cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interfacial Effects on Transport Coefficient Measurements in Li-ion Battery Electrolytes

Author(s): Bergstrom, HK; Fong, KD; McCloskey, BD | Abstract: Development of Li+-containing electrolytes with improved transport properties requires reliable, reproducible, and ideally low volume techniques to rigorously understand ion-transport with varying composition. Precisely measuring the complete set of transport coefficients in liquid electrolytes under battery-relevant operating conditions is difficult and the reliability of these methods are sparsely described in electrolyte transport literature. In this work, we apply a potentiostatic polarization-based transport characterization approach typically used for polymer electrolytes to liquid electrolyte systems in an attempt to fully measure all transport coefficients (conductivity, total salt diffusion coefficient, thermodynamic factor and transference number) for the model system of LiPF6 in an ethylene carbonate - ethyl methyl carbonate (EC:EMC) mixture. Using systematic timescale and statistical analyses, we find that transport coefficients measured using potentiostatic polarization of Li-Li symmetric cells exhibit strong correlation to Li electrode interfacial resistance, indicating that such methods are probing both bulk and interfacial phenomena. This reveals a major roadblock in characterizing electrolyte systems where the interfacial resistance is significantly larger than ohmic electrolyte resistance. As a result, we find that methods that rely on potentiostatic Li metal stripping/plating do not readily result in reliable liquid electrolyte transport coefficients, unlike similar methods for solid polymer electrolytes, where interfacial resistances are typically smaller than electrolyte resistances at the elevated temperatures typically of interest for such electrolytes.
A Computational Model of Representation Learning in the Brain Cortex, Integrating Unsupervised and Reinforcement Learning.

A common view on the brain learning processes proposes that the three classic learning paradigms -- unsupervised, reinforcement, and supervised -- take place in respectively the cortex, the basal-ganglia, and the cerebellum. However, dopamine outbursts, usually assumed to encode reward, are not limited to the basal ganglia but also reach prefrontal, motor, and higher sensory cortices. We propose that in the cortex the same reward-based trial-and-error processes might support not only the acquisition of motor representations but also of sensory representations. In particular, reward signals might guide trial-and-error processes that mix with associative learning processes to support the acquisition of representations better serving downstream action selection. We tested the soundness of this hypothesis with a computational model that integrates unsupervised learning (Contrastive Divergence) and reinforcement learning (REINFORCE). The model was tested with a task requiring different responses to different visual images grouped in categories involving either colour, shape, or size. Results show that a balanced mix of unsupervised and reinforcement learning processes leads to the best performance. Indeed, excessive unsupervised learning tends to under-represent task-relevant features while excessive reinforcement learning tends to initially learn slowly and then to incur in local minima. These results stimulate future empirical studies on category learning directed to investigate similar effects in the extrastriate visual cortices. Moreover, they prompt further computational investigations directed to study the possible advantages of integrating unsupervised and reinforcement learning processes.
Optimization of Recessed and Elevated Silicide Source/Drain Contact Structure Using Physical Compact Resistance Modeling and Simulation in Ultra-Thin Body SOI MOSFETs

Optimization of source/drain (S/D) extrinsic resistance of ultra-thin body (UTB) silicon-on-insulator (SOI) MOSFETs with recessed and/or elevated suicide contact structure is investigated through new simplified physical compact modeling and 2-dimensional simulation calibrated with 90-nm SOI technology. It is found that the optimum suicide contact can be located below SOI layer surface in elevated contact structure if effective contact length is highly scaled. The closed-form analytical expressions provide a simple guideline for suicide contact design with respect to SOI thickness and contact length in self-aligned suicide technology.
Diagrammatic Student Models: Modeling Student Drawing Performance with Deep Learning

Recent years have seen a growing interest in the role that student drawing can play in learning. Because drawing has been shown to contribute to students’ learning and increase their engagement, developing student models to dynamically support drawing holds significant promise. To this end, we introduce diagrammatic student models, which reason about students’ drawing trajectories to generate a series of predictions about their conceptual knowledge based on their evolving sketches. The diagrammatic student modeling framework utilizes deep learning, a family of machine learning methods based on a deep neural network architecture, to reason about sequences of student drawing actions encoded with temporal and topological features. An evaluation of the deep-learning-based diagrammatic student models suggests that it can predict student performance more accurately and earlier than competitive baseline approaches.
Hydrated minerals on Endeavour Crater's rim and interior, and surrounding plains: New insights from CRISM data

[1] We have conducted a spectroscopic analysis of the rim and interior of Endeavour Crater using CRISM data in order to further constrain the mineralogical variability in the area and to identify targets of interest for in-situanalysis by Opportunity. Our analysis reveals that the spectral character of both the sulfates and the phyllosilicates in the area is more diverse than has been reported to date, with phyllosilicates present on the rim and interior of Endeavour crater as well as on the surrounding plains. Spectra of the sulfates adjacent to the rim and in the crater's interior mound exhibit features that are consistent with a component of Ca-sulfates. The spectral character of the phyllosilicates is consistent with that of Fe/Mg smectites, but there are clear spectral differences between the rim and interior phyllosilicates. Specifically, the phyllosilicates found inside the crater exhibit shallower, more rounded Fe/Mg-OH bands, a subtle 1.9μm hydration band, and a strong 1–2 μm spectral slope relative to the phyllosilicates on the rim, suggesting that they have experienced modification relative to the rim phyllosilicates. This modification may be attributed either to alteration via acidic leaching or to dehydration. Stratigraphically, we find that these altered phyllosilicates unconformably overlie the sulfate-bearing mound material, suggesting that they were emplaced by the reworking of rim phyllosilicates after the interior mound had reached its present day form.
Re-optimizing data-parallel computing

Performant execution of data-parallel jobs needs good execution plans. Certain properties of the code, the data, and the interaction between them are crucial to generate these plans. Yet, these properties are difficult to estimate due to the highly distributed nature of these frameworks, the freedom that allows users to specify arbitrary code as operations on the data, and since jobs in modern clusters have evolved beyond single map and reduce phases to logical graphs of operations. Using fixed apriori estimates of these properties to choose execution plans, as modern systems do, leads to poor performance in several instances. We present RoPE, a first step towards re-optimizing data-parallel jobs. RoPE collects certain code and data properties by piggybacking on job execution. It adapts execution plans by feeding these properties to a query optimizer. We show how this improves the future invocations of the same (and similar) jobs and characterize the scenarios of benefit. Experiments on Bing's production clusters show up to 2× improvement across response time for production jobs at the 75th percentile while using 1.5× fewer resources.
Uncertainties and importance of sea spray composition on aerosol direct and indirect effects

[1] Although ocean-derived aerosols play a critical role in modifying the radiative balance over much of the Earth, their sources are still subject to large uncertainties, concerning not only their total mass flux but also their size distribution and chemical composition. These uncertainties are linked primarily to their source drivers, which is mainly wind speed, but are also linked to other factors, such as the presence of organic compounds in sea spray in addition to sea salt. In order to quantify these uncertainties and identify the larger knowledge gaps, we performed several model runs with online calculation of aerosol sources, removal, and underlying climate. In these simulations, both the direct and indirect aerosol effects on climate are included. The oceanic source of organic aerosols was found to be heavily dependent on the sea-salt parameterization selected. For only a factor of 2 change in assumed fine-mode sea-salt size, a factor of 10 difference in mass emissions was calculated for both sea salt and primary oceanic organics. The annual emissions of oceanic organics were calculated to range from 7.5 to 76 Tg yr-1. The model's performance against remote oceanic measurements was greatly improved when including the high estimates of organics. However, the uncertainty could not be further reduced by bulk sea-salt measurements alone since most parameterizations tested agree reasonably well with measurements of both the (coarse-mode-dominated) sea salt and aerosol optical depth due to large changes in lifetime and optical properties of aerosols when different aerosol sizes are used.
Bank-led restructuring in Poland : an empirical look at the bank conciliation process

Since 1992, Poland has been considered a model of commercial banking reform among transition economies. Its Enterprise and Bank Restructuring Program (EBRP) tried to force state-owned commercial banks to build institutional capacity and to resolve problem loans through workouts, liquidation, loan sales, or pay back. The authors reviewed the process and initial outcomes of the bank-led conciliation process. A companion paper looks at experience with the other resolution paths under the EBRP. The outcome is decidedly mixed. The EBRP forced banks to confront their problems, helped them build institutional capacity, and furthered the task of weeding out and closing unviable firms. Despite these strengths, the data suggest that the bank-led conciliation process has had limited power to promote firm restructuring or privatization. The agreements themselves included few tangible requirements for operational or management change. The first two years of implementation saw a slowdown in the layoffs rate, a decline in average operating profitability, and little real privatization. The main impact of conciliation appears to have been to reduce debt service. Weaker banks tended to be more lenient, swapping more debt for equity, and had greater difficulty forecasting future enterprise performance. The EBRP was a good start, but continued work is needed to build strong banks that can impose effective corporate governance on enterprises that need to restructure.
Numerical Methods Of Statistics

This book explains how computer software is designed to perform the tasks required for sophisticated statistical analysis. For statisticians, it examines the nitty-gritty computational problems behind statistical methods. For mathematicians and computer scientists, it looks at the application of mathematical tools to statistical problems. The first half of the book offers a basic background in numerical analysis that emphasizes issues important to statisticians. The next several chapters cover a broad array of statistical tools, such as maximum likelihood and nonlinear regression. The author also treats the application of numerical tools; numerical integration and random number generation are explained in a unified manner reflecting complementary views of Monte Carlo methods. Each chapter contains exercises that range from simple questions to research problems. Most of the examples are accompanied by demonstration and source code available in from the author's Web site. New in this second edition are demonstrations coded in R, as well as new sections on linear programming and the Nelder-Mead search algorithm.
Translocation of interleukin-1β into a vesicle intermediate in autophagy-mediated secretion

Recent evidence suggests that autophagy facilitates the unconventional secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 1β (IL-1β). Here, we reconstituted an autophagy-regulated secretion of mature IL-1β (m-IL-1β) in non-macrophage cells. We found that cytoplasmic IL-1β associates with the autophagosome and m-IL-1β enters into the lumen of a vesicle intermediate but not into the cytoplasmic interior formed by engulfment of the autophagic membrane. In advance of secretion, m-IL-1β appears to be translocated across a membrane in an event that may require m-IL-1β to be unfolded or remain conformationally flexible and is dependent on two KFERQ-like motifs essential for the association of IL-1β with HSP90. A vesicle, possibly a precursor of the phagophore, contains translocated m-IL-1β and later turns into an autophagosome in which m-IL-1β resides within the intermembrane space of the double-membrane structure. Completion of IL-1β secretion requires Golgi reassembly and stacking proteins (GRASPs) and multi-vesicular body (MVB) formation.
Free-radical-mediated postischemic reperfusion injury in the kidney*

Acute tubular necrosis is a frequent occurrence following hypovolemic shock and human renal transplantation. Although this postischemic injury was originally thought to result from ischemia alone, it has recently been recognized that significant tissue injury can occur during the period of reperfusion. The demonstration of the oxygen free-radical-mediated postischemic reperfusion injury by Granger, Rutili, and McCord in ischemic cat intestine suggested that this mechanism might also be operative following renal ischemia. In the kidney, postischemic injury results in necrosis of the proximal renal tubule and accumulation of erythrocytes in the outer renal medulla. It has been proposed that the primary event leading to these pathologic changes is a free-radical-mediated injury to the endothelial cells in the inner stripe of the outer medulla. Experimental evidence in animals subjected to warm and cold ischemia supports a free-radical-mediated mechanism. The clinical significance of these findings is demonstrated in preclinical animal studies of renal transplantation in which approximately two-thirds of the injury following cold ischemia could be ablated by superoxide dismutase administered just prior to reperfusion or by allopurinol when administered both at the time of preservation and reperfusion or at the time of preservation alone.
Maasai identity on the periphery

This article examines ethnic identity among the Maasai-related II Chamus of Baringo District, Kenya. Through an analysis of land policies, it shows how colonialism forged identities and boundaries that had scarcely existed in the 19th century. These are now fiercely defended on the basis of “tradition.” By examining how identities are shaped by power, the article contributes to the understanding of the political nature of ethnicity and the “ethnic” conflict in Kenya.
Effects of weight status on the recommendations of and adherence to lifestyle modifications among hypertensive adults

Overweight and obese hypertensive patients can greatly benefit from high adherence rates for lifestyle modifications. The objectives of this paper were to investigate how patients' weight status affected physicians' recommendations of lifestyle modifications and patients' adherence after they received the recommendations. The patients were adults (18+ years of age) with hypertension (prehypertension, Stage I and Stage II hypertension). The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1999–2000 was used. Weight status was categorized as normal/underweight, overweight and obese. Physicians' recommendations of and patients' adherence to lifestyle modifications (weight control, exercise, sodium intake reduction, alcohol intake reduction) were examined using descriptive and multivariate analyses, controlling for weight status, hypertension stage, comorbidities and demographic characteristics. About 57.0% of the US adult population in 1999–2000 had prehypertension, Stages I or II hypertension. Among the hypertensive adults, 30.3% were normal/underweight, 32.6% were overweight and 37.2% were obese. We found that physicians were more aggressive in recommending lifestyle modification for obese patients. In contrast, obese hypertensive patients were not found to be more likely than normal/underweight patients to adhere to lifestyle modification recommendations. In addition, adherence rates for sodium and alcohol consumption reduction were higher than that for either exercise or weight control. In conclusion, more aggressive approaches should be taken by physicians to educate obese patients about the benefits of lifestyle modifications and to improve adherence to enhance the effects of antihypertensive medications.
Effects of C21 steroids on sex accessory organs and testes of mature hypophysectomized rats.

Adult hypophysectomized male rats were treated with 2 mg⁄day of testosterone propionate, pregnenolone, 17α-hydroxypregnenolone, progesterone or 17α-hydroxyprogesterone. The treatment commenced on the day of surgery and was continued for 4 weeks. In all steroid treated animals, spermatogenesis was qualitatively maintained. Sex accessory organs were maintained only in testosterone propionate treated animals. In C21 steroid-treated rats the sex accessory organs showed atrophy similar to untreated hypophysectomized animals suggesting lack of peripheral conversion to androgens. However, administration of 3Hpregnenolone with the last injection of pregnenolone resulted in the isolation of a considerable amount of 3H-testosterone from testicular tissue of the experimental animals. This finding suggests that maintenance of spermatogenesis in pregnenolone treated animals could have been due to testosterone formed in the testes from the exogenously administered pregnenolone. (Endocrinology 96: 1319, 1975)
Percent predicted lung volumes as measured on fetal magnetic resonance imaging: a useful biometric parameter for risk stratification in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Abstract Purpose This study was aimed at determining whether a new method of analyzing lung volumes on fetal magnetic resonance (MR) imaging could be used to predict the degree of pulmonary compromise in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Methods Seventeen fetuses with CDH were prospectively evaluated by MR. Lung volumes were measured using an established technique and expressed as a percentage of the predicted lung volume (PPLV). Predicted lung volume was determined by subtracting measured mediastinal volume from total measured thoracic volume. The PPLV was correlated with postnatal outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed using the Mann-Whitney, Spearman correlation, or Fisher exact tests ( P Results Of the 14 liveborn patients, the PPLV was 20.3±10.4 (gestational age at MR, 22.3 ± 5.7 weeks). The PPLV was significantly associated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) use, hospital length of stay, and survival. All patients with a PPLV of less than 15 required prolonged ECMO support and had a 40% survival rate. In contrast, only 11% of patients with a PPLV of greater than 15 required ECMO, and survival was 100%. Conclusion The PPLV as measured by fetal MR imaging can accurately predict disease severity in CDH. A value of less than 15 is associated with a significantly higher risk for prolonged support and/or death, despite aggressive postnatal management.
The relative abundances of silicon hydride clusters, SinHx− (n = 8–12 and 0 ≤ x ≤ 25), investigated with high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry

Abstract Results are presented of a high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometric study on large silicon hydride cluster anions, Si n H x − (where n = 8–12, 0 ≤ x ≤ 25). The clusters were produced via the reactions between a dilute silane gas mixture and a laser-induced transition metal plasma. Extensive degrees of hydrogenation were observed for larger Si n − clusters, with an onset appearing around Si 8 − and continuing on into the Si 12 − series. The relative abundances of the majority isotopes constituting a precise mass were completely analyzed allowing qualitative assessments of the stability for a particular Si n H x − cluster to be ascertained. The Si n H x − clusters are observed to possess varying abundances depending on the extent of hydrogenation and the number of silicon atoms constituting the cluster. Specific clusters, which exhibited enhanced stability in the molecular beam, are Si 8 H 6 − , Si 8 H 8 − , Si 9 H 5 − , Si 11 H 2 − and Si 12 H 2 − , respectively. In general, the lighter Si n H x − ( n = 8–10) clusters were dominated by high relative abundances of the pure silicon cluster parent, Si 8 – 10 − , and the singly hydrogenated cluster, Si 8 – 10 H − . A pronounced decrease in intensity was then noted with one additional H adsorption, forming the di-hydride species, Si 8 – 10 H 2 − . The exact converse was observed in the heavier silicon hydride series, Si n H x − ( n = 11–12), where the pure silicon cluster parent, Si 11 – 12 − , and single hydrogenation species, Si 11–12 H − are suppressed by a substantial production of an especially stable Si 11 – 12 H 2 − di-hydride moiety.
An overview of the 1986–1987 atomic mass predictions

Abstract The need for a comprehensive update of earlier sets of atomic mass predictions is documented. A project that grew from this need and which resulted in the preparation of the 1986–1987 Atomic Mass Predictions is summarized. Ten sets of new mass predictions and expository text from a variety of types of mass models are combined with the latest evaluation of experimentally determined atomic masses. The methodology employed in constructing these mass predictions is outlined. The models are compared with regard to their reproduction of the experimental mass surface and their use of varying numbers of adjustable parameters. Plots are presented, for each set of predictions, of differences between model calculations and the measured masses. These plots may be used to estimate the reliability of the new mass predictions in unmeasured regions that border the experimentally known mass surface.
Computationally efficient piezostructure modeling for system optimization

The optimization of actuator and sensor parameters in smart structures often requires extensive piezostructure modeling calculations. In order to facilitate these optimizations, a versatile and computationally efficient technique for the modeling of piezostructures into analytical systems has been developed. The method uses one apriori calculation of the coupling characteristics of gridded piezoelectric elements, contiguously covering the entire structure. This allows for the rapid calculation of the coupling characteristics of any patch configuration by summing the effects of the elements contained within the patch boundaries. Some of the advantages of this approach are the lack of error checking necessary with respect to trial patches being located within structural boundaries. Additionally, patch shape restrictions are not tied to difficulties associated with complicated integration limits, and reversed phasing of patch segments is a trivial matter. A technique is also developed to estimate the extent that patch mass and stiffness contributions will influence system response. This method is entirely parameter based and does not require explicit system modeling. It is illustrated how these techniques can dramatically expand the range, versatility, and efficiency of transducer optimization routines. Implementation examples are shown, along with comparisons with more conventional modeling approaches.
CAN STRAIN ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY PREDICT REJECTION IN HEART TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS WITH NORMAL EJECTION FRACTION

Rejection is prevalent in heart transplant (HTX) recipients and its diagnosis with noninvasive tools has been difficult. The aim of this study was to determine if 2-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) can be used to predict rejection in HTX recipients with normal left ventricular
The generalized convexity cone of splines with multiple knots

We characterize the elements of the convex cone of functions that are generalized convex with respect to the space of splines with fixed, multiple knots.
ORAL TWO-POINT DISCRIMINATION: CONSISTENCY OF TWO-POINT LIMENS ON SELECTED ORAL SITES

20 Ss participated in 3 experimental sessions; 10 thresholds, 5 ascending and 5 descending, were obtained on each of 2 oral sites (tongue tip and tongue dorsum) in each session. Results indicate th...
Application of the jj-Coupling Model to Moderately Light Nuclei

An investigation based on the strong spin-orbit coupling model is made for nuclei in the $1{d}_{\frac{3}{2}}$ and $1{f}_{\frac{7}{2}}$ shells. Hartree-Fock wave functions and central forces are used in calculating ground state spins and binding energy differences. Coupling rules are found for configurations of identical nucleons and for the simplest odd-odd nuclei. Approximate wave functions are constructed for odd-$A$ and even-even nuclei having both neutrons and protons in the $1{f}_{\frac{7}{2}}$ shell. Binding energy differences, magnetic moments, and beta decay matrix elements are calculated with these functions. The result of comparing binding energy differences with experiment is interpreted as favoring strong spin-orbit coupling over weak spin-orbit coupling.
Force field bias in protein folding simulations

Long timescale (>1 μs) molecular dynamics simulations of protein folding offer a powerful tool for understanding the atomic-scale interactions that determine a protein's folding pathway and stabilize its native state. Unfortunately, when the simulated protein fails to fold, it is often unclear whether the failure is due to a deficiency in the underlying force fields or simply a lack of sufficient simulation time. We examine one such case, the human Pin1 WW domain, using the recently developed deactivated morphing method to calculate free energy differences between misfolded and folded states. We find that the force field we used favors the misfolded states, explaining the failure of the folding simulations. Possible further applications of deactivated morphing and implications for force field development are discussed.
THE INFRARED ARRAY CAMERA DARK FIELD: FAR-INFRARED TO X-RAY DATA

We present 20 band photometry from the far-IR to X-ray in the Spitzer Infrared Array Camera (IRAC) dark field. The bias for the near-IR camera on Spitzer is calibrated by observing a ~20' diameter "dark" field near the north ecliptic pole roughly every two-to-three weeks throughout the mission duration of Spitzer. The field is unique for its extreme depth, low background, high quality imaging, time-series information, and accompanying photometry including data taken with Akari, Palomar, MMT, KPNO, Hubble, and Chandra. This serendipitous survey contains the deepest mid-IR data taken to date. This data set is well suited for studies of intermediate-redshift galaxy clusters, high-redshift galaxies, the first generation of stars, and the lowest mass brown dwarfs, among others. This paper provides a summary of the data characteristics and catalog generation from all bands collected to date as well as a discussion of photometric redshifts and initial and expected science results and goals. To illustrate the scientific potential of this unique data set, we also present here IRAC color-color diagrams.
A Slow Extracted Beam for the Cornell 2 GeV Synchrotron

The electron beam at the Cornell 2 GeV synchrotron has been extracted using independently controlled quadrupole and octupole magnets. The septum used has sufficient bend to avoid the synchrotron fringe field. The extracted beam has a divergence of less than 0.5 mrad., a size of 2 mm x 2 mm, a momentum spread less than 0.25% and an intensity greater than 109 electron/pulse (30 pulses/second. The beam is stable, easy to obtain and parasitic operation is possible.
Single-step treatment of 2,4-dinitrotoluene via zero-valent metal reduction and chemical oxidation

Many nitroaromatic compounds (NACs) are considered toxic and potential carcinogens. The purpose of this study was to develop an integrated reductive/oxidative process for treating NACs contaminated waters. The process consists of the combination of zero-valent iron and an ozonation based treatment technique. Corrosion promoters are added to the contaminated water to minimize passivation of the metallic species. Water contaminated with 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT) was treated with the integrated process using a recirculated batch reactor. It was demonstrated that addition of corrosion promoters to the contaminated water enhances the reduction of 2,4-DNT with zero-valent iron. The addition of corrosion promoters resulted in 62% decrease in 2,4-DNT concentration to 2,4-diaminotoluene. The data shows that iron reduced the 2,4-DNT and ozone oxidized these products resulting in a 73% removal of TOC and a 96% decrease in 2,4-DNT concentration.
The challenges of LC–MS/MS analysis of opiates and opioids in urine

Opioids are some of the most commonly prescribed and abused drugs around the world. Primarily used for a nesthesia or pain management, other opioids can also be used in the treatment of opioid addiction. Given these facts, clinicians often randomly test or monitor their patients to determine compliance or abstinence from these drugs via immunoassay methods. When a positive screen is obtained, a confirmatory assay is carried out and although the gold standard has been GC–MS, LC–MS/MS is fast becoming a valid and popular alternative. This review will discuss opioids, the complex metabolic pathways, the measurement of these drugs, the challenges i nvolved and, finally, will describe some LC–MS/MS methods published from 2003 until 2013.
Integrating high-resolution refraction data into near-surface seismic reflection data processing and interpretation

Shallow seismic reflection surveys commonly suffer from poor data quality in the upper 100 to 150 ms of the stacked seismic record because of shot‐associated noise, surface waves, and direct arrivals that obscure the reflected energy. Nevertheless, insight into lateral changes in shallow structure and stratigraphy can still be obtained from these data by using first‐arrival picks in a refraction analysis to derive a near‐surface velocity model. We have used turning‐ray tomography to model near‐surface velocities from seismic reflection profiles recorded in the Hueco Bolson of West Texas and southern New Mexico. The results of this analysis are interval‐velocity models for the upper 150 to 300 m of the seismic profiles which delineate geologic features that were not interpretable from the stacked records alone. In addition, the interval‐velocity models lead to improved time‐to‐depth conversion; when converted to stacking velocities, they may provide a better estimate of stacking velocities at early travelt...
Poly- β -hydroxyalkanoate in Syntrophomonas wolfei

The production of poly-β-hydroxyalkanoate (PHA) in Syntrophomonas wolfei grown in pure culture or in coculture with Methanospirillum hungatei was studied. PHA was produced by S. wolfei during the exponential phase of growth under both of these cultural conditions. S. wolfei in pure culture also produced PHA in stationary phase when the medium was supplemented with high concentrations of the substrate crotonate. In S. wolfei, PHA levels decreased after growth stopped and most of the substrate was depleted. Altering the C to N ratio of the medium did not affect the amount of PHA made per mg of protein. The incorporation of labeled butyrate but not acetate into PHA during the early stages of growth of S. wolfei and the fact that some of the PHA in a pure culture of S. wolfei grown with trans-2-pentenoate was a polymer of 5-carbon monomer units indicated that a pathway exists for the synthesis of PHA without degradation of the substrate to acetyl-CoA. During the later stages of growth, PHA was made by a pathway which was in equilibrium with the acetate pool. These data indicate that PHA served as a carbon/energy reserve material in S. wolfei, but the synthesis of this polymer was regulated in a manner different from the known pathways.
Novel Eicosapentaenoic Acid-derived F3-isoprostanes as Biomarkers of Lipid Peroxidation

Isoprostanes (iPs) are prostaglandin (PG) isomers generated by free radical-catalyzed peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Urinary F(2)-iPs, PGF(2alpha) isomers derived from arachidonic acid (AA) are used as indices of lipid peroxidation in vivo. We now report the characterization of two major F(3)-iPs, 5-epi-8,12-iso-iPF(3alpha)-VI and 8,12-iso-iPF(3alpha)-VI, derived from the omega-3 fatty acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Although the potential therapeutic benefits of EPA receive much attention, a shift toward a diet rich in omega-3 PUFAs may also predispose to enhanced lipid peroxidation. Urinary 5-epi-8,12-iso-iPF(3alpha)-VI and 8,12-iso-iPF(3alpha)-VI are highly correlated and unaltered by cyclooxygenase inhibition in humans. Fish oil dose-dependently elevates urinary F(3)-iPs in mice and a shift in dietary omega-3/omega-6 PUFAs is reflected by an increasing slope [m] of the line relating urinary 8, 12-iso-iPF(3alpha)-VI and 8,12-iso-iPF(2alpha)-VI. Administration of bacterial lipopolysaccharide evokes a reversible increase in both urinary 8,12-iso-iPF(3alpha)-VI and 8,12-iso-iPF(2alpha)-VI in humans on an ad lib diet. However, while excretion of the iPs is highly correlated (R(2) median = 0.8), [m] varies by an order of magnitude, reflecting marked inter-individual variability in the relative peroxidation of omega-3 versus omega-6 substrates. Clustered analysis of F(2)- and F(3)-iPs refines assessment of the oxidant stress response to an inflammatory stimulus in vivo by integrating variability in dietary intake of omega-3/omega-6 PUFAs.
Dynamical Formation and Stability of Helical Prominence Magnetic Fields

Abstract : We numerically simulated an initially bipolar magnetic field subjected to shear motions concentrated near and parallel to the photospheric polarity inversion line. The simulations yield three principal results: (1) For footprint displacements comparable to the bipole's depth, the sheared core field acquires a dipped geometry that can support cool prominence material against gravity. This confirms previous force-free equilibrium models for forming dipped prominence fields by differential shear, and extends them to much larger applied shears and time-dependent dynamics with dissipation. (2) At larger shears, we discover a new mechanism for forming the helical magnetic fields of prominences. It entails a two-step process of magnetic reconnection in the corona. First, flux in the sheared core reconnects with flux in the unsheared, restraining arcade, producing new pairs of interlinked field lines. Second, as these interlinked fields continue to be sheared, they are brought together and reconnect again, producing helical field threading and enveloping the body of the prominence. This mechanism can account for the twist that is often observed in both quiescent and erupting prominences. (3) Even for very large shears, the dipped, helical structure settles into an apparently stable equilibrium, despite the substantial amount of reconnection and twist in the magnetic field. We conclude that neither a kink instability of the helical core field, nor a tether-cutting instability of the restraining arcade, is operating in our low-lying model prominence. This concurs with both observations and a theoretical model for prominence stability.
RECALL AND PERSUASION: Does Creative Advertising Matter?

Creativity is an important component of advertising. This research examines the potential effectiveness of creative advertising in enhancing recall, brand attitude, and purchase intent. Our basic methodology compares a set of randomly selected award-winning commercials (Communication Arts) with a random sample of control commercials. The commercials were embedded in television programs and subjects for a naturalistic viewing experience. Studies 1 and 2 had aided and unaided brand and execution recall as dependent variables. For Study 3, brand attitude and purchase intent were the dependent variables of interest. Results indicated that creative commercials facilitate unaided recall, but that creativity did not enhance aided recall, purchase intent, or brand and advertisement attitude. The basic advantage of creative advertising in enhancing unaided recall was found to persist over a one-week delay.
Thermal properties of big bluestem as affected by ecotype and planting location along the precipitation gradient of the Great Plains

Abstract The objective of this research was to study the effect of ecotype and planting location on thermal properties of big bluestem. Three big bluestem ecotypes (CKS, EKS, ILL) and a cultivar (KAW) were harvested in 2010 from four locations (Colby, Hays, and Manhattan, KS; and Carbondale, IL) and were evaluated for their specific heat, thermal conductivity, thermal stability, HHV (high heating value), and proximate contents. All populations revealed a large variation in specific heat (2.35–2.62 kJ/kg/K), thermal conductivity (77.85–99.06 × 10−3 W/m/K), thermogravimetric analysis as weight loss during the heating process (71–73%), and HHV (17.64–18.67 MJ/kg). Specific heat of the big bluestem was significantly affected by planting location, ecotype, and interaction between location and ecotype. Planting location had stronger influence on specific heat than ecotype. Specific heat increased as temperature increased, and a linear correlation model for specific heat prediction was developed as a function of temperature. Ecotype, planting location, and the interaction of ecotype and planting location did not have a significant effect on thermal conductivity; however, density and particle size showed a completely opposite relationship on thermal conductivity. Both planting location and ecotype significantly affected HHV. Among all environmental factors, potential evapotranspiration had the most significant effect on thermal properties.
Trans-meningeal drug delivery to optic nerve ganglion cell axons using a nanoparticle drug delivery system

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate if neuroprotective drugs can cross the optic nerve sheath in vitro. Four optic nerves were used for this study. Two porcine nerves were harvested at the time of euthanasia and two human nerves were obtained at the time of therapeutic globe enucleation. The optic nerve sheaths were dissected and placed as a membrane in a two chamber diffusion cell to test meningeal penetration by both brimonidine alone and brimonidine encapsulated in nanoparticle (NP-brimonidine). Brimonidine concentration was assayed by UV–vis spectrometer measurement of absorbance at 389 nm. Increasing concentration of brimonidine on the receiver side of the chamber was measured in both the brimonidine alone and the brimonidine encapsulated experiments. The human data were fitted with a two parameter exponential regression analysis (brimonidine alone donor r 2 = 0.87 and receiver r 2 = 0.80, NP-brimonidine donor r 2 = 0.79 and receiver r 2 = 0.84). Time constant (τ) was 10.2 h (donor) and 13.1 h (receiver) in the brimonidine study, and 24.0 h (donor) and 15.9 h (receiver) in the NP-brimonidine study. Encapsulated brimonidine had a longer time to reach equilibrium. Passage of brimonidine through the optic nerve sheath was demonstrated in the experiments. Increase in time constants when comparing the NP-brimonidine with the brimonidine curves in the human studiesindicates that diffusion is delayed by the initial parameter of drug being loaded in NP. Direct treatment of injured optic nerve axons may be possible by trans-meningeal drug diffusion.
Test Retest Reliability and Cost Analyses of Automated and Face to Face Intelligence Testing

Two replication studies were reported and costs were compared for automated WAIS testing versus face to face WAIS testing. Experiment I replicated the Elwood & Griffin (in press) study. Two sessions of automated WAIS testing indicated high test retest reliabilities for intelligence measures (VIQ 0.94, PIQ 0.95 and FSIQ 0.97), and moderately high rs for some non-IQ measures of WAIS responses. The study was interpreted as a successful replication of the Elwood & Griffin (in press) experiment. Experiment II was interpreted as a successful replication of the Coons & Peacock (1959) study. Two sessions of face to face WAIS testing resulted in these test retest rs: VIQ 0·98, PIQ 0·94 and FSIQ 0·97. An analysis of the salary levels and manhours required for testing indicated that for each dollar spent for face to face WAIS testing by a Phi) psychologist, the same testing could be performed by a BA level technician for $0·51 and that a technician and clerk typist working together could administer and score the automated WAIS for $0·42.
Propagation Of Picosecond Pulses In Coplanar Transmission Lines

Coplanar transmission lines are of interest for a variety of applications, including signal paths in microwave circuits and in picosecond opto-electronic research. Impedance, loss, and dispersion in these lines have been the subject of a number of theoretical and experimental studies. Previous experimental studies of dispersion in coplanar lines have presented their results in the time domain, and compared these results with various dispersion models. In this report, experimental data on dispersion in coplanar lines are presented in the frequency domain, from 10 to over 200 GHz. This form of presentation provides a somewhat different perspective on the validity of various dispersion models.
Factor structure of quality of life: The Lehman interview

Abstract This study of 67 chronically mentally ill outpatients with psychotic disorders examined subjective quality of life scores from Lehman's Quality of Life (QOL) interview. Factor analyses identified ‘Affiliative’ and ‘Instrumental’ dimensions which accounted for 67% of the variance in subjective satisfaction ratings. The results suggest a model in which instrumental and affiliative needs comprise significant portions of subjective life satisfaction and that global QOL satisfaction is related more to instrumental than affiliative needs. These findings further clarify the concept of life satisfaction in this population of severely mentally ill individuals and suggest modifications in how quality of life information is evaluated.
Sex-role concepts and flexibility on measures of thinking, feeling, and behaving.

Tests selected to measure orientation toward others, interpersonal relations on behavioral and feeling levels, and creative thinking were administered to 163 persons. Scores were examined for differences between males and females (on the basis of gender alone) and among sex-role concept groups (on the basis of scores on Bem's test) to test the proposition that androgynous persons are more flexible in interpersonal relations than are either masculine or feminine persons. Androgynous persons are more flexible in a range of interpersonal situations but not in creative thinking tasks. Both the extensions and limitations of the androgyny construct are discussed in view of that finding. The usefulness of Bem's test of sex-role inventory for clinical and research purposes was noted.
The role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the generation and maintenance of mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia in rats after intradermal injection of capsaicin.

Abstract This study was designed to assess the role of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and its receptor in the generation and maintenance of secondary mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia induced by intradermal injection of capsaicin in rats. Paw withdrawal responses (PWRs) to von Frey hairs with different bending forces applied on the rat paw were tested in this study. CGRP8–37, a specific antagonist of CGRP 1 receptors, was delivered through a microdialysis fiber inserted across the dorsal horn. Post- and pretreatment paradigms were followed. When CGRP8–37 was administered 1 h after capsaicin injection, the mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia were partially reversed in a dose-dependent manner. On the other hand, when rats were treated with CGRP8–37 prior to capsaicin injection, the PWRs to von Frey applications were significantly reduced as compared to control animals. Collectively, these results suggest that CGRP receptors present in the dorsal horn are involved in the generation and maintenance of nociceptive behaviors associated with cutaneous inflammation.
An assessment of futures studies worldwide

Abstract This article is based on a recent survey of the futures field. For a report of the survey, see Futures Studies : An International Survey by John McHale and Magda Cordell McHale. The full report on the survey was published by UNITAR, December 1975 and may be purchased from UN Sales Section, Room LX 2300, New York, NY 10017, USA or from Palais de Nations, 1211 Geneva 10, Switzerland. The expansion of the subject is shown by the growing number of conferences, publications, secretariats and commissions, and the subject is characterised by a drive for professional recognition and higher standards of methodological rigour. Changes in futures studies include: the shift from linear forecasting towards more normative modes that consider a range of alternative futures; and a new predominance of social science over physical science among practitioners. Whereas futures studies used to have the appearance of a disciplinary enclave it now appears increasingly like a social movement, attracting a degree of involvement similar to that of the civil rights movement, ecology, or consumerism.
Localizing the Private Sector Workforce in the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries: A Study of Kuwait

The Gulf States have the highest numbers of migrant workers in the world (Shah, 2006). The rapid economic growth these states have witnessed over the last five decades has made them an attraction to foreign labor from around the world. This study explores the problem of the low rate of citizens working in the private sector in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, with a focus on the State of Kuwait. In order to gain a better understanding of the phenomenon under study, the problem is contextualized in the wider region by examining localization efforts in two other GCC countries: the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia. Considering the similar demographical, economic, and social conditions among GCC countries, the study was conducted in the State of Kuwait.
Exact calculation of multifractal exponents of the critical wave function of Dirac fermions in a random magnetic field

The multifractal scaling exponents are calculated for the critical wave function of a two-dimensional Dirac fermion in the presence of a random magnetic field. It is shown that the problem of calculating the multifractal spectrum maps into the thermodynamics of a static particle in a random potential. The multifractal exponents are simply given in terms of thermodynamic functions, such as free energy and entropy, which are argued to be self-averaging in the thermodynamic limit. These thermodynamic functions are shown to coincide exactly with those of a generalized random energy model, in agreement with previous results obtained using Gaussian field theories in an ultrametric space.