A new classification and database for stratospheric dust particles

With the increasing number of stratospheric particles available for study (via the U2 and/or WB57F collections), it is essential that a simple, yet rational, classification scheme be developed for general use. Such a scheme should be applicable to all particles collected from the stratosphere, rather than limited to only extraterrestial or chemical sub-groups. Criteria for the efficacy of such a scheme would include: (a) objectivity , (b) ease of use, (c) acceptance within the broader scientific community and (d) how well the classification provides intrinsic categories which are consistent with our knowledge of particle types present in the stratosphere

Towards a complete inventory of stratospheric dust particles, with implications for their classification

Several investigators have recently proposed classification schemes for stratospheric dust particles [1-3]. In addition, extraterrestrial materials within stratospheric dust collections may be used as a measure of micrometeorite flux [4]. However, little attention has been given to the problems of the stratospheric collection as a whole. Some of these problems include: (a) determination of accurate particle abundances at a given point in time; (b) the extent of bias in the particle selection process; (c) the variation of particle shape and chemistry with size; (d) the efficacy of proposed classification schemes and (e) an accurate determination of physical parameters associated with the particle collection process (e.g. minimum particle size collected, collection efficiency, variation of particle density with time). We present here preliminary results from SEM, EDS and, where appropriate, XRD analysis of all of the particles from a collection surface which sampled the stratosphere between 18 and 20km in altitude. Determinations of particle densities from this study may then be used to refine models of the behavior of particles in the stratosphere [5]

Doing evolution in economic geography

Evolutionary approaches in economic geography face questions about the relationships between their concepts, theories, methods, politics, and policy implications. Amidst the growing but unsettled consensus that evolutionary approaches should employ plural methodologies, the aims here are, first, to identify some of the difficult issues confronting those working with different frameworks. The concerns comprise specifying and connecting research objects, subjects, and levels; handling agency and context; engaging and integrating the quantitative and the qualitative; comparing cases; and, considering politics, policy, and praxis. Second, the purpose is to articulate a distinctive geographical political economy approach, methods, and illustrative examples in addressing these issues. Bringing different views of evolution in economic geography into dialogue and disagreement renders methodological pluralism a means toward improved understanding and explanation rather than an end in itself. Confronting such thorny matters needs to be embedded in our research practices and supported by greater openness; more and better substantiation of our conceptual, theoretical, and empirical claims; enhanced critical reflection; and deeper engagement with politics, policy, and praxis

Magnitudes and temporal sequencing of load kinematics and kinetics for single-handed pulls

This paper provides data regarding kinematics and kinetics during single-handed, submaximal pulls about various locations in the frontal plane for three loads (6, 12 and 18% lean body mass). Pulls were executed at two relative heights (elbow and eye) through two parasagittal planes also relative to subject morphology. Results indicate that in most cases load and pull location influence the occurrence of measured kinetic variables within a pull cycle but have little effect on the magnitude of these values. Findings from this study suggest that analyses of kinematic and kinetic movement histories may be required for a better understanding of the mechanical loading profiles upon operators engaged in such manual materials handling activities

Multifractal properties of critical eigenstates in two-dimensional systems with symplectic symmetry

The multifractal properties of electronic eigenstates at the metal-insulator transition of a two-dimensional disordered tight-binding model with spin-orbit interaction are investigated numerically. The correlation dimensions of the spectral measure $\widetilde{D}_{2}$ and of the fractal eigenstate $D_{2}$ are calculated and shown to be related by $D_{2}=2\widetilde{D}_{2}$. The exponent $\eta=0.35\pm 0.05$ describing the energy correlations of the critical eigenstates is found to satisfy the relation $\eta=2-D_{2}$.Comment: 6 pages RevTeX; 3 uuencoded, gzipped ps-figures to appear in J. Phys. Condensed Matte

Analytical electron microscopy of fine-grained phases in primitive interplanetary dust particles and carbonaceous chondrites

In order to describe the total mineralogical diversity within primitive extraterrestrial materials, individual interplanetary dust particles (IDPs) collected from the stratosphere as part of the JSC Cosmic Dust Curatorial Program were analyzed using a variety of AEM techniques. Identification of over 250 individual grains within one chondritic porous (CP) IDP shows that most phases could be formed by low temperature processes and that heating of the IDP during atmospheric entry is minimal and less than 600 C. In a review of the mineralogy of IDPs, it was suggested that the occurrence of other silicates such as enstatite whiskers is consistent with the formation in an early turbulent period of the solar nebula. Experimental confirmation of fundamental chemical and physical processes in a stellar environment, such as vapor phase condensation, nucleation, and growth by annealing, is an important aspect of astrophysical models for the evolution of the Solar System. A detailed comparison of chondritic IDP and carbonaceous chondrite mineralogies shows significant differences between the types of silicate minerals as well as the predominant oxides

Time-dependent quantum transport in a resonant tunnel junction coupled to a nanomechanical oscillator

We present a theoretical study of time-dependent quantum transport in a resonant tunnel junction coupled to a nanomechanical oscillator within the non-equilibrium Green's function technique. An arbitrary voltage is applied to the tunnel junction and electrons in the leads are considered to be at zero temperature. The transient and the steady state behavior of the system is considered here in order to explore the quantum dynamics of the oscillator as a function of time. The properties of the phonon distribution of the nanomechnical oscillator strongly coupled to the electrons on the dot are investigated using a non-perturbative approach. We consider both the energy transferred from the electrons to the oscillator and the Fano factor as a function of time. We discuss the quantum dynamics of the nanomechanical oscillator in terms of pure and mixed states. We have found a significant difference between a quantum and a classical oscillator. In particular, the energy of a classical oscillator will always be dissipated by the electrons whereas the quantum oscillator remains in an excited state. This will provide useful insight for the design of experiments aimed at studying the quantum behavior of an oscillator.Comment: 24 pages, 10 figure