cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Tensor Train Compression Scheme for Remote Volume-surface Integral Equation Interactions

We propose a memory compression scheme for the coupling matrices appearing in volume-surface integral equation formulations. When there is some distance between the surface and the volumetric scatterers, the low-rank properties of the coupling matrix, allow us to reshape it into a set of four-dimensional tensors, which can be heavily compressed with the tensor train decomposition. The associated matrix-vector products can be rapidly performed with the aid of a graphical processing unit. We achieved a compression of more than 8 thousand times with a relative error around 1e – 5, for the calculation of the electromagnetic field generated by a radiofrequency coil inside an object at 1 mm voxel isotropic resolution. In this case, the matrix-vector product could be executed in less than a second.
PokeBNN: A Binary Pursuit of Lightweight Accuracy

Top-1 ImageNet optimization promotes enormous networks that may be impractical in inference settings. Binary neural networks (BNNs) have the potential to significantly lower the compute intensity but existing models suffer from low quality. To overcome this deficiency, we propose PokeConv, a binary convolution block which improves quality of BNNs by techniques such as adding multiple residual paths, and tuning the activation function. We apply it to ResNet-50 and optimize ResNet's initial convolutional layer which is hard to binarize. We name the resulting network family PokeBNN. These techniques are chosen to yield favorable improvements in both top-1 accuracy and the network's cost. In order to enable joint optimization of the cost together with accuracy, we define arithmetic computation effort (ACE), a hardware- and energy-inspired cost metric for quantized and binarized networks. We also identify a need to optimize an under-explored hyper-parameter controlling the binarization gradient approximation. We establish a new, strong state-of-the-art (SOTA) on top-1 accuracy together with commonly-used CPU64 cost, ACE cost and network size metrics. ReActNet-Adam, the previous SOTA in BNNs, achieved a 70.5% top-1 accuracy with 7.9 ACE. A small variant of PokeBNN achieves 70.5% top-1 with 2.6 ACE, more than 3x reduction in cost; a larger PokeBNN achieves 75.6% top-1 with 7.8 ACE, more than 5% improvement in accuracy without increasing the cost. PokeBNN implementation in JAX/Flax and reproduction instructions are open sourced.
Algebra: Chapter 0

Algebra: Chapter 0 is a self-contained introduction to the main topics of algebra, suitable for a first sequence on the subject at the beginning graduate or upper undergraduate level. The primary distinguishing feature of the book, compared to standard textbooks in algebra, is the early introduction of categories, used as a unifying theme in the presentation of the main topics. A second feature consists of an emphasis on homological algebra: basic notions on complexes are presented as soon as modules have been introduced, and an extensive last chapter on homological algebra can form the basis for a follow-up introductory course on the subject. Approximately 1,000 exercises both provide adequate practice to consolidate the understanding of the main body of the text and offer the opportunity to explore many other topics, including applications to number theory and algebraic geometry. This will allow instructors to adapt the textbook to their specific choice of topics and provide the independent reader with a richer exposure to algebra. Many exercises include substantial hints, and navigation of the topics is facilitated by an extensive index and by hundreds of cross-references.
Effect of fiber content on single tow SiC minicomposite mechanical and damage properties using acoustic emission

Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are attractive materials for use in temperature-critical aerospace and nuclear applications. Relating the mechanical behavior and damage mechanisms of simple ceramic matrix minicomposites to health-monitoring techniques helps to understand the fundamentals of the mechanical response of CMCs. In this study, single-tow minicomposites with a silicon carbide (SiC) matrix deposited by chemical vapor infiltration, a boron nitride or a carbon interphase, and various types of SiC fibers were tested in tension at room temperature. Modal acoustic emission (AE) was used to determine the dependence of matrix cracking on the applied load. Crack density evolution was obtained using two AE-based methods: the established method using cumulative energy of AE events and a new technique based on speed of sound measurements.
A Comprehensive Blueprint for a Crucial Service: Florida's New Supervised Visitation Strategy

Supervised visitation is contact between a noncustodial parent and his/her child that is overseen by a trained third party in a controlled environment. Communities throughout the country have increasingly turned to supervised visitation programs as a means of protecting vulnerable family members in complex child custody litigation. Notwithstanding their popularity, however, these programs largely constitute a patchwork of approaches rather than a coherent system. For that reason, Florida’s recent adoption of a comprehensive set of uniform state standards and accompanying measures to implement them represent a major advance in efforts to maximize the benefits of supervised visitation. This article provides an overview of the history, guiding principles, and salient operational details of Florida’s new standards. If successful, Florida’s experiment can serve as a template for other states also seeking to safeguard the welfare of children and other vulnerable members of troubled families.
Pre-procedural imaging of aortic root orientation and dimensions: comparison between X-ray angiographic planar imaging and 3-dimensional multidetector row computed tomography.

Objectives We sought to examine whether contrast-enhanced multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) allows prediction of X-ray angiographic planes for the root angiogram in the context of transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Background Understanding of aortic root orientation relative to the body axis is critical for precise positioning of the stent/valve during transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Methods Forty patients with severe aortic stenosis underwent conventional X-ray angiography and contrast-enhanced MDCT of the aortic root. Oblique MDCT images of the aortic root, corresponding to X-ray angiographic left anterior oblique (LA)/right anterior oblique (RAO) projections, were created. The cranial/caudal angulation was compared between angiographic and reformatted MDCT images. In addition, root diameter measurements were compared. Results The cranial angulation in the LAO X-ray angiograms (mean LAO: 39± 8, n = 38) and matched MDCT images were not significantly different (cranial: 25 ± 7 vs. 23 ± 8; p = 0.214). There was a small but significant difference between the caudal angulation in the RAO angiogram (mean RAO: 25 ± 5, n = 40) and matched CT images (caudal: 21 ± 9 vs. 29 ± 10; p = 0.002). The annulus diameter in the LAO projection was not significantly different between X-ray angiography and contrast-enhanced MDCT (2.3 ± 0.3 vs. 2.4 ± 0.3; p = 0.052), whereas there was a small but significant difference in the annulus diameter in RAO projections between angiography and MDCT (2.4 ± 0.3 vs. 2.2 ± 0.3; p = 0.029). Conclusions Pre-procedural contrast-enhanced MDCT imaging of the aortic root allows prediction of X-ray angiographic planes and contributes to planning of the transcatheter aortic valve implantation.
Synergism in binary mixture of surfactants 11. Mixtures containing mono- and disulfonated alkyl- and dialkyldiphenylethers

Abstract Interaction and synergism at 25°C of some alkyl- and dialkyldiphenylether mono- and disulfonates with a second surfactant containing a single hydrophilic and a single hydrophobic group (a nonionic, a betaine, or an amine oxide type of surfactant) in aqueous solutions containing swamping amounts of NaCl were studied by calculating interaction (β) parameters from surface tension-concentration data. Attractive interaction in mixed monolayers at the aqueous solution/water interface increased in the order: monoalkyl monosulfonate (MAMS)
Quality of service-based multi-domain routing under multiple quality of service metrics

Applications such as voice and video require network paths that satisfy several different quality of service (QoS) metrics, such as delay, jitter, packet loss rate and availability. The calculation of paths under multiple QoS metrics, such as the above four metrics, is a difficult problem since these metrics are in general incompatible. The authors propose a simple method for combining the above four QoS metrics into a single composite QoS metric which can be used as a link cost in Dijkstra's algorithm in order to calculate a path. The authors evaluated the proposed method in a multi-domain routing environment where domain reachability information is available through a service oriented architecture paradigm, and they show that it outperforms two commonly used methods. The results are also applicable to routing within a single domain.
Who Can Solve 2x=1? - An Analysis of Cognitive Load Related to Learning Linear Equation Solving

Using 2x 1 as an example, we discuss the cognitive load related to learning linear equation solving. In the framework of the Cognitive Load Theory we consider especially the intrinsic cognitive load needed in arithmetical, geometrical and real analytical approach to linear equation solving. This will be done e.g. from the point of view of the conceptual and procedural knowledge of mathematics and the APOS Theory. Basing on our observations, in the end of the paper we design a setting for teaching linear equation solving.
Development and Demonstration of a Computational Tool for the Analysis of Particle Vitiation Effects in Hypersonic Propulsion Test Facilities

In order to improve the understanding of particle vitiation effects in hypersonic propulsion test facilities, a quasi-one dimensional numerical tool was developed to efficiently model reacting particle-gas flows over a wide range of conditions. Features of this code include gas-phase finite-rate kinetics, a global porous-particle combustion model, mass, momentum and energy interactions between phases, and subsonic and supersonic particle drag and heat transfer models. The basic capabilities of this tool were validated against available data or other validated codes. To demonstrate the capabilities of the code a series of computations were performed for a model hypersonic propulsion test facility and scramjet. Parameters studied were simulated flight Mach number, particle size, particle mass fraction and particle material.
Flying Over Uncharted Territory

The Meme Machine . Susan Blackmore. Oxford University Press, New York, 1999. 286 pp. $25, £18.99. ISBN 0-19-850365-2. Psychologist Susan Blackmore attempts to develop Richard Dawkins's concept of memes into a full-fledged theory of cultural evolution.
Guided tissue regeneration. Absorbable barriers

Over the past 15 years, techniques aimed at regeneration of lost periodontal tissue have become widely used and accepted in clinical practice. Among these techniques are those which use the principles of guided tissue regeneration (GTR), wherein barriers (i.e., membranes) are used to control cell and tissue repopulation of the periodontal wound. A variety of non-absorbable and absorbable barriers have been developed and used for this purpose, with a trend in recent years toward increased use of absorbable GTR materials. This article describes the evolution of absorbable barrier materials and overview materials available for clinical use today. In addition, advantages and disadvantages of these materials are discussed, as well as possible new developments in barrier-based GTR therapy.
Transformations and Software Modeling Languages: Automating Transformations in UML

This paper investigates the role of transformations in the Unified Modeling Language, specifically UML class diagrams with OCL constraints. To date, the use of transformations in software modeling and design has not been fully explored. A framework for expressing transformations is presented along with concrete examples that, for example, infer new inheritance links, or transform constraints. In particular, a technique for checking that two UML class diagrams are refactorings of each other is described.
An investigation of effective and efficient multilingual information access to digital collections

This paper presents the background, research design, and current progress of a new project on exploring the application of various machine translation strategies working toward multilingual information access for digital collections.
Microbiology of Ventilator–Associated Pneumonia Compared With That of Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia

Objective Nosocomial pneumonia is the leading cause of mortality attributed to nosocomial infection. Appropriate empirical therapy has been associated with improved survival, but data are limited regarding the etiologic agents of hospital-acquired pneumonia in nonventilated patients (HAP). This evaluation assessed whether the currently recommended empirical therapy is appropriate for both ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and HAP by evaluating the infecting flora. Design Prospectively collected hospitalwide surveillance data was obtained by infection control professionals using standard Centers for Disease Control and Prevention definitions. Setting A tertiary care academic hospital. Patients All patients admitted from 2000 through 2003. Results A total of 588 episodes of pneumonia were reported in 556 patients: 327 episodes of VAP in 309 patients, and 261 episodes of HAP in 247 patients. The infecting flora in ventilated patients included gram-positive cocci (32.0% [oxacillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus {OSSA}, 9.25%; oxacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus {ORSA}, 17.75%]), gram-negative bacilli (59.0% (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 17.50%; Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, 6.75%; Acinetobacter species, 7.75%), and miscellaneous pathogens (9.0%). The infecting flora in nonventilated patients included gram-positive cocci (42.59% [OSSA, 13.33%; ORSA, 20.37%]), gram-negative bacilli (39.63% [P. aeruginosa, 9.26%; S. maltophilia, 1.11%; Acinetobacter species, 3.33%), and miscellaneous pathogens (17.78%). Conclusions Our data demonstrated that patients with HAP, compared with those with VAP, had a similar frequency of infection with ORSA but less commonly had infections due to P. aeruginosa, Acinetobacter species, and S. maltophilia. However, the overall frequency of infection with these pathogens was sufficiently high to warrant the use of empirical therapy likely to be active against them. Our data supports using the currently recommended empirical therapy for both HAP and VAP.
Establishment of Sweet Birch on Surface Mine Spoil as Influenced by Mycorrhizal Inoculation and Fertility

Induced mycorrhization of sweet birch (Betula lenta L.) by Pisolithus tinctorius (Pers.) Coker & Couch, as influenced by substrate fertility, was evaluated for its effects on seedling growth and physiology. Following a brief period in seed flats, seedlings were transplanted to mine spoil where they resided for 30 months, and three nutrition regimes were imposed throughout the study by application of differing nutrient solution concentrations. High fertility suppressed mycorrhizal formation by P. tinctorius but promoted that of other mycobionts. Pisolithus mycorrhization induced substantial aboveground and belowground growth as indicated by dimensions and mass for the former and mass and length for the latter but favoring root over shoot growth overall. Furthermore, these mycorrhizae were frequently able to compensate for the growth stimulation of higher nutrient additions. Measurements of xylem pressure potential and soil water potential indicated that water uptake was enhanced by P. tinctorius during simulated drought episodes of two durations and in subsequent recovery periods. Inoculated seedlings had higher foliar concentrations of critical nutrients, especially N, and lower concentrations of potentially phytotoxic metallic elements, particularly Mn, than uninoculated seedlings, although the latter response was absent in high fertility. Spoil analyses clearly revealed the influence of the nutrition regimes but also the effects of seedling uptake on substrate chemistry, and reinforced the findings of the foliar analysis concerning suppression of metal uptake by P. tinctorius. Collectively, these results suggest that P. tinctorius can provide sweet birch an array of physiological benefits that will permit this tree species to flourish on harsh substrates such as surface mine spoils without heavy application of chemical fertilizers.
Production and accent affect memory

In three experiments, we examined the effects of accents and production on free recall and yes/no recognition memory. In the study phase, native English participants heard English words pronounced by a speaker with an accent that is highly familiar to the participant (American English) or with a less familiar accent (Dutch). Participants had to either say aloud (produce) the word that they heard in their natural pronunciation (Exp. 1a) or imitate the original speaker (Exp. 1b) or simply listen to the word. In all experiments, in both recall and recognition, produced words and words spoken in an unfamiliar accent were more likely to be recalled and more likely to be recognized, than words that were listened to or words spoken in a more familiar accent. In recognition but not in recall, listening to words spoken in an unfamiliar accent improved memory more than listening to words spoken in a familiar accent. Results suggest that listening allows the acoustic-phonetic details of a speaker to be retained in memory, but that production attenuates details about the original speaker’s pronunciation. Finally, the benefit of production for memory does not differ whether one produces in one’s natural accent or imitates that of the speaker.
Synthesis of N,N-dimethyl-2-(2-amino-4-[18F]fluorophenylthio)benzylamine as a serotonin transporter imaging agent

Two 403U76 analogs, N,N-dimethyl-2-(2-nitro-4-bromophenylthio)benzylamine (4) and N,N-dimethyl-2-(2,4-dinitrophenylthio)benzylamine (8) were prepared in multi-steps synthesis as precursors for the synthesis of a new serotonin transporter imaging agent, N,N-dimethyl-2-(2-amino-4-[18F]fluorophenylthio)benzylamine (12a). Reaction of 2,5-dibromonitrobenzene (1) with 2-thio-N,N-dimethylbenzamide gave N N-dimethyl-2-(2-nitro-4-bromophenylthio)benzamide (3). N,N-Dimethyl-2-(2,4-dinitrophenylthio)benzamide (6) was synthesized similarly from the reaction of 2-bromo-1,5-dinitrobenzene (2) with 2-thio-N,N-dimethylbenzamide. Reduction of 3 and 6 with BH(3)/THF gave benzylamines 4 and 8 along with their amine boranes 5 and 7. Nucleophilic substitution of 4 or 8 with K[18F]/Kryptofix 2.2.2 in DMSO at 120 degrees C followed by reduction with NaBH(4)- Cu(OAc)(2) in EtOH at 78 degrees C and purification with HPLC gave compound 12a in approximately 5-10% yield in a synthesis time of 150min from EOB. A preliminary biodistribution study in rats showed that the uptake of compound 12a in rat brain was high (approximately 1%/g) and the ratio of the uptake of compound 12a in hypothalamus (a serotonin transporter-rich area) and cerebellum (a serotonin-transporter-devoid area) was 6/1 at 1h post-injection. These results suggest that compound 12a may be a potential new serotonin transporter PET imaging agent.
Development of an automated procedure for fluorescent DNA sequencing

We describe here the development of a procedure for complete automation of the dideoxynucleotide DNA sequencing chemistry using fluorescent dye-labeled oligonucleotide primers. This procedure combines rapid preparation of template DNA using a modification of the polymerase chain reaction, automation of the DNA sequencing reactions using a robotic laboratory workstation, and subsequent analysis of the fluorescent-labeled reaction products on a commercial automated fluorescent sequencer. Using this procedure, we were able to produce sufficient quantities of template DNA directly from bacterial colonies or bacteriophage plaques, perform the DNA sequencing reactions on these templates, and load the reaction products on the fluorescent DNA sequencer in a single work day. This scheme for automation of the fluorescent DNA sequencing method allows the fluorescent sequencer to be run at its full capacity every day and eliminates much of the labor required to obtain a high level of data output. Currently, we are able to perform and analyze 16 fluorescent-labeled reactions every day, with an average output of over 7000 bp per sequencer run.
Ta/polyimide adhesion durability

The adhesion durability of Ta to plasma-modified polyimide surfaces has been investigated under thermal exposure. The failure mechanism was correlated with Auger analysis. Resistance to oxidation at the Ta/polyimide interface was found necessary to obtain a durable metal/polymer adhesion strength.
Regional and whole-body markers of nitric oxide production following hyperemic stimuli

The measurement of nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability is of great clinical interest in the assessment of vascular health. However, NO is rapidly oxidized to form nitrite and nitrate and thus its direct detection in biological systems is difficult. Venous plasma nitrite (nM concentrations) has been shown to be a marker of forearm NO production following pharmacological stimulation of the endothelium utilizing acetylcholine (Ach). In the present study, we demonstrate, within 15 apparently healthy subjects (34.1 ± 7.3 years), that reactive hyperemia of the forearm, a physiological endothelial stimulus, results in a 52.5% increase in mean plasma nitrite concentrations (415 ± 64.0 to 634 ± 57.1 nM, P = 0.015). However, plasma nitrite is readily oxidized to nitrate within plasma, and thus its utility as a marker of NO production within the clinical setting may be limited. Alternatively, NOx (predominantly nitrate) is relatively stable in plasma (μM concentrations), but is produced by sources other than the vasculature and has been shown to be unsuitable as a measure of localized NO production. We reasoned that the principle source of NOx generation during exercise is NO production and thus have examined the change in NOx following treadmill exercise stress. In this study, 12 apparently healthy subjects showed an increase (from baseline) in venous NOx at peak effort and during recovery (12 ± 9.1 and 17 ± 15.3 μM respectively, P < 0.05). In contrast, 10 subjects with cardiovascular disease showed no significant increases. Additionally, a correlation between VO2peak and the change in circulating NOx (r2 = 0.4585, P ≤ 0.01) indicated the subjects who could exercise hardest also produced the most NO.
Selection of samples used to derive the prediction equation for estimating protein content by Orange-G dye-binding procedures.

Abstract Protein determinations from Orange-G dye by two spectrophotometers (Bausch and Lomb Type 33-29-40, Beckman Model DB) and nitrogen by micro-Kjeldahl were available on 1,378 monthly test-day samples of milk. These samples were collected for 20 months. The objective was to determine the best procedure for obtaining samples to estimate prediction equations for each month when micro-Kjeldahl determinations are not available on all milk samples. One sampling procedure involved the selection of six samples for each month completely at random, while the other involved dividing the data into high, middle, and low thirds according to their dye-binding readings and selecting two observations from each third for each month. Considerable variability was present in the magnitude of the correlations between the Kjeldahl and dye-binding estimates of per cent protein by both systems of sampling, indicating that six observations for each month were not sufficient to establish the monthly prediction equations.
Convective heat transfer in periodic wavy passages

The rates of heat transfer for flow through a periodic array of wavy passages are studied with an accurate numerical scheme. The flow was observed to be steady until Re around 180 after which self-sustained oscillatory flow was observed. The self-sustained oscillations lead to the destabilization of laminar thermal boundary layers, replenish the near-wall fluid with the fluid in the core region, and thus provide a natural mechanism of heat and mass transfer enhancement. In the steady-flow regime, the average Nusselt numbers for the wavy wall channel were only slightly larger than those for a parallel-plate channel. On the other hand, in the transitional-flow regime, the enhancement of heat transfer was about a factor of 2.5. Friction factors for the wavy channel were about twice those for the parallel-plate channel in the steady-flow region, and remained almost constant in the transitional regime.
Spherically symmetric random walks. I. Representation in terms of orthogonal polynomials

It is shown that, in general, a connection exists between orthogonal polynomials and semibounded random walks. This connection allows one to view a random walk as taking place on the set of integers that index the orthogonal polynomials. An illustration is provided by the case of spherically symmetric random walks. The correspondence between orthogonal polynomials and random walks enables one to express random-walk probabilities as weighted inner products of the polynomials. This correspondence is exploited to construct and analyze spherically symmetric random walks in D-dimensional space, where D is not restricted to be an integer. Such random walks can be described in terms of Gegenbauer (ultraspherical) polynomials. For example, Legendre polynomials can be used to represent the special case of two-dimensional spherically symmetric random walks. The weighted inner-product representation is used to calculate exact closed-form spatial and temporal moments of the probability distribution associated with the random walk. The polynomial representation of spherically symmetric random walks is then used to calculate the two-point Green's function for a rotationally symmetric free scalar quantum field theory. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Dynamic and Static Grain Growth During the Superplastic Deformation of 3Y-TZP

The present study has sought to elucidate the mechanism of dynamic grain growth, using 3Y-TZP as a model material due to its slow static grain growth. In an attempt to show that dynamic grain growth is a phenomenon intimately related to the mechanism of superplasticity, the results of the present study have been compared with results from a number of other studies on a variety of different materials, both metal and ceramic. A companion paper will subsequently describe a model -- derived from the present work -- which can suitably explain the empirical connection between dynamic grain growth and superplasticity.
Fluoro-alcohol materials with tailored interfacial properties for immersion lithography

Immersion lithography has placed a number of additional performance criteria on already stressed resist materials. Much work over the past few years has shown that controlling the water-resist interface is critical to enabling high scan rates (i.e. throughput) while minimizing film pulling and PAG extraction (i.e. defectivity). Protective topcoat polymers were developed to control the aforementioned interfacial properties and emerged as key enablers of 193 nm immersion lithography. Achieving the delicate balance between the low surface energies required for high water contact angles (generally achieved via the incorporation of fluorinated groups) and the base solubility required for topcoat removal is challenging. More recently, additional strategies using fluoropolymer materials to control the water-resist interface have been developed to afford topcoat-free resist systems. In our explorations of fluoroalcohol-based topcoat materials, we have discovered a number of structure-property relationships of which advantage can be taken to tailor the interfacial properties of these fluorinated materials. This paper will address the effect of structure on immersion specific properties such as water contact angle, aqueous base contact angle, and dissolution rate.
CRLB for the localization error in the presence of fading

Localization accuracy is crucial in sensor networks. A wireless sensor network (WSN) with M anchors and one node is considered in this paper. The estimation is based on time of arrival (TOA) in the presence of fading channels. The Cramer-Rao lower bound (CRLB) for localization error in the presence of fading is derived under different scenarios. Firstly, fading coefficients are considered as unknown random parameters with a prior distribution. The ML estimator for this case is also derived. If the distribution of fading is unknown to the estimator then the modified CRLB (MCRLB) is applied and shown to be equal to the CRLB in the absence of fading. This is used to conclude that fading always deteriorates the CRLB in localization. It is shown that there is a loss of about 5dB in CRLB due to Rayleigh fading.
Automatic detection of rotational centers using GPU from projection data for micro-tomography in synchrotron radiation

Determination of the rotation axis position for tomographic projection images is critical to perform an accurate reconstruction. Rotational centers in micro-tomography may shift by several microns after the initial calibration due to various factors such as temperature variation, sample system stability and sample loading procedures. Automatic detection of rotational centers after data acquisition is therefore crucial for accurate and efficient reconstructions, and it is commonly implemented at various synchrotron facilities. We propose to implement a reliable cross correlation method on the projections of 0 and 180 degree to automatically re-align the rotation axis at data collection time. For this purpose, several issues, such as the flat-field correction for the imaging system and the irregular data near projection boundaries, are handled to increase the stability achieving subpixel alignments. The method is shown from experimental results to be accurate, efficient and stable. The results from automatic detections are mostly within one pixel difference from manual/operator detection results. Following the data collection we developed an automatic sub-pixel rotational centering method. Intermediate results from this final process are generated for user inspection. The proposed method is able to detect rotational center shifts within 7 seconds for high-resolution projections of size 2048×2048. It is shown to be stable for static samples in complicated cases. GPU is utilized to fasten the cross correlation computation in the space domain, which achieves about 10 times speedup. The proposed method fits seamlessly into the current framework of beamline 2-BM at the Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory. It may save 5 minutes for partial reconstructions and 5-10 minutes for manual detections without sacrificing accuracy.
High-resolution imaging of domain walls under the influence of spin currents

Spin-polarized scanning electron microscopy (spin-SEM, or SEMPA) is used to image the magnetic domain walls in nanoscale elements with a lateral resolution of 20 nm. Here it is illustrated how geometry and external excitation by spin currents influence and modify the domain wall structure.
The Choice Calculus: A Representation for Software Variation

Many areas of computer science are concerned with some form of variation in software---from managing changes to software over time to supporting families of related artifacts. We present the choice calculus, a fundamental representation for software variation that can serve as a common language of discourse for variation research, filling a role similar to the lambda calculus in programming language research. We also develop an associated theory of software variation, including sound transformations of variation artifacts, the definition of strategic normal forms, and a design theory for variation structures, which will support the development of better algorithms and tools.
Chiral Symmetry Breaking in Stirred Crystallization of 1,1‘-Binaphthyl Melt

As a supercooled melt at 150 °C, the chiral compound 1,1‘-binaphthyl racemizes rapidly. The melt solidifies as a conglomerate of crystals, each consisting exclusively of either R-(−)- or S-(+)-enantiomer. We find that crystallization performed with a 2.00 g sample with constant stirring produces a large enantiomeric excess (mean 77%) in almost every crystallization. The predominance of R-(−) or S-(+) was random. Unstirred 2.00 g samples of binaphthyl produce a much lower enantiomeric excess (mean 20%) with optical activity centered around zero similar to an earlier report.1 Thus, chiral symmetry breaking can be realized in crystallization from a melt by the mere act of stirring, as it can be in crystallization from a solution.
HOW MANAGEMENT USERS VIEW INFORMATION SYSTEMS

The literature of management information systems suggests that substantial discord exists between management users and systems personnel. This paper describes the current attitudes of managers toward information systems and computers as reflected in seventy-five carefully structured interviews with managers from ten major companies. The author concludes that management user attitudes are quite favorable and do not reflect the predicted discord. In fact, the author believes that one of the major systems implementation problems of the future may be apathy rather than antipathy. The data collection was structured to indicate differences in attitudes on the part of users based on organizational level, functional area of work, type of activity, and type of environment.
Impaired expansion and multipotentiality of adult stromal cells in a rat chronic alcohol abuse model

Abstract It is well established that bone maintenance and healing is compromised in alcoholics. Adult bone marrow–derived stromal cells (BMSCs) and adipose tissue–derived stromal cells (ASCs) likely contribute to bone homeostasis and formation. Direct and indirect alcohol exposure inhibits osteoprogenitor cell function through a variety of proposed mechanisms. The goal of this study was to characterize the effects of chronic alcohol ingestion on the native number and in vitro growth characteristics and multipotentiality of adult BMSCs and ASCs in a rat model. Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats received a liquid diet containing 36% ethanol or an isocaloric substitution of dextramaltose (control). After 4, 8, or 12 weeks of the diet, ASCs were harvested from epididymal adipose tissue and BMSCs from femoral and tibial bone marrow. Cell doublings (CDs) per day and doubling times (DTs) were determined for primary cells (P0) and cell passages 1 through 6 (P1–P6). Fibroblastic (CFU-F), adipogenic (CFU-Ad), and osteogenic (CFU-Ob) colony-forming unit (CFU) frequencies were assessed for P0, P3, and P6. The CDs and DTs were lower and higher, respectively, for ASCs and BMSCs harvested from ethanol versus control rats at all time points. The CFU-F, CFU-Ad, and CFU-Ob were significantly higher in ASCs harvested from control versus ethanol rats for P0, P3, and P6 at all times. Both CFU-Ad and CFU-Ob were significantly higher in P0 BMSCs harvested from control versus ethanol rats after 12 weeks of the diet. The CFU-Ob for P3 BMSCs from control rats was significantly higher than those from ethanol rats after 8 and 12 weeks on the diet. All three CFU frequencies in ASCs from ethanol rats tended to decrease with increasing diet duration. The ASC cell and colony morphology was different between control and ethanol cohorts in culture. These results emphasize the significant detrimental effects of chronic alcohol ingestion on the in vitro expansion and multipotentiality of adult mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Maintenance of the effects through multiple cell passages in vitro suggests cells may be permanently compromised.
Theory of High-Force DNA Stretching and Overstretching

Single-molecule experiments on single- and double-stranded DNA have sparked a renewed interest in the force versus extension of polymers. The extensible freely jointed chain (FJC) model is frequently invoked to explain the observed behavior of single-stranded DNA, but this model does not satisfactorily describe recent high-force stretching data. We instead propose a model (the discrete persistent chain) that borrows features from both the FJC and the wormlike chain, and show that it resembles the data more closely. We find that most of the high-force behavior previously attributed to stretch elasticity is really a feature of the corrected entropic elasticity; the true stretch compliance of single-stranded DNA is several times smaller than that found by previous authors. Next we elaborate our model to allow coexistence of two conformational states of DNA, each with its own stretch and bend elastic constants. Our model is computationally simple and gives an excellent fit through the entire overstretching transition of nicked, double-stranded DNA. The fit gives the first value for the bend stiffness of the overstretched state. In particular, we find the effective bend stiffness for DNA in this state to be about 12 nm k(B)T, a value quite different from either the B-form or single-stranded DNA.
Visible and near-infrared excited-state dynamics of single-walled carbon nanotubes

Excited-state lifetimes of isolated single-walled semiconducting carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been measured for the first time; these excited states, observed over the 400- to 1800-nm spectral domain, possess lifetimes that range from several ps to more than 100 ps. Sub-ps to ps decay components are assigned to relaxation in SWNT bundles. Interrogation of the samples with different SWNT mean diameters further confirms the dependence of the excited-state lifetime on roll-up vector. The ratio of fast and slow decaying component contributions in the first van Hove band can be viewed as a measure of the bundle content.
Octet dominance in the current-current form of the weak interaction.

It is shown that the $\frac{f}{d}$ ratios of the vector and axial-vector currents play an important role in octet dominance within the current-current theory of weak interactions.
Oscillator strengths in tetrahedral semiconductors

Values of the optical matrix elements are estimated from experimental values of the dielectric constant and the energy of the optical reflectivity peak. The matrix elements of the momentum operator are found independent of polarity, as in studies by Lawaetz and by Cohen. This is found to be consistent with the expectations of the Penn model of the dielectric constant and with linear-combination-of-atomic-orbitals models. It is also found to differ from but not nullify the assumptions of the Phillips-Van Vechten ionicity model. The matrix elements of momentum also vary significantly with bond length (or metallicity), but in such a way that both the bond-orbital and the pseudopotential descriptions simultaneously retain essential validity. Significant corrections to the $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ values of the bond-orbital model for the heavier elements are suggested by the study.
Timeliness and access to healthcare services via telemedicine for adolescents in state correctional facilities.

Purpose The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a telemedicine program in improving timeliness of and access to healthcare services in adolescent correctional facilities. Method This study is a pre/post quasi-experimental design comparing time to treatment and healthcare use in the year preceding and the 2 years after the implementation of a telemedicine program in four facilities housing adolescents from 12 to19. Timeliness of care is measured by time from referral to date of service (for behavioral healthcare only). Access to care is measured by use of outpatient care, emergency department (ED) visits, and inpatient visits. Results Two of the four state correctional facilities had a significant decrease (24%) in time from referral to treatment after the implementation of the telemedicine intervention. The facilities not showing significant improvements in timeliness experienced difficulty implementing the telemedicine program. The telemedicine program was also associated with significant improvements in access to care. Outpatient visits increased by 40% in the 2 years after implementation of telemedicine. For each 1% increase in telemedicine usage, outpatient visits increased by 1%, whereas emergency room visits decreased by 7%. Conclusions Telemedicine can have a positive impact on timeliness of and access to care for youth in correctional facilities.
Why the Low Returns to Beta and Other Forms of Risk

High–beta stocks typically fail to outperform low–beta stocks. Investors have heterogeneous opinions about value, and the difference between the return expected by the marginal investor and by the typical investor increases with the divergence of opinion. The author suggests that the divergence of opinion diminishes following an initial public offering, producing long–run underperformance of such offerings. Because divergence of opinion, uncertainty, and beta risk are correlated, according to the author, this causes an uncertainty–induced bias that increases with beta, producing a relatively flat security market line, flatter than the risk–return relationship anticipated by the typical investor. An implication of this theory is that investors can improve their return relative to risk by exploiting the flatness of the security market line.
Translational Regulatory Mechanisms in Persistent Forms of Synaptic Plasticity

Memory and synaptic plasticity exhibit distinct temporal phases, with long-lasting forms distinguished by their dependence on macromolecular synthesis. Prevailing models for the molecular mechanisms underlying long-lasting synaptic plasticity have largely focused on transcriptional regulation. However, a growing body of evidence now supports a crucial role for neuronal activity-dependent mRNA translation, which may occur in dendrites for a subset of neuronal mRNAs. Recent work has begun to define the signaling mechanisms coupling synaptic activation to the protein synthesis machinery. The ERK and mTOR signaling pathways have been shown to regulate the activity of the general translational machinery, while the translation of particular classes of mRNAs is additionally controlled by gene-specific mechanisms. Rapid enhancement of the synthesis of a diverse array of neuronal proteins through such mechanisms provides the components necessary for persistent forms of LTP and LTD. These findings have important implications for the synapse specificity and associativity of protein synthesis-dependent changes in synaptic strength.
Thermal postbuckling of thin-walled composite stiffeners

A study is made of the thermal postbuckling response of composite stiffeners subjected to prescribed edge displacement and a temperature rise. The flanges and web of the stiffeners are modeled by using two-dimensional plate finite elements. A mixed formulation is used with the fundamental unknowns consisting of the generalized displacements and the stress resultants of the plate. A reduction method is used in conjunction with mixed finite element models for determining the postbuckling response of the stiffeners. Sensitivity derivatives are evaluated and used to study the effects of variations in the different lamination and material parameters of the stiffeners on their postbuckling response characteristics. Numerical studies are presented for anisotropic stiffeners with Zee and channel sections.
Electrospray differential mobility analysis for nanoscale medicinal and pharmaceutical applications

Abstract Nanoscale characterization tools hold the potential to overcome long-standing medicinal and pharmaceutical challenges. For example, electrospray differential mobility analysis (ES-DMA) is an emerging tool that rapidly provides label-free multimodal size distributions for proteins and particles from ~ 1 nm to From the Clinical Editor Electrospray differential mobility analysis is an emerging nanotechnology-based tool with potential clinical utility in the detection and quantification of lipoproteins, glycoproteins, viruses, amyloids, bacterial infections. Its contribution to treatment strategies and pharmaceutical production is also discussed in this comprehensive review.
Using multiple objective linear programming to evaluate multi-participant agroforestry systems

Multiple objective linear programming is used to evaluate a simulated two-participant maize/cassava/leucaena/teak agroforestry system. Examples using two different price ratios are presented along with possible methods to optimize the system with regard to the interests of the two profit seeking participants. A third example examines possible solutions to a system involving a profit seeking forester and a non-monetary subsistence farmer.
Mechanistic aspects of fatigue crack growth behavior in resin based dental restorative composites

Abstract Objective To test the hypothesis that a commercial microhybrid resin based composite (Filtek™ Z250) has superior fatigue resistance to a nanofill composite (Filtek™ Supreme Plus) and to determine the related micromechanisms involved in the fatigue process. Methods After 60 days of water hydration, the fatigue crack growth resistance of two different resin composites, one microhybrid (Filtek™ Z250) and one nanofill (Filtek™ Supreme Plus), was measured in wet conditions using compact-tension, C(T), specimens at a load ratio of 0.1 and frequency of 2 Hz. Cyclic fatigue behavior was quantified in terms of the fatigue crack growth rate, da/dN, as a function of the stress intensity range, ΔK. Results A sigmoidal da/dN-ΔK curve with three different fatigue crack growth regimes was identified for both composites. In general, fatigue crack growth ranged from ∼10−9 to 10−5 m/cycle over ΔK of 0.54–0.63 MPa√m for the Z250 composite and ΔK of 0.41–0.67 MPa√m for the Supreme Plus composite. The Supreme Plus composite showed a lower fatigue threshold, ΔKth, by ∼0.13 MPa√m compared to the Z250 composite, while also showing a plateau in the fatigue crack growth curve that is likely related to environmental attack. SEM observations of the fatigue crack paths and fracture surfaces revealed an interparticle crack path and extrinsic toughening mechanisms of crack deflection and crack bridging. No fatigue degradation of reinforcing particles or clusters was found, but cluster–matrix debonding was evident in the Supreme Plus composite, also indicative of environmental attack due to water. Significance This study increases the understanding of both the fatigue behavior and the micromechanisms of fatigue in resin based dental composites.
Vortex simulation of an inviscid shear layer

The accuracy of the vortex-blob method was tested by simulating a free-shear-layer instability, Kirchhoff's elliptical vortex, and a circular vortex. The main numerical parameters in the vortex-blob method are the density of the vortices, and the distribution of vorticity within each vortex core. The growth rate of a periodic unstable mode of the shear layer was calculated numerically and compared with the exact result. The error is only a few percent for about 10 rows of vortex blobs. The error is reduced by decreasing the spacing between vortices and, correspondingly, the core size. In the simulation of the motion of the elliptical vortex, the rotation of the boundary, without change of shape, and the circular particle paths of the vortical fluid were well simulated. For the circular vortex, optimum sets of parameters were obtained by comparing them with the exact velocity. The results are consistent with convergence theories of the vortex-blob method. In particular, second-order convergence is observed with a Gaussian core from velocity calculation.