Russian President and Presidential candidate Vladimir Putin at a polling station during the presidential election in Moscow, Russia March 18, 2018.
1. A data analysis firm linked to President Donald Trump's campaign used the personal information of 50 million people on Facebook without authorization to target them with personalized political advertisements, The Guardian reported Saturday. The report came just one day after Facebook suspended the firm, Cambridge Analytica, from buying ads or managing pages on the social media platform after discovering rules violations.
2. One of Europe's largest owners of shopping centres has made a £5 billion takeover approach for Hammerson in a move that threatens to derail the British property company's proposed merger with Intu, The Times reports. Klépierre, which owns more than 100 shopping centres across the Continent, contacted Hammerson a fortnight ago about a proposed takeover but was rebuffed almost immediately.
3. Asian share markets slipped into the red on Monday as caution gripped investors in a week in which the Federal Reserve is likely to hike US interest rates and perhaps signal as many as three more for the rest of the year. Japan's Nikkei share index closed down 1.04%, but the Hong Kong Hang Seng index is up 0.23% at the time of writing (6.35 a.m. GMT/2.45 a.m. ET) and China's Shanghai Composite is up 0.19%.
4. Russian President Vladimir Putin won a landslide re-election victory on Sunday, extending his rule over the world's largest country for another six years at a time when his ties with the West are on a hostile trajectory. Putin's thumping victory will extend his total time in office to nearly a quarter of a century, until 2024, by which time he will be 71.
5. YouTube's app specifically for children is meant to filter out adult content and provide a "world of learning and fun," but Business Insider found conspiracy theory videos on YouTube Kids. YouTube removed at least 25 videos from its Kids app after we contacted the company, including videos claiming that the world is flat, that the moon landing was faked, and that the planet is ruled by reptile-human hybrids.
6. Apple is developing its own MicroLED device displays and has made small numbers of the screens for testing, Bloomberg reported on Sunday. The iPhone maker is developing next-generation MicroLED screens at a secret plant in California and has made a huge investment for this, according to the report.
7. The cofounder of a credit checking startup sold to Experian last week for £275 million wants more entrepreneurs to follow his method. The company was created 3 years ago by London venture builder Blenheim Chalcot and cofounded by Dan Cobley, the former UK MD of Google. Cobley told BI the sale is a "validation" of the model.
8. Sources inside Apple's Asian manufacturing supply chain paint a gloomy picture of iPhone X sales. A period of flat or declining sales is likely to continue for much of the rest of the year, they told Longbow Research analysts Shawn Harrison and Gausia Chowdhury.
9. Alibaba said it will invest an additional $2 billion (£1.4 billion) in Southeast Asian e-commerce firm Lazada Group and replace its chief executive, consolidating its control over the firm as it targets an aggressive expansion in the region. Long-time Alibaba executive Lucy Peng will take over as Lazada's chief executive, replacing founder Max Bittner who will become a senior advisor to Alibaba.
10. Shares of Hyundai Motor slid on Monday after a US regulator said it had opened a probe into why some airbags failed to deploy in Hyundai and Kia vehicles following crashes that reportedly killed four people and left six injured. This is the second investigation by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration into the South Korean duo in less than a year and comes as the automakers grapple with weak sales in the United States.


Hey guys. Can you guys tell me what the best effect pedals for Klezmer are? I've tried a couple but with the harmony, the thirds go in the wrong scale. If u guys can help me out, it would be greatly appreciated!


text:
Russia is adhering to the six points of the original version 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia is adhering to the six points of the original version of a peace deal brokered by France during Russia's recent conflict with Georgia over breakaway South Ossetia, the foreign minister sai...
Georgia on Wednesday withdrew all but two of its diplomats 08/28/2008 | Politics
A fire at a military depot in eastern Ukraine on Wednesday 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia will not return the weapons and military hardware its troops 08/28/2008 | Other
The upcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Dushanbe 08/28/2008 | Other
The recent events in Afghanistan have again called into question 08/28/2008 | Other
South Ossetia has transferred 85 captives to Georgia and received 08/28/2008 | Politics
Two hijackers of a Sudanese plane surrendered on Wednesday afternoon 08/28/2008 | Other
Arctic sea ice has shrunk to its second lowest level since 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia's decision to recognize the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia 08/28/2008 | Other
Oil company Slavneft said on Wednesday that its net profit calculated 08/28/2008 | Business
The death toll caused by a flood triggered by heavy monsoon 08/28/2008 | Other
Marshall Capital Partners (MCP) has completed the first stage 08/28/2008 | Entertainment
The president of China told his Russian counterpart on Wednesday 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia's NATO envoy said on Wednesday the country will stand 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia may decide to accept more international military observers 08/28/2008 | Other
Russian diplomats helped 36 compatriots, mainly children and women, leave 08/28/2008 | Other
The South Ossetian president confirmed on Wednesday his intention to allow 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia counts on Belarus to follow its lead and recognize South 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia's Nikolai Valuev said on Wednesday he is ready 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia's Design Bureau for Transport Machinery has completed the construction 08/28/2008 | Other
Some critics have pointed to the conflict in Georgia as another 08/28/2008 | Politics
A second United States naval vessel carrying humanitarian aid docked 08/28/2008 | Other
The U.S. luxury hotel chain Hilton has opened its first hotel 08/28/2008 | Politics
Russian striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, who recently confirmed 08/28/2008 | Other
The agreement concluded between the United States and Poland on August 08/28/2008 | Other
Georgia may sever all diplomatic relations with Russia, Reintegration Minister Timur 08/28/2008 | Politics
A senior Russian military analyst said on Wednesday 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia will not reinforce its naval group in the Black 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia is disappointed and concerned over North Korea's decision 08/28/2008 | Other
Forbes magazine has rated German Chancellor Angela Merkel world's most powerful 08/28/2008 | Other
Spartak Moscow were beaten 4-1 by old rivals Dynamo 08/28/2008 | Other
The International Space Station's orbit has been adjusted to avoid 08/28/2008 | Other
EU countries are considering imposing sanctions on Russia over the Georgia 08/28/2008 | Politics
Maintaining foreign forces in Afghanistan and Iraq fails to ensure security 08/28/2008 | Politics
Serbia's prime minister has said the recent events 08/28/2008 | Politics
China and the other members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) 08/28/2008 | Other
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas arrived in Lebanon on Thursday 08/28/2008 | Politics
A Georgian unmanned reconnaissance plane was shot down early on Thursday 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia's Azov amphibious warfare ship has returned 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia's Mir-1 and Mir-2 minisubs resumed their research into the world's 08/28/2008 | Other
A man was arrested on suspicion of attempting 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia's president said on Thursday he expects China and other members 08/28/2008 | Other
Seven of the world's leading industrialized nations have condemned Russia's ... 08/28/2008 | Other
Russia's gold and foreign currency reserves grew $0.4 billion to $581.5 08/28/2008 | Other
Four people were injured when a bear went on the rampage 08/28/2008 | Other
At least one person was wounded in Wednesday's 08/28/2008 | Other
Jul August 2008 Sep

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Formally protected forest land, voluntary set-asides, consideration patches and unproductive forest land
Formally protected forest land, voluntary set-asides, consideration patches and unproductive forest land, areas and share for total Sweden
Areas in hectares, without overlapping areas
Share of Sweden's total forest land
Productive forest land
Total forest land
Formally protected forest land 1 313 200 2 350 400 5.7% 8.7%
Voluntary set-asides 1 323 100 1 323 100 5.6% 4.7%
Consideration patches 480 700 480 700 2.0% 1.7%
Unproductive forest land 0 3 124 300 0.0% 11.2%
Definitions and explanations
Source: Statistics Sweden, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, the Swedish Forest Agency, and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences National Forest Inventory
Statistics on formally protected forest land are calculated based on the Swedish register on areas protected by the Environmental Code (NVR) and Swedish data on land cover mapping (NMD 1.1). The new version, NMD 1.1, has been supplemented with new data, which led to a decrease in areas compared with last year's statistics.
The area of consideration patches are preliminary estimates based on the most recent definitive five-year average value in 2017/2018.
Unproductive forest land refers to the Swedish National forest Inventory's five-year average value for the period 2016 to 2020, in which 2018 is the middle year. Areas on productive forest land cannot occur.
Overlap between formal protection and unproductive forest land is estimated and excluded based on a hierarchy, starting with formally protected forest land.
The statistics do not show overlap between voluntary set-asides and other types. Overlap may exist, but has not been studied thoroughly enough to be presented.
The total area of forest land has been retrieved from the Swedish National Forest Inventory. It is used for calculating the proportion of voluntary set-asides, consideration patches, and unproductive forest land. The proportion of formal protection is calculated using total areas according to Swedish data on land cover mapping (NMD 1.1).
The percentages in the figure should not be added together due to methodological and legal differences between the parts.
More about the results
Statistics Service
9:00–12:00, 13:00–16:30
Do you have questions about our statistics?
Karin Hedeklint
karin.hedeklint@scb.se
Solna strandväg 86
mark.vatten.gis@scb.se


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Taxpayer-funded incentives for economic development are most cost-effective when they're temporary, focused on high-wage employers and mandate specific criteria such as customized job training, according to a new report that dings Texas and other states for a scattershot approach to business recruitment.
"There's not enough targeting going on," said Timothy Bartik, senior economist with the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research in Kalamazoo, Mich., who conducted the study released on Tuesday. "Incentives don't seem to show a very large effect" in terms of spurring job or wage growth as a result.
The study, as well as an incentives database that is free to access, is available on the organization's website at upjohn.org. The Upjohn Institute is a private, nonprofit research organization that bills itself as nonpartisan.
Texas is in the midst of a debate over one of the state government's central tools to lure in new businesses, the Texas Enterprise Fund. Gov. Greg Abbott is seeking $108 million over the next two years for the incentives fund, an uptick from $90 million in the previous two-year budget cycle and well above House and Senate proposals for $43 million this time.
Meanwhile, the city of Austin is considering revamping its use of business incentives in an attempt to boost good jobs in lower-income areas of the city, among other goals. The Austin City Council approved a resolution last week calling for the city manager to develop recommendations to accomplish the plan.
Bartik's study analyzed taxpayer-funded business incentives — including state and local property tax abatements and investment tax credits — handed out from 1990 to 2015 in 33 states comprising over 90 percent of U.S. economic output.
The study extrapolated the value of such incentives nationwide to $45.2 billion annually, a figure that includes incentives newly issued in 2015 as well as the value of incentives awarded during the time period of the study that had yet to expire.
Texas ranked slightly below average in its reliance on incentives, relative to the size of its economy, with about $3.1 billion in cumulative annual value. For comparison, Louisiana's incentives were valued at $1.45 billion and New Mexico's incentives were valued at $511 million, but both of those states have much smaller economies than Texas so their relative use of incentives was significantly higher in Bartik's study.
He said such patterns are indicative of the limits of incentives as they're currently deployed by most state and local governments, as well as evidence that they aren't "a miracle elixir" for economic development.
Texas has been a top state for job creation since the recession, although it recently has been hurt by the downturn in the oil-and-gas sector. Still, the state's unemployment rate averaged 4.6 percent in 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, compared to a national average of 4.9 percent last year and 6.1 percent in Louisiana.
"Louisiana should be doing much better than Texas, if (incentives) was all that mattered," Bartik said.
State and local governments — meaning taxpayers overall — would get more bang for the buck from the incentives they offer if they tied them to programs that increase worker skills and local wages, such as tax credits for job training or research and development, Bartik said. He also advocated aiming incentives at industries that meet specific criteria, such as high wages, and structuring them to expire relatively quickly.
Corporate decision-makers "look mostly at what happens in the first few years" of a deal, he said. In addition, "it's bad to give away the next governor's, or the next mayor's, tax base" through long-term incentive deals.
Texas, with a relatively strong economy, would do well to be more choosy when it comes to the types of businesses it attempts to lure to the state with taxpayer dollars, Bartik said.
"The issue that people in Texas should be debating is, given that the overall growth of the economy is not that bad, do you want to focus in more on increasing the quality of the jobs and then training workers to access them," or simply on numbers of jobs created, he said.
Access to incentives through the Texas Enterprise Fund isn't restricted to certain industries or businesses, although there are a number of criteria that applicants have to meet, including a mandate that new jobs created under the deals must pay "above the average wage of the county where the project would be located." Bartik called that a low bar.
Gov. Abbott's office did not make a spokesperson available for comment.
Created in 2003, the Texas Enterprise Fund is the largest tax-incentive program of its type in the nation and is meant to lure new businesses to the state.
Through Jan. 31, the Texas Enterprise Fund has dispersed $464.1 million in incentives, according to the governor's office. The state estimates the economic impact of the projects that received that funding at $13.7 billion. A number of projects in Central Texas have been awarded funding from the Texas Enterprise Fund, including Apple Inc.'s new Austin campus, which is set to receive $21 million from the fund over a decade.
Bartik's study did not specifically examine the economic impact of individual state incentive funds or programs. On the whole, however, his study concluded that there does not appear to be a major impact "of incentives on state business output" nationwide. Still, he called the results preliminary and said the database is being made free to the public partly so that other researches can continue to study the issue.
Chris Wallace, president of the Texas Association of Business and an advocate for increased funding for the Texas Enterprise Fund, said high-quality, high-wage jobs definitely are a goal but noted that Texas workers have a wide range of job skills and the state must try to look out for all of them. He had not seen Bartik's study.
"We can be selective and we want to spend our dollars wisely," Wallace said. But "we have to have a wide variety of jobs" that Texas workers with varying skills can access.
He also said only targeting specific industries could put Texas at a competitive disadvantage when it comes to economic development, as well as being a political non-starter in a state with diverse business interests.
Bartik acknowledged that restricting incentives to certain industries could be politically dicey. But as things stand, he said state and local business incentives appear to be something of a zero-sum game for the nation overall, meaning they're mainly causing existing jobs to move across political boundaries instead of spurring new ones or lifting U.S. productivity.


text:
Tel Aviv University (TAU)
Tel Aviv University (TAU) Israel
The table to the right includes counts of all research outputs for Tel Aviv University (TAU) published between 1 October 2020 - 30 September 2021 which are tracked by the Nature Index.
Article Count and Share for Tel Aviv University (TAU)
Chemistry 43 16.42
Earth & Environmental Sciences 21 5.27
75.80 90.77 87.28 108.21 90.86
Compare Tel Aviv University (TAU) with other institutions
Top 10 domestic collaborators with Tel Aviv University (TAU) by Share (43 total)
Tel Aviv University (TAU), Israel
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Weizmann Institute of Science (WIS) (28.44)
Tel Aviv University (TAU)11.20
Weizmann Institute of Science (WIS)17.24
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Technion-Israel Institute of Technology (IIT) (13.57)
Tel Aviv University (TAU)5.89
Technion-Israel Institute of Technology (IIT)7.67
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI) (13.35)
Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI)6.16
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Bar-Ilan University (BIU) (8.52)
Bar-Ilan University (BIU)5.29
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Chaim Sheba Medical Center at Tel HaShomer (8.17)
Chaim Sheba Medical Center at Tel HaShomer2.73
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) (6.37)
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU)2.92
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR) (4.60)
Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR)2.44
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and University of Haifa (HU) (3.08)
University of Haifa (HU)1.54
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Clalit Health Care Services (2.49)
Clalit Health Care Services1.51
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Open University of Israel (OPENU) (2.04)
Open University of Israel (OPENU)0.72
Top 10 international collaborators with Tel Aviv University (TAU) by Share (1150 total)
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Harvard University (8.00)
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Stanford University (6.95)
Stanford University4.19
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) (5.83)
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) (5.47)
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) (5.38)
University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)4.01
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Max Planck Society (5.16)
Max Planck Society3.58
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN) (4.93)
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) (4.76)
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres (4.45)
Tel Aviv University (TAU) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) (4.18)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)2.16
Rabin Medical Center (RMC), TAU
Shamir Medical Center
Shmuel Harofe Hospital
Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center
COMPASS Collaboration
Hall A Collaboration
Israel Cosmic Ray and Space Weather Center and Emilio Segre' Israel-Italy Observatory
POLARBEAR Collaboration
The ATLAS Collaboration
The BaBar Collaboration
The ZEUS Collaboration
XIN Center
Underachieving solar cells get an organic upgrade
Peking University (PKU)
How salmonella gets its groove
Kanazawa University (KU)
Warmer oceans change composition of food webs
The University of Adelaide (Adelaide Uni)


text:
Upper lumbar disc herniation.
C. P. Wei, W. C. Cheng, C. N. Chang, S. T. Lee, T. N. Lui, A. D. Wang
Herniations of the upper lumbar disc have often been overlooked due to a relatively low incidence we had 457 lumbar disc surgeries from January 1978 to June 1987. Twenty-two of them were of the upper three lumbar discs. We analyzed these patients according to their clinical syndromes, radiological findings and surgical results. The characteristic features of anterior thigh pain from upper lumbar disc herniation were different from the more commonly seen fourth and fifth lumbar disc herniation which resulted in sciatica. The incidence of cauda equina syndrome was relatively high in our series (36%). All the 22 cases had correlated X-ray findings. Satisfactory operative results for upper lumbar disc herniation were achieved in 20 of 22 (90%).
Changgeng yi xue za zhi / Changgeng ji nian yi yuan = Chang Gung medical journal / Chang Gung Memorial Hospital
Fingerprint Dive into the research topics of 'Upper lumbar disc herniation.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.
Cauda Equina Syndrome Medicine & Life Sciences
Sciatica Medicine & Life Sciences
Thigh Medicine & Life Sciences
X-Rays Medicine & Life Sciences
Wei, C. P., Cheng, W. C., Chang, C. N., Lee, S. T., Lui, T. N., & Wang, A. D. (1989). Upper lumbar disc herniation. In Changgeng yi xue za zhi / Changgeng ji nian yi yuan = Chang Gung medical journal / Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (4 ed., Vol. 12, pp. 193-199)
Upper lumbar disc herniation. / Wei, C. P.; Cheng, W. C.; Chang, C. N.; Lee, S. T.; Lui, T. N.; Wang, A. D.
Changgeng yi xue za zhi / Changgeng ji nian yi yuan = Chang Gung medical journal / Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Vol. 12 4. ed. 1989. p. 193-199.
Wei, CP, Cheng, WC, Chang, CN, Lee, ST, Lui, TN & Wang, AD 1989, Upper lumbar disc herniation. in Changgeng yi xue za zhi / Changgeng ji nian yi yuan = Chang Gung medical journal / Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. 4 edn, vol. 12, pp. 193-199.
Wei CP, Cheng WC, Chang CN, Lee ST, Lui TN, Wang AD. Upper lumbar disc herniation. In Changgeng yi xue za zhi / Changgeng ji nian yi yuan = Chang Gung medical journal / Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. 4 ed. Vol. 12. 1989. p. 193-199
Wei, C. P. ; Cheng, W. C. ; Chang, C. N. ; Lee, S. T. ; Lui, T. N. ; Wang, A. D. / Upper lumbar disc herniation. Changgeng yi xue za zhi / Changgeng ji nian yi yuan = Chang Gung medical journal / Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Vol. 12 4. ed. 1989. pp. 193-199
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title = "Upper lumbar disc herniation.",
abstract = "Herniations of the upper lumbar disc have often been overlooked due to a relatively low incidence we had 457 lumbar disc surgeries from January 1978 to June 1987. Twenty-two of them were of the upper three lumbar discs. We analyzed these patients according to their clinical syndromes, radiological findings and surgical results. The characteristic features of anterior thigh pain from upper lumbar disc herniation were different from the more commonly seen fourth and fifth lumbar disc herniation which resulted in sciatica. The incidence of cauda equina syndrome was relatively high in our series (36%). All the 22 cases had correlated X-ray findings. Satisfactory operative results for upper lumbar disc herniation were achieved in 20 of 22 (90%).",
author = "Wei, {C. P.} and Cheng, {W. C.} and Chang, {C. N.} and Lee, {S. T.} and Lui, {T. N.} and Wang, {A. D.}",
booktitle = "Changgeng yi xue za zhi / Changgeng ji nian yi yuan = Chang Gung medical journal / Chang Gung Memorial Hospital",
T1 - Upper lumbar disc herniation.
AU - Wei, C. P.
AU - Cheng, W. C.
AU - Chang, C. N.
AU - Lee, S. T.
AU - Lui, T. N.
AU - Wang, A. D.
N2 - Herniations of the upper lumbar disc have often been overlooked due to a relatively low incidence we had 457 lumbar disc surgeries from January 1978 to June 1987. Twenty-two of them were of the upper three lumbar discs. We analyzed these patients according to their clinical syndromes, radiological findings and surgical results. The characteristic features of anterior thigh pain from upper lumbar disc herniation were different from the more commonly seen fourth and fifth lumbar disc herniation which resulted in sciatica. The incidence of cauda equina syndrome was relatively high in our series (36%). All the 22 cases had correlated X-ray findings. Satisfactory operative results for upper lumbar disc herniation were achieved in 20 of 22 (90%).
AB - Herniations of the upper lumbar disc have often been overlooked due to a relatively low incidence we had 457 lumbar disc surgeries from January 1978 to June 1987. Twenty-two of them were of the upper three lumbar discs. We analyzed these patients according to their clinical syndromes, radiological findings and surgical results. The characteristic features of anterior thigh pain from upper lumbar disc herniation were different from the more commonly seen fourth and fifth lumbar disc herniation which resulted in sciatica. The incidence of cauda equina syndrome was relatively high in our series (36%). All the 22 cases had correlated X-ray findings. Satisfactory operative results for upper lumbar disc herniation were achieved in 20 of 22 (90%).
BT - Changgeng yi xue za zhi / Changgeng ji nian yi yuan = Chang Gung medical journal / Chang Gung Memorial Hospital


text:
Lawrence B. Rees
μ CF thoughts from Birmingham and the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory
BYU Authors: S. E. Jones, P. Li, L. M. Rees, E. V. Sheeley, J. K. Shurtleff, and S. F. Taylor, published in AIP Conf. Proc.
Predicted methods of changing the muon catalized fusion cycling rate
BYU Authors: E. V. Sheely, S. E. Jones, L. M. Rees, J. K. Shurtleff, S. F. Taylor, and J. M. Thorne, published in AIP Conf. Proc.
Spin transfer measurements in the v-51(p-],p-]')v-15-star reaction in the m1 region
BYU Authors: L. B. Rees, published in Phys. Lett. B
Cross sections, analyzing powers, and spin-flip cross sections have been measured at small angles for the51V( ) 51V∗ reaction at 319 MeV. In disagreement with electron scattering results but in confirmation of proton scattering data, a clear M1 resonance is observed. Its strength is comparable to that seen in 48Ca and 54Fe. Significant spin excitation strength is observed also above the resonance.
A study of the reaction (π+, π+ p) in 12C and 6Li
BYU Authors: L. B. Rees, published in Nucl. Phys. A
We have measured the angular and momentum distributions of the scattered pions from the reaction 12C(π+, π+p)11B and 6Li(π+, π+ p)5He in a coincidence experiment. We compare our results with the plane and distorted wave impulse approximations.
Continuum polarization transfer in 500 mev proton-scattering and pionic collectivity in nuclei
BYU Authors: L. B. Rees, published in Phys. Rev. C
A complete set of polarization transfer observables was measured for inclusive 500 MeV proton scattering from H2, Ca(nat.), and Pb(nat.) at thetalab=18.5° (q=1.75 fm-1). The excitation energy ranged over the entire quasielastic peak from 20 to 100 MeV. Longitudinal and transverse spin-flip probabilities were extracted from the data. These have simple model-dependent connections to the spin-longitudinal and transverse response functions for the heavy targets. Detailed analysis of the data reveals no evidence for collective enhancement in the spin-longitudinal response function. The relation of this analysis to the interpretation of the European Muon Collaboration effect in terms of excess pions is discussed in detail.
H2, 3,4He(p→,p') and 3,4He(p→,d') continuum yields for 100 and 150 MeV protons
BYU Authors: L. Rees, published in Phys. Rev. C
The continuum cross sections and analyzing powers from the H2, 3,4He(p→,p') and 3,4He(p→,d') reactions were measured for 98.7 and 149.3 MeV polarized protons in the angular range 17.5° to 60°. The H2 and He3 data show strong quasifree contributions with more ambiguous results for He4. These data are compared with distorted-wave impulse approximation calculations based on quasifree nucleon and deuteron knockout. Overall, the agreement between theory and experiment is moderately good. However, some significant discrepancies are observed and corrections to the simple model are discussed.
Inclusive scattering of 500-mev protons and pionic enhancement of the nuclear sea-quark distribution
BYU Authors: L. B. Rees, published in Phys. Rev. Lett.
We have measured a complete set of polarization-transfer observables in the inclusive scattering of 500-MeV protons from H2 and Pb at q=1.75 fm−1. Axial longitudinal and transverse response functions derived from these data show no differences between Pb and H2. This implies no enhancement of the nuclear pion field in heavy nuclei and consequently that models of the low-x A dependence of certain nuclear structure functions requiring such an enhancement are unlikely to be correct.
Isospin effects in pi-+/- elastic-scattering from c-12,c-13, and c-14 at 65 and 80 mev
Elastic scattering cross sections for π± scattering from C12, C13, and C14 are presented for pion energies of 65 and 80 MeV and for scattering angles from 20° to 120°. Energy dependent isospin effects are observed. The cross sections were fit with the Kisslinger potential, and the potential strength parameters show an (N−Z)A dependence similar to that predicted by the impulse approximation at 65 MeV, but not at 80 MeV. Calculations using the Siciliano potential, which contains the explicit isospin dependence of the Lorentz-Lorenz-Ericson effect plus isoscalar, isovector, and isotensor terms, indicate the importance and energy dependence of absorption effects. Finally a "model independent" parametrization of the neutron density suggests a neutron excess at the surface of C13 but not C14.
Distortion effects in (pi,pi-p) quasi-free knockout reactions
Distorted wave impulse approximation calculations for the (π, πp) quasifree knockout reaction on O16 and Ca40 have been carried out for a variety of bombarding energies and angle pairs. In general, the distortion effects arising from the interaction of the pions and protons with the target core are strong and vary with bombarding energy. The results emphasize the need to include these interactions properly in any analysis of experimental data. NUCLEAR REACTIONS DWIA reaction theory of proton knockout from nuclei O16, Ca40(π+, π+p), Tπ=100−300 MeV, calculate σ(θ1, θ2, E1).
Distorted-wave analysis of the reaction c-12(pi+,pi+-p)b-11
BYU Authors: L. Rees, published in Phys. Rev. Lett.
A comparison of distorted-wave impulse-approximation calculations with recent C12(π+, π+p)B11 data shows excellent agreement and demonstrates the applicability of the quasifree knockout reaction model. Both the shape and the magnitude of the energy-sharing distributions are well described by the calculations.
Distorted-wave impulse approximation calculations of (pi-+,2p) reactions in a quasideuteron model
A formalism for distorted wave impulse approximation calculations of the A(π+,2p)B reaction to discrete states in nucleus B is described. Assuming that the π+ capture occurs on a deuteronlike structure in the target nucleus, calculations are presented covering a range of bombarding energies from 25 to 350 MeV and target nuclei from A=16 to 90. In most cases, distortion effects arising from the interaction of the pion and two outgoing protons with the core are large, but primarily affect the magnitude of the cross section. Based on these calculations it is concluded that any more realistic calculation of pion absorption will require the inclusion of the interaction of the incoming and outgoing particles with the core.
A detector for shielded fission sources
BYU Authors: Ashton C. Brown, J. Bart Czirr, John E. Ellsworth, and Lawrence B. Rees, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. A
In recent years, a great deal of attention has been given to the passive detection of fissile material by detecting spontaneously emitted neutrons. Neutron detection schemes generally rely on low-density detection media with high neutron-gamma discrimination capability. However, such detectors generally suffer from low efficiency for high energy (>1.00 MeV) neutrons and usually are constructed with moderating material built into the detector package to compensate for that. But when the source is highly shielded by hydrogenous materials, the moderating material surrounding the detector actually decreases the detector efficiency (Rees and Czirr, 2012). This problem is further compounded if the source is shielded with borated material, significantly reducing the number of emerging neutrons.
We have built, tested, and modeled a simple neutron detector that uses a large block of plastic scintillator fitted with a removable cadmium foil. This detector is sensitive to fission gammas, gammas emitted from neutron capture in shielding, gammas emitted from neutron capture in the plastic scintillator, and gammas produced by neutron capture in the cadmium foil. We demonstrate that by applying suitable data analysis, we can detect a shielded californium source with a very small chance of false positives from typical gamma sources. When boron is added to the shielding, we also use the 477 keV gammas emitted when neutrons capture in boron. This process is enhanced by using an auxiliary NaI gamma detector.
Although the detection method flies in the face of currently promoted detectors, it is a simple technique that could be applied to a variety of detection applications.
Sunshine on my shoulders: Weather, pollution, and emotional distress
BYU Authors: Mark E. Beecher, Dennis Eggett, Davey Erekson, Lawrence B. Rees, Jennie Bingham, Jared Klundt, Russell J. Bailey, Clark Ripplinger, Jessica Kirchhoefer, Derek Griner, Jonathan C. Cox, and R.D. Boardman, published in J. Affect. Disord.
Researchers have examined the relationship between mental health and weather/pollution with mixed results. The current study aimed to examine a range of weather and atmospheric phenomena and their association with time-bound mental health data.
Nineteen different weather/pollution variables were examined in connection with an archive of self-reported mental health data for university students participating in mental health treatment (n=16,452) using the Outcome Questionnaire 45.2 (OQ-45). Statistical approach involved randomly selecting 500 subjects from the sample 1000 different times and testing each variable of interest using mixed models analyses.
Seasonal changes in sun time were found to best account for relationships between weather variables and variability in mental health distress. Increased mental health distress was found during periods of reduced sun time hours. A separate analysis examining subjects' endorsement of a suicidality item, though not statistically significant, demonstrated a similar pattern. Initial results showed a relationship between pollution and changes in mental health distress; however, this was mediated by sun time.
This study examined a relatively homogenous, predominantly European American, and religious sample of college counseling clients from an area that is subject to inversions and is at a high altitude and a latitude where sun time vacillates significantly more than locations closer to the equator.
Seasonal increases in sun time were associated with decreased mental health distress. This suggests the need for institutions and public health entities to plan for intervention and prevention resources and strategies during periods of reduced sun time.
Electron transit time measurements of 5-in photomultiplier tubes
BYU Authors: T. Richards, J. Peatross, M. Ware, and L. Rees, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. A
We investigated the uniformity of electron transit times for two 5-in photomultiplier tubes: the Hamamatsu R1250 and the Adit B133D01S. We focused a highly attenuated short-pulse laser on the tubes while they were mounted on a programmable stage. The stage translated the tubes relative to the incident beam so that measurements could be made with light focused at points along a grid covering the entire photocathodes. A portion of the incident light was split from the incident beam and measured and recorded by a fast photodiode. Electron transit times were measured by computing the time delay between the recorded photodiode signal and photomultiplier signal using software constant-fraction discrimination. The Hamamatsu tube exhibited a uniform timing response that varied by no more than 1.7 ns. The Adit tube was much less uniform, with transit times that varied by as much as 57 ns. The Adit response also exhibited a spatially varying double-peak structure in its response. The technique described in this paper could be usefully employed by photomultiplier tube manufacturers to characterize the performance of their products.
Reliability of monte Carlo simulations in modeling neutron yields from a shielded fission source
BYU Authors: Matthew S. McArthur, Lawrence B. Rees, and J. Bart Czirr, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. A
Using the combination of a neutron-sensitive 6Li glass scintillator detector with a neutron-insensitive 7Li glass scintillator detector, we are able to make an accurate measurement of the capture rate of fission neutrons on 6Li. We used this detector with a 252Cf neutron source to measure the effects of both non-borated polyethylene and 5% borated polyethylene shielding on detection rates over a range of shielding thicknesses. Both of these measurements were compared with MCNP calculations to determine how well the calculations reproduced the measurements. When the source is highly shielded, the number of interactions experienced by each neutron prior to arriving at the detector is large, so it is important to compare Monte Carlo modeling with actual experimental measurements. MCNP reproduces the data fairly well, but it does generally underestimate detector efficiency both with and without polyethylene shielding. For non-borated polyethylene it underestimates the measured value by an average of 8%. This increases to an average of 11% for borated polyethylene.
Optimizing moderation of He-3 neutron detectors for shielded fission sources
BYU Authors: Lawrence B. Rees and J. Bart Czirr, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. A
The response of a He-3 neutron detector is highly dependent on the amount of moderator incorporated into the detector system. If there is too little moderation, neutrons will not react with the He-3. If there is too much moderation, neutrons will not reach the He-3. In applications for portal or border monitors where He-3 detectors are used to interdict illicit importation of plutonium, the fission source is always shielded to some extent. Since the energy distribution of neutrons emitted from the source depends on the amount and type of shielding present, the optimum placement of moderating material around He-3 tubes is a function of shielding. In this paper, we use Monte Carlo techniques to model the response of He-3 tubes placed in polyethylene boxes for moderation. To model the shielded fission neutron source, we use a point Cf-252 source placed in the center of polyethylene spheres of varying radius. Detector efficiency as a function of box geometry and shielding is explored. We find that increasing the amount of moderator behind and to the sides of the detector generally improves the detector response, but that incremental benefits are minimal if the thickness of the polyethylene moderator is greater than about 5-7 cm. The thickness of the moderator in front of the He-3 tubes, however, is very important. For bare sources, about 4-5 cm of moderator is optimum, but as the shielding increases, the optimum thickness of this moderator decreases to 0.5-1 cm. Similar conclusions can be applied to polyethylene boxes employing two He-3 tubes. Two-tube boxes with front moderators of non-uniform thickness may be useful for detecting neutrons over a wide energy range. (c) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Characterization of Cadmium Capture-Gated Detector for Nuclear Nonproliferation Applications
BYU Authors: J. B. Czirr and L. B. Rees, published in 2010 IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium Conference Record (November 2010, Knoxvill, TN), pp. 114-118.
Visualizing Electromagetic Theory
BYU Authors: Lawrence Rees, published in J. Utah Acad. Sci.
Elemental analysis of lichens from the western United States: Distribution of phosphorus and calcium from a large data set
BYU Authors: Nolan F. Mangelson, Dylan C. Argyle, Ryan Kelly, Wesley D. Morin, Seth M. Washburn, Brett M. Clark, Larry L. St. Clair, and L. B. Rees, published in Int. J. PIXE
Lichen samples were collected and observations about lichen communities were recorded at sites in the intermountain western United States. Specifically the states of Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico were included in this study. The minor and trace-element concentrations in many of the lichens collected were determined by proton induced X-ray emission (PIXE). These data are part of a base line assessment of current air pollution conditions in this region. These data also provide an opportunity to study some aspects of lichen physiology. Using the data from 508 foliose and fruticose lichens, frequency distributions for concentrations of phosphorus and calcium are considered. Phosphorus has a closely-spaced, bimodal distribution: one mode for foliose lichens and one mode for fruticose lichens. This suggests that all lichen genera in this study have similar requirements and absorption mechanisms for phosphorus. Calcium has a complex frequency distribution and concentrations that range from 450 mg/kg to 14 % dry weight. Contributions to this complex distribution pattern can be understood if the data are resolved into growth form, genera within each growth form, and in some cases species within a given genus. This complex dependence on calcium is strong evidence that lichens develop specific calcium-related adaptations in order to accommodate various habitat conditions
Use of C-14/C ratios to provide insights into the magnitude of carbon turnover in the crustose saxicolous lichen Caloplaca trachyphylla
BYU Authors: B. M. Clark, N. F. Mangelson, L. L. St Clair, and L. B. Rees, published in Lichenologist
(14)/C ratios in samples from radial transects across individual thalli of Caloplaca trachyphylla collected at two sites were measured and the results used to investigate whether C-14/C data might provide some insight into the magnitude of carbon turnover in this lichen species, The C-14/C data suggest that significant internal recycling/translocation of carbon is unlikely in the sampled thalli, However, converting the C-14/C data for the larger intact thalli sampled at each site to calendar years, using the atmospheric C-14 record, does not yield constant or even monotonically varying growth rates. Since crustose lichen growth rates are constant or decrease with thallus size, and since the C-14/C data from these larger thalli show a relatively small spread in C-14/C data values compared to the Northern Hemisphere atmospheric C-14 record over the past 50 years, the C-14/C data suggest that carbon turnover may be occurring. Carbon turnover was modelled starting with the atmospheric C-14 record. Turnover was incorporated so that for each year in the record a constant percentage of the total carbon was lost annually and replaced by new photosynthetically fixed carbon with a C-14/C ratio equal to that of the contemporary atmosphere. The C-14/C data from the radial samples were then converted to a calendar year using the model record. Constant annual carbon turnover values of 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 50% were modelled. Carbon turnover values between 3 and 6% created C-14 model records that when applied to C-14/C data from the thalli produced constant radial growth rates that were: (1) identical for all lichens at a given site, and (2) independent of lichen size at a given site. The C-14/C data further indicate that annual carbon turnover in this species of lichen is < 10%, independent of the nature of thallus radial growth. The data and modelling suggest that carbon turnover might provide a simple explanation for the C-14/C data from the thalli and might explain the discrepancies between the standard atmospheric C-14 record and the C-14/C ratios observed in G. trachyphylla. (C) 2002 The British Lichen Society Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Accurate lifespan estimates cannot be obtained from C-14 profiles in the crustose lichen Rhizocarpon geographicum (L.) DC.
Radial C-14/C profiles across three individuals of the crustose lichen Rhizocarpon geographicum (L.) DC. have been determined using accelerator mass spectrometry. These data were used to assess whether lifespan estimates can be determined in this species using C-14/C isotope ratio measurements. C-14/C profiles are relatively flat with Delta C-14 values (deviations from the modern radiocarbon standard) for the radial samples displaying a small spread ranging from 130 to 200 per mil. The data are consistent with carbon cycling based on growth patterns involving replacement and fusion of areoles within the thallus as well as or instead of cellular or molecular replacement. Consequently, lifespan estimates cannot be obtained from C-14/C measurements of this species and the Delta C-14 profiles provide no insights into whether the relationship between size and age is linear or curvilinear in this species. (C) 2001 The British Lichen Society.
Characterization of mycobiont adaptations in the foliose lichen Xanthoparmelia chlorochroa (Parmeliaceae)
BYU Authors: Brett M. Clark, Larry L. St. Clair, Nolan F. Mangelson, and Lawrence B. Rees, published in Am. J. Bot.
A cross section of the vagrant soil lichen Xanthoparmelia chlorochroa was analyzed using proton microprobe PIXE. Data were used to generate quantitative, two-dimensional element distribution maps for Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, and Sr. Element maps show differential element partitioning between the stratified layers of the thallus. These data document transfer of inorganic nutrients across the thallus to the algal layer. Inorganic particle entrapment was also evident in the element maps. Dense accumulations of calcium oxalate at the junction of the medulla and the algal layer on the order of 10% by dry mass were discovered. Scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analyses were used to characterize the calcium oxalate region. These data provide evidence for possible functional roles of the calcium oxalate layer, including regulation of water and light. Data also provide support for a mutualistic interpretation of the lichen association.
Andrew Pickering Constructing Quarks
BYU Authors: Lawrence Rees, published in APS History Newsletter
Measurement of age and growth rate in the crustose saxicolous lichen Caloplaca trachyphylla using C-14 accelerator mass spectrometry
BYU Authors: B. M. Clark, N. F. Mangelson, L. L. St. Clair, and L. B. Rees, published in Lichenologist
Sections of the crustose saxicolous lichen, Caloplaca trachyphylla, were dared using C-14 accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS). The data show a strong linear dependence of radial position on time (r=0.993), suggesting a constant radial growth rate. This specimen had averaged a marginal growth rare of 1.48 mm/year. Extrapolation of the growth curve yields a thallus age of 20 years. These data demonstrate the feasibility of using AMS technology to precisely date lichen tissues and determine growth races of lichen thalli. (C) 2000 The British Lichen society.
Analysis of lichen thin sections by PIXE and STIM using a proton microprobe
BYU Authors: B. M. Clark, N. F. Mangelson, L. L. St Clair, J. S. Gardner, and L. B. Rees, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. B
In order to better understand the distribution pattern of mineral elements in lichen tissues, thin sections (15 μm) of the foliose, vagrant soil lichen Xanthoparmelia chlorochroa were examined using proton microprobe Particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE). This technique was used to make two-dimensional scans, with 5 μm resolution, across tissue cross sections of the test species. Element maps for Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, and As have been prepared. Several elements are strongly localized in the element maps. PIXE data are complimented with STIM, light micrographs, and SEM images. Preliminary data suggest that nuclear microprobe techniques may be useful in elucidating element absorption and transport mechanisms in lichens.
Analysis of Rocky Mountain lichens using PIXE: Characteristics of iron and titanium
BYU Authors: L. B. Rees, published in AIP Conf. Proc.
Lichens have been shown to be effective biomonitors of air quality. They are currently being used to characterize background element levels and to identify air pollution effects on federally administered lands in the Rocky Mountain region of the western United States. PIXE analysis for twenty elements has been performed on over two hundred lichen specimens collected from various national forests, national monuments, and national parks in the region. This paper reports on patterns of iron and titanium accumulation in lichen tissues. Data show a strong relationship between concentrations of iron and titanium. The Fe/Ti ratios agree well with values reported in similar lichen studies; however, our values for both iron and titanium concentrations are ten times greater than other reports. A distribution function for the log of iron concentrations is distinctly bimodal. The lower concentration mode contains fruticose lichens from bark substrates and the higher concentration mode contains foliose lichens from rock substrates. High iron concentrations in fruticose lichens along the Wasatch Front suggest air pollution impact from a local steel plant.
Regional Source Profiles of Sources of SOx at the Grand Canyon During Project MOHAVE
BYU Authors: Delbert J. Eatough, Jyothi M. Joseph, Fern M. Caka, Benjing Sun, Nolan F. Mangelson, Michele Eatough, Larry B. Rees, and Norman L. Eatough, published in J. Air Waste Ma.
Total fluoride (gas plus fine particle), spherical alumino silicate particles, particulate selenium, arsenic, lead, bromine, and absorption of light by fine particles have been used to characterize chemical profiles for sources of sulfur oxides impacting the Grand Canyon National Park Class I Visibility Region. During the Project MOHAVE (Measurement of Haze and Visual Effects) winter and summer intensive studies in 1992, these various species were determined at seven sampling sites in and around the Grand Canyon. Extensive upper air and surface-based meteorological measurements were examined to determine probable geographical origins of the air mass present during a given sampling period for each sampling site. Samples corresponding to air masses dominated by transport from a single major source region were used to determine a source profile for each region. Source regions which have been characterized by this analysis include the San Joaquin Valley area, the southern California coastal urban area, the Baja, California- Imperial Valley area, the Arizona and Mexico area (including major smelters) south of the Grand Canyon, the area southeast of the Grand Canyon, the Colorado Plateau area, the Wasatch Front in Utah, and the area in Nevada to the west and northwest of the Grand Canyon. Source profiles giving the ratio of each endemic marker to SOx for each identified regional source in these areas have been determined. The source profiles for the various regional sources are all statistically different and distinguishable from those for other geographically adjoining sources.
The Contribution of Sulfate and Nitrate to Atmospheric Fine Particles During Winter Inversion Fogs in Cache Valley, Utah
BYU Authors: Nolan F. Mangelson, Jyothi M. Joseph, Wenxuan Cui, James Machir, Delbert J. Eatough, and Lawrence B. Rees, published in J. Air Waste Ma.
Air pollutants were collected in Logan, Cache County, UT, in February 1993 during two periods of atmospheric inversion accompanied by fog. The following atmospheric species were determined: (1) gaseous SO2, NO2 (semi-quantitatively),HNO3, NH3, and HF; (2) fine particulate SO4 =, NO3 -, NH4 +, F–, H+, C, Si, S, K, Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb, Se, Br, and Sr, and; (3) fine particulate mass, which was calculated. The major components of fine particulate matter were carbonaceous material, ammonium nitrate, and ammonium sulfate, while the soil component was small. Calculated, fine particulate mass averaged 80 μg/m3 and reached concentrations as high as 120 μg/m3. SO2/Sox and NO2/NOy mole ratios generally varied between 0.2 and 0.1 during inversions. These ratios also showed moderate but consistent diurnal patterns. The emission inventory for Cache County indicates sources of SO2 and NOx but not significant amounts of primary sulfate and nitrate. The observations reported here indicate there is significant conversion of SO2 and NOx in the presence of excess oxidants to sulfuric and nitric acid that are neutralized by excess ammonia.
PIXE elemental analysis of South American mummy hair
BYU Authors: N. F. Mangelson and L. B. Rees, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. B
Hair samples were obtained from ten mummies of the archaic and formative cultures of the north coast of Chile. Each sample was divided into two portions. One portion was washed in acetone and then water and the second portion remained unwashed. All samples were then prepared by an acid digestion procedure and analyzed by PIXE. The washed and unwashed samples were compared to determine what elements were present in the material on the hair surface. Concentrations of the elements Ca, Ti, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Sr, and Pb are reported. Comparison was made to previously published elemental analyses of mummy hair and modem hair. One sample, which had a reddish hue, was found to contain unusually large quantities of Fe and As. Since the unwashed sample had much higher concentrations of these elements than the washed sample, it is believed that the reddish color originated in a mineral dye applied to the hair.
Elemental analysis of lichens from the intermountain western USA using PIXE
BYU Authors: R. C. Casellas, N. F. Mangelson, L. B. Rees, L. L. St. Clair, G. B. Schaalje, and K. D. Swalberg, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. B
Thirty-six lichen samples that were collected from five wilderness areas and a national monument in the intermountain western United States have been analyzed by PIXE for the determination of 21 elements: P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Br, Rb, Sr, Ba, and Pb. Samples were powdered and spiked with Y as an internal standard. The powder was analyzed directly as a sample of moderate thickness. Elemental concentration means and ranges were generally consistent with concentration ranges from other studies of unimpacted lichens. Some samples, however, had high concentrations of S, Cu, As, and a few other elements. There are interpretations of the data that imply some wilderness areas are being impacted to some degree by industrial-plant atmospheric emissions.
Determination of aluminum-oxide stopping cross-sections for protons and deuterons by backscattering from thin targets
BYU Authors: D. Clark Turner, Nolan F. Mangelson, and Lawrence B. Rees, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. B
Self-supporting foils of aluminum oxide in the thickness range 100 to 300 nm were prepared by anodic oxidation of aluminum foil and subsequent dissolution of the unreacted aluminum. The foil thicknesses were measured by scanning electron microscopy. Using these foils, stopping cross sections of aluminum oxide for protons and deuterons were measured for particles in the energy range 0.90 to 250 MeV. These measured stopping cross sections are compared to other literature results and to the theoretical values as predicted by Bragg's Rule.
Post Use Review. Physics for Scientists and Engineers, Extended Version
BYU Authors: Steven E. Jones, Lawrence B. Rees, and William E. Dibble, published in Am. J. Phys.
BYU Authors: D. J. Eatough, N. F. Mangelson, M. Eatough, and L. B. Rees, published in International Specialty Conference, Aerosols and Atmospheric Optics: Radiative Balance and Visual Air Quality, (Pittsburg, PA), Vol. B, 1089-1097 (1995).
The Formation of Sulfate and Nitrate during Winter Inversion Fogs in Cache Valley, Utah
BYU Authors: N. F. Mangelson, L. B. Rees, and D. J. Eatough, published in International Specialty Conference, Aerosols and Atmospheric Optics: Radiative Balance and Visual Air Quality, (Pittsburg, PA), Vol. B, 1089-1097 (1995).
Microwave digestion and PIXE analysis of samples from open-burning and open detonation of explosives and propellants
BYU Authors: M. A. Asplund, M. W. Hill, N. F. Mangelson, and L. B. Rees, published in 4th Annual West Coast Regional Air and Waste Management Association Conference, (November 1994), 108-116, (1994)
A monte-carlo calculation of secondary-electron bremsstrahlung in pixe
BYU Authors: L. B. Rees, D. J. Whalen, M. W. Hill, and N. F. Mangelson, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. B
One of the primary components of the background in PIXE spectra is secondary electron bremsstrahlung (SEB). However, in order to evaluate the integral usually used to calculate SEB cross sections, certain simplifications must be made, such as assuming an infinite target thickness. In order to more realistically model the physical processes involved in SEB, a Monte Carlo approach is useful. SEB cross sections are calculated by Monte Carlo techniques and the results are compared with the work of Ishii, Morita, and Tarawa [Phys. Rev. A13 (1976) 131; Int, J. PIXE 1 (1990) 1]. To demonstrate the flexibility of the Monte Carlo method, effects due to the target thickness and the proton electron cross section are examined.
Preparation of pixe samples by lithium metaborate fusion
BYU Authors: N. W. Lytle, J. E. Silk, M. W. Hill, N. F. Mangelson, and L. B. Rees, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. B
Materials containing a significant silicate matrix are often considered for element analysis by the PIXE method. In some circumstances such materials may not be conveniently prepared for sample analysis. It has been found that a lithium metaborate fusion-acid dissolution procedure works well for converting siliceous materials into solution from which thin-target PIXE samples may be made. We have demonstrated that this method will allow rapid and accurate element analysis. The lithium metaborate, however, creates a matrix residue leading to the requirement for sample thickness corrections and an increase in detection limits. We have found this to be a useful sample-preparation method.
Is Reported 'Excess Heat' Due to Nuclear Reactions?
BYU Authors: Steven E. Jones and Lawrence B. Rees, published in Third International Conference on Cold Fusion: Frontiers of Cold Fusion, (October 1992, Nagoya, Japan). Frontier Science Series 4, H. Ikegami ed., 245–251 (1993).
A Dilution-Equilibrium Sampling System for the Collection of Stack Emission Samples
BYU Authors: B. Sun, N. F. Mangelson, L. B. Rees, and D. J. Eatough, published in 86th Annual Air & Waste Management Association Meeting, (June 1993, Denver, CO).
A Comparison of Fossilized Dinosaur Bone and the Surrounding Rock Using PIXE Analysis
BYU Authors: D. W. Neilsen, L. B. Rees, N. F. Mangelson, and M. W. Hill, published in Int. J. PIXE
Six samples of fossilized dinosaur bone and surrounding rock were analyzed by PIXE to investigate general relations between the bone and rock. The powdered samples were brought into an acid solution by a lithium metaborate fusion process. The data were analyzed with chemometric methods to successfully differentiate the bone samples from the complementary rock samples. The Sr/Ca ratio is consistently higher in fossilized bone than the surrounding rock. Ba, Y and U, when found in the rock, appear in significantly higher concentrations in the bone. S and Ti, elements commonly found in rock samples, are not found in the bone samples.
Cold fusion: What do we know? What do we think?
BYU Authors: Lawrence B. Rees, published in J. Fusion Energy
Considering the experiments which have been listed as convincing in Fig. 1, two groups have provided evidence for the existence of an unidentified small heat source. The low level of heat that is produced in the Texas A&M and Stanford work, can most plausibly be explained by a chemical explanation. The absence of helium and neutrons is consistent with this explanation, however, the high tritium level observed by Texas A&M is not.
In the dry cell tests two groups present good evidence for an unidentified small neutron source. The best guess for an explanation may be hot fusion cascade. In our opinion, there is really no convincing case yet for nuclear fusion, certainly not of any practical value, but there seems to be a real effect and it has to yet be identified.
There are far more groups with good equipment who found no effect at all. There may be some possible reasons for that, but there is certainly no clear reason for it. We think that the evidence suggests that more work is appropriate. We think that funding should be commensurate with the understanding of this phenomenon and of its possible usefulness.
A monte-carlo approach to x-ray attenuation corrections for proton-induced x-ray-emission from particulate samples
BYU Authors: L. B. Rees, published in Nucl. Instr. Meth. Phys. Res. A
It has long been recognized that PIXE (particle-induced X-ray emission) spectra from thick targets need to be modified with respect to the thin target spectra used for calibration. This is due to the degradation of the energy of the protons entering the sample and the attenuation of the X-rays emerging from the sample. Thick-target corrections typically assume the target to be composed of a layer of sample material having uniform thickness. Because many environmental samples, however, are composed of particles averaging several mu-m in diameter, the usual thick-target corrections are inappropriate. It has previously been shown that size corrections for spherical particles of homogeneous composition can be significant. In the current work a method is presented which employs Monte Carlo techniques to calculate X-ray intensity corrections for particles of arbitrary shape, composition, orientation and size distribution. Empirical equations for proton stopping power and X-ray production cross sections are used in conjunction with X-ray attenuation coefficients to calculate the intensity of the emergent beam. The uncertainty associated with the Monte Carlo calculation is also explored. It is shown that the spherical particle corrections are approximately correct for particles of near-spherical shape; however, they are inadequate for highly elongated or flattened particles or for particles of nonuniform composition.
First direct measurement of α−μ sticking in d t−μCF
BYU Authors: S. E. Jones, P. Li, L. M. Rees, E. V. Sheely, J. K. Shurtleff, and S. F. Taylor, published in AIP Conf. Proc.
Both (αμ)+ and α particles have been observed in coincidence with fusion neutrons in a gaseous D−T target at 2.8×10− 3 liquid‐hydrogen density. The initial muon sticking probability in muon‐catalyzed d−t fusion, measured directly for the first time, is (0.80±0.15±0.12 systematic)% in agreement with 'standard' theoretical calculations. However, this measured value does not support those theories that invoke special mechanisms to alter the initial sticking value.


On our final day at the Yoga retreat we were fed another gorgeous homegrown vegetarian meal and were sent on our way with these fruits which we picked straight out of the garden. I had never had white raspberries (though I prefer the red ones) and thoroughly enjoyed the novelty of eating a peach I picked myself out of a tree.
It is a fairly uneventful drive from North San Juan down to Berkeley. We drove with the roof down though and I got a nasty sun burn as I couldn't feel the heat due to the cool wind.
I've always wanted to visit the Berkeley campus. There is so much history there, including Berkeley having played a huge role in the sixties revolutionary thinking (Berkeley in the Sixties is a great documentary, I've seen it on Netflix). Berkeley was home to Ted Kaczynski (The Unabomber) before his retreat from society. Many great minds have crossed Sather Gate to and from their academic posts, including Oppenheimer and Marian Diamond (she is a wonderful biology professor, her lectures are available on YouTube).
Of course I had to get some shots of The Valley of Life Sciences building, as my field of expertise is in psychology and neuroscience.
Berkeley has its own dinosaurs!
Eucalyptus Grove. I had never seen Eucalyptus trees before, though they are beautiful. I have a visit to the painted Eucalyptus trees in Hawaii and South East Asia on my bucket list. Part of what makes Berkeley such a gorgeous campus are the pockets of nature which the university grew up around.
There are several of these wooden bridges built over streams around the campus.
The iconic shot of Sather Tower and Doe Library.
This beautiful grandfather clock built in the forest is reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland.
Some of Norcal's famous redwoods.
We picked up groceries for the week at Trader Joe's. I'm still waiting for Trader Joe's to branch out north of the border.
Cookie Butter! This is a spread which I put on toast or apples. It is made from Speculoos cookies and tastes like gingerbread. Probably my favourite Trader Joe's find.
This guacamole is delicious. Admittedly I picked it up because I loved the chemistry joke.
Macarons, which are found in the frozen section. Truthfully as far as deserts go, I don't find macarons all that delicious. I mostly find them pretty and thus like to have them around.
The fact that they are kept frozen makes them less appetizing in my opinion. That's all we got up to on our third day. Tomorrow's post is another day in San Francisco!


text:
Robert Emmet Dunlap
Performing Arts: Music
Robert Emmet Dunlap was born in South Boston and now lives on Cape Cod. He has worked as a guitarist, singer, and songwriter in both the U.S. and Ireland, performed and recorded with such artists as Delaney Bramlett, L.A. hit songwriter Dillon O'Brian, Metropolitan Opera award winner Dennis McNeil, "Titanic" trad band Gaelic Storm, and was lead guitarist for Los Angeles' premier Irish band, Ken O'Malley and The Twilight Lords (with Glenn Cornick of Jethro Tull), for eight years. He has done numerous theater productions at the Celtic Arts Center in Hollywood and did a weekly ten-minute spot for Irish Radio from L.A.
While living in Ireland, "Boston Bob" spent a year touring with bass player and rock legend Noel Redding of "Jimi Hendrix Experience" fame, and developed an increasing love for Irish tunes and ballads that he brought with him to Los Angeles. Hosting a weekly session at the Celtic Arts Center on Hollywood Boulevard, "Robert Emmet's Flying Circus", he juggled everything from jazz standards to blues, Irish, Scottish, and American folk songs, Show tunes, Opera singers, and the "International Celtic Samba Band."
Bob's song, Mick Ryan's Lament, has struck a chord with people worldwide for it's heartfelt tale of the ironies of war. The song has been recorded by many artists, including bluegrass legend Tim O'Brien on his 2001 CD Two Journeys, and by Tim O'Brien and Darrell Scott on their 2012 CD, We're Usually a Lot Better Than This. Tim also performed the song in March, 2
Bob's song, Mick Ryan's Lament, has struck a chord with people worldwide for it's heartfelt tale of the ironies of war. The song has been recorded by many artists, including bluegrass legend Tim O'Brien on his 2001 CD Two Journeys, and by Tim O'Brien and Darrell Scott on their 2012 CD, We're Usually a Lot Better Than This. Tim also performed the song in March, 2016 at the National Concert Hall in Dublin, Ireland, as part of their Imagining Home Concert Series in recognition of 100 years since the Irish Rebellion. It has also been recorded by hit songwriter Dillon O'Brian, gifted singer and instrumentalist Ken O'Malley and The Twilight Lords, world-renowned fiddler Kevin Burke with Ged Foley, country artist Ray Doyle, and Cape Cod favorites Stanley & Grimm (Sean Brennan and Nikki Engstrom). The song, recorded by Ray Doyle, was included in the documentary film, Bravo! Common Men, Uncommon Valor, about the Vietnam war.
Bob and his partner, Kathi Taylor (drums, percussion, vocals) are full time musicians on Cape Cod. They perform as a duet (BobKat and RedKat Duet), as well as with Sean Brennan in the rockin' Celtic Americana trio "The Skiffs" (regulars at O'Shea's Olde Inne in West Dennis). They also perform as a trio with renowned fiddler Rose Clancy (Chatham Fiddle Company), playing traditional Irish music and songs.
Artist Style: Music: Americana, Celtic, Folk


Derek Stoughton currently serves as Interim Director of Bands and Director of Athletic Bands at Southeastern Louisiana University. In this capacity, he is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Spirit of the Southland Marching Band, including writing drill and creating unique arrangements for the ensemble. Mr. Stoughton is also the conductor of both the Wind Symphony and Symphonic band, director of the Basketball Pep Band, as well as teaches courses in Music Education and observes student teachers in the Department of Fine and Performing Arts.
Prior to his appointment at Southeastern, Mr. Stoughton taught in the public schools of McKinney, Pflugerville, and Austin, TX. Ensembles under his direction were consistent sweepstakes award winners at UIL contests and other festivals across the state of Texas. Mr. Stoughton has also taught and co-ordinated percussion at both the middle and high school level, and his students have reached the area level of the Texas All-State audition process.
Mr. Stoughton holds a Master of Music degree in Wind Conducting from Oklahoma State University, and a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education and Music Studies from The University of Texas at Austin. His primary conducting teachers were Dr. Joseph Missal and Dr. Robert Carnochan, and he has also studied conducting with Dr. Kevin Sedatole, Prof. Steve Davis and Prof. Jerry Junkin.
Mr. Stoughton is active in the Louisiana Music Educators Association and the National Association for Music Education. He also holds professional memberships in Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia and Kappa Kappa Psi, as well as honorary membership in Tau Beta Sigma.