cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Solar physics: Swirls in the corona

Observations made by NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory have been used to identify signatures of a conduit through which energy could be transported from the surface of the Sun into its corona. See Letter p.505 The Sun's outer atmosphere is hundreds of times hotter than the surface, reaching more than a million kelvin, but how sufficient energy is transferred and dissipated has remained a puzzle. Recent advances in high-resolution imaging of small-scale structures on the solar surface (from the Swedish 1-m Solar Telescope) revealed swirling events in the Sun's chromosphere, the atmospheric layer sandwiched between the corona and the photosphere. This paper reports observations from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory spacecraft that reveal rapidly rotating magnetic structures in the transition region and low corona that are associated with these chromospheric swirls. These structures, resembling 'super-tornadoes', reach from the convection zone into the upper solar atmosphere and provide an alternative mechanism for channelling energy from the lower to the upper solar atmosphere — a possible explanation for the heating of the outer solar atmosphere that results in the observed temperatures.
Suppression of Hop Looper (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) by the Fungicide Pyraclostrobin

The hop looper, Hypena humuli Harris, is a reemergent pest of hop that often requires treatment to mitigate crop damage. In 4 yr of field trials, plots treated with fungicides were observed to sustain less hop looper defoliation compared with nontreated plots. Further investigation revealed that abundance of hop looper and associated defoliation were reduced when the fungicide pyraclostrobin was applied in late July to early August. Two other fungicides possessing active ingredients in the same chemical family (quinone outside inhibitor) did not reduce abundance of hop looper or its defoliation. Pyraclostrobin is efficacious against powdery mildew diseases, and the application timing evaluated in these studies corresponds with a period of juvenile susceptibility of hop cones to the disease. Use of fungicides containing pyraclostrobin at this time may have the ancillary benefit of reducing hop looper damage, potentially obviating the need for broad-spectrum insecticides later in the season. Follow-up studies are warranted to determine whether pyraclostrobin may inhibit other lepidopteran species.
The Benefits of Frame Resonance Disputes for Transnational Movements: The Case of Botswana's Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Internal rifts over framing and tactics often hinder groups from mobilizing the degree of support and resources necessary to achieve their stated goals. As a result of disparities in political culture and ideology, the existence of such rifts may be especially frequent and disabling for forms of transnational collective action. However, using the case of the transnational movement lobbying on behalf of Botswana's minority groups, particularly the indigenous San, this paper argues that frame resonance disputes can sometimes facilitate the achievement of a movement's immediate goals. This is for two main reasons. First, by appealing to different audiences, the movement can gain complementary and reinforcing forms of legitimacy and support. Second, states and their societies may possess different points of vulnerability, which can be more effectively targeted through the simultaneous use of multiple frames. By helping minority groups receive legal entitlement to their ancestral lands and opening a debate abo...
Modeling the spatial distribution of landslide-prone colluvium and shallow groundwater on hillslopes of Seattle, WA

Landslides in partially saturated colluvium on Seattle, WA, hillslopes have resulted in property damage and human casualties. We developed statistical models of colluvium and shallow-groundwater distributions to aid landslide hazard assessments. The models were developed using a geographic information system, digital geologic maps, digital topography, subsurface exploration results, the groundwater flow modeling software VS2DI and regression analyses. Input to the colluvium model includes slope, distance to a hillslope–crest escarpment, and escarpment slope and height. We developed different statistical relations for thickness of colluvium on four landforms. Groundwater model input includes colluvium basal slope and distance from the Fraser aquifer. This distance was used to estimate hydraulic conductivity based on the assumption that addition of finer-grained material from down-section would result in lower conductivity. Colluvial groundwater is perched so we estimated its saturated thickness. We used VS2DI to establish relations between saturated thickness and the hydraulic conductivity and basal slope of the colluvium. We developed different statistical relations for three groundwater flow regimes. All model results were validated using observational data that were excluded from calibration. Eighty percent of colluvium thickness predictions were within 25% of observed values and 88% of saturated thickness predictions were within 20% of observed values. The models are based on conditions common to many areas, so our method can provide accurate results for similar regions; relations in our statistical models require calibration for new regions. Our results suggest that Seattle landslides occur in native deposits and colluvium, ultimately in response to surface-water erosion of hillslope toes. Regional groundwater conditions do not appear to strongly affect the general distribution of Seattle landslides; historical landslides were equally dispersed within and outside of the area potentially affected by regional groundwater conditions. Published in 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SIMPLIcity: a region-based retrieval system for picture libraries and biomedical image databases

In this demonstration, we present SIMPLIcity, an image retrieval system for picture libraries and biomedical image databases. The system uses a wavelet-based approach for feature extraction, real-time region segmentation, the Integration Region Matching (IRM) metric, and image classification methods. Tested on large-scale picture libraries and a database of pathology images, the system has demonstrated accurate and fast retrieval. It also exceptionally robust to image alterations.
Use of the AFCRL line parameters compilation to test the performance of an infrared spectrometer system

The resolution and the frequency accuracy of a spectrum and the abundance of an absorbing gas can be obtained by ratioing observed and calculated spectra. Line positions (to ±0.002 cm−1), spectral resolution (0.075 ± 0.003 cm−1), and a CO abundance [(2.35 ± 0.23) × 10−2 atm-cm (STP)] have been found by comparing an observed CO spectrum with a spectrum calculated from the AFCRL line parameter listing.
Message Framing, Self-Discrepancies, and Yielding to Persuasive Messages: The Motivational Significance of Psychological Situations

Subjects possessing two distinct types of self-discrepancies, actual: ideal (Al) and actual: ought (AO), read a persuasive message about the importance of eating breakfast, framed in terms of either positive or negative outcomes. On the basis of an analysis of each discrepancy type as a chronic, individual motivational force and each frame as a momentary, situational motivational force, the positive outcome frame was predicted to be more effective than the negative outcome frame in motivating AO subjects to change their eating patterns; the opposite was predicted for Al subjects. The results supported this prediction. AO subjects' thoughts, feelings, and intentions showed a stronger persuasive effect of positive outcome framing than of negative outcome framing; the opposite was true for AIsubjects. The predicted interaction was also found on an immediate behavioral commitment measure. On a delayed action measure, only the effect predicted for AO subjects was found.
Single-sideband spectral holographic optical memory.

Spectral holography provides for the storage of data-encoded, time-domain optical signals in frequency-selective recording materials. This capability may form the basis for entirely new classes of ultrahigh-speed and -density optical storage devices. We demonstrate the implementation of swept-carrier spectral-holographic data storage in a single-sideband mode. Temporal-waveform information originally encoded in double-sideband format is re-created but stripped of one of its sidebands. The process described can be used to achieve higher spectral storage densities or as an optical single-sideband conversion device.
Accelerator radiocarbon dating of artistic artifacts

Accelerator Mass Spectrometry is used to detect the cosmic- ray-produced radioactive isotope, 14C, in the organic material associated with artworks. The measured radiocarbon content of an artistic artifact, combined with a tree-ring calibration curve that relates radiocarbon content to calendar age, gives information concerning the age of the artifact. This age information can then be used to assist in establishing the authenticity, or lack thereof, of the artifact. Applications of the technique to the study of several artworks will be described.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Author reply: The Definition and Morality of Empathy:

I respond to two basic questions raised by my commentators: (a) What is the proper definition of empathy?; (b) What is the morality of empathy?
A simple method for bracketing absolute divergence times on molecular phylogenies using multiple fossil calibration points

A central challenge facing the temporal calibration of molecular phylogenies is finding a quantitative method for estimating maximum age constraints on lineage divergence times. Here, I provide such a method. This method requires an ultrametric tree generated without reference to the fossil record. Exploiting the fact that the relative branch lengths on the ultrametric tree are proportional to time, this method identifies the lineage with the greatest proportion of its true temporal range covered by the fossil record. The oldest fossil of this calibration lineage is used as the minimum age constraint. The maximum age constraint is obtained by adding a confidence interval onto the end point of the calibration lineage, thus making it possible to bracket the true divergence times of all lineages on the tree. The approach can also identify fossils that have been grossly misdated or misassigned to the phylogeny. The method assumes that the relative branch lengths on the ultrametric tree are accurate and that fossilization is random. The effect of violations of these assumptions is assessed. This method is simple to use and is illustrated with a reanalysis of Near et al.'s turtle data.
AN EXPERIMENTAL MODEL OF THE PRODUCTION OF EARLY AFTER DEPOLARIZATIONS BY INJURY CURRENT FROM AN ISCHEMIC REGION

An ischemic myocardial region contains cells with a depolarized resting membrane potential. This depolarization leads to an intercellular current flow between the ischemic region and the surrounding normal myocardial cells which has been termed an “injury current”. We have devised an experimental model system in which an isolated guinea pig ventricular cell is electrically coupled to a model depolarized cell in order to evaluate the effects of this injury current on the electrical properties of a normal ventricular cell exposed to drugs which increase calcium current or decrease potassium current. Using low doses of isoproterenol, forskolin, or Bay K 8644 (or 8-bromo-cyclic adenosine monophosphate in the pipette) we found that the action potential duration of the isolated cell was lengthened, but that early after depolarizations (EADs) were not produced unless the cell was also coupled to a depolarized cell model representing an adjacent ischemic region. A similar prolongation of the action potential was produced by low doses of quinidine, but EADs were not produced unless coupling to a depolarized cell model was added. EADs could not be produced in any cells in the absence of the drugs even though the coupling to the depolarized cell model was increased up to the level at which the action potential was indefinitely prolonged. At higher isoproterenol concentrations, EADs or spontaneous activity were produced without coupling to the depolarized cell model. Under these conditions, coupling of the cell to a cell model with normal resting membrane potential stopped the spontaneous activity and prevented the occurrence of EADs even with high levels of resistive coupling. These findings suggest that the electrotonic influences of a localized depolarized region can produce EADs if the calcium current magnitude is increased, which would be the case for sympathetic innervation.
Pipeline template and scheduling algorithm for mapping multiple loop nests on FPGA with limited resources

There are large numbers of high-level algorithms consisting of multiple loop nests in image compression, pattern recognition and digital signal processing. FPGA provides a convenient and flexible solution to speed up these loop-intensive algorithms. However, FPGA reconfiguration which needs a long time is inevitable when switching between the loop nests. This paper presents a parameterized pipeline template to execute all the loop nests in sequence without FPGA reconfiguration. Five steps are designed to decide the parameters. Experiments show that the pipeline template can achieve a comparative execution cycles for a loop comparing with the special hardware structure.
Total synthesis of (+)-discodermolide: a highly convergent fourth-generation approach.

A highly convergent, fourth-generation total synthesis of (+)-discodermolide (1), with a longest linear sequence of 17 steps and an overall yield of 9.0%, has been achieved. Highlighting the strategy is the efficient construction and sequential, bidirectional union of a linchpin comprising the C(9)−C(14) Wittig salt-vinyl iodide (−)-18. Importantly, Wittig salt generation proceeded in excellent yield under ambient pressure.
Introducing a Disturbance into Logit and Probit Regression Models

Logit and probit regression models for dichotomous data make no explicit allowance for heterogeneity induced by omitted explanatory variables or by random fluctuations. This article considers several alternative models for incorporating heterogeneity by the inclusion of a disturbance term. When all the observations are independent, the presence of the disturbance has few empirical consequences. In particular, the variance of the observed counts does not increase and conventional estimators are still appropriate. For some models, however, the disturbance variance may invalidate cross-population comparisons. Quite different implications arise with grouped data when there is a single realization of the disturbance for each group. The observed variance is increased and conventional estimators are inefficient. Several alternative estimators are considered.
SHOULD THERE BE KNO SCALING FOR e+–e− 2-JET EVENTS?

Background reasoning is given for our recent prediction that KNO scaling does not obtain for e+–e− two-jet events.
Global mean sea surface computation using GEOS 3 altimeter data

A mean sea surface map has been determined for the global ocean areas between +62 deg and -62 deg latitude using GEOS 3 altimeter data. A grid of laser reference orbits computed using the GEM 10B gravity model has been used to orient the altimeter data in a center of mass coordinate system. The density of the altimeter tracks has enabled the computation of the sea surface heights above the reference ellipsoid on 1 deg x 1 deg grid in most of the oceanic areas. In the northwest Atlantic the dense coverage has enabled computations on a 0.25 deg x 0.25 deg grid. Comparisons of the global surface with an independently computed mean sea surface based upon SEASAT altimeter data indicate an rms agreement of a little over a meter. Comparisons of the regional solution in the northwest Atlantic with SEASAT profiles indicate a precision of a few decimeters in this surface. An analysis of the global crossover differences has indicated the possibility of a timing error in the altimeter data. Timing bias values of within 0.5 msec of 9.2 msec for 1975 and within 0.6 msec of 18.7 msec for 1976 have been recovered from an analysis of the altimeter data.
Effects of starvation on bacterial transport through porous media

A major problem preventing widespread implementation of microbial injection strategies for bioremediation and/or microbially enhanced oil recovery is the tendency of bacteria to strongly adhere to surfaces in the immediate vicinity of the injection point. Long term (weeks to months) nutrient starvation of bacteria prior to injection can decrease attachment and enhance transport through porous media. This paper summarizes results of starvation-enhanced transport experiments in sand columns of 30 cm, 3 m, and 16 m in length. The 16 m column experiments compared transport, breakthrough and distribution of adhered cells for starved and vegetative cultures of Klebsiella oxytoca, a copious biofilm producer. Results from these experiments were subsequently used to design and construct a field-scale biofilm barrier using starved Pseudomonas fluorescens. The 30 cm and 3 m sand columns experiments investigated starvation-enhanced transport of Shewanella algae BrY, a dissimilatory metal-reducing bacterium. In both cases the vegetative cells adsorbed onto the sand in higher numbers than the starved cells, especially near the entrance of the column. These results, taken together with studies cited in the literature, indicate that starved cells penetrate farther (i.e. higher breakthrough concentration) and adsorb more uniformly along the flow path than vegetative cells.
Therapeutic uses of agonistic monoclonal antibodies to human lymphocyte cell-surface molecules

Abstract Many of the differentiation antigens expressed on lymphocytes are now known to be receptors for transmembrane signals that regulate activation and differentiation responses. The functions of these receptors have been discovered using monoclonal antibodies (MAb) that are functionally active after binding (agonistic antibodies). The natural ligands for many of the receptors (CD5, CD28, CD19, CD20, CD22, CDw40) are still unknown, whereas the natural ligands for others (CD2, CD4, CD8, CD18) have recently been identified as cell-surface molecules. It is likely that most of the natural ligands will be cell-surface molecules that cause receptor triggering during cell-cell contact. Although future therapeutics directed at this class of lymphocyte receptors may be designed from molecular models of ligand-receptor interactions, much can be learned from the active monoclonal antibodies that already exist.
Cytoskeletal changes induced by two avian sarcoma viruses: UR2 and Rous sarcoma virus.

Abstract UR2-transformed cells were examined by immunofluorescence and compared to control cells and cells transformed by Rous Sarcoma Virus (RSV). Actin and tubulin which are normally depolymerized in RSV-transformed cells appeared to be unaffected by UR2 transformation. Cell surface fibronectin which is normally lost from RSV-infected cells, appears more abundantly on UR2-transformed cells than on normal cells. Vinculin was shown to be in adhesion plaques in UR2-transformed cells as well as in control fibroblasts but diffuse in the cytoplasm of RSV-transformed cells. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of [ 35 S]methionine-labeled fibronectin and vinculin immunoprecipitated from lysates of normal and transformed cells indicated that cell associated fibronectin synthesized during the labeling period is reduced by 60% in RSV-transformed cells but occurs in normal amounts in UR2-transformed cells. However, immunoprecipitation of radiolabeled fibronectin released in supernatant fluids of normal and transformed cells showed a decreased amount of fibronectin in fluids from UR2-transformed cells, but a considerable increase in the medium from RSV-infected cells as compared to uninfected cultures. These data suggest that more fibronectin binds to the surface of UR2-transformed cells then to normal cells, but is readily released from RSV-transformed cells. Vinculin was reduced by about 50% of normal levels in both RSV- and U112-transformed. cells. Immunofluorescence studies using antibody to virion structural proteins ( gag ) show that the nuclei of UR2-transformed cells are not fluorescent. This indicates a cytoplasmic location or membrane association for p68 ros the transforming protein of UR2, which contains gag determinants. Overall, these data suggest that changes in the major cytoskeletal proteins of fibroblasts are not essential for the neoplastic properties of cells but are rather a phenotypic expression of transformation, since UR2, which causes tumors in vivo , induces only minor cytoskeletal alterations of cells transformed in vitro .
Effects of noise on sensitivity of introverts and extraverts to signals in a vigilance task

Abstract Forty Ss, previously classified as introverts or extraverts on the basis of scores on the Eysenck Personality Inventory, performed a visual vigilance task while being stimulated with noise at an intensity level of either 65 or 85 dB. Introverts given noise of 65 dB intensity showed an improvement in detection rate across trials, whereas introverts given noise of 85 dB intensity showed a decline in detection rate. Extraverts responded to noise of 65 dB intensity with a slight decrease in detection rate, but showed an improvement in detection over trials when noise of 85 dB intensity was given. When noise of the lower intensity was given, introverts showed greater sensitivity to signals than extraverts. When noise of the higher intensity was given, introverts and extraverts were equal in sensitivity. The results are discussed in terms of a hypothesized relationship between stimulation and arousal, with E-I as a moderator variable.
Grain Size Modeling and Optimization of Rotary Forged Alloy 718

The study presented describes the simulation procedure and methodology used to develop two models for predicting recrystallized grain size in Alloy 718 billet. To simulate multiple pass forging of billet, controlled, high temperature compression testing was used to apply alternate deformation and dwell cycles to Alloy 718 specimens. Grain size obtained by simulation was found to be in excellent agreement with grain size from forged billet when cooling rate was included. The study also revealed that strain per pass and forging temperature were the predominant factors in controlling the recrystallized grain size. Both models were found to accurately predict the recrystallized grain size obtained by compression tests performed at super-solvus temperatures.
How We See Them Versus How They See Themselves: A Cognitive Perspective of Firm— NGO Relationships

The present study complements current firm—nongovernment organization (NGO) literature by emphasizing the influence of managerial cognition on organizational behavior. In particular, I find that NGOs confront or seek to collaborate with other NGOs or with firms to appear as legitimate actors before selected third parties and as a way to access various sources of funds. By contrast, firm managers interacting with these NGOs are fundamentally concerned with achieving social stability so that their organizations can operate undisturbed. These different goals give rise to considerably dissimilar mental representations of the same reality—representations that subsequently inform strategic action by both types of actors.
Differential effects of two visual cortical lesions in the rabbit.

Abstract Acquisition and retention of brightness and pattern discrimination in rabbits with lesions of visual cortical areas Visual I or I + II was investigated. Rabbits with such lesions did not differ from normals in learning a brightness discrimination but those with Visual I + II lesions showed an impairment in retention of a preoperatively learned brightness discrimination. Rabbits with Visual I lesions were significantly impaired in acquisition of a pattern discrimination and rabbits with both lesions showed even more severe impairment on this task. The role of posterior thalamic nuclei and extrastriate cortex in visual discrimination is discussed.
Electrode-assisted catalytic water oxidation by a flavin derivative

The success of solar fuel technology relies on the development of efficient catalysts that can oxidize or reduce water. All molecular water-oxidation catalysts reported thus far are transition-metal complexes, however, here we report catalytic water oxidation to give oxygen by a fully organic compound, the N(5)-ethylflavinium ion, Et-Fl(+). Evolution of oxygen was detected during bulk electrolysis of aqueous Et-Fl(+) solutions at several potentials above +1.9 V versus normal hydrogen electrode. The catalysis was found to occur on glassy carbon and platinum working electrodes, but no catalysis was observed on fluoride-doped tin-oxide electrodes. Based on spectroelectrochemical results and preliminary calculations with density functional theory, one possible mechanistic route is proposed in which the oxygen evolution occurs from a peroxide intermediate formed between the oxidized flavin pseudobase and the oxidized carbon electrode. These findings offer an organic alternative to the traditional water-oxidation catalysts based on transition metals.
Charge Coupled Device (CCD) Imaging Applications--A Modular Approach

Buried channel charge coupled device TV technology has had an impact on the DOD sensor community to date, and with the imminent arrival of the CCD camera modules (resulting from the NAVE LEX sponsored CCD Modular Camera Program) it is anticipated that this trend will greatly accelerate. The characteristics of a family of versatile electro-optical building blocks satisfying a wide environmental range is de-scribed. The modules discussed include lens/ALC assemblies, several high performance thermo-electric cooled hermetic CCD device enclosures (typically 0.7 cubic inches), various logic, video processor, power supply, high efficiency temperature control circuits mounted on conventional printed circuit cards employing customized hybrid/MSI components. A unique module which allows direct coupling of image intensifiers to CCD arrays without the use of a vacuum enclosure is described. It is seen that appropriate selection of modules coupled with customized packaging/interconnect hardware presents attractive low cost high reliability alternatives to the present design/procurement techniques now associated with DOD-type TV cameras. Several applications of this technique are discussed including a current airborne cockpit television system, a TV training/scoring system used with the TOW missile program and an E/O missile guidance CCD seeker head.
Compulsory Policy Change and Divergence in Educational Attainment in Four Former Soviet Republics of Central Asia

For approximately seventy years, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan were part of a single educational system under the Soviet Union. Within only a few years of independence, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan decreased their compulsory education level to grade 9, but Kazakhstan continued to require attendance to grade 11. Data from UNICEF's Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, conducted in 2005-6 in each of the republics, provides the opportunity to test empirically whether observed differences among republics are significant and whether attainment in Kazakhstan is higher than in the other republics. Analyses confirm that residents of Kazakhstan are more likely to attend grade 11 and a higher education than residents of neighboring republics.
Chemisorption of water at high temperatures on kaolinite: effect on dehydroxylation.

The dehydroxylation reaction of kaolinite in a vacuum at 425°C is halted by introducing a water vapor pressure of 47 mm-Hg, and is resumed when the vacuum is reestablished. The sample gains weight corresponding to an approximately monomotecular layer of water on the kaolinite surface. At the temperatures and vapor pressures involved, the sorption is considered to be a chemisorption process.
Bariatric Outcomes are Significantly Improved in Hospitals with Fellowship Council-Accredited Bariatric Fellowships

With the increasing demand of bariatric surgery, there is a need to train more surgeons, while identifying institutional factors associated with improved outcomes. Little is known regarding the impact of a fellowship training program on institutional outcomes. This study examines the effect of bariatric fellowship program status on perioperative outcomes within New York state. Using the New York statewide planning and research cooperative system, 47,342 adult patients in 91 hospitals were identified who underwent a laparoscopic bariatric surgery over a 6-year period. Hospitals with fellowships were identified from the Fellowship Council. Statistical comparison between patient demographics, payer source, comorbidities, bariatric procedure performed, and perioperative outcomes in hospitals with and without fellowship were performed. On univariate analysis, fellowship accreditation status was found to be associated with increased rates of cardiac complications and shock and decreased rates of pneumonia. Overall complication rate was not significantly different in fellowship versus non-fellowship institutions. However, when controlled for patient demographic, payer source, comorbidity, and operative procedure, there were significantly improved bariatric outcomes among institutions with fellowship programs. The presence of a fellowship program correlates with improved hospital outcomes, mitigating potential concerns about possible negative effects of trainees on hospitals and patients.
Intra-household gender bias in child educational spending in rural Ethiopia: panel evidence

Qualitative and quantitative evidence reveals pervasive gender discrimination in many social and economic aspects in least developing countries, including Ethiopia. Investment in child schooling is an important dimension of this discrimination, which has a lasting consequence on both the child and the country’s economic development as a whole. The main objective of this study is to uncover if there is any intra-household gender-bias in the decision to enrollment and allocation of resources to child education. Using a panel data set from Ethiopian Rural Household Survey (ERHS), spanning from 1994-2004, we applied a panel hurdle models consisting of random effects probit for the initial decision in enrollment and conditional linear autoregressive model for the proportion spent. We found statistically significant gender-bias during the initial decision to enrollment against girls, especially those corresponding to secondary school cycle. Since the bias occurs inside the household, public investments should not only focus on facilitating access to school but also work towards altering the demand side as parents have differential preference towards siblings’ education. Policies that increase returns to girl’s education, increasing intrahousehold productivity, legislations that prohibit early marriage, etc. could mitigate the observed level of intra-household gender-bias against girls aged 15-19 years. Keywords: Gender-bias, Hurdle models, children’s education, rural, Ethiopia.
Quenching of Excitons by Holes in Poly(3-hexylthiophene) Films

The generation of excitons and their interaction with holes in films of neat regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene) and the polymer blended with 1 wt% of the electron-acceptor [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) have been studied using flash-photolysis time-resolved microwave conductivity. The sublinear relationship between the photogenerated hole density and the incident light intensity, in both the neat polymer and the donor−acceptor blend, can be attributed to the quenching of excitons by holes, at a rate characterized by a second-order rate constant (γ2) of 3 × 10−8 cm3/s. This value is larger than that found for other, luminescent conjugated polymers; the difference may be attributed to a greater collision probability, due to the higher mobility of the interacting species, or to an enhancement of the quenching rate once they are in close proximity. The phenomenon has consequences for the ultimate efficiency of organic photovoltaic solar cells that are based on the simple polymer:PCBM bulk ...
Beam steering of mid-infrared light with active plasmonic structures

We demonstrate beaming of coherent mid-infrared radiation through subwavelength slits flanked by periodic grooves at a metal/semiconductor interface. Steering angle is controlled by tuning either the incident-light wavelength or the optical properties of the semiconductor.
How much comprehensible input did Heinrich Schliemann get

Abstract The case of Heinrich Schliemann has been used as an example of someone who acquired a second language primarily by means of conscious learning. An examination of Schliemann's method, however, reveals that he probably obtained a great deal of comprehensible input in English.
Materials for Hydrogen Storage: Past, Present, and Future

With a growing world population, an increasing standard of living in many developing countries, a limited supply of fossil fuels, and its adverse effect on the environment, the need for clean and sustainable energy has never been greater. Hydrogen, the simplest and most abundant element in the universe, has the potential to meet this energy need if numerous hurdles in its efficient and safe production, storage, and use in fuel cell vehicles can be overcome. This Perspective briefly discusses the status of hydrogen storage — past, present, and future.
It's All Relative: The Distinction and Prediction of Political Perceptions Across Levels

The current study was designed to extend previous research by determining whether individuals discriminated political activity at 3 organizational levels (at the highest level in the organization, at the level of one's immediate supervisor, and at one's current level). Further, it was hypothesized that levels of political activity would predict work outcomes differentially. Data gathered from 181 police officers provide strong results. Specifically, findings indicate that respondents discriminated political activity at each level and that differential prediction existed. Implications of these findings, strengths and limitations, and avenues for future research are provided.
Thirteenth and Fourteenth Century European‐Mongol Relations

Growing recent interest in the Mongol Empire and its Eurasian conquests has led to an increase in scholarship on the Mongols. After the Mongol attacks on Eastern Europe – specifically Russia, Poland, Hungary, and the Balkans – in the 1230s–1240s, Europeans were petrified of the terrifying and unfamiliar invaders. However, at times this initial anxiety waned and even turned to hope for a European alliance with the Mongols against Muslim powers like the Mamlūks of Egypt. This essay briefly summarizes recent major works on medieval European and Mongol relations in the areas of diplomacy, mission, art, and material culture. The author encourages scholars on the Mongol Empire to collaborate across disciplines in an attempt to counteract the difficult multilingual nature of sources on the Mongol Empire. Finally, the essay will show how medieval Eurasian and Mongol studies exemplify topics in history like transnationalism, cross-cultural exchanges, and intercontinental trade, which are more relevant today in our globalized world than ever.
Spatiotemporal Dynamics of the Functional Architecture for Gain Fields in Inferior Parietal Lobule of Behaving Monkey

Intrinsic optical imaging has revealed a representation of eye position smoothly mapped across the surface of the inferior parietal lobule in behaving monkeys. We demonstrate here that blood vessels imaged along with the cortex have large signals tuned sometimes, but not always, to match the surrounding tissue. The relationship between the vessels and surrounding tissue in both space and time was explored using independent component analysis (ICA). Working only with single-trial data, ICA discovered a sequence of regions corresponding to the vascular propagation of activated signals from remote loci into the blood vessels. The vascular signals form a novel map of cortical function—the functional angioarchitecture—superimposed upon the cortical functional architecture. Furthermore, the incorporation of temporal aspects in optical data permitted the tuning of the inferior parietal lobule to be tracked in time through the task, demonstrating the expression of unusual tuning properties that might be exploited for higher cognitive functions.
A multi-static ground-penetrating radar with an array of resistively loaded vee dipole antennas for landmine detection

A multi-static ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has been developed to investigate the potential of multi-static inversion algorithms. The GPR consists of a linear array of six resistively-loaded vee dipoles (RVDs), a network analyzer, and a microwave switch matrix all under computer control. The antennas in the array are spaced 12cm apart so the spacing between the transmitter and the receiver pairs in the measurements are from 12cm to 96cm in 12cm increments. The size of the array is suitable for the landmine problem and scaled measurements of the buried structure problem. The RVD is chosen as an array element because it is very "clean" in that it has very little self clutter and a very low radar cross section to lessen the reflections between the ground and the antenna. The shape and the loading profile of the antenna are designed to decrease the reflection at the drive point of the antenna while increasing the forward gain. The antenna and balun are made in a module, which is mechanically reliable without significant performance degradation. The multi-static GPR operation is demonstrated on targets buried in clean sand and targets buried under the ground covered by rocks. The responses of the targets are measured by each transmitter-receiver pair. A synthetic aperture, multi-static GPR imaging algorithm is extended from conventional monostatic back-projection techniques and used to process the data. Initial images obtained from the multi-static data are clearer than those obtained from bistatic data.
Social motivation: A set of propositions.

Social motives are viewed to operate within a context where there is interdependence between own and other's outcomes and strategies. Four principal motives are considered: own, relative, joint and other gain maximization. These correspond respectively to individualism, competition, cooperation and altruism. A geometric model is described for characterizing the preceding motives as well as various combinations of them in terms of joint preferences for own and other outcomes. In addition, several research strategies for assessing these motives are presented. Finally, a number of social contexts are noted that vary in terms of their being more or less likely to elicit particular motives or combinations thereof.
A conceptual framework for developing and evaluating behavior change interventions for injury control

This paper addresses issues and research needs in the domain of behavior modification for injury control. Although much of the discussion focuses on traffic safety, the concepts and principles are applicable to all areas of injury control (e.g. on the job and in the home). Field research that has increased safety belt use is reviewed briefly to illustrate a tripartite classification of injury control factors (i.e. environmental, individual, or behavioral variables), and to introduce a heuristic framework for categorizing and evaluating behavior change strategies. A multiple intervention level hierarchy depicts a progressive segmentation of the target population as more effective (and costly) interventions are implemented; and a taxonomy of 24 behavior change techniques includes a scoring system for predicting short and long term effects of intervention programs. It is presumed that more risk-prone individuals require higher-level interventions, which are those that provide specific response information and extrinsic controls, while also eliciting active participant involvement, social support, and perceptions of autonomy. Although extrinsic controls increase the immediate impact of an intervention program, these techniques may jeopardize response maintenance when the program is withdrawn.
Thermodynamic properties of liquid and semicrystalline linear aliphatic polyamides

Heat capacities have been measured for liquid and semicrystalline nylon 6, 11, 12, 6.6, 6.9, 6.10 and 6.12 from above their respective glass transition temperatures (ca. 320 K) to 600 K. Combining those data with all prior literature, a new set of ATHAS recommended values is derived, including a general equation of heat capacities as a function of amide content. Large amounts of reorganization during heating and the possible existence of a rigid amorphous fraction in semicrystalline nylons are discussed
Mount Lyell Shrew (Sorex lyelli) in the Sierra Nevada, California, with Comments on Alpine Records of Sorex

Abstract On 10 August 2005, a Mount Lyell shrew (Sorex lyelli) was collected at 3,630 m elevation in Humphreys Basin, John Muir Wilderness Area, Fresno County, California. This specimen extends the known range of S. lyelli to the south by 55 km, increases its upper elevational range by ca. 500 m, and is the first alpine record. Prior to our finding, S. lyelli had been collected only in Mariposa, Mono, and Tuolomne counties, at elevations of 2,100–3,156 m, typically in sub-alpine herbaceous vegetation along fast-running streams associated with riparian shrubs, and less frequently in thickets of sub-alpine sagebrush. This record is from an alpine lakeshore well above treeline, with vegetation limited to sedges, grasses, and forbs. This specimen represents the highest elevational record for Sorex in the Sierra Nevada of California.
Range and speed resolution in coherent distributed MIMO radar with Gaussian pulse trains

This paper presents studies on the range and speed resolution in distributed MIMO radar with the use of finite duration Gaussian pulse trains. We consider a network of transmit and receive sensors, where the distance between the randomly placed sensors is comparable to the distance to the target. While the resolution capability of a single transmitter-receiver pair is determined by the carrier frequency and parameters of the pulse train, namely the pulse width, pulse interval and the number of pulses, the orientations of the sensors with respect to the target has a major effect on the ambiguity due to subsidiary peaks. The randomness in the sensor locations randomizes the relative positions of subsidiary peaks of the ambiguity function. With multiple transmitter-receiver pairs, the randomness in the locations of sensors in effect reduces the subsidiary peaks in the ambiguity function of a single transmitter receiver-pair by a factor of MN, where M and N are the number of transmitters and receivers.
Statistics of surface renewal of passive scalars in free-surface turbulence

We perform direct numerical simulation to study the transport of gas and heat as passive scalars in free-surface turbulence. Our analysis focuses on the surface age of surface fluid particles, i.e. the time elapsed since the last surface renewal they experienced. Using Lagrangian tracing of fluid particles combined with heat diffusion analysis, we are able to directly quantify surface age to illustrate scalar characteristics at different stages of interfacial transfer. Results show that at the early stage of surface renewal, vertical advection associated with upwellings greatly enhances surface gas flux; random surface renewal model does not apply at this stage when most of the interfacial gas transfer occurs. After a fluid particle leaves the upwelling region, it may enter a nearby downwelling region immediately, where the gas flux is sharply reduced but the variation in surface temperature is small; alternatively, the fluid particle may travel along the surface for some time before it is absorbed by a downwelling, where the surface temperature has changed significantly due to long duration of diffusion and the gas flux is also reduced. To gain further insight into the relationships between surface velocity and scalar quantities, we perform a statistical analysis of upwellings using clustering and nonlinear regression. With this analysis, we are able to provide qualitative and quantitative descriptions of the skewed probability density functions associated with the surface divergence, temperature and gas flux that support our physics-based investigation of surface renewal and surface age.
Toxin-Coupled MHC Class I Tetramers Can Specifically Ablate Autoreactive CD8+ T Cells and Delay Diabetes in Nonobese Diabetic Mice

There is compelling evidence that self-reactive CD8 + T cells are a major factor in development and progression of type 1 diabetes in animals and humans. Hence, great effort has been expended to define the specificity of autoimmune CD8 + T cells and to alter their responses. Much work has focused on tolerization of T cells using proteins or peptides. A weakness in this approach is that residual autoreactive T cells may be activated and exacerbate disease. In this report, we use a novel approach, toxin-coupled MHC class I tetramers. Used for some time to identify Ag-specific cells, in this study, we use that same property to delete the Ag-specific cells. We show that saporin-coupled tetramers can delete islet-specific glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit-related protein (IGRP)-reactive T cells in vitro and in vivo. Sequence analysis of TCRβ-chains of IGRP + cells reveals the repertoire complexity in the islets is markedly decreased as NOD mice age and significantly altered in toxic tetramer-treated NOD mice. Further tetramer + T cells in the islets are almost completely deleted, and, surprisingly, loss of tetramer + T cells in the islets is long lasting. Finally, we show deletion at 8 wk of age of IGRP + CD8 + T cells, but not dystophia myotonica kinase- or insulin B-reactive cells, significantly delays diabetes in NOD mice.