cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Atomic spectroscopy at NIST: 2001

The program in atomic spectroscopy at NISt continues to provide accurate reference data on spectral lines and energy levels for a wide variety of important applications. With spectrometers that can record spectra from the extreme ultraviolet (1 nm) to the infrared (18 000 nm), we can measure spectra over a large spectral range. Most of these spectrometers are the most powerful of their type in the world. We recently used out 10.7-m normal-incidence vacuum spectrography to make precision measurements of the wavelengths of lasing lines in a commercial molecular fluorine laser at 157 nm. These results establish standard values to be applied in the design of optics for microlithography at this wavelength. Our high resolution Fourier transform spectrometer is being used to measure wavelengths and transition probabilities for rare-earth atoms and ions th at are used as additives in the production of high intensity discharge lamps. The data allow lamp designers to model the processes occurring in the discharge. Our 10.7-m grazing incidence spectrograph is being used to obtain data for diagnostics of magnetic fusion research plasmas as well as for astronomical applications such as the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Precision laser spectroscopy on neutral Li is being carried out to test the validity of quantum electrodymanics (QED) calculations. Finally, we are continuing to carry out critical complications of wavelengths, energy levels, and transition probabilities and to improve our Atomic Spectra Database on the World Wide Web. These data activities support many applications throughout industry and the scientific community.
The asymptotic distributions of the largest entries of sample correlation matrices

Let Xn=(xij) be an n by p data matrix, where the n rows form a random sample of size n from a certain p-dimensional population distribution. Let Rn=(ρij) be the p×p sample correlation matrix of Xn; that is, the entry ρij is the usual Pearson”s correlation coefficient between the ith column of Xn and jth column of Xn. For contemporary data both n and p are large. When the population is a multivariate normal we study the test that H0: the p variates of the population are uncorrelated. A test statistic is chosen as Ln=max i≠j|ρij|. The asymptotic distribution of Ln is derived by using the Chen–Stein Poisson approximation method. Similar results for the non-Gaussian case are also derived.
Enhancing curiosity using interactive simulations combined with real-time formative assessment facilitated by open-format questions on Tablet computers

Students' curiosity often seems nearly nonexistent in a lecture setting; we discuss a variety of possible reasons for this, but it is the instructor who typically poses questions while only a few students, usually the better ones, respond. As we have developed and implemented the use of InkSurvey to collect real-time formative assessment, we have discovered that it can serve in an unanticipated role: to promote curiosity in engineering physics undergraduates. Curiosity often motivates creative, innovative people. To encourage such curiosity, we solicit questions submitted real-time via InkSurvey and pen-enabled mobile devices (Tablet PCs) in response to interactive simulations (applets) run either before or in class. This provides students with practice in asking questions, increases metacognition, and serves as a rich springboard from which to introduce content and/or address misconceptions. We describe the procedure for measuring curiosity and results from applying this method in a junior level electromagnetics engineering physics course. We conclude that students are indeed more curious than they appear in class, and students participate even without extrinsic motivation. This method of enhancing curiosity using interactive simulations coupled with real-time formative assessment in response to open-format questions could be implemented in a wide variety of engineering courses as well as elsewhere.
Suppression of luteal phase, but not midcycle, prolactin levels by chronic follicular phase opiate antagonism☆

Objective: To investigate whether establishment and maintenance of chronic opioid blockade throughout the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle influences midcycle and luteal phase prolactin levels. Design: Randomized, double-blind, crossover study. Setting: Academic research environment. Patient(s): Volunteers, aged 21–35 years, with regular menstrual cycles. Intervention(s): Naltrexone (50 mg) or placebo were administered on cycle days 2–14. Blood samples were obtained in the early follicular phase and in the periovulatory and midluteal phases of the menstrual cycle. Main Outcome Measure(s): Serum prolactin levels. Result(s): In the early follicular phase, serum prolactin levels were equivalent in naltrexone (12.0 ± 2.7 μg/L; mean ± SE) and placebo (12.1 ± 2.9 ug/L) cycles. A statistically significant increase in serum prolactin was observed on the day of the LH surge (naltrexone: 22.6 ± 3.7 μg/L; placebo: 21.7 ± 2.7 μg/L; P < 0.05 versus early follicular phase), but no difference between treatments was observed. However, midluteal prolactin levels were statistically significantly lower in naltrexone cycles compared with placebo cycles (12.6 ± 3.3 versus 15.4 ± 3.0 )ug/L; P < 0.05). Conclusion(s): Chronic blockade of opioid activities during the follicular phase does not affect midcycle prolactin increments, but withdrawal of opioid blockade may enhance opioid effects on prolactin levels in the luteal phase.
Sustained benefits of hearing aids.

This study was designed to evaluate long-term benefits of hearing aids in elderly individuals with hearing loss. A primary care cohort of 192 elderly, hearing-impaired veterans (mean age 72 ± 6, 97...
On Gradient Ricci Solitons with Symmetry

We study gradient Ricci solitons with maximal symmetry. First we show that there are no nontrivial homogeneous gradient Ricci solitons. Thus, the most symmetry one can expect is an isometric cohomogeneity one group action. Many examples of cohomogeneity one gradient solitons have been constructed. However, we apply the main result in our paper "Rigidity of gradient Ricci solitons" to show that there are no noncompact cohomogeneity one shrinking gradient solitons with nonnegative curvature.
The Dynamic Effects of Open-Space Conservation Policies on Residential Development Density

Abstract Recent economic analyses emphasize that designated open space increases the rents on neighboring residential land, and likewise, the probability of undeveloped land converting to residential uses. This paper addresses a different question: What is the effect of local open-space conservation on the rate of growth in the density of residential land? A discrete-choice econometric model of lakeshore development is estimated with a unique parcel-level spatial–temporal dataset, using maximum simulated likelihood to account for (i) the panel structure of the data, (ii) unobserved spatial heterogeneity, and (iii) sample selection resulting from correlated unobservables. Results indicate that, contrary to the intuition derived from the current literature, local open-space conservation policies do not increase the rate of growth in residential density, and some open-space conservation policies may reduce the rate of growth in residential development density. This is consistent with land-value complementarity between local open space and parcel size.
Subquantum information and computation

It is argued that immense physical resources — for nonlocal communication, espionage, and exponentially-fast computation — are hidden from us by quantum noise, and that this noise is not fundamental but merely a property of an equilibrium state in which the universe happens to be at the present time. It is suggested that ‘non-quantum’ or nonequilibrium matter might exist today in the form of relic particles from the early universe. We describe how such matter could be detected and put to practical use. Nonequilibrium matter could be used to send instantaneous signals, to violate the uncertainty principle, to distinguish non-orthogonal quantum states without disturbing them, to eavesdrop on quantum key distribution, and to outpace quantum computation (solving NP-complete problems in polynomial time).
Targeted Transfers and the Fiscal Response to the Great Recession

Abstract Between 2007 and 2009, government expenditures increased rapidly across the OECD countries. While economic research on the impact of government purchases has flourished, in the data, most of the increase in expenditures was in government transfers. After documenting this fact, we argue that future research should focus on the positive impact of transfers. Towards this, we present a model in which there is no representative agent and Ricardian equivalence does not hold because of uncertainty, imperfect credit markets, and nominal rigidities. Targeted lump-sum transfers are expansionary both because of a neoclassical wealth effect and because of a Keynesian aggregate demand effect.
Contourlets and sparse image expansions

Recently, the contourlet transform has been developed as a true two-dimensional representation that can capture the geometrical structure in pictorial information. Unlike other transforms that were initially constructed in the continuous-domain and then discretized for sampled data, the contourlet construction starts from the discrete-domain using filter banks, and then convergences to a continuous-domain expansion via a multiresolution analysis framework. In this paper we study the approximation behavior of the contourlet expansion for two-dimensional piecewise smooth functions resembling natural images. Inspired by the vanishing moment property which is the key for the good approximation behavior of wavelets, we introduce the directional vanishing moment condition for contourlets. We show that with anisotropic scaling and sufficient directional vanishing moments, contourlets essentially achieve the optimal approximation rate, O ((log M ) 3 M -2 ) square error with a best M -term approximation, for 2-D piecewise smooth functions with C 2 contours. Finally, we show some numerical experiments demonstrating the potential of contourlets in several image processing applications.
IgG4-related kidney disease

Abstract IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a recently recognized systemic immune-mediated disease that can affect nearly any organ or tissue. The most common manifestation in the kidney is IgG4-related tubulointerstitial nephritis (IgG4-TIN), which can present as renal insufficiency, renal mass lesions, or both. Histologically, IgG4-TIN is a plasma cell-rich interstitial inflammatory infiltrate with mononuclear cells, eosinophils, and increased IgG4+ plasma cells, along with expansile interstitial fibrosis that often has a "storiform" appearance. Tubular basement membrane immune complex deposits, best visualized on immunofluorescence staining, are present in most cases. IgG4-TIN usually shows a rapid response to steroid therapy. Glomeruli may be affected by IgG4-RD, usually in the form of membranous glomerulonephritis; other glomerular lesions have also been described. This review describes the different histopathologic patterns of renal involvement by IgG4-RD, with associated clinical, radiographic, and serologic features.
A low-power optical electron switch

An electron beam is deflected when it passes over a silicon-nitride surface, if the surface is illuminated by a low-power continuous-wave diode laser. A deflection angle of up to 1.2 mrad is achieved for an electron beam of 29 µrad divergence. A mechanical beam-stop is used to demonstrate that the effect can act as an optical electron switch with a rise and fall time of 6 µs. Such a switch provides an alternative means to control electron beams, which may be useful in electron lithography and microscopy.
The Stellar Population of Lyα-emitting Galaxies at z ~ 5.7

We present a study of three Lyα-emitting galaxies (LAEs), selected via a narrowband survey in the GOODS northern field and spectroscopically confirmed to have redshifts of z ~ 5.65. Using HST ACS and Spitzer IRAC data, we constrain the rest-frame UV-to-optical spectral energy distributions (SEDs) of the galaxies. Fitting stellar population synthesis models to the observed SEDs, we find best-fit stellar populations with masses between ~109 and 1010 M☉, and ages between ~5 and 100 Myr, assuming a simple starburst star formation history. However, stellar populations as old as 700 Myr are admissible if a constant star formation rate model is considered. Very deep near-IR observations may help to narrow the range of allowed models by providing extra constraints on the rest-frame UV spectral slope. Our narrowband-selected objects and other IRAC-detected z ~ 6 i'-dropout galaxies have similar 3.6 μm magnitudes and z'-[3.6] colors, suggesting that they possess stellar populations of similar masses and ages. This similarity may be the result of a selection bias, since the IRAC-detected LAEs and i'-dropouts probably only sample the bright end of the luminosity function. On the other hand, our LAEs have blue i'-z' colors compared to the i'-dropouts and would have been missed by the i'-dropout selection criterion. A better understanding of the overlap between the LAE and the i'-dropout populations is necessary in order to constrain the properties of the overall high-redshift galaxy population, such as the total stellar mass density at z ~ 6.
An explicit construction of type A Demazure atoms

Demazure characters of type A, which are equivalent to key polynomials, have been decomposed by Lascoux and Schutzenberger into standard bases. We prove that the resulting polynomials, which we call Demazure atoms, can be obtained from a certain specialization of nonsymmetric Macdonald polynomials. This combinatorial interpretation for Demazure atoms accelerates the computation of the right key associated to a semi-standard Young tableau. Utilizing a related construction, we provide a new combinatorial description of the key polynomials.
Do National Borders Really Matter? Canada–US Regional Trade Reconsidered

This paper reconsiders the Canada–US border’s effect on trade. The authors first test whether the findings of McCallum (1995) and Helliwell (1996)—that the border substantially decreases trade—change when better data are used. It is found that the “border effect” may be substantially less than previously measured—up to 50% smaller—but remains surprisingly large. An explanation of the border’s effect is sought. Transportation equipment offers a natural experiment, as North American trade has been completely liberalized for several decades. A higher border effect is found for these freely traded goods, which rules out standard protection as the border effect’s cause.
Many-body density matrices for free fermions

Building upon an analytical technique introduced by Chung and Peschel [Phys. Rev. B 64, 064412 (2001)], we calculated the many-body density matrix ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{B}$ of a finite block of B sites within an infinite system of free spinless fermions in arbitrary dimensions. In terms of the block Green function matrix G (whose elements are ${G}_{\ifmmode \bar{\imath}\else \={\i}\fi{}j}=〈{c}_{i}^{\ifmmode\dagger\else\textdagger\fi{}}{c}_{j}〉,$ where ${c}_{i}^{\ifmmode\dagger\else\textdagger\fi{}}$ and ${c}_{j}$ are fermion creation and annihilation operators acting on sites i and j within the block, respectively), the density matrix can be written as ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{B}=\mathrm{det}(1\ensuremath{-}G)\mathrm{exp}({\ensuremath{\sum}}_{\mathrm{ij}}[\mathrm{ln}G(1\ensuremath{-}{G)}^{\ensuremath{-}1}{]}_{\mathrm{ij}}{c}_{i}^{\ifmmode\dagger\else\textdagger\fi{}}{c}_{j}).$ Our results suggest that Hilbert space truncation schemes should retain the states created by a subset of the ${c}_{i}^{\ifmmode\dagger\else\textdagger\fi{}}$'s (in any combination), rather than selecting eigenvectors of ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{B}$ independently based on the eigenvalue.
'Propylene spaced' allyl tin reagents: A new class of fluorous tin reagents for allylations under radical and metal-catalyzed conditions

Abstract A new generation of propylene-spaced fluorous allyltin reagents [(Rf(CH 2 ) 3 ) 3 SnCH 2 CHCH 2 ] is described. These succeed in radical allylations where their lower homologs (ethylene-spaced) fail, and they provide improved performance in transition metal catalyzed allylations. The reagents and byproducts are readily separated by simple fluorous-organic liquid-liquid or solid-liquid extractions.
Palladium catalyzed carboxylation of allylstannanes and boranes using CO2

A family of well-defined (η3-allyl)Pd(L)(carboxylate) (L = PR3 or NHC) complexes are by far the most efficient catalysts reported to date for the catalytic carboxylation of allylstannanes into allylcarboxylates using CO2. The substrate scope of this reaction is extended to both substituted allylstannanes and allylboranes.
Navier-Stokes Computations of Cavity Aeroacoustics with Suppression Devices

Effectiveness of two devices to suppress the cavity acoustics was computationally investigated. Two dimensional, computational simulations were performed for the transonic, turbulent flows past a cavity, which was first equipped with a rear face ramp and then with a spoiler. The Reynolds-averaged, unsteady, compressible, full Navier-Stokes equations were solved time accurately by a second-order accurate, implicit, upwind, finite-volume method. The effect of turbulence was included through the Baldwin-Lomax model with modifications for the multiple-wall effects and for the highly vortical flow with a shear layer. The results included instantaneous and time-averaged flow properties, and time-series analyses of the pressure inside the cavity, which compared favorably with the available experimental data. These results were also contrasted with the computed aeroacoustics of the same cavity (length-to-depth ratio of 4.5), but without a device, to demonstrate the suppression effectiveness.
Calculation of plasma properties in ion sources

Simple algebraic equations are developed that can be used to calculate the average primary electron density, the average primary to Maxwellian density ratio, and the average Maxwellian electron temperature in the discharge chamber of a cusped magnetic field ion source. These properties may be calculated as functions of the propellant gas flow rate and the propellant utilization efficiency. Each of the plasma properties calculated using the model agrees well with the corresponding experimental data for both argon and xenon gases over a wide range of propellant flow rates and utilization efficiencies.
Sampling Circuits That Break the kT/C Thermal Noise Limit

Several circuit-level techniques are described which are used to reduce or cancel thermal noise and break the so-called kT/C limit. kT/C noise describes the total thermal noise power added to a signal when a sample is taken on a capacitor. In the first proposed technique, the sampled thermal noise is reduced by altering the relationship between the sampling bandwidth and the dominant noise source, providing a powerful, new degree of freedom in circuit design. In the second proposed technique, thermal noise sampled on an input capacitor is actively canceled using an amplifier, so that the noise at the amplifier output can be controlled independently of input capacitor size. Measurements from two test chips are presented which demonstrate sampled thermal noise power reduction of 48% and 67%, respectively, when compared with conventional kT/C-limited sampling.
An experimental determination of differential equations to describe simple nonlinear systems.

Ordinary differential equations experimentally determined for describing performance of existing lumped-parameter time-invariant nonlinear physical systems
On A Nascent Mathematical-Physical Latency-Information Theory, Part I: The Revelation Of Powerful And Fast Knowledge-Unaided Power-Centroid Radar

In this first part of the latest latency-information theory (LIT) and applications paper series powerful and fast 'knowledge-unaided' power-centroid (F-KUPC) radar is revealed. More specifically, it is found that for real-world airborne moving target indicator radar subjected to severely taxing environmental conditions F-KUPC radar approximates the signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) radar performance derived with more complex knowledge-aided power-centroid (KAPC) radar. KAPC radar was discovered earlier as part of DARPA's 2001-2005 knowledge-aided sensor signal processing expert reasoning (KASSPER) Program and outperforms standard priorknowledge radar schemes by several orders of magnitude in both the compression of sourced intelligence-space of priorknowledge, in the form of SAR imagery, and the compression of processing intelligence-time of the associated clutter covariance processor, while also yielding an average SINR radar performance that is approximately 1dB away from the optimum. In this paper, it is shown that the average SINR performance of significantly simpler F-KUPC radar emulates that of KAPC radar and, like KAPC radar, outperforms a conventional knowledge-unaided sample covariance matrix inverse radar algorithm by several dBs. The matlab simulation programs that were used to derive these results will become available in the author's Web site.
BCS BEC crossover: From high temperature superconductors to ultracold superfluids

Abstract We review the BCS to Bose–Einstein condensation (BEC) crossover scenario which is based on the well known crossover generalization of the BCS ground state wavefunction Ψ 0 . While this ground state has been summarized extensively in the literature, this Review is devoted to less widely discussed issues: understanding the effects of finite temperature, primarily below T c , in a manner consistent with Ψ 0 . Our emphasis is on the intersection of two important problems: high T c superconductivity and superfluidity in ultracold fermionic atomic gases. We address the “pseudogap state” in the copper oxide superconductors from the vantage point of a BCS–BEC crossover scenario, although there is no consensus on the applicability of this scheme to high T c . We argue that it also provides a useful basis for studying atomic gases near the unitary scattering regime; they are most likely in the counterpart pseudogap phase. That is, superconductivity takes place out of a non-Fermi liquid state where preformed, metastable fermion pairs are present at the onset of their Bose condensation. As a microscopic basis for this work, we summarize a variety of T-matrix approaches, and assess their theoretical consistency. A close connection with conventional superconducting fluctuation theories is emphasized and exploited.
Atmospheric Tides in the Latest Generation of Climate Models

AbstractFor atmospheric tides driven by solar heating, the database of climate model output used in the most recent assessment report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) confirms and extends the authors’ earlier results based on the previous generation of models. Both the present study and the earlier one examine the surface pressure signature of the tides, but the new database removes a shortcoming of the earlier study in which model simulations were not strictly comparable to observations. The present study confirms an approximate consistency among observations and all model simulations, despite variation of model tops from 31 to 144 km. On its face, this result is surprising because the dominant (semidiurnal) component of the tides is forced mostly by ozone heating around 30–70-km altitude. Classical linear tide calculations and occasional numerical experimentation have long suggested that models with low tops achieve some consistency with observations by means of compensating error...
Optimal unemployment insurance

Abstract We investigate the design of an optimal unemployment insurance program using an equilibrium search model calibrated using data from the reemployment bonus experiments. There are three main conclusions. First, insurance considerations suggest that the potential duration of Ul benefits would be unlimited under an optimal program. Second, if the potential duration to benefits were unlimited, current replacement rates in the U.S. (about 0.5) would probably be about right. Third, the optimal replacement rate rises as the potential duration of benefits is increasingly limited, reaching 1 when the potential duration of benefits is limited to 32 weeks.
Formal substitution of bromocyclopropanes with nitrogen nucleophiles.

A highly chemo- and diastereoselective protocol toward amino-substituted donor−acceptor cyclopropanes via the formal nucleophilic displacement in bromocyclopropanes is described. A wide range of N-nucleophiles, including carboxamides, sulfonamides, azoles, and anilines, can be efficiently employed in this transformation, providing expeditious access to stereochemically defined and densely functionalized cyclopropylamine derivatives.
Hormonal Therapy or External-Beam Radiation With Brachytherapy and the Risk of Death From Prostate Cancer in Men With Intermediate Risk Prostate Cancer

Abstract Purpose To determine whether external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) improves disease control compared with supplemental androgen suppression therapy (AST) in men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer who are being treated with brachytherapy. Patients and Methods A total of 807 men with intermediate-risk prostate cancer (T2bNXM0, Gleason ≤7, prostate-specific antigen [PSA] Results Treatment with brachytherapy and with EBRT was associated with a significant increase in the risk of PCSM compared with brachytherapy and AST (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 4.027 [95% CI, 1.168-13.89]; P = .027) after adjusting for age and prostate cancer prognostic factors. A Gleason score of 4+3 and increasing PSA were associated with worse PCSM (adjusted HR 8.882 [95% CI, 1.095-72.04]; P = .041; and adjusted HR 8.029 [95% CI, 2.38-28.8]; P = .0014, respectively). Conclusion Supplemental AST use compared with EBRT is associated with a lower risk of PCSM in men with intermediate-risk PC undergoing brachytherapy. Prospective validation in a randomized controlled trial is needed.
A New Approach in Cascade Flow Analysis Using the Finite Element Method

A new approach in analyzing the potential flow past cascades and single airfoils using the finite-element method is developed. In this analysis, the circulation around the airfoil is not externally imposed but is directly computed in the numerical solution. Different finite-element discretization patterns, orders of piecewise approximation, and grid sizes are used in the solution. The results obtained are compared with existing experimental measurements and exact solutions in cascades and single airfoils. Nomenclature A = area of a finite element ( = contour length of a finite element n = normal unit vector N = shape functions defined over a finite element p = number of nodes associated with a finite element 5 = total number of finite elements having one or more nodes on one branch of the splitting boundary V = velocity vector Vn = velocity component normal to the exit station x,y = spatial coordinates T = circulation around a lifting body p = flow density = velocity potential
Determination of the topology of a directed network

We consider strongly-connected, directed networks of identical synchronous, finite-state processors with in- and outdegree uniformly bounded by a network constant. Via a straightforward extension of Ostrovsky and Wilkerson's Backwards Communication Algorithm [Proc. 14th Annual Symp. on Principles of Distributed Computing, 1995], we exhibit a protocol which solves the Global Topology Determination Problem, the problem of having a root processor map the global topology of a network of unknown size and topology, with running time O(ND) where N represents the number of processors and D represents the diameter of the network. A simple counting argument suffices to show that the Global Topology Determination Problem has time-complexity Ω(N log N) which makes the protocol presented asymptotically time-optimal for many large networks.
The Heat and Mass Flow Analyzer: A Simulator for the Study of Heat Conduction

After having introduced in a simplified way the RC circuit-heat conduction analogy in one- and two- dimensional problems, the influence of variable properties is added to the electrical setup.The processes involving freezing and melting of pure metals and alloys are studied as an important application of these simulators.Problems with repetitive processes are particularly suited to be solved by computers. Networks can be built for simulating heat exchange.These simulators can be made more flexible by introducing active elements like voltage-dependent voltage- and current-sources. One application of these devices is the simulation of a thermal regen erator.A DC-electrolytic tank has been developed for the study of three-dimensional problems.
A comparison of Merton's option pricing model of corporate debt valuation to the use of book values

Abstract Many studies use the book value of debt as a proxy for its market value because most corporate debt does not trade. I call this practice the book value of debt (BVD) approximation, and it appears to be justified by the observation that the average market value of debt is close to its book value. Many corporate bonds, however, trade at values significantly different from their book values, and consequently the BVD approximation can create important biases. I compare the accuracy of the BVD approximation to Merton's option pricing (OPT) model of corporate debt valuation, and find consistent evidence that the Merton model provides more accurate estimates. I also show that this model is an easily estimated alternative to the BVD approximation. In short, the BVD approximation not only creates significant biases, but it is also an unnecessary simplification.
Bargaining through an Expert Attorney

The following is a three-player litigation model. Previous litigation models analyze the litigation process as a two-player strategic game of incomplete information, where equilibrium usually involves a positive probability of trial. These litigation models assume the attorney and her client have the same objectives. However, an attorney paid by contingency fee may want to settle a case, even when it is not advantageous to her client, in order to avoid the cost of preparing for trial. In this paper, the plaintiff and attorney, paid by contingency fee, act as a principal and agent who are bargaining with another principal, the defendant. The attorney is able to learn part of the defendant's private information, at a lower cost than the plaintiff could. Supported by previous empirical studies, I find that as the stakes of the case rise, the range of contingency fees mutually advantageous for plaintiff and attorney falls. Copyright 1994 by Oxford University Press.
C−H Bond Functionalization via Hydride Transfer: Lewis Acid Catalyzed Alkylation Reactions by Direct Intramolecular Coupling of sp3 C−H Bonds and Reactive Alkenyl Oxocarbenium Intermediates

C−H bond functionalization enables strategically new approaches to the synthesis of complex organic molecules including biologically active compounds, research probes and functional organic materials. To address the shortcomings of transition metal catalyzed processes, we have developed a new approach to direct coupling of sp3 C−H bonds and alkenes based on Lewis acid-promoted hydride transfer. Activation of α,β-unsaturated aldehydes and ketones with Lewis acid triggers intramolecular hydride transfer, leading to a zwitterionic intermediate, which in turn undergoes ionic cyclization to afford the cyclic alkylation product. The scope of this method is expanded by the generation of alkenyl-oxocarbenium species as highly activated alkene intermediates capable of abstracting a hydride from unreactive carbon centers, including benzyl-, allyl-, and crotyl-ethers, as well as primary alkyl ethers, at room temperature. The alkenyl acetal and ketal substrates show dramatically faster rates of cyclization, as well a...
Structure-and-mechanism-based design and discovery of therapeutics for cocaine overdose and addiction

(−)-Cocaine is a widely abused drug and there is currently no available anti-cocaine therapeutic. Promising agents, such as anti-cocaine catalytic antibodies and high-activity mutants of human butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), for therapeutic treatment of cocaine overdose have been developed through structure-and-mechanism-based design and discovery. In particular, a unique computational design strategy based on the modeling and simulation of the rate-determining transition state has been developed and used to design and discover desirable high-activity mutants of BChE. One of the discovered high-activity mutants of BChE has a ∼456-fold improved catalytic efficiency against (−)-cocaine. The encouraging outcome of the structure-and-mechanism-based design and discovery effort demonstrates that the unique computational design approach based on transition state modeling and simulation is promising for rational enzyme redesign and drug discovery. The general approach of the structure-and-mechanism-based design and discovery may be used to design high-activity mutants of any enzyme or catalytic antibody.
Nearly antiferromagnetic Fermi liquids: a progress report

I describe recent theoretical and experimental progress in understanding the physical properties of the two dimensional nearly antiferromagnetic Fermi liquids (NAFL's) found in the normal state of the cuprate superconductors. In such NAFL's, the magnetic interaction between planar quasiparticles is strong and peaked at or near the commensurate wave vector, Q ≡ (fy fy). For the optimally doped and underdoped systems, the resulting strong antiferromagnetic correlations produce three distinct magnetic phases in the normal state: mean field above Tcr, pseudoscaling between Tcr and T*, and pseudogap below T*. I present arguments which suggest that the physical origin of the pseudogap found in the quasiparticle spectrum below Tcr is the formation of a precursor to a spin-densitywave- state, describe the calculations based on this scenario of the dynamical spin susceptibility, Fermi surface evolution, transport, and Hall effect, and summarize the experimental evidence in its support.
Softly broken SQCD: in the continuum, on the lattice, on the brane

Abstract We review progress in studying the solutions of SQCD in the presence of explicit, soft SUSY breaking terms. Massive N = 1 SQCD in the presece of a small gaugino mass leads to a controlled solution which has interesting phase structure with changing θ angle reminiscent of the QCD chiral Lagrangian. Current attempts to test the solutions of pure glue SQCD on the lattice require a theoretical understandinf of the theory with small gaugino mass in order to understand the approach to the SUSY point. We provide such a description making predictions for the gaugino condensate and lightest bound state masses. Finally we briefly review recent D-brane constructions of 4D gauge theories in string theory including a non-supersymmetric configuration. We identify this configuration with softly broken N = 2 SQCD.
Do I Really Want to Work Here? Testing a Model of Job Pursuit for MBA Interns

Job pursuit refers to the intentions, decisions, or behaviors indicative of a candidate's interest in a particular employer. This study develops and tests a process model of job pursuit for MBA interns with data collected before, during, and after their internships. Our model integrates theory from the person-environment fit and organizational socialization literature. Results show pre-entry person-organization (P-O) fit and social aspects tactics jointly motivate proactive information seeking about the employer (from those inside and outside the assigned department) during the internship, and interactively motivate information seeking outside the assigned department. Yet, only information seeking inside the assigned department is related to learning about the employer. Learning about the employer also predicts job-acceptance intentions, which in turn predicts job-acceptance decisions. The model developed in this study should serve as a guide to help human resource managers understand job pursuit and acceptance in internships and other similar employment relationships
A bremsstrahlung-identification technique for cosmic-ray electrons and positrons

Abstract We introduce a new technique to separate energetic e + and e − from a background of other particles. The technique utilizes a selective trigger, radiation of bremsstrahlung photons by incident e ± , magnetic deflection of the e ± after photon emission, and the separate detection of both the e ± and the photons in a shower detector. Descriptions are given of a balloon-borne apparatus using this technique for cosmic-ray e ± spectral measurements in the energy range from 5 to 50 GeV. Calibrations of the apparatus at particle accelerators and the method of flight data analysis are also described. Our balloon-borne apparatus provides an efficiency of about 50% for the detection of e ± and a proton rejection of about 10 −5 .
Instantaneous Three-Dimensional Vorticity Measurements in Vortical Flow over a Delta Wing

An attempt is made to explore the structures in the vortical flow over a delta wing by spatio-temporal measurements of velocity vectors and subsequent evaluation of vorticity vectors. A novel probe, with good spatial resolution, to measure the multipoint velocity vector has been designed and constructed. Tests results of the statistical properties from the measurements of instantaneous velocity and vorticity vectors in the turbulent boundary layers gave confidence to investigate the vortices over a 45-deg-swept-back delta wing and to explore their complex structure with this probe. The present measurements indicated the existence of discrete stationary vortices in the feeding shear layer region as well as a primary vortex where mean vorticity is at maximum and where the mean velocity excess is about 1.3U o . Large vorticity fluctuations, of the order of three to six times the mean vorticity, were measured between the low speed side of the shear layer and the surface of the delta wing. Such fluctuating vorticity statistics are presented for the first time. The shear layer reattachment zone and the region of secondary separation are associated with intense turbulence activities.
Exact asymptotics of the uniform error of interpolation by multilinear splines

The question of adaptive mesh generation for approximation by splines has been studied for a number of years by various authors. The results have numerous applications in computational and discrete geometry, computer aided geometric design, finite element methods for numerical solutions of partial differential equations, image processing, and mesh generation for computer graphics, among others. In this paper we will investigate the questions regarding adaptive approximation of C^2 functions with arbitrary but fixed throughout the domain signature by multilinear splines. In particular, we will study the asymptotic behavior of the optimal error of the weighted uniform approximation by interpolating and quasi-interpolating multilinear splines.
Tax avoidance, tax management and corporate social responsibility

Abstract This study examines the effect of three measures of corporate social responsibility (CSR) — corporate governance, community and diversity on tax avoidance in firms that use auditor‐provided tax services. This is one of the first studies, to our knowledge, to empirically relate tax avoidance, tax management and CSR literature. By separating the strengths and concerns for each CSR measure, we are able to analyze the effects of a firm's negative and positive social actions on tax avoidance. We find that the interaction of community concerns with tax management fees positively affects both GAAP and Cash ETR, while the interaction of corporate governance strengths and diversity concerns with tax management fees negatively affects Cash ETR. Our results are similar when we use Excess ETR that is not explained by firm specifics. We find additional evidence that CSR affects tax avoidance when we divide firms into portfolios based on CSR levels. Our findings suggest that future studies on tax avoidance and tax management should incorporate CSR.
The poverty of sustainability: rescuing economics from platitudes

The idea of sustainability has become confused and incoherent. If sustainability is to regain a plausible pertinence to economic policy it must be understood to encompass two realms: (1) human interaction with nature; and (2) human interaction with others with respect to their interaction with nature. The on-going redefinition of the purposes of nature requires that institutions—norms, rules-property regimes—undergo constant evolution so that human action conduces to nondestructive action. Caution in the social realm is the greatest risk to environmental sustainability.
Qualitative analysis of Brans-Dicke universes with a cosmological constant

Solutions to flat space Friedmann-Robertson-Walker cosmologies in Brans-Dicke theory with a cosmological constant are investigated. The matter is modeled as a {gamma}-law perfect fluid. The field equations are reduced from fourth order to second order through a change of variables, and the resulting two-dimensional system is analyzed using dynamical system theory. When the Brans-Dicke coupling constant is positive ({omega}>0), all initially expanding models approach exponential expansion at late times, regardless of the type of matter present. If ({omega} < 0), then a wide variety of qualitatively distinct models are present, including nonsingular {open_quotes}bounce{close_quotes} universes, {open_quotes}vacillating{close_quotes} universes, and, in the special case of {omega} = -1, models which approach stable Minkowski spacetime with an exponentially increasing scalar field at late times. Since power-law solutions do not exist, none of the models appears to offer any advantage over the standard deSitter solution of general relativity in achieving a graceful exit from inflation. 17 refs., 4 figs., 2 tabs.
First order phase transitions and the three-state potts model

Abstract We have used the Monte-Carlo RG technique to study 3-state Potts models in 2, 3 and 4 dimensions. The 2d order-disorder phase transition is associated with a second order fixed point. First order transitions are found in 3d and 4d. However, they are not associated with discontinuity fixed points.
Electrical and thermal conductivities of reduced graphene oxide/polystyrene composites

The author reports an experimental study of electrical and thermal transport in reduced graphene oxide (RGO)/polystyrene (PS) composites. The electrical conductivity (σ) of RGO/PS composites with different RGO concentrations at room temperature shows a percolation behavior with the percolation threshold of ∼0.25 vol. %. Their temperature-dependent electrical conductivity follows Efros-Shklovskii variable range hopping conduction in the temperature range of 30–300 K. The thermal conductivity (κ) of composites is enhanced by ∼90% as the concentration is increased from 0 to 10 vol. %. The thermal conductivity of composites approximately linearly increases with increasing temperature from 150 to 300 K. Composites with a higher concentration show a stronger temperature dependence in the thermal conductivity.
Optimization Method for Educing Variable-Impedance Liner Properties

A new approach to educing normal incidence acoustic impedance of nonuniform test specimens in grazing incidence and grazing-flow environments is described. An optimization algorithm is shown to provide an efficient means for searching out an impedance distribution to match the measured acoustic field along the upper wall of a duct opposite the test specimen. The flow duct is allowed to transmit multimodal, nonprogressive acoustic waves in a flow environment; however, only a no-flow environment is discussed. A key feature of the method is the expansion of the impedance function as a plecewise continuous polynomial with undetermined coefficients. The upper wall acoustic pressure is computed numerically as a function of these coefficients by using a finite element method. The Davidon-Fletcher-Powell optimization algorithm is used to educe the normal incidence impedance by determining the values of the undetermined coefficients that minimize the difference between the measured and the numerically computed upper wall pressure. Results show that this more robust method reduces by a factor of 30 the time required to make impedance determinations as compared with the contour deformation method and is better suited for liners with spatially varying impedance.
Polymerization of Formaldehyde

Abstract A review is presented that covers the chemistry of various routes from formaldehyde to high-molecular-weight polyoxymethylenes, and emphasizes recent developments. The requirements of a feasible addition polymerization system are enumerated. The variety of possible polymerization mechanisms is illustrated by discussions of representative anionic, organometallic, and cationic initiator systems. The fundamental concepts of condensation polymerization of formaldehyde in aqueous or alcoholic media are considered in some detail, the analogy to crystallization is developed, and the effect of temperature, degree of supersaturation, and catalyst on the relative extent of growth versus nucleation is discussed. Techniques are described for preparing active seed polymer and for minimizing end-group occlusion during growth. Examples are given of the preparation of polymer of macromolecular properties from both water and methanol solutions. The recently discovered metastable orthorhombic form of polyoxymethyl...
Overview of the New Horizons Science Payload

The New Horizons mission was launched on 2006 January 19, and the spacecraft is heading for a flyby encounter with the Pluto system in the summer of 2015. The challenges associated with sending a spacecraft to Pluto in less than 10 years and performing an ambitious suite of scientific investigations at such large heliocentric distances (>32 AU) are formidable and required the development of lightweight, low power, and highly sensitive instruments. This paper provides an overview of the New Horizons science payload, which is comprised of seven instruments. Alice provides moderate resolution (∼3–10 A FWHM), spatially resolved ultraviolet (∼465–1880 A) spectroscopy, and includes the ability to perform stellar and solar occultation measurements. The Ralph instrument has two components: the Multicolor Visible Imaging Camera (MVIC), which performs panchromatic (400–975 nm) and color imaging in four spectral bands (Blue, Red, CH4, and NIR) at a moderate spatial resolution of 20 μrad/pixel, and the Linear Etalon Imaging Spectral Array (LEISA), which provides spatially resolved (62 μrad/pixel), near-infrared (1.25–2.5 μm), moderate resolution (λ/δ λ∼240–550) spectroscopic mapping capabilities. The Radio Experiment (REX) is a component of the New Horizons telecommunications system that provides both radio (X-band) solar occultation and radiometry capabilities. The Long Range Reconnaissance Imager (LORRI) provides high sensitivity (V<18), high spatial resolution (5 μrad/pixel) panchromatic optical (350–850 nm) imaging capabilities that serve both scientific and optical navigation requirements. The Solar Wind at Pluto (SWAP) instrument measures the density and speed of solar wind particles with a resolution ΔE/E<0.4 for energies between 25 eV and 7.5 keV. The Pluto Energetic Particle Spectrometer Science Investigation (PEPSSI) measures energetic particles (protons and CNO ions) in 12 energy channels spanning 1–1000 keV. Finally, an instrument designed and built by students, the Venetia Burney Student Dust Counter (VB-SDC), uses polarized polyvinylidene fluoride panels to record dust particle impacts during the cruise phases of the mission.