cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CATION EXCHANGE AND PILLARING OF SMECTITES BY AQUEOUS Fe NITRATE SOLUTIONS

A comparative study of the behavior of four types of smectite is reported: two with a low Fe content, SHCa-1 (hectorite from San Bernadino, California), SWy-1 (montmorillonite from Wyoming) and two nontronites NG-1 (from Hohen Hagen, Germany) and SWa-1 (Grant County, Washington). Cation exchange was performed with a freshly prepared 1 M Fe nitrate aqueous solution. Intercalation with the same solution partially neutralized with an anhydrous carbonate solution, giving a molar ratio of OH−/Fe = 2 was also studied. The modified clays were characterized by X-ray diffraction, N2 adsorption-desorption, Mossbauer spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, atomic absorption spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence and inductively coupled plasma analysis. In the cation exchange process, the goethite impurities grew with the Fe-rich clays but not with the Fe-poor clays. This exchange was also found to have no effect on the thermal stability and structure of the clay minerals with low Fe content, whereas it had a slight effect on the structure of the Fe-rich clays and on their thermal stability. The extent of the intercalation, however, appears to depend on the expandability of the clay layers to accommodate the Fe(III) polycations, and increases from the nontronites to montmorillonite and to hectorite. This intercalation treatment has only a slight effect on both the structure and the thermal stability of hectorite and montmorillonite. In contrast, the nontronites undergo a dramatic change in both their structure and thermal stability. The formation of Fe oxyhydroxide and oxide phases in both procedures becomes very important when the initial structural Fe content of the clay minerals is high, increasing from SHCa-1, SWy-1, SWa-1 to NG-1. The contribution of the structural Fe of the clays to the formation of the Fe oxyhydroxide is not negligible, because of partial leaching of Fe from the octahedral sheet of Fe-rich clays due to the low pH of the solutions.
Semi-3D silicon detector and initial results of its performance

Abstract A novel p + –n + /n/n + semi-3D structure configuration has been developed and it is expected to improve the radiation hardness of silicon sensors after space charge sign inversion (SCSI). A special configuration of semi-3D sensors facilitates depletion from both sides of the sensors after SCSI and reduces the depletion voltage by half or more. The reduction of depletion voltage will increase the ability of silicon detectors to operate in the presence of severe bulk radiation damage expected at high-intensity colliders. Semi-3D sensors can be manufactured using only single-sided, conventional planar processing. Electrical characterization of semi-3D test structures through I–V and C–V curves before and after irradiation is presented here.
UP - DOWN QUARK MASS DIFFERENCE: COUPLINGS OF PIONS TO NUCLEONS OR ISOBARS AND LOW-ENERGY NUCLEON NUCLEON SCATTERING

We investigate effects of the up-down quark mass difference on the couplings of pions to nucleons or isobars. The calculated $\ensuremath{\pi}\mathrm{NN}$ and $\ensuremath{\pi}\mathrm{N}\ensuremath{\Delta}$ couplings are used to derive the long-range one-pion-exchange potential and the intermediate-range attraction for the three different cases: p-p, n-p, and n-n. The resultant potentials are then used to determine numerically the low-energy scattering parameters, including both the scattering length $a$ and the effective range $r$. Our results indicate that a reasonable up-down quark mass difference such as 10 MeV yields a value for $|{a}_{\mathrm{pp}}|\ensuremath{-}|{a}_{\mathrm{nn}}|$ of about + 0.6 fm, which is sizable from the experimental point of view. Our results also suggest that the large observed value for $|{a}_{\mathrm{np}}|\ensuremath{-}|{a}_{\mathrm{nn}}|$ can be understood primarily as a manifestation of the pion mass difference.[NUCLEAR REACTIONS Application of quark models to nuclear physics; effects of the up-down quark mass difference on couplings of pions to nucleons or isobars; charge dependence and charge symmetry breaking in low energy nucleon-nucleon scattering.]
‘Where everybody knows your name’: Lessons from small business about preventing workplace violence

Abstract Recently, we have seen a number of high profile examples of workplace violence. Large organizations are armed with many of the programs that have been developed to minimize the occurrence of workplace violence. In contrast, smaller organizations—which constitute the majority of businesses in the United States—possess neither the resources nor the manpower to implement the aforementioned programs. Additionally, due to a number of individual, social, and situational factors, small businesses appear to be more vulnerable to workplace violence than large businesses. Despite these disadvantages, however, it seems that small businesses do not experience higher levels of workplace violence than their more sizeable counterparts. In this article, we uncover a number of small business practices that may counteract the threat of workplace violence, and proffer these as lessons for all managers who wish to work toward that goal.
Nonlinear dynamic model for magnetically-tunable Galfenol vibration absorbers

This paper presents a single degree of freedom model for the nonlinear vibration of a metal-matrix composite manufactured by ultrasonic additive manufacturing that contains seamlessly embedded magnetostrictive Galfenol alloys (FeGa). The model is valid under arbitrary stress and magnetic field. Changes in the composite’s natural frequency are quantified to assess its performance as a semi-active vibration absorber. The effects of Galfenol volume fraction and location within the composite on natural frequency are quantified. The bandwidth over which the composite’s natural frequency can be tuned with a bias magnetic field is studied for varying displacement excitation amplitudes. The natural frequency is tunable for all excitation amplitudes considered, but the maximum tunability occurs below an excitation amplitude threshold of 1 × 10 −6 m for the composite geometry considered. Natural frequency shifts between 6% and 50% are found as the Galfenol volume fraction varies from 25% to 100% when Galfenol is located at the composite neutral axis. At a modest 25% Galfenol by volume, the model shows that up to 15% shifts in composite resonance are possible through magnetic bias field modulation if Galfenol is embedded away from the composite midplane. As the Galfenol volume fraction and distance between Galfenol and composite midplane are increased, linear and quadratic increases in tunability result, respectively.
The Role of International Trade Policy in Economic Growth: A Case of Tanzania

While the benefits from international trade are well documented in economic literature, application of a prudent trade policy may need a political acumen as well as economic insight. Tanzania has been a classic example of how a strategic trade policy can affect economic growth in a positive way. This paper analyzes the economic effects of tariff policy and by discussing the background of Tanzania economy it applies the theoretical principles to this specific case.
HORMONAL MECHANISMS OF GROWTH FAILURE IN MODERATE CHRONIC METABOLIC ACIDOSIS(CMA) WITH NORMAL FOOD INTAKE. 392

Hormonal changes in rats subjected to high doses of NH4Cl are similar to those observed in non acidotic rats with similar degree of food deprivation. To assess the effect of CMA with normal food intake on the growth hormone (GH)-insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis, we compared 3-6 month-old mice with congenital deficiency in carbonic anhydrase II (CAD) to B6AF1 controls (Con). Because of the differences in secretory pattern of GH in rats, genders were analyzed separately. We measured hourly serum GH concentrations(avg±sem) by ELISA using a species-specific antiserum (provided by Genentech), and assessed free serum levels of IGF-1 and IGF-2 by the ratio of the concentration of total IGF-1 or IGF-2 (measured by RIA) to that of high molecular weight IGF-binding protein (IGF-BP3, measured by densitometric analysis of western ligand blots). In male Con (n=6) the number of peak GH levels (defined as > 5 ng/ml) and the average daytime GH concentration were similar to nocturnal values. The average daytime GH concentration and the incidence of GH peaks (8%) in Con males were approximately twice as high as in the other groups. Table
Consequence probability and utility as factors in the decision to behave assertively

Traditional models of assertive behavior have relied upon the notions that maladaptive anxiety inhibits the expression of assertiveness or that nonassertive persons lack the necessary skills for effective self-assertion. It has also been proposed that people weigh the consequences that might follow assertive or nonassertive behavior and then choose the most favorable course. Fiedler and Beach (1978) in vestigated this notion and found that, when faced with unreasonable requests people who would choose to refuse expected positive outcomes to result. Differences between subjects choosing refusal or compliance were found in their estimates of the probability that specific consequences might occur but not in the value or importance attributed to these consequences. After several aspects of procedure were modified, the above study was replicated. Assertive subjects expected positive outcomes to follow refusal while nonassertive sujects expected positive outcomes to follow compliance. The reverse pattern was noted for negative consequences, but differences also occurred in subjects' ratings of the value of positive and negative consequences. Assertive subjects rated the positive consequences of refusal as more desirable and the negative consequences of compliance more undesirable than did nonassertive subjects.
Nonlocal approach to the analysis of the stress distribution in granular systems. II. Application to experiment

A theory of stress propagation in granular materials developed recently [Kenkre, Scott, Pease, and Hurd, preceding paper, Phys. Rev. E {bold 57}, 5841 (1998)] is applied to the compaction of ceramic and metal powders in pipes with previously unexplained experimental features such as nonmonotonic density and stress variation along the axis of cylindrical compacts. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}
Preoperative C-Reactive Protein Level Adjusted for Comorbidities and Lifestyle Factors Predicts Overall Mortality in Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma

Purpose: C-reactive protein (CRP), an acute phase reactant, is a non-specific marker of inflammation. Elevations in CRP levels are linked with trauma, infection, autoimmune disease, malignancy, and lifestyle factors, such as smoking and obesity. Previously, we noted a significant association between the preoperative CRP level, 1-year relapse-free survival, and 1-year overall relative survival in patients with localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This study sought to determine what effect, if any, lifestyle factors have on the prognostic value of preoperative CRP level for overall survival in individuals with localized RCC.
Influences of grain structure on thermally induced stresses in 3D IC inter-wafer vias

We discuss the development of a grain-continuum model to examine the effects of thermally induced stress in 3D IC inter-wafer vias. We demonstrate the approach using stress-driven grain boundary migration in polycrystalline copper films, assuming that migration is due to vacancy migration. The anisotropic elastic constants of single crystal Cu are used for each grain, after aligning them with each grain’s orientation. Stresses are thermally induced in a series of films, including one with a dominant texture surrounding a single grain. Grain boundary velocities are calculated from the fluxes of vacancies to grain boundaries. The computed velocities are then used to update the level sets that represent the grain boundaries using the PLENTE software.
Welfare effects of energy price decontrol

Abstract This paper illustrates a technique for measuring the vertical equity effects and total consumer losses resulting from energy price decontrol. The technique is applied to the gasoline market for crude oil price decontrol.
Telephina and other trilobites from the Pratt Ferry Beds, Ordovician of Alabama, U.S.A.

Abstract The Pratt Ferry beds are a three meter thick bioclastic carbonate unit containing the Pygodus serrus–P. anserinus conodont zone boundary and lying just below the Nemagraptus gracilis graptolite zone at a single locality in Alabama. Telephina Marek at Pratt Ferry and other eastern North American localities is represented by at least six species. These are judged widespread and in part conspecific with Scandinavian or Asian forms of similar age. Most of the fifteen Appalachian telephinid species proposed by Ulrich (1930) are reviewed and some synonymized. Bevanopsis Cooper is present, extending its stratigraphic range via B. buttsi (Cooper). The original description of Ceraurinella buttsi Cooper is augmented. Other recorded but poorly represented genera include Ampyxina, Arthrorhachis, Calyptaulax, Hibbertia, Lonchodomas, Mesotaphraspis, Porterfieldia, and Sphaerexochus. The entire faunule represents a mixture of ‘inshore' and ‘offshore' or planktonic faunal elements rarely seen elsewhere in the la...
Dimethyl Sulfide Measurement by Fluorine-Induced Chemiluminescence

We have developed a high-speed sensor for dimethyl sulfide (DMS) based on its fast chemiluminescent reaction with molecular fluorine. Emission in the wavelength range 450−650 nm is monitored via photon counting. The instrument can continuously measure DMS with a response time of 0.1 s and is highly linear and sensitive. Limits of detection (S/N = 1) are 39, 12, and 4 pptv DMS for 0.1-, 1-, and 10-s integration times, respectively. Sensitivity and response time allow the direct measurement of DMS fluxes in the marine atmospheric boundary layer by the eddy correlation technique. Selectivity has previously been measured and is sufficient for monitoring DMS in the marine boundary layer without significant interferences.
A study of thermal aging of Pt/Al2O3 using temperature-programmed desorption spectroscopy

The metal dispersion of 1.0% PtAl2O3 was characterized using temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) of D2 in an ultrahigh vacuum apparatus. On the nonaged catalyst desorption of D2 gives rise to two peaks, one which can be identified as weak desorption from the Al2O3 support surface and the other as D2 desorption from the supported Pt particle surfaces. The PtAl2O3 sample was thermally aged in 5% O2N2 or in 5% H2N2 at a selected aging temperature for several hours. At intervals as small as 1 min, the Pt dispersion was obtained by D2 TPD. For aging temperatures of 700, 800, and 900 °C, the Pt dispersion decreased rapidly within the first few minutes of treatment and then more gradually afterward, consistent with the change in the dominant sintering mechanism from particle migration to interparticle transport. For sintering temperatures of 700, 800, and 900 °C, the D2 TPD peak shape changed as a function of aging time; this change suggests that faceting of the Pt particles occurs during sintering. The data also indicate that aging in an oxygen environment does not redisperse PtAl2O3, contrary to other reports. For all aging temperatures, sintering was less severe in the H2 environment than in the O2 environment. The aging data from both environments were fitted to a simple kinetic sintering model.
Photochemical synthesis of shape-selective palladium nanocubes in aqueous solution

We have developed a seedless, citrateless one-step synthetic process for the formation of shape controlled monodisperse Pd nanoparticles (NPs) in 4 h of UV-photoirradiation. The synthesis was done in cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactant media in the presence of ascorbic acid as a reducing agent. The size and shape of the particles can be tuned easily by varying the molar ratio of the CTAB with the Pd salt and by controlling the UV-photoirradiation time. The preferential binding of CTAB to the (100) facets of Pd leads to the formation of Pd nanorods and nanocubes. The approach developed here would reduce the use of seed particles and tri-sodium citrate for the fast synthesis of faceted Pd NPs. The synthesized particles were found to be stable for at least 3 months under ambient conditions at room temperature. This newly developed process might find potential applications in the formation of other materials like Au, Ag, and CdS NPs and applicable in surface enhanced Raman scattering, and different catalysis reactions. We have developed a seedless, citrateless one-step synthetic process for the formation of shape controlled monodisperse Pd nanoparticles (NPs) in 4 h of UV-photoirradiation. The synthesis was done in cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactant media in the presence of ascorbic acid as a reducing agent. The size and shape of the particles can be tuned easily by varying the molar ratio of the CTAB with the Pd salt and by controlling the UV-photoirradiation time. The preferential binding of CTAB to the (100) facets of Pd leads to the formation of Pd nanorods and nanocubes. The approach developed here would reduce the use of seed particles and tri-sodium citrate for the fast synthesis of faceted Pd NPs. The synthesized particles were found to be stable for at least 3 months under ambient conditions at room temperature. This newly developed process might find potential applications in the formation of other materials like Au, Ag, and CdS NPs and applicable in surface enhanced Raman scattering, and different catalysis reactions.
Aggressive Data Reduction for Damage Detection in Structural Health Monitoring

While wireless sensors are increasingly adopted in various applications, the need of developing data reduction methods to alleviate data transmission rate issue between the sensors and the data int...
Web accessibility at Kentucky's academic libraries

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide an update on the implementation of web accessibility guidelines at Kentucky academic library web sites.Design/methodology/approach – The academic library home pages of Bachelor‐degree granting institutions of Kentucky were tested for accessibility compliance using an online automated program. In addition, a series of manual accessibility tests were performed. Data were collected on errors against accessibility guidelines for each site. Data collected in 2003 were compared to data collected in 2007.Findings – The number of library home pages complying with basic accessibility guidelines is increasing. However, most sites that score well are built to comply with checkpoints that can be tested automatically. Few institutions included accessibility features which required manual verification.Research limitations/implications – This study relies largely on data collected with an imperfect accessibility‐checking software program. Some accessibility checkpoints c...
Synthesis of Molybdenum Imido Alkylidene Complexes Containing N,N‘-Disubstituted 2,2‘-Bisamido-1,1‘-binaphthyl Ligands

Addition of the dipotassium salt of 2,2‘-bis-p-tolylsulfonamido-1,1‘-binaphthyl (K2[BINA(NTs)2]) to Mo(NAr)(CHCMe2Ph)(OTf)2(dme) (Ar = 2,6-i-Pr2C6H3; OTf = OSO2CF3), Mo(N-2-CF3C6H4)(CHCMe2Ph)(OTf)2(dme), and Mo(N-2-CF3C6H4)(CH-t-Bu)(OTf)2(dme) gave Mo(NAr)(CHCMe2Ph)[BINA(NTs)2] (1a), Mo(N-2-CF3C6H4)(CHCMe2Ph)[BINA(NTs)2] (1b), and Mo(N-2-CF3C6H4)(CH-t-Bu)[BINA(NTs)2] (1c), respectively. The X-ray crystal structure of 1c showed that one sulfonyl oxygen is coordinated to the molybdenum. Related complexes, Mo(NAr)(CHCMe2Ph)[BINA(N−i-Pr)2] (2) and Mo(NAr)(CHCMe2Ph)[BINA(NTMS)2] (3), were prepared similarly. The pseudotetrahedral nature of 2 was confirmed in an X-ray study. None of these complexes reacts readily with ethylene, styrene, benzaldehyde, or diallyl ether.
Postnatal ethanol exposure alters levels of 2-arachidonylglycerol-metabolizing enzymes and pharmacological inhibition of monoacylglycerol lipase does not cause neurodegeneration in neonatal mice

The consumption of ethanol by pregnant women may cause neurological abnormalities, affecting learning and memory processes in children, and are collectively described as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes are still poorly understood. In our previous studies, we found that ethanol treatment of postnatal day 7 (P7) mice significantly enhances the anandamide levels but not the 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) levels and induces widespread neurodegeneration, but the reason for the lack of significant effects of ethanol on the 2-AG level is unknown. In this study, we examined developmental changes in diacylglycerol lipase-α, β (DAGL-α and β) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). We found that the levels of these proteins were significantly higher in adult brains compared to those detected early in brain development. Next, we examined the influence of P7 ethanol treatment on these enzymes, finding that it differentially altered the DAGL-α protein and mRNA levels but consistently enhanced those of the DAGL-β. Interestingly, the ethanol treatment enhanced MAGL protein and mRNA levels. Inhibition of MAGL with KML29 failed to induce neurodegeneration in P7 mice. Collectively, these findings suggest that ethanol significantly activates DAGL-β and MAGL in the neonatal brain, resulting in no net change in 2-AG levels.
Testosterone-Induced Incubation Patches of Phalarope Birds

In order to determine the endocrine factors in the production of the incubation patch of phalarope birds (Steganopus tricolor and Lobipes lobatus), adults of both sexes have been maintained in captivity and injected with estradiol, testosterone, or prolactin, or with different combinations of these hormones. Only testosterone and prolactin in combination produced incubation patches in all birds, both male and female, in the two species.
Iter/tiber helium-cooled solid and liquid breeder test module designs and evaluations

This paper reports the scoping phase designs of the helium-cooled solid breeder and liquid breeder test modules proposed to be used in the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). It also includes detailed test module development plans from which test tasks that are required for ITER were identified. Many of the identified tasks can be addressed by pre-ITER experiments, thus minimizing the capital and operating costs of ITER. Tasks that need to be addressed by ITER are in the areas of tritium self-sufficiency and control, structure and solid breeder thermomechanical behavior under neutron fluence, and system reliability.
Interaction and thermal stability of fluorescent labeled derivatives of thrombin and antithrombin III

Abstract Derivatives of human thrombin and antithrombin III with fluorescent labels covalently attached to their carbohydrate moieties were prepared by reaction of periodate-oxidized proteins with amino derivatives of dansyl, fluorescein and pyrene. The labeled derivatives retained full biological activity, including their ability to form stable enzyme-inhibitor complexes, a reaction whose rate could be monitored by the increase in fluorescence polarization. When the dansyl-labeled derivatives were heated, they exhibited sigmoidal increases in polarization with midpoints near 50°C for thrombin and 60°C for antithrombin III. By contrast, a complex between antithrombin III and dansyl-thrombin showed no change in polarization up to 70°C, suggesting that the individual components are more stable in the complex. These studies show that fluorescent labels attached to carbohydrate moieties of glycoproteins provide convenient probes for monitoring conformational changes and protein-protein interactions with minimum interference by the probe.
A dynamic model of a concentric LADD actuator

On etudie un actionneur capable de convertir un mouvement de rotation en un mouvement de translation
Next Steps in Bayesian Structural Equation Models: Comments on, Variations of, and Extensions to Muthen and Asparouhov (2012).

Muthen and Asparouhov (2012) made a strong case for the advantages of Bayesian methodology in factor analysis and structural equation models. I show additional extensions and adaptations of their methods and show how non-Bayesians can take advantage of many (though not all) of these advantages by using interval restrictions on parameters. By keeping parameters restricted to intervals (such as loadings between .3 and .3 to produce small loadings), frequentists using standard structural equation modeling software can do something similar to what a Bayesian does by putting prior distributions on these parameters. Muthen and Asparouhov (2012) have provided a thoughtful approach that adds to the growing literature on Bayesian methods in factor analysis and structural equation modeling. Many contri- butions so far in this area are very technical, and the less technical nature of much of this article provides a chance for those who are not yet Bayesians to gently step into Bayesian territory. (For contributions that are more technical, see, e.g., Lee, 2007; for a tutorial on Bayesian item response theory and factor analysis, see Rupp, Dey, & Zumbo, 2004.) Further, the implementation of these methods in standard software, Mplus, will make it much easier for researchers to make use of these suggestions. I have some reac- tions, ideas, and questions for future implementation of Muthen and Asparouhov's methods as well as alternative approaches and interpretations.
Overshoot-induced failures in forward-biased diodes: A new challenge to high-speed ESD design

We report a new challenge to IEC protection of high-speed devices caused by current filamentation due to voltage-overshoot effects in forward-biased diodes. While well understood in reverse-biased junctions, filamentation has never been reported in forward-biased junctions, which are often used in high-speed designs such as USB3 and HDMI. An analytical model is presented to estimate the voltage overshoot as a function of rise-time and bias conditions to predict the trade-offs inherent in low-capacitance ESD diodes.
The Book of Management Wisdom: Classic Writings by Legendary Managers

The article reviews the book “The Book of Management Wisdom: Classic Writings by Legendary Managers,” edited by Peter Krass.
Continuous position and speed sensor for center pivot sprinkler systems

Determination of center pivot position and speed are frequently required for both research and commercial operations. To represent these variables accurately, a simple device that provides a continuous, high-resolution representation of center pivot position and speed was constructed of readily available parts. A goal was to develop a device that was an improvement from previous designs. A timing belt was bonded to a center pivot riser, and as the riser turned, the belt meshed with a gear causing it to rotate a 360 ° potentiometer. The device described can be interfaced to a computer at a central location to record center pivot position and calculate rotational speed (...)
Involving Students in Political Advocacy and Social Change

ABSTRACT This paper provides instruction for organizing and implementing a statewide effort to involve students in the legislative process. It includes information about costs, public relations and publicity, strategies for involving schools, choosing speakers, promotional and educational materials, and legislative resources. Obstacles and problems are also discussed.
Temporal Changes in Mood Repair Through Music Consumption: Effects of Mood, Mood Salience, and Individual Differences

Prior research on mood management through media consumption has encountered mixed results. This study seeks to address these discrepancies by incorporating time of measurement into the examination of regulatory outcomes and by identifying trait-like cognitive moderators that presumably are involved in the regulation of negative moods. Results showed that sad mood initially fostered longer listening to mood-compatible music but such preference decreased over time, suggesting the merits of considering temporal changes in the mood-repair process. In addition, ruminative trait was found to be a significant factor in how people cope with their sad moods, whereas mood salience was not.
The phase relations of calcium fluoride (fluorite) to 60 kbars and 1800°C

Abstract We present here a somewhat tentative phase diagram for calcium fluoride (fluorite). We find three stable phases as well as a field of liquid. We show here the slope of the melting curve, the β-γ phase boundary, the α-β phase boundary and the approximate α-γ phase boundary. Our extrapolated α-γ phase boundary required considerable curvature in order for it to coincide with the reported 1 atmosphere Dandekar and Jamieson value of the transition.
Liquid-assisted femtosecond laser drilling of straight and three-dimensional microchannels in glass

Ultra-short-pulse lasers have proved to be effective tools for micromachining a wide range of materials. When the ultra-short laser pulse is focused inside the bulk of a transparent medium, nonlinear absorption occurs only near the focal volume that is subjected to high intensity. Three-dimensional structures can be fabricated inside transparent materials by taking advantage of this volumetric absorption. In this paper, femtosecond laser pulses were used to fabricate straight and bent through-channels. Drilling was initiated from the rear surface to preserve consistent absorption of the laser pulse. When the debris was not removed efficiently, variation of the channel diameter and occasional termination of the drilling process were observed. Machining in the presence of a liquid and additional use of ultrasonic wave agitation facilitated the debris ejection. The machined channels had diameters on the order of tens of microns, high aspect ratios, and good wall-surface quality.
Some improvements in state/parameter estimation using the cell-to-cell mapping technique /

The cell-to-cell-mapping technique (CCMT) models system evolution in terms of probability of transitions within a user-specified time interval (e.g., data-sampling interval) between sets of user-defined parameter/state variable magnitude intervals (cells). The cell-to-cell transition probabilities are obtained from the given linear or nonlinear plant model. In conjunction with monitored data and the plant model, the Dynamic System Doctor (DSD) software package uses the CCMT to determine the probability of finding the unmonitored parameter/state variables in a given cell at a given time recursively from a Markov chain. The most important feature of the methodology with regard to model-based fault diagnosis is that it can automatically account for uncertainties in the monitored system state, inputs, and modeling uncertainties through the appropriate choice of the cells, as well as providing a probabilistic measure to rank the likelihood of faults in view of these uncertainties. Such a ranking is particularly important for risk-informed regulation and risk monitoring of nuclear power plants. The DSD estimation algorithm is based on the assumptions that (a) the measurement noise is uniformly distributed and (b) the measured variables are part of the state variable vector. A new theoretical basis is presented for CCMT-based state/parameter estimation that waives these assumptions using a Bayesian interpretation of the approach and expands the applicability range of DSD, as well as providing a link to the conventional state/ parameter estimation schemes. The resulting improvements are illustrated using a point reactor xenon evolution model in the presence of thermal feedback and compared to the previous DSD algorithm. The results of the study show that the new theoretical basis (a) increases the applicability of methodology to arbitrary observers and arbitrary noise distributions in the monitored data, as well as to arbitrary uncertainties in the model parameters; (b) leads to improvements in the estimation speed and accuracy; and (c) allows the estimator to be used for noise reduction in the monitored data. The connection between DSD and conventional state/parameter estimation schemes is shown and illustrated for the least-squares estimator, maximum likelihood estimator, and Kalman filter using a recently proposed scheme for directly measuring local power density in nuclear reactor cores.
Optimizing the efficiency of high-field multivoxel spectroscopic imaging by multiplexing in space and time.

A new strategy to yield information from the maximum number of voxels, each at the optimum signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) per unit time, in MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) is introduced. In the past, maximum acquisition duty-cycle was obtained by multiplexing in time several single slices each repetition time (TR), while optimal SNR was achieved by encoding the entire volume of interest (VOI) each TR. We show that optimal SNR and acquisition efficiency can both be achieved simultaneously by multiplexing in space and time several slabs of several slices, each. Since coverage of common VOIs in 3D proton MRSI in the human brain typically requires eight or more slices, at 3 T or higher magnetic fields, two or more slabs can fit into the optimum TR (∼1.6 s). Since typically four or less slices would then fit into each slab, Hadamard encoding is favored in that direction for slice profile reasons. It is demonstrated that per fixed examination length, the new method gives, at 3 T, twice as many voxels, each of the same SNR and size, compared with current 3D chemical shift imaging techniques. It is shown that this gain will increase for more extensive spatial coverage or higher fields. Magn Reson Med, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Comparing diagnostic tests without a gold standard: How well does the Hui-Walter model really work?

Purpose Hui and Walter (1980) proposed a model to estimate the sensitivities (Se) and specificities (Sp) of two diagnostic tests in the absence of a “gold standard.” Many methodological advances in this area have used their model as a starting point. Its performance has not been empirically investigated, however. This study examines the Hui-Walter (H-W) model's performance both when its assumptions are met and when they are not. Methods Following the model, this study considered samples drawn from two populations of low ( 50%) disease prevalences (n = 250 x 2 groups). Test parameters (Se, Sp) ranged from 50% to 100%. All parameters were randomly determined at each iteration of the simulation. The two tests were assumed either to be independent (r = 0) or correlated (r = 0.5) given an individual's disease status. A covariate that reduced the specificity of one of the tests was considered either to be absent or to be present at random low levels (≤20%) in the two populations. Data were generated in SAS, and parameters and credible intervals were estimated with WinBUGS. Results When model assumptions are true, the H-W model provides unbiased (bias: −0.01–0.002) estimates of the tests' performances and accurately describes the tests' relative performances 96% of the time. When the tests are correlated and when test performance is modified by the presence of a covariate, the model does not perform well. Average bias of test parameter estimates exceeds 0.10, with the 95% credible intervals covering the true values only 10%–58% of the time. The relative performances of the two tests, however, were accurately described 96% of the time. Conclusion The H-W model provides a solid foundation for methods to compare test performance without a gold standard. The model is sensitive, however, to violations of its assumptions. Methods are needed that can incorporate covariates that modify test performance.
High short-term bit-rates from TCP flows

Micro-bursts from TCP flows are investigated. The chip-rate is introduced and used to quantify the short-term bit-rate of TCP flows. This paper examines packets with chip-rates above the 90/sup th/ percentile. The examination is performed over time scales ranging from 244 /spl mu/s to 125 ms. Two issues are addressed, the impact and the causes of the micro-bursts. It is found that the packets with high chip-rate experience an elevated probability of burst losses. For example, the probability of a burst loss is up to 10 times larger for packets sent in micro-bursts. Furthermore, in some settings, these packets experience higher loss rate in general. It is also found that micro-bursts cause an increase in queuing delay. The causes of these micro-bursts are investigated. One finding is that at short-time scales, ACK clocking, which should reduce micro-bursts, is not functioning correctly. For example, in some cases, most of the packets contained in micro-bursts are ACKed at a rate that is less than half of the data rate.
Linear matrix inequalities for free flight conflict problems

Under the concept of free flight, aircraft will be allowed much greater flexibility in trajectory planning than ever before. The ability to anticipate and resolve conflicts provides one of the greatest challenges to this proposed environment. In this paper, the following problem is addressed: given two aircraft, their intended trajectories and uncertainty about their behavior, what is their worst-case miss distance over a given time horizon? This question is answered using linear matrix inequalities and positive semi-definite programming. The proposed approach provides guaranteed lower bounds on minimum miss distances in polynomial time. Several increasingly complex examples are given that illustrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Dispersion of bound electron nonlinear refraction in solids

A two-hand model is used to calculate the scaling and spectrum of the nondegenerate nonlinear absorption. From this, the bound electronic nonlinear refractive index n/sub 2/ is obtained using a Kramers-Kronig transformation. The authors include the effects of two-photon and Raman transitions and the AC Stark shift (virtual band blocking). The theoretical calculation for n/sub 2/ shows excellent agreement with measured values for a five-order-of-magnitude variation in the modulus of n/sub 2/ in semiconductors and wide-gap optical solids. Beam distortion methods were used to measure n/sub 2/ in semiconductors. The observations result in a comprehensive theory that allows a prediction of n/sub 2/ at wavelengths beneath the band edge, given only the bandgap energy and the linear index of refraction. Some consequences for all-optical switching are discussed, and a wavelength criterion for the observation of switching is derived. >
Review of salesperson selection techniques and criteria: A managerial approach

Abstract Billions of Dollars, Lires, Yens, etc. have been spent worldwide in researching the selection process in an effort to find a solution to identifying successful sales people. Though the process has been refined and improved, selecting those who would be successful is one of the greatest costs and challenges to sales management today. This article presents a review of several methods currently being utilized.
Wernicke's encephalopathy and Korsakoff's syndrome revisited.

Carl Wernicke, a German neurologist, published the formal description of the encephalopathy for whom it is named 131 years ago. The clinical symptoms included lethargy, ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, andmental compromise.Within the same decade but unaware of Wernicke’s description, Sergei Korsakoff, a Russian psychiatrist, presented his doctoral dissertation, “Alcoholic Paralysis,” on the circumscribed amnesia occurring in certain cases of chronic alcoholism. More than half a century lapsed before the common etiology of thiamine deficiencywas discovered as the cause of the signs, symptoms, and link between these conditions (for historical reviews, see Charness, et al. 1989; Victor, et al. 1989). We now acknowledge the temporal linkage of Wernicke’s Encephalopathy (WE) and Korsakoff’s Syndrome (KS), depicted in Fig. 1 (cover image): 1) the acute phase of the encephalopathy, which results in bilateral lesions of periventricular nuclei, thalami, and structures of Papez’s circuit, notably the mammillary bodies; and 2) the chronic phase of the syndrome, which resolves into relatively permanent bilateral lesions and enduring global amnesia. In recognition of this linkage, the resulting condition is often referred to as the Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS). The profound amnesia provided a compelling link to neuropsychology and set the stage for dissecting memory’s component processes and identifying its dissociable neural substrates. Why is Study of WE and KS Still important?
Cancer in global health: How do prevention and early detection strategies relate?

National cancer control plans are needed to stem the rapidly rising global cancer burden. Prevention and early detection are complementary but distinct strategies for cancer control. Some cancers are prevented through behavior and/or environmental modifications that reduce cancer risk, whereas other cancers are more amenable to treatment when they are successfully diagnosed at early stages. Prevention and early detection strategies should be prioritized on the basis of country-specific cancer demographics, modifiable risk factor distribution, and existing treatment resource availability. Following an individualized plan integrating prevention and early detection strategies, deficits can be targeted to strengthen national health systems for cancer control.
Canadian and European Unions and the Canada—EU CETA Negotiations

AbstractWithin the context of a deadlocked multilateral trade environment and a global economic crisis, the governments of Canada and the European Union announced in 2009 the beginning of negotiations towards a free trade agreement. It was not until January 2013 that the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) and the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) issued a joint statement on the proposed free trade agreement. Why did it take so long for two central labour bodies to complete a relatively simple task of transnational solidarity, and how were they able to overcome their differences in the end? I argue that it was not the economic, but the political tensions between the two central labour bodies that took time to resolve, and that this was accomplished only as a result of the meaningful expressions of transnational labour solidarity by public sector unions affiliated to the ETUC and the CLC.
Trends in International Education: New Imperatives in Academic Librarianship

The author describes new directions in international education during the past decade and links them to new imperatives in academic librarianship. Five major areas of development are considered: foreign language instruction, study abroad, internationalizing the curriculum, foreign students and scholars, and technical assistance and international development. The author recommends six ways in which ACRL might strengthen its role as an advocate of international education. This article was written in connection with the work of ACRL's task force on international relations.
domestic production and regional markets in northern Kenya

This article examines domestic production/regional market linkages in the Il Chamus (Njemps) area of Baringo District, Kenya. The analysis supplements the spatial/market bias of regional analysis with a greater focus on production, addressing linkages at the homestead, neighborhood, and regional levels. The study argues that the dendritic structure of Baringo's market, which can be traced to the colonial period, inhibits strong linkages between production and marketing. Data are presented from two neighborhoods, Kailerr and Meisori, showing that the critical variable—access to labor—in the local economy is not explained by market relations, and that to understand it by relying on regional analysis is difficult. Because the dendritic market structure so poorly integrates local production, social and historical variables prove to be better indicators of local market response than are economic factors. The article concludes that regional analysis is more suitable as a framework for measuring the discrepancies of particular cases than as a predictive theory of social and economic change. [regional analysis, markets, organization of production, state, East Africa]
Maternal Depression in Home Visitation: A Systematic Review

Depression is prevalent in new mothers and has been shown to have profound negative impacts on parenting, maternal life course, and child development. High rates of maternal depression have been found in home visitation, a widely disseminated prevention approach for high risk mothers and their children. This paper reviews the emerging literature on the prevalence, impact, and treatment of depression in the context of home visitation. Findings are synthesized and methodological and design limitations are considered in interpretation of results. Promising approaches to addressing maternal depression and supporting home visitors in working with this clinical population are described. Recommendations for research and practice are offered that build upon the strong foundation of current efforts in this area.
Modified growth diagrams, permutation pivots, and the BWX map φ

In their paper on Wilf-equivalence for singleton classes, Backelin, West, and Xin introduced a transformation @f^@?, defined by an iterative process and operating on (all) full rook placements on Ferrers boards. Bousquet-Melou and Steingrimsson proved the analogue of the main result of Backelin, West, and Xin in the context of involutions, and in so doing they needed to prove that @f^@? commutes with the operation of taking inverses. The proof of this commutation result was long and difficult, and Bousquet-Melou and Steingrimsson asked if @f^@? might be reformulated in such a way as to make this result obvious. In the present paper we provide such a reformulation of @f^@?, by modifying the growth diagram algorithm of Fomin. This also answers a question of Krattenthaler, who noted that a bijection defined by the unmodified Fomin algorithm obviously commutes with inverses, and asked what the connection is between this bijection and @f^@?.
Hamilton's principle for external viscous fluid-structure interaction

Hamilton’s principle is extended so as to be able to model external #ow}structure interaction. This is accomplished by using Reynold’s Transport theorem. In this form, Hamilton’s principle is hybrid in the sense that it has an analytical part as well as a part that depends on experimentally derived functions. Examples are presented. The discussion on implications and extensions is extensive. In this work, a general theory is developed for the case where the con"guration is not prescribed at the end times of the variational principle. This leads to a single governing equation of motion. This limitation can be removed by prescribing the end times, as usually done. This is outlined in the present paper, and will be the subject of a future paper. A detailed discussion is also presented of the experimental work performed in parallel with and in support of the theoretical developments. As a true #uid-structural model, it is necessary to fully couple the dynamics. This has been the foundation of our formulation. ( 2000 Academic Press