Deformations of colored sl(N) link homologies via foams

We generalize results of Lee, Gornik and Wu on the structure of deformed colored sl(N) link homologies to the case of non-generic deformations. To this end, we use foam technology to give a completely combinatorial construction of Wu's deformed colored sl(N) link homologies. By studying the underlying deformed higher representation theoretic structures and generalizing the Karoubi envelope approach of Bar-Natan and Morrison we explicitly compute the deformed invariants in terms of undeformed type A link homologies of lower rank and color.Comment: 64 pages, many figure

AI in space: Past, present, and possible futures

While artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly present in recent space applications, new missions being planned will require even more incorporation of AI techniques. In this paper, we survey some of the progress made to date in implementing such programs, some current directions and issues, and speculate about the future of AI in space scenarios. We also provide examples of how thinkers from the realm of science fiction have envisioned AI's role in various aspects of space exploration

Terahertz and Infrared Photodetection using p-i-n Multiple-Graphene-Layer Structures

We propose to utilize multiple-graphene-layer structures with lateral p-i-n junctions for terahertz (THz) and infrared (IR) photodetection and substantiate the operation of photodetectors based on these structures. Using the developed device model, we calculate the detector dc responsivity and detectivity as functions of the number of graphene layers and geometrical parameters and show that the dc responsivity and detectivity can be fairly large, particularly, at the lower end of the THz range at room temperatures. Due to relatively high quantum efficiency and low thermogeneration rate, the photodetectors under consideration can substantially surpass other THz and IR detectors. Calculations of the detector responsivity as a function of modulation frequency of THz and IR radiation demonstrate that the proposed photodetectors are very fast and can operate at the modulation frequency of several tens of GHz.Comment: 7 pages, 4 figure

Do Calories Count? Examining the Impact of Calorie Awareness on Food Selection

This study examined whether purchasing behavior of patrons in a college campus café changed when calorie information was provided. It compared weekly sales on food items before and after calorie information was posted for a group of target items (n = 6) that had calorie counts posted in fall 2017 and two groups of comparison items. Archival sales data were collected using the existing point-of-sale system. Sales of target items, which had calories displayed next to them, dropped significantly when compared with sales of the same items during the previous year. Sales of target items also dropped significantly when compared with sales of items matched either on food type or average sales in the year before posting calorie information. Findings indicate that posting calorie information had a significant effect on sales of items for which calorie information is displayed. Interestingly, most (80%) of the patrons of the café reported they were unaware of the calorie postings. Future research may focus on the impact of posting calorie information on the behavior of specific populations, settings, and formats. The addition of contextual information such as recommended daily caloric intake may provide additional perspective

China: An Expatriates Discovery Of Culture And Customs

The purpose of this research paper is to share and uncover the differences between American and Chinese culture and customs. These revelations illustrate the culture and customs of various Chinese provinces and how they differ from those of the United States. Moreover, an analysis of etiquettes, business practices, the concept of face, and teaching experiences are provided. In conclusion, this paper will touch upon the experiences of an expatriate while teaching at a renowned Chinese university. The viewpoints are based on experiences and observations only and, in no way, reflect the nature and culture of China as a whole. The findings of this paper will also help Americans, either traveling or teaching overseas, to prepare themselves, and will enable the reader to form his or her own perception and draw conclusions from an individual perspective