cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accuracy Limitations on CCN Measurements with Thermal Gradient Diffusion Chambers

Abstract Limitations on the accuracy of CCN counts obtained with thermal gradient diffusion cloud chambers (TGDCC) are discussed. Evidence presented here regarding 1) the absence of a well-defined plateau when the number of CCN in the TGDCC are plotted as a function of time, 2) the discrepancy between CCN counts obtained by instantaneous photography and the time-exposure method, and 3) the difficulty in reaching a sufficiently small minimum detectable size throughout the range of supersaturations, points to the possibility of considerable error in instantaneous CCN counts. The time-exposure method is demonstrated as a means of eliminating the problems associated with the instantaneous method and of extending the measurements to lower supersaturations.
Photoswitchable NHC-promoted ring-opening polymerizations

The UV-induced photocyclization of a dithienylethene-annulated N-heterocyclic carbene precatalyst enabled photoswitchable ring-opening polymerizations of e-caprolactone and δ-valerolactone. The polymerizations proceeded efficiently in ambient light, however UV irradiation attenuated the reaction rate (kamb/kUV = 59). Subsequent visible light exposure reversed the photocyclization and restored catalytic activity.
Optimal inventory policy with multiple set-up costs

We consider a deterministic, single product, discrete review, finite time horizon inventory problem, called the multiple set-up cost problem. The holding cost in each period is a nondecreasing and sometimes concave function. The distinguishing feature of our model is the ordering cost function which is neither concave nor convex. The ordering cost is such that a natural interpretation of it consists in assuming that the order in period i is delivered in trucks with capacity Mi and that the cost of delivery for each truck is a nondecreasing concave function of the amount delivered by that truck. We establish the existence of an optimal production schedule such that for each period 1 there are no partially filled trucks in period i if the inventory entering period i is positive and 2 the inventory at the end of period i is less than Mi. Exploiting this information, an efficient algorithm is developed. In part II, we study the stationary, infinite horizon version of the multiple set-up cost problem. We single out a countable set S of schedules, each of which possess a periodic property in addition to properties 1 and 2 above, and we show that S contains a schedule with minimal cost per unit time. Moreover, if the ratio of demand per period to Mi is rational, then S contains a schedule with minimal discounted cost.
Pleural space infections after image-guided percutaneous drainage of infected intraabdominal fluid collections: a retrospective single institution analysis

Percutaneous drainage of infected intraabdominal fluid collections is preferred over surgical drainage due to lower morbidity and costs. However, it can be a challenging procedure and catheter insertion carries the potential to contaminate the pleural space from the abdomen. This retrospective analysis demonstrates the clinical and radiographic correlation between percutaneous drainage of infected intraabdominal collections and the development of iatrogenic pleural space infections. A retrospective single institution analysis of 550 consecutive percutaneous drainage procedures for intraabdominal fluid collections was performed over 24 months. Patient charts and imaging were reviewed with regard to pleural space infections that were attributed to percutaneous drain placements. Institutional review board approval was obtained for conduct of the study. 6/550 (1.1%) patients developed iatrogenic pleural space infections after percutaneous drainage of intraabdominal fluid collections. All 6 patients presented with respiratory symptoms and required pleural space drainage (either by needle aspiration or chest tube placement), 2 received intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy and 1 patient had to undergo surgical drainage. Pleural effusion cultures revealed same bacteria in both intraabdominal and pleural fluid in 3 (50%) cases. A video with a dynamic radiographic sequence demonstrating the contamination of the pleural space from percutaneous drainage of an infected intraabdominal collection is included. Iatrogenic pleural space infections after percutaneous drainage of intraabdominal fluid collections occur at a low incidence, but the pleural empyema can be progressive requiring prompt chest tube drainage, intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy or even surgery. Expertise in intraabdominal drain placements, awareness and early recognition of this complication is critical to minimize incidence, morbidity and mortality in these patients.
POTENTIAL FOR UTILIZING 11S SOY GLOBULAR PROTEIN TO STUDY TEXTURE FORMATION1

A corn meal based model food system was successfully utilized in experiments designed to measure the influence of protein type on product integrity. The food systems were processed using either a capillary rheometer or an extrusion capillary rheometer to produce the texturized product. The Warner-Bratzler Shear test and the Ottawa texture measuring tests were utilized to indicate product integrity. The purified 11S soy protein produced a product with greater integrity as measured by maximum shear value than an equivalent amount of soy protein isolate from which it was derived.
Stochastic models for prediction of bod and do in streams

Abstract A general stochastic model utilizing the concepts of random differential equations is developed. Formulas for the joint probability distribution of BOD and DO at distance t downstream from a pollution source are derived from the assumptions of the model. Finally, some examples and computations are presented which illustrate the usefulness of the model.
SU-D-19A-04: Parameter Characterization of Electron Beam Monte Carlo Phase Space of TrueBeam Linacs

Purpose: For TrueBeam Monte Carlo simulations, Varian does not distribute linac head geometry and material compositions, instead providing a phase space file (PSF) for the users. The PSF has a finite number of particle histories and can have very large file size, yet still contains inherent statistical noises. The purpose of this study is to characterize the electron beam PSF with parameters. Methods: The PSF is a snapshot of all particles' information at a given plane above jaws including type, energy, position, and directions. This study utilized a preliminary TrueBeam PSF, of which validation against measurement is presented in another study. To characterize the PSF, distributions of energy, position, and direction of all particles are analyzed as piece-wise parameterized functions of radius and polar angle. Subsequently, a pseudo PSF was generated based on this characterization. Validation was assessed by directly comparing the true and pseudo PSFs, and by using both PSFs in the down-stream MC simulations (BEAMnrc/DOSXYZnrc) and comparing dose distributions for 3 applicators at 15 MeV. Statistical uncertainty of 4% was limited by the number of histories in the original PSF. Percent depth dose (PDD) and orthogonal (PRF) profiles at various depths were evaluated. Results: Preliminary results showed thatmore » this PSF parameterization was accurate, with no visible differences between original and pseudo PSFs except at the edge (6 cm off axis), which did not impact dose distributions in phantom. PDD differences were within 1 mm for R{sub 7} {sub 0}, R{sub 5} {sub 0}, R{sub 3} {sub 0}, and R{sub 1} {sub 0}, and PRF field size and penumbras were within 2 mm. Conclusion: A PSF can be successfully characterized by distributions for energy, position, and direction as parameterized functions of radius and polar angles; this facilitates generating sufficient particles at any statistical precision. Analyses for all other electron energies are under way and results will be included in the presentation.« less
Meningococcal conjugate vaccination among adolescents aged 13-17 years, United States, 2007.

Abstract Background An estimated 1000–2000 cases of invasive meningococcal diseases occur annually in the United States. In 2005, a new quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) was approved and, because of supply constraints, was recommended for routine vaccination of some groups of adolescents. In August 2007, vaccination recommendations were expanded for all adolescents 11–18 years. Methods We analyzed data from the 2007 National Immunization Survey-Teen (NIS-Teen), a nationally representative random digit dialed telephone survey. Estimates of MCV4 coverage were assessed from provider-reported vaccination histories. A multivariable logistic regression analysis and predictive marginal model were performed to identify factors independently associated with MCV4 vaccination. Results Provider-reported vaccination histories were available for 2947 adolescents aged 13–17 years with a response rate of 55.9%. Overall, MCV4 coverage was 32.4% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 30.2–34.7%) in 2007. Vaccination coverage was similar among adolescents aged 13–14 years compared to those aged 15–17 years (32.1% vs. 32.6%, respectively). Coverage was 30.6% for non-Hispanic whites, 35.9% for non-Hispanic blacks, and 36.1% for Hispanics; however, these variations were not statistically significant. Characteristics independently associated with a higher likelihood of MCV4 vaccination included having ≥2 physician contacts in the past year, having a well child visit at age 11–12 years, and ever having a doctor recommendation for meningitis vaccination of the adolescent. Conclusions In 2007, MCV4 coverage among 13–17 years old increased 20.7 percentage points from 2006. Achieving high vaccination coverage among adolescents will be challenging. Targeting adolescents with no health insurance and no recent healthcare provider visits may be important to increase coverage.
The phenomenon of conglomerate crystallization. XIX. Clavic dissymmetry in coordination compounds. XVII

[Co(NH3)4(oxalato)]NO3·H2O (1) crystallizes as a conglomerate in space groupP212121 with unit cell constants ofa=7.944(3),b=9.904(11), andc=12.700(2) A;V=999.15 A3;d(calc.;z=4)=1.968 g cm−3. [Co(NH3)4(oxalato)]¦·H2O (2) crystallizes in space groupP22/n with cell constants ofa=7.285(1),b=9.959(3),c=15.410(5) A;β=102.63(2)° andV=1090.98 A3; d(calc;z=4) = 2.192 g cm−3. Data were collected over the ranges of 4°≤2Θ≤70° and 4°≤2Θ≤55°, respectively for compounds1 and2. This resulted in a total of 2515 and 2823 data for the solution and refinement of the structures of compounds1 and2, respectively. When the refinements converged, the finalR(F) andR w (F) values were, respectively, 0.073 and 0.080 for1 and 0.0378 and 0.0353 for2. Since neither data set was sufficiently good to give a sensible set of positions for all of the hydrogens, the stereochemistry of the two cations could only be defined by the positions of the heavy atoms. In the absence of reliable amine hydrogen positions, N(amine)-O(nitrate and oxalate) distances were examined. Close N(amine)-O(nitrate and oxalate) contacts indicate the presence of a network of significant hydrogen bonds in1. The N-O distances for compound2 also show the presence of hydrogen bonding between the amines and the oxalate ligand and water; however, the bonds are not of the same magnitude as the interactions involving the nitrate oxygens in1. Despite the similarity between the cations of1 and2, the Co-N distances in the two do not exhibit the same pattern. In1, the Co-N distances for amines trans to one another are shorter than the Co-N distances for amines trans to oxalate oxygens; this effect is reversed in2.
32P radioisotope therapy for recurrent pilocytic astrocytoma

Abstract 32 P is a pure beta-emitter that has a depth of penetration of 2–3 mm and can be useful in the treatment of cystic lesions. Its effectiveness in the treatment of a selected brain tumor is illustrated here.
Force and shapes of liquid bridges between circular pads

An analytical model is presented relating the shape of an axisymmetric liquid bridge in terms of volume,v, height,h, bounding radius,r, and contact angle, θ, to the residual force,f, resulting from the surface tension at the liquid-vapor interface. The model is based on the assumption that gravity is negligible and the surface of the liquid bridge possesses constant mean curvature. Measurements are made of the height, bounding radius, contact angle and force for known volumes of individual, axisymmetric liquid bridges between parallel plates. Force and height comparisons are made for mercury on aluminum plates, mercury on polysiloxane-coated plates and water on polysiloxane-coated plates in air for dimensionless volumes (v/r3) of 10 and 18. Comparisons with model predictions are also made for mercury bridges spanning a contact angle range between 138 deg and 150 deg. Finally, the shapes of liquid bridges are compared to analytical predictions. The results suggest that the constant mean curvature model, even when gravity is neglected, is an appropriate design tool that can be useful for specifying solder volumes and standoff heights for solder grid array packages.
The association of cerebral palsy with birth asphyxia: a definitional quagmire.

Aim The aim of this study was to investigate whether current literature provides a useful body of evidence reflecting the proportion of cerebral palsy (CP) that is attributable to birth asphyxia. Method We identified 23 studies conducted between 1986 and 2010 that provided data on intrapartum risks of CP. Results The proportion of CP with birth asphyxia as a precursor (case exposure rate) varied from less than 3% to over 50% in the 23 studies reviewed. The studies were heterogeneous in many regards, including the definitions for birth asphyxia and the outcome of CP. Interpretations Current data do not support the belief, widely held in the medical and legal communities, that birth asphyxia can be recognized reliably and specifically, or that much of CP is due to birth asphyxia. The very high case exposure rates linking birth asphyxia to CP can probably be attributed to several factors: the fact that the clinical picture at birth cannot specifically identify birth asphyxia; the definition of CP employed; and confusion of proximal effects – results – with causes. Further research is needed.
Comprehensive analysis of loss of heterozygosity events in glioblastoma using the 100K SNP mapping arrays and comparison with copy number abnormalities defined by BAC array comparative genomic hybridization.

We have undertaken an extensive high-resolution analysis of loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in 30 high grade gliomas using the Affymetrix 100K SNP mapping array. Only 70% of LOH events were accompanied by a copy number loss (CNAloss), and of the other 30%, the distal region of 17p preferentially showed copy number neutral (CNN)-associated LOH. Combined analysis of CNAloss and LOH using MergeLevels analysis software predicts whether the observed losses occurred on a diploid or tetraploid background. In a side-by-side comparison between SNP and bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) arrays, the overall identification of CNAs was similar on both platforms. The resolution provided by the SNP arrays, however, allowed a considerably more accurate definition of breakpoints as well as defining small events within the cancer genomes, which could not be detected on BAC arrays. CNN LOH was only detected by the SNP arrays, as was ploidy prediction. From our analysis, therefore, it is clear that simultaneously defining CNAs and CNN-LOH using the SNP platform provides a higher resolution and more complete analysis of the genetic events that have occurred within tumor cells. Our extensive analysis of SNP array data has also allowed an objective assessment of threshold LOH scores that can accurately predict LOH. This capability has important implications for interpretation of LOH events since they have consistently been used to localize potential tumor suppressor genes within the cancer genome. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Activation of AMP-kinase by policosanol requires peroxisomal metabolism.

Policosanol, a well-defined mixture of very long chain primary alcohols that is available as a nutraceutical product, has been reported to lower blood cholesterol levels. The present studies demonstrate that policosanol promotes the phosphorylation of AMP-kinase and HMG-CoA reductase in hepatoma cells and in mouse liver after intragastric administration, providing a possible means by which policosanol might lower blood cholesterol levels. Treatment of hepatoma cells with policosanol produced a 2.5-fold or greater increase in the phosphorylation of AMP-kinase and HMG-CoA reductase, and increased the phosphorylation of Ca++/calmodulin-dependent kinase kinase (CaMKK), an upstream AMP-kinase kinase. Intragastric administration of policosanol to mice similarly increased the phosphorylation of hepatic HMG-CoA reductase and AMP-kinase by greater than 2-fold. siRNA-mediated suppression of fatty aldehyde dehydrogenase, fatty acyl-CoA synthetase 4, and acyl-CoA acetyltransferase expression in hepatoma cells prevented the phosphorylation of AMP-kinase and HMG-CoA reductase by policosanol, indicating that metabolism of these very long chain alcohols to activated fatty acids is necessary for the suppression of cholesterol synthesis, presumably by increasing cellular AMP levels. Subsequent peroxisomal β-oxidation probably augments this effect.
HIV transmission risk behaviours among HIV-positive persons in serodiscordant relationships.

As many as one in three persons living with HIV-AIDS continue to practise unprotected sexual intercourse and these practices often occur with HIV-negative or unknown HIV serostatus (serodiscordant) partners. The current study examined the rates of HIV transmission risk behaviours in non-regular (e.g. casual) and regular (e.g. steady) serodiscordant relationships. HIV positive men (n = 269) and women (n = 114) responded to measures of demographic characteristics, health and mental health status, and sexual behaviours assessed in partner-by-partner interviews. 257 (67%) participants were sexually active in the preceding three months and 182 (71%) of the sexually active persons had engaged in vaginal or anal intercourse with serodiscordant partners. Comparisons of persons with non-regular (n = 97) and regular (n = 85) serodiscordant partners showed that overall rates of unprotected and protected intercourse were greater with regular partners than non-regular partners. Disclosure of HIV status to regular and non-regular serodiscordant partners did not appear to influence the pattern of results. Mathematical modelling showed that HIV transmission estimates over a one-year horizon were significantly greater for male regular partners of HIV-positive men than non-regular partners and there was a trend toward greater HIV transmission rates from HIV-positive men to their regular serodiscordant female partners compared to non-regular partners. Results suggest an urgent need for HIV transmission risk reduction interventions for HIV serodiscordant couples, particularly for couples in established, regular relationships.
A high affinity Ca2+-dependent ATPase in the surface membrane of the bloodstream stage of Trypanosoma rhodesiense

Abstract Addition of Ca 2+ (0.01–1 mM) to a standard Trypanosoma rhodesiense Mg 2+ -ATPase assay failed to elicit any increase in activity. However, in the absence of externally added Mg 2+ and using calcium-EGTA or calcium-CDTA to precisely maintain free metal ion concentration, it was possible to measure a specific Ca 2+ -ATPase. Cell fractionation studies revealed this ATPase to be predominantly associated with subcellular particles having an equilibrium density of 1.22 g cm −3 and identified as surface membrane. Using a discontinuous sucrose gradient, a surface membrane enriched (SME) fraction, only slightly contaminated with mitochondria as judged by dichlorophenolindophenol-linked α-glycerophosphate dehydrogenase activity, was prepared. The SME fraction exhibited Ca 2+ -ATPase activity, using 200 nM free Ca 2+ , of 90 and 21 mU mg −1 protein, respectively, using CDTA and EGTA as buffering ligands. This latter result was most unexpected and indicated that the Ca 2+ -ATPase, in addition to having no Mg 2+ requirement, was inhibited by submicromolar levels of Mg 2+ . The Ca 2+ -ATPase was found to have a K 0.5 − 128 ± 22 nM free Ca 2+ , the response to increasing Ca 2+ concentration displaying an extremely high degree of co-operativity (Hill number ( n H ) = 4.9). The enzyme was found to be highly substrate-specific for ATP with K 0.5 = 6.2 ± 0.6 μ M ATP. A Hill plot of the reaction velocity as a function of ATP concentration indicated two substrate binding sites ( n H = 1.55). A range of potential modulators of ATPase activity were investigated, with only vanadate (V 2 O 8 3− ) having any effect: 47% inhibition at 5.0 μM. The Ca 2+ -ATPase was unaffected by the calmodulin antagonists chlorpromazine (50 μM) and trifluoperazine (50 μM), whilst addition of calmodulin failed to produce any stimulation of activity. It is concluded that the kinetic properties of this ATPase are compatible with a potential role in the regulation of intracellular Ca 2+ in bloodstream T. rhodesiense .
Management of chronic dizziness in elderly people

Dizziness is a frequent complaint in elderly people, and is a broad term used to explain various abnormal sensations related to the perception of the body's relationship to space. Classically, four subtypes are described: vertigo, pre-syncopal lightheadedness, disequilibrium, and other dizziness. Dizziness is often a chronic complaint in elderly people and may lead to dramatic worsened functional and psychosocial outcomes. Dizziness should be approached as a symptom and as a syndrome. In fact, physicians should exclude potential curable causes of dizziness, considering dizziness as a symptom of specific diseases. As dizziness is often multifactorial, it should also be treated as a geriatric syndrome. Physicians should, thus, identify risk factors of recurrent dizziness. The "Dizziness Handicap Inventory Scale" may assist the clinician to establish the extent of the "dizziness" problem. Specific causes of dizziness should be addressed as well as contributive factors (i.e., medications). Vestibular and balance rehabilitation with an interdisciplinary collaboration should start rapidly to avoid psycho-social complications, such as fear of falling.
On Calculation of Induced Drag and Conditions Downstream of a Lifting Wing

Results Figures 3 and 4 illustrate the plot of the velocity maxi- ma predicted by the above method compared with the measurements of Schauer and Eustis.6 The nondimen- sional static pressure on the bottom wall is also calculated by using Bernoulli's theorem. p + 1/2 pw2 = const on a streamline. The agreement with the experiments of Refs. 3 and 6 is good for the measured static pressure dis- tribution. It is also seen from the above graphs that a nondimensional profile could be obtained for various nozzle distances. The computing time involved in the above calculations were of the order of 5 sees. The bound- ary layer close to the wall could be described by a Bound- ary layer type approximation with a velocity at the outer edge given by the velocity distribution on the bottom plate. Conclusions Considering the normal impinging jet flow as consisting of two different regimes an expeditive method of calcula- tion has been developed. The present method takes into account the viscosity effects producing a rotation in the flow, and also it requires an incomparably shorter com- puter time than needed for the solution of the full Navier- Stokes equation. The accuracy of the predictions by using this method is as good as the predictions assumed by more time consuming methods.
Optical Characteristics of Amorphous III-V Nitride Thin Films

The optical constants and polarized optical properties of amorphous III-V nitride thin films, a-(Al, Ga, In) N, deposited by RF magnetron sputtering onto crystalline silicon, c-Si, (111) and glass substrates have been investigated over the wavelength range 300 – 1400 nm. The optical constants of a-AlN were obtained by analysis of the measured ellipsometric spectra through the Cauchy–Urbach model while the optical constants of a-(In, Ga) N were determined using the Tauc-Lorentz model. Analysis of the absorption coefficient of a-AlN (in the range 200 – 1400 nm) and a-GaN (in the range 300 – 1400 nm) show the optical bandgap to be 5.9 ± 0.05 and 3.44 ± 0.05 eV. The absorption coefficient of a-InN (in the range 300 – 1400 nm) as a function of photon energy shows the absorption edge to be about 1.74 ± 0.05 eV. From the angle dependence of the p-polarized reflectivity we deduced Brewster and principal angles of these films. Measurement of the polarized optical properties revealed a high transmissivity (70 % – 95 %) and low absorptivity (< 18 %) for all three thin films in the visible and near infrared regions.
Complex 2D photonic crystals with analogue local symmetry as 12-fold quasicrystals.

We construct fourteen complex periodic two-dimensional (2D) photonic structures with different structural symmetries by arranging the small portions of a 12-fold quasicrystal on square or hexagonal lattices. The corresponding reciprocal lattices confirm that all of them demonstrate the 12-fold-like characteristics due to the analogue short-range arrangements. We then investigate their photonic bandgap properties at different dielectric contrast levels (dielectric rods in air background). Our results suggest that all structures possess analogue transverse magnetic (TM) gaps in both Si and glass photonic crystals due to the similarity of their local geometries. However, the arrangements of the basic elements, total symmetries, and the coupling between the local and the lattice symmetries have greater impact on the glass photonic crystals, which show much larger deviation of gap sizes from different structures. Furthermore, we find that the minimal dielectric contrast to achieve the TM gap in the complex lattices (dielectric-in-air) can be as low as e = 1.44, whereas the inverse structures may open a 2D complete gap in silicon nitride (e = 4.1).
Noise Induced Hearing Loss in Children: Preventing the Silent Epidemic

Noise-induced hearing loss and related tinnitus are often unrecognized problems, especially in non-occupational settings. Research indicates that increasing numbers of children and adolescents have or are acquiring noise induced hearing losses. Noise induced hearing loss can almost completely be prevented with simple precautionary measures. Educational programs rarely exist outside of those mandated in occupational settings. Health Communication theory can be applied to hearing health for developing effective loss prevention programs. Dangerous Decibels is one example of an effective multi-disciplinary effort to develop and disseminated prevention strategies.
Data page layouts for relational databases on deep memory hierarchies

Relational database systems have traditionally optimized for I/O performance and organized records sequentially on disk pages using the N-ary Storage Model (NSM) (a.k.a., slotted pages). Recent research, however, indicates that cache utilization and performance is becoming increasingly important on modern platforms. In this paper, we first demonstrate that in-page data placement is the key to high cache performance and that NSM exhibits low cache utilization on modern platforms. Next, we propose a new data organization model called PAX (Partition Attributes Across), that significantly improves cache performance by grouping together all values of each attribute within each page. Because PAX only affects layout inside the pages, it incurs no storage penalty and does not affect I/O behavior. According to our experimental results (which were obtained without using any indices on the participating relations), when compared to NSM: (a) PAX exhibits superior cache and memory bandwidth utilization, saving at least 75% of NSM's stall time due to data cache accesses; (b) range selection queries and updates on memory-resident relations execute 1725% faster; and (c) TPC-H queries involving I/O execute 1148% faster. Finally, we show that PAX performs well across different memory system designs.
A TURBULENCE-RESOLVING EULERIAN TWO-PHASE MODEL FOR SEDIMENT TRANSPORT

A turbulence-resolving two-phase Eulerian model for sediment transport is developed by extending the new solver twoPhaseEulerSedFoam. The development and validation of a turbulence-averaged multi-dimensional two-phase model for sediment transport, twoPhaseEulerSedFoam version 1.0, was recently completed and the model was dissem- inated to the research community via the Community Surface Dynamics Modeling System (CSDMS) model repository. In order to resolve flow turbulence and turbulence-sediment interaction, large eddy simulation (LES) with subgrid tur- bulence closure is further implemented and simulation is carried out in three-dimension. Closures on particle stresses are based on kinetic theory of granular flow for binary collision and phenomenological closure for stresses of enduring contact. One of the main concerns in a turbulence-resolving simulation is regarding the domain size and finest grid resolution so that the flow domain is sufficiently large to contain the largest eddy and meanwhile, a significant amount of the turbulence energy is resolved appropriately. This paper discusses these crucial issues for typical sheet flow condition in oscillating water tunnels. Preliminary results also show that the model is able to capture the sediment burst events during the flow reversal.
Conjuring Culture: Biblical Formations of Black America

In Conjuring culture, Theophus H. Smith attempts to construct a more adequate analysis of African-American culture by using concepts derived from that culture. He bases his critique on the central concept of "conjure", and contends that Biblically-based themes, stories, and especially typology have crucially formed African-American culture as they have been simultaneously reformed and deployed by African-Americans.
Rational analysis of orthotropic bridge decks

Abstract New formulae are presented for the exact elastic analysis of a broad class of orthotropic bridge decks and panels in the form of ribbed plates. The formulae are directly applicable to decks that are simply supported at the ends and beam-supported at the sides and, through superposition, can be routinely extended to decks that are continuous over intermediate supports. The formulae are derived via a macro-discrete field approach, using mathematical models in the form of integral-summation equations.
A direct method to measure the fracture toughness of indium tin oxide thin films on flexible polymer substrates

Abstract This work presents a straightforward method to measure the fracture toughness of thin films deposited on flexible substrates. A 200 nm thick indium tin oxide (ITO) thin film is deposited on a 188 μm thick terephthalate (PET) substrate by a radio frequency magnetron sputtering machine. Using nanoindentation to induce brittle fracture on the ITO thin films, the energy release is calculated from integrating the resulting load–depth curve. An approach that directly measures the fracture toughness of thin films deposited on flexible substrates is proposed. A comparison shows that the results of the proposed method agree well with those of other reports. Furthermore, in order to improve the toughness of the ITO thin films, a copper interlayer is added between the ITO thin film and PET substrate. It shows that the fracture toughness of the ITO thin film deposited on the copper interlayer is higher than that of the one without the interlayer, which agrees well with the critical load tested by micro scratch. Further observations on optical and electric performances are also discussed in this work.
Should e-government design for citizen participation?: stealth democracy and deliberation

Cyberoptimists have heralded an age of citizen engagement enabled by electronic technologies that allow widespread citizen input in government decision making. In contrast, influential political scientists maintain that the preponderance of citizens quite reasonably wish to avoid political participation and that involving citizens could have very negative consequences for governance. In their widely-read book, Stealth Democracy, Hibbing and Theiss-Morse seek to show that much of the American public desires "stealth democracy"---a democracy run like a business by experts with little deliberation or public input. The authors maintain that stealth democracy beliefs are due to reasonable apathy rationales and that a more engaged democracy is simply of no interest to the public. This paper introduces an opposing "parochial citizens thesis" that suggests that stealth democracy beliefs may be driven by socially problematic beliefs and orientations, including reverence for authority and an incapacity to take other political perspectives. These views are rooted in simplistic conceptions of human agency and political leadership that might be ameliorated through deliberation. This paper examines survey and experimental data from the National Science Foundation / Information Technology Research funded Virtual Agora Project. The data comprise a representative sample of 568 Pittsburgh residents, who participated in face-to-face and online deliberations. Using OLS regression with cluster-robust standard errors, the paper finds that stealth democracy beliefs are explained by beliefs and orientations consistent with the parochial citizens thesis. It also finds that online democratic deliberation significantly ameliorates key stealth democracy beliefs and some of the factors that lead to these beliefs. Contrary to the stealth democracy thesis, e-government efforts to stimulate citizen deliberation may have positive consequences.
Potential Energy Fields about Nitrogen in Choline and Ethanolamine: Biological Function at Cellular Surfaces

Partial charge distribution on first and second neighbor atoms to nitrogen in choline and ethanolamine have been calculated. Coulombic and steric parameters were then utilized to evaluate the interaction of a negative test charge with the two molecules. Both the position and the magnitude of the maximum of interaction energy in the two systems were significantly different. The results suggest that ethanolamine interacts more strongly with anions than choline does. This is due principally to steric repulsion of the negative charge by the methyl groups in choline.
Uncoupling effects of 2,4-dinitrophenol on electron transfer reactions and cell bioenergetics in rat brain in situ.

Abstract We have examined the effects of uncoupling on electron transfer reactions and cell bioenergetics in rat brain in situ. The redox reactions of cyt aa3, cyt c and cyt b as well as the levels of phosphocreatine/inorganic phosphate ratio (PCr/Pi) were monitored in isolated perfused rat head, using optical and [31P]NMR techniques, respectively. In the first series of experiments anesthetized (pentobarbital) and mechanically ventilated rats underwent bilateral carotid arterial cannulation. The head (skull intact, muscle removed) was perfused with a perflurochemical solution (FC-43), and the animal was then decapitated. By means of reflectance spectrophotometry, the redox reactions of cyt aa3, c and b were monitored before and after perfusing the head with uncoupler 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) as well as after complete anoxia. The second series of experiments was performed using [31P]NMR spectroscopy (24.33 MHz; 10.25 in. magnet). PCr/Pi ratios were first determined for living rats (in vivo) before and after exchange transfusion with FC-43 (Hct
Facile synthetic entry into the 1,3-dihydro-3-methyl-3-phenyl-1,2-benziodoxole family of λ3-lodanes

Abstract The synthesis of series of 1,3-dihydro-3-methyl-3-phenyl-1,2-benziodoxoles, 7, containing chloro, tosyloxy, acetoxy, trifluoroacetoxy and azido ligands and the optical resolution of 2-iodo-α-methylbenzhydrol, the starting material for the synthesis of 7, are reported.
Design of Composite Water Turbine in Free Stream Using CFD

The objective of this paper is to investigate the performance of composite material axial water turbines in a free stream using Fluent, a Finite Volume based commercial CFD package. Based on three dimensional numerical flow analysis and fluid-structure interaction, the flow characteristics of water turbines including a nozzle, impeller and diffuser are predicted. The extracted power coefficient is calculated for water turbines of different tip speed ratios in a free stream of water with inlet velocity of 2.5m/s. The extracted powers of one single turbine unit and an array with ten turbine units are analyzed and compared for different rotating speeds and water inlet velocities. The calculated results will provide a fundamental understanding of the impeller as a water turbine, and this design method is used to shorten the design process and improve the water turbine’s performance.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Dataless objects considered harmful

Novice programmers should be taught not only the value of faithfully representing objects but, even more important, multiple programming paradigms as well.
Off-line direct deposition gas chromatography/surface-enhanced Raman scattering and the ramifications for on-line measurements.

Surface-enhanced Raman spectra (SERS) of molecules separated by gas chromatography (GC) were measured off-line by condensing the analyte on a moving, liquid-nitrogen-cooled ZnSe window on which a 5 nm layer of silver had been formed by physical vapor deposition. After the components that eluted from the chromatograph had been deposited, the substrate was allowed to warm up to room temperature and transferred to the focus of a Raman microspectrometer where the spectrum of each component was measured. Band intensities in the spectrum of 3 ng of caffeine prepared in this way were approximately the same as in the spectrum of bulk caffeine. By making some logical assumptions, it was shown that identifiable GC/SERS spectra of 30 pg of many molecules could be measured over a 300 cm−1 region in real-time and that if an optimized substrate were used the minimum identifiable quantity could be reduced to 1 pg or less.
Development of Phosphorescent OLED Lighting Panels for Highly Efficient Solid State Lighting

We present a 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm white PHOLED TM lighting panel that delivers 1,000 cd/m 2 with 68 lm/W efficacy, CRI > 80 and lifetime to LT70 ≈ 15,000 hrs. A simple all-phosphorescent device architecture, including a highly stable light blue phosphorescent emitter-host system, is used to reduce panel power consumption, extend operational lifetime and demonstrate exceptional emission color stability with aging.
Formation and Stability of Oxide Films on Platinum-Group Metals in Electrochemical and Related Environments As Probed by Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy: Dependence on the Chemical Oxidant

The electrode potential-dependent formation, stability, and nature of oxide layers formed on iridium, palladium, rhodium, and platinum in acidic aqueous solution are explored by means of in-situ surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). The technique utilizes recently developed procedures by which “pinhole-free” ultrathin (ca. 3−5 monolayers) transition-metal films are prepared by electrodeposition onto a SERS-active gold substrate, yielding polycrystalline Pt-group surfaces with negligible spectral interferences from the underlying gold. The oxide films formed by water electrooxidation exhibit broad yet distinctive metal−oxygen (νM-Ox) lattice modes primarily in the range 500−800 cm-1. Of particular interest is the nature and stability of oxides produced upon exposure to a chemical oxidant, nitric oxide, in acidic solution as sensed by SERS, in relation to the conventional electrochemical oxide. A distinctive oxide species identified by a sharp 570 cm-1 νM-Ox feature is formed on iridium by aqueous NO ...
From media audience to media public: a study of letters written in reaction to FDR's fireside chats

This article investigates the process by which media audiences become media publics in an analysis of Franklin D. Roosevelt's (FDR) fireside chats. Data for this analysis includes 380 randomly selected letters written in reaction to the first ten chats delivered by FDR during his first term of office. I show that FDR borrowed the `for-anyone-as-someone' structure of broadcasting to address listeners as particular individuals and as members of a mass public. In response, listeners adopted this structure to speak for themselves and for a mass public. In this manner, listeners associated themselves with a larger collectivity, but on the basis of collective rather than personal feelings. These feelings inspired bouts of sociability - serial conversations with family, friends, neighbors, and strangers - that look very much like an instance of collective reflexivity. Thus I conclude that the mass public which formed around FDR's fireside chats represents an instance in which a media audience transformed itself ...
Effect of Elevated Glucose on Endothelin-Induced Store-Operated and Non-Store-Operated Calcium Influx in Renal Mesangial Cells

Abstract . Early diabetic nephropathy exhibits renal glomerular hyperfiltration and an increase in renal plasma flow. The hyperfiltration is a dysfunctional state that may arise from a hyperglycemic-induced hypocontractility of glomerular mesangial cells that may be associated with depressed Ca 2+ signaling events. The present study was designed to determine the effects of acute (minutes) and chronic (days) elevated glucose levels on endothelin-induced calcium signaling with a particular emphasis on the potential influence on stores and store-operated Ca 2+ influx (SOCI ; also called capacitative calcium entry) in glomerular mesangial cells. Primary cultures of rat mesangial cells were grown in either high (30 mM) or normal (5 mM) glucose-containing media and tested in the presence of either high (30 mM) or normal (5 mM) glucose levels. Intracellular calcium levels were monitored with the calcium-sensitive fluorophore fura-2 before and after treatment with either endothelin-1 (10 nM), to induce typical Ca 2+ signals, or the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca-ATPase inhibitor thapsagargin (1 μM), to unload ER Ca 2+ stores. Both acute and chronic exposure to high glucose levels depressed the endothelin-induced calcium signal. However, neither release of Ca 2+ from stores nor SOCI were depressed by high glucose levels. In contrast, an endothelin-induced calcium entry pathway (likely receptor-operated calcium influx), separate from SOCI, was markedly depressed in the presence of both acute and chronic high glucose levels. The depressant effect of high glucose was rapidly (minutes) reversible upon returning to normal glucose levels. It is concluded that high glucose levels depress endothelin-induced calcium signaling in rat mesangial cells by inhibiting non-SOCI Ca 2+ entry pathways, namely the receptor-operated Ca 2+ influx pathway. The glucose-induced alterations in the receptor-operated calcium influx pathway may, in part, contribute to the depressed contractile state of glomerular cells during periods of hyperglycemia.
Thermodynamics of plasticized triblock copolymers. I. Theory

The thermodynamic theory of bulk ABA copolymers developed by Leary and Williams is extended to copolymer–solvent systems. Free energy expressions are derived for five hypothetical phase-separated morphologies and evaluated specifically for a polymer with approximately 25% of the A component. The separation temperature, Ts, at which a given morphology will be in equilibrium with a homogeneous mixture, is also evaluated. The major result is the prediction of the Ts(ϕS) depression, where ϕs is the solvent fraction. Depression is maximized when δS is equidistant between δA and δB, but becomes rapidly less when δS is outside the δA–δB range. Morphological favoritism is independent of ϕS and δS (model does not apply to preferential precipitation), with a planar microstructure being favored along with microstructures containing domains of B in continuous A for the 25% A polymer.
Tumor necrosis factor is present in maternal sera and embryo culture fluids during in vitro fertilization.

Abstract The incidence of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF) in sera of women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and in embryo culture fluids was evaluated using an enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay. Just prior to embryo transfer to the uterus, 24 of 49 maternal sera (49.0%) contained TNF. The incidence and range of TNF concentrations (84–920 pg/ml) did not differ between women with eventual successful pregnancies and women who subsequently suffered preclinical or clinical abortions. At 8 days post-embryo transfer, 24 of 56 sera (42.9%) contained TNF. Again, the occurrence of TNF was of no predictive value for the eventual outcome of the pregnancy. TNF was also detected in culture fluids from the in vitro fertilized eggs of 12 of 49 women (24.5%). In 9 women, TNF was detected in each of the embryo culture fluids tested. As was the case for sera, the presence or absence of TNF in the culture fluids was unrelated to pregnancy outcome. In 21 patients, paired sera and culture fluids were analyzed. In 9 of 10 women with TNF in their culture fluids, TNF was also present in the corresponding serum. Of 12 women with serum TNF, 9 also had TNF in their culture fluids. Since the culture fluids contained 10% maternal sera, it appeared that in most cases TNF in the culture fluids was derived, at least in part, from the serum. However, in 6 of 9 women TNF levels in the cultures exceeded levels in the corresponding sera. TNF was also identified in 2 of 10 culture fluids in which Plasmanate was substituted for serum. The embryo itself and/or associated granulosa cells may also contribute to TNF in the in vitro culture fluids. We conclude that TNF production is a normal consequence of the hyperstimulation of ovulation induction in women undergoing IVF and that TNF, at the levels detected, appears not to be detrimental to the viability or development of the pre-implantation stage embryo.
Rural and urban disparities in the evolution of sentinel lymph node utilization in breast cancer.

BACKGROUND: Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has become the preferred method for axillary nodal staging. The authors examined SLNB utilization in urban versus rural settings as this procedure was adopted and hypothesized that SLNB rates among urban populations increased faster, while the technology shift and acceptance of SLNB were slower at rural centers. METHODS: The Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database was used to identify patients with invasive node-negative ductal or lobular breast cancer diagnosed from 1998 to 2008. Exclusion criteria were distant metastatic disease, T4 tumors, or incomplete data. Residential setting was divided into groups on the basis of population density. RESULTS: The overall rate of SLNB increased with time (from 10% in 1998 to 73% in 2008). The adoption of SLNB was slower in rural settings than among urban populations (P ,.001). By 2003, only urban areas were using SLNB in .50% of cases. Overall, there was a 2-year lag between the increases in SLNB utilization rates in these groups. There was a significant difference in SLNB rates according to tumor size. CONCLUSION: The overall rate of SLNB remained near 50% and was lower in rural locations in 2004. By 2008, the SLNB rate for T1 and T2 tumors had increased to .50% in all population categories. SLNB utilization was lower in all population categories as tumor size increased. There was an overall 2-year lag in the adoption of SLNB in less populated areas. Although this may represent a more conservative approach, the difference may be attributable to a shortage of experienced surgeons, lack of training, or lack of technological support at smaller institutions.