cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investigating surface finish, burr formation, and tool wear during machining of 3D printed carbon fiber reinforced polymer composite

Abstract Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are taking place as the most commonly used material in automotive and aerospace applications due to their superior strength-to- weight ratio, corrosion resistant exterior, and high performance under extreme conditions. Additive manufacturing or three-dimensional (3D) printing of CFRP composites is rising in popularity due to the ability to manufacture complex shapes and alter the fiber orientation of the material. However, difficult-to predict-microstructures along with non-uniform fiber dimensions plague researchers from predicting the response of the material. The objective of this research aims to investigate the machinability of 3D printed CFRP composites with different matrix arrangements, while varying machining process parameters and lubricating conditions. When testing the machinability of each material sample, one edge and slot milling operation was performed at the same feed rate, followed by an additional slot milling operation with an increased feed rate. These tests were run on varying fiber orientations, to observe how the machining response changes with differing matrix layout. After experimenting with different machining parameters and microstructural compositions, post-process machining was found to improve the quality of the surface finish when machining 3D printed CFRP composites. In all three samples, light microscope images showed a surface with less imperfections and protrusions, signifying a more even and applicable surface finish. In addition to the improved surface finish, machining results in burr formation, that requires additional efforts to clean the surface allowing use in end application. To reduce the degree of burr formation and improve machining results from dry machining, experiments were re-run using minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) techniques. Both the surface finish and tool wear were found to improve under MQL conditions. The burr formation was also significantly reduced, when MQL were used in the machining of CFRP composites.
Use of implementation science to plan adoption of a tobacco-free policy on a historically black college/university (HBCU) campus

OBJECTIVE Implementation science tools were used to identify facilitators and barriers to adopting a tobacco-free policy on a historically Black college/university (HBCU). Participants: Study participants included 13 University staff, two students, and two public health educators/school alumni. Data were collected in 2015-2016. Methods: The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to develop questions for focus groups and individual interviews. The CFIR was also used by two research team members to code transcripts independently, using an iterative deduction process to achieve ≥85% agreement on CFIR domains. Coded quotations were evaluated using the Qualitative Implementation Framework (QIF) to ascertain next adoption planning steps. Results: Qualitative data suggested that building capacity for tobacco control, linking policy to HBCU identity and priorities such as addressing marijuana use might facilitate adoption of a tobacco-free campus policy. Conclusions: Implementation science tools may be useful for planning adoption of comprehensive tobacco-free policies at HBCUs.
Flood-fragility analysis of instream bridges–consideration of flow hydraulics, geotechnical uncertainties, and variable scour depth

Floods, bridge scour, and flood-associated loads have caused over sixty percent of bridge failures in the U.S. Current practices for the vulnerability assessment of instream bridges under the effec...
Determination of Elastic Modulus of Silicon Carbide (SiC) Thin Diaphragms via Mode-Dependent Duffing Nonlinear Resonances

We report on a non-destructive, on-chip technique for determining the elastic modulus ( $E_{\mathrm {Y}}$ ) of silicon carbide (SiC) thin diaphragms by measuring their nonlinear resonances. Departing from the conventional static load-deflection techniques ( e.g. , beam bending, membrane bulging and nanoindentation), the nonlinear resonance approach enables characterizing mechanical properties without risk to the microdevices, bypassing complicated contact-mode sample preparation, and bulky, expensive apparatus. We derive the mode-dependent Duffing resonances of the diaphragms in the ‘membrane’ regime, and correlates $E_{\mathrm {Y}}$ with the Duffing ‘backbone’ curve. To verify our model, we fabricate SiC square diaphragms (1mm $\times 1$ mm $\times 2~\mu \text{m}$ ) that exhibit multimode resonances up to 500kHz and quality ( $Q$ ) factors up to 16,000. Taking the device’s (2,2) mode as an example, we obtain $E_{\mathrm {Y}} = 436\,\,\pm \,\,27$ GPa via its Duffing nonlinear response. The technique can be readily and widely extended to other thin films and MEMS/NEMS resonators. [2020-0209]
Thermally-driven coalescence in thin liquid film flowing down a fibre

This paper presents a study on the dynamics of a thin liquid film flowing down a vertical cylindrical fibre under a streamwise thermal gradient. Previous works on isothermal flows have shown that the inlet flow and fibre geometry are the main factors that determine a transition from the absolute to the convective instability flow regimes. Our experiments demonstrate that an irregular wavy pattern and bead coalescence, which are commonly seen in the convective regime, can also be triggered by applying a thermal gradient along the fibre. We develop a lubrication model that accounts for gravity, temperature-dependent viscosity and surface tension to describe the thermal effects on downstream bead dynamics. Numerical simulations of the model show good agreement between the predicted droplet coalescence dynamics and the experimental data.
Skull Base Injury and Intracranial Complication from Office Sinus Surgery

A 65-year-old man with a history of sensorineural hearing loss and recurrent otitis externa presented with complaints of otorrhea, nasal congestion, and facial pressure. He was previously treated with two courses of antibiotics for his otitis. In addition, he was administering saline rinses, cetirizine, and fluticasone nasal spray; however, it is unclear if these therapies were targeted to sinonasal complaints as he had no documented history of allergic or rhinologic complaints beyond “mucinous nasal discharge.” Computed tomography (CT) imaging of his sinuses demonstrated mucosal thickening in the maxillary sinuses and opacification of the ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses. A recommendation was made for the patient to proceed with office-based endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). The patient underwent bilateral ethmoidectomy, frontal sinusotomy, sphenoidotomy, and maxillary antrostomy in the office setting under local anesthesia; image guidance was not used. The ethmoidectomy was completed with Blakesly forceps and a microdebrider, while the maxillary, sphenoid, and frontal sinuses were addressed via balloon sinuplasty; placement of the balloon in the frontal sinus was reportedly confirmed by transillumination. The middle turbinates were avulsed with grasping forceps. No complications were noted intraoperatively and the patient was discharged to home from clinic.
Canine Stifle Biomechanics Associated With Tibial Tuberosity Advancement Predicted Using a Computer Model.

Objective To evaluate the effects of tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) on canine biomechanics in the cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL)-deficient stifle using a 3-dimensional quasi-static rigid body pelvic limb computer model simulating the stance phase of gait. Study Design Computer simulations. Animals A 5-year-old neutered male Golden Retriever weighing 33 kg. Methods A TTA was implemented in a previously developed canine pelvic limb computer model using the tibial plateau slope and common tangent planning techniques. Ligament loads, relative tibial translation, and relative tibial rotation were determined and compared to CrCL-intact and CrCL-deficient stifles. Results The TTA significantly decreased peak caudal cruciate ligament load, significantly increased peak lateral collateral ligament load, and significantly changed peak medial collateral ligament load occurrence, while there was no significant difference in peak patellar ligament load compared to the CrCL-intact stifle. Compared to the CrCL-deficient stifle, peak caudal cruciate, lateral collateral and medial collateral ligament loads significantly decreased, while peak patellar ligament load was similar, peak relative tibial translation significantly decreased and peak relative tibial rotation was converted to external rotation in the TTA-treated stifle. Each TTA planning technique generated similar caudal cruciate, medial collateral, and patellar ligament loading as well as relative tibial translation, but lateral collateral ligament loading and occurrence of relative tibial rotation differed significantly across the techniques. Conclusions Model-predicted stifle ligament loads improved following TTA compared to the CrCL-deficient stifle, but TTA did not restore CrCL-intact stifle biomechanics. The TTA effectively reduced tibial translation, but tibial rotation was not stabilized.
Interventions for Children with Anger Problems

Anger in children has received a lot of attention. This article is a review of several rational-emotive behavioral interventions for children struggling with anger problems. The first step discussed in this article involves helping children learn to recognize their internal signals that they are becoming angry. Children can be taught that there are certain physiological events that occur immediately preceding anger. Another important component of anger management involves the use of distraction, in which children are encouraged to substitute a “happy” or “funny” mental image to interrupt the anger producing thoughts. Finally, a detailed analysis of rational-emotive imagery is provided for children needing more extensive interventions with their anger problems.
Thermodynamic Models of Dry-Wet Cooling Towers

The basic thermodynamic models, which are necessary for a comprehensive consideration of all cooling system costs, are outlined herein for the combination dry-wet cooling tower. The various subsystem models of indirect air-cooled heat exchangers, crossflow evaporative piles, turbines, and condensers are combined to give a manageable overall thermodynamic model, suitable for large numbers of repetitive calculations at all possible meteorological conditions. The input quantities for the resulting model are consistent with subsystem designs performed elsewhere. The resulting model represents several configurations of the parallel air-path, crossflow, induced-draft, dry-wet cooling tower. Example results illustrate the model use and indicate its large applicability in economic, water consumption, and plume emission studies.
Travel Opinion Leaders and Seekers

While opinion leadership has been recognized as important in tourism, there has been very little empirical research investigating the phenomenon. Given new developments in social media technologies, it is especially important to understand whether travel opinion leadership and seeking are drivers of specific social media perceptions and behaviours. Based on an online survey of US online travellers, this paper seeks to identify travel opinion leaders and seekers and their characteristics. Further, the research conducted investigated linkages between travel opinion leadership/ seeking and travel social media use. The findings suggest that travel opinion leadership and seeking are distinct but connected. Both opinion leaders and seekers are technology savvy, young, educated, involved in travel planning and engaged in social media use for travel. What distinguishes opinion leaders is their greater travel experience and greater trust in official sources of travel information.
Assessing the Possible Impact of the Violent Crime Control Act of 1994 on Prison and Jail Overcrowding Suits

Section 20409 of the Violent Crime Control Act of 1994 contains several provisions that appear to be designed to diminish the role of federal courts in prison and jail overcrowding cases. This article examines the likely impact of these provisions and concludes that they are not likely to bring about a substantial change in the present role of federal courts in these cases.
New insight on Mars: A network of ancient lakes and discontinuous river segments

With an abundance of ice recently detected just below the surface of Mars [Boynton et al., 2002],the possibility that life has existed or still may exist on Mars may hinge on examining its past climate and the duration of surface water flows. Was Mars ever a warm and wet planet, or has it always been cold and dry? The study of surface depressions, in conjunction with river features, yields new insight into these questions. Together, these features provide a more complete picture of a surface water network that may have existed on what must have been a warmer early Mars.
Incorporation of 14C‐bicarbonate into the free amino acid pool during hyperosmotic stress in an intertidal copepod

In response to hyperosmotic stress, the harpacticoid copepod Tigriopus californicus rapidly accumulates high intracellular concentrations of free alanine and proline. Using 14C-bicarbonate as a tracer, in vivo experiments were carried out to determine if pyruvate or phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylation function in the synthesis of carbon skeletons for free amino acid (FAA) synthesis. Label was incorporated into four FAA (aspartate, glutamate, proline, and alanine) during hyperosmotic stress. Relative specific activities of the FAA synthesized in vivo and in vitro enzyme activities suggest that malic enzyme (EC 1.1.1.40) carries out the carboxylation reaction. Incorporation of label into proline was extensive for at least 24 hr after transfer of adults acclimated to 50% seawater to 100% seawater; the proline pool showed relatively slow turnover following its accumulation (approximately 40% drop in specific activity in 48 hr) compared to the other FAA (complete loss of label in 24 hr). While bicarbonate fixation occurs in animals acclimated to both 50% and 100% seawater, label is observed in glutamate and aspartate but not proline. The results of these experiments suggest that the metabolic pathway by which bicarbonate label is incorporated into proline is activated by hyperosmotic stress and is effectively shut down following 24–48 hr of proline accumulation.
Seasonal Changes in Microhabitat Selection by Rainbow Trout in a Small Stream

Abstract Shifts in microhabitat selection by rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss were related to seasonal and ontogenetic factors in a small stream characterized by short riffles, small pools, and boulder substrate. Resource availability did not differ significantly between summer and November sampling dates for most variables related to water velocity, substrate, and cover, although depths were greater and temperatures were significantly lower in November. Ontogenetic shifts were found for total depth, focal elevation, mean water column velocity, focal velocity, surface velocity, and substrate, but not for relative depth or temperature. When microhabitat selection was adjusted for fish size, selection was significantly different between seasons, most notably for velocity. Ontogenetic shifts in microhabitat use by young-of-year rainbow trout were interrupted by cooling winter temperatures. These changes resulted in substantially different microhabitat requirements for all rainbow trout size-classes in diffe...
Growth factor regulation of secreted matrix metalloproteinase and plasminogen activators in prostate cancer cells, normal prostate fibroblasts and normal osteoblasts.

We assessed the relative levels of secreted matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and plasminogen activators (PAs) in PC-3 cells, prostate fibroblasts and osteoblasts in the presence and absence of VEGF, TGFβ1 and bFGF. Fibroblasts and osteoblasts secreted more MMPs -1 and -2 than did PC-3 cells, while PC-3 s contributed the majority of PAs. MMP-1 expression was downregulated by transforming growth factor β-1 (TGFβ1) treatment in prostate fibroblasts and upregulated by basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in both stromal lines. In PC-3 cells, TGFβ1 and bFGF increased urokinase plasminogen activator secretion. TGFβ1 decreased tissue plasminogen activator secretion in all cell lines. Prostate cancer cells associated with fibroblasts or osteoblasts have a variety of MMPs and PAs to facilitate matrix degradation.
Personality and psychophysiological profiles of police officer and firefighter recruits

Abstract Some have suggested that people who join emergency-services professions have a unique set of personality and response characteristics that allow them to manage the intense stressors of their particular jobs. The nature of personality and response profiles of individuals from different emergency-services professions could have both clinical and policy implications. The present study examined self-reported personality traits of police and firefighter recruits, as well as their psychophysiological response patterns during a loud-tone procedure. Police recruits scored higher than firefighters on gregariousness, a facet of Extraversion, and on dutifulness and deliberation, facets of Conscientiousness. Compared to a normative sample, police and firefighters both scored higher on excitement-seeking, a facet of Extraversion. Comparisons with psychophysiological data from a non-rescuer sample suggest that the firefighter recruits exhibited higher heart rate and skin conductance (SC) levels, while police recruits showed larger eyeblink electromyogram (EMG) startle responses and required more trials to reach SC habituation criteria.
Status of the Columbia 256-node machine

Abstract The first two weeks of successful operation of our 16 Gigaflop, 256-node parallel computer is reported. The characteristics of this machine and the two preceding versions are briefly reviewed. The physics program being run on those 16- and 64-node machines is described, with some discussion of new string tension results on large lattices obtained with the 64-node machine. Finally plans for a future 1 Teraflop machine are considered.
A journey towards organisation development

Purpose – This article aims to introduce organization development (OD) and its potential application in organizational environments by discussing core concepts, practice models and providing guidance on evaluation and development.Design/methodology/approach – The methodology includes reflections on OD models and practice based on experience as an OD practitioner in the international non‐governmental organization (INGO) sector.Findings – It is difficult to describe a definitive view of OD because OD practitioners do different things in different contexts. Nevertheless, there are evolving models of OD derived from practice that can guide future thinking, practice, evaluation and development in this field.Originality/value – The paper provides a range of models, perspectives and approaches derived from OD practice in international non‐governmental organizations (INGOs).
The principal origin of lake acidity: Underground mines, minespoil, or buried gob∗

A project was initiated to investigate the previously accepted hypothesis explaining the cause of poor quality water in Howard Williams Lake in southeastern Ohio (USA). The poor Lake water quality ...
Effect of caffeine on platelet inhibition by clopidogrel in healthy subjects and patients with coronary artery disease

Background Clopidogrel inhibits the platelet P2Y12 receptor, leading to increased intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels. Caffeine also causes a rise in platelet cAMP. We aimed to test the effect of acute caffeine administration on platelet inhibition by clopidogrel, in healthy volunteers and patients with coronary artery disease. Methods Cohort 1: 12 healthy subjects were enrolled in a 2-week crossover study. Blood samples were drawn at baseline, 2, 4, and 24 hours after 300 mg clopidogrel intake. At the first week, 6 subjects received caffeine (300 mg pill, equivalent to a medium sized coffee drink) 30 minutes after clopidogrel. At week 2, the other 6 subjects received caffeine. One month later the effect of caffeine alone was tested. Platelet function was evaluated by aggregation in response to 5, 10, and 20 μmol/L adenosine diphosphate, 1 μg/mL collagen, and flow cytometric determination of P-selectin expression, PAC-1 binding, and vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein phosphorylation. Cohort 2: 40 patients with coronary artery disease receiving aspirin and clopidogrel (75 mg daily) for ≥1 week were tested at baseline and 2.5 hours after caffeine (300 mg). Results In cohort 1 (crossover study), caffeine was associated with lower adenosine diphosphate–induced aggregation at 4 hours, lower activation markers at 2 hours, and lower vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein phosphorylation at 4 hours after clopidogrel. Caffeine alone had no effect on the assessed platelet surface biomarkers. In cohort 2, caffeine administration was associated with lower platelet activation markers (P-selectin, PAC-1 binding), without significant effect on aggregation. Conclusions Acute caffeine administration after clopidogrel loading appears to be associated with enhanced platelet inhibition 2 to 4 hours after clopidogrel intake. The mechanism probably involves synergistic increase in cAMP levels.
A Milestone-Based Approach to Breast Imaging Instruction for Residents

Residency is historically an apprenticeship, learning through observation and instruction with varying degrees of structure. Since July 2013, the Next Accreditation System (NAS) of the ACGME has required the use of progressive milestones for each radiology residency rotation. The authors describe how a breast imaging curriculum can be structured to comply with the NAS. The breast imaging rotations move from basic recognition and management of suspicious findings, through the detection of more subtle findings and learning of biopsy skills, and finally to the synthesis and management of more advanced findings. Likewise, patient communication moves from sharing imaging findings to the more challenging situation of breaking the bad news of a cancer diagnosis. This progression of skills mirrors the objectives of levels 1 to 4 of the NAS. Learning objectives have been adapted to form very specific milestones for each rotation, which results in a shared responsibility between residents and faculty members. Using clear expectations may improve the uniformity of teaching, resident satisfaction, and facilitate performance review for residents who are struggling. Didactic lectures, case-based conferences, teaching file cases, and assigned readings provide different approaches to education, allowing variation in learning styles. Performance on the breast imaging section on the ACR Diagnostic Radiology In-Training examination at our institution has risen from below the 50th percentile to around the 80th percentile beginning in 2011.
Furan- and selenophene-2-carboxylato derivatives of dimolybdenum and ditungsten (MM): a comparison of their chemical and photophysical properties

From the reactions between M(2)(T(i)PB)(4), where T(i)PB = 2,4,6-triisopropylbenzoate and two equivalents each of 2-furan carboxylic acid, FuCO(2)H, and 2-selenophene carboxylic acid, SpCO(2)H in toluene, the new compounds trans-M(2)(T(i)PB)(2)(O(2)CFu)(2) (1a M = Mo, 2a M = W) and trans-M(2)(T(i)PB)(2)(O(2)CSp)(2) (1b M = Mo, 2b M = W) were formed. These new compounds have been characterized by (1)H NMR, steady-state UV-Vis-NIR absorption and emission spectroscopy, cyclic and differential pulse voltammetry, and fs and ns transient absorption spectroscopy. The compound Mo(2)(T(i)PB)(2)(O(2)CSp)(2) (1b) has been characterized by single crystal X-ray crystallography. These data are compared with those previously reported for related 2-thiophene carboxylate derivatives: M(2)(T(i)PB)(2)(O(2)CTh)(2). The physico-chemical data correlate well with electronic structure calculations performed on model compounds. All compounds have detectible S(1) photoexcited states with lifetimes that vary from ∼5 ps to < 1 ps. The molybdenum compounds have T(1) states with microsecond lifetimes that are assigned as MMδδ* whereas the T(1) states for tungsten are (3)MLCT with lifetimes on the order of nanoseconds. In all cases, shorter lifetimes were seen in complexes containing heavier atoms.
Prenatal cocaine and alcohol exposures affect rat behavior in a stress test (the Porsolt swim test).

Abstract Prenatal cocaine and alcohol exposures have been associated with a variety of adverse effects ranging from subtle neurobehavioral abnormalities to major malformations. In this study, we used the Porsolt swim test to assess the effects of prenatal cocaine and alcohol exposures on stress-related behavior. Pregnant Long-Evans rats were injected daily with 80 mg/kg cocaine HCl (SC) or 6.2–6.5 g/kg ethyl alcohol (PO) from gestation days 7–20 with half the dose given in the morning and the other half in the afternoon. Pair-fed and ad lib control groups were also used. One male offspring from each litter was evaluated in the Porsolt swim test at the age of 120 days. The alcohol and cocaine groups were less immobile (i.e., struggled more to escape) than the controls. These results suggest that prenatal exposure to either alcohol or cocaine can adversely affect behavior in stressful or fearful situations.
Sintering Behavior of Ceramic Films Constrained by a Rigid Substrate

A model is presented in which the sintering behavior of a ceramic film which is constrained by a rigid substrate is contrasted with the sintering behavior of a free film. The problem is made simple by the assumption that the stress field developed in the film is uniform. This simplification allows several closed form solutions to be obtained. The solutions give new insights into the sintering behavior of films supported on a substrate. It is found (1) that the shear rate of the film is more important in the sintering process than its densification rate when the film is constrained by a substrate, (2) that the incompatibility stress is time dependent and reaches its maximum value during the initial stages of sintering, (3) that the magnitude of that maximum stress may be tensile or it may be compressive depending on the shear response of the material, and (4) that if the incompatibility stress is tensile it can lead to the formation of cracks or defects in the ceramic film.
Dipolar character of ligand-centered transitions in transition metal tris-bipyridyl complexes

Abstract The Stark spectra of bipyridine (bpy) and the metaltris(2,2′-bipyridine) complexes of Zn, Fe, Ru and Os have been measured in the ligand-centered region in the near UV The results show that excitation into these ligand-centered absorption bands of the metal complexes leads to excited states with dipole moments that are substantially larger than would be expected were the transitions purely ligand-centered. The difference dipoles between ground and excited states are 4.6 ± 0.3 D ƒ for Ru, 3.5 t 0.3 D ƒ for Os, 2.2 ± 0.2 D ƒ for Fe, 1.4 ± 0.2 D ƒ for Zn and 0.5 ± 0.5 D ƒ for free bpy (ƒ is the local field correction: 1.1–1.3). The values of the excited state dipole moments roughly correlate with the separation between the UV ligand-centered bands and the visible MLCT bands. Possible mixing of ligand-centered excited states with MLCT states is discussed.
The Role of Radical Surgery in the Management of Radiation Recurrent and Large Volume Prostate Cancer

Twenty-two patients seen between 1975 and 1988 were analyzed who had surgical attempts to cure locally advanced prostate cancer by exenterative procedures or salvage surgery for radiation recurrent disease. Twelve patients (Group I) underwent either a salvage cystoprostatectomy or perineal prostatectomy for radiorecurrent disease, including three patients with a Kock continent urinary diversion done in combination with the salvage operation. Five of the 12 (41.7%) recurrent disease confined to the surgical specimen and 11 of 12 (91.7%) are alive at a mean follow-up of 49 months, including four patients (25%) with a completely negative serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) value (less than 0.2 ng/dl). All perineal prostatectomy patients are continent, and two of the three Kock pouch patients are continent. Ten of the 22 patients (Group II) had a cystoprostatectomy or exenteration for locally advanced disease that the surgeon did not think was amenable to standard radical prostatectomy. Only one of these ten patients had negative surgical margins, capsule, and seminal vesicles. Nine are alive (although only one patient has no evidence of disease) at a mean follow-up of 59 months. Morbidity was substantial with a 50% major complication rate including four patients requiring reoperation because of bleeding, abscess, bowel obstruction, or colostomy closure. Salvage procedures for radiorecurrent disease can be done safely, even with the inclusion of a continent diversion, and may be curative or provide survival benefit to carefully selected patients. Cystoprostatectomy or exenteration for locally advanced disease does not appear to be a curative endeavor for most patients and may be accompanied by significant morbidity.
An axiomatic approach to fuzzy set theory

Abstract An axiomatic basis for the concept of “fuzzy set” is established, following the classical class theory developed by von Neumann and Bernays (VNB). The set of axioms we exhibit is the minimal set that enables a formal definition of fuzzy sets, without assuming a universe of discourse, and requires fewer axioms than any other published formal definition of fuzzy sets.
Performance evaluation of different depth from defocus (DFD) techniques

In this paper, several binary mask based Depth From Defocus (DFD) algorithms are proposed to improve autofocusing performance and robustness. A binary mask is defined by thresholding image Laplacian to remove unreliable points with low Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). Three different DFD schemes-- with/without spatial integration and with/without squaring-- are investigated and evaluated, both through simulation and actual experiments. The actual experiments use a large variety of objects including very low contrast Ogata test charts. Experimental results show that autofocusing RMS step error is less than 2.6 lens steps, which corresponds to 1.73%. Although our discussion in this paper is mainly focused on a spatial domain method STM1, this technique should be of general value for different approaches such as STM2 and other spatial domain based algorithms.
Benign Superior Vena Cava Syndrome Due to Suppurative Mediastinal Lymphadenitis: Anterior Mediastinoscopic Management

The benign superior vena cava syndrome is an uncommon medical emergency. We describe a case of the superior vena cava syndrome caused by suppurative mediastinal lymphadenitis. The organisms isolated from various cultures were group C β-hemolytic Streptococcus, Fusobacterium species, Corynebacterium species, Eikenella corrodens, and Streptococcus milleri. These anaerobic bacteria are part of the normal flora of the upper respiratory tract and the oral cavity. Anterior mediastinoscopy through the right parasternal approach was used to drain the anterior mediastinal abscess and to establish the etiologic factor.
Structural requirements for ipso-nitration with cerium(IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN)

Abstract Compounds in which the carbon skeleton contains at least a diarylmethane with the aromatic rings appropriately substituted by electron donating groups exhibited ipso-nitration when treated with cerium(IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN).
Factors Influencing Color Intensity in the Reaction Between 17,21-Dihydroxy-20-ketosteroids and the Phenylhydrazine-Sulfuric Acid Reagent

The relative chromogenicities of tetrahydrocortisone (THE), tetrahydrocortisol (THF) and hydrocortisone (F) in the Porter-Silber procedure have been determined. Losses of steroids in the various stages of the method have been quantitated and confirmed using isotopically labeled steroids. The data show that THF has an inherent chromogenicity 15% less than that of THE; in the partition between water and dichloromethane THF losses are 30% those for F and THE, 5%; and in the partition between dichloromethane and the Porter-Silber reagent THF is less effectively extracted unless the volume of reagent is kept above a critical level.
The UK renewable energy programme

Abstract The UK Government has supported a programme on Renewable Energy since 1975. In 1988 progress was reviewed and this led to some redirection of the programme with greater emphasis on the commercial development of renewables, as published in Energy Paper 55. The climate in which Renewable Energy operates has been influenced recently by a number of factors including privatisation of the UK electricity supply industry, when the Government introduced the New Fossil Fuel Obligation and publication of the Government's 1990 White Paper on the Environment which noted that the Government is working towards a figure of new renewable energy generating capacity of 1000 MW by 2000. The paper aims to give an overview of the present state of development of the renewable technologies in the UK and to discuss some of the factors - technical and non-technical - which will affect their likely future development.
Clay minerals of the Permian Rotliegend Group in the North Sea and adjacent areas

The nature, distribution and origin of clay minerals in the hydrocarbon-bearing Permian Rotliegend sandstones of the North Sea and the adjacent areas of the Netherlands and Germany are reviewed. The clay minerals occur as detrital coatings of smectite and smectite-illite on the surfaces of sandgrains, and as later diagenetic cements of kaolinite, chlorite (two varieties), and illite in the pore spaces of those sandstones. Two diagenetic clay mineral assemblages are predominant in the Rotliegend of the North Sea. The kaolinite-illite assemblage is restricted to the Rotliegend of shelf areas which underwent shallow burial followed by strong Jurassic/Cretaceous (Late Cimmerian) structural inversions, whereas the illite-chlorite assemblage is associated with basinal areas that underwent deep and rapid burial throughout the Mesozoic. The factors controlling mineralogy, crystal chemistry and morphology of those diagenetic clay minerals, as well as their regional distribution and origin, are numerous, complicated, and inter-related. Evidence suggests that the following aspects were important parameters: (1) variations in the original depositional arid desert environment; (2) the chemistry and flow patterns of the porewaters; (3) temperature and timing of clay mineral formation; (4) local burial history; (5) the presence or absence of meteoric water; and (6) the structural setting of the Rotliegend sandstones. Oxygen isotope data indicate that the illite cements formed over a wide range of temperatures (24–140°C) that is consistent with the deep burial conditions prevailing in the palaeo-basins. In contrast, oxygen isotopes indicate that kaolinite cements formed over a more restricted temperature range (40–80°C) and under the influence of meteoric water penetrating the sandstones of the shelf areas as a result of their Late Cimmerian uplift and associated erosion. Hypotheses suggesting that the absence of kaolinite cement from the deeply buried Rotliegend sandstones is caused by its illitization during burial, and that the chlorite cements have formed by the alteration of earlier smectite, smectite-chlorite and corrensite cements, are not supported by evidence.
The fate of Xylella fastidiosa in vineyard weeds and other alternate hosts in California.

The fate of Xylella fastidiosa, the bacterium that causes Pierce's disease of grape, was assessed in 29 species of plants associated with vineyards in California's San Joaquin Valley. Bacterial populations and movement in greenhouse-grown plants were measured 1, 3, and 9 weeks after mechanical and insect inoculation. X. fastidiosa was recovered in 27 of 29 species in greenhouse tests, with common sunflower (Helianthus annuus), cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium), annual bur-sage (Ambrosia acanthicarpa), morning glory (Ipomoea purpurea), horseweed (Conyza canadensis), sacred datura (Datura wrightii), poison hemlock (Conium maculatum), and fava bean (Vicia faba cv. Aquadulce) being infected in more than 50% of inoculation attempts. Twenty-three species supported bacterial populations in excess of 104 CFU/g of plant tissue. X. fastidiosa populations increased for 9 weeks after inoculation in six species, and were static or declined in 16 species. Although the blue-green sharpshooter (Graphocephala atropunctata) was more efficient than mechanical inoculation for infecting plants, median populations and systemic movement for the two methods did not differ significantly. X. fastidiosa colonization of greenhouse and field-grown plants was compared in five alternate hosts. X. fastidiosa was recovered from 23 and 34% of field-grown plants, compared with 49 and 67% of greenhouse-grown plants, in the winter and summer, respectively, with at least 10 times fewer bacteria in field plants in the winter. Although X. fastidiosa has a wide host plant range, its fate in most species is variable and heavily influenced by field conditions.
Quantum molecular dynamics study of polaron recombination in conjugated polymers

We examine the dynamics of polaron recombination in conjugated polymer systems using mixed quantum classical molecular dynamics. The model treats the particle-hole pair as a fully correlated two-particle quantum mechanical wave function interacting with a one-dimensional classical vibrational lattice. This description allows a natural evolution of the particle-hole wave function from the polaron limit to the exciton limit, and we have performed real-time simulations of the coupled nuclear and electronic dynamics associated with the scattering of polarons into exciton states. We use these simulations to calculate cross sections for exciton formation as a function of spin state, and explore the variation of these cross sections with respect to changes in the magnitude of the particle-hole Coulomb interaction and the effective masses of the quasiparticles. Our results indicate that for an optimal choice of parameters the electroluminescence quantum yield may be as high as 59%, substantially greater than the 25% predicted by simple spin statistics. We interpret these results in a diabatic framework, and suggest strategies for the design of organic systems for use in electroluminescent devices.
BILATERAL SIMULTANEOUS URETERAL TUMORS

A patient with bilateral, simultaneous ureteral tumors is described. A brief comment on therapeutic techniques utilized in previous cases is presented. Ureteral tumors are not a common occurrence in clinical practice. Simultaneous bilateral ureteral tumors are very unusual and raise interesting therapeutic dilemmas. We describe a patient with simultaneous, bilateral ureteral tumors.
Biomechanical Factors Contributing to Marathon Race Success

During marathon running, the body's metabolic resources become depleted and musculoskeletal stress and fatigue begin to hinder performance, making efficient running a must. Biomechanical studies of long distance running have tried to identify how body structure and running mechanics interact with performance, economy and injury, and typically have involved groups of subjects. While moderate relationships have been identified, the outcomes include conflicting results, vague conclusions and unclear consequences. Easily identifiable and universally applicable patterns of efficient movement have not been found. An alternative avenue of research is described that concentrates on identifying how an individual runner's structure and functional abilities influence performance, economy and injury. It is hoped that when such an approach identifies important relationships for individuals, the patterns identified will lead to a more general understanding of the underlying mechanisms.
The spin density distribution in some phenyl substituted imidazyl and pyrryl radicals

ENDOR spectroscopy has been used to interpret the E.S.R. spectra of the 2,4,5-triphenylimidazyl, tetraphenylpyrryl, tetrakis (p-tolyl) pyrryl, tetrakis (p-anisyl) pyrryl radicals. Using the hyperfine coupling constants thus obtained in conjunction with a McLachlan-type HMO calculation the spin density distribution in these radicals is calculated. The configuration of the phenyl rings and the deviation of their bond lengths from hexagonal symmetry is inferred from the MO parameters required to fit the experimental couplings.
More on shear modulus collapse of lattices at high pressure

Abstract In his recent paper, Shear modulus collapse of lattices at high pressure, J. Phys. Cond. Matt. 16 (2004) L125, V.V. Kechin claims that the zero temperature shear modulus of a metallic solid vanishes at a high critical pressure, and the critical pressures for this shear modulus collapse lie in the range 0–250 Mbar for elemental metals. Here we demonstrate that Kechin's arguments contain an erroneous assumption, and therefore, do not prove that all metals become mechanically unstable at high pressures. Ab initio calculations and experimental results on a number of solids are analyzed to confirm our conclusion.
An integrated model of stomatal development and leaf physiology

• Stomatal conductance (g(s)) is constrained by the size and number of stomata on the plant epidermis, and the potential maximum rate of g(s) can be calculated based on these stomatal traits (Anatomical g(smax)). However, the relationship between Anatomical g(smax) and operational g(s) under atmospheric conditions remains undefined. • Leaf-level gas-exchange measurements were performed for six Arabidopsis thaliana genotypes that have different Anatomical g(smax) profiles resulting from mutations or transgene activity in stomatal development. • We found that Anatomical g(smax) was an accurate prediction of g(s) under gas-exchange conditions that maximized stomatal opening, namely high-intensity light, low [CO₂], and high relative humidity. Plants with different Anatomical g(smax) had quantitatively similar responses to increasing [CO₂] when g(s) was scaled to Anatomical g(smax). This latter relationship allowed us to produce and test an empirical model derived from the Ball-Woodrow-Berry equation that estimates g(s) as a function of Anatomical g(smax), relative humidity, and [CO₂] at the leaf. • The capacity to predict operational g(s) via Anatomical g(smax) and the pore-specific short-term response to [CO₂] demonstrates a precise link between stomatal development and leaf physiology. This connection should be useful to quantify the gas flux of plants in past, present, and future CO₂ regimes based upon the anatomical features of stomata.
A new technique for the growth of superconducting YBa2Cu3O6 + δ crystals completely separated from flux

Abstract Growth of completely flux-separated YBa2Cu3O6 + δ (referred to as 123 phase) crystals using a novel technique is described. The technique employs a modification of the seed pulling method commonly used in crystal growth. The crystals are grown in the temperature range of 960–1000°C using a BaCuO2 flux. A 123 flux ratio of 1:5 is maintained. Photographs of the crystals and photomicrograph of the surfaces are presented to show complete flux-separation of the crystals measuring 6 mm × 3 mm × 1 mm. The Raman spectra recorded on the as-grown crystals show that they are in the tetragonal phase. Magnetic susceptibility measurements on crystals annealed in an oxygen atmosphere show a superconducting transition starting at 71 K. The present technique offers a possibility of growing large, completely flux-separated crystals of 123 for superconductivity research.
Fine Motor Abilities of Infants

SUMMARY Thirty-six infants (26 full-term and 10 pre-term) were classified at eight months of age on the basis of their demonstrating co-ordinated fine motor ability or clumsiness. Comparisons were made of the duration and frequency of commonly observed behaviors (e.g. reaching for objects) exhibited by the infants in each group. The results indicated that the co-ordinated group did significantly more object-exploring, both manipulative and oral, than the clumsy group. Multivariate analyses of commonly observed behaviors showed a significant over-all group difference for frequency of behaviors and a trend towards duration of behaviors. The results are discussed in terms of each group's style of object interaction. RESUME 36 nourrissons (26 nes a terme et 10 prematures) ont ete differencies a l'âge de huit mois sur la base d'une aptitude motrice fine de coordination (groupe co) ou d'une maladresse (groupe cl). Des comparaisons ont ete faites sur la duree et la frequence des comportements observes communement (par exemple saisie des objets) presentes par les nourrissons des deux groupes. Les resultats montrent que le groupe co explorait plus d'objets, a la fois manuellement et oralement que le groupe cl. Les analyses factorielles des comportements observes communement a montre une difference inter-groupe significative pour la frequence des comportements et une tendence pour la duree des comportements. Les resultats sont discutes en terme du style de chaque groupe dans l'interaction avec les objets. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG 36 Sauglinge (26 reifund 10 fruhgeborene) wurden im Alter von 8 Monaten untersucht und nach ihren koordinierten feinmotorischen Fahigkeiten beurteilt, (co-Gruppe) bzw. nach ihrer Unbeholfenheit (cl Gruppe). Es wurden die Dauer und die Haufigkeit allgemein beobachteter Verhaltensweisen (z.B. Greifen nach Gegenstanden) der Kinder beider Gruppen verglichen. Dei Ergebnisse zeigten, das die co Gruppe signifikant mehr sowohl manipulative wie orale Objekterforschung zeigte als die cl Gruppe. Eingehende Analysen der alltemein beobachteten Verhaltensweisen zeigten einen signifikanten allgemeinen Gruppenunterschied im Hinblick auf die Frequenz sowie die Neigung zum Beibehalten von Verhaltensmustern. Die Ergebnisse werden dahingehend diskutiert, auf welche Art sich jede Gruppe mit Gegenstanden auseinandersetzt. RESUMEN 36 Lactantes (26 nacidos a termino, y 10 a pre-termino), fueron diferenciados a los 8 meses de edad, basandose en su habilidad demostrada para movimientos finos o en su torpeza. Se realizaron comparaciones de la duracion y frequencia de los comportamientos observados corrientemente (p. ej. alcanzar objetos), exhibidos por los ninos en cada grupo. Los resultados indican que el grupo coordinado realizaba significativamente una mayor exploracion objetal, manipulativa y oral, que el grupo torpe. El analisis multivariado de los comportamientos corrientemente observados, mostro una diferencia de los comportamientos y una tendencia hacia la duracion de estos. Se discuten los resultados en terminos del estilo de cada grupo en la interaccion objetal.
Thermo-elasto-viscoplastic analysis of problems in extension and shear

The problems of extension and shear behavior of structural elements made of carbon steel and subjected to large thermomechanical loads are investigated. The analysis is based on nonlinear geometric and constitutive relations, and is expressed in a rate form. The material constitutive equations are capable of reproducing all nonisothermal, elasto-viscoplastic characteristics. The results of the test problems show that: (1) the formulation can accommodate very large strains and rotations; (2) the model incorporates the simplification associated with rate-insensitive elastic response without losing the ability to model a rate-temperature dependent yield strength and plasticity; and (3) the formulation does not display oscillatory behavior in the stresses for the simple shear problem.