cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Older Nonmetropolitan Residents' Evaluations of Their Transportation Arrangements

This article uses data from focus groups to examine how older nonmetropolitan residents of upstate New York construct their transportation arrangements during different stages of the life course. The article also analyzes the effectiveness of different modes of transportation in facilitating life-maintenance and higher order needs of older individuals. Almost universally, youngold (age 65 to 74) rural residents drive themselves to most of their activities; a small proportion also use public buses to fill some of their transportation needs. Old-old (age 75 and older) individuals, by necessity, rely on a wider range of transportation options because of driving cessation among some in this group. The focus groups allowed older participants to speak for themselves regarding what they liked and disliked about different transportation options, thus providing findings that policy makers and transportation planners might use for designing transportation systems that meet the needs of older rural and small-town re...
A reduced mechanism for biodiesel surrogates for compression ignition engine applications

Abstract A skeletal mechanism with 115 species and 460 reactions for a tri-component biodiesel surrogate, which consists of methyl decanoate, methyl 9-decenoate and n -heptane, was developed to reduce computational costs for 3-D engine simulations. The detailed mechanism for biodiesel developed by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) was employed as the starting mechanism. The rate constants for the n -heptane and larger alkane subcomponents in the detailed mechanism were first updated. The detailed mechanism was then reduced with direct relation graph (DRG), isomer lumping, and DRG-aided sensitivity analysis (DRGASA), which was improved to achieve a larger extent of reduction. The reduction was performed for pressures from 1 to 100 atm and equivalence ratios from 0.5 to 2 for both extinction and ignition applications. The initial temperatures for ignition were from 700 to 1800 K, covering the compression ignition (CI) engine conditions. Extensive validations were performed against 0-D simulations with the detailed mechanism and experimental data for spatially homogeneous systems, 1-D flames and 3D-turbulent spray combustion. The skeletal mechanism was able to predict various combustion characteristics accurately such as ignition delay, flame lift-off length, and equivalence ratio at flame lift-off location under different ambient conditions. Compared with the detailed mechanism that consists of 3299 species and 10806 reactions, the skeletal mechanism features a reduction by a factor of around 30 in size while still retaining good accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Creating Connections: Library Instruction across Campus.

Abstract The Library Outreach Program Committee at Western Washington University serves as a coordinating body for outreach activities to the non-departmental campus community. Successful projects include collaboration with New Student Services/Family Outreach, Academic User Technology Services, and Residential Life. A database of outreach activities assists in tracking and assessing outreach activities.
Dynamic mechanical properties of concentrated solutions of polymethyl methacrylate in diethyl phthalate

Abstract The real (J′) and imaginary (J″) components of the complex compliance have been measured between 10 and 2400 cycles/sec. for four solutions of a fraction of poly-n-butyl methacrylate with molecular weight 3.05 × 106. The solvent was diethyl phthalate. The temperature range for each polymer concentration was as follows: 30%, −49° to 0°; 40.3%, −49° to 25°; 50%, −15° to 47°; 60%, −44° to 40°C. The method of reduced variables gave superposed curves for J′ and J″ except for a low-temperature anomaly in the 60% solution and a high-temperature anomaly in each solution near the maximum in J″. The temperature dependence of relaxation times followed an equation of the WLF form in each case. The value of αf (thermal expansion of free volume derived from the WLF equation) ranged from 2.2 to 2.8 × 10−4 deg.−1. The glass transition temperatures, Tg, of the 50% and 60% solutions were determined refractometrically as −67° and −46°, respectively; fg (fractional free volume at Tg from the WLF equation) was 0.024 for both. The high-temperature reduction anomaly was resolved by a treatment used earlier for several undiluted methacrylate polymers, formally equivalent to assuming a dissociation of entanglement points with increasing temperature; the apparent heat of dissociation was 2.1 kcal./mole for all four solutions. The relaxation and retardation spectra are similar in shape except for differences in time scale and in magnitude. The monomeric friction coefficient ζ0 at 0°C. ranges from 10−6.28 for the 30% to 10−2.90 for the 60% solution, and is closely represented by the equation ζ0 = 5.8 × 10−10 e24c, where c is grams polymer per cubic centimeter solution. From the relative magnitudes and positions of the retardation spectra near their maxima, the average degree of polymerization between entanglement points is concluded to be proportional to c2.3.
Principal component analysis for interval data

Principal component analysis for classical data is a method used frequently to reduce the effective dimension underlying a data set from p random variables to s ≪ p linear functions of those p random variables and their observed values. With contemporary large data sets, it is often the case that the data are aggregated in some meaningful scientific way such that the resulting data are symbolic data (such as lists, intervals, histograms, and the like); though symbolic data can and do occur naturally and in smaller data sets. Since symbolic data have internal variations along with the familiar (between observations) variation of classical data, direct application of classical methods to symbolic data will ignore much of the information contained in the data. Our focus is to describe and illustrate principal component methodology for interval data. The significance of symbolic data in general and of this article in particular is illustrated by its applicability for our analysis of three key 21st century challengers: networks, security data, and translational medicine. It is relatively easy to visualize the applicability to security data and translational medicine, though less easy to visualize its applicability to networks. Since an interval is typically denoted by (a,b), in a network interval, we let a be a pair of nodes and b be their edge with characteristics c and d, respectively. If this representation of a network interval is valid, then we can more easily visualize its applicability to networks also. WIREs Comput Stat 2012, 4:535–540. doi: 10.1002/wics.1231 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website
A wideband RF link at the 5.8 GHz ISM band for multi-channel neural telemetry for small animals

The ability to record single unit neural activity from the brain of awake and naturally behaving animals will open new frontiers in neuroscience research. We present the prototype design of a battery powered, high bandwidth and miniature neural telemetry system operating in the 5.8 GHz ISM band. It was designed for spike recordings from freely moving marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) while they engaged in natural vocal behavior. The wireless system was tested on chronically implanted adult marmosets with multi-electrode arrays in the frontal cortex. With a baseband bandwidth of 3 MHz this system allows simultaneous transmission of 15 channels of neural data to a receiver 10 meters away. It has additional bandwidth for behavioral data such as multi-channel acoustic information. The transmitter measures 2.5×2×1.3 cm and weighs 10g. Our system provides researchers with design flexibility compared to expensive commercial alternatives and proved comparable to tethered systems during in vivo tests.
Physiological stress in ecology: lessons from biomedical research

Increasingly, levels of the ‘stress hormones’ cortisol and corticosterone are being used by ecologists as indicators of physiological stress in wild vertebrates. The amplitude of hormonal response is assumed to correlate with the overall health of an animal and, by extension, the health of the population. However, much of what is known about the physiology of stress has been elucidated by the biomedical research community. I summarize five physiological mechanisms that regulate hormone release during stress that should be useful to ecologists and conservationists. Incorporating these physiological mechanisms into the design and interpretation of ecological studies will make these increasingly popular studies of stress in ecological settings more rigorous. Vertebrates cope with unpredictable and noxious stimuli (STRESSORS; see Glossary) by mounting a STRESS RESPONSE
In-Plant Applications for Analog Computers

Improvement in the versatility and reliability of an alog computing equipment has allowed a much broader view of potential applications in control problems. This paper summarizes some of the many applications and illustrates some especially new and unique programs that are now possible.
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) polyubiquitin gene (PvUbi1 and PvUbi2) promoters for use in plant transformation

The ubiquitin protein is present in all eukaryotic cells and promoters from ubiquitin genes are good candidates to regulate the constitutive expression of transgenes in plants. Therefore, two switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) ubiquitin genes (PvUbi1 and PvUbi2) were cloned and characterized. Reporter constructs were produced containing the isolated 5' upstream regulatory regions of the coding sequences (i.e. PvUbi1 and PvUbi2 promoters) fused to the uidA coding region (GUS) and tested for transient and stable expression in a variety of plant species and tissues. PvUbi1 consists of 607 bp containing cis-acting regulatory elements, a 5' untranslated region (UTR) containing a 93 bp non-coding exon and a 1291 bp intron, and a 918 bp open reading frame (ORF) that encodes four tandem, head -to-tail ubiquitin monomer repeats followed by a 191 bp 3' UTR. PvUbi2 consists of 692 bp containing cis-acting regulatory elements, a 5' UTR containing a 97 bp non-coding exon and a 1072 bp intron, a 1146 bp ORF that encodes five tandem ubiquitin monomer repeats and a 183 bp 3' UTR. PvUbi1 and PvUbi2 were expressed in all examined switchgrass tissues as measured by qRT-PCR. Using biolistic bombardment, PvUbi1 and PvUbi2 promoters showed strong expression in switchgrass and rice callus, equaling or surpassing the expression levels of the CaMV 35S, 2x35S, ZmUbi1, and OsAct1 promoters. GUS staining following stable transformation in rice demonstrated that the PvUbi1 and PvUbi2 promoters drove expression in all examined tissues. When stably transformed into tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), the PvUbi2+3 and PvUbi2+9 promoter fusion variants showed expression in vascular and reproductive tissues. The PvUbi1 and PvUbi2 promoters drive expression in switchgrass, rice and tobacco and are strong constitutive promoter candidates that will be useful in genetic transformation of monocots and dicots.
Molecules that make axons grow

The study of neurite growth in tissue culture has been a productive way to identify substances that may control the behavior of axons in vivo. Molecules that promote the outgrowth of neurites include nerve growth factor, laminin, fibronectin, and a protease inhibitor derived from glia. Evidence that these molecules may influence axon growth and guidance in vivo is discussed. The effects these molecules have at the cellular level are compared, in an attempt to identify common mechanisms of action. Several less well-characterized molecules that influence the behavior of neurites are also discussed.
Recoilless optical absorption and Doppler sidebands of a single trapped ion

Spectroscopic measurements of the electric-quadrupole-allowed 5${d}^{10}$6s ${\mathrm{}}^{2}$${S}_{1/2}$ to 5${d}^{9}$6${s}^{2}$ ${\mathrm{}}^{2}$${D}_{5/2}$ transition near 282 nm on a single, laser-cooled ${\mathrm{Hg}}^{+}$ ion give a recoil-free absorption line (carrier) and well-resolved motional sidebands. From the intensity ratio of the sidebands to the carrier, the effective temperature of the ${\mathrm{Hg}}^{+}$ ion was determined to be near the theoretical minimum of 1.7 mK. A fractional resolution of better than 3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}11}$ for this ultraviolet transition is achieved.
Paradoxical effects of substitution and deletion mutation of Arg56 on the structure and chaperone function of human αB-crystallin

Human αB-crystallin is a small heat-shock protein that functions as a molecular chaperone. Recent studies indicate that deletion of a peptide (54FLRAPSWF61) from its N-terminus makes it a better chaperone, and this particular sequence is thought to participate in substrate interaction and subunit exchange with αA-crystallin. To determine whether the positive charge on arginine 56 (R56) influences these functions, we prepared human αB-crystallin mutants in which R56 was deleted (ΔR56) or replaced by alanine (R56A). To determine if the effects are specific to R56, we generated two additional mutant proteins in which the two neighboring amino acids were deleted (ΔL55 and ΔA57). Dynamic light scattering studies suggested that none of the mutations affected the oligomeric mass of the protein. Far-ultraviolet circular dichroism (UV CD) spectra revealed greater helicity in the secondary structures of R56A and ΔR56 compared to that of the wild-type (Wt) protein. Near-UV CD spectra showed that the tertiary structu...
Loss of eye movements abolishes light entrainment of circadian mesolimbic catecholamine excitability: A function for REM?

Abstract Light entrainment of the circadian rhythm of mesolimbic dopamine excitability, measured by the amphetamine-induced locomotor response, and the circadian feeding rhythm was abolished following section of the extraocular muscles of the rat. Endogenous (free-running) circadian rhythms were preserved. The results are consistent with electrophysiologic evidence that the rapid eye movements during paradoxical sleep transmit light-modulated electrical potentials to regions of the brain that influence circadian rhytms and dopamine release.
α-Phenylselenenylation of zirconium or aluminum enolates

Abstract Zirconium or aluminum O-enolates undergo selenenylation with PhSeBr to give α-(phenylselenenyl) ketones in good to excellent yield.
Time-of-Day Electricity Consumption Response to Temperature and the Ownership of Air Conditioning Appliances

This article is concerned with the endogeneity of air conditioning appliance ownership in the consumption of electricity by time of day (TOD). Both TOD consumption and air conditioning appliance ownership depend on temperature level and on household responsiveness to temperature variation, as well as on other measured household characteristics. The article presents an appropriate econometric methodology and applies it to obtain estimates and perform tests based on data from Southern California Edison's Residential TOD Pricing Experiment. The authors emphasize the implications for estimated consumption price elasticities.
Prograde Transitions of Corrensite and Chlorite in Low-Grade Pelitic Rocks from the Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec

A prograde sequence of corrensite and chlorite in pelitic rocks of the diagenetic zone, anchizone, and epizone (illite crystallinity indices = 0.17–0.58°Δ2θ) of the Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec, was studied by analytical and transmission electron microscopy (AEM and TEM). The data collectively suggest that diagenesis/metamorphism of chlorite and corrensite follows a sequence of phase transitions, compositional homogenization, and recrystallization, approaching a state of equilibrium for which chlorite is the stable phase. Corrensite occurs as coalescing, wavy packets of layers intergrown with chlorite and illite in the diagenetic and low-grade anchizonal rocks. Intergrowths of discrete chlorite and corrensite crystals, interstratified packets of chlorite and corrensite layers, terminations of smectite-like layers by chlorite layers, and 2–3 repeats of R2- and R3-ordered chlorite-smectite mixed layers occur. These materials are alteration products of detrital biotite or other precursor phases like trioctahedral smectite. The crystal size and proportion of corrensite decrease significantly from the diagenetic zone to the anchizone. Deformed corrensite is crosscut by straight packets of chlorite and corrensite in the diagenetic sample. Some chlorite occurs as discrete, euhedral to subhedral crystals intergrown with or enclosed by other phases in the absence of corrensite. The crystal size of chlorite and definition of crystal boundaries increase whereas density of crystal imperfections and randomness in orientation decrease with increase in grade of diagenesis/metamorphism. Crystals that are kinked or bent, or display gliding along (001) form low-angle boundaries with relatively defect-free crystals, implying deformation during crystal growth. Abundant well-defined low-angle boundaries associated with dislocations are observed in the higher grade rocks, consistent with a stage of readjustment of crystal boundaries during crystal growth. The AEM analyses show that the corrensite has lower Fe/(Mg + Fe) and Al/(Si + Al) than the coexisting chlorite in the diagenetic sample, and that the ranges of composition of chlorite of different grades overlap and become smaller with increasing grade, implying prograde homogenization. The data imply that corrensite is a unique phase that is metastable relative to chlorite: its conversion to chlorite occurred at a grade as low as that of the high-grade diagenetic zone. The textural relations suggest that the metamorphic crystallization and recrystallization were coeval with deformation processes due to tectonism, partially modified by subsequent contact metamorphism. The data, combined with those of previous reports, suggest that the Gaspe Ordovician rocks constitute a part of a regional distribution of trioctahedral phyllosilicate-rich rocks in the northern Appalachians. The regional occurrence of abundant chloritic minerals is thus directly related to a specific tectonic regime with precursor sediments largely derived from an andesitic arc system(s).
Potential confounds in psychiatric genetic research: the case of pellagra

Abstract This paper looks at pellagra — a disease ultimately found to be caused by a vitamin deficiency, and manifested by skin lesions, gastrointestinal problems, and mental disorientation — as a way of demonstrating the potential for environmental confounds in psychiatric genetic research. Family and twin studies are commonly used research methods in psychiatric genetics, and constitute the main source of evidence supporting a genetic predisposition for many psychiatric conditions. Analysis includes a discussion of the early 20th century argument that pellagra carried a hereditary predisposition. Eugenists such as Charles Davenport reached this conclusion on the basis of family pedigree studies, but failed to appreciate the now widely held belief that genetic inferences from family studies are confounded by the common environment shared by families. It is also argued that a pellagra twin study, had it been performed, would have likely found monozygotic twins to be more concordant for pellagra than dizygotic twins. Studies are cited showing that monozygotic twins share a more similar environment and have more similar dietary preferences than dizygotics. In addition, it is argued that even among reared-apart monozygotic twins, high concordance would be expected on the basis of environmental similarity. Finally, pellagra is cited as an example of the potential harm of the “genetic predisposition” concept when environmental factors are unknown for a particular diagnosis.
Interferometric Spectra of Ammonia and Carbon Monoxide in the Far Infrared

Spectra of NH3, NH2D, and CO have been obtained interferometrically, using the large lamellar grating interferometer at The Johns Hopkins University. The CO spectrum is used to illustrate the technique, and to show that some information may be obtained directly from the interferograms, without recourse to a numerical Fourier transformation. The spectrum of NH3 shows pure rotation and inversion transitions in ν2 vibrational fundamental.
Bulk crystallization of solution epoxidized trans-1,4-polyisoprene

Copolymers of trans-1,4-polyisoprene containing 2,2 mol-%, 5,0 mol-% and 9,8 mol-% epoxidized units were crystallized from the melt at temperatures (Tc) of 25 to 36°C. The progress of the crystallization was monitored, and final crystallinities at Tc and after cooling to 25°C were measured using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The morphology of samples, treated with OsO4 at 25°C after crystallization was complete, was observed using scanning electron microscopy. The crystallinity decreases linearly with increasing epoxy content at Tc = 25°C and 30°C and shows marked deviations from linearity at Tc = 36°C. Differences in morphology with epoxy content and Tc were observed. The differences in crystallinity between solution and melt crystallized samples are discussed.
Surface enhanced spectroscopy

Abstract We review the physical processes occuring when solid surfaces are used to modify, in a substantial way, the spectroscopic properties of molecules located nearby. This is achieved by enhancement of the local laser field, increase in molecular emission, and decrease in excited state lifetime. We survey the use of flat surfaces, gratings, attenuated total reflection prisms, surfaces with small and large random roughness, isolated spheres and ellipsoids, and interacting solid surfaces. The spectroscopic techniques surveyed are surface enhanced Raman, fluorescence, resonant Raman, and absorption. The possibility of enhancing photochemical processes is also discussed. We have made an effort to present all these topics from an unifying point of view and to survey the experiments relevant to the concepts presented. The level of presentation is aimed at a nonexpert or an experimentalist without extensive theoretical skills.
Presynaptic inhibition of synaptic transmission in the rat hippocampus by activation of muscarinic receptors: involvement of presynaptic calcium influx

1. Modulation of presynaptic voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs) by muscarinic receptors at the CA3-CA1 synapse of rat hippocampal slices was investigated by using the calcium indicator fura-2. Stimulation-evoked presynaptic calcium transients ([Ca(pre)]t) and field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fe.p.s.ps) were simultaneously recorded. The relationship between presynaptic calcium influx and synaptic transmission was studied. 2. Activation of muscarinic receptors inhibited [Ca(pre)]t, thereby reducing synaptic transmission. Carbachol (CCh, 10 microM) inhibited [Ca(pre)]t by 35% and reduced fe.p.s.p. by 85%. The inhibition was completely antagonized by 1 microM atropine. An approximate 4th power relationship was found between presynaptic calcium influx and postsynaptic responses. 3. Application of the N-type VDCC-blocking peptide toxin omega-conotoxin GVIA (omega-CTx GVIA, 1 microM) inhibited [Ca(pre)]t and fe.p.s.ps by 21% and 49%, respectively, while the P/Q-type VDCC blocker omega-agatoxin IVA (omega)-Aga IVA, 1 microM) reduced [Ca(pre)]t and fe.p.s.ps by 35% and 85%, respectively. 4. Muscarinic receptor activation differentially inhibited distinct presynaptic VDCCs. Omega-CTx GVIA-sensitive calcium channels were inhibited by muscarinic receptors, while omega-Aga IVA-sensitive channels were not. The percentage inhibition of omega-CTx GVIA-sensitive [Ca(pre)]t was about 63%. 5. Muscarinic receptors inhibited presynaptic VDCCs in a way similar to adenosine (Ad) receptors. The percentage inhibition of omega-CTx GVIA-sensitive [Ca(pre)]t by Ad (100 microM) was about 59%. There was no significant inhibition of omega-Aga IVA-sensitive channels by Ad. The inhibitions of [Ca(pre)]t by CCh and Ad were mutually occlusive. 6. These results indicate that inhibition of synaptic transmission by muscarinic receptors is mainly the consequence of a reduction of the [Ca(pre)]t due to inhibition of presynaptic VDCCs.
Monolithic porous gold nanostructures as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy substrates for molecular and biosensing

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has been widely used for high-sensitivity molecular detection and identification. It is advantageous for a SERS substrate to have a large surface-to-volume ratio from the standpoint of high density “hot spots” and optical sampling efficiency. In this paper, we show that monolithic porous gold nanostructures such as nanofilms and nanodisks can be effective SERS substrates with large surface area. The average enhancement factor of the nanodisk and nanofilm substrates have been determined using benzenethiol self-assembled monolayers to be ~100 million and 0.5 million, respectively. Variability on the order of 40% has been observed by large area SERS mapping. A single nanodisk coated with benzenethiol self-assembled monolayer (~10 attmoles) can provide SERS spectrum with a signal-to-noise ratio ~400, resulting in an estimated detection limit in the range of zeptomoles.
TP inversion in quantum gravity

We discuss the Eguchi-Hanson instanton in depth. Initially we describe its relevance to quantum gravity and how it fits into the classification of gravitational instantons. We then construct Green's functions in the instanton background. We apply the ideas discussed to scattering theory and describe some examples. We conclude with some speculations and a discussion of the meaning of more complex members of a family of instantons of which this is the first.
Investor monitoring and differences in mutual fund performance

Abstract A number of mutual funds cater exclusively to institutional investors. Although institutional funds might be a natural place to look for “smart money”, agency costs associated with delegated monitoring may lead to less monitoring and worse overall performance. We split institutional funds based on proxies for the degree of investor oversight, and we find that institutional funds with low initial investment requirements and funds with retail mates perform significantly worse than other institutional funds both before and after adjusting for risk and expenses. Tracking error is especially important in the flow-performance relationship of institutional funds with high minimum investment requirements.
When does organized crime pay? A transaction cost analysis

Abstract This paper develops a transaction cost-based theory of organized crime. Following Schelling (Journal of Public Law 1967;20:71–84), I treat the organized criminal firm as a formal governance structure that specializes in providing illegal goods and services to downstream buyers. Drawing upon Williamsonian transaction cost analysis and the literature on self-enforcing contracts, the paper predicts which illegal goods and services will be supplied in the marketplace by organized criminal firms versus internally by downstream firms. The paper highlights the joint roles of production scale economies, contracting frequency, transaction specificity, and uncertainty to predict the activities of organized crime. These four factors appear capable of explaining many of the important empirical regularities in markets where organized crime is present.
Strategies for increasing energy density of dry cow diets.

Abstract The objective of this trial was to compare the effects of increasing dietary energy density from 1.51 to 1.65 Mcal/kg of dry matter (DM) by replacing forage with concentrate or by further increasing concentrate via the substitution of corn silage and alfalfa silage by a mixture of straw, starch, and soybean meal. Our hypothesis was that the latter diet would be more glucogenic while increasing rumen fill and be potentially desirable for transition cows. Nine far-off dry cows (greater than 3 wk before parturition at the end of the trial) were fed three diets: low energy diet, [LE, 1.51 Mcal/kg of DM, 14.0% crude protein (CP) and 35% nonfiber carbohydrates (NFC)], high energy diet, (HE, 1.65 Mcal/kg of DM, 13.9% CP and 39.5% NFC) and high energy diet, where a portion of alfalfa and corn silage was replaced by straw, soybean meal, and cornstarch (HES, 1.65 Mcal/kg of DM, 13.5% CP and 40.5% NFC). The experiment was a replicated 3 x 3 Latin square design with 21-d periods. Six cows from two squares were used to examine kinetics of DM disappearance from nylon bags suspended in the rumen. Two contrasts of interest were: LE versus HE, HES (effects of energy density) and HE versus HES (method of increasing energy density). Increasing energy density increased the potentially degradable (B) and decreased the undegradable (C) DM fractions of the diets. Because HES had greater B and a faster rate of degradation of fraction B (k), effective rumen degradable DM (ERDDM) was higher in HES compared to HE. Cows fed high energy diets had greater DM intake. No differences in DM intake were observed between HE and HES. Rumen volume or DM pool sizes were not affected by treatment. High energy diets increased total ruminal fluid volatile fatty acid concentration compared with LE. Propionate concentration was higher in cows fed high energy diets compared with cows fed LE. The partial replacement of alfalfa and corn silage by straw, soybean meal, and cornstarch further increased propionate concentration. The greatest increase in serum insulin concentration following feeding was observed in cows fed HE. Cows consuming high energy diets had lower plasma nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) before and after feeding. The HES diet was less effective in decreasing plasma NEFA concentration after feeding compared to HE. In conclusion, increasing diet energy density of far-off dry cows positively affected DMI, ruminal propionate, serum insulin, and plasma NEFA. Increasing energy density with a blend of feeds that represent extremes in rates of carbohydrate fermentation may be a strategy to provide greater amounts of glucogenic precursors. Applicability of this strategy should be examined in transition cows.
Automatic video activity detection using compressed domain motion trajectories for H.264 videos

Most automatic event detection methods for video surveillance detect target events based on features extracted in the pixel domain. However, in practice, surveillance videos are often compressed. It is desirable to perform automatic event detection in the compressed domain directly so that the video does not need to be decoded for analysis purpose. In this paper, we investigate the use of motion trajectories for video activity detection in the compressed domain. We show it is possible to extract reliable motion trajectories directly from compressed H.264 video streams. To overcome the problems caused by unreliable motion vectors, we propose to include the information from the compressed domain prediction residuals to make the tracking more robust. We use a real world application of detecting vacant or occupied parking spaces to demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed approach. We also demonstrate the robustness of our approach to different encoder settings, and lighting conditions.
Development of a high-efficiency hydrogen generator for fuel cells for distributed power generation

Abstract A collaborative effort between Intelligent Energy and Cal Poly Pomona has developed an adsorption enhanced reformer (AER) for hydrogen generation for use in conjunction with fuel cells in small sizes. The AER operates at a lower temperature (about 500 °C) and has a higher hydrogen yield and purity than those in the conventional steam reforming. It employs ceria supported rhodium as the catalyst and potassium-promoted hydrotalcites to remove carbon dioxide from the products. A novel pulsing feed concept is developed for the AER operation to allow a deeper conversion of the feedstock to hydrogen. Continuous production of near fuel-cell grade hydrogen is demonstrated in the AER with four packed beds running alternately. In the best case of methane reforming, the overall conversion to hydrogen is 92% while the carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide concentrations in the production stream are on the ppm level. The ratio of carbon dioxide in the regeneration exhaust to the one in the product stream is on the order of 103.
A decision model for evaluating transit pricing policies

Abstract Decision models that emphasize the relationship between control variables such as transit fares and performance measures like revenue and ridership can be of significant value to the transit manager's decision-making process. Since transit pricing has become a political issue, any transit fare model needs to examine the equity implications of proposed fare policies. To this end, the transit pricing decision model presented in this paper not only provides information on aggregate quantities such as revenue and ridership but more importantly, through use of the micro-simulation technique, facilitates analysis of the impact that various fare policies would have on selected groups of riders. The potential usefulness of the model is illustrated through an application to evaluate the impact of distance-based fare policies. The design of the model and supporting computer programs are, however, flexible enough to test a variety of fare structures and permit the model to be customized to a specific user's needs and data constraints.
Synthesis and Single-Molecule Studies of a Well-Defined Biomimetic Modular Multidomain Polymer Using a Peptidomimetic β-Sheet Module

In the pursuit of advanced biomaterials with combined strength, toughness, and elasticity, a new class of well-defined modular polymers has been synthesized, and their nanomechanical properties have been studied using atomic force microscopy. These polymers are based on a peptidomimetic β-sheet-based double-closed loop (DCL) module, which was designed to overcome the limitation of the modular polymers we reported previously (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2004, 126, 2059). Single-molecule force-extension experiments revealed the sequential unfolding of these modules as the polymer is stretched, resulting in more regular sawtooth-patterned curves similar to those seen in titin and other biopolymers. The single-molecule data agreed well with computer modeling, which suggested that hydrogen bonding and π-stacking are both involved in the formation of small DCL clusters along the polymer chain.
Evaluation of a MISR-Based High-Resolution Aerosol Retrieval Method Using AERONET DRAGON Campaign Data

Satellite-retrieved aerosol optical depth (AOD) can potentially provide an effective way to complement the spatial coverage limitation of a ground particulate air-pollution monitoring network such as the U.S. Environment Protection Agency's regulatory monitoring network. One of the current state-of-the-art AOD retrieval methods is the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Multiangle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) operational algorithm, which has a spatial resolution of 17.6 km $\times$ 17.6 km. Although the MISR's aerosol products lead to exciting research opportunities to study particle composition at a regional scale, its spatial resolution is too coarse for analyzing urban areas, where the air pollution has stronger spatial variations and can severely impact public health and the environment. Accordingly, a novel AOD retrieval algorithm with a resolution of 4.4 km $\times$ 4.4 km has been recently developed, which is based on hierarchical Bayesian modeling and the Monte Carlo Markov chain (MCMC) inference method. In this paper, we carry out detailed quantitative and qualitative evaluations of the new algorithm, which is called the HB-MCMC algorithm, using recent AErosol RObotic NETwork (AERONET) Distributed Regional Aerosol Gridded Observation Networks (DRAGON) campaign data obtained in the summer of 2011. These data, which were not available in a previous study, contain spatially dense ground measurements of the AOD and other aerosol particle characteristics from the Baltimore–Washington, DC region. Our results show that the HB-MCMC algorithm has 16.2% more AOD retrieval coverage and improves the root-mean-square error by 38.3% compared with the MISR operational algorithm. Our detailed analyses with various metrics show that the improvement of our scheme is coming from the novel modeling and inference method. Furthermore, the map overlay of the retrieval results qualitatively confirms the findings of the quantitative analyses.
A Diamagnetic Levitating Generator System

A diamagnetically stabilized levitating rotor demonstrates feasibility of creating small a low friction and low maintenance generator. The planar rotor described in this paper uses a triangular configuration of magnets that generate EMF by passing over coils placed below the rotor. Equations were developed to predict the generated EMF from a series of arc segmented coils. Additionally, this paper provides a method for estimating optimal coil size and position for this planar rotor. Experiments demonstrated that the EMF generated in the coils matches well with the predicted wave forms for each case and the optimization theory is close enough to be useful for design.
Sampling and analytical method development and hand wipe measurements of dermal exposures to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

This article describes the laboratory assessment of a hand and surface wipe sampling method for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The analytical method employed extraction of the wipe samples into dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) flourometric detection of pyrene, a predominant PAH in used gasoline engine oils (UGEO). Recovery of pyrene was evaluated for two different sampling media by first contaminating the hands of a small number of volunteers with UGEO, followed by applying a small amount of corn oil to the palms, and by wiping the skin with a Whatman cellulostic filter paper or a polyester fabric wipe (i.e., Alpha wipes). In summary, using either Whatman or Alpha wipes, the mean recovery of pyrene from the UGEO that was applied to the hands and contained within three consecutive wipes was 69% and 54%, respectively. However, the relative recovery of the first to second wipe was on average 47% and 75% for the two media, respectively. These results indica...
The Relationship of Teachers' Instructional Decisions and Beliefs about Alternate Assessments to Student Achievement

In the decade since alternate assessments based on alternate achievement standards (AA-AAS) were first required, special education teachers have had to develop content knowledge and pedagogical skills to teach academics to students with significant cognitive disabilities. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact that teachers' instructional decisions and beliefs about AA-AAS have on the academic achievement of students with significant cognitive disabilities. A survey of nearly 400 teachers across three states provided evidence of teachers' beliefs, as well as their instructional planning processes for students. Students' learning characteristics were also identified. Survey responses were analyzed in conjunction with students' 2010–2011 scores on their statewide AA-AAS. The results indicated that students with presymbolic communication systems had a lower likelihood of achieving proficiency in English language arts/reading and math than students with abstract symbolic communication. Students wi...
A 3.2GS/s 4.55b ENOB two-step subranging ADC in 45nm SOI CMOS

A 3.2GS/s two-step subranging ADC is implemented in a 45nm SOI-CMOS technology. The measured ENOB is 4.55b at 1.6GHz. The IIP3 is −1.1dBm. The power consumption is 22mW from a 1.05V voltage supply for a FOM of 290fJ/ conversion-step. The chip occupies an active area of 0.07mm2.
Quabain-sensitive Na+-K+ ATPase pumps in cultured human retinal pigment epithelium

The expression of Na+-K+ ATPase pumps was studied in cultured human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Pump site number was measured by quantitation of the specific binding of [3H]ouabain to cultures of varying density. Specific binding of [3H]ouabain was time- and concentration-dependent, and was inhibited by potassium and by excess unlabeled ouabain. Estimates of pump site number based upon specific [3H]ouabain binding indicated that the number of pumps per RPE cell was maximal in sparse cultures and declined six-fold as cultures became confluent. Pump activity, determined by measurement of specific 86Rb (rubidium) uptake, was also greater in sparse than in dense cultures. Quantitation of [3H]thymidine incorporation as a measure of cell proliferation demonstrated that proliferation in RPE cultures decreased logarithmically as culture density increased. Increased pump site number in cultured RPE, therefore, correlated with increased cell proliferation and decreased culture density. We conclude that human RPE express ouabain-sensitive Na+-K+ ATPase in vitro and maximal expression is observed in sparse, proliferating cultures.
Fixed point sets of maps homotopic to a given map

Let be a self-map of a compact, connected polyhedron and a closed subset. We examine necessary and sufficient conditions for realizing as the fixed point set of a map homotopic to . For the case where is a subpolyhedron, two necessary conditions were presented by Schirmer in 1990 and were proven sufficient under appropriate additional hypotheses. We will show that the same conditions remain sufficient when is only assumed to be a locally contractible subset of . The relative form of the realization problem has also been solved for a subpolyhedron of . We also extend these results to the case where is a locally contractible subset.
Neonatal outcome after exposure to indomethacin in utero: a retrospective case cohort study

Abstract Objective This study was undertaken to determine the clinical outcome for neonates who were exposed to indomethacin during gestation. Study design We identified 124 infants with in utero exposure to indomethacin and matched them to 124 infants whose mothers did not receive indomethacin. The two groups were matched for gestational age at birth, sex, and exposure to antenatal betamethasone. Sixty-two of the indomethacin-exposed infants were born within 48 hours of last exposure. These infants were also compared with their matched controls. Results There were no significant differences between the indomethacin-exposed infants and control infants in birth weight, Apgar scores, frequency of cesarean section deliveries, and multiple gestation. The incidence of respiratory distress syndrome, need for surfactant treatment, patent ductus arteriosus, necrotizing enterocolitis, and intraventricular hemorrhage was similar between the indomethacin-exposed group and the control group. Indomethacin-exposed infants who were born within 48 hours of last exposure had similar incidence of respiratory distress syndrome but greater need for surfactant treatment ( P =.02) compared with controls. All other complication rates were similar. Conclusion Indomethacin exposure in our study was not associated with increased neonatal complications for infants delivered within or beyond 48 hours of last exposure.
Titrimetric determination of hydrazines with sulfatoceric acid

Abstract Titrimetric methods for the determination of hydrazine and some simple alkyl and aryl derivatives are described. Iodine monochloride serves as pre-oxidant and indicator, and sulfatoceric acid as the titrant. Mercury(II) is added to ensure complete oxidation of some compounds.
Mapping the braiding properties of the Moore-Read state

In this paper we explore the braiding properties of the Moore-Read fractional Hall sequence, which amounts to computing the adiabatic evolution of the Hall liquid when the anyons are moved along various trajectories. In this work, the anyons are pinned to precise spatial configurations by using specific external potentials. Such external potentials break the translational symmetry and it appears that one will be forced to simulate the braidings on the entire many-body Hilbert space, an absolutely prohibitive scenario. We demonstrate how to overcome this difficulty and obtain the exact braidings for fairly large Hall systems. For this, we show that the incompressible state of a general $(k,m)$ fractional Hall sequence can be viewed as the unique zero mode of a specific Hamiltonian ${H}^{(k,m)}$, whose form is explicitly derived by using $k$-particle creation operators. The compressible Hall states corresponding to $n\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}k$ anyons fixed at ${w}_{1},\dots{},{w}_{nk}$ are shown to be the zero modes of a pinning Hamiltonian ${H}_{{w}_{1},\dots{},{w}_{nk}}^{(k,m)}$, which is also explicitly derived. The zero modes of ${H}_{{w}_{1},\dots{},{w}_{nk}}^{(k,m)}$ are shown to be contained in the space of the zero modes of ${H}^{(k,m)}$. Therefore, the computation of the braidings can be done entirely within this space, which we map out for a number of Hall systems. Using this efficient computational method, we study various properties of the Moore-Read states. In particular, we present direct confirmation of their topological and non-Abelian properties that were previously predicted using the underlying conformal field theory structure of the Moore-Read state.
Radiation degradation susceptibility of vinyl polymers: Nitriles and anhydrides

The effect of ..gamma.. irradiation on a series of vinyl polymers, which included polymethacrylonitrile, poly(..cap alpha..-chloroacrylonitrile), poly(dimethyl itaconate), poly(acrylic anhydride), and poly(methacrylic anhydride), was studied as part of a program to develop improved positive lithographic resists. Radiation-induced degradation was observed for polymethacrylonitrile, poly(..cap alpha..-chloroacrylonitrile), and poly(methacrylic anhydride). Molecular weight degradation as a function of dose was monitored by membrane osmometry or GPC techniques. For ..gamma..-irradiated poly(dimethyl itaconate) and poly(acrylic anhydride) crosslinking was found to predominate over chain scission. (G(s) - G(x)) values, calculated from molecular weight inverse versus dose curves, indicate that both nitrile polymers degraded more efficiently than a poly(methyl methacrylate) reference standard on the basis of anti M/sub n/ changes. The radiation behavior of the first three polymers confirms earlier findings than vinyl polymers with quaternary carbons predominantly degrade when subjected to ionizing radiation. 4 figures, 4 tables.
Actigraphy for assessment of sleep in traumatic brain injury: case series, review of the literature and proposed criteria for use.

Primary objective: To demonstrate that actigraphy is an appropriate means of measuring sleep in patients with TBI and to define parameters for its use in this population.Research design: Case series and review of the literature.Methods and procedures: Subjects participating in one of two externally funded studies addressing the role of acupuncture in treating insomnia in TBI underwent actigraphy for the purpose of quantifying sleep time. Cases selected for presentation illustrate challenges in use of this modality in this population.Main outcomes and results: Caution should be exercised in interpreting actigraphy data in patients with TBI and (1) motor impairment or (2) cognitive and behavioural impairments which include agitation and impulsivity.Conclusions: Guidelines for use of actigraphy in patients with TBI are proposed: (1) Patients should be at Rancho Los Amigos cognitive level of III or above; (2) Patients with paresis, significant spasticity or contractures of one or more limbs should have the de...