cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the capture of muons in atoms

Abstract In previous calculations on the capture of negative muons in atoms we used the average energy loss per unit path length as a frictional force in the classical equations of motion. In the present note it is shown that the rare events where the muon, because of its high velocity in the inner parts of the atom, loses an energy which is larger than its total energy, are important for the average stopping power. For the calculation of capture ratios these large energy losses should be treated separately. The results differ significantly from those obtained previously, and are in better agreement with experiment.
Assessment of CSMA Radio Support for PLI, C2 and SA in Joint Operations

The Enhanced Position Location Reporting System (EPLRS) is used by the military services for a variety of tactical activities. The U.S. Navy (USN) uses EPLRS to support its Amphibious Assault Direction System, and the U.S. Marine Corps uses the EPLRS radio for tactical data communications to the company level. There are 2 Navy programs; AADS Blue supporting blue, and Data Radio, blue supporting green). We conduct a study of a low fidelity CSMA network model using EPLRS parameters to assess the performance of EPLRS in a joint tactical warfare scenario. This work included modeling and simulation of traffic loads to assess the performance of the EPLRS CSMA communications. This is not an approved EPLRS model; rather it is an approach for assessing the performance of the EPLRS CSMA network2.
Analytic solution of the renormalization equations of the Kosterlitz-Thouless transition

Abstract The Kosterlitz-Thouless renormalization equations are shown to have an analytic solution, for the whole range of their validity. The solution enables us to express one of the previously unknown parameters used for flux-flow resistance in thin film superconductors, in term of the parameters of the Kosterlitz-Thouless transition.
Rejoinder to “The social sub-optimality of competitive elections: comment”

Holcombe’s critque does not contradict the fundamental argument of my original paper. Even if a competitive electoral system is a necessary condition for optimal election results, a competitive election is at best a byproduct of that system rather than the cause of optimal results. Furthermore, a competitive system must still produce non-competitive elections in order to create incentives for candidates to adopt optimal platforms.
An investigation of sources of variation in calcium absorption efficiency.

To examine putative sources of interindividual variation in calcium absorption efficiency, we studied 41 healthy premenopausal women (mean age, 36.4 yr). About half were randomized to pretreatment with supplemental 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD; 20 micrograms/day [corrected] for approximately 34 days) before testing. We measured dietary factors, humoral regulators, intestinal motility, mucosal histology, mucosal vitamin D receptor levels, and calcium absorption efficiency. In winter tests, but not in summer tests, calcium absorption fraction was significantly higher in the pretreated group (mean, 0.465 vs. 0.387). Serum 25OHD, intestinal transit, and urinary calcium to creatinine ratio were all significantly and positively correlated to calcium absorption efficiency. However, neither the level of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D receptors in duodenal mucosa nor circulating 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D was related to calcium absorption efficiency. These findings, which are consistent with other published human data, sugges...
Alkali lasers development at Laser and Optics Research Center of the U.S. Air Force Academy

The Laser and Optics Research Center of the US Air Force Academy started a research program on optically pumped alkali lasers in 2004. We demonstrated the first diode pumped alkali (cesium) vapor laser, the first optically pumped potassium laser, the most efficient (slope efficiency higher than 80%) cesium laser, and diode pumped Rb and Cs lasers with highest output powers (17 W and 48 W respectively). We have developed an efficient Cs amplifier with a small signal amplification factor of 145 and tunable single mode Cs laser for scientific applications. In this paper we present a review of our main results and recent achievements in high power alkali laser development, discuss some problems existing in this field and ways to solve them.
Dynamic polymer ribbon couplers for card-to-backplane optical interconnects

Polymeric waveguides with dynamic coupler array are fabricated by vacuum assisted microfluidic technique for card-to-backplane optical interconnect applications. The dynamic optical coupler on backplane consists of 45° integrated waveguide mirrors and a perpendicular microfluidic channel for flow motion of index matching liquid and air bubbles. Controlled positioning of the air bubble or index matching liquid in contact with the integrated mirror can effectively turn on or off each surface normal waveguide coupler for card-to-backplane optical interconnection. The size of the integrated mirror determines the coupler efficiency. Effective surface normal optical coupling is demonstrated.
Renoprotection, renin inhibition, and blood pressure control: the impact of aliskiren on integrated blood pressure control.

Hypertension (HTN) is an important factor in progressive loss of renal function. The kidney can be both a contributor to and a target of HTN. The functional integrity of the kidney is vital for the maintenance of cardiovascular homeostasis. Chronic activation of the renin system causes HTN and, ultimately, end-organ damage. Direct renin inhibitors (DRIs) inhibit plasma renin activity (PRA), thereby preventing the conversion of angiotensinogen to angiotensin I; consequently, the levels of both Ang I and Ang II are reduced. There is no compensatory increase in PRA activity with DRIs as seen with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). There are reasons to speculate that renin inhibition might prove to be a superior strategy for blocking the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system compared with ACEIs or ARBs. Evidence for the efficacy of aliskiren (a DRI) is considered to be relatively strong, based on published, short-term, double-blind, randomized, controlled trials showing that aliskiren is as effective as other antihypertensive agents in reducing blood pressure (BP), with no rebound effects on BP after treatment withdrawal. When combined with diuretics, fully additive BP reduction is seen. When given with an ACEI or ARB, aliskiren produces significant additional BP reduction indicative of complimentary pharmacology and more complete renin–angiotensin system blockade.
How small system dynamics models can help the public policy process

Public policies often fail to achieve their intended result because of the complexity of both the environment and the policy-making process. In this article, we review the benefits of using small system dynamics models to address public policy questions. First we discuss the main difficulties inherent in the public policy-making process. Then, we discuss how small system dynamics models can address policy-making difficulties by examining two promising examples: the first in the domain of urban planning and the second in the domain of social welfare. These examples show how small models can yield accessible, insightful lessons for policy making stemming from the endogenous and aggregate perspective of system dynamics modeling and simulation. Copyright © 2010 System Dynamics Society.
A Galactoglycerolipid Lipase Is Required for Triacylglycerol Accumulation and Survival Following Nitrogen Deprivation in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Following N deprivation, microalgae accumulate triacylglycerols (TAGs). To gain mechanistic insights into this phenomenon, we identified mutants with reduced TAG content following N deprivation in the model alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. In one of the mutants, the disruption of a galactoglycerolipid lipase-encoding gene, designated PLASTID GALACTOGLYCEROLIPID DEGRADATION1 (PGD1), was responsible for the primary phenotype: reduced TAG content, altered TAG composition, and reduced galactoglycerolipid turnover. The recombinant PGD1 protein, which was purified from Escherichia coli extracts, hydrolyzed monogalactosyldiacylglycerol into its lyso-lipid derivative. In vivo pulse-chase labeling identified galactoglycerolipid pools as a major source of fatty acids esterified in TAGs following N deprivation. Moreover, the fatty acid flux from plastid lipids to TAG was decreased in the pgd1 mutant. Apparently, de novo-synthesized fatty acids in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii are, at least partially, first incorporated into plastid lipids before they enter TAG synthesis. As a secondary effect, the pgd1 mutant exhibited a loss of viability following N deprivation, which could be avoided by blocking photosynthetic electron transport. Thus, the pgd1 mutant provides evidence for an important biological function of TAG synthesis following N deprivation, namely, relieving a detrimental overreduction of the photosynthetic electron transport chain.
Ethyl Formate As a Postharvest Fumigant for Selected Pests of Table Grapes

Ethyl formate (EF) in combination with CO2 was tested for control of arthropods commonly infesting California table grapes. In addition, table grape tolerance to EF exposure was evaluated. LC99 estimates were developed for target pests by using a range of EF concentrations (0.04 Ð 4.7% EF). Response to treatments varied greatly between species, as well as life stages within species. Western sower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), and adult and crawler stages of grape mealybug, Pseudococcus maritimus (Ehrhorn), were most susceptible to EF treatments. Least susceptible were grape mealybug eggs; PaciÞc spider mite, Tetranychus pacificus McGregor; and omnivorous leafroller, Platynota stultana Walsingham. The LC99 for target pests fell within the range of EF concentrations tolerated by table grapes with the exception of 1-, 3-, and 5-d-old omnivorous leafroller pupae.
Origin of the ν Variegated Allele in Nicotiana: Basic Genetics and Frequency

ARIEGATION of flower color due to a recessive allele, v, has been found to arise after hybridization between N. langsdorfii and N. sanderae. An initial description and analysis of this genetic condition has been given by SMITH and SAND ( 195 7) . Within the variegated cultures the altered phenotype is expressed dramatically. Different unstable alleles at the U locus were identified and interpreted to undergo reversible changes between their alternative forms, which may be genetically distinguished. These studies are being continued, and variegated plants have been found useful for comparing the influence of environment on unstable and stable genetic systems (SAND 1957; SAND, SPARROW, and SMITH 1960; SAND 1961, 1962; SAND and SMITH 1968). In the above citations the variegated phenotypes have been illustrated, and references made to an extensive related literature. The alternation between expression and inhibition of anthocyanin pigmentation, characteristic of the variegated plants, suggests that the U allele may be viewed as a lesion in a normal genetic control system. The resulting instability is a phenomenon which cannot be observed under normal conditions, but which becomes subject to investigation in this sensitized system. These variegating events, occurring in the presence of homozygous U, are of considerable interest (as is the genetic persistence of v). However, the primary subject of this paper is the event originuting U, a different phenomenon, which should be distinguished carefully. Knowledge concerning the origin of U could be expected ultimately to aid in understanding its subsequent behavior, in contrast to the behavior of stable genes. This report is offered as a limited contribution towards that goal. The mode of origin of the unstable gene establishes it in a category distinct from conventional genes segregating in the same cultures. The genetics of the interspecific origin is documented, and data are presented estimating new origins of Y at a frequency of 2.3 x It is concluded that the originating event generally occurs during somatic development, and involves a discrete, chromosomal alteration (possibly a small deletion) probably at or near the V locus of either parental species.
Increased intracellular magnesium attenuates β-adrenergic stimulation of the cardiac CaV1.2 channel

Increases in intracellular Mg2+ (Mg2+i), as observed in transient cardiac ischemia, decrease L-type Ca2+ current of mammalian ventricular myocytes (VMs). However, cardiac ischemia is associated with an increase in sympathetic tone, which could stimulate L-type Ca2+ current. Therefore, the effect of Mg2+i on L-type Ca2+ current in the context of increased sympathetic tone was unclear. We tested the impact of increased Mg2+i on the β-adrenergic stimulation of L-type Ca2+ current. Exposure of acutely dissociated adult VMs to higher Mg2+i concentrations decreased isoproterenol stimulation of the L-type Ca2+ current from 75 ± 13% with 0.8 mM Mg2+i to 20 ± 8% with 2.4 mM Mg2+i. We activated this signaling cascade at different steps to determine the site or sites of Mg2+i action. Exposure of VMs to increased Mg2+i attenuated the stimulation of L-type Ca2+ current induced by activation of adenylyl cyclase with forskolin, inhibition of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases with isobutylmethylxanthine, and inhibition of phosphoprotein phosphatases I and IIA with calyculin A. These experiments ruled out significant effects of Mg2+i on these upstream steps in the signaling cascade and suggested that Mg2+i acts directly on CaV1.2 channels. One possible site of action is the EF-hand in the proximal C-terminal domain, just downstream in the signaling cascade from the site of regulation of CaV1.2 channels by protein phosphorylation on the C terminus. Consistent with this hypothesis, Mg2+i had no effect on enhancement of CaV1.2 channel activity by the dihydropyridine agonist (S)-BayK8644, which activates CaV1.2 channels by binding to a site formed by the transmembrane domains of the channel. Collectively, our results suggest that, in transient ischemia, increased Mg2+i reduces stimulation of L-type Ca2+ current by the β-adrenergic receptor by directly acting on CaV1.2 channels in a cell-autonomous manner, effectively decreasing the metabolic stress imposed on VMs until blood flow can be reestablished.
A Cloud and Precipitation Feature Database from Nine Years of TRMM Observations

An event-based method of analyzing the measurements from multiple satellite sensors is presented by using observations of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) precipitation radar (PR), Microwave Imager (TMI), Visible and Infrared Scanner (VIRS), and Lightning Imaging System (LIS). First, the observations from PR, VIRS, TMI, and LIS are temporally and spatially collocated. Then the cloud and precipitation features are defined by grouping contiguous pixels using various criteria, including surface rain, cold infrared, or microwave brightness temperature. The characteristics of measurements from different sensors inside these features are summarized. Then, climatological descriptions of many properties of the identified features are generated. This analysis method condenses the original information of pixellevel measurements into the properties of events, which can greatly increase the efficiency of searching and sorting the observed historical events. Using the TRMM cloud and precipitation feature database, the regional variations of rainfall contribution by features with different size, intensity, and PR reflectivity vertical structure are shown. Above the freezing level, land storms tend to have larger 20-dBZ area and reach higher altitude than is the case for oceanic storms, especially those land storms over central Africa. Horizontal size and the maximum reflectivity of oceanic storms decrease with altitude. For land storms, these intensity measures increase with altitude between 2 km and the freezing level and decrease more slowly with altitude above the freezing level than for ocean storms.
Analytic tracking solutions with range-dependent errors

Simple analytic solutions are presented for track covariance matrices for exoatmospheric (disturbance-free) tracking with measurement errors proportional to a power of range. Also discussed is the use of segmented trajectories for cases in which the range power and other tracking parameters are piecewise constant.
A study of initialization in Linux and OpenBSD

The code that initializes a system can be notoriously difficult to understand. In secure systems, initialization is critical for establishing a starting state that is secure. This paper explores two architectures used for bringing an operating system to its initial state, once the operating system gains control from the boot loader. Specifically, the ways in which the OpenBSD and Linux operating systems handle initialization are dissected.
The open question behind Brazil’s rise on the world stage

Brazil has enjoyed healthy economic growth for the past decade, but a slowdown is underway. Brazil’s rise on the world stage is threatened not only by slowing growth but also by continued inequality, a dysfunctional political system, and modest foreign policy capacity. Together, these issues pose hurdles to Brazil’s rising global leadership.
Dissipation due to obliquity‐induced tides in a Kelvin‐Voigt viscoelastic body

A calculation is conducted regarding the local and total dissipation rate of mechanical energy for an incompressible, Kelvin-Voigt body in a circular orbit with finite obliquity. The considered material is characterized by a shear modulus and a viscosity. Of the two parameters, only the shear modulus is known. An investigation is conducted regarding the variation of the total dissipation rate with viscosity. For small values of the viscosity the Kelvin-Voigt material approximates the behavior of an elastic solid. In this range, results for the earth-moon system are similar to those obtained by Peale and Cassen (1978) using a modified form of the elastic solution. For large values of the viscosity the results are qualitatively different from those in the 'elastic' range, as viscous effects dominate the material response.
A novel mitochondrial protein, Tar1p, is encoded on the antisense strand of the nuclear 25S rDNA

In eukaryotes, it is widely assumed that genes coding for proteins and structural RNAs do not overlap. Using a transposon-tagging strategy to globally analyze the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome for expressed genes, we identified multiple insertions in an open reading frame that is contained fully within and transcribed antisense to the 25S rRNA gene in the nuclear rDNA repeat region on Chromosome XII. Expression of this gene, TAR1 (Transcript Antisense to Ribosomal RNA), can be detected at the RNA and protein levels, and the primary sequence of the corresponding 124-amino-acid protein is conserved in several yeast species. Tar1p was found to localize to mitochondria, and overexpression of the protein suppresses the respiration-deficient petite phenotype of a point mutation in mitochondrial RNA polymerase that affects mitochondrial gene expression and mtDNA stability. These findings indicate that coding information for protein and structural RNAs can overlap, raising issues regarding the coevolution of such complex genes, and also suggest that rDNA transcription and mitochondrial function are coordinately regulated in eukaryotic cells.
Adenosine Receptor–Mediated Adhesion of Endothelial Progenitors to Cardiac Microvascular Endothelial Cells

Intracoronary delivery of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) is an emerging concept for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Enhancement of EPC adhesion to vascular endothelium could improve cell retention within targeted organs. Because extracellular adenosine is elevated at sites of ischemia and stimulates neovascularization, we examined the potential role of adenosine in augmenting EPC retention to cardiac microvascular endothelium. Stimulation of adenosine receptors in murine embryonic EPCs (eEPCs) and cardiac endothelial cells (cECs) rapidly, within minutes, increased eEPC adhesion to cECs under static and flow conditions. Similarly, adhesion of human adult culture-expanded EPCs to human cECs was increased by stimulation of adenosine receptors. Furthermore, adenosine increased eEPC retention in isolated mouse hearts perfused with eEPCs. We determined that eEPCs and cECs preferentially express functional A1 and A2B adenosine receptor subtypes, respectively, and that both subtypes are involved in the regulation of eEPC adhesion to cECs. We documented that the interaction between P-selectin and its ligand (P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1) plays a role in adenosine-dependent eEPC adhesion to cECs and that stimulation of adenosine receptors in cECs induces rapid cell surface expression of P-selectin. Our results suggest a role for adenosine in vasculogenesis and its potential use to stimulate engraftment in cell-based therapies.
Britain at a Cross-road : The EMU Ques tion

Looking back just the last several years it is easy to find the how the differences in EU economies could cause problems in the future. The problems that were experienced during the curiency crises in Italy and Spain in 1992, where the countries had a dicult time keeping inflation rates on a low German level, and more importantly the British currency crisis of 1993, are just a taste of the problems which will arise as the EMU comes closer to reality (DeGrauwe, 1994). This article is available in The Park Place Economist: http://digitalcommons.iwu.edu/parkplace/vol5/iss1/14 Britain at a Cross-road: The EMU Question
Parallel optical nanolithography using nanoscale bowtie aperture array.

We report results of parallel optical nanolithography using nanoscale bowtie aperture array. These nanoscale bowtie aperture arrays are used to focus a laser beam into multiple nanoscale light spots for parallel nano-lithography. Our work employed a frequency-tripled diode-pumped solid state (DPSS) laser (λ = 355 nm) and Shipley S1805 photoresist. An interference-based optical alignment system was employed to position the bowtie aperture arrays with the photoresist surface. Nanoscale direct-writing of sub-100nm features in photoresist in parallel is demonstrated.
The Discourse of the Middle Ground Citizen Shell Commits to Sustainable Development

In this study, Foucauldian theory is used to interpret a corporate social report published by the Royal Dutch/Shell Group to reveal the contours of an emerging corporate discourse of sustainability and the knowledge-power dynamics entailed by social reporting. The report could be read simply as a corporate attempt to reestablish discursive regularity and hegemonic control in the wake of challenges by environmentalists and human rights activists. However, the author interprets it in the context of the larger sociopolitical discursive struggle over environment and social justice and finds that Shell’s “embrace” of the concept of sustainable development has transforming effects on the company and on the notion of sustainability itself. This contradictory and ambiguous result is characteristic of discursive struggle, which is where, according to Foucault, power is played out and social change occurs.
Physician-Ordered Aerosol Therapy Versus Respiratory Therapist-Driven Aerosol Protocol: The Effect on Resource Utilization

BACKGROUND: The utilization of respiratory therapist (RT) driven protocols for single interventions, such as oxygen titration and bronchopulmonary hygiene, and protocols consisting of multiple interventions have been associated with improvements in resource utilization. Based on this, we started a quality improvement project to transition the delivery of respiratory care services from physician-ordered treatments to RT-driven protocols. During the first phase of our quality improvement project, we compared the frequency of bronchodilator administration and its associated costs, between a physician-ordered bronchodilator strategy and a RT-driven bronchodilator protocol strategy. METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data obtained during the initial phase of a quality improvement project. Over a period of 2 weeks, RTs administered physician-ordered bronchodilator treatments. During this time they assessed the subjects’ clinical status and what they would have recommended in regard to bronchodilator treatment frequency following an RT-driven protocol. RESULTS: Forty-eight subjects were ordered bronchodilator treatments, which resulted in 88 assessments. The utilization of a protocol would have resulted in 42 (47.7%) bronchodilator orders administered “every 6 hours, as needed,” and 27 (30.6%) orders administered “every 8 hours,” compared with 2 (2.2%) and 2 (2.2%), respectively, in the physician-ordered group (P < .001). Conversely, physician-ordered treatments were prescribed “every 4 hours” in 56 (63.6%) cases, compared with 10 (11.3%) in the RT-driven protocol group (P < .001). Total bronchodilator therapy cost in the physician-ordered group was $1,672.85,whereasitwouldhavebeen$904.53intheRT-drivenone.Perpatientcostswere$19.06.9 in the physician-ordered group, and would have been $10.3 9.4 in the RT-driven bronchodilator protocol group (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: The application of an RT-driven bronchodilator protocol can hypothetically reduce the frequency of bronchodilator treatments, compared with a physician-ordered strategy, resulting in a theoretical reduction of costs in patients who require
PRICE EFFECTS OF INDIRECT AND CORPORATE INCOME TAXES: AN INPUT-OUTPUT ANALYSIS*

This article investigates the price effects of indirect and corporate income taxes in the U.S. economy. It uses data from an input-output table from 1977. The lack of substantial agreement in the literature concerning the incidence of these taxes, the classical, market power and industry specific models are used in an effort to identify the plausible range of price variations caused by taxation. This investigation is enlarged with the incorporation of the differential tax incidence analysis. The usefulness of this analysis is that it can shed new light on tax reform proposals and their concomitant effects on prices, workers' purchasing power, and international trade patterns.
The Emperor's New Security Indicators

We evaluate Website authentication measures that are designed to protect users from man-in-the-middle, 'phishing', and other site forgery attacks. We asked 67 bank customers to conduct common online banking tasks. Each time they logged in, we presented increasingly alarming clues that their connection was insecure. First, we removed HTTPS indicators. Next, we removed the participant's site-authentication image--the customer-selected image that many Websites now expect their users to verify before entering their passwords. Finally, we replaced the bank's password-entry page with a warning page. After each clue, we determined whether participants entered their passwords or withheld them. We also investigate how a study's design affects participant behavior: we asked some participants to play a role and others to use their own accounts and passwords. We also presented some participants with security-focused instructions. We confirm prior findings that users ignore HTTPS indicators: no participants withheld their passwords when these indicators were removed. We present the first empirical investigation of site-authentication images, and we find them to be ineffective: even when we removed them, 23 of the 25 (92%) participants who used their own accounts entered their passwords. We also contribute the first empirical evidence that role playing affects participants' security behavior: role-playing participants behaved significantly less securely than those using their own passwords.
RESEARCH IN PHYSICS

Nearly all the results of modern research are published in short technical articles, of interest only to those who are working in the same or allied fields. Occasionally, some man, well versed in the details of subject, will summarize the work of a given field in a book. If it is well written by one who combines with thorough knowledge of the subject the imagination necessary to view the work in its proper perspective and to give it a setting among more familiar realities, the book is welcomed by all students of physics. Unfortunately, there are not many such books, but when one does appear this department will call attention to the fact.
Effects of monomer functionality on switchable holographic gratings formed in polymer-dispersed liquid-crystal cells.

Switching characteristics: The 633 nm wavelength of an He–Ne laser is used to fabricate holographic transmission gratings in polymer-dispersed liquid-crystal cells. The microstructure and diffraction efficiency (η) both improve with increasing functionality (see figure). For functionalities of 2.5 or more, η approaches 34 % and can be switched off with electric fields of about 20 MV m−1. We investigate the effects of monomer functionality on the formation and switching characteristics of holographic transmission gratings in polymer-dispersed liquid-crystal cells fabricated by using the 633 nm wavelength of an He–Ne laser. We present results for the microstructure, diffraction efficiency η, and switching characteristics of gratings formed with acrylate monomers of functionalities ranging from 2 to 4. The microstructure and diffraction efficiency are sensitive to functionality; both improve with increasing functionality. For functionalities of 2.5 or more, η approaches 34 % and can be switched off with electric fields of about 20 MV m−1.
Natural Resource Service Learning to Link Students, Communities, and the Land

University-based Extension specialists often face the dilemma of scheduling time for both teaching and outreach activities. Service learning projects that give hands-on experience in the application of classroom activities while giving back to the community can bridge this gap. A demonstration forest and service learning techniques were used to help 30 undergraduate forestry students lead a forestry field day for 100 elementary school students. Upon completion of the project, undergraduate students were more confident in their forestry knowledge and played an important role in the success of a natural resources Extension demonstration and outreach project.
Nonrefundable Fees; The Substance, Not the Label Matters

Occasionally, when I am dealing with the issue of nonrefundable fees in the law school course of Professional Responsibility, a student will tell me that a certain fee in a certain case is not refundable because the attorney told the client that the fee was nonrefundable. The issue of whether a fee paid to an attorney is refundable is a bit more complex than simply looking to the attorney's label. A client is not barred from recovering a part of a legal fee just because an attorney identifies it as nonrefundable to a client. Rather, the substantive nature of the client's payment determines whether the client's payment is refundable. Even so, many clients may be misled by the label used by attorneys and may not realize that they are entitled to recover at least some of the so-called nonrefundable fee. Much of the confusion in this area results from a very loose use of the terms, nonrefundable and retainer. Attorneys refer to payments as nonrefundable when the payments are, ultimately, refundable. Some practitioners who wrongly identify a fee as nonrefundable are, perhaps, bad actors who are intentionally trying to mislead clients. I speculate that most practitioners who wrongly identify a fee as nonrefundable simply do not understand the law of fees.
Learning dynamics for mechanism design: An experimental comparison of public goods mechanisms

In a repeated-interaction public goods economy, incomplete information and dynamic behavior may affect the realized outcomes of mechanisms known to be efficient in a complete information oneshot game. An experimental test of five public goods mechanisms indicates that subjects with private information appear to best respond to recent observations. This provides predictions about which mechanisms will generate convergence to their efficient equilibrium allocations. These predictions match the experimental result that globally stable efficient mechanisms realize the highest efficiency in practice. The simplicity of the suggested best response model makes it useful in predicting stability of mechanisms not yet tested.
Topiramate and Cognitive Function in Migraine

Researchers at the Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical Research & Development, New Jersey and Belgium, and University of California, Los Angeles, CA used the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) and cognitive adverse events to evaluate neurocognitive effects of topiramate 100 mg/day vs placebo in 70 migraine patients aged 12 through 17 years.
Fluorescent Nanodiamonds from Molecular Diamond Seed

We present a new materials growth technique using diamondoid molecular diamonds as a seed for chemical vapor deposition growth. We show that both nanoscopic high quality diamond crystals with silicon vacancy color centers can be grown from self-assembled monolayers of pentamantane (C26H32).
High Resolution Coherent 2D Spectroscopy

The purpose of this article is to describe recent progress on the use of coherent two-dimensional spectroscopy for investigating the electronic spectroscopy of gas phase molecules. Unlike conventional high resolution spectra where peaks are distributed along a single axis, high resolution coherent 2D spectra reveal informative patterns along two orthogonal frequency domains. The technique can successfully produce these patterns in situations where one-dimensional spectra appear patternless due to complexity and congestion. Molecular spectra that are difficult to analyze because of strongly perturbing effects (e.g., conical intersections) may be studied using this new technique. Several innovations, such as the ability to graphically separate rotational and vibrational information by clustering peaks and the ability to use multiple clusters to overcome spectral congestion help provide high resolution coherent 2D spectroscopy with the ability to analyze spectra that have previously resisted analysis.
Black Pineleaf Scale (Homoptera: Diaspididae) Population Density in Relation to Interdemic Mating

Density of black pineleaf scale, Nuculaspis californica (Coleman), insects populating ponderosa pine varies with distances separating sampled twigs from foliage of adjacent infested trees. Scale densities on needles touching or resting within 10 cm of needles from a neighboring infested tree were significantly lower and more variable than densities on more distant twigs from the same pine. This result is consistent with the hypothesis that interdemic mating between scale insects adapted to the defensive pattern of different individual host trees introduces locally maladaptive traits. Both reductions in scale density and sex ratio patterns reported previously suggest an outbreeding depression resulting from this interdemic gene flow.
Probability Distributions for Compound Nuclear Fluctuations in Vector Analyzing Powers

Compound nuclear (CN) fluctuations in the cross section σ(E,θ) are frequently analyzed by writing σ(E,θ) as a sum of “basic cross sections” σα(E,θ), where a labels channel spins.1) However, the assumptions underlying this method may be invalid for projectiles with spin; moreover, the formalism does not generalize to analyzing powers.
Spin-transfer torque switched magnetic tunnel junctions in magnetic random access memory

Spin-transfer torque (or spin-torque, or STT) based magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) is at the heart of a new generation of magnetism-based solid-state memory, the so-called spin-transfer-torque magnetic random access memory, or STT-MRAM. Over the past decades, STT-based switchable magnetic tunnel junction has seen progress on many fronts, including the discovery of (001) MgO as the most favored tunnel barrier, which together with (bcc) Fe or FeCo alloy are yielding best demonstrated tunnel magneto-resistance (TMR); the development of perpendicularly magnetized ultrathin CoFeB-type of thin films sufficient to support high density memories with junction sizes demonstrated down to 11nm in diameter; and record-low spin-torque switching threshold current, giving best reported switching efficiency over 5 kBT/μA. Here we review the basic device properties focusing on the perpendicularly magnetized MTJs, both in terms of switching efficiency as measured by sub-threshold, quasi-static methods, and of switching speed at super-threshold, forced switching. We focus on device behaviors important for memory applications that are rooted in fundamental device physics, which highlights the trade-off of device parameters for best suitable system integration.
Lessons on Political Violence from America’s Post–9/11 Wars:

A large literature has emerged in political science that studies the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. This article summarizes the lessons learned from this literature, both theoretical and practical. ...
General Structure–Reactivity Relationship for Oxygen on Transition-Metal Oxides

Despite many recent developments in designing and screening catalysts for improved performance, transition-metal oxides continue to prove to be challenging due to the myriad inherent complexities of the systems and the possible morphologies that they can exhibit. Herein we propose a structural descriptor, the adjusted coordination number (ACN), which can generalize the reactivity of the oxygen sites over the many possible surface facets and defects of a transition-metal oxide. We demonstrate the strong correlation of this geometric descriptor with the electronic and energetic properties of the active sites on five facets of four transition-metal oxides. We then use the structural descriptor to predict C–H activation energies to show the great potential of using ACN for the prediction of catalytic performance. This study presents a first look into quantifying the relation between active site structure and reactivity of transition-metal-oxide catalysts.
An Internet of Things approach to electrical power monitoring and outage reporting

The so-called Internet of Things concept has captured much attention recently as ordinary devices are connected to the Internet for monitoring and control purposes. One enabling technology is the proliferation of low-cost, single board computers with built-in network interfaces. Some of these are capable of hosting full-fledged operating systems that provide rich programming environments. Taken together, these features enable inexpensive solutions for even traditional tasks such as the one presented here for electrical power monitoring and outage reporting.
A high-frequency high-step-down converter with coupled inductor for low power applications

This paper proposed a new topology that can achieve high-step-down conversion compared with traditional buck converter. A coupled inductor is employed to extend duty cycle which is for high-step-down applications. Soft-switching of all switches can be achieved. A prototype with 24 V input 5 V/2 A output is given to verify the circuit operation. Switching frequency is up to 1.3 MHz to minimize magnetics size. The peak efficiency can reach to 87 %.
Laser Treatment in Ethnic Skin

The proper use and administration of laser procedures in darker skinned patients differ from that in those with lighter skin types in several ways. Largely, the higher epidermal melanin content introduces a constant competing chromophore and increases the risk for complications. Consequently, it is a challenge for physicians when treating darker skin types to temper effective treatment with minimal risk to the patient. However, with proper physician training, appropriate laser and laser parameter selections, and suitable patient selection, excellent results can be obtained. Laser procedures can be safely used for a wide variety of conditions including vascular lesions, hair removal, pigmentary disorders, photoaging, and scars.
Of Filth, Feces and Fornication: the Aesthetics of Abjection in Os Maias

This article provides an alternative reading of one of Eca’s most widely read and discussed texts, Os Maias , by challenging the common interpretation of the text as primarily about the incestuous relationship between the siblings Carlos and Maria Eduarda. Through a discussion of the aesthetics of abjection present throughout the novel, this study de- emphasizes the incest trope in order to examine Os Maias as a coherent text of abjection in which incest becomes part of a greater abject whole. Drawing from Julia Kristeva, this article discusses bodily abjection as a reaction to unwanted circumstances that are symptomatic of fin-de-siecle degeneracy.
Improving Student Learning Through an Interdisciplinary Case Study: Exploring Eutrophication in Lake Erie

This pedagogical project examined how embedding an interdisciplinary case study in an undergraduate ecology course impacted student learning outcomes. Specifically, we examined learning outcomes following participation in a group-based case study project, which asked students to adopt the role of an expert phycologist, microbiologist, agronomist, or limnologist in order to jointly investigate the problem of eutrophication in Lake Erie. We examined student learning outcomes on exam questions that tested students’ knowledge of eutrophication compared to their performance on exam questions that tested knowledge of course content taught using traditional lecture-based methods. We also examined how students’ recognition of the value of interdisciplinary approaches to solving science problems changed across the semester, as well as changes in students’ views of the ways in which the skills and knowledge of their major could contribute to solving eutrophication problems and the complex problem of climate change. Results indicated significant increases in student understanding of eutrophication through comparisons of pre- and posttest scores, and dramatic twofold increases in student learning on the eutrophication exam questions relative to the content taught using traditional instructional methods. Interestingly, at the end of the course, the non-science majors in the course were more likely to endorse interdisciplinary approaches for solving complex science problems than were the science majors in the course. Implications for educational practices for both major and nonmajor science courses are discussed.
From cybernetics to brain theory, and more: A memoir

Abstract While structured as an autobiography, this memoir exemplifies ways in which classic contributions to cybernetics (e.g., by Wiener, McCulloch & Pitts, and von Neumann) have fed into a diversity of current research areas, including the mathematical theory of systems and computation, artificial intelligence and robotics, computational neuroscience, linguistics, and cognitive science. The challenges of brain theory receive special emphasis. Action-oriented perception and schema theory complement neural network modeling in analyzing cerebral cortex, cerebellum, hippocampus, and basal ganglia. Comparative studies of frog, rat, monkey, ape and human not only deepen insights into the human brain but also ground an EvoDevoSocio view of “how the brain got language.” The rapprochement between neuroscience and architecture provides a recent challenge. The essay also assesses some of the social and theological implications of this broad perspective.
Ethylene Carbonate-Based Electrolyte Decomposition and Solid-Electrolyte Interphase Formation on Ca Metal Anodes

The formation of a solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI) in multivalent ion batteries, resulting from the decomposition of organic solvents at the anode interface, is a major bottleneck to their development as it prevents ionic diffusion and reversible stripping and plating. To gain insight into SEI formation in these systems, we investigate the decomposition of pure ethylene carbonate (EC) and an EC/Ca(ClO4)2 electrolyte on a Ca metal surface using density functional theory and ab initio molecular dynamics calculations. We first find that CaCO3, CaO, and Ca(OH)2 are all primary inorganic SEI components. We then investigate the reaction mechanisms of this decomposition, finding that although a fast two-electron reduction producing CO32– and C2H4 is thermodynamically and kinetically favorable, a reaction producing C2H4O22– and CO dominates when multiple EC molecules are considered. Finally, we find similar results upon the inclusion of Ca(ClO4)2 salt.
State of knowledge on action of food restriction and aging.

Approximately 50 years have passed since McCay and Crowsll (1934) published their findings that restriction of the amount of food consumed by rats resulted in some individuals reaching an extremely old age and a population of rats with a greater mean age at death than was the case for rats fed ad libitum. This finding has often been repeated in mice and rats as well as in lower vertebrates and invertebrates (Barrows and Kokkonen, 1977). Although McCay and Crowell (1934) used severe food restriction which markedly slowed skeletal growth and delayed sexual maturation, Berg and Simms (1960) subsequently showed that moderate levels of restriction, not markedly influencing skeletal growth or sexual maturation, were also effective. However, severe restriction increases life span more than moderate restriction (Masoro, 1984b). Of all experimental manipulations so far studied, food restriction is by far the most effective in extending the life span of mammalian species (Sacher, 1977).
Burris Frederic Skinner

In his bombastic style of writing, Skinner wrote that most, if not all, of religion is engaged in learned superstitious behaviors. The complexity of religious practices, e.g., social learning, does not support his superstitious hypothesis. According to Skinner, religions do serve an important service to society. He believed that the creation of an omniscient God and heaven/hell were particularly strong consequences because people internalize these concepts and they are less apt to engage in sinful behaviors.
The Non-collision Sigularities of the 5 body Problem

This paper is a survey on the author’s work on the non-collision singularities in the Newtonian n-body problem. The non-collision singularity in the n-body system corresponds to the solution which blow up to infinity in finite time. The question whether there exists such solution was first raised by Painleve in the last century and since then, it has been open. Here, we show that such solutions do exist in a 5-body problem. The method we use is based on careful analysis of near collisions orbits and McGehee’s technique of blowing up collision singularities.
Tear Tests of 5083 Plate and of 5183 Welds in 5083 Plate and Extrusions

As a lead-in to the use of 5083 for liquefied natural gas tanks [1], a special series of fracture tests was ran to substantiate that the alloy has high tear resistance in the relatively thick sections in which it would be used in the structure. These tests were similar in nature to the tear tests which have been made for years [2], but covered a much wider range of variables, viz., (1) much thicker material., (2) specimens from the heat-affected zone as well as the parent metal and the welds, (3) welds made automatically, semiautomatically, and in different positions (flat, vertical, horizontal), and (4) welds in extruded shapes as well as plate. The purposes of this paper are to describe the test procedures, present the results, and discuss their meaning as an indication of the toughness of 5083 for engineering structures.