cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polymer-polymer interactions in dextran systems using thermal analysis

Abstract Miscibility of carbohydrate polymers with similar chemistry at low water activity (aw) was studied using dextran mixtures as model systems. Dextrans with weight-average molecular weights (Mw) ranging from 970 to 2,000,000 were used. Mixtures were prepared both by blending in powder form, and by dissolving in water and mixing, followed by freeze-drying. All mixture samples were equilibrated at aw=0.33, and their glass transition temperatures (Tg) were determined by thermal analysis. For pure dextrans, Tg increased with Mw up to a critical Mw approximately between 23,000 and 30,000; reaching a plateau at higher Mw. The physical blend of dextrans in powder form resulted in dual Tg even after melting of the blends, indicating immiscibility; whereas for dextrans that were dissolved in water and mixed, only one Tg was observed, indicating miscibility. Tg of miscible systems was better related to the number-average molecular weight than weight-average molecular weight.
Note---A Note: Hidden Nonlinearities in the Application of Goal Programming

This note identifies instances where nonlinearities may occur in the application of goal programming. An illustration is presented and implications discussed.
Physiological stimuli of thirst and drinking patterns in ponies.

Summary The stimuli that elicit thirst were studied in four ponies. Nineteen hours of water deprivation produced an increase in plasma protein from 67 ± 0.1 g/litre to 72 ± 2 g/litre, a mean (± se) increase in plasma sodium from 139 ± 3 to 145 ± 2 mmol/litre and an increase in plasma osmolality from 297 ± 1 to 306 ± 2 mosmol/litre. Undeprived ponies drank 1.5 ± 0.9 kg/30 mins; 19 h deprived ponies drank 10.2 ± 2.5 kg/30 mins and corrected the deficits in plasma protein, plasma sodium and plasma osmolality as well as compensating for the water they would have drunk during the deprivation period. In order to determine if an increase in plasma osmolality would stimulate thirst, 250 ml of 15 per cent sodium chloride was infused intravenously. The ponies drank when osmolality increased 3 per cent and when plasma sodium rose from 136 ± 3 mmol/litre to 143 ± 3 mmol/litre. Ponies infused with 15 per cent sodium chloride drank 2.9 ± 0.7 kg; those infused with 0.9 per cent sodium chloride drank 0.7 ± 0.5 kg. In order to determine if a decrease in plasma volume would stimulate thirst, ponies were injected with 1 or 2 mg/kg bodyweight (bwt) frusemide. Plasma protein rose from 68 ± 2 g/litre pre-injection to 75 ± 2 g/litre 1 h after 1 mg/kg bwt frusemide and to 81 ± 1 g/litre 1 h after 2 mg/kg bwt frusemide. Ponies treated with 1 mg/kg frusemide voided 5.3 ± 0.81 kg urine and drank 3.0 ± 2 kg water. Ponies injected with 2 mg frusemide voided 6.4 ± 5 kg urine and drank 4.3 ± 1.4 kg water. Controls injected with 0.9 per cent sodium chloride voided 1.5 ± 0.5 kg urine and drank 0.9 ± 0.6 kg water. When food and water were freely available the ponies drank 27 ± 8 mins/day, 89 per cent of which occurred within a period from 10 mins before to 30 mins after feeding. They drank 8.7 ± 0.9 kg/day at a rate of 552 ± 232 ml/min. It was concluded that ponies usually drink periprandially and when challenged with either an increase in the osmotic pressure of their body fluids or a decrease in the volume of their body fluids they responded by increasing their water intake.
High sensitivity, simultaneous second- and third-order autocorrelation measurement in a GaAsP photomultiplier tube

We demonstrate a novel method for high sensitivity measurement of pulsed light using a GaAsP photomultiplier tube. 2nd- and 3rd-order autocorrelations are obtained simultaneously by modulating the input power and analyzing the RF harmonic components.
What Is the Optimal First-Line Agent in Children Requiring Antihypertensive Medication?

There has been an evolution in the understanding of the treatment of hypertension in children and adolescents over the past decade. This has been fueled in part by the increased attention paid to the clinical problem, given the increasing numbers of children and adolescents being diagnosed with this condition. There has also been a growing number of clinical trials performed and completed that demonstrate the blood pressure (BP)-lowering effects of antihypertensives and the side effect profiles of these medications, and that has led to FDA-labeling of many antihypertensive medications for use in children and adolescents. However, none of these trials has provided definitive data on the optimal first line agent for this patient population. Clinical experience and other approaches discussed in this review are still necessary to guide treatment of hypertension in the young. The quest for the optimal antihypertensive agent is just beginning, and it is going to take some extraordinary effort to reach that goal.
An In Situ Transmission Electron Microscope Deformation Study of the Slip Transfer Mechanisms in Metals

The slip transfer mechanisms across grain boundaries in 310 stainless steel, high-purity aluminum, and a Ni-S alloy have been studied by using thein situ transmission electron microscope (TEM) deformation technique. Several interactions between mobile lattice dislocations and grain boundaries have been observed, including the transfer and generation of dislocations at grain boundaries and the nucleation and propagation of a grain boundary crack. Quantitative conditions have been established to correctly predict the slip transfer mechanism.
The graphs of the unambiguous entries in the product of two (+, −) sign pattern matrices

Abstract As a model problem in qualitative matrix technology, we consider the possible arrangements of unambiguously signed entries in a product of sign pattern matrices. Among many results, the permutation digraphs that occur as digraphs of the unambiguous entries of the square of a sign pattern matrix are characterized.
Chromatic studies of a polymerizable diacetylene hydrogen bonding self-assembly : A self-folding process to explain the chromatic changes of polydiacetylenes

In the present study, a new diacetylene compound (PDATAZ), which readily forms a complementary hydrogen bonding self-assembly at the air−water interface or in the solid state with barbituric acid (BA) or cyanuric acid (CA), was designed and synthesized. The photopolymerization studies of PDATAZ and its assembly with BA or CA have revealed some important insights on the chromatic properties of polydiacetylenes. It was found that the chromatic property of polydiacetylenes is determined by whether the polymer chain is capable of adopting a linear chainlike shape. With the continuous increase of the length of the polymer chain, the original linear polyenyne backbone starts to “self-fold” to a “zigzag” structure due to the free rotation of single bonds within the polymer chain. The efficient π-electron delocalization along the polyenyne backbone is interrupted by this process, leading to a chromatic change from the blue to red form of polydiacetylenes. If there are strong intermolecular interactions existing b...
Self-ordered defect structures in two model F/M steels under in situ ion irradiation

Abstract Two model F/M steels, 9Cr-model and 12Cr-model, were irradiated with 1 MeV Kr ions in situ in a TEM at temperatures between 20 K and 573 K to doses as high as 15 dpa. During the early stages of irradiation of the two F/M steels, defect clusters were rather uniformly distributed within grains, and a saturation density was quickly reached. However, at higher doses, self-ordering alignments of defect clusters were found in some grains. The regularly ordered arrays of small loops were observed in the two F/M steels along 〈1 1 0〉 directions with spacing about 30–50 nm. Once the aligned structure was created, it was stable under further irradiation. The possible mechanisms for the “self-organization”/“ordering” of the clusters were investigated. This paper describes the process and its temperature dependence, and the possible mechanisms are discussed.
Interferometric Measurements of Wave-Lengths in the Spectrum of Mercury Isotope 198

Six lines in the spectrum of Hg198 in the range 5790 to 3650A have been measured with Fabry-Perot etalons. The wave-lengths obtained were 5790.6627, 5769.5984, 5460.7531, 4358.3376, 4046.5716, and 3650.1569A. These results are compared with those previously reported.
Optimal Linear Inventory Control and First Order Exponential Smoothing

A linear, fixed-interval stock replenishment policy that achieves an optimal cost balance between inventory and order-level variances is derived in this paper. The reorder rule relies on an exponentially weighted moving average to smooth random components of the demand sequence, which are assumed to be pairwise uncorrelated with mean zero and variance that either grows or decays geometrically, or remains constant in time.
Perception and extrapolation of velocity and acceleration.

A moving target disappeared behind a screen and subjects predicted when the target passed behind a marker on the screen. When the target moved with constant velocity, predictions were extremely accurate, regardless of the spatial and temporal exposure and concealment of the target and regardless of its rate of velocity. When the target accelerated, accuracy of prediction decreased with increasing acceleration and with increasing target concealment. Analyses of the results suggest that the perception of velocity and acceleration is direct and accurate and that extrapolation of velocity and acceleration incorporates concrete and abstract characteristics of the motion that was seen. It is proposed that the motion perception system is tuned to accelerated rather than to constant velocity movement. Language: en
The maintenance of the Pacific North Equatorial Countercurrent by thermal/mixing processes

The strength and latitudinal position of the principal transport in the Pacific North Equatorial Countercurrent has been developed theoretically by Sverdrup (1947) and by Reid (1948) to be the result of a mass redistribution in response to Ekman divergence on the β-plane. More recently, the principal transport of the Countercurrent was found in the surface layer above the thermocline (Wyrtki and Kendall, 1967) and a good approximation for the Countercurrent transport in the upper layer (< 150 m) can be obtained by considering only the slope of the thermocline in a fashion after the Margules equation. Independently, Miropol'skiy (1970) developed a two-layer thermocline model from considerations of the conservation of heat and turbulent kinetic energy that prescribes the thickness of the upper layer in terms of the net heat flux and the flux of momentum across the sea surface. Therefore, it is possible that meridional variations in these fluxes could produce a meridional slope in the thermocline (a redistribution of mass induced by heating and mixing) that would be in geostrophic equilibrium with the flow in the upper layer. To determine whether this thermal/mixing process could maintain the Pacific North Equatorial Countercurrent, the long-term mean meridional profile of the heat and momentum fluxes at the sea surface were used to calculate the ‘thermal/mixing’ transport from 2·5°N to 10°N along 122·5°W. The direction of the ‘thermal/mixing’ transport is calculated to be eastward between 5 and 10°N in agreement with the long-term mean averaged direction of the North Equatorial Countercurrent (Kendall, 1970), and in agreement with the results of Sverdrup's theory. In addition, the magnitude of the ‘thermal/mixing’ transport is comparable to the observed geostrophic transport of the Countercurrent, corresponding to a maximum vertically averaged eastward speed of 35 cm s−1 near 7·5°N.
Simultaneous Inference of View and Body Pose using Torus Manifolds

Inferring 3D body pose as well as viewpoint from a single silhouette image is a challenging problem. We present a new generative model to represent shape deformations according to view and body configuration changes on a two dimensional manifold. We model the two continuous states by a product space (different configurations times different views) embedded on a conceptual two dimensional torus manifold. We learn a nonlinear mapping between torus manifold embedding and visual input (silhouettes) using empirical kernel mapping. Since every view and body pose has a corresponding embedding point on the torus manifold, inferring view and body pose from a given image becomes estimating the embedding point from a given input. As the shape varies in different people even in the same view and body pose, we extend our model to be adaptive to different people by decomposing person dependent style factors. Experimental results with real data as well as synthetic data show simultaneous estimation of view and body configuration from given silhouettes from unknown people
Rapid Prototyping of Heterotypic Cell-Cell Contacts

Disparities in cellular behaviour between cultures of a single cell type and heterogeneous co-cultures require constructing spatially-defined arrays of multiple cell types. Such arrays are critical for investigating cellular properties as they exist in vivo. Current methods rely upon covalent surface modification or external physical micromanipulation to control cellular organization on a limited range of substrates. Here, we report a direct approach for creating co-cultures of different cell types by microcontact printing a photosensitive cell resist. The cell-resistant polymer converts to cell adhesive with light exposure, thus the initial copolymer pattern dictates the position of both cell types. This strategy enables straightforward preparation of tailored heterotypic cell–cell contacts on materials ranging from polymers to metallic substrates.
A new graphical method for determining parameters in Michaelis–Menten‐type kinetics for enzymatic lactose hydrolysis

A new graphical method was developed to determine the kinetic parameters in the Michaelis-Menten-type equation. This method was then applied to studying the kinetics of lactose hydrolysis by Aspergillus niger beta-galactosidase. In this study, the reaction temperature ranged between 8 and 60 degrees C, and the initial lactose concentration ranged between 2.5 and 20%. A kinetic model similar to the conventional Michaelis-Menten equation with competitive product inhibition by galactose was tested using this graphical method as well as a nonlinear computer regression method. The experimental data and the model fit together fairly well at 50 degrees C. However, a relative large disparity was found for reactions at 30 degrees C. A three-parameter integrated model derived from the reversible reaction mechanism simulates the experimental data very well at all temperatures studied. However, this reversible reaction model does not follow the Arrhenius temperature dependence. Nevertheless, reaction rate constants for the proposed model involving the enzyme-galactose complex (in addition to the Michaelis complex) as an intermediate in lactose hydrolysis follow the Arrhenius temperature dependence fairly well, suggesting that this model can be best used for describing the enzymatic lactose hydrolysis. The lack of fit between the model predictions and data may be largely attributed to the effects of galactose mutarotation and oligosaccharide formation during lactose hydrolysis.
More Manuscripts of the Dragmaticon and Philosophia of William of Conches

DOM WILMART, in printing a preface of William of Conches for the last part of the Dragmaticon in his Analecta Reginensia,' increased my list of manuscripts of that work2 to forty. I may now perhaps be permitted to return the complimentor complement by noting yet a few further codices of that work. E. Zinner in his Verzeichnis der astronomischen Handschriften des deutschen Kulturgebietes (Verlag C. H. Beck, Muinchen, 19925), Nos 2024-2027, 'Wilh. de Conches, Philosophie ii,' lists four manuscripts, of which only one is noted by Dom Wilmart, while Erfurt, Amplon. Octavo 85, was misplaced by me under the Philosophia (Zinner's 'Philosophie i'). The other two are: Berne 467, fourteenth century, fols 58-65v; Frankfurt-am-Main Q. 134, thirteenteenth century, fols 1-44.3 Charles H. Haskins in Speculum, ii (1927), 477-478, noted Milan, Ambros. E. 12. inf., thirteenth century, fol. 447. To these items I may further add: Cambridge, University Library 1528 (Gg. iv. 29), fourteenth century, fols 26v-63r; Vatican Palat. Lat. 1040, anon. but opening, 'Queris venerande dux...'; Vatican Palat. Lat. 1570, Normandie ducis dialogus, and what might prove to be a fragment of it, Oxford Christchurch 99, fourteenth century, fols 134-135, 'Disputatio magistralis inter ducem et philoso-
Search on lines and graphs

In this paper we investigate discrete linear search and graph search problems. It is well-known that the Bounded Discrete Linear Search Problem (BDLSP) can be solved efficiently using a dynamic programming approach. However, we show that its generalization to the graph case—the Graph Search Problem (GSP)—is NP-complete. We further consider the Discrete Linear Search Problem with unbounded search domain (UBDLSP). We first establish that for an optimal policy to exist for a general UBDLSP it is both necessary and sufficient for the double-sided mean of its underlying distribution to be finite. Then, we consider a special class of UBDLSPs—symmetric UBDLSPs—and prove the expanding property of optimal policies for symmetric UBDLSPs. Based on the expanding property, we devise a procedure to approximate, by solving a sequence of finite-truncated BDLSPs, the optimal costs. We prove that the sequence of approximated optimal costs converges to the true optimal cost.
211: False Negative Virtual Crossmatch in Lung Transplantation

Purpose: At our institution, virtual crossmatch for thoracic organ transplantation utilizes a flow cytometry based PRA screening assay to determine the presence of anti HLA antibodies (Ab). In 15/16 cases, a negative virtual crossmatch (XM) successfully predicted a negative retrospective complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) XM. We determined the molecular basis of a discrepancy between the virtual cross-match and post-transplant positive CDC XM in a patient who underwent bilateral lung transplantation. Methods and Materials: Pre-transplant serum was analyzed using flow cytometry, ELISA, and single antigen bead assays. High resolution HLA typing was performed on donor tissue to assess donor HLA antigens. The presence of Ab was followed overtime utilizing flow cytometric analysis of donor cells with recipient serum. Results: Both the ELISA and flow cytometry PRA screens were negative for preformed antibody against HLA molecules. Following a positive CDC XM, single antigen Luminex based assay was performed and revealed anti-donor DR13 Ab. This Ab was eliminated using a protocol of apheresis, IVIG and anti CD20 therapy. Clinical improvement of the patient correlated with decreasing antibody titers following therapy. Conclusions: The current practice of utilizing a single method (ie flow cytometry PRA screen) to assess patients for the presence of anti HLA antibodies can result in the failure to identify clinically relevant Ab. The predictive value of the virtual crossmatch can be improved through the addition of a Luminex based assay system. A combination of plasma phoresis, IVIG and anti CD20 antibody can be used to successfully treat acute graft dysfunction associated with preformed donor specific anti HLA antibodies.
An Empirical Examination of the Social Bond Theory of Drug Use

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between control theory, measured through a created social bond scale, and the respondents' self-admitted drug use (alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, amphetamines, and barbiturates). An analysis was conducted of self-reported drug use data from a general Texas adult population. This analysis included a series of bivariate cross-comparison correlations between the independent variable (social bond) and the dependent drug variables. The relationship between the independent and dependent variables was further examined by calculating the correlation and level of significance within selected categories of several demographic (age, race, sex, education, income, and marital status) variables. The results showed a significant positive correlation between reduced social bonding and greater drug use. However, while these relationships were significant, they were relatively weak and of little explanatory value. It was concluded that Hirschi's social bond theory fails to provide an adequate explanation for the use of drugs within the framework of this analysis.
On the Constrained Attitude Control Problem

In this paper, we consider various classes of constrained attitude control (CAC) problem in single and multiple spacecraft settings. After categorizing attitude constraints into four distinct types, we provide an overview of the existing approaches to this problem. We then proceed to further expand on a recent algorithmic approach to the CAC problem. The paper concludes with an example demonstrating the viability of the proposed algorithm for a multiple spacecraft constrained attitude reconfiguration scenario.
A Polar−Nonpolar, Acetic Acid/Heptane, Solvent Medium for Degradation of Pyrene by Ozone

Pyrene of natural and anthropogenic sources is one of the toxic, mutagenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) listed as priority pollutants. The recalcitrant nature of pyrene and other PAHs lies in part in their low solubility in water, rendering them less susceptible to chemical or biological degradation. This work investigates the use of a polar−nonpolar (PNP) solvent system, in conjunction with ozonation, to overcome this remediation obstacle. The PNP solvent system consists of equal portions of polar acetic acid and nonpolar heptane. The heptane component enables high concentrations of pyrene to be dissolved, while the acetic acid keeps subsequently formed polar intermediates and byproducts in solution. This PNP solvent system maintains effective exposure of all compounds to aqueous ozone throughout the course of reaction and prevents the formation of solid precipitation. Following ozonation, the solvent system is added with a small amount of water that results in the formation of two distinct ph...
Building a secure, location transparent object invocation system

This paper addresses efficient object invocation in distributed systems. Such systems include support for transparent object migration between computers connected by a network, delegation and revocation of access to objects in a system, and very high speed communication between objects, whether they are located in the same machine or across the network from each other. Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) networks can be effectively utilized to implement many of the necessary features of secure, location transparent object invocation. By using the switch controller in an ATM network as a repository for location information, and by mapping virtual circuits to pairwise object interactions with explicitly declared rights of each object, we are able to provide a high performance system that is both secure and simple. >
Crown Colony as Banana Republic: The United Fruit Company in British Honduras, 1900–1920

In much historiography of the colonial Caribbean, British administrators are portrayed as mediators between domestic elites, foreign capital, and the working class. Such scholarship converges with popular belief in Belize, whose institutions are seen as a legacy of ‘impartial’ British rule. This article examines the relationship between the United Fruit Company and the colonial government of British Honduras. Contrary to claims of administrative impartiality, colonial officials facilitated the company's monopoly over the banana industry and acted as company advocates before the Colonial Office, actions that ultimately undermined the colony's independent banana producers.
Non-laser-based scanner for three-dimensional digitization of historical artifacts

A 3D scanner, based on incoherent illumination techniques, and associated data-processing algorithms are presented that can be used to scan objects at lateral resolutions ranging from 5 to 100 microm (or more) and depth resolutions of approximately 2 microm. The scanner was designed with the specific intent to scan cuneiform tablets but can be utilized for other applications. Photometric stereo techniques are used to obtain both a surface normal map and a parameterized model of the object's bidirectional reflectance distribution function. The normal map is combined with height information, gathered by structured light techniques, to form a consistent 3D surface. Data from Lambertian and specularly diffuse spherical objects are presented and used to quantify the accuracy of the techniques. Scans of a cuneiform tablet are also presented. All presented data are at a lateral resolution of 26.8 microm as this is approximately the minimum resolution deemed necessary to accurately represent cuneiform.
An Ultrasonic/Optical Pulse Sensor for Precise Distance Measurements

The combined ultrasonic transit time and optical pulse method described here is an improvement over the standard ultrasonic echo by providing a lower signal loss and more precise location of sensor reference points, specifically the transmitting and receiving transducers. The ultrasonic transit time sensor described here uses only a one-way ultrasonic pulse. The transit time, typically 0.5 to 50 ms, is proportional to the distance between the ultrasonic transmitter and receiver transducers. There are three advantages: (1) the ultrasonic signal loss is much less, (2) the location of the transducers is well defined, and (3) the phase and pulse shapes are controlled and reproducible. An optical pulse is used to synchronize the transmitter and receiver. In this version the optical pulse is sent from the ultrasonic receiver unit, initiated by its microcontroller, to the ultrasonic transmitter unit
Clinical experience with daptomycin: bacteraemia and endocarditis

Serious infections due to Staphylococcus aureus, especially those due to methicillin-resistant S. aureus, have become a major challenge. Vancomycin has long been the drug of choice for treatment of such infections, but failures due to its slow bactericidal activity coupled with increasing MICs have necessitated a search for new, more effective agents. Daptomycin has been studied by a number of investigators and has proved to be effective for bacteraemic infections due to staphylococci as well as vancomycin-resistant enterococci and other Gram-positive organisms. In addition, in a randomized controlled trial comparing daptomycin monotherapy with potentially synergistic therapy with either vancomycin or beta-lactam, both used in combination with an aminoglycoside, daptomycin achieved comparable outcomes but with significantly less nephrotoxicity.
Artificial neural network medical decision support tool: predicting transfusion requirements of ER patients

Blood product transfusion is a financial concern for hospitals and patients. Efficient utilization of this dwindling resource is a critical problem if hospitals are to maximize patient care while minimizing costs. Traditional statistical models do not perform well in this domain. An additional concern is the speed with which transfusion decisions and planning can be made. Rapid assessment in the emergency room (ER) necessarily limits the amount of usable information available (with respect to independent variables available). This study evaluates the efficacy of using artificial neural networks (ANNs) to predict the transfusion requirements of trauma patients using readily available information. A total of 1016 patient records are used to train and test a backpropagation neural network for predicting the transfusion requirements of these patients during the first 2, 2-6, and 6-24 h, and for total transfusions. Sensitivity and specificity analysis are used along with the mean absolute difference between blood units predicted and units transfused to demonstrate that ANNs can accurately predict most ER patient transfusion requirements, while only using information available at the time of entry into the ER.
Ultrasound Radiation Force Enables Targeted Deposition of Model Drug Carriers loaded on Microbubbles

A novel drug delivery vehicle that specifically targets using ultrasound radiation force (USRF) and biotin-avidin interactions is presented. Model vehicles consist of avidinated fluorescent nanobeads bound directly to the biotinylated lipid shells of preformed microbubbles. USRF was used to deflect the vehicle from the center of flow to a tube surface in order to facilitate receptor-ligand mediated adhesion. At wall shear stress levels commensurate with venous and arterial flow, USRF was used to direct the vehicles to a biotinylated tube surface. Subsequent high-pressure pulses fragmented the carrier, and molecular interactions induced deposition of the nanobeads on the wall. Targeting of nanobeads to the tube was molecularly specific and dependent on, in order of importance, vehicle concentration, wall shear stress, nanobead size, and insonation time. The observation that portions of the microbubble lipid monolayer shell remain attached to adherent nanobeads is important for future consideration of drug transport mechanisms. This versatile method of delivery is shown to enable targeted deposition of nanoparticles in shear flow and could be modified to carry therapeutic agents for controlled release in targeted delivery applications.
Canopy reflectance in cotton for growth assessment and lint yield prediction

Abstract A field experiment was conducted in 2001–2002 to investigate relationships between canopy spectral reflectance and leaf area index (LAI), aboveground biomass (ABM), and lint yield of irrigated cotton across four N fertilizer rates of 0, 56, 112, and 168 kg N ha−1. These N rates were used to generate a wide range of difference in canopy structure and lint yield. Measurements of canopy reflectance were made throughout the growing season using a hand-held spectroradiometer. Samples for LAI and ABM were obtained four (2001) or five (2002) times during squaring and fruiting. Mean reflectance values in red (Rred) and near infrared (RNIR) regions were obtained from canopy reflectance data based on the Landsat Thematic Mapper bands. The reflectance ratio vegetation index (RVI), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), enhanced vegetation index (EVI), wide dynamic range vegetation index (WDRVI) as well as several hyperspectral reflectance indices were calculated. Most reflectance indices had exponential relationships with both LAI and ABM and reached saturation at high LAI and ABM, but were linearly correlated with log(LAI) and log(ABM). Relative lint yield was linearly correlated to the reflectance indices measured any time after the first square stage and the strongest correlation was obtained at the early flower stage with r2 of 0.56–0.89 (P
Thermally Stimulated Relaxation in Fe-Doped SrTiO3 Systems: II. Degradation of SrTiO3 Dielectrics

Thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) measurements were carried out on degraded SrTiO3 crystals and ceramics to investigate the relationship between depolarization effects and degradation phenomena. Using this technique, the origins of dielectric relaxations in Fe-doped SrTiO3 crystals and ceramics have been verified; the physical origins of relaxation mechanisms were later linked to the transient leakage behavior of the samples undergoing degradation from oxygen vacancy migration. In the course of degradation in a single crystal system, the migration of oxygen vacancies, , and the build-up of an internal bias are detected through the TSDC measurements on samples with different degradation levels. Using a curve fitting method, trap charge concentration on the order of 1014 cm−3 is obtained in the single crystal system. Other than those relaxation mechanisms identified in the single crystal system, extra relaxation mechanism was found in the polycrystalline systems and was attributed to the relaxation of oxygen vacancies across grain boundaries. Using the initial rise method, the activation energies estimated for the relaxation of defect dipoles, the in-grain oxygen vacancies pile up at grain boundaries, and relaxation of oxygen vacancies across grain boundaries are 0.73±0.03, 0.86±0.07, and 1.1±0.09 eV, respectively. An ionic demixing model is applied to account for the evolution of TSDC spectra and to bridge changes to the leakage behavior of the degraded samples. In the case of the polycrystalline system, it is suggested that a strong degradation to the insulation resistance occurs when oxygen vacancies migrate across grain boundaries and start to pile up at the cathode region of metallic electrodes. Before that point, the vacancies accumulate at partial blocking grain boundaries in each of the crystallites.
Physical Activity Benefits Creativity: Squeezing a Ball for Enhancing Creativity

Studies in embodied cognition show that physical sensations, such as touch and movement, influence cognitive processes. Two studies were conducted to test whether squeezing a soft versus a hard ball facilitates different types of creativity. Squeezing a malleable ball would increase divergent creativity by catalyzing multiple or alternative ideas, whereas squeezing a hard ball would increase convergent creativity by facilitating only a single correct response. In Study 1, participants squeezed either a hard ball or a soft ball while completing the Torrance Test of Creative Thinking (TTCT), a divergent creativity test. The same procedures were used in Study 2 except that the TTCT was replaced with the Remote Associates Test, a convergent creativity test. Participants who squeezed a soft ball generated more original and diverse ideas (Study 1), whereas participants who squeezed a hard ball were better at coming up with a single correct answer (Study 2).
Resource, state reassertion and international recognition: locating the drivers of Russia’s Arctic policy

Russia is probably the least-known actor of the Arctic, but it dominates the region geographically, conquered it historically very early on, is dependent on it for its economic development and is setting the tone on the region’s strategic sensibility. This article discusses the three main drivers that shape Russia’s Arctic policy: the search for new resources to maintain the country’s energy superpower status, the will to reassert state control over regions, territories and demographic trends, and to impose a state-funded industrial revival, and the hope for international recognition and integration into the world community. Behind the nationalist-tinged discourse, which is sometimes fairly aggressive towards the West, Russia’s goals in the Arctic region are pragmatic and domestically oriented. They deal with reasserting the state sovereignty and efficiency, developing new economic resources and reviving an industrial fabric which is globally in bad shape, integrating remote regions into the national infr...
Abstract 143: Behavioral Factors as Predictors of Poor Cardiovascular Health in Middle-School Students: Results from Project Healthy Schools (PHS)

Background: Behavioral factors that contribute to CVD risk are learned and begin early in life. The present study investigates which behaviors prevent or predispose children to develop CVD risk factors. Methods: Middle-school students enrolled in PHS (n=2,135), with consent from both parent and child, were divided into two cohorts: (1) Low Health-Behavior Achievers, (2) Others. From self-reported surveys, Low Health-Behavior Achievers were defined as students with all of the following behaviors: ≥ 5 hours of screen time/day; 0-1 sessions of moderate (30 min) or vigorous (20 min) physical activity/week; ≥ 2 high sugar beverages/day; ≥ 2 fried, fatty, or sweet foods/day; 0-1 servings of fruits and vegetables/day. The remaining students, who did not meet these parameters, were classified as Others. Physiological measurements (lipids, BMI, Recovery Heart Rate (RHR)) and survey data were collected at baseline and one year follow-up. Pearson chi-square tests determined significance. Results: Of the 2,135 students, 5.6% (119 of 2135) were excluded due to missingness. The distribution between cohorts was: Low Health-Behavior Achievers (28.5%, 609 of 2135) and Others (65.9%, 1407 of 2135). Compared to Others at baseline, Low Health-Behavior Achievers were more likely to be male (p=0.003), African American or Hispanic (p≤0.001), and enrolled in a school in Detroit or Ypsilanti (p≤0.001). For all physiological characteristics except triglycerides, Low Health-Behavior Achievers were found to have less ideal values as compared to Others. Differences were found for total cholesterol (p=0.006), LDL (p=0.011), weight (p≤0.001), and RHR (p≤0.001) (Figure). Following one year of PHS intervention, the percentage of Low Health-Behavior Achievers decreased from 28.5% (609 of 2135) to 24.3% (518 of 2135) (p≤0.001). Conclusion: In PHS, students defined as Low Health-Behavior Achievers were more likely to be male, African American or Hispanic, and enrolled in a lower income school district. Low Health-Behavior Achievers were also found to have less ideal physiological measurements. At one year follow-up, the percentage of Low Health-Behavior Achievers decreased by 4.2%. Future studies are needed to further investigate which behaviors serve as the most effective targets for intervention among middle-school students. ![Graphic][1] [1]: /embed/inline-graphic-1.gif
The Effect of Institutional Expenditures on Employment Outcomes and Earnings

In recent decades, public attention on colleges has risen in response to rising college expenditures and costs. This study uses the Education Longitudinal Study of 2002 to investigate how spending impacts salaries and employment outcomes, controlling for selection. Our findings indicate that spending on instruction increases salaries, the probability of full-time employment, and job match, particularly for more disadvantaged students, while there are smaller benefits of spending on student services for less disadvantaged students. Spending on research has large positive impacts on salary and the probability of full-time employment, especially for disadvantaged students. (JEL I20, J24)
Designed Natural Spaces: Informal Gardens Are Perceived to Be More Restorative than Formal Gardens.

Experimental research shows that there are perceived and actual benefits to spending time in natural spaces compared to urban spaces such as reduced cognitive fatigue, improved mood, and reduced stress. Whereas past research has focused primarily on distinguishing between distinct categories of spaces (i.e., nature versus urban), less is known about variability in perceived restorative potential of environments within a particular category of outdoor spaces, such as gardens. Conceptually, gardens are often considered to be restorative spaces and to contain an abundance of natural elements, though there is great variability in how gardens are designed that might impact their restorative potential. One common practice for classifying gardens is along a spectrum ranging from “formal or geometric” to “informal or naturalistic”, which often corresponds to the degree to which built or natural elements are present, respectively. In the current study, we tested whether participants use design informality as a cue to predict perceived restorative potential of different gardens. Participants viewed a set of gardens and rated each on design informality, perceived restorative potential, naturalness, and visual appeal. Participants perceived informal gardens to have greater restorative potential than formal gardens. In addition, gardens that were more visually appealing and more natural-looking were perceived to have greater restorative potential than less visually appealing and less natural gardens. These perceptions and precedents are highly relevant for the design of gardens and other similar green spaces intended to provide relief from stress and to foster cognitive restoration.
Considerations in Assessing Risk for Tailoring Spacecraft Unit Thermal Test Cycle Requirements

Increasing need to reduce the cost of space programs has resulted in higher scrutiny of test program requirements. Tailoring of test parameters to lower test stress levels is commonly proposed as a method to shorten program schedules. Test tailoring at the spacecraft unit level frequently focuses on the number of cycles in thermal cycle and thermal vacuum testing because test cycles greatly impact test cost. A consequence of reducing the number of cycles in unit-level thermal testing is an increased likelihood that latent defects will escape detection and pass into assembly and integration, where reduced-stress test environments decrease the chance of forcing latent defects into failures. In a worst-case situation, these escapes will not be found in vehicle-level testing but will become flight anomalies. Furthermore, test failures found at higher levels of assembly are significantly more expensive to repair due to vehicle access difficulty and program schedule pressures. As a result, cost savings realized in unit-level test reductions may be offset by considerably higher costs of repairing unit-level test defect escapes as they are found in subsystem or vehicle-level testing. Despite these risks, many current space programs require tailoring of test requirements to meet schedule and cost constraints. Therefore, an assessment is made of unit features or opportunities that could reduce testing requirements while ensuring low risk of jeopardizing mission objectives. Design history, additional testing activities, and program risks are considered for potential test program improvements. Criteria are presented whereby a unit may successfully meet test objectives even with reduced test parameters.
Molecular cytology genotyping of primary and metastatic GI stromal tumors by using a custom two-gene targeted next-generation sequencing panel with therapeutic intent.

Background and Aims In an era of precision medicine, customized genotyping of GI stromal tumors by screening for driver mutations will become the standard of care. The fidelity of genotype concordance between paired cytology smears and surgical pathology specimens is unknown. In patients with either primary or metastatic sporadic disease, we sought to determine the frequency of KIT and PDGFRA pathogenic alterations within such specimens, imatinib sensitivity, and the concordance of pathogenic alterations between paired specimens. Methods DNA obtained from cytology smears from 36 patients, 24 of whom had paired surgical pathology specimens, underwent targeted next-generation sequencing by using a custom panel to evaluate somatic mutations within KIT (exon 2, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18) and PDGFRA (exon 12, 14, 15, 18) genes. Patients with KIT and PDGRFA wild-type genes completed the Qiagen Human Comprehensive Cancer GeneRead DNAseq Targeted Array V2. Results Genotyping revealed KIT and PDGFRA mutations in 68% and 15% of patients. The wild-type population did not harbor mutations in BRAF, RAS family, SDHB, SETD2, or NF1. Imatinib sensitivity based on the oncogenic kinase mutation prevalence was estimated to be 68%. Mutational concordance between paired cytology and surgical pathology specimens was 96%. Conclusions Our data have demonstrated the ability to stratify either primary or metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors by mutational subtype using a targeted next-generation sequencing 2 gene mutation panel. We highlight the ability to use cytology specimens obtained via minimally invasive techniques as a surrogate to surgical specimens given the high mutational landscape concordance between paired specimens.
Student Evaluation of the Experiential Learning Technique of Journaling for Marketing Education

This paper describes an empirical study which analyzes journaling as an experiential learning technique for marketing education. The journal assignment given to students in a consumer behavior course uses Kolb’s learning process which allows a student to experience all stages of learning. Based on student evaluations of this technique, results indicate an extremely favorable student attitude toward journaling.
Credit market bubble building? A forming credit bubble could burst by 2017

Bubble theories and concerns are becoming quite common these days for several asset classes, prompting discussions and warnings, including those from regulators. We now come to some key questions—are we in the midst of an inflating credit bubble and, if so, when is it likely that the bubble will burst? Contrarily, are we experiencing an extended period of opportunistic debt financing—a theory made popular amongst corporate finance theorists going back to at least the 1960s and 1970s. The evidence we have compiled leads us to conclude that, indeed, a bubble is building, but it is not likely to explode dramatically, with a significant increase in corporate bond and loan defaults, until at least late 2016 or more likely in 2017–2018. Fear, however, of a potential crisis in credit and equity markets, or major dislocations in important industries or countries, may contribute to periods of negative price movements and increased volatility in these, and other, asset classes before the bubble actually bursts.
Capitalism and Slavery after Fifty Years (1997)

Ten years ago I began an assessment of Capitalism and Slavery with my understanding of a classic: ‘If one criterion of a classic is its ability to reorient our most basic way of viewing an object or a concept, Eric Williams’ study supremely passes that test’.1 The passage of a fifth decade has provided abundant evidence of the pivotal status of Capitalism and Slavery. The original publisher reprinted the book in 1994 with a new Introduction by Colin A. Palmer.2 Hilary Beckles, Selwyn Carrington, William Darity and Thomas Holt, among others, have assessed Eric Williams’ impact upon, and inspiration for, West Indian scholars. Most recently, Walter Minchinton has demonstrated the sustained discussion of the Williams-Drescher debate among historians of Caribbean slavery. During the past decade Barbara Solow edited the results of two international conferences inspired by Williams’ scholarship. And, on the eve of the fiftieth anniversary of Capitalism and Slavery, Joseph Inikori delivered his Elsa Goveia Memorial Lecture on ‘Slavery and the Rise of Capitalism’.3
Searching for a dark photon with DarkLight

Abstract Despite compelling astrophysical evidence for the existence of dark matter in the universe, we have yet to positively identify it in any terrestrial experiment. If such matter is indeed particle in nature, it may have a new interaction as well, carried by a dark counterpart to the photon. The DarkLight experiment proposes to search for such a beyond-the-standard-model dark photon through complete reconstruction of the final states of electron–proton collisions. In order to accomplish this, the experiment requires a moderate-density target and a very high intensity, low energy electron beam. I describe DarkLight's approach and focus on the implications this has for the design of the experiment, which centers on the use of an internal gas target in Jefferson Lab's Low Energy Recirculating Facility. I also discuss upcoming beam tests, where we will place our target and solenoidal magnet in the beam for the first time.