) when shifting among task types. One of several experimentally-dissociable influences on switch costs is ‘task set inertia’, conceptualized as the residual interference conferred when a previous stimulus-response tendency interferes with subsequent stimulus processing on a new task. Task set inertia is thought to represent the passive decay of the previous stimulus-response set from working memory, and its effects decrease with increased interstimulus interval. Closely spaced trials confer high task set inertia, while sparsely spaced trials confer low task set inertia. This functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study characterized, for the first time, two opposing brain systems engaged to resolve task set inertia: 1) a frontoparietal ‘cortical control’ network for overcoming high task set inertia interference and 2) a subcortical-motor network more active during trials with low task set inertia. These networks were distinct from brain regions showing general switching effects (i.e., switch > non-switch) and from other previously-characterized interference effects. Moreover, there were ongoing maturational effects throughout adolescence for the brain regions engaged to overcome high task set inertia not seen for generalized switching effects. These novel findings represent a new avenue of exploration of cognitive set switching neural function. PMID:22584223

Spacecraft solid state power distribution switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Praver, G. A.; Theisinger, P. C.

1986-01-01

As a spacecraft performs its mission, various loads are connected to the spacecraft power bus in response to commands from an on board computer, a function called power distribution. For the Mariner Mark II set of planetary missions, the power bus is 30 volts dc and when loads are connected or disconnected, both the bus and power return side must be switched. In addition, the power distribution function must be immune to single point failures and, when power is first applied, all switches must be in a known state. Traditionally, these requirements have been met by electromechanical latching relays. This paper describes a solid state switch which not only satisfies the requirements but incorporates several additional features including soft turn on, programmable current trip point with noise immunity, instantaneous current limiting, and direct telemetry of load currents and switch status. A breadboard of the design has been constructed and some initial test results are included.

Spiers Memorial Lecture. Molecular mechanics and molecular electronics.

PubMed

Beckman, Robert; Beverly, Kris; Boukai, Akram; Bunimovich, Yuri; Choi, Jang Wook; DeIonno, Erica; Green, Johnny; Johnston-Halperin, Ezekiel; Luo, Yi; Sheriff, Bonnie; Stoddart, Fraser; Heath, James R

2006-01-01

We describe our research into building integrated molecular electronics circuitry for a diverse set of functions, and with a focus on the fundamental scientific issues that surround this project. In particular, we discuss experiments aimed at understanding the function of bistable rotaxane molecular electronic switches by correlating the switching kinetics and ground state thermodynamic properties of those switches in various environments, ranging from the solution phase to a Langmuir monolayer of the switching molecules sandwiched between two electrodes. We discuss various devices, low bit-density memory circuits, and ultra-high density memory circuits that utilize the electrochemical switching characteristics of these molecules in conjunction with novel patterning methods. We also discuss interconnect schemes that are capable of bridging the micrometre to submicrometre length scales of conventional patterning approaches to the near-molecular length scales of the ultra-dense memory circuits. Finally, we discuss some of the challenges associated with fabricated ultra-dense molecular electronic integrated circuits.

Protection relay of phase-shifting device with thyristor switch for high voltage power transmission lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lachugin, V. F.; Panfilov, D. I.; Akhmetov, I. M.; Astashev, M. G.; Shevelev, A. V.

2014-12-01

Problems of functioning of differential current protection systems of phase shifting devices (PSD) with mechanically changed coefficient of transformation of shunt transformer are analyzed. Requirements for devices of protection of PSD with thyristor switch are formulated. Based on use of nonlinear models of series-wound and shunt transformers of PSD modes of operation of major protection during PSD, switching to zero load operation and to operation under load and during short circuit operation were studied for testing PSD with failures. Use of the principle of duplicating by devices of differential current protection (with realization of functions of breaking) of failures of separate pares of PSD with thyristor switch was substantiated. To ensure protection sensitivity to the shunt transformer winding short circuit, in particular, to a short circuit that is not implemented in the current differential protection for PSD with mechanical switch, the differential current protection reacting to the amount of primary ampere-turns of high-voltage and low-voltage winding of this transformer was designed. Studies have shown that the use of differential current cutoff instead of overcurrent protection for the shunt transformer wndings allows one to provide the sensitivity during thyristor failure with the formation of a short circuit. The results of simulation mode for the PSD with switch thyristor designed to be installed as switching point of Voskhod-Tatarskaya-Barabinsk 220 kV transmission line point out the efficiency of the developed solutions that ensure reliable functioning of the PSD.

Connectionist interpretation of the association between cognitive dissonance and attention switching.

PubMed

Matsumoto, Takao

2014-12-01

A novel connectionist model accounting for cognitive dissonance is described, in which the concepts of self and attention switching are considered. The model is composed of a unit corresponding to self, a bistable pair comprising two units relevant to two dissonant cognitions, and links whose weights correspond to cognitive evaluations. The model makes it possible to use mathematical formulas to represent the cognitive-dissonance process. Analysis reveals that the model fits experimental data of major paradigms in cognitive dissonance theory. The model shows that attention switching, which is produced by internal and external stimuli, causes building-up of cognitive dissonance and retardation of its reduction. The psychological phenomenon of selective exposure is interpreted on the basis of the operation of the model. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Strain-controlled nonvolatile magnetization switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geprägs, S.; Brandlmaier, A.; Brandt, M. S.; Gross, R.; Goennenwein, S. T. B.

2014-11-01

We investigate different approaches towards a nonvolatile switching of the remanent magnetization in single-crystalline ferromagnets at room temperature via elastic strain using ferromagnetic thin film/piezoelectric actuator hybrids. The piezoelectric actuator induces a voltage-controllable strain along different crystalline directions of the ferromagnetic thin film, resulting in modifications of its magnetization by converse magnetoelastic effects. We quantify the magnetization changes in the hybrids via ferromagnetic resonance spectroscopy and superconducting quantum interference device magnetometry. These measurements demonstrate a significant strain-induced change of the magnetization, limited by an inefficient strain transfer and domain formation in the particular system studied. To overcome these obstacles, we address practicable engineering concepts and use a model to demonstrate that a strain-controlled, nonvolatile magnetization switching should be possible in appropriately engineered ferromagnetic/piezoelectric actuator hybrids.

EDITORIAL: Molecular switches at surfaces Molecular switches at surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weinelt, Martin; von Oppen, Felix

2012-10-01

In nature, molecules exploit interaction with their environment to realize complex functionalities on the nanometer length scale. Physical, chemical and/or biological specificity is frequently achieved by the switching of molecules between microscopically different states. Paradigmatic examples are the energy production in proton pumps of bacteria or the signal conversion in human vision, which rely on switching molecules between different configurations or conformations by external stimuli. The remarkable reproducibility and unparalleled fatigue resistance of these natural processes makes it highly desirable to emulate nature and develop artificial systems with molecular functionalities. A promising avenue towards this goal is to anchor the molecular switches at surfaces, offering new pathways to control their functional properties, to apply electrical contacts, or to integrate switches into larger systems. Anchoring at surfaces allows one to access the full range from individual molecular switches to self-assembled monolayers of well-defined geometry and to customize the coupling between molecules and substrate or between adsorbed molecules. Progress in this field requires both synthesis and preparation of appropriate molecular systems and control over suitable external stimuli, such as light, heat, or electrical currents. To optimize switching and generate function, it is essential to unravel the geometric structure, the electronic properties and the dynamic interactions of the molecular switches on surfaces. This special section, Molecular Switches at Surfaces, collects 17 contributions describing different aspects of this research field. They analyze elementary processes, both in single molecules and in ensembles of molecules, which involve molecular switching and concomitant changes of optical, electronic, or magnetic properties. Two topical reviews summarize the current status, including both challenges and achievements in the field of molecular switches on metal surfaces, focusing on electronic and vibrational spectroscopy in one case and scanning tunneling microscopy studies in the other. Original research articles describe results in many aspects of the field, including: Self-assembly, self-organization, and controlled growth of molecular layers on various substrates. Highly-ordered arrays provide model systems with extraordinary structural properties, allowing one to adjust interactions between molecules and between molecule and substrate, and can be robustly prepared from solution, an essential prerequisite for applications. Conformational or electronic switching of molecules adsorbed at metal and semiconductor surfaces. These studies highlight the elementary processes governing molecular switching at surfaces as well as the wide range of possible stimuli. Carbon-based substrates such as graphene or carbon nanotubes. These substrates are attractive due to their effective two-dimensionality which implies that switching of adsorbed molecules can effect a significant back-action on the substrate. Mechanisms of conformational switching. Several contributions study the role of electron-vibron coupling and heating in current-induced conformational switching. We hope that the collection of articles presented here will stimulate and encourage researchers in surface physics and interfacial chemistry to contribute to the still emerging field of molecular switches at surfaces. We wish to acknowledge the support and input from many colleagues in preparing this special section. A significant part of this work has been conducted in the framework of the Sonderforschungsbereich 658 Elementary Processes in Molecular Switches at Surfaces of the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, to which we are grateful for financial support. Molecular surfaces at switches contents Molecular switches at surfacesMartin Weinelt and Felix von Oppen Optically and thermally induced molecular switching processes at metal surfacesPetra Tegeder Effects of electron-vibration coupling in transport through single moleculesKatharina J Franke and Jose Ignacio Pascual Vibrational heating in single-molecule switches: an energy-dependent density-of-states approachT Brumme, R Gutierrez and G Cuniberti Reversible switching of single tin phthalocyanine molecules on the InAs(111)A surfaceC Nacci, K Kanisawa and S Fölsch Tuning the interaction between carbon nanotubes and dipole switches: the influence of the change of the nanotube-spiropyran distanceP Bluemmel, A Setaro, C Maity, S Hecht and S Reich Carbon nanotubes as substrates for molecular spiropyran-based switchesE Malic, A Setaro, P Bluemmel, Carlos F Sanz-Navarro, Pablo Ordejón, S Reich and A Knorr Ultrafast dynamics of dithienylethenes differently linked to the surface of TiO2 nanoparticlesLars Dworak, Marc Zastrow, Gehad Zeyat, Karola Rück-Braun and Josef Wachtveitl Switching the electronic properties of Co-octaethylporphyrin molecules on oxygen-covered Ni films by NO adsorptionC F Hermanns, M Bernien, A Krüger, J Miguel and W Kuch STM-switching of organic molecules on semiconductor surfaces: an above threshold density matrix model for 1,5 cyclooctadiene on Si(100)K Zenichowski, Ch Nacci, S Fölsch, J Dokić, T Klamroth and P Saalfrank A switch based on self-assembled thymineFatih Kalkan, Michael Mehlhorn and Karina Morgenstern The growth and electronic structure of azobenzene-based functional molecules on layered crystalsJ Iwicki, E Ludwig, J Buck, M Kalläne, F Köhler, R Herges, L Kipp and K Rossnagel Voltage-dependent conductance states of a single-molecule junctionY F Wang, N Néel, J Kröger, H Vázquez, M Brandbyge, B Wang and R Berndt Molecules with multiple switching units on a Au(111) surface: self-organization and single-molecule manipulationJohannes Mielke, Sofia Selvanathan, Maike Peters, Jutta Schwarz, Stefan Hecht and Leonhard Grill Preparing and regulating a bi-stable molecular switch by atomic manipulationS Sakulsermsuk, R E Palmer and P A Sloan Mixed self-assembled monolayers of azobenzene photoswitches with trifluoromethyl and cyano end groupsDaniel Brete, Daniel Przyrembel, Christian Eickhoff, Robert Carley, Wolfgang Freyer, Karsten Reuter, Cornelius Gahl and Martin Weinelt Reversible electron-induced cis-trans isomerization mediated by intermolecular interactionsCh Lotze, Y Luo, M Corso, K J Franke, R Haag and J I Pascual Transport properties of graphene functionalized with molecular switchesNiels Bode, Eros Mariani and Felix von Oppen

Pulse power switch development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harvey, R.; Gallagher, H.; Hansen, S.

1980-01-01

The objective of this study program has been to define an optimum technical approach to the longer range goal of achieving practical high repetition rate high power spark gap switches. Requirements and possible means of extending the state of the art of crossed field closing switches, vacuum spark gaps, and pressurized spark gaps are presented with emphasis on reliable, efficient and compact devices operable in burst mode at 250-300 kV, 40-60 kA, =1 kHz with approximately 50 nsec pulses rising in approximately 3 ns. Models of these devices are discussed which are based upon published and generated design data and on underlying physical principles. Based upon its relative advantages, limitations and tradeoffs we conclude that the Hughes Crossatron switch is the nearest term approach to reach the switch goal levels. Theoretical, experimental, and computer simulation models of the plasma show a collective ion acceleration mechanism to be active which is predicted to result in current rise times approaching 10 nsec. A preliminary design concept is presented. For faster rise times we have shown a vacuum surface flashover switch to be an interesting candidate. This device is limited by trigger instabilities and will require further basic development. The problem areas relevant to high pressure spark gaps are reviewed.

Clustering and Flow Conservation Monitoring Tool for Software Defined Networks.

PubMed

Puente Fernández, Jesús Antonio; García Villalba, Luis Javier; Kim, Tai-Hoon

2018-04-03

Prediction systems present some challenges on two fronts: the relation between video quality and observed session features and on the other hand, dynamics changes on the video quality. Software Defined Networks (SDN) is a new concept of network architecture that provides the separation of control plane (controller) and data plane (switches) in network devices. Due to the existence of the southbound interface, it is possible to deploy monitoring tools to obtain the network status and retrieve a statistics collection. Therefore, achieving the most accurate statistics depends on a strategy of monitoring and information requests of network devices. In this paper, we propose an enhanced algorithm for requesting statistics to measure the traffic flow in SDN networks. Such an algorithm is based on grouping network switches in clusters focusing on their number of ports to apply different monitoring techniques. Such grouping occurs by avoiding monitoring queries in network switches with common characteristics and then, by omitting redundant information. In this way, the present proposal decreases the number of monitoring queries to switches, improving the network traffic and preventing the switching overload. We have tested our optimization in a video streaming simulation using different types of videos. The experiments and comparison with traditional monitoring techniques demonstrate the feasibility of our proposal maintaining similar values decreasing the number of queries to the switches.

Deep Brain Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus Improves Lexical Switching in Parkinsons Disease Patients.

PubMed

Vonberg, Isabelle; Ehlen, Felicitas; Fromm, Ortwin; Kühn, Andrea A; Klostermann, Fabian

2016-01-01

Reduced verbal fluency (VF) has been reported in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), especially those treated by Deep Brain Stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus (STN DBS). To delineate the nature of this dysfunction we aimed at identifying the particular VF-related operations modified by STN DBS. Eleven PD patients performed VF tasks in their STN DBS ON and OFF condition. To differentiate VF-components modulated by the stimulation, a temporal cluster analysis was performed, separating production spurts (i.e., 'clusters' as correlates of automatic activation spread within lexical fields) from slower cluster transitions (i.e., 'switches' reflecting set-shifting towards new lexical fields). The results were compared to those of eleven healthy control subjects. PD patients produced significantly more switches accompanied by shorter switch times in the STN DBS ON compared to the STN DBS OFF condition. The number of clusters and time intervals between words within clusters were not affected by the treatment state. Although switch behavior in patients with DBS ON improved, their task performance was still lower compared to that of healthy controls. Beyond impacting on motor symptoms, STN DBS seems to influence the dynamics of cognitive procedures. Specifically, the results are in line with basal ganglia roles for cognitive switching, in the particular case of VF, from prevailing lexical concepts to new ones.

A versatile cis-acting inverter module for synthetic translational switches.

PubMed

Endo, Kei; Hayashi, Karin; Inoue, Tan; Saito, Hirohide

2013-01-01

Artificial genetic switches have been designed and tuned individually in living cells. A method to directly invert an existing OFF switch to an ON switch should be highly convenient to construct complex circuits from well-characterized modules, but developing such a technique has remained a challenge. Here we present a cis-acting RNA module to invert the function of a synthetic translational OFF switch to an ON switch in mammalian cells. This inversion maintains the property of the parental switch in response to a particular input signal. In addition, we demonstrate simultaneous and specific expression control of both the OFF and ON switches. The module fits the criteria of universality and expands the versatility of mRNA-based information processing systems developed for artificially controlling mammalian cellular behaviour.

Characteristics of plasma-puff trigger for a inverse-pinch plasma switch

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Choi, Eun H.; Venable, Demetrius D.; Han, Kwang S.; Lee, Ja H.

1993-01-01

The plasma-puff triggering mechanism based on a hypocycloidal pinch geometry was investigated to determine the optimal operating conditions for the azimuthally uniform surface flashover which initiates plasma-puff under wide ranges of fill gas pressure of Ar, He and N2. The optimal fill-gas pressure range for the azimuthally uniform plasma-puff was about 120 mTorr less than or equal to P(sub op) less than or equal to 450 Torr for He and N2. For Argon 120 mTorr is less than or equal to P(sub op) is less than or equal to 5 Torr. The inverse-pinch switch was triggered with the plasma-puff and the switching capability under various electrical parameters and working gas pressures of Ar, He and N2 was determined. The azimuthally uniform switching discharges were dependent on the type of fill gas and its fill pressure. A new concept of plasma-focus driven plasma-puff will be discussed in comparison with the current hypocycloidal-pinch plasma-puff triggering.

Switchable DNA wire: deposition-stripping of copper nanoclusters as an "ON-OFF" nanoswitch.

PubMed

Zhu, Xiaoli; Liu, Siyu; Cao, Jiepei; Mao, Xiaoxia; Li, Genxi

2016-01-19

Today, a consensus that DNA working as a molecular wire shows promise in nanoscale electronics is reached. Considering that the "ON-OFF" switch is the basis of a logic circuit, the switch of DNA-mediated charge transport (DNA CT) should be conquered. Here, on the basis of chemical or electrochemical deposition and stripping of DNA-templated copper nanoclusters (CuNCs), we develop an "ON-OFF" nanoswitch for DNA CT. While CuNCs are deposited, the DNA CT is blocked, which can be also recovered after stripping the CuNCs. A switch cycle can be completed in a few seconds and can be repeated for many times. Moreover, by regulating the amount of reagents, deposition/stripping time, applied potential, etc., the switch is adjustable to make the wire at either an "ON-OFF" state or an intermediate state. We believe that this concept and the successful implementation will promote the practical application of DNA wire one step further.

Magnetization switching schemes for nanoscale three-terminal spintronics devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fukami, Shunsuke; Ohno, Hideo

2017-08-01

Utilizing spintronics-based nonvolatile memories in integrated circuits offers a promising approach to realize ultralow-power and high-performance electronics. While two-terminal devices with spin-transfer torque switching have been extensively developed nowadays, there has been a growing interest in devices with a three-terminal structure. Of primary importance for applications is the efficient manipulation of magnetization, corresponding to information writing, in nanoscale devices. Here we review the studies of current-induced domain wall motion and spin-orbit torque-induced switching, which can be applied to the write operation of nanoscale three-terminal spintronics devices. For domain wall motion, the size dependence of device properties down to less than 20 nm will be shown and the underlying mechanism behind the results will be discussed. For spin-orbit torque-induced switching, factors governing the threshold current density and strategies to reduce it will be discussed. A proof-of-concept demonstration of artificial intelligence using an analog spin-orbit torque device will also be reviewed.

Switchable DNA wire: deposition-stripping of copper nanoclusters as an “ON-OFF” nanoswitch

PubMed Central

Zhu, Xiaoli; Liu, Siyu; Cao, Jiepei; Mao, Xiaoxia; Li, Genxi

2016-01-01

Today, a consensus that DNA working as a molecular wire shows promise in nanoscale electronics is reached. Considering that the “ON-OFF” switch is the basis of a logic circuit, the switch of DNA-mediated charge transport (DNA CT) should be conquered. Here, on the basis of chemical or electrochemical deposition and stripping of DNA-templated copper nanoclusters (CuNCs), we develop an “ON-OFF” nanoswitch for DNA CT. While CuNCs are deposited, the DNA CT is blocked, which can be also recovered after stripping the CuNCs. A switch cycle can be completed in a few seconds and can be repeated for many times. Moreover, by regulating the amount of reagents, deposition/stripping time, applied potential, etc., the switch is adjustable to make the wire at either an “ON-OFF” state or an intermediate state. We believe that this concept and the successful implementation will promote the practical application of DNA wire one step further. PMID:26781761

Ovonic type switching in tin selenide thin films

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baxter, C. R.; Mclennan, W. D.

1975-01-01

Amorphous tin selenide thin films which possess Ovonic type switching properties are fabricated using vacuum deposition techniques. The devices are fabricated in a planar configuration and consist of amorphous tin selenide deposited over silver contacts. Results obtained indicate that Ovonic type memory switching does occur in these films with the energy density required for switching from a high impedance to a low impedance state being dependent on the spacing between the electrodes of the device. There is also a strong implication that the switching is a function of the magnitude of the applied voltage pulse.

Antenna reconfiguration verification and validation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Becker, Robert C. (Inventor); Meyers, David W. (Inventor); Muldoon, Kelly P. (Inventor); Carlson, Douglas R. (Inventor); Drexler, Jerome P. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

A method of testing the electrical functionality of an optically controlled switch in a reconfigurable antenna is provided. The method includes configuring one or more conductive paths between one or more feed points and one or more test point with switches in the reconfigurable antenna. Applying one or more test signals to the one or more feed points. Monitoring the one or more test points in response to the one or more test signals and determining the functionality of the switch based upon the monitoring of the one or more test points.

Patients with Fabry Disease after Enzyme Replacement Therapy Dose Reduction Versus Treatment Switch

PubMed Central

Krämer, Johannes; Duning, Thomas; Lenders, Malte; Canaan-Kühl, Sima; Krebs, Alice; González, Hans Guerrero; Sommer, Claudia; Üçeyler, Nurcan; Niemann, Markus; Störk, Stefan; Schelleckes, Michael; Reiermann, Stefanie; Stypmann, Jörg; Brand, Stefan-Martin; Wanner, Christoph; Brand, Eva

2014-01-01

Because of the shortage of agalsidase-beta in 2009, many patients with Fabry disease were treated with lower doses or were switched to agalsidase-alfa. This observational study assessed end-organ damage and clinical symptoms during dose reduction or switch to agalsidase-alfa. A total of 105 adult patients with Fabry disease who had received agalsidase-beta (1.0 mg/kg body weight) for ≥1 year were nonrandomly assigned to continue this treatment regimen (regular-dose group, n=38), receive a reduced dose of 0.3–0.5 mg/kg (dose-reduction group, n=29), or switch to 0.2 mg/kg agalsidase-alfa (switch group) and were followed prospectively for 1 year. We assessed clinical events (death, myocardial infarction, severe arrhythmia, stroke, progression to ESRD); changes in cardiac, renal, and neurologic function; and Fabry-related symptoms (neuropathic pain, hypohidrosis, diarrhea, and disease severity scores). Organ function and Fabry-related symptoms remained stable in the regular-dose group. In contrast, estimated GFR decreased by about 3 ml/min per 1.73 m2 (P=0.01) in the dose-reduction group, and the median albumin-to-creatinine ratio increased from 114 (0–606) mg/g to 216 (0–2062) mg/g (P=0.03) in the switch group. Furthermore, mean Mainz Severity Score Index scores and frequencies of pain attacks, chronic pain, gastrointestinal pain, and diarrhea increased significantly in the dose-reduction and switch groups. In conclusion, patients receiving regular agalsidase-beta dose had a stable disease course, but dose reduction led to worsening of renal function and symptoms. Switching to agalsidase-alfa is safe, but microalbuminuria may progress and Fabry-related symptoms may deteriorate. PMID:24556354

Effects of switching from agalsidase Beta to agalsidase alfa in 10 patients with anderson-fabry disease.

PubMed

Pisani, A; Spinelli, L; Visciano, B; Capuano, I; Sabbatini, M; Riccio, E; Messalli, G; Imbriaco, M

2013-01-01

Anderson-Fabry disease (AFD) is a multiorgan X-linked lysosomal storage disease that particularly affects the heart, kidneys, and cerebrovascular system. Current treatment is enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with agalsidase beta (Fabrazyme(®), Genzyme Corporation, Cambridge, MA, USA) or agalsidase alfa (Replagal(®), Shire Human Genetic Therapies AB, Lund, Sweden). It was recommended that patients switch to agalsidase alfa due to a manufacturing shortage of agalsidase beta beginning in June 2009. This study assessed the effect of switching to agalsidase alfa on clinical outcomes in patients with AFD previously treated with agalsidase beta. Ten patients (seven male, three female) with genetically confirmed AFD and at least 48 months' continuous data collected during treatment with agalsidase beta 1 mg/kg every other week were switched to agalsidase alfa 0.2 mg/kg every other week for at least 20 months, with prospective clinical evaluations every 6 months. Pre-switch data was collected retrospectively from patient charts. Cardiac functional parameters were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging. Results showed that renal function was normal (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) in 8 of 10 patients prior to agalsidase alfa and generally remained stable after the switch. Cardiac mass decreased significantly (p < 0.05 vs pre-ERT) after agalsidase beta and remained unchanged after switching to agalsidase alfa. Symptoms of pain and health status scores did not deteriorate during agalsidase alfa therapy. Adverse events were mostly mild and infusion related. In conclusion, switching to agalsidase alfa was relatively well tolerated and associated with stable clinical status and preserved renal and cardiac function.

Patients with Fabry disease after enzyme replacement therapy dose reduction versus treatment switch.

PubMed

Weidemann, Frank; Krämer, Johannes; Duning, Thomas; Lenders, Malte; Canaan-Kühl, Sima; Krebs, Alice; Guerrero González, Hans; Sommer, Claudia; Üçeyler, Nurcan; Niemann, Markus; Störk, Stefan; Schelleckes, Michael; Reiermann, Stefanie; Stypmann, Jörg; Brand, Stefan-Martin; Wanner, Christoph; Brand, Eva

2014-04-01

Because of the shortage of agalsidase-beta in 2009, many patients with Fabry disease were treated with lower doses or were switched to agalsidase-alfa. This observational study assessed end-organ damage and clinical symptoms during dose reduction or switch to agalsidase-alfa. A total of 105 adult patients with Fabry disease who had received agalsidase-beta (1.0 mg/kg body weight) for ≥1 year were nonrandomly assigned to continue this treatment regimen (regular-dose group, n=38), receive a reduced dose of 0.3-0.5 mg/kg (dose-reduction group, n=29), or switch to 0.2 mg/kg agalsidase-alfa (switch group) and were followed prospectively for 1 year. We assessed clinical events (death, myocardial infarction, severe arrhythmia, stroke, progression to ESRD); changes in cardiac, renal, and neurologic function; and Fabry-related symptoms (neuropathic pain, hypohidrosis, diarrhea, and disease severity scores). Organ function and Fabry-related symptoms remained stable in the regular-dose group. In contrast, estimated GFR decreased by about 3 ml/min per 1.73 m(2) (P=0.01) in the dose-reduction group, and the median albumin-to-creatinine ratio increased from 114 (0-606) mg/g to 216 (0-2062) mg/g (P=0.03) in the switch group. Furthermore, mean Mainz Severity Score Index scores and frequencies of pain attacks, chronic pain, gastrointestinal pain, and diarrhea increased significantly in the dose-reduction and switch groups. In conclusion, patients receiving regular agalsidase-beta dose had a stable disease course, but dose reduction led to worsening of renal function and symptoms. Switching to agalsidase-alfa is safe, but microalbuminuria may progress and Fabry-related symptoms may deteriorate.

The HILDA Complex Coordinates a Conditional Switch in the 3′-Untranslated Region of the VEGFA mRNA

PubMed Central

Yao, Peng; Potdar, Alka A.; Ray, Partho Sarothi; Eswarappa, Sandeepa M.; Flagg, Andrew C.; Willard, Belinda; Fox, Paul L.

2013-01-01

Cell regulatory circuits integrate diverse, and sometimes conflicting, environmental cues to generate appropriate, condition-dependent responses. Here, we elucidate the components and mechanisms driving a protein-directed RNA switch in the 3′UTR of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A. We describe a novel HILDA (hypoxia-inducible hnRNP L–DRBP76–hnRNP A2/B1) complex that coordinates a three-element RNA switch, enabling VEGFA mRNA translation during combined hypoxia and inflammation. In addition to binding the CA-rich element (CARE), heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) L regulates switch assembly and function. hnRNP L undergoes two previously unrecognized, condition-dependent posttranslational modifications: IFN-γ induces prolyl hydroxylation and von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)-mediated proteasomal degradation, whereas hypoxia stimulates hnRNP L phosphorylation at Tyr359, inducing binding to hnRNP A2/B1, which stabilizes the protein. Also, phospho-hnRNP L recruits DRBP76 (double-stranded RNA binding protein 76) to the 3′UTR, where it binds an adjacent AU-rich stem-loop (AUSL) element, “flipping” the RNA switch by disrupting the GAIT (interferon-gamma-activated inhibitor of translation) element, preventing GAIT complex binding, and driving robust VEGFA mRNA translation. The signal-dependent, HILDA complex coordinates the function of a trio of neighboring RNA elements, thereby regulating translation of VEGFA and potentially other mRNA targets. The VEGFA RNA switch might function to ensure appropriate angiogenesis and tissue oxygenation during conflicting signals from combined inflammation and hypoxia. We propose the VEGFA RNA switch as an archetype for signal-activated, protein-directed, multi-element RNA switches that regulate posttranscriptional gene expression in complex environments. PMID:23976881

Excited-state potential-energy surfaces of metal-adsorbed organic molecules from linear expansion Δ-self-consistent field density-functional theory (ΔSCF-DFT).

PubMed

Maurer, Reinhard J; Reuter, Karsten

2013-07-07

Accurate and efficient simulation of excited state properties is an important and much aspired cornerstone in the study of adsorbate dynamics on metal surfaces. To this end, the recently proposed linear expansion Δ-self-consistent field method by Gavnholt et al. [Phys. Rev. B 78, 075441 (2008)] presents an efficient alternative to time consuming quasi-particle calculations. In this method, the standard Kohn-Sham equations of density-functional theory are solved with the constraint of a non-equilibrium occupation in a region of Hilbert-space resembling gas-phase orbitals of the adsorbate. In this work, we discuss the applicability of this method for the excited-state dynamics of metal-surface mounted organic adsorbates, specifically in the context of molecular switching. We present necessary advancements to allow for a consistent quality description of excited-state potential-energy surfaces (PESs), and illustrate the concept with the application to Azobenzene adsorbed on Ag(111) and Au(111) surfaces. We find that the explicit inclusion of substrate electronic states modifies the topologies of intra-molecular excited-state PESs of the molecule due to image charge and hybridization effects. While the molecule in gas phase shows a clear energetic separation of resonances that induce isomerization and backreaction, the surface-adsorbed molecule does not. The concomitant possibly simultaneous induction of both processes would lead to a significantly reduced switching efficiency of such a mechanism.

Free-Space Optical Switch Modules Using Risley Optical Beam Deflectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsui, Takashi; Oohira, Fumikazu; Hosogi, Maho; Yamamoto, Tsuyoshi

2006-03-01

This paper describes new optical switch modules based on Risley optical beam deflectors. The Risley deflector consists of two wedge-shaped prisms and precisely controllable rotation mechanisms. An optical beam can be deflected to the direction of two axes by rotating each prism independently. The deflectors potentially have a self-latching function, which provides a reliable switching operation, and a large-deflection angle of 19.2°, which makes the switch compact. We experimentally confirmed that prototype switch modules, hardware volume: 15× 15× 31 mm3, deflection angle: <19.2°, have a scalability of the switch up to 256 ports, low-loss characteristics of 1.0-1.5 dB, and switching time of within 6 s.

Inhibition and Updating, but Not Switching, Predict Developmental Dyslexia and Individual Variation in Reading Ability

PubMed Central

Doyle, Caoilainn; Smeaton, Alan F.; Roche, Richard A. P.; Boran, Lorraine

2018-01-01

To elucidate the core executive function profile (strengths and weaknesses in inhibition, updating, and switching) associated with dyslexia, this study explored executive function in 27 children with dyslexia and 29 age matched controls using sensitive z-mean measures of each ability and controlled for individual differences in processing speed. This study found that developmental dyslexia is associated with inhibition and updating, but not switching impairments, at the error z-mean composite level, whilst controlling for processing speed. Inhibition and updating (but not switching) error composites predicted both dyslexia likelihood and reading ability across the full range of variation from typical to atypical. The predictive relationships were such that those with poorer performance on inhibition and updating measures were significantly more likely to have a diagnosis of developmental dyslexia and also demonstrate poorer reading ability. These findings suggest that inhibition and updating abilities are associated with developmental dyslexia and predict reading ability. Future studies should explore executive function training as an intervention for children with dyslexia as core executive functions appear to be modifiable with training and may transfer to improved reading ability. PMID:29892245

Comparison of patients undergoing switching versus augmentation of antipsychotic medications during treatment for schizophrenia.

PubMed

Ascher-Svanum, Haya; Brnabic, Alan Jm; Lawson, Anthony H; Kinon, Bruce J; Stauffer, Virginia L; Feldman, Peter D; Kelin, Katarina

2012-01-01

It is often difficult to determine whether a patient may best benefit by augmenting their current medication or switching them to another. This post-hoc analysis compares patients' clinical and functional profiles at the time their antipsychotic medications were either switched or augmented. Adult outpatients receiving oral antipsychotic treatment for schizophrenia were assessed during a 12-month international observational study. Clinical and functional measures were assessed at the time of first treatment switch/augmentation (0-14 days prior) and compared between Switched and Augmented patient groups. Due to low numbers of patients providing such data, interpretations are based on effect sizes. Data at the time of change were available for 87 patients: 53 Switched and 34 Augmented. Inadequate response was the primary reason for treatment change in both groups, whereas lack of adherence was more prevalent in the Switched group (26.4% vs 8.8%). Changes in clinical severity from study initiation to medication change were similar, as indicated by Clinical Global Impressions-Severity scores. However, physical and mental component scores of the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey improved in the Augmented group, but worsened in the Switched group. These findings suggest that the patient's worsening or lack of meaningful improvement prompts clinicians to switch antipsychotic medications, whereas when patients show some improvement, clinicians may be more likely to try bolstering the improvements through augmentation. Current findings are consistent with physicians' stated reasons for switching versus augmenting antipsychotics in the treatment of schizophrenia. Confirmation of these findings requires further research.

Switch-task performance in rats is disturbed by 12 h of sleep deprivation but not by 12 h of sleep fragmentation.

PubMed

Leenaars, Cathalijn H C; Joosten, Ruud N J M A; Zwart, Allard; Sandberg, Hans; Ruimschotel, Emma; Hanegraaf, Maaike A J; Dematteis, Maurice; Feenstra, Matthijs G P; van Someren, Eus J W

2012-02-01

Task-switching is an executive function involving the prefrontal cortex. Switching temporarily attenuates the speed and/or accuracy of performance, phenomena referred to as switch costs. In accordance with the idea that prefrontal function is particularly sensitive to sleep loss, switch-costs increase during prolonged waking in humans. It has been difficult to investigate the underlying neurobiological mechanisms because of the lack of a suitable animal model. Here, we introduce the first switch-task for rats and report the effects of sleep deprivation and inactivation of the medial prefrontal cortex. Rats were trained to repeatedly switch between 2 stimulus-response associations, indicated by the presentation of a visual or an auditory stimulus. These stimulus-response associations were offered in blocks, and performance was compared for the first and fifth trials of each block. Performance was tested after exposure to 12 h of total sleep deprivation, sleep fragmentation, and their respective movement control conditions. Finally, it was tested after pharmacological inactivation of the medial prefrontal cortex. Controlled laboratory settings. 15 male Wistar rats. Both accuracy and latency showed switch-costs at baseline. Twelve hours of total sleep deprivation, but not sleep fragmentation, impaired accuracy selectively on the switch-trials. Inactivation of the medial prefrontal cortex by local neuronal inactivation resulted in an overall decrease in accuracy. We developed and validated a switch-task that is sensitive to sleep deprivation. This introduces the possibility for in-depth investigations on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying executive impairments after sleep disturbance in a rat model.

A network control concept for the 30/20 GHz communication system baseband processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sabourin, D. J.; Hay, R. E.

1982-01-01

The architecture and system design for a satellite-switched TDMA communication system employing on-board processing was developed by Motorola for NASA's Lewis Research Center. The system design is based on distributed processing techniques that provide extreme flexibility in the selection of a network control protocol without impacting the satellite or ground terminal hardware. A network control concept that includes system synchronization and allows burst synchronization to occur within the system operational requirement is described. This concept integrates the tracking and control links with the communication links via the baseband processor, resulting in an autonomous system operational approach.

Fiber-optic beam control systems using microelectromechanical systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sumriddetchkajorn, Sarun

This dissertation, for the first time, proposes, studies, and experimentally demonstrated novel fiber-optic beam control systems based on the use of microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology in which the miniaturized versions of mechanical systems can be obtained. Beam control modules include optical add/drop filters, optical switches, variable photonic delay lines (VPDLs), and variable optical attenuators (VOAs). The optical add/drop filter functions as a multiwavelength optical switch that offers the ability to drop and add a certain number of desired wavelengths at an intermediate location where access to all the propagating optical channels is not required between transmission terminals. The VOA can also be used in networks where stocking and tracking of fixed attenuators is difficult. Other specific applications of the VOA are optical gain equalization and polarization dependent loss and gain compensation required in high data-rate wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) lightwave systems. A VPDL can be used to adjust timing amongst multiwavelength optical signals in order to reduce timing jitter and burst traffic in photonic packet switching and parallel signal processing systems. In this dissertation, a small tilt micromirror device is proposed for the implementation of all fiber-optic beam control modules. In particular, the macro-pixel approach where several micromirrors are used to manipulate the desired optical beam is introduced to realize high speed and fault tolerant beam control modules. To eliminate the need of careful optical alignment, an all fiber-connectorized multiwavelength optical switch structure is presented and experimentally demonstrated by using a fiber-loop mirror concept with polarization control. In addition, liquid crystal (LC) devices are studied and are used to implement a compact retro- reflective 2 x 2 fiber-optic switch. Compared to MEMS- based mirror technology, the LC technology is more sensitive to temperature, thereby inappropriate to deploy in a harsh environment. With the benefit provided by WDM systems, wavelength sensitive fiber-optic beam controllers are proposed, offering wavelength sensitive time delay and amplitude controls that can be applied in several applications ranging from optical communications to high speed parallel signal processing. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

High-performance silicon photonic tri-state switch based on balanced nested Mach-Zehnder interferometer.

PubMed

Lu, Zeqin; Celo, Dritan; Mehrvar, Hamid; Bernier, Eric; Chrostowski, Lukas

2017-09-25

This work proposes a novel silicon photonic tri-state (cross/bar/blocking) switch, featuring high-speed switching, broadband operation, and crosstalk-free performance. The switch is designed based on a 2 × 2 balanced nested Mach-Zehnder interferometer structure with carrier injection phase tuning. As compared to silicon photonic dual-state (cross/bar) switches based on Mach-Zehnder interferometers with carrier injection phase tuning, the proposed switch not only has better performance in cross/bar switching but also provides an extra blocking state. The unique blocking state has a great advantage in applications of N × N switch fabrics, where idle switching elements in the fabrics can be configured to the blocking state for crosstalk suppression. According to our numerical experiments on a fully loaded 8 × 8 dilated Banyan switch fabric, the worst output crosstalk of the 8 × 8 switch can be dramatically suppressed by more than 50 dB, by assigning the blocking state to idle switching elements in the fabric. The results of this work can extend the functionality of silicon photonic switches and significantly improve the performance of on-chip N × N photonic switching technologies.

Theoretical Insights into the Biophysics of Protein Bi-stability and Evolutionary Switches

PubMed Central

Krobath, Heinrich; Chan, Hue Sun

2016-01-01

Deciphering the effects of nonsynonymous mutations on protein structure is central to many areas of biomedical research and is of fundamental importance to the study of molecular evolution. Much of the investigation of protein evolution has focused on mutations that leave a protein’s folded structure essentially unchanged. However, to evolve novel folds of proteins, mutations that lead to large conformational modifications have to be involved. Unraveling the basic biophysics of such mutations is a challenge to theory, especially when only one or two amino acid substitutions cause a large-scale conformational switch. Among the few such mutational switches identified experimentally, the one between the GA all-α and GB α+β folds is extensively characterized; but all-atom simulations using fully transferrable potentials have not been able to account for this striking switching behavior. Here we introduce an explicit-chain model that combines structure-based native biases for multiple alternative structures with a general physical atomic force field, and apply this construct to twelve mutants spanning the sequence variation between GA and GB. In agreement with experiment, we observe conformational switching from GA to GB upon a single L45Y substitution in the GA98 mutant. In line with the latent evolutionary potential concept, our model shows a gradual sequence-dependent change in fold preference in the mutants before this switch. Our analysis also indicates that a sharp GA/GB switch may arise from the orientation dependence of aromatic π-interactions. These findings provide physical insights toward rationalizing, predicting and designing evolutionary conformational switches. PMID:27253392

A model-based analysis of impulsivity using a slot-machine gambling paradigm

PubMed Central

Paliwal, Saee; Petzschner, Frederike H.; Schmitz, Anna Katharina; Tittgemeyer, Marc; Stephan, Klaas E.

2014-01-01

Impulsivity plays a key role in decision-making under uncertainty. It is a significant contributor to problem and pathological gambling (PG). Standard assessments of impulsivity by questionnaires, however, have various limitations, partly because impulsivity is a broad, multi-faceted concept. What remains unclear is which of these facets contribute to shaping gambling behavior. In the present study, we investigated impulsivity as expressed in a gambling setting by applying computational modeling to data from 47 healthy male volunteers who played a realistic, virtual slot-machine gambling task. Behaviorally, we found that impulsivity, as measured independently by the 11th revision of the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11), correlated significantly with an aggregate read-out of the following gambling responses: bet increases (BIs), machines switches (MS), casino switches (CS), and double-ups (DUs). Using model comparison, we compared a set of hierarchical Bayesian belief-updating models, i.e., the Hierarchical Gaussian Filter (HGF) and Rescorla–Wagner reinforcement learning (RL) models, with regard to how well they explained different aspects of the behavioral data. We then examined the construct validity of our winning models with multiple regression, relating subject-specific model parameter estimates to the individual BIS-11 total scores. In the most predictive model (a three-level HGF), the two free parameters encoded uncertainty-dependent mechanisms of belief updates and significantly explained BIS-11 variance across subjects. Furthermore, in this model, decision noise was a function of trial-wise uncertainty about winning probability. Collectively, our results provide a proof of concept that hierarchical Bayesian models can characterize the decision-making mechanisms linked to the impulsive traits of an individual. These novel indices of gambling mechanisms unmasked during actual play may be useful for online prevention measures for at-risk players and future assessments of PG. PMID:25071497

Electrically tunable terahertz polarization converter based on overcoupled metal-isolator-metal metamaterials infiltrated with liquid crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasić, Borislav; Zografopoulos, Dimitrios C.; Isić, Goran; Beccherelli, Romeo; Gajić, Radoš

2017-03-01

Large birefringence and its electrical modulation by means of Fréedericksz transition makes nematic liquid crystals (LCs) a promising platform for tunable terahertz (THz) devices. The thickness of standard LC cells is in the order of the wavelength, requiring high driving voltages and allowing only a very slow modulation at THz frequencies. Here, we first present the concept of overcoupled metal-isolator-metal (MIM) cavities that allow for achieving simultaneously both very high phase difference between orthogonal electric field components and large reflectance. We then apply this concept to LC-infiltrated MIM-based metamaterials aiming at the design of electrically tunable THz polarization converters. The optimal operation in the overcoupled regime is provided by properly selecting the thickness of the LC cell. Instead of the LC natural birefringence, the polarization-dependent functionality stems from the optical anisotropy of ultrathin and deeply subwavelength MIM structures. The dynamic electro-optic control of the LC refractive index enables the spectral shift of the resonant mode and, consequently, the tuning of the phase difference between the two orthogonal field components. This tunability is further enhanced by the large confinement of the resonant electromagnetic fields within the MIM cavity. We show that for an appropriately chosen linearly polarized incident field, the polarization state of the reflected field at the target operation frequency can be continuously swept between the north and south pole of the Poincaré sphere. Using a rigorous Q-tensor model to simulate the LC electro-optic switching, we demonstrate that the enhanced light-matter interaction in the MIM resonant cavity allows the polarization converter to operate at driving voltages below 10 Volt and with millisecond switching times.

Electrically tunable terahertz polarization converter based on overcoupled metal-isolator-metal metamaterials infiltrated with liquid crystals.

PubMed

Vasić, Borislav; Zografopoulos, Dimitrios C; Isić, Goran; Beccherelli, Romeo; Gajić, Radoš

2017-03-24

Large birefringence and its electrical modulation by means of Fréedericksz transition makes nematic liquid crystals (LCs) a promising platform for tunable terahertz (THz) devices. The thickness of standard LC cells is in the order of the wavelength, requiring high driving voltages and allowing only a very slow modulation at THz frequencies. Here, we first present the concept of overcoupled metal-isolator-metal (MIM) cavities that allow for achieving simultaneously both very high phase difference between orthogonal electric field components and large reflectance. We then apply this concept to LC-infiltrated MIM-based metamaterials aiming at the design of electrically tunable THz polarization converters. The optimal operation in the overcoupled regime is provided by properly selecting the thickness of the LC cell. Instead of the LC natural birefringence, the polarization-dependent functionality stems from the optical anisotropy of ultrathin and deeply subwavelength MIM structures. The dynamic electro-optic control of the LC refractive index enables the spectral shift of the resonant mode and, consequently, the tuning of the phase difference between the two orthogonal field components. This tunability is further enhanced by the large confinement of the resonant electromagnetic fields within the MIM cavity. We show that for an appropriately chosen linearly polarized incident field, the polarization state of the reflected field at the target operation frequency can be continuously swept between the north and south pole of the Poincaré sphere. Using a rigorous Q-tensor model to simulate the LC electro-optic switching, we demonstrate that the enhanced light-matter interaction in the MIM resonant cavity allows the polarization converter to operate at driving voltages below 10 Volt and with millisecond switching times.

Development of Electronic Load Controllers for Free-Piston Stirling Convertors Aided by Stirling Simulation Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Regan, Timothy F.

2004-01-01

The free-piston Stirling convertor end-to-end modeling effort at the NASA Glenn Research Center has produced a software-based test bed in which free-piston Stirling convertors can be simulated and evaluated. The simulation model includes all the components of the convertor: the Stirling cycle engine, heat source, linear alternator, controller, and load. So far, it has been used in evaluating the performance of electronic controller designs. Three different controller design concepts were simulated using the model: 1) Controllers with parasitic direct current loading. 2) Controllers with parasitic alternating current loading. 3) Controllers that maintain a reference current. The free-piston Stirling convertor is an electromechanical device that operates at resonance. It is the function of the electronic load controller to ensure that the electrical load seen by the machine is always great enough to keep the amplitude of the piston and alternator oscillation at the rated value. This is done by regulating the load on the output bus. The controller monitors the instantaneous voltage, regulating it by switching loads called parasitic loads onto the bus whenever the bus voltage is too high and removing them whenever the voltage is too low. In the first type of controller, the monitor-ing and switching are done on the direct-current (dc) bus. In the second type, the alternating current bus is used. The model allows designers to test a controller concept before investing time in hardware. The simulation code used to develop the model also offers detailed models of digital and analog electronic components so that the resulting designs are realistic enough to translate directly into hardware circuits.

Micro reactor integrated μ-PEM fuel cell system: a feed connector and flow field free approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balakrishnan, A.; Mueller, C.; Reinecke, H.

2013-12-01

A system level microreactor concept for hydrogen generation with Sodium Borohydride (NaBH4) is demonstrated. The uniqueness of the system is the transport and distribution feature of fuel (hydrogen) to the anode of the fuel cell without any external feed connectors and flow fields. The approach here is to use palladium film instead of feed connectors and the flow fields; palladium's property to adsorb and desorb the hydrogen at ambient and elevated condition. The proof of concept is demonstrated with a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) based complete system integration which includes microreactor, palladium transport layer and the self-breathing polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The hydrolysis of NaBH4 was carried out in the presence of platinum supported by nickel (NiPt). The prototype functionality is tested with NaBH4 chemical hydride. The characterization of the integrated palladium layer and fuel cell is tested with constant and switching load. The presented integrated fuel cell is observed to have a maximum power output and current of 60 mW and 280 mA respectively.

Liquid-Metal-Fed Pulsed Electromagnetic Thrusters For In-Space Propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Markusic, T. E.

2004-01-01

We describe three pulsed electromagnetic thruster concepts, which span four orders of magnitude in power processing capability (100 W to >100 kW), for in-space propulsion applications. The primary motivation for using a pulsed system is to is to enable high (instantaneous) power operation, which provides high acceleration efficiency, while using considerably less (continuous) power from the spacecraft power system. Unfortunately, conventional pulsed thrusters require failure-prone electrical switches and gas-puff valves. The series of thrusters described here directly address this problem, through the use of liquid metal propellant, by either eliminating both components or providing less taxing operational requirements, thus yielding a path toward both efficient and reliable pulsed electromagnetic thrusters. The emphasis of this paper is to conceptually describe each of the thruster concepts; however, initial test results with gallium propellant in one thruster geometry are presented. These tests reveal that a greater understanding of gallium material compatibility, contamination, and wetting behavior will be necessary before a completely functional thruster can be developed. Initial experimental results aimed at providing insight into these issues are presented.

Redox regulation of mitochondrial proteins and proteomes by cysteine thiol switches.

PubMed

Nietzel, Thomas; Mostertz, Jörg; Hochgräfe, Falko; Schwarzländer, Markus

2017-03-01

Mitochondria are hotspots of cellular redox biochemistry. Respiration as a defining mitochondrial function is made up of a series of electron transfers that are ultimately coupled to maintaining the proton motive force, ATP production and cellular energy supply. The individual reaction steps involved require tight control and flexible regulation to maintain energy and redox balance in the cell under fluctuating demands. Redox regulation by thiol switching has been a long-standing candidate mechanism to support rapid adjustment of mitochondrial protein function at the posttranslational level. Here we review recent advances in our understanding of cysteine thiol switches in the mitochondrial proteome with a focus on their operation in vivo. We assess the conceptual basis for thiol switching in mitochondria and discuss to what extent insights gained from in vitro studies may be valid in vivo, considering thermodynamic, kinetic and structural constraints. We compare functional proteomic approaches that have been used to assess mitochondrial protein thiol switches, including thioredoxin trapping, redox difference gel electrophoresis (redoxDIGE), isotope-coded affinity tag (OxICAT) and iodoacetyl tandem mass tag (iodoTMT) labelling strategies. We discuss conditions that may favour active thiol switching in mitochondrial proteomes in vivo, and appraise recent advances in dissecting their impact using combinations of in vivo redox sensing and quantitative redox proteomics. Finally we focus on four central facets of mitochondrial biology, aging, carbon metabolism, energy coupling and electron transport, exemplifying the current emergence of a mechanistic understanding of mitochondrial regulation by thiol switching in living plants and animals. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. and Mitochondria Research Society. All rights reserved.

High-Sequence Diversity and Rapid Virus Turnover Contribute to Higher Rates of Coreceptor Switching in Treatment-Experienced Subjects with HIV-1 Viremia.

PubMed

Nedellec, Rebecca; Herbeck, Joshua T; Hunt, Peter W; Deeks, Steven G; Mullins, James I; Anton, Elizabeth D; Reeves, Jacqueline D; Mosier, Donald E

2017-03-01

Coreceptor switching from CCR5 to CXCR4 is common during chronic HIV-1 infection, but is even more common in individuals who have failed antiretroviral therapy (ART). Prior studies have suggested rapid mutation and/or recombination of HIV-1 envelope (env) genes during coreceptor switching. We compared the functional and genotypic changes in env of viruses from viremic subjects who had failed ART just before and after coreceptor switching and compared those to viruses from matched subjects without coreceptor switching. Analysis of multiple unique functional env clones from each subject revealed extensive diversity at both sample time points and rapid diversification of sequences during the 4-month interval in viruses from both 9 subjects with coreceptor switching and 15 control subjects. Only two subjects had envs with evidence of recombination. Three findings distinguished env clones from subjects with coreceptor switching from controls: (1) lower entry efficiency via CCR5; (2) longer V1/V2 regions; and (3), lower nadir CD4 T cell counts during prior years of infection. Most of these subjects harbored virus with lower replicative capacity associated with protease (PR) and/or reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance mutations, and the extensive diversification tended to lead either to improved entry efficiency via CCR5 or the gain of entry function via CXCR4. These results suggest that R5X4 or X4 variants emerge from a diverse, low-fitness landscape shaped by chronic infection, multiple ART resistance mutations, the availability of target cells, and reduced entry efficiency via CCR5.

Conception, fabrication and characterization of a silicon based MEMS inertial switch with a threshold value of 5 g

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Fengtian; Wang, Chao; Yuan, Mingquan; Tang, Bin; Xiong, Zhuang

2017-12-01

Most of the MEMS inertial switches developed in recent years are intended for shock and impact sensing with a threshold value above 50 g. In order to follow the requirement of detecting linear acceleration signal at low-g level, a silicon based MEMS inertial switch with a threshold value of 5 g was designed, fabricated and characterized. The switch consisted of a large proof mass, supported by circular spiral springs. An analytical model of the structure stiffness of the proposed switch was derived and verified by finite-element simulation. The structure fabrication was based on a customized double-buried layer silicon-on-insulator wafer and encapsulated by glass wafers. The centrifugal experiment and nanoindentation experiment were performed to measure the threshold value as well as the structure stiffness. The actual threshold values were measured to be 0.1-0.3 g lower than the pre-designed value of 5 g due to the dimension loss during non-contact lithography processing. Concerning the reliability assessment, a series of environmental experiments were conducted and the switches remained operational without excessive errors. However, both the random vibration and the shock tests indicate that the metal particles generated during collision of contact parts might affect the contact reliability and long-time stability. According to the conclusion reached in this report, an attentive study on switch contact behavior should be included in future research.

Numerical investigation of an all-optical switch in a graded nonlinear plasmonic grating.

PubMed

Wang, Guoxi; Lu, Hua; Liu, Xueming; Gong, Yongkang

2012-11-09

We have proposed and numerically investigated an all-optical switch based on a metal-insulator-metal waveguide with graded nonlinear plasmonic gratings. The influences of grating depth and refractive index of a Kerr nonlinear medium on the transmission of the switch are exactly analyzed by utilizing transmission line theory. The finite-difference time-domain simulation results show that the highly compact structure possesses excellent switch function by tuning the incident electric field intensity. In addition, the simulation results show that this all-optical switch has an ultrawide operating frequency regime and femtosecond-scale response time (~130 fs). Such a switch can find potential applications for all-optical signal processing and optical communication.

All-optical switching of magnetoresistive devices using telecom-band femtosecond laser

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

He, Li; Chen, Jun-Yang; Wang, Jian-Ping, E-mail: jpwang@umn.edu, E-mail: moli@umn.edu

Ultrafast all-optical switching of the magnetization of various magnetic systems is an intriguing phenomenon that can have tremendous impact on information storage and processing. Here, we demonstrate all-optical switching of GdFeCo alloy films using a telecom-band femtosecond fiber laser. We further fabricate Hall cross devices and electrically readout all-optical switching by measuring anomalous Hall voltage changes. The use of a telecom laser and the demonstrated all-optical switching of magnetoresistive devices represent the first step toward integration of opto-magnetic devices with mainstream photonic devices to enable novel optical and spintronic functionalities.

Note: Cryogenic heat switch with stepper motor actuator

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Melcher, B. S., E-mail: bsmelche@syr.edu; Timbie, P. T., E-mail: pttimbie@wisc.edu

2015-12-15

A mechanical cryogenic heat switch has been developed using a commercially available stepper motor and control electronics. The motor requires 4 leads, each carrying a maximum, pulsed current of 0.5 A. With slight modifications of the stepper motor, the switch functions reliably in vacuum at temperatures between 300 K and 4 K. The switch generates a clamping force of 262 N at room temperature. At 4 K it achieves an “on state” thermal conductance of 5.04 mW/K and no conductance in the “off state.” The switch is optimized for cycling an adiabatic demagnetization refrigerator.

Electric-field-induced magnetic domain writing in a Co wire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanaka, Yuki; Hirai, Takamasa; Koyama, Tomohiro; Chiba, Daichi

2018-05-01

We have demonstrated that the local magnetization in a Co microwire can be switched by an application of a gate voltage without using any external magnetic fields. The electric-field-induced reversible ferromagnetic phase transition was used to realize this. An internal stray field from a ferromagnetic gate electrode assisted the local domain reversal in the Co wire. This new concept of electrical domain switching may be useful for dramatically reducing the power consumption of writing information in a magnetic racetrack memory, in which a shift of a magnetic domain by electric current is utilized.

The 30/20 GHz flight experiment system, phase 2. Volume 1: Executive summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bronstein, L.; Kawamoto, Y.; Ribarich, J. J.; Scope, J. R.; Forman, B. J.; Bergman, S. G.; Reisenfeld, S.

1981-01-01

Summary information on the final communication system design, communication payload, space vehicle, and development plan for the 30/20 GHz flight experiment will be installed on the LEASAT spacecraft which will be placed into orbit from the space shuttle cargo bay. The communication concept has two parts: a truck service and a customer premise service (CPS). The trucking system serves four spot beams which are interconnected in a satellite switched time division multiple access mode by an IF switch matrix. The CPS covers two large areas of the eastern United States with a pair of scanning beams.

Writing and deleting single magnetic skyrmions.

PubMed

Romming, Niklas; Hanneken, Christian; Menzel, Matthias; Bickel, Jessica E; Wolter, Boris; von Bergmann, Kirsten; Kubetzka, André; Wiesendanger, Roland

2013-08-09

Topologically nontrivial spin textures have recently been investigated for spintronic applications. Here, we report on an ultrathin magnetic film in which individual skyrmions can be written and deleted in a controlled fashion with local spin-polarized currents from a scanning tunneling microscope. An external magnetic field is used to tune the energy landscape, and the temperature is adjusted to prevent thermally activated switching between topologically distinct states. Switching rate and direction can then be controlled by the parameters used for current injection. The creation and annihilation of individual magnetic skyrmions demonstrates the potential for topological charge in future information-storage concepts.

Size-sensitive sorting of microparticles through control of flow geometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Cheng; Jalikop, Shreyas V.; Hilgenfeldt, Sascha

2011-07-01

We demonstrate a general concept of flow manipulation in microfluidic environments, based on controlling the shape and position of flow domains in order to force switching and sorting of microparticles without moving parts or changes in design geometry. Using microbubble acoustic streaming, we show that regulation of the relative strength of streaming and a superimposed Poiseuille flow allows for size-selective trapping and releasing of particles, with particle size sensitivity much greater than what is imposed by the length scales of microfabrication. A simple criterion allows for quantitative tuning of microfluidic devices for switching and sorting of particles of desired size.

Spin-orbit torque magnetization switching of a three-terminal perpendicular magnetic tunnel junction

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cubukcu, Murat; Boulle, Olivier; Drouard, Marc

2014-01-27

We report on the current-induced magnetization switching of a three-terminal perpendicular magnetic tunnel junction by spin-orbit torque and its read-out using the tunnelling magnetoresistance (TMR) effect. The device is composed of a perpendicular Ta/FeCoB/MgO/FeCoB stack on top of a Ta current line. The magnetization of the bottom FeCoB layer can be switched reproducibly by the injection of current pulses with density 5 × 10{sup 11} A/m{sup 2} in the Ta layer in the presence of an in-plane bias magnetic field, leading to the full-scale change of the TMR signal. Our work demonstrates the proof of concept of a perpendicular spin-orbit torque magnetic memorymore » cell.« less

Resistive switching behaviors of Au/pentacene/Si-nanowire arrays/heavily doped n-type Si devices for memory applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsao, Hou-Yen; Lin, Yow-Jon

2014-02-01

The fabrication of memory devices based on the Au/pentacene/heavily doped n-type Si (n+-Si), Au/pentacene/Si nanowires (SiNWs)/n+-Si, and Au/pentacene/H2O2-treated SiNWs/n+-Si structures and their resistive switching characteristics were reported. A pentacene memory structure using SiNW arrays as charge storage nodes was demonstrated. The Au/pentacene/SiNWs/n+-Si devices show hysteresis behavior. H2O2 treatment may lead to the hysteresis degradation. However, no hysteresis-type current-voltage characteristics were observed for Au/pentacene/n+-Si devices, indicating that the resistive switching characteristic is sensitive to SiNWs and the charge trapping effect originates from SiNWs. The concept of nanowires within the organic layer opens a promising direction for organic memory devices.

Musical Training, Bilingualism, and Executive Function: A Closer Look at Task Switching and Dual-Task Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moradzadeh, Linda; Blumenthal, Galit; Wiseheart, Melody

2015-01-01

This study investigated whether musical training and bilingualism are associated with enhancements in specific components of executive function, namely, task switching and dual-task performance. Participants (n = 153) belonging to one of four groups (monolingual musician, bilingual musician, bilingual non-musician, or monolingual non-musician)…

Learning Disabled Adolescents' Use of Pragmatic Functions and Code-Switching.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Biller, Maysoon F.

The study examined whether a difference existed between 10 learning disabled (LD) and 10 normally achieving (NA) high school students in terms of comprehension and production or use of pragmatic skills. The skills examined were pragmatic function (i.e., an utterance spoken in context with specific intent), and code-switching (i.e., modification of…

Aircraft/Stores Compatibility Symposium Proceedings, Held at Arlington, Virginia on 2-4 September 1975. Volume 2

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-01-01

initialization. The switching section must switch high bandwidth analog signrtls (i.e., video ) and route certain hardwired functions. These functions are...tenwfltlon of the tfeCxiCI,& and w*c interface rfqmuied fit. mate the Pedo -Recruit with the F,4J aka 770 b. Analysis and wind tunnel verification of

Examining the Functional Category in Chinese-English Code-Switching: Evidence from the Eye-Movements

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Li, Rui; Zhang, Zhiyi; Ni, Chuanbin; Xiao, Wei; Wei, Junyan; Dai, Haoyun

2018-01-01

To investigate the grammatical constraints of code-switching (CS hereafter) under the disputes of "the constraint-based account" versus "the constraint-free account," the effects of functional category on CS have long been investigated in the existing studies. Thus, the present study, by asking 47 participants to take part in…

Switching State-Feedback LPV Control with Uncertain Scheduling Parameters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

He, Tianyi; Al-Jiboory, Ali Khudhair; Swei, Sean Shan-Min; Zhu, Guoming G.

2017-01-01

This paper presents a new method to design Robust Switching State-Feedback Gain-Scheduling (RSSFGS) controllers for Linear Parameter Varying (LPV) systems with uncertain scheduling parameters. The domain of scheduling parameters are divided into several overlapped subregions to undergo hysteresis switching among a family of simultaneously designed LPV controllers over the corresponding subregion with the guaranteed H-infinity performance. The synthesis conditions are given in terms of Parameterized Linear Matrix Inequalities that guarantee both stability and performance at each subregion and associated switching surfaces. The switching stability is ensured by descent parameter-dependent Lyapunov function on switching surfaces. By solving the optimization problem, RSSFGS controller can be obtained for each subregion. A numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach over the non-switching controllers.

Switching behaviour of individual Ag-TCNQ nanowires: an in situ transmission electron microscopy study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ran, Ke; Rösner, Benedikt; Butz, Benjamin; Fink, Rainer H.; Spiecker, Erdmann

2016-10-01

The organic semiconductor silver-tetracyanoquinodimethane (Ag-TCNQ) exhibits electrical switching and memory characteristics. Employing a scanning tunnelling microscopy setup inside a transmission electron microscope, the switching behaviour of individual Ag-TCNQ nanowires (NWs) is investigated in detail. For a large number of NWs, the switching between a high (OFF) and a low (ON) resistance state was successfully stimulated by negative bias sweeps. Fitting the experimental I-V curves with a Schottky emission function makes the switching features prominent and thus enables a direct evaluation of the switching process. A memory cycle including writing, reading and erasing features is demonstrated at an individual NW. Moreover, electronic failure mechanisms due to Joule heating are discussed. These findings have a significant impact on our understanding of the switching behaviour of Ag-TCNQ.

Highly integrated 3×3 silicon thermo-optical switch using a single combined phase shifter for optical interconnects.

PubMed

Wang, Wanjun; Zhou, Haifeng; Yang, Jianyi; Wang, Minghua; Jiang, Xiaoqing

2012-06-15

We report on an experimental 3×3 thermo-optical switch on silicon on insulator. By controlling a single combined phase shifter, light from any input waveguide can be directed to any output waveguide, showing a simple control method and highly integrated structure as compared to the conventional multiway optical switches. Furthermore, the proposed optical switch can be generalized to be a 1×N and N×N optical switch without an extra phase shifter. The switch is fabricated by complementary metal oxide semiconductor technology. By experiment, full 3×3 switching functionality is demonstrated at a wavelength of 1.55 μm, with an average cross talk of -11.1  dB and a power consumption of 97.5 mW.

Switch-On Reading: Evaluation Report and Executive Summary

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gorard, Stephen; See, Beng Huat; Siddiqui, Nadia

2014-01-01

Switch-on Reading is an intensive 10-week literacy intervention. It is delivered on a one to one basis by staff, most commonly teaching assistants, who have been trained in the approach. The purpose of Switch-on is to achieve functional literacy for as many pupils as possible, and so to close the reading achievement gap for vulnerable children…

Code Switching in English Language Teaching (ELT) Teaching Practice in Turkey: Student Teacher Practices, Beliefs and Identity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bilgin, Sezen Seymen

2016-01-01

Code switching involves the interplay of two languages and as well as serving linguistic functions, it has social and psychological implications. In the context of English language teaching, these psychological implications reveal themselves as teachers' thought processes. While the nature of code switching in language classrooms has been widely…

English-Thai Code-Switching of Teachers in ESP Classes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Promnath, Korawan; Tayjasanant, Chamaipak

2016-01-01

The term code-switching (CS) that occurs in everyday situations, or naturalistic code-switching, has been a controversial strategy regarding whether it benefits or impedes language learning. The aim of this study was to investigate CS in conversations between teachers and students of ESP classes in order to explore the types and functions of CS…

An efficient platform for genetic selection and screening of gene switches in Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

Muranaka, Norihito; Sharma, Vandana; Nomura, Yoko; Yokobayashi, Yohei

2009-01-01

Engineered gene switches and circuits that can sense various biochemical and physical signals, perform computation, and produce predictable outputs are expected to greatly advance our ability to program complex cellular behaviors. However, rational design of gene switches and circuits that function in living cells is challenging due to the complex intracellular milieu. Consequently, most successful designs of gene switches and circuits have relied, to some extent, on high-throughput screening and/or selection from combinatorial libraries of gene switch and circuit variants. In this study, we describe a generic and efficient platform for selection and screening of gene switches and circuits in Escherichia coli from large libraries. The single-gene dual selection marker tetA was translationally fused to green fluorescent protein (gfpuv) via a flexible peptide linker and used as a dual selection and screening marker for laboratory evolution of gene switches. Single-cycle (sequential positive and negative selections) enrichment efficiencies of >7000 were observed in mock selections of model libraries containing functional riboswitches in liquid culture. The technique was applied to optimize various parameters affecting the selection outcome, and to isolate novel thiamine pyrophosphate riboswitches from a complex library. Artificial riboswitches with excellent characteristics were isolated that exhibit up to 58-fold activation as measured by fluorescent reporter gene assay. PMID:19190095

On the functional relevance of frontal cortex for passive and voluntarily controlled bistable vision.

PubMed

de Graaf, Tom A; de Jong, Maartje C; Goebel, Rainer; van Ee, Raymond; Sack, Alexander T

2011-10-01

In bistable vision, one constant ambiguous stimulus leads to 2 alternating conscious percepts. This perceptual switching occurs spontaneously but can also be influenced through voluntary control. Neuroimaging studies have reported that frontal regions are activated during spontaneous perceptual switches, leading some researchers to suggest that frontal regions causally induce perceptual switches. But the opposite also seems possible: frontal activations may themselves be caused by spontaneous switches. Classically implicated in attentional processes, these same regions are also candidates for the origins of voluntary control over bistable vision. Here too, it remains unknown whether frontal cortex is actually functionally relevant. It is even possible that spontaneous perceptual switches and voluntarily induced switches are mediated by the same top-down mechanisms. To directly address these issues, we here induced "virtual lesions," with transcranial magnetic stimulation, in frontal, parietal, and 2 lower level visual cortices using an established ambiguous structure-from-motion stimulus. We found that dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was causally relevant for voluntary control over perceptual switches. In contrast, we failed to find any evidence for an active role of frontal cortex in passive bistable vision. Thus, it seems the same pathway used for willed top-down modulation of bistable vision is not used during passive bistable viewing.

Single-Trial Analysis of Inter-Beat Interval Perturbations Accompanying Single-Switch Scanning: Case Series of Three Children With Severe Spastic Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy.

PubMed

Leung, Brian; Chau, Tom

2016-02-01

Single-switch access in conjunction with scanning remains a fundamental solution in restoring communication for many children with profound physical disabilities. However, untimely switch inaction and unintentional switch activations can lead to user frustration and impede functional communication. A previous preliminary study, in the context of a case series with three single-switch users, reported that correct, accidental and missed switch activations could elicit cardiac deceleration and increased phasic skin conductance on average, while deliberate switch non-use was associated with autonomic nonresponse. The present study investigated the possibility of using blood volume pulse recordings from the same three pediatric single-switch users to track the aforementioned switch events on a single-trial basis. Peaks of the line length time series derived from the empirical mode decomposition of the inter-beat interval time series matched, on average, a high percentage (above 80%) of single-switch events, while unmatched peaks coincided moderately (below 37%) with idle time during scanning. These results encourage further study of autonomic measures as complementary information channels to enhance single-switch access.

Multilateral Telecoordinated Control of Multiple Robots With Uncertain Kinematics.

PubMed

Zhai, Di-Hua; Xia, Yuanqing

2017-06-06

This paper addresses the telecoordinated control of multiple robots in the simultaneous presence of asymmetric time-varying delays, nonpassive external forces, and uncertain kinematics/dynamics. To achieve the control objective, a neuroadaptive controller with utilizing prescribed performance control and switching control technique is developed, where the basic idea is to employ the concept of motion synchronization in each pair of master-slave robots and among all slave robots. By using the multiple Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals method, the state-independent input-to-output practical stability of the closed-loop system is established. Compared with the previous approaches, the new design is straightforward and easier to implement and is applicable to a wider area. Simulation results on three pairs of three degrees-of-freedom robots confirm the theoretical findings.

Musical training, bilingualism, and executive function: a closer look at task switching and dual-task performance.

PubMed

Moradzadeh, Linda; Blumenthal, Galit; Wiseheart, Melody

2015-07-01

This study investigated whether musical training and bilingualism are associated with enhancements in specific components of executive function, namely, task switching and dual-task performance. Participants (n = 153) belonging to one of four groups (monolingual musician, bilingual musician, bilingual non-musician, or monolingual non-musician) were matched on age and socioeconomic status and administered task switching and dual-task paradigms. Results demonstrated reduced global and local switch costs in musicians compared with non-musicians, suggesting that musical training can contribute to increased efficiency in the ability to shift flexibly between mental sets. On dual-task performance, musicians also outperformed non-musicians. There was neither a cognitive advantage for bilinguals relative to monolinguals, nor an interaction between music and language to suggest additive effects of both types of experience. These findings demonstrate that long-term musical training is associated with improvements in task switching and dual-task performance. Copyright © 2014 Cognitive Science Society, Inc.

Adaptive Neural Networks Prescribed Performance Control Design for Switched Interconnected Uncertain Nonlinear Systems.

PubMed

Li, Yongming; Tong, Shaocheng

2017-06-28

In this paper, an adaptive neural networks (NNs)-based decentralized control scheme with the prescribed performance is proposed for uncertain switched nonstrict-feedback interconnected nonlinear systems. It is assumed that nonlinear interconnected terms and nonlinear functions of the concerned systems are unknown, and also the switching signals are unknown and arbitrary. A linear state estimator is constructed to solve the problem of unmeasured states. The NNs are employed to approximate unknown interconnected terms and nonlinear functions. A new output feedback decentralized control scheme is developed by using the adaptive backstepping design technique. The control design problem of nonlinear interconnected switched systems with unknown switching signals can be solved by the proposed scheme, and only a tuning parameter is needed for each subsystem. The proposed scheme can ensure that all variables of the control systems are semi-globally uniformly ultimately bounded and the tracking errors converge to a small residual set with the prescribed performance bound. The effectiveness of the proposed control approach is verified by some simulation results.

Plastic Transition to Switch Nonlinear Optical Properties Showing the Record High Contrast in a Single-Component Molecular Crystal.

PubMed

Sun, Zhihua; Chen, Tianliang; Liu, Xitao; Hong, Maochun; Luo, Junhua

2015-12-23

To switch bulk nonlinear optical (NLO) effects represents an exciting new branch of NLO material science, whereas it remains a great challenge to achieve high contrast for "on/off" of quadratic NLO effects in crystalline materials. Here, we report the supereminent NLO-switching behaviors of a single-component plastic crystal, 2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol (1), which shows a record high contrast of at least ∼150, exceeding all the known crystalline switches. Such a breakthrough is clearly elucidated from the slowing down of highly isotropic molecular motions during plastic-to-rigid transition. The deep understanding of its intrinsic plasticity and superior NLO property allows the construction of a feasible switching mechanism. As a unique class of substances with short-range disorder embedded in long-range ordered crystalline lattice, plastic crystals enable response to external stimuli and fulfill specific photoelectric functions, which open a newly conceptual avenue for the designing of new functional materials.

Structural Analysis of Single-Point Mutations Given an RNA Sequence: A Case Study with RNAMute

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Churkin, Alexander; Barash, Danny

2006-12-01

We introduce here for the first time the RNAMute package, a pattern-recognition-based utility to perform mutational analysis and detect vulnerable spots within an RNA sequence that affect structure. Mutations in these spots may lead to a structural change that directly relates to a change in functionality. Previously, the concept was tried on RNA genetic control elements called "riboswitches" and other known RNA switches, without an organized utility that analyzes all single-point mutations and can be further expanded. The RNAMute package allows a comprehensive categorization, given an RNA sequence that has functional relevance, by exploring the patterns of all single-point mutants. For illustration, we apply the RNAMute package on an RNA transcript for which individual point mutations were shown experimentally to inactivate spectinomycin resistance in Escherichia coli. Functional analysis of mutations on this case study was performed experimentally by creating a library of point mutations using PCR and screening to locate those mutations. With the availability of RNAMute, preanalysis can be performed computationally before conducting an experiment.

Dynamic Janus Metasurfaces in the Visible Spectral Region.

PubMed

Yu, Ping; Li, Jianxiong; Zhang, Shuang; Jin, Zhongwei; Schütz, Gisela; Qiu, Cheng-Wei; Hirscher, Michael; Liu, Na

2018-06-27

Janus monolayers have long been captivated as a popular notion for breaking in-plane and out-of-plane structural symmetry. Originated from chemistry and materials science, the concept of Janus functions have been recently extended to ultrathin metasurfaces by arranging meta-atoms asymmetrically with respect to the propagation or polarization direction of the incident light. However, such metasurfaces are intrinsically static and the information they carry can be straightforwardly decrypted by scanning the incident light directions and polarization states once the devices are fabricated. In this Letter, we present a dynamic Janus metasurface scheme in the visible spectral region. In each super unit cell, three plasmonic pixels are categorized into two sets. One set contains a magnesium nanorod and a gold nanorod that are orthogonally oriented with respect to each other, working as counter pixels. The other set only contains a magnesium nanorod. The effective pixels on the Janus metasurface can be reversibly regulated by hydrogenation/dehydrogenation of the magnesium nanorods. Such dynamic controllability at visible frequencies allows for flat optical elements with novel functionalities including beam steering, bifocal lensing, holographic encryption, and dual optical function switching.

A new DG nanoscale TFET based on MOSFETs by using source gate electrode: 2D simulation and an analytical potential model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramezani, Zeinab; Orouji, Ali A.

2017-08-01

This paper suggests and investigates a double-gate (DG) MOSFET, which emulates tunnel field effect transistors (M-TFET). We have combined this novel concept into a double-gate MOSFET, which behaves as a tunneling field effect transistor by work function engineering. In the proposed structure, in addition to the main gate, we utilize another gate over the source region with zero applied voltage and a proper work function to convert the source region from N+ to P+. We check the impact obtained by varying the source gate work function and source doping on the device parameters. The simulation results of the M-TFET indicate that it is a suitable case for a switching performance. Also, we present a two-dimensional analytic potential model of the proposed structure by solving the Poisson's equation in x and y directions and by derivatives from the potential profile; thus, the electric field is achieved. To validate our present model, we use the SILVACO ATLAS device simulator. The analytical results have been compared with it.

Harvesting Vibrational Energy Using Material Work Functions

PubMed Central

Varpula, Aapo; Laakso, Sampo J.; Havia, Tahvo; Kyynäräinen, Jukka; Prunnila, Mika

2014-01-01

Vibration energy harvesters scavenge energy from mechanical vibrations to energise low power electronic devices. In this work, we report on vibration energy harvesting scheme based on the charging phenomenon occurring naturally between two bodies with different work functions. Such work function energy harvester (WFEH) is similar to electrostatic energy harvester with the fundamental distinction that neither external power supplies nor electrets are needed. A theoretical model and description of different operation modes of WFEHs are presented. The WFEH concept is tested with macroscopic experiments, which agree well with the model. The feasibility of miniaturizing WFEHs is shown by simulating a realistic MEMS device. The WFEH can be operated as a charge pump that pushes charge and energy into an energy storage element. We show that such an operation mode is highly desirable for applications and that it can be realised with either a charge shuttle or with switches. The WFEH is shown to give equal or better output power in comparison to traditional electrostatic harvesters. Our findings indicate that WFEH has great potential in energy harvesting applications. PMID:25348004

Remote Optical Switch for Localized and Selective Control of Gene Interference

PubMed Central

Lee, Somin Eunice; Liu, Gang Logan; Kim, Franklin; Lee, Luke P.

2009-01-01

Near infrared-absorbing gold nanoplasmonic particles (GNPs) are used as optical switches of gene interference and are remotely controlled using light. We have tuned optical switches to a wavelength where cellular photodamage is minimized. Optical switches are functionalized with double-stranded oligonucleotides. At desired times and at specific intracellular locations, remote optical excitation is used to liberate gene-interfering oligonucleotides. We demonstrate a novel gene-interfering technique offering spatial and temporal control, which is otherwise impossible using conventional gene-interfering techniques. PMID:19128006

Molecular Rotors as Switches

PubMed Central

Xue, Mei; Wang, Kang L.

2012-01-01

The use of a functional molecular unit acting as a state variable provides an attractive alternative for the next generations of nanoscale electronics. It may help overcome the limits of conventional MOSFETd due to their potential scalability, low-cost, low variability, and highly integratable characteristics as well as the capability to exploit bottom-up self-assembly processes. This bottom-up construction and the operation of nanoscale machines/devices, in which the molecular motion can be controlled to perform functions, have been studied for their functionalities. Being triggered by external stimuli such as light, electricity or chemical reagents, these devices have shown various functions including those of diodes, rectifiers, memories, resonant tunnel junctions and single settable molecular switches that can be electronically configured for logic gates. Molecule-specific electronic switching has also been reported for several of these device structures, including nanopores containing oligo(phenylene ethynylene) monolayers, and planar junctions incorporating rotaxane and catenane monolayers for the construction and operation of complex molecular machines. A specific electrically driven surface mounted molecular rotor is described in detail in this review. The rotor is comprised of a monolayer of redox-active ligated copper compounds sandwiched between a gold electrode and a highly-doped P+ Si. This electrically driven sandwich-type monolayer molecular rotor device showed an on/off ratio of approximately 104, a read window of about 2.5 V, and a retention time of greater than 104 s. The rotation speed of this type of molecular rotor has been reported to be in the picosecond timescale, which provides a potential of high switching speed applications. Current-voltage spectroscopy (I-V) revealed a temperature-dependent negative differential resistance (NDR) associated with the device. The analysis of the device I–V characteristics suggests the source of the observed switching effects to be the result of the redox-induced ligand rotation around the copper metal center and this attribution of switching is consistent with the observed temperature dependence of the switching behavior as well as the proposed energy diagram of the device. The observed resistance switching shows the potential for future non-volatile memories and logic devices applications. This review will discuss the progress and provide a perspective of molecular motion for nanoelectronics and other applications.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging examination of two modular architectures for switching multiple internal models.

PubMed

Imamizu, Hiroshi; Kuroda, Tomoe; Yoshioka, Toshinori; Kawato, Mitsuo

2004-02-04

An internal model is a neural mechanism that can mimic the input-output properties of a controlled object such as a tool. Recent research interests have moved on to how multiple internal models are learned and switched under a given context of behavior. Two representative computational models for task switching propose distinct neural mechanisms, thus predicting different brain activity patterns in the switching of internal models. In one model, called the mixture-of-experts architecture, switching is commanded by a single executive called a "gating network," which is different from the internal models. In the other model, called the MOSAIC (MOdular Selection And Identification for Control), the internal models themselves play crucial roles in switching. Consequently, the mixture-of-experts model predicts that neural activities related to switching and internal models can be temporally and spatially segregated, whereas the MOSAIC model predicts that they are closely intermingled. Here, we directly examined the two predictions by analyzing functional magnetic resonance imaging activities during the switching of one common tool (an ordinary computer mouse) and two novel tools: a rotated mouse, the cursor of which appears in a rotated position, and a velocity mouse, the cursor velocity of which is proportional to the mouse position. The switching and internal model activities temporally and spatially overlapped each other in the cerebellum and in the parietal cortex, whereas the overlap was very small in the frontal cortex. These results suggest that switching mechanisms in the frontal cortex can be explained by the mixture-of-experts architecture, whereas those in the cerebellum and the parietal cortex are explained by the MOSAIC model.

Clustering and Flow Conservation Monitoring Tool for Software Defined Networks

PubMed Central

Puente Fernández, Jesús Antonio

2018-01-01

Prediction systems present some challenges on two fronts: the relation between video quality and observed session features and on the other hand, dynamics changes on the video quality. Software Defined Networks (SDN) is a new concept of network architecture that provides the separation of control plane (controller) and data plane (switches) in network devices. Due to the existence of the southbound interface, it is possible to deploy monitoring tools to obtain the network status and retrieve a statistics collection. Therefore, achieving the most accurate statistics depends on a strategy of monitoring and information requests of network devices. In this paper, we propose an enhanced algorithm for requesting statistics to measure the traffic flow in SDN networks. Such an algorithm is based on grouping network switches in clusters focusing on their number of ports to apply different monitoring techniques. Such grouping occurs by avoiding monitoring queries in network switches with common characteristics and then, by omitting redundant information. In this way, the present proposal decreases the number of monitoring queries to switches, improving the network traffic and preventing the switching overload. We have tested our optimization in a video streaming simulation using different types of videos. The experiments and comparison with traditional monitoring techniques demonstrate the feasibility of our proposal maintaining similar values decreasing the number of queries to the switches. PMID:29614049

SOX1 links the function of neural patterning and Notch signalling in the ventral spinal cord during the neuron-glial fate switch

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Genethliou, Nicholas; Panayiotou, Elena; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia

2009-12-25

During neural development the transition from neurogenesis to gliogenesis, known as the neuron-glial ({Nu}/G) fate switch, requires the coordinated function of patterning factors, pro-glial factors and Notch signalling. How this process is coordinated in the embryonic spinal cord is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that during the N/G fate switch in the ventral spinal cord (vSC) SOX1 links the function of neural patterning and Notch signalling. We show that, SOX1 expression in the vSC is regulated by PAX6, NKX2.2 and Notch signalling in a domain-specific manner. We further show that SOX1 regulates the expression of Hes1 and that loss ofmore » Sox1 leads to enhanced production of oligodendrocyte precursors from the pMN. Finally, we show that Notch signalling functions upstream of SOX1 during this fate switch and is independently required for the acquisition of the glial fate perse by regulating Nuclear Factor I A expression in a PAX6/SOX1/HES1/HES5-independent manner. These data integrate functional roles of neural patterning factors, Notch signalling and SOX1 during gliogenesis.« less

Engineering a trifunctional proline utilization A chimaera by fusing a DNA-binding domain to a bifunctional PutA.

PubMed

Arentson, Benjamin W; Hayes, Erin L; Zhu, Weidong; Singh, Harkewal; Tanner, John J; Becker, Donald F

2016-12-01

Proline utilization A (PutA) is a bifunctional flavoenzyme with proline dehydrogenase (PRODH) and Δ 1 -pyrroline-5-carboxylate (P5C) dehydrogenase (P5CDH) domains that catalyses the two-step oxidation of proline to glutamate. Trifunctional PutAs also have an N-terminal ribbon-helix-helix (RHH) DNA-binding domain and moonlight as autogenous transcriptional repressors of the put regulon. A unique property of trifunctional PutA is the ability to switch functions from DNA-bound repressor to membrane-associated enzyme in response to cellular nutritional needs and proline availability. In the present study, we attempt to construct a trifunctional PutA by fusing the RHH domain of Escherichia coli PutA (EcRHH) to the bifunctional Rhodobacter capsulatus PutA (RcPutA) in order to explore the modular design of functional switching in trifunctional PutAs. The EcRHH-RcPutA chimaera retains the catalytic properties of RcPutA while acquiring the oligomeric state, quaternary structure and DNA-binding properties of EcPutA. Furthermore, the EcRHH-RcPutA chimaera exhibits proline-induced lipid association, which is a fundamental characteristic of functional switching. Unexpectedly, RcPutA lipid binding is also activated by proline, which shows for the first time that bifunctional PutAs exhibit a limited form of functional switching. Altogether, these results suggest that the C-terminal domain (CTD), which is conserved by trifunctional PutAs and certain bifunctional PutAs, is essential for functional switching in trifunctional PutAs. © 2016 The Author(s).

Engineering a trifunctional proline utilization A chimaera by fusing a DNA-binding domain to a bifunctional PutA

PubMed Central

Arentson, Benjamin W.; Hayes, Erin L.; Zhu, Weidong; Singh, Harkewal; Tanner, John J.; Becker, Donald F.

2016-01-01

Proline utilization A (PutA) is a bifunctional flavoenzyme with proline dehydrogenase (PRODH) and Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate (P5C) dehydrogenase (P5CDH) domains that catalyses the two-step oxidation of proline to glutamate. Trifunctional PutAs also have an N-terminal ribbon–helix–helix (RHH) DNA-binding domain and moonlight as autogenous transcriptional repressors of the put regulon. A unique property of trifunctional PutA is the ability to switch functions from DNA-bound repressor to membrane-associated enzyme in response to cellular nutritional needs and proline availability. In the present study, we attempt to construct a trifunctional PutA by fusing the RHH domain of Escherichia coli PutA (EcRHH) to the bifunctional Rhodobacter capsulatus PutA (RcPutA) in order to explore the modular design of functional switching in trifunctional PutAs. The EcRHH–RcPutA chimaera retains the catalytic properties of RcPutA while acquiring the oligomeric state, quaternary structure and DNA-binding properties of EcPutA. Furthermore, the EcRHH–RcPutA chimaera exhibits proline-induced lipid association, which is a fundamental characteristic of functional switching. Unexpectedly, RcPutA lipid binding is also activated by proline, which shows for the first time that bifunctional PutAs exhibit a limited form of functional switching. Altogether, these results suggest that the C-terminal domain (CTD), which is conserved by trifunctional PutAs and certain bifunctional PutAs, is essential for functional switching in trifunctional PutAs. PMID:27742866

"Thanks, Shokran, Gracias": Translingual Practices in a Facebook Group

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kulavuz-Onal, Derya; Vásquez, Camilla

2018-01-01

The affordances associated with networked multilingualism (Androutsopoulos, 2015) have led social media scholars to replace traditional notions of code-switching with broader concepts such as translingual practices. In an attempt to further our understanding of online multilingual linguistic practices in the context of educational…

Special Technology Area Review on Micro-Opto-Electro-Mechanical-Systems (MOEMS)

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-12-01

Optical Interference in Night Vision Systems "* DMD Assisted Intelligent Manufacturing of ................................................... SRI...CONCEPT ......................................... p. 8 FIGURE 3(a): DMD LIGHT SWITCHES...p. 9 FIGURE 3(b): SEM PHOTOMICROGRAPHS OF DMD CHIPS ........................................ p. 9 FIGURE 4: MULTI-USER MEMS PROJECTS (MUMPS

Translanguaging: Developing Its Conceptualisation and Contextualisation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lewis, Gwyn; Jones, Bryn; Baker, Colin

2012-01-01

Following from Lewis, Jones, and Baker (this issue), this article analyses the relationship between the new concept of "translanguaging" particularly in the classroom context and more historic terms such as code-switching and translation, indicating differences in (socio)linguistic and ideological understandings as well as in classroom…

Optical resonators for true-time-delay beam steering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gesell, Leslie H.; Evanko, Stephen M.

1996-06-01

Conventional true time delay beamforming and steering devices rely on switching between various lengths of delay line. Therefore only discrete delays are possible. Proposed is a new photonics concept for true time delay beamforming which provides a finely controlled continuum of delays with switching speeds on the order of 10's of nanoseconds or faster. The architecture uses an array of waveguide cavities with different resonate frequencies to channelize the signal. Each spectral component of the signal is phase shifted by an amount proportional to the frequency of that component and the desired time delay. These phase shifted spectral components are then summed to obtain the delayed signal. This paper provides an overview of the results of a Phase I SBIR contract where this concept has been refined and analyzed. The parameters for an operational system are determined and indication of the feasibility of this approach is given. Among the issues addressed are the requirements of the resonators and the methods necessary to implement fiber optic Bragg gratings as these resonators.

Heteroclinic switching between chimeras

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bick, Christian

2018-05-01

Functional oscillator networks, such as neuronal networks in the brain, exhibit switching between metastable states involving many oscillators. We give exact results how such global dynamics can arise in paradigmatic phase oscillator networks: Higher-order network interactions give rise to metastable chimeras—localized frequency synchrony patterns—which are joined by heteroclinic connections. Moreover, we illuminate the mechanisms that underly the switching dynamics in these experimentally accessible networks.

Current-induced switching in CoGa/L10 MnGa/(CoGa)/Pt structure with different thicknesses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ranjbar, R.; Suzuki, K. Z.; Mizukami, S.

2018-06-01

In this paper, we present the results of our study into current-induced spin-orbit torque (SOT) switching in perpendicularly magnetized CoGa/MnGa/Pt trilayers with different thicknesses of MnGa and Pt. The SOT switching was observed for all films that undergo Joule heating. We also investigate SOT switching in the bottom (CoGa)/MnGa/top(CoGa/Pt) films with different top layers. Although both the bottom and top layers contribute to the SOT, the relative magnitudes of the switching current densities JC in the top and bottom layers indicate that the SOT is dominant in the top layer. The JC as a function of thickness is discussed in terms of the magnetic properties and resistivity. Experimental data suggested that the MnGa thickness dependence of JC may originate from the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy thickness product Kueff t value. On the other hand, JC as a function of the Pt thickness shows weak dependence. This may be attributed to the slight change of spin-Hall angle θSH value with different thicknesses of Pt, when we assumed that the SOT switching is primarily due to the spin-Hall effect.

Media impact switching surface during an infectious disease outbreak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Yanni; Tang, Sanyi; Wu, Jianhong

2015-01-01

There are many challenges to quantifying and evaluating the media impact on the control of emerging infectious diseases. We modeled such media impacts using a piecewise smooth function depending on both the case number and its rate of change. The proposed model was then converted into a switching system, with the switching surface determined by a functional relationship between susceptible populations and different subgroups of infectives. By parameterizing the proposed model with the 2009 A/H1N1 influenza outbreak data in the Shaanxi province of China, we observed that media impact switched off almost as the epidemic peaked. Our analysis implies that media coverage significantly delayed the epidemic's peak and decreased the severity of the outbreak. Moreover, media impacts are not always effective in lowering the disease transmission during the entire outbreak, but switch on and off in a highly nonlinear fashion with the greatest effect during the early stage of the outbreak. The finding draws the attention to the important role of informing the public about `the rate of change of case numbers' rather than `the absolute number of cases' to alter behavioral changes, through a self-adaptive media impact switching on and off, for better control of disease transmission.

A Multicontrolled Enamine Configurational Switch Undergoing Dynamic Constitutional Exchange.

PubMed

Ren, Yansong; Svensson, Per H; Ramström, Olof

2018-05-22

A multiresponsive enamine-based molecular switch is presented, in which forward/backward configurational rotation around the C=C bond could be precisely controlled by the addition of an acid/base or metal ions. Fluorescence turn-on/off effects and large Stokes shifts were observed while regulating the switching process with Cu II . The enamine functionality furthermore enabled double dynamic regimes, in which configurational switching could operate in conjunction with constitutional enamine exchange of the rotor part. This behavior was used to construct a prototypical dynamic covalent switch system through enamine exchange with primary amines. The dynamic exchange process could be readily turned on/off by regulating the switch status with pH. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

On-chip broadband silicon thermo-optic 2☓2 four-mode optical switch for optical space and local mode switching.

PubMed

Zhou, Ting; Jia, Hao; Ding, Jianfeng; Zhang, Lei; Fu, Xin; Yang, Lin

2018-04-02

We present a silicon thermo-optic 2☓2 four-mode optical switch optimized for optical space switching plus local optical mode switching. Four asymmetric directional couplers are utilized for mode multiplexing and de-multiplexing. Sixteen 2☓2 single-mode optical switches based on balanced thermally tunable Mach-Zehnder interferometers are exploited for switching function. The measured insertion losses are 8.0~12.2 dB and the optical signal-to-noise ratios are larger than 11.2 dB in the wavelength range of 1525~1565 nm. The optical links in "all-bar" and "all-cross" states exhibit less than 2.0 dB and 1.4 dB power penalties respectively below 10 -9 bit error rates for 40 Gbps data transmission.

Chemically engineered graphene-based 2D organic molecular magnet.

PubMed

Hong, Jeongmin; Bekyarova, Elena; de Heer, Walt A; Haddon, Robert C; Khizroev, Sakhrat

2013-11-26

Carbon-based magnetic materials and structures of mesoscopic dimensions may offer unique opportunities for future nanomagnetoelectronic/spintronic devices. To achieve their potential, carbon nanosystems must have controllable magnetic properties. We demonstrate that nitrophenyl functionalized graphene can act as a room-temperature 2D magnet. We report a comprehensive study of low-temperature magnetotransport, vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), and superconducting quantum interference (SQUID) measurements before and after radical functionalization. Following nitrophenyl (NP) functionalization, epitaxially grown graphene systems can become organic molecular magnets with ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic ordering that persists at temperatures above 400 K. The field-dependent, surface magnetoelectric properties were studied using scanning probe microscopy (SPM) techniques. The results indicate that the NP-functionalization orientation and degree of coverage directly affect the magnetic properties of the graphene surface. In addition, graphene-based organic magnetic nanostructures were found to demonstrate a pronounced magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE). The results were consistent across different characterization techniques and indicate room-temperature magnetic ordering along preferred graphene orientations in the NP-functionalized samples. Chemically isolated graphene nanoribbons (CINs) were observed along the preferred functionality directions. These results pave the way for future magnetoelectronic/spintronic applications based on promising concepts such as current-induced magnetization switching, magnetoelectricity, half-metallicity, and quantum tunneling of magnetization.

Loop Group Parakeet Virtual Cable Concept Demonstrator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dowsett, T.; McNeill, T. C.; Reynolds, A. B.; Blair, W. D.

2002-07-01

The Parakeet Virtual Cable (PVC) concept demonstrator uses the Ethernet Local Area Network (LAN) laid for the Battle Command Support System (BCSS) to connect the Parakeet DVT(DA) (voice terminal) to the Parakeet multiplexer. This currently requires pairs of PVC interface units to be installed for each DVT(DA) . To reduce the cost of a PVC installation, the concept of a Loop Group Parakeet Virtual Cable (LGPVC) was proposed. This device was designed to replace the up to 30 PVC boxes and the multiplexer at the multiplexer side of a PVC installation. While the demonstrator is largely complete, testing has revealed an incomplete understanding of how to emulate the proprietary handshaking occurring between the circuit switch and the multiplexer. The LGPVC concept cannot yet be demonstrated.

High-Sequence Diversity and Rapid Virus Turnover Contribute to Higher Rates of Coreceptor Switching in Treatment-Experienced Subjects with HIV-1 Viremia

PubMed Central

Nedellec, Rebecca; Herbeck, Joshua T.; Hunt, Peter W.; Deeks, Steven G.; Mullins, James I.; Anton, Elizabeth D.; Reeves, Jacqueline D.

2017-01-01

Abstract Coreceptor switching from CCR5 to CXCR4 is common during chronic HIV-1 infection, but is even more common in individuals who have failed antiretroviral therapy (ART). Prior studies have suggested rapid mutation and/or recombination of HIV-1 envelope (env) genes during coreceptor switching. We compared the functional and genotypic changes in env of viruses from viremic subjects who had failed ART just before and after coreceptor switching and compared those to viruses from matched subjects without coreceptor switching. Analysis of multiple unique functional env clones from each subject revealed extensive diversity at both sample time points and rapid diversification of sequences during the 4-month interval in viruses from both 9 subjects with coreceptor switching and 15 control subjects. Only two subjects had envs with evidence of recombination. Three findings distinguished env clones from subjects with coreceptor switching from controls: (1) lower entry efficiency via CCR5; (2) longer V1/V2 regions; and (3), lower nadir CD4 T cell counts during prior years of infection. Most of these subjects harbored virus with lower replicative capacity associated with protease (PR) and/or reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance mutations, and the extensive diversification tended to lead either to improved entry efficiency via CCR5 or the gain of entry function via CXCR4. These results suggest that R5X4 or X4 variants emerge from a diverse, low-fitness landscape shaped by chronic infection, multiple ART resistance mutations, the availability of target cells, and reduced entry efficiency via CCR5. PMID:27604829

A density functional approach to ferrogels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cremer, P.; Heinen, M.; Menzel, A. M.; Löwen, H.

2017-07-01

Ferrogels consist of magnetic colloidal particles embedded in an elastic polymer matrix. As a consequence, their structural and rheological properties are governed by a competition between magnetic particle-particle interactions and mechanical matrix elasticity. Typically, the particles are permanently fixed within the matrix, which makes them distinguishable by their positions. Over time, particle neighbors do not change due to the fixation by the matrix. Here we present a classical density functional approach for such ferrogels. We map the elastic matrix-induced interactions between neighboring colloidal particles distinguishable by their positions onto effective pairwise interactions between indistinguishable particles similar to a ‘pairwise pseudopotential’. Using Monte-Carlo computer simulations, we demonstrate for one-dimensional dipole-spring models of ferrogels that this mapping is justified. We then use the pseudopotential as an input into classical density functional theory of inhomogeneous fluids and predict the bulk elastic modulus of the ferrogel under various conditions. In addition, we propose the use of an ‘external pseudopotential’ when one switches from the viewpoint of a one-dimensional dipole-spring object to a one-dimensional chain embedded in an infinitely extended bulk matrix. Our mapping approach paves the way to describe various inhomogeneous situations of ferrogels using classical density functional concepts of inhomogeneous fluids.

Coactivation of cognitive control networks during task switching.

PubMed

Yin, Shouhang; Deák, Gedeon; Chen, Antao

2018-01-01

The ability to flexibly switch between tasks is considered an important component of cognitive control that involves frontal and parietal cortical areas. The present study was designed to characterize network dynamics across multiple brain regions during task switching. Functional magnetic resonance images (fMRI) were captured during a standard rule-switching task to identify switching-related brain regions. Multiregional psychophysiological interaction (PPI) analysis was used to examine effective connectivity between these regions. During switching trials, behavioral performance declined and activation of a generic cognitive control network increased. Concurrently, task-related connectivity increased within and between cingulo-opercular and fronto-parietal cognitive control networks. Notably, the left inferior frontal junction (IFJ) was most consistently coactivated with the 2 cognitive control networks. Furthermore, switching-dependent effective connectivity was negatively correlated with behavioral switch costs. The strength of effective connectivity between left IFJ and other regions in the networks predicted individual differences in switch costs. Task switching was supported by coactivated connections within cognitive control networks, with left IFJ potentially acting as a key hub between the fronto-parietal and cingulo-opercular networks. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Enhancing photocurrent transient spectroscopy by electromagnetic modeling.

PubMed

Diesinger, H; Panahandeh-Fard, M; Wang, Z; Baillargeat, D; Soci, C

2012-05-01

The shape and duration of photocurrent transients generated by a photoconductive switch depend on both the intrinsic response of the active material and the geometry of the transmission line structure. The present electromagnetic model decouples both shape forming contributions. In contrast to previously published work, it accounts for the particular operating mode of transient spectroscopy. The objective is to increase the time resolution by two approaches, by optimizing structural response and by deconvolving it from experimental data. The switch structure is represented by an effective transimpedance onto which the active material acts as current generator. As proof of concept, the response of a standard microstrip switch is modeled and deconvolved from experimental data acquired in GaAs, yielding a single exponential material response and hence supporting the validity of the approach. Beyond compensating for the response deterioration by the structure, switch architectures can be a priori optimized with respect to frequency response. As an example, it is shown that a microstrip gap that can be deposited on materials incompatible with standard lithography reduces pulse broadening by an order of magnitude if it is provided with transitions to coplanar access lines.

Principle and verification of novel optical virtual private networks over multiprotocol label switching/optical packet switching networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Chongfu; Wang, Zhengsuan; Jin, Wei; Qiu, Kun

2012-11-01

A novel realization method of the optical virtual private networks (OVPN) over multiprotocol label switching/optical packet switching (MPLS/OPS) networks is proposed. In this scheme, the introduction of MPLS control plane makes OVPN over OPS networks more reliable and easier; OVPN makes use of the concept of high reconfiguration of light-paths offered by MPLS, to set up secure tunnels of high bandwidth across intelligent OPS networks. Through resource management, the signal mechanism, connection control, and the architecture of the creation and maintenance of OVPN are efficiently realized. We also present an OVPN architecture with two traffic priorities, which is used to analyze the capacity, throughput, delay time of the proposed networks, and the packet loss rate performance of the OVPN over MPLS/OPS networks based on full mesh topology. The results validate the applicability of such reliable connectivity to high quality services in the OVPN over MPLS/OPS networks. Along with the results, the feasibility of the approach as the basis for the next generation networks is demonstrated and discussed.

Finite-time resilient decentralized control for interconnected impulsive switched systems with neutral delay.

PubMed

Ren, Hangli; Zong, Guangdeng; Hou, Linlin; Yang, Yi

2017-03-01

This paper is concerned with the problem of finite-time control for a class of interconnected impulsive switched systems with neutral delay in which the time-varying delay appears in both the state and the state derivative. The concepts of finite-time boundedness and finite-time stability are respectively extended to interconnected impulsive switched systems with neutral delay for the first time. By applying the average dwell time method, sufficient conditions are first derived to cope with the problem of finite-time boundedness and finite-time stability for interconnected impulsive switched systems with neutral delay. In addition, the purpose of finite-time resilient decentralized control is to construct a resilient decentralized state-feedback controller such that the closed-loop system is finite-time bounded and finite-time stable. All the conditions are formulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities to ensure finite-time boundedness and finite-time stability of the given system. Finally, an example is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Copyright © 2017 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Exploring Modality Switching Effects in Negated Sentences: Further Evidence for Grounded Representations

PubMed Central

Hald, Lea A.; Hocking, Ian; Vernon, David; Marshall, Julie-Ann; Garnham, Alan

2013-01-01

Theories of embodied cognition (e.g., Perceptual Symbol Systems Theory; Barsalou, 1999, 2009) suggest that modality specific simulations underlie the representation of concepts. Supporting evidence comes from modality switch costs: participants are slower to verify a property in one modality (e.g., auditory, BLENDER-loud) after verifying a property in a different modality (e.g., gustatory, CRANBERRIES-tart) compared to the same modality (e.g., LEAVES-rustling, Pecher et al., 2003). Similarly, modality switching costs lead to a modulation of the N400 effect in event-related potentials (ERPs; Collins et al., 2011; Hald et al., 2011). This effect of modality switching has also been shown to interact with the veracity of the sentence (Hald et al., 2011). The current ERP study further explores the role of modality match/mismatch on the processing of veracity as well as negation (sentences containing “not”). Our results indicate a modulation in the ERP based on modality and veracity, plus an interaction. The evidence supports the idea that modality specific simulations occur during language processing, and furthermore suggest that these simulations alter the processing of negation. PMID:23450002

Quantum key based burst confidentiality in optical burst switched networks.

PubMed

Balamurugan, A M; Sivasubramanian, A

2014-01-01

The optical burst switching (OBS) is an emergent result to the technology concern that could achieve a feasible network in future. They are endowed with the ability to meet the bandwidth requirement of those applications that require intensive bandwidth. There are more domains opening up in the OBS that evidently shows their advantages and their capability to face the future network traffic. However, the concept of OBS is still far from perfection facing issues in case of security threat. The transfer of optical switching paradigm to optical burst switching faces serious downfall in the fields of burst aggregation, routing, authentication, dispute resolution, and quality of service (QoS). This paper deals with employing RC4 (stream cipher) to encrypt and decrypt bursts thereby ensuring the confidentiality of the burst. Although the use of AES algorithm has already been proposed for the same issue, by contrasting the two algorithms under the parameters of burst encryption and decryption time, end-to-end delay, it was found that RC4 provided better results. This paper looks to provide a better solution for the confidentiality of the burst in OBS networks.

Quantum Key Based Burst Confidentiality in Optical Burst Switched Networks

PubMed Central

Balamurugan, A. M.; Sivasubramanian, A.

2014-01-01

The optical burst switching (OBS) is an emergent result to the technology concern that could achieve a feasible network in future. They are endowed with the ability to meet the bandwidth requirement of those applications that require intensive bandwidth. There are more domains opening up in the OBS that evidently shows their advantages and their capability to face the future network traffic. However, the concept of OBS is still far from perfection facing issues in case of security threat. The transfer of optical switching paradigm to optical burst switching faces serious downfall in the fields of burst aggregation, routing, authentication, dispute resolution, and quality of service (QoS). This paper deals with employing RC4 (stream cipher) to encrypt and decrypt bursts thereby ensuring the confidentiality of the burst. Although the use of AES algorithm has already been proposed for the same issue, by contrasting the two algorithms under the parameters of burst encryption and decryption time, end-to-end delay, it was found that RC4 provided better results. This paper looks to provide a better solution for the confidentiality of the burst in OBS networks. PMID:24578663

Polarization switching detection method using a ferroelectric liquid crystal for dichroic atomic vapor laser lock frequency stabilization techniques.

PubMed

Dudzik, Grzegorz; Rzepka, Janusz; Abramski, Krzysztof M

2015-04-01

We present a concept of the polarization switching detection method implemented for frequency-stabilized lasers, called the polarization switching dichroic atomic vapor laser lock (PSDAVLL) technique. It is a combination of the well-known dichroic atomic vapor laser lock method for laser frequency stabilization with a synchronous detection system based on the surface-stabilized ferroelectric liquid crystal (SSFLC).The SSFLC is a polarization switch and quarter wave-plate component. This technique provides a 9.6 dB better dynamic range ratio (DNR) than the well-known two-photodiode detection configuration known as the balanced polarimeter. This paper describes the proposed method used practically in the VCSEL laser frequency stabilization system. The applied PSDAVLL method has allowed us to obtain a frequency stability of 2.7×10⁻⁹ and a reproducibility of 1.2×10⁻⁸, with a DNR of detected signals of around 81 dB. It has been shown that PSDAVLL might be successfully used as a method for spectra-stable laser sources.

Task-set switching under cue-based versus memory-based switching conditions in younger and older adults.

PubMed

Kray, Jutta

2006-08-11

Adult age differences in task switching and advance preparation were examined by comparing cue-based and memory-based switching conditions. Task switching was assessed by determining two types of costs that occur at the general (mixing costs) and specific (switching costs) level of switching. Advance preparation was investigated by varying the time interval until the next task (short, middle, very long). Results indicated that the implementation of task sets was different for cue-based switching with random task sequences and memory-based switching with predictable task sequences. Switching costs were strongly reduced under cue-based switching conditions, indicating that task-set cues facilitate the retrieval of the next task. Age differences were found for mixing costs and for switching costs only under cue-based conditions in which older adults showed smaller switching costs than younger adults. It is suggested that older adults adopt a less extreme bias between two tasks than younger adults in situations associated with uncertainty. For cue-based switching with random task sequences, older adults are less engaged in a complete reconfiguration of task sets because of the probability of a further task change. Furthermore, the reduction of switching costs was more pronounced for cue- than memory-based switching for short preparation intervals, whereas the reduction of switch costs was more pronounced for memory- than cue-based switching for longer preparation intervals at least for older adults. Together these findings suggest that the implementation of task sets is functionally different for the two types of task-switching conditions.

Theory of mind and switching predict prospective memory performance in adolescents.

PubMed

Altgassen, Mareike; Vetter, Nora C; Phillips, Louise H; Akgün, Canan; Kliegel, Matthias

2014-11-01

Research indicates ongoing development of prospective memory as well as theory of mind and executive functions across late childhood and adolescence. However, so far the interplay of these processes has not been investigated. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to investigate whether theory of mind and executive control processes (specifically updating, switching, and inhibition) predict prospective memory development across adolescence. In total, 42 adolescents and 41 young adults participated in this study. Young adults outperformed adolescents on tasks of prospective memory, theory of mind, and executive functions. Switching and theory of mind predicted prospective memory performance in adolescents. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

First-principles investigation on switching properties of spiropyran and merocyanine grafted graphyne nanotube device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhuvaneswari, R.; Nagarajan, V.; Chandiramouli, R.

2018-01-01

The density functional theory (DFT) method with non-equilibrium Green's function (NEGF) method is used to study the electronic properties of the graphyne nanotube device. The graphyne nanotube is used as a base material to graft photochromic spiropyran and merocyanine molecules. The current voltage characteristics clearly give the insights on the switching properties of spiropyran and merocyanine grafted graphyne device. The findings show that spiropyran grafted graphyne device as ON state and merocyanine grafted graphyne device as an OFF state device. Moreover, upon shining light of proper wavelength, the spiropyran/merocyanine grafted graphyne nanotube device can be used as a switch.

Switch-Task Performance in Rats Is Disturbed by 12 h of Sleep Deprivation But Not by 12 h of Sleep Fragmentation

PubMed Central

Leenaars, Cathalijn H.C.; Joosten, Ruud N.J.M.A.; Zwart, Allard; Sandberg, Hans; Ruimschotel, Emma; Hanegraaf, Maaike A.J.; Dematteis, Maurice; Feenstra, Matthijs G.P.; van Someren, Eus J.W.

2012-01-01

Study Objectives: Task-switching is an executive function involving the prefrontal cortex. Switching temporarily attenuates the speed and/or accuracy of performance, phenomena referred to as switch costs. In accordance with the idea that prefrontal function is particularly sensitive to sleep loss, switch-costs increase during prolonged waking in humans. It has been difficult to investigate the underlying neurobiological mechanisms because of the lack of a suitable animal model. Here, we introduce the first switch-task for rats and report the effects of sleep deprivation and inactivation of the medial prefrontal cortex. Design: Rats were trained to repeatedly switch between 2 stimulus-response associations, indicated by the presentation of a visual or an auditory stimulus. These stimulus-response associations were offered in blocks, and performance was compared for the first and fifth trials of each block. Performance was tested after exposure to 12 h of total sleep deprivation, sleep fragmentation, and their respective movement control conditions. Finally, it was tested after pharmacological inactivation of the medial prefrontal cortex. Settings: Controlled laboratory settings. Participants: 15 male Wistar rats. Measurements & Results: Both accuracy and latency showed switch-costs at baseline. Twelve hours of total sleep deprivation, but not sleep fragmentation, impaired accuracy selectively on the switch-trials. Inactivation of the medial prefrontal cortex by local neuronal inactivation resulted in an overall decrease in accuracy. Conclusions: We developed and validated a switch-task that is sensitive to sleep deprivation. This introduces the possibility for in-depth investigations on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying executive impairments after sleep disturbance in a rat model. Citation: Leenaars CHC; Joosten RNJMA; Zwart A; Sandberg H; Ruimschotel E; Hanegraaf MAJ; Dematteis M; Feenstra MGP; van Someren EJW. Switch-task performance in rats is disturbed by 12 h of sleep deprivation but not by 12 h of sleep fragmentation. SLEEP 2012;35(2):211-221. PMID:22294811

Bariatric surgery options.

PubMed

Woodward, Bryan G

2003-01-01

There are multiple surgical procedures used for weight loss. The concept of achieving malabsorption through manipulation of the gastrointestinal contract is briefly discussed. Various surgical options are considered with their advantages and disadvantages, namely vertical banded gastroplasty, gastric banding, Roux-en-y gastric bypass, distal gastric bypass billiopancreatic diversion, and duodental switch.

On Per-Phase Topology Control and Switching in Emerging Distribution Systems

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ding, Fei; Mousavi, Mirrasoul J.

This paper presents a new concept and approach for topology control and switching in distribution systems by extending the traditional circuit switching to laterals and single-phase loads. Voltage unbalance and other key performance indicators including voltage magnitudes, line loading, and energy losses are used to characterize and demonstrate the technical value of optimizing system topology on a per-phase basis in response to feeder conditions. The near-optimal per-phase topology control is defined as a series of hierarchical optimization problems. The proposed approach is respectively applied to IEEE 13-bus and 123-bus test systems for demonstration, which included the impact of integrating electricmore » vehicles (EVs) in the test circuit. It is concluded that the proposed approach can be effectively leveraged to improve voltage profiles with electric vehicles, the extent of which depends upon the performance of the base case without EVs.« less

Novel Integration of a 6t Cryogen-Free Magneto-Optical System with a Variable Temperature Sample Using a Single Cryocooler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berryhill, A. B.; Coffey, D. M.; McGhee, R. W.; Burkhardt, E. E.

2008-03-01

Cryomagnetics' new "C-Mag Optical" Magneto-Optic Property Measurement System is a versatile materials and device characterization system that allows the researcher to simultaneously control the applied magnetic field and temperature of a sample while studying its electrical and optic properties. The system integrates a totally liquid cryogen-free 6T superconducting split-pair magnet with a variable temperature sample space, both cooled using a single 4.2K pulse tube refrigerator. To avoid warming the magnet when operating a sample at elevated temperatures, a novel heat switch was developed. The heat switch allows the sample temperature to be varied from 10K to 300K while maintaining the magnet at 4.2K or below. In this paper, the design and performance of the overall magnet system and the heat switch will be presented. New concepts for the next generation system will also be discussed.

Communications Satellite Systems Conference, 9th, San Diego, CA, March 7-11, 1982, Collection of Technical Papers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

The Shuttle-to-Geostationary Orbital Transfer by mid-level thrust is considered along with multibeam antenna concepts for global communications, the antenna pointing systems for large communication satellites, the connection phase of multidestination protocols for broadcast satellites, and an experiment in high-speed international packet switching. Attention is given to a dynamic switch matrix for the TDMA satellite switching system, the characterization of 16 bit microprocessors for space use, in-orbit operation and test of Intelsat V satellites, the first operational communications system via satellite in Europe, the Arab satellite communications systems, second generation business satellite systems for Europe, and a high performance Ku-band satellite for the 1980's. Other topics investigated are related to Ku-band terminal design tradeoffs, progress in the definition of the Italian satellite for domestic telecommunications, future global satellite systems for Intelsat, and satellite refuelling in orbit.

Importance of individual amino acids in the Switch I region in eEF2 studied by functional complementation in S. cerevisiae.

PubMed

Bartish, Galyna; Nygård, Odd

2008-05-01

Elongation factor 2 (eEF2) is a member of the G-protein super family. G-proteins undergo conformational changes associated with binding of the guanosine nucleotide and hydrolysis of the bound GTP. These structural rearrangements affects the Switch I region (also known as the Effector loop). We have studied the role of individual amino acids in the Switch I region (amino acids 25-73) of S. cerevisiae eEF2 using functional complementation in yeast. 21 point mutations in the Switch I region were created by site-directed mutagenesis. Mutants K49R, E52Q, A53G, F55Y, K60R, Q63A, T68S, I69M and A73G were functional while mutants R54H, F55N, D57A, D57E, D57S, R59K, R59M, Q63E, R65A, R65N, T68A and T68M were inactive. Expression of mutants K49R, A53G, Q63A, I69M and A73G was associated with markedly decreased growth rates and yeast cells expressing mutants A53G and I69M became temperature sensitive. The functional capacity of eEF2 in which the major part Switch I (amino acids T56 to I69) was converted into the homologous sequence found in EF-G from E. coli was also studied. This protein chimera could functionally replace yeast eEF2 in vivo. Yeast cells expressing this mutant grew extremely slowly, showed increased cell death and became temperature sensitive. The ability of the mutant to replace authentic eEF2 in vivo indicates that the structural rearrangement of Switch I necessary for eEF2 function is similar in eukaryotes and bacteria. The effect of two point mutations in the P-loop was also studied. Mutant A25G but not A25V could functionally replace yeast eEF2 even if cells expressing the mutant grew slowly. The A25G mutation converted the consensus sequences AXXXXGK[T/S] in eEF2 to the corresponding motif GXXXXGK[T/S] found in all other G-proteins, suggesting that the alanine found in the P-loop of peptidyltranslocases are not essential for function.

Complexity and dynamics of switched human balance control during quiet standing.

PubMed

Nema, Salam; Kowalczyk, Piotr; Loram, Ian

2015-10-01

In this paper, we use a combination of numerical simulations, time series analysis, and complexity measures to investigate the dynamics of switched systems with noise, which are often used as models of human balance control during quiet standing. We link the results with complexity measures found in experimental data of human sway motion during quiet standing. The control model ensuring balance, which we use, is based on an act-and-wait control concept, that is, a human controller is switched on when a certain sway angle is reached. Otherwise, there is no active control present. Given a time series data, we determine how does it look a typical pattern of control strategy in our model system. We detect the switched nonlinearity in the system using a frequency analysis method in the absence of noise. We also analyse the effect of time delay on the existence of limit cycles in the system in the absence of noise. We perform the entropy and detrended fluctuation analyses in view of linking the switchings (and the dead zone) with the occurrences of complexity in the model system in the presence of noise. Finally, we perform the entropy and detrended fluctuation analyses on experimental data and link the results with numerical findings in our model example.

Neuro-Oscillatory Mechanisms of Intersensory Selective Attention and Task Switching in School-Aged Children, Adolescents and Young Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Murphy, Jeremy W.; Foxe, John J.; Molholm, Sophie

2016-01-01

The ability to attend to one among multiple sources of information is central to everyday functioning. Just as central is the ability to switch attention among competing inputs as the task at hand changes. Such processes develop surprisingly slowly, such that even into adolescence, we remain slower and more error prone at switching among tasks…

Photo-induced micro-mechanical optical switch

DOEpatents

Rajic, Slobodan; Datskos, Panagiotis George; Egert, Charles M.

2002-01-01

An optical switch is formed by introducing light lengthwise to a microcantilever waveguide directed toward a second waveguide. The microcantilever is caused to bend by light emitted from a laser diode orthogonal to the microcantilever and at an energy above the band gap, which induces stress as a result of the generation of free carriers. The bending of the waveguide directs the carrier frequency light to a second receptor waveguide or to a non-responsive surface. The switch may be combined in an array to perform multiple switching functions rapidly and at low energy losses.

A Superconducting Switch for Insertion Devices with Variable Period Length

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holubek, T.; Baumbach, T.; Casalbuoni, S.; Gerstl, S.; Grau, A.; Hagelstein, M.; Jauregui, D. Saez de; Boffo, C.; Walter, W.

Superconducting insertion devices (IDs) are very attractive for synchrotron light sources since they offer the possibility to enhance the tuning range and functionality significantly by period length switching. Period length switching can be realized by reversing the current in a separately powered subset of the superconducting windings.So far, the first demonstration mock-up coil allowing period length tripling was fabricated and tested successfully. Here, we report on the feasibility of superconducting switches built to operate in a liquid helium bath and under conduction cooled conditions.

Output regulation control for switched stochastic delay systems with dissipative property under error-dependent switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, L. L.; Jin, C. L.; Ge, X.

2018-01-01

In this paper, the output regulation problem with dissipative property for a class of switched stochastic delay systems is investigated, based on an error-dependent switching law. Under the assumption that none subsystem is solvable for the problem, a sufficient condition is derived by structuring multiple Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals with respect to multiple supply rates, via designing error feedback regulators. The condition is also established when dissipative property reduces to passive property. Finally, two numerical examples are given to demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of the present method.

Functions of Arabic-English Code-Switching: Sociolinguistic Insights from a Study Abroad Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al Masaeed, Khaled

2013-01-01

This sociolinguistic study examines the functions and motivations of code-switching, which is used here to mean the use of more than one language in the same conversation. The conversations studied here take place in a very particular context: one-on-one speaking sessions in a study abroad program in Morocco where English is the L1 and Arabic the…

Switching to the Rubber Hand

PubMed Central

Yeh, Su-Ling; Lane, Timothy Joseph; Chang, An-Yi; Chien, Sung-En

2017-01-01

Inducing the rubber hand illusion (RHI) requires that participants look at an imitation hand while it is stroked in synchrony with their occluded biological hand. Previous explanations of the RHI have emphasized multisensory integration, and excluded higher cognitive functions. We investigated the relationship between the RHI and higher cognitive functions by experimentally testing task switch (as measured by switch cost) and mind wandering (as measured by SART score); we also included a questionnaire for attentional control that comprises two subscales, attention-shift and attention-focus. To assess experience of RHI, the Botvinick and Cohen (1998) questionnaire was used and illusion onset time was recorded. Our results indicate that rapidity of onset reliably indicates illusion strength. Regression analysis revealed that participants evincing less switch cost and higher attention-shift scores had faster RHI onset times, and that those with higher attention-shift scores experienced the RHI more vividly. These results suggest that the multi-sensory hypothesis is not sufficient to explain the illusion: higher cognitive functions should be taken into account when explaining variation in the experience of ownership for the rubber hand. PMID:29312048

Describing-function analysis of a ripple regulator with slew-rate limits and time delays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wester, Gene W.

1990-01-01

The effects of time delays and slew-rate limits on the steady-state operating points and performance of a free-running ripple regulator are evaluated using describing-function analysis. The describing function of an ideal comparator (no time delays or slew rate limits) has no phase shift and is independent of frequency. It is found that turn-on delay and turn-off delay have different effects on gain and phase and cannot be combined. Comparator hysteresis affects both gain and phase; likewise, time delays generally affect both gain and phase. It is found that the effective time delay around the feedback loop is one half the sum of turn-on and turn-off delays, regardless of whether the delays are caused by storage time or slew rate limits. Expressions are formulated for the switching frequency, switch duty ratio, dc output, and output ripple. For the case of no hysteresis, a simple, graphical solution for the switching frequency is possible, and the resulting switching frequency is independent of first-order variations of input or load.

An approach to efficient mobility management in intelligent networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Murthy, K. M. S.

1995-01-01

Providing personal communication systems supporting full mobility require intelligent networks for tracking mobile users and facilitating outgoing and incoming calls over different physical and network environments. In realizing the intelligent network functionalities, databases play a major role. Currently proposed network architectures envision using the SS7-based signaling network for linking these DB's and also for interconnecting DB's with switches. If the network has to support ubiquitous, seamless mobile services, then it has to support additionally mobile application parts, viz., mobile origination calls, mobile destination calls, mobile location updates and inter-switch handovers. These functions will generate significant amount of data and require them to be transferred between databases (HLR, VLR) and switches (MSC's) very efficiently. In the future, the users (fixed or mobile) may use and communicate with sophisticated CPE's (e.g. multimedia, multipoint and multisession calls) which may require complex signaling functions. This will generate volumness service handling data and require efficient transfer of these message between databases and switches. Consequently, the network providers would be able to add new services and capabilities to their networks incrementally, quickly and cost-effectively.

Cardiovascular fitness and executive control during task-switching: an ERP study.

PubMed

Scisco, Jenna L; Leynes, P Andrew; Kang, Jie

2008-07-01

Cardiovascular fitness recently has been linked to executive control function in older adults. The present study examined the relationship between cardiovascular fitness and executive control in young adults using event-related potentials (ERPs). Participants completed a two-part experiment. In part one, a graded exercise test (GXT) was administered using a cycle ergometer to obtain VO(2)max, a measure of maximal oxygen uptake. High-fit participants had VO(2)max measures at or above the 70th percentile based on age and sex, and low-fit participants had VO(2)max measures at or below the 30th percentile. In part two, a task-switching paradigm was used to investigate executive control. Task-switching trials produced slower response times and greater amplitude for both the P3a and P3b components of the ERP relative to a non-switch trial block. No ERP components varied as a function of fitness group. These findings, combined with results from previous research, suggest that the relationship between greater cardiovascular fitness and better cognitive function emerges after early adulthood.

Smoothing tautologies, hidden dynamics, and sigmoid asymptotics for piecewise smooth systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeffrey, Mike R.

2015-10-01

Switches in real systems take many forms, such as impacts, electronic relays, mitosis, and the implementation of decisions or control strategies. To understand what is lost, and what can be retained, when we model a switch as an instantaneous event, requires a consideration of so-called hidden terms. These are asymptotically vanishing outside the switch, but can be encoded in the form of nonlinear switching terms. A general expression for the switch can be developed in the form of a series of sigmoid functions. We review the key steps in extending Filippov's method of sliding modes to such systems. We show how even slight nonlinear effects can hugely alter the behaviour of an electronic control circuit, and lead to "hidden" attractors inside the switching surface.

Smoothing tautologies, hidden dynamics, and sigmoid asymptotics for piecewise smooth systems.

PubMed

Jeffrey, Mike R

2015-10-01

Switches in real systems take many forms, such as impacts, electronic relays, mitosis, and the implementation of decisions or control strategies. To understand what is lost, and what can be retained, when we model a switch as an instantaneous event, requires a consideration of so-called hidden terms. These are asymptotically vanishing outside the switch, but can be encoded in the form of nonlinear switching terms. A general expression for the switch can be developed in the form of a series of sigmoid functions. We review the key steps in extending Filippov's method of sliding modes to such systems. We show how even slight nonlinear effects can hugely alter the behaviour of an electronic control circuit, and lead to "hidden" attractors inside the switching surface.

Smoothing tautologies, hidden dynamics, and sigmoid asymptotics for piecewise smooth systems

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jeffrey, Mike R., E-mail: mike.jeffrey@bristol.ac.uk

2015-10-15

Switches in real systems take many forms, such as impacts, electronic relays, mitosis, and the implementation of decisions or control strategies. To understand what is lost, and what can be retained, when we model a switch as an instantaneous event, requires a consideration of so-called hidden terms. These are asymptotically vanishing outside the switch, but can be encoded in the form of nonlinear switching terms. A general expression for the switch can be developed in the form of a series of sigmoid functions. We review the key steps in extending Filippov's method of sliding modes to such systems. We showmore » how even slight nonlinear effects can hugely alter the behaviour of an electronic control circuit, and lead to “hidden” attractors inside the switching surface.« less

Integration of GaN/AlN all-optical switch with SiN/AlN waveguide utilizing spot-size conversion.

PubMed

Iizuka, Norio; Yoshida, Haruhiko; Managaki, Nobuto; Shimizu, Toshimasa; Hassanet, Sodabanlu; Cumtornkittikul, Chiyasit; Sugiyama, Masakazu; Nakano, Yoshiaki

2009-12-07

Spot-size converters for an all-optical switch utilizing the intersubband transition in GaN/AlN multiple quantum wells are studied with the purpose of reducing operation power by improving the coupling efficiency between the input fiber and the switch. With a stair-like spot-size converter, the absorption saturation of 5 dB is achieved with a pulse energy of 25 pJ. The switch is integrated with a SiN/AlN waveguide and spot-size converters, and the structure provides the possibility of an integration of the switch with other functional devices. To further improve the coupling loss between the waveguide and the switch, triangular-shaped converters are investigated, demonstrating losses as low as 2 dB/facet.

Evolving PSTN to NGN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Liang T.

2004-04-01

The concept of Next Generation Network (NGN) was conceived around 1998 as an integrated solution to combine the quality and features of the PSTN with the low cost and routing flexibility of the Internet to provide a single infrastructure for the future public network. This carrier grade Internet solution calls for the creation of a consolidated, packet transport and switching infrastructure and the development of a flexible, open, software switch (softswitch) to handle voice telephony as well as multimedia services. Almost all the telecom equipment manufacturers as well as some Internet equipment vendors immediately subscribed to this vision and joined the race to create convergent products for the NGN market.

A parallel algorithm for switch-level timing simulation on a hypercube multiprocessor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rao, Hariprasad Nannapaneni

1989-01-01

The parallel approach to speeding up simulation is studied, specifically the simulation of digital LSI MOS circuitry on the Intel iPSC/2 hypercube. The simulation algorithm is based on RSIM, an event driven switch-level simulator that incorporates a linear transistor model for simulating digital MOS circuits. Parallel processing techniques based on the concepts of Virtual Time and rollback are utilized so that portions of the circuit may be simulated on separate processors, in parallel for as large an increase in speed as possible. A partitioning algorithm is also developed in order to subdivide the circuit for parallel processing.

Generalized Stoner-Wohlfarth model accurately describing the switching processes in pseudo-single ferromagnetic particles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cimpoesu, Dorin, E-mail: cdorin@uaic.ro; Stoleriu, Laurentiu; Stancu, Alexandru

2013-12-14

We propose a generalized Stoner-Wohlfarth (SW) type model to describe various experimentally observed angular dependencies of the switching field in non-single-domain magnetic particles. Because the nonuniform magnetic states are generally characterized by complicated spin configurations with no simple analytical description, we maintain the macrospin hypothesis and we phenomenologically include the effects of nonuniformities only in the anisotropy energy, preserving as much as possible the elegance of SW model, the concept of critical curve and its geometric interpretation. We compare the results obtained with our model with full micromagnetic simulations in order to evaluate the performance and limits of our approach.

All-fiber pulse shortening of passively Q-switched microchip laser pulses down to sub-200 fs.

PubMed

Lehneis, R; Steinmetz, A; Limpert, J; Tünnermann, A

2014-10-15

We present an all-fiber concept that generates ultrashort pulses using a passively Q-switched microchip seed laser. A proof-of-principle configuration combines nonlinear pulse compression applying a chirped fiber-Bragg-grating, dispersion-free pulse shortening by means of a fiber-integrated spectral filtering, and a final hollow-core-fiber compression to reach the sub-200-fs pulse-duration region. In a compact all-fiber pulse-shortening unit, initial 100 ps long microchip pulses at 1064 nm wavelength have been shortened to 174 fs and shifted to 1034 nm while preserving a high temporal quality.

High-speed wavelength switching of tunable MEMS vertical cavity surface emitting laser by ringing suppression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Inoue, Shunya; Nishimura, Shun; Nakahama, Masanori; Matsutani, Akihiro; Sakaguchi, Takahiro; Koyama, Fumio

2018-04-01

For use in wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) with high-speed wavelength routing functions, the fast wavelength switching of tunable lasers is a key function. A tunable MEMS vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) is a good candidate as a light source for this purpose. The cantilever in MEMS VCSELs has a high mechanical resonance frequency thanks to its small size, but the switching time is limited by the ringing of the cantilever structure. In this paper, we analyzed the mechanical behavior of a cantilever MEMS mirror and demonstrated ringing-free operation with an engineered voltage signal. The applied voltage waveform was optimized in a two-step format and we experimentally obtained ringing free wavelength switching. We measured the transient response of the wavelength by inserting a tunable filter, exhibiting the settling time of less than 2.5 µs, which corresponds to a half period of the cantilever resonance frequency.

TWC and AWG based optical switching structure for OVPN in WDM-PON

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Hui-feng; Chen, Yu-xin; Wang, Qin

2015-03-01

With the rapid development of optical elements with large capacity and high speed, the network architecture is of great importance in determing the performance of wavelength division multiplexing passive optical network (WDM-PON). This paper proposes a switching structure based on the tunable wavelength converter (TWC) and the arrayed-waveguide grating (AWG) for WDM-PON, in order to provide the function of opitcal virtual private network (OVPN). Using the tunable wavelength converter technology, this switch structure is designed and works between the optical line terminal (OLT) and optical network units (ONUs) in the WDM-PON system. Moreover, the wavelength assignment of upstream/downstream can be realized and direct communication between ONUs is also allowed by privite wavelength channel. Simulation results show that the proposed TWC and AWG based switching structure is able to achieve OVPN function and to gain better performances in terms of bite error rate (BER) and time delay.

Refining value-at-risk estimates using a Bayesian Markov-switching GJR-GARCH copula-EVT model.

PubMed

Sampid, Marius Galabe; Hasim, Haslifah M; Dai, Hongsheng

2018-01-01

In this paper, we propose a model for forecasting Value-at-Risk (VaR) using a Bayesian Markov-switching GJR-GARCH(1,1) model with skewed Student's-t innovation, copula functions and extreme value theory. A Bayesian Markov-switching GJR-GARCH(1,1) model that identifies non-constant volatility over time and allows the GARCH parameters to vary over time following a Markov process, is combined with copula functions and EVT to formulate the Bayesian Markov-switching GJR-GARCH(1,1) copula-EVT VaR model, which is then used to forecast the level of risk on financial asset returns. We further propose a new method for threshold selection in EVT analysis, which we term the hybrid method. Empirical and back-testing results show that the proposed VaR models capture VaR reasonably well in periods of calm and in periods of crisis.

Dwell time-based stabilisation of switched delay systems using free-weighting matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koru, Ahmet Taha; Delibaşı, Akın; Özbay, Hitay

2018-01-01

In this paper, we present a quasi-convex optimisation method to minimise an upper bound of the dwell time for stability of switched delay systems. Piecewise Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals are introduced and the upper bound for the derivative of Lyapunov functionals is estimated by free-weighting matrices method to investigate non-switching stability of each candidate subsystems. Then, a sufficient condition for the dwell time is derived to guarantee the asymptotic stability of the switched delay system. Once these conditions are represented by a set of linear matrix inequalities , dwell time optimisation problem can be formulated as a standard quasi-convex optimisation problem. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the improvements over previously obtained dwell time bounds. Using the results obtained in the stability case, we present a nonlinear minimisation algorithm to synthesise the dwell time minimiser controllers. The algorithm solves the problem with successive linearisation of nonlinear conditions.

Adaptive Fuzzy Output Feedback Control for Switched Nonlinear Systems With Unmodeled Dynamics.

PubMed

Tong, Shaocheng; Li, Yongming

2017-02-01

This paper investigates a robust adaptive fuzzy control stabilization problem for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with arbitrary switching signals that use an observer-based output feedback scheme. The considered switched nonlinear systems possess the unstructured uncertainties, unmodeled dynamics, and without requiring the states being available for measurement. A state observer which is independent of switching signals is designed to solve the problem of unmeasured states. Fuzzy logic systems are used to identify unknown lumped nonlinear functions so that the problem of unstructured uncertainties can be solved. By combining adaptive backstepping design principle and small-gain approach, a novel robust adaptive fuzzy output feedback stabilization control approach is developed. The stability of the closed-loop system is proved via the common Lyapunov function theory and small-gain theorem. Finally, the simulation results are given to demonstrate the validity and performance of the proposed control strategy.

Influence of affective valence on working memory processes.

PubMed

Gotoh, Fumiko

2008-02-01

Recent research has revealed widespread effects of emotion on cognitive function and memory. However, the influence of affective valence on working or short-term memory remains largely unexplored. In two experiments, the present study examined the predictions that negative words would capture attention, that attention would be difficult to disengage from such negative words, and that the cost of attention switching would increase the time required to update information in working memory. Participants switched between two concurrent working memory tasks: word recognition and a working memory digit updating task. Experiment 1 showed substantial switching cost for negative words, relative to neutral words. Experiment 2 replicated the first experiment, using a self-report measure of anxiety to examine if switching cost is a function of an anxiety-related attention bias. Results did not support this hypothesis. In addition, Experiment 2 revealed switch costs for positive words without the effect of the attention bias from anxiety. The present study demonstrates the effect of affective valence on a specific component of working memory. Moreover, findings suggest why affective valence effects on working memory have not been found in previous research.

Dynamics of optical matter creation and annihilation in colloidal liquids controlled by laser trapping power.

PubMed

Liu, Jin; Dai, Qiao-Feng; Huang, Xu-Guang; Wu, Li-Jun; Guo, Qi; Hu, Wei; Yang, Xiang-Bo; Lan, Sheng; Gopal, Achanta Venu; Trofimov, Vyacheslav A

2008-11-15

We investigate the dynamics of optical matter creation and annihilation in a colloidal liquid that was employed to construct an all-optical switch. It is revealed that the switching-on process can be characterized by the Fermi-Dirac distribution function, while the switching-off process can be described by a steady state followed by a single exponential decay. The phase transition times exhibit a strong dependence on trapping power. With an increasing trapping power, while the switching-on time decreases rapidly, the switch-off time increases significantly, indicating the effects of optical binding and van der Waals force on the lifetime of the optical matter.

Global exponential stability for switched memristive neural networks with time-varying delays.

PubMed

Xin, Youming; Li, Yuxia; Cheng, Zunshui; Huang, Xia

2016-08-01

This paper considers the problem of exponential stability for switched memristive neural networks (MNNs) with time-varying delays. Different from most of the existing papers, we model a memristor as a continuous system, and view switched MNNs as switched neural networks with uncertain time-varying parameters. Based on average dwell time technique, mode-dependent average dwell time technique and multiple Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional approach, two conditions are derived to design the switching signal and guarantee the exponential stability of the considered neural networks, which are delay-dependent and formulated by linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, the effectiveness of the theoretical results is demonstrated by two numerical examples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Second Career Teachers and (Mis)Recognitions of Professional Identities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nielsen, Ann

2016-01-01

Since the late 1980s there has been an increase of "second career teachers" (SCTs), professionals that switch careers to become teachers. Little is known about SCTs and their sense of professional identity. Building from Pierre Bourdieu's concepts of power and cultural capital, the professional identities of teachers were examined…

Student Difficulties Regarding Symbolic and Graphical Representations of Vector Fields

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bollen, Laurens; van Kampen, Paul; Baily, Charles; Kelly, Mossy; De Cock, Mieke

2017-01-01

The ability to switch between various representations is an invaluable problem-solving skill in physics. In addition, research has shown that using multiple representations can greatly enhance a person's understanding of mathematical and physical concepts. This paper describes a study of student difficulties regarding interpreting, constructing,…

Opening Switch Research on a Dense Plasma Focus.

DTIC Science & Technology

Several experiments were performed to enhance power coupling to the load by placing the load electrode opposite the muzzle end of the Dense Plasma ... Focus plasma gun. The impaler concept, whereby the current sheath is run into a knife edge insulator, was tested in two configurations. However, the

The Friendship Detector

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cox, Scott

2012-01-01

After years of using Rube Goldberg-inspired projects to teach concepts of simple machines, the author sought a comparable project to reinforce electricity lessons in his ninth-grade Science and Technology course. The Friendship Detector gives students a chance to design, test, and build a complex circuit with multiple switches and battery-powered…

Characteristics of silicon-based Sagnac optical switches using magneto-optical micro-ring array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ni, Shuang; Wu, Baojian; Liu, Yawen

2018-01-01

The miniaturization and integration of optical switches are necessary for photonic switching networks and the utilization of magneto optical effects is a promising candidate. We propose a Sagnac optical switch chip based on the principle of nonreciprocal phase shift (NPS) of the magneto-optical (MO) micro-ring (MOMR) array, composed of SiO2/Si/Ce:YIG/SGGG. The MO switching function is realized by controlling the drive current in the snake-like metal microstrip circuit layered on the MOMRs. The transmission characteristics of the Sagnac MO switch chip dependent on magnetization intensity, waveguide coupling coefficient and waveguide loss are simulated. By optimizing the coupling coefficients, we design an MO switch using two serial MOMRs with a circumference of 38.37 μm, and the 3dB bandwidth and the extinction ratio are respectively up to 1.6 nm and 50dB for the waveguide loss coefficient of ?. And the switching magnetization can be further reduced by increasing the number of parallel MOMRs. The frequency response of the MO Sagnac switch is analyzed as well.

The role of subjective frequency in language switching: An ERP investigation using masked priming

PubMed Central

Chauncey, Krysta; Grainger, Jonathan; Holcomb, Phillip J.

2012-01-01

Two experiments examined the nature of language-switching effects in a priming paradigm with event-related brain potential (ERP) recordings. primes and targets were always unrelated words but could be either from the same or different languages (Experiment 1) or from the same or a different frequency range (Experiment 2). Effects of switching language across prime and target differed as a function of the direction of the switch and prime duration in Experiment 1. Effects tended to be stronger with 100-ms prime durations than with 50-ms durations, and the expected pattern of greater negativity in the switch condition appeared earlier when primes were in L1 and targets in L2 than vice versa. Experiment 2 examined whether these language-switching effects could be due to differences in the subjective frequency of words in a bilingual’s two languages, by testing a frequency-switching manipulation within the L1. Effects of frequency switching were evident in the ERP waveforms, but the pattern did not resemble the language-switching effects, therefore suggesting that different mechanisms are at play. PMID:21264577

Atomic switch: atom/ion movement controlled devices for beyond von-neumann computers.

PubMed

Hasegawa, Tsuyoshi; Terabe, Kazuya; Tsuruoka, Tohru; Aono, Masakazu

2012-01-10

An atomic switch is a nanoionic device that controls the diffusion of metal ions/atoms and their reduction/oxidation processes in the switching operation to form/annihilate a conductive path. Since metal atoms can provide a highly conductive channel even if their cluster size is in the nanometer scale, atomic switches may enable downscaling to smaller than the 11 nm technology node, which is a great challenge for semiconductor devices. Atomic switches also possess novel characteristics, such as high on/off ratios, very low power consumption and non-volatility. The unique operating mechanisms of these devices have enabled the development of various types of atomic switch, such as gap-type and gapless-type two-terminal atomic switches and three-terminal atomic switches. Novel functions, such as selective volatile/nonvolatile, synaptic, memristive, and photo-assisted operations have been demonstrated. Such atomic switch characteristics can not only improve the performance of present-day electronic systems, but also enable development of new types of electronic systems, such as beyond von- Neumann computers. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Temporal prediction errors modulate task-switching performance

PubMed Central

Limongi, Roberto; Silva, Angélica M.; Góngora-Costa, Begoña

2015-01-01

We have previously shown that temporal prediction errors (PEs, the differences between the expected and the actual stimulus’ onset times) modulate the effective connectivity between the anterior cingulate cortex and the right anterior insular cortex (rAI), causing the activity of the rAI to decrease. The activity of the rAI is associated with efficient performance under uncertainty (e.g., changing a prepared behavior when a change demand is not expected), which leads to hypothesize that temporal PEs might disrupt behavior-change performance under uncertainty. This hypothesis has not been tested at a behavioral level. In this work, we evaluated this hypothesis within the context of task switching and concurrent temporal predictions. Our participants performed temporal predictions while observing one moving ball striking a stationary ball which bounced off with a variable temporal gap. Simultaneously, they performed a simple color comparison task. In some trials, a change signal made the participants change their behaviors. Performance accuracy decreased as a function of both the temporal PE and the delay. Explaining these results without appealing to ad hoc concepts such as “executive control” is a challenge for cognitive neuroscience. We provide a predictive coding explanation. We hypothesize that exteroceptive and proprioceptive minimization of PEs would converge in a fronto-basal ganglia network which would include the rAI. Both temporal gaps (or uncertainty) and temporal PEs would drive and modulate this network respectively. Whereas the temporal gaps would drive the activity of the rAI, the temporal PEs would modulate the endogenous excitatory connections of the fronto-striatal network. We conclude that in the context of perceptual uncertainty, the system is not able to minimize perceptual PE, causing the ongoing behavior to finalize and, in consequence, disrupting task switching. PMID:26379568

Adaptive support ventilation may deliver unwanted respiratory rate-tidal volume combinations in patients with acute lung injury ventilated according to an open lung concept.

PubMed

Dongelmans, Dave A; Paulus, Frederique; Veelo, Denise P; Binnekade, Jan M; Vroom, Margreeth B; Schultz, Marcus J

2011-05-01

With adaptive support ventilation, respiratory rate and tidal volume (V(T)) are a function of the Otis least work of breathing formula. We hypothesized that adaptive support ventilation in an open lung ventilator strategy would deliver higher V(T)s to patients with acute lung injury. Patients with acute lung injury were ventilated according to a local guideline advising the use of lower V(T) (6-8 ml/kg predicted body weight), high concentrations of positive end-expiratory pressure, and recruitment maneuvers. Ventilation parameters were recorded when the ventilator was switched to adaptive support ventilation, and after recruitment maneuvers. If V(T) increased more than 8 ml/kg predicted body weight, airway pressure was limited to correct for the rise of V(T). Ten patients with a mean (±SD) Pao(2)/Fio(2) of 171 ± 86 mmHg were included. After a switch from pressure-controlled ventilation to adaptive support ventilation, respiratory rate declined (from 31 ± 5 to 21 ± 6 breaths/min; difference = 10 breaths/min, 95% CI 3-17 breaths/min, P = 0.008) and V(T) increased (from 6.5 ± 0.8 to 9.0 ± 1.6 ml/kg predicted body weight; difference = 2.5 ml, 95% CI 0.4-4.6 ml/kg predicted body weight, P = 0.02). Pressure limitation corrected for the rise of V(T), but minute ventilation declined, forcing the user to switch back to pressure-controlled ventilation. Adaptive support ventilation, compared with pressure-controlled ventilation in an open lung strategy setting, delivers a lower respiratory rate-higher V(T) combination. Pressure limitation does correct for the rise of V(T), but leads to a decline in minute ventilation.

Temporal prediction errors modulate task-switching performance.

PubMed

Limongi, Roberto; Silva, Angélica M; Góngora-Costa, Begoña

2015-01-01

We have previously shown that temporal prediction errors (PEs, the differences between the expected and the actual stimulus' onset times) modulate the effective connectivity between the anterior cingulate cortex and the right anterior insular cortex (rAI), causing the activity of the rAI to decrease. The activity of the rAI is associated with efficient performance under uncertainty (e.g., changing a prepared behavior when a change demand is not expected), which leads to hypothesize that temporal PEs might disrupt behavior-change performance under uncertainty. This hypothesis has not been tested at a behavioral level. In this work, we evaluated this hypothesis within the context of task switching and concurrent temporal predictions. Our participants performed temporal predictions while observing one moving ball striking a stationary ball which bounced off with a variable temporal gap. Simultaneously, they performed a simple color comparison task. In some trials, a change signal made the participants change their behaviors. Performance accuracy decreased as a function of both the temporal PE and the delay. Explaining these results without appealing to ad hoc concepts such as "executive control" is a challenge for cognitive neuroscience. We provide a predictive coding explanation. We hypothesize that exteroceptive and proprioceptive minimization of PEs would converge in a fronto-basal ganglia network which would include the rAI. Both temporal gaps (or uncertainty) and temporal PEs would drive and modulate this network respectively. Whereas the temporal gaps would drive the activity of the rAI, the temporal PEs would modulate the endogenous excitatory connections of the fronto-striatal network. We conclude that in the context of perceptual uncertainty, the system is not able to minimize perceptual PE, causing the ongoing behavior to finalize and, in consequence, disrupting task switching.

Bistability in a Metabolic Network Underpins the De Novo Evolution of Colony Switching in Pseudomonas fluorescens

PubMed Central

Gallie, Jenna; Libby, Eric; Bertels, Frederic; Remigi, Philippe; Jendresen, Christian B.; Ferguson, Gayle C.; Desprat, Nicolas; Buffing, Marieke F.; Sauer, Uwe; Beaumont, Hubertus J. E.; Martinussen, Jan; Kilstrup, Mogens; Rainey, Paul B.

2015-01-01

Phenotype switching is commonly observed in nature. This prevalence has allowed the elucidation of a number of underlying molecular mechanisms. However, little is known about how phenotypic switches arise and function in their early evolutionary stages. The first opportunity to provide empirical insight was delivered by an experiment in which populations of the bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25 evolved, de novo, the ability to switch between two colony phenotypes. Here we unravel the molecular mechanism behind colony switching, revealing how a single nucleotide change in a gene enmeshed in central metabolism (carB) generates such a striking phenotype. We show that colony switching is underpinned by ON/OFF expression of capsules consisting of a colanic acid-like polymer. We use molecular genetics, biochemical analyses, and experimental evolution to establish that capsule switching results from perturbation of the pyrimidine biosynthetic pathway. Of central importance is a bifurcation point at which uracil triphosphate is partitioned towards either nucleotide metabolism or polymer production. This bifurcation marks a cell-fate decision point whereby cells with relatively high pyrimidine levels favour nucleotide metabolism (capsule OFF), while cells with lower pyrimidine levels divert resources towards polymer biosynthesis (capsule ON). This decision point is present and functional in the wild-type strain. Finally, we present a simple mathematical model demonstrating that the molecular components of the decision point are capable of producing switching. Despite its simple mutational cause, the connection between genotype and phenotype is complex and multidimensional, offering a rare glimpse of how noise in regulatory networks can provide opportunity for evolution. PMID:25763575

Autoinhibition and signaling by the switch II motif in the G-protein chaperone of a radical B12 enzyme.

PubMed

Lofgren, Michael; Koutmos, Markos; Banerjee, Ruma

2013-10-25

MeaB is an accessory GTPase protein involved in the assembly, protection, and reactivation of 5'-deoxyadenosyl cobalamin-dependent methylmalonyl-CoA mutase (MCM). Mutations in the human ortholog of MeaB result in methylmalonic aciduria, an inborn error of metabolism. G-proteins typically utilize conserved switch I and II motifs for signaling to effector proteins via conformational changes elicited by nucleotide binding and hydrolysis. Our recent discovery that MeaB utilizes an unusual switch III region for bidirectional signaling with MCM raised questions about the roles of the switch I and II motifs in MeaB. In this study, we addressed the functions of conserved switch II residues by performing alanine-scanning mutagenesis. Our results demonstrate that the GTPase activity of MeaB is autoinhibited by switch II and that this loop is important for coupling nucleotide-sensitive conformational changes in switch III to elicit the multiple chaperone functions of MeaB. Furthermore, we report the structure of MeaB·GDP crystallized in the presence of AlFx(-) to form the putative transition state analog, GDP·AlF4(-). The resulting crystal structure and its comparison with related G-proteins support the conclusion that the catalytic site of MeaB is incomplete in the absence of the GTPase-activating protein MCM and therefore unable to stabilize the transition state analog. Favoring an inactive conformation in the absence of the client MCM protein might represent a strategy for suppressing the intrinsic GTPase activity of MeaB in which the switch II loop plays an important role.

Extreme nonlinear terahertz electro-optics in diamond for ultrafast pulse switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shalaby, Mostafa; Vicario, Carlo; Hauri, Christoph P.

2017-03-01

Polarization switching of picosecond laser pulses is a fundamental concept in signal processing [C. Chen and G. Liu, Annu. Rev. Mater. Sci. 16, 203 (1986); V. R. Almeida et al., Nature 431, 1081 (2004); and A. A. P. Pohl et al., Photonics Sens. 3, 1 (2013)]. Conventional switching devices rely on the electro-optical Pockels effect and work at radio frequencies. The ensuing gating time of several nanoseconds is a bottleneck for faster switches which is set by the performance of state-of-the-art high-voltage electronics. Here we show that by substituting the electric field of several kV/cm provided by modern electronics by the MV/cm field of a single-cycle THz laser pulse, the electro-optical gating process can be driven orders of magnitude faster, at THz frequencies. In this context, we introduce diamond as an exceptional electro-optical material and demonstrate a pulse gating time as fast as 100 fs using sub-cycle THz-induced Kerr nonlinearity. We show that THz-induced switching in the insulator diamond is fully governed by the THz pulse shape. The presented THz-based electro-optical approach overcomes the bandwidth and switching speed limits of conventional MHz/GHz electronics and establishes the ultrafast electro-optical gating technology for the first time in the THz frequency range. We finally show that the presented THz polarization gating technique is applicable for advanced beam diagnostics. As a first example, we demonstrate tomographic reconstruction of a THz pulse in three dimensions.

Souvenaid reduces behavioral deficits and improves social cognition skills in frontotemporal dementia: a proof-of-concept study.

PubMed

Pardini, Matteo; Serrati, Carlo; Guida, Silvia; Mattei, Chiara; Abate, Lucia; Massucco, Davide; Sassos, Davide; Amore, Mario; Krueger, Frank; Cocito, Leonardo; Emberti Gialloreti, Leonardo

2015-01-01

Souvenaid™ is a nutraceutical compound thought to positively enhance synaptic function. In line with this mechanism of action, Souvenaid™ has been shown to improve cognitive function in subjects with mild Alzheimer's disease in randomized clinical trials. To date, however, the potential of Souvenaid™ to improve cognitive functioning in subjects with other neurodegenerative conditions also characterized by synaptic loss has not been explored. To evaluate the impact of Souvenaid™ on executive functions, social cognition and behavioral disturbances in subjects with the behavioral variant of frontotemporal dementia (bv-FTD). Twenty-six subjects with bv-FTD were enrolled in the study and randomized to Souvenaid™ (125 ml/day) or placebo groups. After 12 weeks, subjects were switched between the two groups. All subjects, blinded to treatment, underwent clinical and cognitive evaluations at enrollment, after 12 weeks and after 24 weeks. Treatment with Souvenaid™ was associated with a significant reduction of behavioral symptoms and an increase in Theory of Mind skills compared to placebo, which both returned to baseline when Souvenaid™ was discontinued. Souvenaid™ did not have an effect on executive functions. Our results provide evidence of the potential of Souvenaid™ therapy for the treatment of behavioral disturbances and social cognition skills in FTD. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

On the size-dependent magnetism and all-optical magnetization switching of transition-metal silicide nanostructures

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Glushkov, G. I.; Tuchin, A. V.; Popov, S. V.

Theoretical investigations of the electronic structure, synthesis, and all-optical magnetization switching of transition-metal silicide nanostructures are reported. The magnetic moment of the nanostructures is studied as a function of the silicide cluster size and configuration. The experimentally demonstrated magnetization switching of nanostructured nickel silicide by circularly polarized light makes it possible to create high-speed storage devices with high density data recording.

Nonvolatile Ionic Two-Terminal Memory Device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, Roger M.

1990-01-01

Conceptual solid-state memory device nonvolatile and erasable and has only two terminals. Proposed device based on two effects: thermal phase transition and reversible intercalation of ions. Transfer of sodium ions between source of ions and electrical switching element increases or decreases electrical conductance of element, turning switch "on" or "off". Used in digital computers and neural-network computers. In neural networks, many small, densely packed switches function as erasable, nonvolatile synaptic elements.

Thiol-Based Redox Switches and Gene Regulation

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Abstract Cysteine is notable among the universal, proteinogenic amino acids for its facile redox chemistry. Cysteine thiolates are readily modified by reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive electrophilic species (RES), and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Although thiol switches are commonly triggered by disulfide bond formation, they can also be controlled by S-thiolation, S-alkylation, or modification by RNS. Thiol-based switches are common in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms and activate functions that detoxify reactive species and restore thiol homeostasis while repressing functions that would be deleterious if expressed under oxidizing conditions. Here, we provide an overview of the best-understood examples of thiol-based redox switches that affect gene expression. Intra- or intermolecular disulfide bond formation serves as a direct regulatory switch for several bacterial transcription factors (OxyR, OhrR/2-Cys, Spx, YodB, CrtJ, and CprK) and indirectly regulates others (the RsrA anti-σ factor and RegB sensory histidine kinase). In eukaryotes, thiol-based switches control the yeast Yap1p transcription factor, the Nrf2/Keap1 electrophile and oxidative stress response, and the Chlamydomonas NAB1 translational repressor. Collectively, these regulators reveal a remarkable range of chemical modifications exploited by Cys residues to effect changes in gene expression. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 14, 1049—1063. PMID:20626317

Experimental Results from a Laser-Triggered, Gas-Insulated, Spark-Gap Switch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Camacho, J. F.; Ruden, E. L.; Domonkos, M. T.

2017-10-01

We are performing experiments on a laser-triggered spark-gap switch with the goal of studying the transition from photoionization to current conduction. The discharge of current through the switch is triggered by a focused 532-nm wavelength beam from a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser with a pulse duration of about 10 ns. The trigger pulse is delivered along the longitudinal axis of the switch, and the focal spot can be placed anywhere along the axis of the 5-mm, gas-insulated gap between the switch electrodes. The switch test bed is designed to support a variety of working gases (e.g., Ar, N2) over a range of pressures. Electrical and optical diagnostics are used to measure switch performance as a function of parameters such as charge voltage, trigger pulse energy, insulating gas pressure, and gas species. A Mach-Zehnder imaging interferometer system operating at 532 nm is being used to obtain interferograms of the discharge plasma in the switch. We are also developing a 1064-nm interferometry diagnostic in an attempt to measure plasma free electron and neutral gas density profiles simultaneously within the switch gap. Results from our most recent experiments will be presented.

Wavelength selective switch array employing silica-based waveguide frontend with integrated polarization diversity optics.

PubMed

Sakamaki, Yohei; Shikama, Kota; Ikuma, Yuichiro; Suzuki, Kenya

2017-08-21

We propose a waveguide frontend with integrated polarization diversity optics for a wavelength selective switch (WSS) array with a liquid crystal on silicon switching engine to simplify the free space optics configuration and the alignment process in optical modules. The polarization diversity function is realized by the integration of a waveguide-type polarization beam splitter and a polarization rotating half-wave plate in a beam launcher using silica-based planar lightwave circuit technology. We confirmed experimentally the feasibility of using our proposed waveguide frontend in a two-in-one 1 × 20 WSS. The experimental results show that the fabricated waveguide frontend provides a polarization diversity function without any degradation in optical performance.

A trend study of self-concept and mathematics achievement in a cross-cultural context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Jianjun

2007-12-01

The TIMSS 1995, 1999, and 2003 data have been gathered from Hong Kong before and after its sovereignty switch from the United Kingdom to China in 1997. Built on a reciprocal relation theory from the research literature, this investigation is designed to examine models of student self-concept and mathematics achievement during the political transition. Along with a perceived `brain drain' from the population migration, there was a non-monotonic change in the reciprocal relationship between self-concept and mathematics achievement. In addition, indicators of mathematics achievement and self-concept have demonstrated different linkages to the permanent emigration of Hong Kong residents with valued or desirable skills and qualifications. Interpretation of these empirical findings entails a need of enhancing cross-cultural understanding in mathematics education.

A Collective Study on Modeling and Simulation of Resistive Random Access Memory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panda, Debashis; Sahu, Paritosh Piyush; Tseng, Tseung Yuen

2018-01-01

In this work, we provide a comprehensive discussion on the various models proposed for the design and description of resistive random access memory (RRAM), being a nascent technology is heavily reliant on accurate models to develop efficient working designs and standardize its implementation across devices. This review provides detailed information regarding the various physical methodologies considered for developing models for RRAM devices. It covers all the important models reported till now and elucidates their features and limitations. Various additional effects and anomalies arising from memristive system have been addressed, and the solutions provided by the models to these problems have been shown as well. All the fundamental concepts of RRAM model development such as device operation, switching dynamics, and current-voltage relationships are covered in detail in this work. Popular models proposed by Chua, HP Labs, Yakopcic, TEAM, Stanford/ASU, Ielmini, Berco-Tseng, and many others have been compared and analyzed extensively on various parameters. The working and implementations of the window functions like Joglekar, Biolek, Prodromakis, etc. has been presented and compared as well. New well-defined modeling concepts have been discussed which increase the applicability and accuracy of the models. The use of these concepts brings forth several improvements in the existing models, which have been enumerated in this work. Following the template presented, highly accurate models would be developed which will vastly help future model developers and the modeling community.

Switching to a 10-day Mediterranean-style diet improves mood and cardiovascular function in a controlled crossover study.

PubMed

Lee, Jaime; Pase, Matthew; Pipingas, Andrew; Raubenheimer, Jessica; Thurgood, Madeline; Villalon, Lorena; Macpherson, Helen; Gibbs, Amy; Scholey, Andrew

2015-05-01

Even short-term adherence to a Mediterranean-style diet may benefit aspects of psychological functioning. The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of switching to a 10-d Mediterranean-style diet on mood, cognition, and cardiovascular measures. Using a crossover design, 24 women were randomly assigned to either the diet change (where they switched to a Mediterranean-style diet) or no diet change (normal diet) condition for 10 days before switching to the other condition for the same duration. Mood, cognition, and cardiovascular measures of blood pressure, blood flow velocity, and arterial stiffness were assessed at baseline and at the completion of the two diets (days 11 and 22). Independent of whether the Mediterranean-style diet was undertaken before or after the crossover, it was associated with significantly elevated contentment and alertness, and significantly reduced confusion. Additionally, aspects of cognition, such as memory recall, improved significantly as a result of switching to the Mediterranean-style diet. Regarding cardiovascular measures, there was a significant reduction in augmentation pressure associated with the Mediterranean-style diet intervention, but blood flow velocity through the common carotid artery did not change. This Mediterranean-style diet has the potential to enhance aspects of mood, cognition, and cardiovascular function in a young, healthy adult sample. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Monitoring supports performance in a dual-task paradigm involving a risky decision-making task and a working memory task

PubMed Central

Gathmann, Bettina; Schiebener, Johannes; Wolf, Oliver T.; Brand, Matthias

2015-01-01

Performing two cognitively demanding tasks at the same time is known to decrease performance. The current study investigates the underlying executive functions of a dual-tasking situation involving the simultaneous performance of decision making under explicit risk and a working memory task. It is suggested that making a decision and performing a working memory task at the same time should particularly require monitoring—an executive control process supervising behavior and the state of processing on two tasks. To test the role of a supervisory/monitoring function in such a dual-tasking situation we investigated 122 participants with the Game of Dice Task plus 2-back task (GDT plus 2-back task). This dual task requires participants to make decisions under risk and to perform a 2-back working memory task at the same time. Furthermore, a task measuring a set of several executive functions gathered in the term concept formation (Modified Card Sorting Test, MCST) and the newly developed Balanced Switching Task (BST), measuring monitoring in particular, were used. The results demonstrate that concept formation and monitoring are involved in the simultaneous performance of decision making under risk and a working memory task. In particular, the mediation analysis revealed that BST performance partially mediates the influence of MCST performance on the GDT plus 2-back task. These findings suggest that monitoring is one important subfunction for superior performance in a dual-tasking situation including decision making under risk and a working memory task. PMID:25741308

Aging and Executive Functioning: A Training Study on Focus-Switching

PubMed Central

Dorbath, Lara; Hasselhorn, Marcus; Titz, Cora

2011-01-01

Many studies suggest that age differences in a variety of cognitive tasks are due to age-related changes in executive control processes. However, not all executive control processes seem to be age-sensitive. Recently, Verhaeghen et al. (2005) described dissociable age effects in an executive control process responsible for the switching of representations between different functional units of working memory. This so called focus-switching process has two components: (1) the switching of representations from an activated part of long-term memory into a region of immediate access (focus of attention) and (2) the maintenance of representations outside the focus of attention. Age-related deficits occurred in maintaining representations outside the focus of attention, but were absent in switching representations into and out of the focus of attention (e.g., Dorbath and Titz, 2011). In the present study we applied a training approach to examine age-related differences in the trainability of maintenance and switching. We investigated 85 younger (age 19–35, M = 24.07, SD = 3.79) and 91 older (age 59–80, M = 66.27, SD = 4.75) adults using a continuous counting task in a pretest–training–posttest design. The participants were assigned to one of four training conditions differing in the demand to switch or to maintain. The results suggest the influence of training in both components of focus-switching for both, younger and older adults. However, age differences in the amount of training gains were observed. With respect to maintenance the results indicate a compensatory effect of training for older adults who improved their performance to the level of younger adults. With respect to switching, younger adults benefited more from training than older adults. Trainability is thus reduced in older adults with respect to switching, but not for maintenance. PMID:22016742

Evolutionary Technique for Automated Synthesis of Electronic Circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stoica, Adrian (Inventor); Salazar-Lazaro, Carlos Harold (Inventor)

2003-01-01

A method for evolving a circuit comprising configuring a plurality of transistors using a plurality of reconfigurable switches so that each of the plurality of transistors has a terminal coupled to a terminal of another of the plurality of transistors that is controllable by a single reconfigurable switch. The plurality of reconfigurable switches being controlled in response to a chromosome pattern. The plurality of reconfigurable switches may be controlled using an annealing function. As such, the plurality of reconfigurable switches may be controlled by selecting qualitative values for the plurality of reconfigurable switches in response to the chromosomal pattern, selecting initial quantitative values for the selected qualitative values, and morphing the initial quantitative values. Typically, subsequent quantitative values will be selected more divergent than the initial quantitative values. The morphing process may continue to partially or to completely polarize the quantitative values.

Time- and frequency-resolved measurements of frequency modulation and switching of a tunable semiconductor laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuznetsov, M.; Stone, J.; Stulz, L. W.

1991-11-01

We report measurements of intensity as a function of both time and frequency for frequency modulation and switching of a tunable semiconductor laser. Because of the uncertainty principle limitations, the measured time-frequency signal can have a complex structure and does not show the simple-minded picture of a laser spectrum whose center frequency varies in time. The observations are explained by a theory of the time-dependent spectral measurements, well known in the field of speech analysis. We discuss implications for channel switching speed and channel interference in switched, frequency-multiplexed optical networks.

A halochromic stimuli-responsive reversible fluorescence switching 3, 4, 9, 10-perylene tetracarboxylic acid dye for fabricating rewritable platform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hariharan, P. S.; Pitchaimani, J.; Madhu, Vedichi; Anthony, Savarimuthu Philip

2017-02-01

3, 4, 9, 10-perylene tetracarboxylic acid (PTCA), a strongly fluorescent water soluble dye with halochromic functionality showed pH dependent reversible fluorescence switching. The strong fluorescence of PTCA (Φf = 0.67) in basic medium was completely quenched upon acidification. The fluorescent PTCA has been transferred on to a solid substrate (filter paper and glass plate) that also showed reversible off-on fluorescence switching by acid/base and drying/water vapor exposure. The reversible fluorescence switching of PTCA could be of potential interest for fabricating rewritable fluorescent medium.

Heterodiazocines: Synthesis and Photochromic Properties, Trans to Cis Switching within the Bio-optical Window.

PubMed

Hammerich, Melanie; Schütt, Christian; Stähler, Cosima; Lentes, Pascal; Röhricht, Fynn; Höppner, Ronja; Herges, Rainer

2016-10-04

Diazocines, bridged azobenzenes, exhibit superior photophysical properties compared to parent azobenzenes such as high switching efficiencies, quantum yields, and particularly switching wavelengths in the visible range. Synthesis, however, proceeds with low yields, and derivatives are difficult to prepare. We now present two heterodiazocines which are easier to synthesize, and the general procedures should also provide facile access to derivatives. Moreover, both compounds can be switched with light in the far-red (650 nm). Accessibility and photophysical properties make them ideal candidates for applications such as photoswitchable drugs and functional materials.

Genesis Sample Return Capsule Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Willcockson, Bill

2005-01-01

I. Simple Entry Capsule Concept: a) Spin-Stabilized/No Active Control Systems; b) Ballistic Entry for 11.04 km/sec Velocity; c) No Heatshield Separation During Entry; d) Parachute Deploy via g-Switch + Timer. II. Stardust Design Inheritance a) Forebody Shape; b) Seal Concepts; c) Parachute Deploy Control; d) Utah Landing Site (UTTR). III. TPS Systems a) Heatshield - Carbon-Carbon - First Planetary Entry; b) Backshell - SLA-561V - Flight Heritage from Pathfinder, MER; d) Forebody Structural Penetrations Aerothermal and TPS Design Process has the Same Methodology as Used for Pathfinder, MER Flight Vehicles.

Light-Gated Memristor with Integrated Logic and Memory Functions.

PubMed

Tan, Hongwei; Liu, Gang; Yang, Huali; Yi, Xiaohui; Pan, Liang; Shang, Jie; Long, Shibing; Liu, Ming; Wu, Yihong; Li, Run-Wei

2017-11-28

Memristive devices are able to store and process information, which offers several key advantages over the transistor-based architectures. However, most of the two-terminal memristive devices have fixed functions once made and cannot be reconfigured for other situations. Here, we propose and demonstrate a memristive device "memlogic" (memory logic) as a nonvolatile switch of logic operations integrated with memory function in a single light-gated memristor. Based on nonvolatile light-modulated memristive switching behavior, a single memlogic cell is able to achieve optical and electrical mixed basic Boolean logic of reconfigurable "AND", "OR", and "NOT" operations. Furthermore, the single memlogic cell is also capable of functioning as an optical adder and digital-to-analog converter. All the memlogic outputs are memristive for in situ data storage due to the nonvolatile resistive switching and persistent photoconductivity effects. Thus, as a memdevice, the memlogic has potential for not only simplifying the programmable logic circuits but also building memristive multifunctional optoelectronics.

Planning assistance for the 30/20 GHz program, volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Al-Kinani, G.; Frankfort, M.; Kaushal, D.; Markham, R.; Siperko, C.; Wall, M.

1981-01-01

In the baseline concept development the communications payload on Flight 1 was specified to consist of on-board trunking and emergency communications systems (ECS). On Flight 2 the communications payloads consisted of trunking and CPS on-board systems, the CPS capability replacing the Flight 1 ECS. No restriction was placed on the launch vehicle size. Constraints placed on multiple concept development effort were that launch vehicle size for Concept 1 was restricted to SUSS-D and for Concept 2 a SUSS-A. The design concept development was based on satisfying the baseline requirements set forth in the SOW for a single demonstration flight system. Key constraints on contractors were cost and launch vehicle size. Five major areas of new technology development were reviewed: (1) 30 GHz low noise receivers; (2) 20 GHz Power Amplifiers; (3) SS-TDMA switch; (4) Baseband Processor; (5) Multibeam Antennas.

Packet telemetry and packet telecommand - The new generation of spacecraft data handling techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hooke, A. J.

1983-01-01

Because of rising costs and reduced reliability of spacecraft and ground network hardware and software customization, standardization Packet Telemetry and Packet Telecommand concepts are emerging as viable alternatives. Autonomous packets of data, within each concept, which are created within ground and space application processes through the use of formatting techniques, are switched end-to-end through the space data network to their destination application processes through the use of standard transfer protocols. This process may result in facilitating a high degree of automation and interoperability because of completely mission-independent-designed intermediate data networks. The adoption of an international guideline for future space telemetry formatting of the Packet Telemetry concept, and the advancement of the NASA-ESA Working Group's Packet Telecommand concept to a level of maturity parallel to the of Packet Telemetry are the goals of the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems. Both the Packet Telemetry and Packet Telecommand concepts are reviewed.

User’s Guide for COMBIMAN Programs (COMputerized BIomechanical MAN-Model). Version 4.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-01-01

103 2.2.23 STATE SWITCH Function (PFK29) 105 2.2.24 RESTART PROGRAM Function (PFK30) 110 2.2.25 END PROGRAM Function (PFK31) il 2.3 EXECUTING THE JOB...108 40 Transformation Equation Developed for Positioning Stomach Link (Set State Switch 72 ON) 109 41 JOB CONTROL CARDS to Execute CBM04. 114 42...154 50b Program CBMAM Survey Member Dimension Definition Cards. 154 51 Example of Survey, or Type 1, Member. 155 52 Job Control Cards to Execute CBMAM

All optical controlled photonic integrated circuits using azo dye functionized sol-gel material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ke, Xianjun

The main focus of this dissertation is development and characterization of all-optical controllable azo dye functionized sol gel material, demonstrating a PIC fabrication technique on glass substrate using such material, and exploration and feasibility demonstration of three PIC functional devices namely optical variable attenuator, optical switches, and optical tunable filters using the material. The realization of all the devices in this dissertation are based on one material: dye functionalized sol-gel material. A photochromic sol-gel material functionalized with azo dye was synthesized and characterized. It possesses a photochromic characteristic under the control of green laser beam illumination. The material characteristics suggest the possibility of a new promising material platform candidate for the fabrication of alloptical controlled photonic integrated circuits. As the first potential application of the dye functionalized sol-gel material, an alloptical variable attenuator was designed and demonstrated. The optical variable attenuation is achieved in Mach-Zehnder interferometric configuration through all-optical modulation of sol-gel waveguide phase shifters. A 2 x 2 optical switch based on multimode interference (MMI) waveguide structure is proposed in the dissertation. The schematic configuration of the optical switch consists of a cascade of two identical MMIs with two all-optical controlled phase shifters realized by using the photochromic sol-gel material. The cross or bar switch state of the optical switch is determined by the phase difference between the two sol-gel waveguide phase shifters. An all-optical tunable filter is designed and its feasibility demonstrated by using the sol-gel photochromic material. Except for the phase change demonstrated on sol-gel waveguide phase shifters, dynamic gratings were observed on sol-gel film when exposed to two interference beams. This reveals the possibility of realizing Bragg grating-based tunable filters. The schematic configuration of proposed tunable filters consists of a single straight waveguide embedded with a sol-gel waveguide. The wavelength tuning of the tunable filters is accomplished by varying the grating period.

Pressure-induced switching in ferroelectrics: Phase-field modeling, electrochemistry, flexoelectric effect, and bulk vacancy dynamics

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cao, Ye; Morozovska, Anna; Kalinin, Sergei V.

Pressure-induced polarization switching in ferroelectric thin films has emerged as a powerful method for domain patterning, allowing us to create predefined domain patterns on free surfaces and under thin conductive top electrodes. However, the mechanisms for pressure-induced polarization switching in ferroelectrics remain highly controversial, with flexoelectricity, polarization rotation and suppression, and bulk and surface electrochemical processes all being potentially relevant. Here we classify possible pressure-induced switching mechanisms, perform elementary estimates, and study in depth using phase-field modeling. Finally, we show that magnitudes of these effects are remarkably close and give rise to complex switching diagrams as a function of pressuremore » and film thickness with nontrivial topology or switchable and nonswitchable regions.« less

Pressure-induced switching in ferroelectrics: Phase-field modeling, electrochemistry, flexoelectric effect, and bulk vacancy dynamics

DOE PAGES

Cao, Ye; Morozovska, Anna; Kalinin, Sergei V.

2017-11-01

Pressure-induced polarization switching in ferroelectric thin films has emerged as a powerful method for domain patterning, allowing us to create predefined domain patterns on free surfaces and under thin conductive top electrodes. However, the mechanisms for pressure-induced polarization switching in ferroelectrics remain highly controversial, with flexoelectricity, polarization rotation and suppression, and bulk and surface electrochemical processes all being potentially relevant. Here we classify possible pressure-induced switching mechanisms, perform elementary estimates, and study in depth using phase-field modeling. Finally, we show that magnitudes of these effects are remarkably close and give rise to complex switching diagrams as a function of pressuremore » and film thickness with nontrivial topology or switchable and nonswitchable regions.« less

Low-power, 2 x 2 silicon electro-optic switch with 110-nm bandwidth for broadband reconfigurable optical networks.

PubMed

Van Campenhout, Joris; Green, William M J; Assefa, Solomon; Vlasov, Yurii A

2009-12-21

We present an ultra-broadband Mach-Zehnder based optical switch in silicon, electrically driven through carrier injection. Crosstalk levels lower than -17 dB are obtained for both the 'on' and 'off' switching states over an optical bandwidth of 110 nm, owing to the implementation of broadband 50% couplers. Full 2 x 2 switching functionality is demonstrated, with low power consumption (approximately 3 mW) and a fast switching time (< 4 ns). The utilization of standard CMOS metallization results in a low drive voltage (approximately 1 V) and a record-low V(pi)L (approximately 0.06 V x mm). The wide optical bandwidth is maintained for temperature variations up to 30 K.

Switching LPV Control for High Performance Tactical Aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lu, Bei; Wu, Fen; Kim, SungWan

2004-01-01

This paper examines a switching Linear Parameter-Varying (LPV) control approach to determine if it is practical to use for flight control designs within a wide angle of attack region. The approach is based on multiple parameter-dependent Lyapunov functions. The full parameter space is partitioned into overlapping subspaces and a family of LPV controllers are designed, each suitable for a specific parameter subspace. The hysteresis switching logic is used to accomplish the transition among different parameter subspaces. The proposed switching LPV control scheme is applied to an F-16 aircraft model with different actuator dynamics in low and high angle of attack regions. The nonlinear simulation results show that the aircraft performs well when switching among different angle of attack regions.

Steering of quantum waves: Demonstration of Y-junction transistors using InAs quantum wires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, Gregory M.; Qin, Jie; Yang, Chia-Hung; Yang, Ming-Jey

2005-06-01

In this paper we demonstrate using an InAs quantum wire Y-branch switch that the electron wave can be switched to exit from the two drains by a lateral gate bias. The gating modifies the electron wave functions as well as their interference pattern, causing the anti-correlated, oscillatory transconductances. Our result suggests a new transistor function in a multiple-lead ballistic quantum wire system.

Rational Design of an Ultrasensitive Quorum-Sensing Switch.

PubMed

Zeng, Weiqian; Du, Pei; Lou, Qiuli; Wu, Lili; Zhang, Haoqian M; Lou, Chunbo; Wang, Hongli; Ouyang, Qi

2017-08-18

One of the purposes of synthetic biology is to develop rational methods that accelerate the design of genetic circuits, saving time and effort spent on experiments and providing reliably predictable circuit performance. We applied a reverse engineering approach to design an ultrasensitive transcriptional quorum-sensing switch. We want to explore how systems biology can guide synthetic biology in the choice of specific DNA sequences and their regulatory relations to achieve a targeted function. The workflow comprises network enumeration that achieves the target function robustly, experimental restriction of the obtained candidate networks, global parameter optimization via mathematical analysis, selection and engineering of parts based on these calculations, and finally, circuit construction based on the principles of standardization and modularization. The performance of realized quorum-sensing switches was in good qualitative agreement with the computational predictions. This study provides practical principles for the rational design of genetic circuits with targeted functions.

Negative differential resistance and switch behavior of T-BxNy (x, y = 5, 6, 11) molecular junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Shi-Liang; Yang, Chuan-Lu; Wang, Mei-Shan; Ma, Xiao-Guang; Xin, Jian-Guo

2017-05-01

The electronic transport properties of T-BxNy (x, y = 5, 6, 11) molecular junction are investigated based on first-principle density functional theory and non-equilibrium Green's function method. Strong negative differential resistance (NDR) behavior is observed for T-B5N6 molecule under negative and positive bias voltages, with an obvious switch effect for T-B6N5. However, only small NDR is shown for the complex of the two molecules. The projected device density of states, the spatial distribution of molecular orbitals, and the effect of transmission spectra under various bias voltages on the electronic transport properties are analyzed. The obvious effect of bias voltage on the changes in the electronic distribution of frontier molecular orbitals is responsible for the NDR or switch behavior. Therefore, different functional molecular devices can be obtained with different structures of T-BxNy.

Fully integrated Q-switch for commercial high-power resonator with solitary XLMA-fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lange, R.; Bachert, C.; Rehmann, G.; Weber, H.; Luxen, R.; Enns, H.; Schenk, M.; Hosdorf, S.; Marfels, S.; Bay, M.; Kösters, A.; Krause, V.; Giesberts, M.; Fitzau, O.; Hoffmann, H.-D.

2018-02-01

In surface processing applications the correlation of laser power to processing speed demands a further enhancement of the performance of short-pulsed laser sources with respect to the investment costs. The frequently applied concept of master oscillator power amplifier relies on a complex structure, parts of which are highly sensitive to back reflected amplified radiation. Aiming for a simpler, robust source using only a single ytterbium doped XLMA fiber in a q-switched resonator appears as promising design approach eliminating the need for subsequent amplification. This concept requires a high power-tolerant resonator which is provided by the multikilowatt laser platform of Laserline including directly water-cooled active fiber thermal management. Laserline GmbH and Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology joined their forces1 to upgrade standard high power laser sources for short-pulsed operation exceeding 1 kW of average power. Therefor a compact, modular qswitch has been developed. In this paper the implementation of a polarization independent q-switch into an off-the-shelf multi-kilowatt diodepumped continuous wave fiber source is shown. In this early step of implementation we demonstrated more than 1000 W of average power at pulse lengths below 50 ns FWHM and 7.5 mJ pulse energy. The M2 corresponds to 9.5. Reliability of the system is demonstrated based on measurements including temperature and stability records. We investigated the variation possibilities concerning pulse parameters and shape as well as upcoming challenges in power up-scaling.

Developing the Persian version of the homophone meaning generation test

PubMed Central

Ebrahimipour, Mona; Motamed, Mohammad Reza; Ashayeri, Hassan; Modarresi, Yahya; Kamali, Mohammad

2016-01-01

Background: Finding the right word is a necessity in communication, and its evaluation has always been a challenging clinical issue, suggesting the need for valid and reliable measurements. The Homophone Meaning Generation Test (HMGT) can measure the ability to switch between verbal concepts, which is required in word retrieval. The purpose of this study was to adapt and validate the Persian version of the HMGT. Methods: The first phase involved the adaptation of the HMGT to the Persian language. The second phase concerned the psychometric testing. The word-finding performance was assessed in 90 Persian-speaking healthy individuals (20-50 year old; 45 males and 45 females) through three naming tasks: Semantic Fluency, Phonemic Fluency, and Homophone Meaning Generation Test. The participants had no history of neurological or psychiatric diseases, alcohol abuse, severe depression, or history of speech, language, or learning problems. Results: The internal consistency coefficient was larger than 0.8 for all the items with a total Cronbach’s alpha of 0.80. Interrater and intrarater reliability were also excellent. The validity of all items was above 0.77, and the content validity index (0.99) was appropriate. The Persian HMGT had strong convergent validity with semantic and phonemic switching and adequate divergent validity with semantic and phonemic clustering. Conclusion: The Persian version of the Homophone Meaning Generation Test is an appropriate, valid, and reliable test to evaluate the ability to switch between verbal concepts in the assessment of word-finding performance. PMID:27390705

Developing the Persian version of the homophone meaning generation test.

PubMed

Ebrahimipour, Mona; Motamed, Mohammad Reza; Ashayeri, Hassan; Modarresi, Yahya; Kamali, Mohammad

2016-01-01

Finding the right word is a necessity in communication, and its evaluation has always been a challenging clinical issue, suggesting the need for valid and reliable measurements. The Homophone Meaning Generation Test (HMGT) can measure the ability to switch between verbal concepts, which is required in word retrieval. The purpose of this study was to adapt and validate the Persian version of the HMGT. The first phase involved the adaptation of the HMGT to the Persian language. The second phase concerned the psychometric testing. The word-finding performance was assessed in 90 Persian-speaking healthy individuals (20-50 year old; 45 males and 45 females) through three naming tasks: Semantic Fluency, Phonemic Fluency, and Homophone Meaning Generation Test. The participants had no history of neurological or psychiatric diseases, alcohol abuse, severe depression, or history of speech, language, or learning problems. The internal consistency coefficient was larger than 0.8 for all the items with a total Cronbach's alpha of 0.80. Interrater and intrarater reliability were also excellent. The validity of all items was above 0.77, and the content validity index (0.99) was appropriate. The Persian HMGT had strong convergent validity with semantic and phonemic switching and adequate divergent validity with semantic and phonemic clustering. The Persian version of the Homophone Meaning Generation Test is an appropriate, valid, and reliable test to evaluate the ability to switch between verbal concepts in the assessment of word-finding performance.

THE EVOLUTION OF BET-HEDGING ADAPTATIONS TO RARE SCENARIOS

PubMed Central

King, Oliver D.

2007-01-01

When faced with a variable environment, organisms may switch between different strategies according to some probabilistic rule. In an infinite population, evolution is expected to favor the rule that maximizes geometric mean fitness. If some environments are encountered only rarely, selection may not be strong enough for optimal switching probabilities to evolve. Here we calculate the evolution of switching probabilities in a finite population by analyzing fixation probabilities of alleles specifying switching rules. We calculate the conditions required for the evolution of phenotypic switching as a form of bet-hedging as a function of the population size N, the rateθ at which a rare environment is encountered, and the selective advantage s associated with switching in the rare environment. We consider a simplified model in which environmental switching and phenotypic switching are one-way processes, and mutation is symmetric and rare with respect to the timescale of fixation events. In this case, the approximate requirements for bet-hedging to be favored by a ratio of at least R are that sN > log(R) and θN>R. PMID:17915273

The Strength of an Ig Switch Region is Determined by its Ability to Drive R-loop Formation and its Number of WGCW Sites

PubMed Central

Zhang, Zheng Z.; Pannunzio, Nicholas R.; Han, Li; Hsieh, Chih-Lin; Yu, Kefei; Lieber, Michael R.

2014-01-01

SUMMARY R-loops exist at the murine IgH switch regions and possibly other locations, but their functional importance is unclear. In biochemical systems, R-loop initiation requires DNA sequence regions containing clusters of G nucleotides, but cellular studies have not been done. Here, we vary the G-clustering, total switch region length, and the number of target sites (WGCW sites for the activation-induced deaminase) at synthetic switch regions in a murine B cell line to determine the effect on class switch recombination (CSR). G-clusters increase CSR, regardless of their immediate proximity to the WGCW sites. This increase is accompanied by an increase in R-loop formation. CSR efficiency correlates better with the absolute number of WGCW sites in the switch region rather than the total switch region length or density of WGCW sites. Thus, the overall strength of the switch region depends on G-clusters, which initiate R-loop formation, and on the number of WGCW sites. PMID:25017067

Three layers multi-granularity OCDM switching system based on learning-stateful PCE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yubao; Liu, Yanfei; Sun, Hao

2017-10-01

In the existing three layers multi-granularity OCDM switching system (TLMG-OCDMSS), F-LSP, L-LSP and OC-LSP can be bundled as switching granularity. For CPU-intensive network, the node not only needs to compute the path but also needs to bundle the switching granularity so that the load of single node is heavy. The node will paralyze when the traffic of the node is too heavy, which will impact the performance of the whole network seriously. The introduction of stateful PCE(S-PCE) will effectively solve these problems. PCE is composed of two parts, namely, the path computation element and the database (TED and LSPDB), and returns the result of path computation to PCC (path computation clients) after PCC sends the path computation request to it. In this way, the pressure of the distributed path computation in each node is reduced. In this paper, we propose the concept of Learning PCE (L-PCE), which uses the existing LSPDB as the data source of PCE's learning. By this means, we can simplify the path computation and reduce the network delay, as a result, improving the performance of network.

The analysis of a state-switched absorber design concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Albanese, Anne-Marie; Cunefare, Kenneth

2002-11-01

A tuned vibration absorber (TVA) is a spring-damper-mass system used in many industries for the suppression of a specific vibration frequency, and has application for the suppression of aircraft fuselage vibration. A state-switched absorber (SSA) is similar to a TVA, except that one or more components in the SSA is able to instantaneously and discretely change properties, thus increasing the effective bandwidth of vibration suppression. In order to design a replacement SSA for the classic TVA, the SSA must operate in the appropriate frequency range, be lightweight, and compact. An optimal SSA will also have a maximal frequency range between which it can switch. This paper discusses the development of a magnetorheological (MR) silicone gel used as the SSA switching element, the shape required to maintain a magnetic flux path, and the contribution of the magnet-mass to frequency shifting. The MR gel is iron-doped silicone, cured in the presence of a magnetic field. During operation, the applied magnetic flux is modified to change the natural frequency. The applied flux requirement forces the SSA to be a small ring. The SSA is designed to operate below 100 Hz.

Executive Functions Contribute Uniquely to Reading Competence in Minority Youth.

PubMed

Jacobson, Lisa A; Koriakin, Taylor; Lipkin, Paul; Boada, Richard; Frijters, Jan C; Lovett, Maureen W; Hill, Dina; Willcutt, Erik; Gottwald, Stephanie; Wolf, Maryanne; Bosson-Heenan, Joan; Gruen, Jeffrey R; Mahone, E Mark

Competent reading requires various skills beyond those for basic word reading (i.e., core language skills, rapid naming, phonological processing). Contributing "higher-level" or domain-general processes include information processing speed and executive functions (working memory, strategic problem solving, attentional switching). Research in this area has relied on largely Caucasian samples, with limited representation of children from racial or ethnic minority groups. This study examined contributions of executive skills to reading competence in 761 children of minority backgrounds. Hierarchical linear regressions examined unique contributions of executive functions (EF) to word reading, fluency, and comprehension. EF contributed uniquely to reading performance, over and above reading-related language skills; working memory contributed uniquely to all components of reading; while attentional switching, but not problem solving, contributed to isolated and contextual word reading and reading fluency. Problem solving uniquely predicted comprehension, suggesting that this skill may be especially important for reading comprehension in minority youth. Attentional switching may play a unique role in development of reading fluency in minority youth, perhaps as a result of the increased demand for switching between spoken versus written dialects. Findings have implications for educational and clinical practice with regard to reading instruction, remedial reading intervention, and assessment of individuals with reading difficulty.

The Evolution of Phenotypic Switching in Subdivided Populations

PubMed Central

Carja, Oana; Liberman, Uri; Feldman, Marcus W.

2014-01-01

Stochastic switching is an example of phenotypic bet hedging, where offspring can express a phenotype different from that of their parents. Phenotypic switching is well documented in viruses, yeast, and bacteria and has been extensively studied when the selection pressures vary through time. However, there has been little work on the evolution of phenotypic switching under both spatially and temporally fluctuating selection pressures. Here we use a population genetic model to explore the interaction of temporal and spatial variation in determining the evolutionary dynamics of phenotypic switching. We find that the stable switching rate is mainly determined by the rate of environmental change and the migration rate. This stable rate is also a decreasing function of the recombination rate, although this is a weaker effect than those of either the period of environmental change or the migration rate. This study highlights the interplay of spatial and temporal environmental variability, offering new insights into how migration can influence the evolution of phenotypic switching rates, mutation rates, or other sources of phenotypic variation. PMID:24496012

The formation of the light-sensing compartment of cone photoreceptors coincides with a transcriptional switch

PubMed Central

Daum, Janine M; Keles, Özkan; Holwerda, Sjoerd JB; Kohler, Hubertus; Rijli, Filippo M

2017-01-01

High-resolution daylight vision is mediated by cone photoreceptors. The molecular program responsible for the formation of their light sensor, the outer segment, is not well understood. We correlated daily changes in ultrastructure and gene expression in postmitotic mouse cones, between birth and eye opening, using serial block-face electron microscopy (EM) and RNA sequencing. Outer segments appeared rapidly at postnatal day six and their appearance coincided with a switch in gene expression. The switch affected over 14% of all expressed genes. Genes that switched off were rich in transcription factors and neurogenic genes. Those that switched on contained genes relevant for cone function. Chromatin rearrangements in enhancer regions occurred before the switch was completed, but not after. We provide a resource comprised of correlated EM, RNAseq, and ATACseq data, showing that the growth of a key compartment of a postmitotic cell involves an extensive switch in gene expression and chromatin accessibility. PMID:29106373

Impulse commutating circuit with transformer to limit reapplied voltage

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcconville, J. H.

1973-01-01

Silicon controlled rectifier opens circuit with currents flowing up to values of 30 amperes. Switching concept halves both current and voltage in middle of commutating cycle thereby lowering size and weight requirements. Commutating circuit can be turned on or off by command and will remain on in absence of load due to continuous gate.

From Quick Start Teams to Home Teams: The Duke TQM Experience.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lubans, John; Gordon, Heather

This paper describes the Duke University Libraries' transition in early 1994 from its traditional hierarchical model to an organization emphasizing Total Quality Management (TQM) concepts such as self-managing teams and continuous improvement. Existing conditions at the libraries that played a role in the decision to switch included: (1) rising…

School Tenure and Student Achievement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fan, Wen

2017-01-01

While much empirical research concerns job tenure, this paper introduces the concept of school tenure and further examines whether and how school tenure impacts student outcomes using a rich set of cohort data from England's secondary schools. Using the number of times a student switched schools during the academic year as an instrument to measure…

Enhanced Thermo-Optical Switching of Paraffin-Wax Composite Spots under Laser Heating

PubMed Central

Said, Asmaa; Salah, Abeer; Abdel Fattah, Gamal

2017-01-01

Thermo-optical switches are of particular significance in communications networks where increasingly high switching speeds are required. Phase change materials (PCMs), in particular those based on paraffin wax, provide wealth of exciting applications with unusual thermally-induced switching properties, only limited by paraffin’s rather low thermal conductivity. In this paper, the use of different carbon fillers as thermal conductivity enhancers for paraffin has been investigated, and a novel structure based on spot of paraffin wax as a thermo-optic switch is presented. Thermo-optical switching parameters are enhanced with the addition of graphite and graphene, due to the extreme thermal conductivity of the carbon fillers. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) are performed on paraffin wax composites, and specific heat capacities are calculated based on DSC measurements. Thermo-optical switching based on transmission is measured as a function of the host concentration under conventional electric heating and laser heating of paraffin-carbon fillers composites. Further enhancements in thermo-optical switching parameters are studied under Nd:YAG laser heating. This novel structure can be used in future networks with huge bandwidth requirements and electric noise free remote aerial laser switching applications. PMID:28772884

Enhanced Thermo-Optical Switching of Paraffin-Wax Composite Spots under Laser Heating.

PubMed

Said, Asmaa; Salah, Abeer; Fattah, Gamal Abdel

2017-05-12

Thermo-optical switches are of particular significance in communications networks where increasingly high switching speeds are required. Phase change materials (PCMs), in particular those based on paraffin wax, provide wealth of exciting applications with unusual thermally-induced switching properties, only limited by paraffin's rather low thermal conductivity. In this paper, the use of different carbon fillers as thermal conductivity enhancers for paraffin has been investigated, and a novel structure based on spot of paraffin wax as a thermo-optic switch is presented. Thermo-optical switching parameters are enhanced with the addition of graphite and graphene, due to the extreme thermal conductivity of the carbon fillers. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) are performed on paraffin wax composites, and specific heat capacities are calculated based on DSC measurements. Thermo-optical switching based on transmission is measured as a function of the host concentration under conventional electric heating and laser heating of paraffin-carbon fillers composites. Further enhancements in thermo-optical switching parameters are studied under Nd:YAG laser heating. This novel structure can be used in future networks with huge bandwidth requirements and electric noise free remote aerial laser switching applications.

Functional nanometer-scale structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chan, Tsz On Mario

Nanometer-scale structures have properties that are fundamentally different from their bulk counterparts. Much research effort has been devoted in the past decades to explore new fabrication techniques, model the physical properties of these structures, and construct functional devices. The ability to manipulate and control the structure of matter at the nanoscale has made many new classes of materials available for the study of fundamental physical processes and potential applications. The interplay between fabrication techniques and physical understanding of the nanostructures and processes has revolutionized the physical and material sciences, providing far superior properties in materials for novel applications that benefit society. This thesis consists of two major aspects of my graduate research in nano-scale materials. In the first part (Chapters 3--6), a comprehensive study on the nanostructures based on electrospinning and thermal treatment is presented. Electrospinning is a well-established method for producing high-aspect-ratio fibrous structures, with fiber diameter ranging from 1 nm--1 microm. A polymeric solution is typically used as a precursor in electrospinning. In our study, the functionality of the nanostructure relies on both the nanostructure and material constituents. Metallic ions containing precursors were added to the polymeric precursor following a sol-gel process to prepare the solution suitable for electrospinning. A typical electrospinning process produces as-spun fibers containing both polymer and metallic salt precursors. Subsequent thermal treatments of the as-spun fibers were carried out in various conditions to produce desired structures. In most cases, polymer in the solution and the as-spun fibers acted as a backbone for the structure formation during the subsequent heat treatment, and were thermally removed in the final stage. Polymers were also designed to react with the metallic ion precursors during heat treatment in some cases, which led to desired chemical phase formation. The residue of polymer thermal decomposition was also controlled and utilized for certain functionality in some nanostructures. Throughout this study, we successfully fabricated several novel functional structures and revealed a new formation mechanism of metal/metal oxide nanotubes. The magnetic and electrical properties of these nanostructures were studied and optimized for applications in soft magnetic materials and spintronics devices. In the second part, (Chapter 7) a study on memristive switching devices with magnetron-sputtered metal-semiconductor-metal thin film structures based on ZnO is presented. Resistive random access memory (RRAM) is a new, non-volatile memory based on the memristor effect theoretically predicted by Leon Chua in 1971 and first experimentally demonstrated by Hewlett Packard in 2008. The unit cell of a RRAM (a memristor) is a two-terminal device in which the switching medium is sandwiched between the top and bottom electrodes and the resistance of the switching medium can be modulated by applying an electrical signal (current or voltage) to the electrodes. On the other hand, the significance of a memristor, as the fourth element of circuit elements besides resistor, capacitor and inductor, is not limited to just being a candidate for next-generation memory. Owing to the unique i-v characteristics of non-linear memristors that cannot be duplicated with any combinations of the other three basic elements in a passive circuitry, many new electrical functions are being developed based on the memristors. In our study, various contact electrode combinations and semiconductor doping profiles were utilized to achieve different functional resistive switching behaviors and to help fundamentally understand the underlying switching mechanisms in ZnO-based thin film structures. Two distinctive switching mechanisms (ferroelectric charge-induced resistive switching and dopant-induced filament-type resistive switching) have been identified in specified structures. Among them, the ferroelectric charge induced resistive switching is new to the existing mechanisms; and the crucial role of the electrode oxide layer in the filament type resistive switching was reported for the first time. Based on these studies, a unique structure that is believed to combine the two competing switching mechanisms was demonstrated. The new memory structure acts like a complimentary resistive switching memory (CRS) that is designed to eliminate the cross-talk issue in RRAM.

Network flexibility of the IRIDIUM (R) Global Mobile Satellite System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hutcheson, Jonathan; Laurin, Mala

1995-01-01

The IRIDIUM system is a global personal communications system supported by a constellation of 66 low earth orbit (LEO) satellites and a collection of earth-based 'gateway' switching installations. Like traditional wireless cellular systems, coverage is achieved by a grid of cells in which bandwidth is reused for spectral efficiency. Unlike any cellular system ever built, the moving cells can be shared by multiple switching facilities. Noteworthy features of the IRIDIUM system include inter-satellite links, a GSM-based telephony architecture, and a geographically controlled system access process. These features, working in concert, permit flexible and reliable administration of the worldwide service area by gateway operators. This paper will explore this unique concept.

Functional heterogeneity of conflict, error, task-switching, and unexpectedness effects within medial prefrontal cortex.

PubMed

Nee, Derek Evan; Kastner, Sabine; Brown, Joshua W

2011-01-01

The last decade has seen considerable discussion regarding a theoretical account of medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) function with particular focus on the anterior cingulate cortex. The proposed theories have included conflict detection, error likelihood prediction, volatility monitoring, and several distinct theories of error detection. Arguments for and against particular theories often treat mPFC as functionally homogeneous, or at least nearly so, despite some evidence for distinct functional subregions. Here we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to simultaneously contrast multiple effects of error, conflict, and task-switching that have been individually construed in support of various theories. We found overlapping yet functionally distinct subregions of mPFC, with activations related to dominant error, conflict, and task-switching effects successively found along a rostral-ventral to caudal-dorsal gradient within medial prefrontal cortex. Activations in the rostral cingulate zone (RCZ) were strongly correlated with the unexpectedness of outcomes suggesting a role in outcome prediction and preparing control systems to deal with anticipated outcomes. The results as a whole support a resolution of some ongoing debates in that distinct theories may each pertain to corresponding distinct yet overlapping subregions of mPFC. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Synchronization of Switched Neural Networks With Communication Delays via the Event-Triggered Control.

PubMed

Wen, Shiping; Zeng, Zhigang; Chen, Michael Z Q; Huang, Tingwen

2017-10-01

This paper addresses the issue of synchronization of switched delayed neural networks with communication delays via event-triggered control. For synchronizing coupled switched neural networks, we propose a novel event-triggered control law which could greatly reduce the number of control updates for synchronization tasks of coupled switched neural networks involving embedded microprocessors with limited on-board resources. The control signals are driven by properly defined events, which depend on the measurement errors and current-sampled states. By using a delay system method, a novel model of synchronization error system with delays is proposed with the communication delays and event-triggered control in the unified framework for coupled switched neural networks. The criteria are derived for the event-triggered synchronization analysis and control synthesis of switched neural networks via the Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional method and free weighting matrix approach. A numerical example is elaborated on to illustrate the effectiveness of the derived results.

Automated design of genetic toggle switches with predetermined bistability.

PubMed

Chen, Shuobing; Zhang, Haoqian; Shi, Handuo; Ji, Weiyue; Feng, Jingchen; Gong, Yan; Yang, Zhenglin; Ouyang, Qi

2012-07-20

Synthetic biology aims to rationally construct biological devices with required functionalities. Methods that automate the design of genetic devices without post-hoc adjustment are therefore highly desired. Here we provide a method to predictably design genetic toggle switches with predetermined bistability. To accomplish this task, a biophysical model that links ribosome binding site (RBS) DNA sequence to toggle switch bistability was first developed by integrating a stochastic model with RBS design method. Then, to parametrize the model, a library of genetic toggle switch mutants was experimentally built, followed by establishing the equivalence between RBS DNA sequences and switch bistability. To test this equivalence, RBS nucleotide sequences for different specified bistabilities were in silico designed and experimentally verified. Results show that the deciphered equivalence is highly predictive for the toggle switch design with predetermined bistability. This method can be generalized to quantitative design of other probabilistic genetic devices in synthetic biology.

Sensitivity and Switching Delay in Trigger Circuits; SENSIBILITA E RITARDO ENI CIRCUITI A SCATTO

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

De Lotto, I.; Stanchi, L.

The problem of regeneration in trigger circuits is studied, particularly in relation to switching delay and switching time. The factors that affect the speed, such as the threshold as a function of the input signal duration, are examined. The sensitivity of the circuit is also discussed. The characteristics of the dipole equivalent to a trigger circuit are determined, and the switching delay and switching rise time are examined using considerable simplifications (circuits with constant parameters) and graphical methods. For the particular case of a transistor circuit, the equation of the equivalent circuit is derived taking into account the nonlinearity ofmore » the parameters. This equation is processed by means of an analog computer. Using experimental data, the circuits are classified according to their sensitivity and the switching delay. A merit figure is obtained for synthetically evaluating different circuits and optimizing circuit sensitivity and speed. (auth)« less

A nonlinear plasmonic waveguide based all-optical bidirectional switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bana, Xiaoqiang; Pang, Xingxing; Li, Xiaohui; Hu, Bin; Guo, Yixuan; Zheng, Hairong

2018-01-01

In this paper, an all-optical switching with a nanometer coupled ring resonator is demonstrated based on the nonlinear material. By adjusting the light intensity, we implement the resonance wavelength from 880 nm to 940 nm in the nonlinear material structure monocyclic. In the bidirectional switch structure, the center wavelength (i.e. 880 nm) is fixed. By changing the light intensity from I = 0 to I = 53 . 1 MW /cm2, the function of optical switching can be obtained. The results demonstrate that both the single-ring cavity and the T-shaped double-ring structure can realize the optical switching effect. This work takes advantage of the simple structure. The single-ring cavity plasmonic switches have many advantages, such as nanoscale size, low pumping light intensity, ultrafast response time (femtosecond level), etc. It is expected that the proposed all-optical integrated devices can be potentially applied in optical communication, signal processing, and signal sensing, etc.

Response of discrete linear systems to forcing functions with inequality constraints.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Michalopoulos, C. D.; Riley, T. A.

1972-01-01

An analysis is made of the maximum response of discrete, linear mechanical systems to arbitrary forcing functions which lie within specified bounds. Primary attention is focused on the complete determination of the forcing function which will engender maximum displacement to any particular mass element of a multi-degree-of-freedom system. In general, the desired forcing function is found to be a bang-bang type function, i.e., a function which switches from the maximum to the minimum bound and vice-versa at certain instants of time. Examples of two-degree-of-freedom systems, with and without damping, are presented in detail. Conclusions are drawn concerning the effect of damping on the switching times and the general procedure for finding these times is discussed.

Transient response of multidegree-of-freedom linear systems to forcing functions with inequality constraints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Michalopoulos, C. D.

1974-01-01

Optimal control theory is applied to analyze the transient response of discrete linear systems to forcing functions with unknown time dependence but having known bounds. Particular attention is given to forcing functions which include: (1) maximum displacement of any given mass element, (2) maximum relative displacement of any two adjacent masses, and (3) maximum acceleration of a given mass. Linear mechanical systems with an arbitrary number of degrees of freedom and only one forcing function acting are considered. In the general case, the desired forcing function is found to be a function that switches from the upper-to-lower bound and vice-versa at certain moments of time. A general procedure for finding such switching times is set forth.

Reduced activation in lateral prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate during attention and cognitive control functions in medication-naïve adolescents with depression compared to controls.

PubMed

Halari, Rozmin; Simic, Mima; Pariante, Carmine M; Papadopoulos, Andrew; Cleare, Anthony; Brammer, Michael; Fombonne, Eric; Rubia, Katya

2009-03-01

There is increasing recognition of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adolescence. In adult MDD, abnormalities of fronto-striatal and fronto-cingulate circuitries mediating cognitive control functions have been implicated in the pathogenesis and been related to problems with controlling negative thoughts. No neuroimaging studies of cognitive control functions, however, exist in paediatric depression. This study investigated whether medication-naïve adolescents with MDD show abnormal brain activation of fronto-striatal and fronto-cingulate networks when performing tasks of attentional and cognitive control. Event-related functional magnetic resonance imaging was used to compare brain activation between 21 medication-naïve adolescents with a first-episode of MDD aged 14-17 years and 21 healthy adolescents, matched for handedness, age, sex, demographics and IQ. Activation paradigms were tasks of selective attention (Simon task), attentional switching (Switch task), and motor response inhibition and error detection (Stop task). In all three tasks, adolescents with depression compared to healthy controls demonstrated reduced activation in task-relevant right dorsolateral (DLPFC), inferior prefrontal cortex (IFC) and anterior cingulate gyrus (ACG). Additional areas of relatively reduced activation were in the parietal lobes during the Stop and Switch tasks, putamen, insula and temporal lobes during the Switch task and precuneus during the Simon task. This study shows first evidence that medication-naïve adolescents with MDD are characterised by abnormal function in ACG and right lateral prefrontal cortex during tasks of attention and performance monitoring, suggesting an early pathogenesis of these functional abnormalities attributed to MDD.

Salient measures of inhibition and switching are associated with frontal lobe gray matter volume in healthy middle-aged and older adults.

PubMed

Adólfsdóttir, Steinunn; Haász, Judit; Wehling, Eike; Ystad, Martin; Lundervold, Arvid; Lundervold, Astri J

2014-11-01

To investigate brain-behavior relationships between morphometric brain measures and salient executive function (EF) measures of inhibition and switching. One hundred participants (49-80 years) performed the Color Word Interference Test from the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System (D-KEFS). Salient measures of EF components of inhibition and switching, of which the effect of more fundamental skills were regressed out, were analyzed using linear models and a conditional inference trees analysis taking intercorrelations between predictor variables (brain volumes, age, gender, and education) into account. The conditional inference trees analysis demonstrated a primary role of the middle frontal gyrus (MFG) in explaining variations in the salient EF measure of switching and combined inhibition/switching. Age predicted measures of inhibition. The study highlights the importance of considering fundamental cognitive skills and the use of a statistical method taking possible complex relationships between predictor variables into account when interpreting standard EF test results. Further studies should include MRI measures representing neural networks that may relate to CWIT performance, and longitudinal studies are required to investigate any causal relationships. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved.

Intelligent optical networking with photonic cross connections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ceuppens, L.; Jerphagnon, Olivier L.; Lang, Jonathan; Banerjee, Ayan; Blumenthal, Daniel J.

2002-09-01

Optical amplification and dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) have fundamentally changed optical transport networks. Now that these technologies are widely adopted, the bottleneck has moved from the outside line plant to nodal central offices, where electrical switching equipment has not kept pace. While OEO technology was (and still is) necessary for grooming and traffic aggregation, the transport network has dramatically changed, requiring a dramatic rethinking of how networks need to be designed and operated. While todays transport networks carry remarkable amounts of bandwidth, their optical layer is fundamentally static and provides for only simple point-to-point transport. Efficiently managing the growing number of wavelengths can only be achieved through a new breed of networking element. Photonic switching systems (PSS) can efficiently execute these functions because they are bit rate, wavelength, and protocol transparent. With their all-optical switch cores and interfaces, PSS can switch optical signals at various levels of granularity wavelength, sub band, and composite DWDM fiber levels. Though cross-connect systems with electrical switch cores are available, they perform these functions at very high capital costs and operational inefficiencies. This paper examines enabling technologies for deployment of intelligent optical transport networks (OTN), and takes a practical perspective on survivability architecture migration and implementation issues.

The role of nitrogen doping in ALD Ta2O5 and its influence on multilevel cell switching in RRAM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sedghi, N.; Li, H.; Brunell, I. F.; Dawson, K.; Potter, R. J.; Guo, Y.; Gibbon, J. T.; Dhanak, V. R.; Zhang, W. D.; Zhang, J. F.; Robertson, J.; Hall, S.; Chalker, P. R.

2017-03-01

The role of nitrogen doping on the stability and memory window of resistive state switching in N-doped Ta2O5 deposited by atomic layer deposition is elucidated. Nitrogen incorporation increases the stability of resistive memory states which is attributed to neutralization of electronic defect levels associated with oxygen vacancies. The density functional simulations with the screened exchange hybrid functional approximation show that the incorporation of nitrogen dopant atoms in the oxide network removes the O vacancy midgap defect states, thus nullifying excess defects and eliminating alternative conductive paths. By effectively reducing the density of vacancy-induced defect states through N doping, 3-bit multilevel cell switching is demonstrated, consisting of eight distinctive resistive memory states achieved by either controlling the set current compliance or the maximum voltage during reset. Nitrogen doping has a threefold effect: widening the switching memory window to accommodate the more intermediate states, improving the stability of states, and providing a gradual reset for multi-level cell switching during reset. The N-doped Ta2O5 devices have relatively small set and reset voltages (< 1 V) with reduced variability due to doping.

Atomic switches: atomic-movement-controlled nanodevices for new types of computing

PubMed Central

Hino, Takami; Hasegawa, Tsuyoshi; Terabe, Kazuya; Tsuruoka, Tohru; Nayak, Alpana; Ohno, Takeo; Aono, Masakazu

2011-01-01

Atomic switches are nanoionic devices that control the diffusion of metal cations and their reduction/oxidation processes in the switching operation to form/annihilate a metal atomic bridge, which is a conductive path between two electrodes in the on-state. In contrast to conventional semiconductor devices, atomic switches can provide a highly conductive channel even if their size is of nanometer order. In addition to their small size and low on-resistance, their nonvolatility has enabled the development of new types of programmable devices, which may achieve all the required functions on a single chip. Three-terminal atomic switches have also been developed, in which the formation and annihilation of a metal atomic bridge between a source electrode and a drain electrode are controlled by a third (gate) electrode. Three-terminal atomic switches are expected to enhance the development of new types of logic circuits, such as nonvolatile logic. The recent development of atomic switches that use a metal oxide as the ionic conductive material has enabled the integration of atomic switches with complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) devices, which will facilitate the commercialization of atomic switches. The novel characteristics of atomic switches, such as their learning and photosensing abilities, are also introduced in the latter part of this review. PMID:27877376

Microsecond reconfigurable NxN data-communication switch using DMD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blanche, Pierre-Alexandre; Miles, Alexander; Lynn, Brittany; Wissinger, John; Carothers, Daniel; Norwood, Robert A.; Peyghambarian, Nasser

2014-03-01

We present here the use the DMD as a diffraction-based optical switch, where Fourier diffraction patterns are used to steer the incoming beams to any output configuration. We have implemented a single-mode fiber coupled N X N switch and demonstrated its ability to operate over the entire telecommunication C-band centered at 1550 nm. The all-optical switch was built primarily with off-the-shelf components and a Texas Instruments DLP7000™with an array of 1024 X 768 micromirrors. This DMD is capable of switching 100 times faster than currently available technology (3D MOEMS). The switch is robust to typical failure modes, protocol and bit-rate agnostic, and permits full reconfigurable optical add drop multiplexing (ROADM). The switch demonstrator was inserted into a networking testbed for the majority of the measurements. The testbed assembled under the Center for Integrated Access Networks (ClAN), a National Science Foundation (NSF) Engineering Research Center (ERC), provided an environment in which to simulate and test the data routing functionality of the switch. A Fujitsu Flashwave 9500 PS was used to provide the data signal, which was sent through the switch and received by a second Flashwave node. We successfully transmitted an HD video stream through a switched channel without any measurable data loss.

Optoelectronic switch matrix as a look-up table for residue arithmetic.

PubMed

Macdonald, R I

1987-10-01

The use of optoelectronic matrix switches to perform look-up table functions in residue arithmetic processors is proposed. In this application, switchable detector arrays give the advantage of a greatly reduced requirement for optical sources by comparison with previous optoelectronic residue processors.

Reliable WDM multicast in optical burst-switched networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Myoungki; Qiao, Chunming; Xiong, Yijun

2000-09-01

IN this paper,l we present a reliable WDM (Wavelength-Division Multiplexing) multicast protocol in optical burst-switched (OBS) networks. Since the burst dropping (loss) probability may be potentially high in a heavily loaded OBS backbone network, reliable multicast protocols that have developed for IP networks at the transport (or application) layer may incur heavy overheads such as a large number of duplicate retransmissions. In addition, it may take a longer time for an end host to detect and then recover from burst dropping (loss) occurred at the WDM layer. For efficiency reasons, we propose burst loss recovery within the OBS backbone (i.e., at the WDM link layer). The proposed protocol requires two additional functions to be performed by the WDM switch controller: subcasting and maintaining burst states, when the WDM switch has more than one downstream on the WDM multicast tree. We show that these additional functions are simple to implement and the overhead associated with them is manageable.

Advance Preparation in Task-Switching: Converging Evidence from Behavioral, Brain Activation, and Model-Based Approaches

PubMed Central

Karayanidis, Frini; Jamadar, Sharna; Ruge, Hannes; Phillips, Natalie; Heathcote, Andrew; Forstmann, Birte U.

2010-01-01

Recent research has taken advantage of the temporal and spatial resolution of event-related brain potentials (ERPs) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to identify the time course and neural circuitry of preparatory processes required to switch between different tasks. Here we overview some key findings contributing to understanding strategic processes in advance preparation. Findings from these methodologies are compatible with advance preparation conceptualized as a set of processes activated for both switch and repeat trials, but with substantial variability as a function of individual differences and task requirements. We then highlight new approaches that attempt to capitalize on this variability to link behavior and brain activation patterns. One approach examines correlations among behavioral, ERP and fMRI measures. A second “model-based” approach accounts for differences in preparatory processes by estimating quantitative model parameters that reflect latent psychological processes. We argue that integration of behavioral and neuroscientific methodologies is key to understanding the complex nature of advance preparation in task-switching. PMID:21833196

Effect of different substitution position on the switching behavior in single-molecule device with carbon nanotube electrodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Jingjuan; Han, Xiaoxiao; Yuan, Peipei; Bian, Baoan; Wang, Yixiang

2018-01-01

We investigate the electronic transport properties of dihydroazulene (DHA) and vinylheptafulvene (VHF) molecule sandwiched between two carbon nanotubes using density functional theory and non-equilibrium Green's function. The device displays significantly switching behavior between DHA and VHF isomerizations. It is found the different substitution position of F in the molecule influences the switching ratio of device, which is analyzed by transmission spectra and molecular projected self-consistent Hamiltonian. The observed negative differential resistance effect is explained by transmission spectra and transmission eigenstates of transmission peak in the bias window. The observed reverse of current in VHF form in which two H atoms on the right side of the benzene ring of the molecule are replaced by F is explained by transmission spectra and molecule-electrode coupling with the varied bias. The results suggest that the reasonable substitution position of molecule may improve the switching ratio, displaying a potential application in future molecular circuit.

Adaptive Backstepping-Based Neural Tracking Control for MIMO Nonlinear Switched Systems Subject to Input Delays.

PubMed

Niu, Ben; Li, Lu

2018-06-01

This brief proposes a new neural-network (NN)-based adaptive output tracking control scheme for a class of disturbed multiple-input multiple-output uncertain nonlinear switched systems with input delays. By combining the universal approximation ability of radial basis function NNs and adaptive backstepping recursive design with an improved multiple Lyapunov function (MLF) scheme, a novel adaptive neural output tracking controller design method is presented for the switched system. The feature of the developed design is that different coordinate transformations are adopted to overcome the conservativeness caused by adopting a common coordinate transformation for all subsystems. It is shown that all the variables of the resulting closed-loop system are semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded under a class of switching signals in the presence of MLF and that the system output can follow the desired reference signal. To demonstrate the practicability of the obtained result, an adaptive neural output tracking controller is designed for a mass-spring-damper system.

Satellite ATM Networks: Architectures and Guidelines Developed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

vonDeak, Thomas C.; Yegendu, Ferit

1999-01-01

An important element of satellite-supported asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) networking will involve support for the routing and rerouting of active connections. Work published under the auspices of the Telecommunications Industry Association (http://www.tiaonline.org), describes basic architectures and routing protocol issues for satellite ATM (SATATM) networks. The architectures and issues identified will serve as a basis for further development of technical specifications for these SATATM networks. Three ATM network architectures for bent pipe satellites and three ATM network architectures for satellites with onboard ATM switches were developed. The architectures differ from one another in terms of required level of mobility, supported data rates, supported terrestrial interfaces, and onboard processing and switching requirements. The documentation addresses low-, middle-, and geosynchronous-Earth-orbit satellite configurations. The satellite environment may require real-time routing to support the mobility of end devices and nodes of the ATM network itself. This requires the network to be able to reroute active circuits in real time. In addition to supporting mobility, rerouting can also be used to (1) optimize network routing, (2) respond to changing quality-of-service requirements, and (3) provide a fault tolerance mechanism. Traffic management and control functions are necessary in ATM to ensure that the quality-of-service requirements associated with each connection are not violated and also to provide flow and congestion control functions. Functions related to traffic management were identified and described. Most of these traffic management functions will be supported by on-ground ATM switches, but in a hybrid terrestrial-satellite ATM network, some of the traffic management functions may have to be supported by the onboard satellite ATM switch. Future work is planned to examine the tradeoffs of placing traffic management functions onboard a satellite as opposed to implementing those functions at the Earth station components.

Some effects of overall rate of earning reinforcers on run lengths and visit durations.

PubMed

Macdonall, James S

2006-07-01

In a concurrent schedule, responding at each alternative is controlled by a pair of schedules that arrange reinforcers for staying at that alternative and reinforcers for switching to the other alternative. Each pair of schedules operates only while at the associated alternative. When only one pair of stay and switch schedules is presented, the rates of earning reinforcers for staying divided by the rates of earning reinforcers for switching controls the mean number responses in a visit and the mean duration of visits. The purpose of the present experiment was to see whether the sum of the rates of earning stay and switch reinforcers changed the way that run length and visit duration were affected by the ratio of the rates of stay to switch reinforcers. Rats were exposed to pairs of stay and switch schedules that varied both the ratio of the rates of earning stay and switch reinforcers and the sum of the rates of earning stay and switch reinforcers. Run lengths and visit durations were joint functions of the ratio of the rates of earning stay and switch reinforcers and the sum of the rates of earning stay and switch reinforcers. These results shows that the effect of the ratio of the sum of the rates of earning stay and switch reinforcers results from processes operating at the alternative, rather than from processes operating at both alternatives.

THESEUS: A wavelength division multiplexed/microwave subcarrier multiplexed optical network, its ATM switch applications and device requirements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xin, Wei

1997-10-01

A Terabit Hybrid Electro-optical /underline[Se]lf- routing Ultrafast Switch (THESEUS) has been proposed. It is a self-routing wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) / microwave subcarrier multiplexed (SCM) asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) switch for the multirate ATM networks. It has potential to be extended to a large ATM switch as 1000 x 1000 without internal blocking. Among the advantages of the hybrid implementation are flexibility in service upgrade, relaxed tolerances on optical filtering, protocol simplification and less processing overhead. For a small ATM switch, the subcarrier can be used as output buffers to solve output contention. A mathematical analysis was conducted to evaluate different buffer configurations. A testbed has been successfully constructed. Multirate binary data streams have been switched through the testbed and error free reception ([<]10-9 bit error rate) has been achieved. A simple, intuitive theoretical model has been developed to describe the heterodyne optical beat interference. A new concept of interference time and interference length has been introduced. An experimental confirmation has been conducted. The experimental results match the model very well. It shows that a large portion of optical bandwidth is wasted due to the beat interference. Based on the model, several improvement approaches have been proposed. The photo-generated carrier lifetime of silicon germanium has been measured using time-resolved reflectivity measurement. Via oxygen ion implantation, the carrier lifetime has been reduced to as short as 1 ps, corresponding to 1 THz of photodetector bandwidth. It has also been shown that copper dopants act as recombination centers in the silicon germanium.

Full wave modulator-demodulator amplifier apparatus. [for generating rectified output signal

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Black, J. M. (Inventor)

1974-01-01

A full-wave modulator-demodulator apparatus is described including an operational amplifier having a first input terminal coupled to a circuit input terminal, and a second input terminal alternately coupled to the circuit input terminal. A circuit is ground by a switching circuit responsive to a phase reference signal and the operational amplifier is alternately switched between a non-inverting mode and an inverting mode. The switching circuit includes three field-effect transistors operatively associated to provide the desired switching function in response to an alternating reference signal of the same frequency as an AC input signal applied to the circuit input terminal.

Modelling the dynamics of two political parties in the presence of switching.

PubMed

Nyabadza, F; Alassey, Tobge Yawo; Muchatibaya, Gift

2016-01-01

This paper generalizes the model proposed by Misra, by considering switching between political parties. In the model proposed, the movements of members from political party B to political party C and vice versa, are considered but the net movement is considered by assuming that [Formula: see text] (a constant), which implies that the movement of members is either from party B to party C or from party C to party B. In this paper we remodel these movements through switching functions to capture how individuals switch between parties. The results provide a more comprehensive synopsis of the dynamics between two political parties.

On Polymorphic Circuits and Their Design Using Evolutionary Algorithms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stoica, Adrian; Zebulum, Ricardo; Keymeulen, Didier; Lohn, Jason; Clancy, Daniel (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

This paper introduces the concept of polymorphic electronics (polytronics) - referring to electronics with superimposed built-in functionality. A function change does not require switches/reconfiguration as in traditional approaches. Instead the change comes from modifications in the characteristics of devices involved in the circuit, in response to controls such as temperature, power supply voltage (VDD), control signals, light, etc. The paper illustrates polytronic circuits in which the control is done by temperature, morphing signals, and VDD respectively. Polytronic circuits are obtained by evolutionary design/evolvable hardware techniques. These techniques are ideal for the polytronics design, a new area that lacks design guidelines, know-how,- yet the requirements/objectives are easy to specify and test. The circuits are evolved/synthesized in two different modes. The first mode explores an unstructured space, in which transistors can be interconnected freely in any arrangement (in simulations only). The second mode uses a Field Programmable Transistor Array (FPTA) model, and the circuit topology is sought as a mapping onto a programmable architecture (these experiments are performed both in simulations and on FPTA chips). The experiments demonstrated the synthesis. of polytronic circuits by evolution. The capacity of storing/hiding "extra" functions provides for watermark/invisible functionality, thus polytronics may find uses in intelligence/security applications.

Cystic fibrosis clinical characteristics associated with dornase alfa treatment regimen change.

PubMed

VanDevanter, Donald R; Craib, Marcia L; Pasta, David J; Millar, Stefanie J; Morgan, Wayne J; Konstan, Michael W

2018-01-01

When the chronic respiratory therapy dornase alfa was made commercially available for cystic fibrosis (CF) more than 20 years ago, two regimens were approved: 2.5 mg inhaled once daily (QD) or twice daily (BID). In the intervening years, there has been little guidance as to when to use each regimen. We have studied clinical practice patterns captured in the Epidemiologic Study of CF (ESCF) during the decade following dornase alfa approval (1994-2005) to better understand clinical characteristics associated with QD versus BID dornase alfa use. Methods We studied the characteristics of ESCF patients who received either dornase alfa regimen for at least 12 months and who were then switched to the alternate regimen for at least 6 months and who had adequate data available around the time of the switch. Average lung function and weight-for-age (WFA) z-scores, numbers of intravenous (IV) antibiotic-treated pulmonary exacerbations, and prevalence of signs and symptoms were determined for 6-month periods capturing the beginning (FIRST) and the end (LAST) of the initial regimen, the 6 months preceding the final 6 months of the initial regimen (PRIOR), and the beginning of the second regimen (POST). Changes in values from FIRST to LAST, PRIOR to LAST, and LAST to POST were studied to better understand clinical scenarios associated with decisions to change regimens. A total of 1342 QD and 574 BID regimens were studied with median durations of 3.19 and 2.09 years, respectively. On average, patients beginning BID regimens had worse lung function and a greater number of pulmonary exacerbations treated with IV antibiotics than those beginning QD regimens. However, by the time of regimen switch, patients switching from QD to BID dornase alfa had experienced substantial deterioration with respect to pulmonary exacerbations and signs and symptoms, whereas patients switching from BID to QD had not. Interestingly, incidence of IV-treated pulmonary exacerbations and signs and symptom prevalence decreased for both populations after regimen switch. We have studied populations of patients with CF receiving dornase alfa who were switched between regimens to characterize clinical course. Our results suggest that the most common clinical attribute associated with switching from QD to BID dornase alfa was a marked deterioration in stability characterized by increased incidence and frequency of pulmonary exacerbation. For this population, deterioration in lung function did not appear to be a driver for this switch. In contrast, patients receiving BID dornase alfa who were ultimately switched to QD appeared to be clinically stable, on average, suggesting that treatment burden and cost may have been drivers of the decision to switch regimens. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Intraperitoneal (188)Re-Liposome delivery switches ovarian cancer metabolism from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation and effectively controls ovarian tumour growth in mice.

PubMed

Shen, Yao An; Lan, Keng Li; Chang, Chih Hsien; Lin, Liang Ting; He, Chun Lin; Chen, Po Hung; Lee, Te Wei; Lee, Yi Jang; Chuang, Chi Mu

2016-05-01

Cancer stem cells exhibit distinctive cellular metabolism compared with the more differentiated counterparts or normal cells. We aimed to investigate the impact of a novel radionuclide anti-cancer agent (188)Re-Liposome on stemness markers' expression and cellular metabolism in an ovarian cancer model. A 2×2 factorial experiment was designed in which factor 1 represented the drug treatment comparing (188)Re-BMEDA, a free form of (188)Re, with (188)Re-Liposome, a nanoparticle-encapsulated form of (188)Re. Factor 2 represented the delivery route, comparing intravenous with intraperitoneal delivery. Intraperitoneal delivery of (188)Re-Liposome predominantly killed the CSCs-like cells in tumours and switched metabolism from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation. Further, intraperitoneal delivery of (188)Re-Liposome treatment was able to block epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and reactivate p53 function. Collectively, these molecular changes led to a striking tumour-killing effect. Radionuclides encapsulated in liposomes may represent a novel treatment for ovarian cancer when delivered intraperitoneally (a type of loco-regional delivery). In the future, this concept may be further extended for the treatment of several relevant cancers that have been proved to be suitable for loco-regional delivery of therapeutic agents, such as colon cancer, gastric cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.