cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Towards Mapping Domain Boundaries of Proteins

GFP fluorescence from bacterial colonies expressing a polypeptide upstream of GFP depends on the solubility of the polypeptide. Inspired by this idea, we developed a method to test for the folding of any polypeptide longer than about 66 amino acids. This method bypasses the need for purification of the polypeptide to test for folding. We employed this technique to identify the independently folded domains of Mid1, a fission yeast protein of 920 amino acids that participate in cytokinesis. A random fragment library of Mid1 cDNA was generated using tagged random primer PCR (tPCR). The fragment library was cloned upstream of a monomeric enhanced GFP (mEGFP) and expressed in E.coli. The GFP fluorescence of the bacterial colonies expressing the fusion constructs were compared to a threshold level of fluorescence to test if the Mid1 fragment fused to mEGFP is folded. Colonies expressing folded fragments of Mid1 are brighter than control colonies or colonies expressing an unfolded protein fragment fused upstream of mEGFP. Approximately 27000 colonies were screened to identify five soluble folded domains and one insoluble region, accounting for the entire length of Mid1 protein. This large scale approach will be useful in rapidly mapping domain boundaries of proteins in absence of any prior knowledge about the domain organization of the proteins.
Prevalences of positive skin test responses to 10 common allergens in the US population: Results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Background Allergy skin tests were administered in the second and third National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES II and III) conducted in the United States from 1976 through 1980 and 1988 through 1994, respectively. Objectives This study estimated positive skin test response rates in NHANES III and identified predictors of one or more positive test responses. Comparisons with NHANES II were also made. Methods In NHANES III, 10 allergens and 2 controls were tested in all subjects aged 6 to 19 years and a random half-sample of subjects aged 20 to 59 years. A wheal-based definition of a positive test response was used. Results In NHANES III, 54.3% of the population had positive test responses to 1 or more allergens. Prevalences were 27.5% for dust mite, 26.9% for perennial rye, 26.2% for short ragweed, 26.1% for German cockroach, 18.1% for Bermuda grass, 17.0% for cat, 15.2% for Russian thistle, 13.2% for white oak, 12.9% for Alternaria alternata , and 8.6% for peanut. Among those with positive test responses, the median number of positive responses was 3.0. Adjusted odds of a positive test response were higher for the following variables: age of 20 to 29 years, male sex, minority race, western region, old homes, and lower serum cotinine levels. For the 6 allergens common to NHANES II and III, prevalences were 2.1 to 5.5 times higher in NHANES III. Conclusions The majority of the US population represented in NHANES III was sensitized to 1 or more allergens. Whether the higher prevalences observed in NHANES III reflect true changes in prevalence or methodological differences between the surveys cannot be determined with certainty.
Why Must Behavior Intervention Plans Be Based on Functional Assessments

Functional assessments, how they are conducted, and their relevance to selecting effective interventions are discussed. Functional assessments can help the school psychologist determine the purpose of the student’s behavior. Once the purpose is determined, more relevant and effective reinforcement approaches to behavior change can be selected than when interventions are arbitrarily chosen. When functional assessments are used, the emphasis changes from what can be done to the student to stop the problem behavior to what changes can be made in the school and/or home environments to enable students to achieve their potential.
Social facilitation and human-computer interaction

The Computers As Social Actors (CASA) research paradigm has examined how individuals respond to computers programmed to interact in various ways. In the current research, we extend the principles of CASA to determine whether computer icons can be used to produce social facilitation effects. Varying task difficulty and the presence or absence of a computer icon (i.e., Microsoft word's Clip), performance on a typing task is considered. Overall, results provide some support for the contention that the mere presence of a computer icon may influence task performance.
Constructing battery-aware virtual backbones in wireless sensor networks

A critical issue in battery-powered sensor networks is to construct energy efficient virtual backbones for network routing. Recent study in battery technology reveals that batteries tend to discharge more power than needed and reimburse the overdischarged power if they are recovered. In this paper we first provide a mathematical battery model suitable for implementation in sensor networks. We then introduce the concept of battery-aware connected dominating set (BACDS) and show that in general the minimum BACDS (MBACDS) can achieve longer lifetime than the previous backbone structures. Then we show that finding a MBACDS is NP-hard and give a distributed approximation algorithm to construct the BACDS. The resulting BACDS constructed by our algorithm is at most (8 + Δ)opt size, where Δ is the maximum node degree and opt is the size of an optimal BACDS. Simulation results show that the BACDS can save a significant amount of energy and achieve up to 30% longer network lifetime than previous schemes.
Hole-drilling technique: Modifications in the analysis of residual stresses

It is known that the hole-drilling technique to determine the surface residual stresses is a very useful tool. It has been shown in this work that without having found the correct angle γ, the values of stresses obtained were such that emax was less than emin for some strain relaxations. This point was not considered in the previous work. The present work points out this anomaly, gives a set of equations for a rosette of general configuration, reduces these equations for a rectangular rosette and gives a method to yield correct principal stresses and their directions. It is thus concluded here that the determination of the correct angle γ is very necessary to evaluate the stresses correctly; without doing so, the results are suspect and, thus, are of no use. It must be mentioned here that the method of determining the correct angle as described in this article is useful not only in the hole-drilling technique but also in any analysis where the angle is to be computed by taking the inverse of a trigonometric function. This method has been used by the author in the determination of the directions of the resultant bearing loads in a crankshaft.
Active noise control studies using the Rayleigh–Ritz method

The use of piezoelectric materials in controlling the vibration of continuous structures has grown significantly in recent years. A number of studies using Finite Element (FE) method [1, 2, 3, 4] have been made on noise transmission studies for rectangular enclosures through flexible smart panels. In these models, the host plate, actuators and sensors are modeled using 2D and 3D elements, which are later coupled, to the cavity in which the pressure is expressed in terms of rigid cavity modes. Although these earlier FE models predict the behavior of the structural panel and the fluid-structure interaction accurately at low frequencies, at high frequencies the size of the model increases resulting in very long computational time. Further, optimal sensor/actuator placement studies, involve repeated FE remeshing during the iterations, hence a simple model like the RR approach is preferred. The potential and kinetic energies of the panel with surface bonded discrete piezoelectric patches are estimated and the equations of motion for the smart panel are derived using Hamilton’s principle. The electric potential inside the piezoelectric patches are assumed to be a quadratic function of thickness coordinate. Classical laminated plate theory is used for modeling the host plate and the electroelastic theory is used to model the surface bonded patches. In electroelastic theory, reduced charge equation is satisfied inside both sensor and actuator patches. For the acoustic enclosure, the cavity pressure is expressed in terms of rigid cavity modes [5]. For the numerical study and to validate the RR approach, the frequencies obtained using RR approach are compared with the FE results for a smart aluminum plate backed cubic cavity.
Schur indexes of sporadic simple groups

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to determine the Schur indices of the characters of the 10 known sporadic simple groups of order less than one billion. Computational methods have been used to reduce this problem to consideration of a few characters of some of the smaller groups. The results show that all characters have Schur index less than or equal to 2.
On the Basis Screws and Screw Systems of Point-Line and Line Displacements

This paper presents a method to derive and characterize the basis screws and the screw systems associated with a general point-line displacement. The transformation of a point-line between positions is depicted as a screw displacement about their common normal accompanied by a pure translation along the point-line. Such an interpretation of point-line displacement leads to a simple screw triangle used in deriving the basis screws and the screw system. The expressions of the basis screws and screw systems are simple and concise while the geometric meaning explicit. The result from basis screws of point-line displacement is also extended to line displacement and an example is given to demonstrate the simplicity of the method.
Neutral-beam-injection heating of toroidal plasmas for fusion research

Extending the encouraging confinement results in Tokarnak devices and further establishing scaling laws makes it essential to attain ion temperatures corresponding to the collisionless regime, where reactors will operate. Ohmic heating used in the present devices is self-limiting since the plasma resistance drops as the temperature increases. Neutral-beam injection heating is not only a supplemental heating scheme that is efficient and not self-limiting but is also a developed technology ready for application. Injection heaters have been developed at ORNL for ORMAK which are capable of supplying 60 kW to the plasma per injector with up to four units usable. These systems use 4 A of H+ and ions at 35-40 keV from a duoPIGatron ion source. These heaters are capable of increasing the ion temperatures in the 8 × 105 cm3 ORMAK plasma volume to several keV at densities of ≈ 3-6×1013cm−3.
Learning and Teaching: A Theory of Action Perspective:

This article describes learning and teaching activities in large group settings that are informed by a theory of action perspective and examines the epistemological and pedagogical implications for...
Modeling the evolution of the dynamic mechanical properties of a commercial epoxy during cure after gelation

ABSTRACT: The cure kinetics for a commercial epoxy have been established and theinﬂuence of the degree of cure on the glass transition determined. Time-temperatureand time-conversion superposition principles have been built into a model that success-fully predicts the development of the viscoelastic properties of the epoxy during iso-thermal cure from gelation to after vitriﬁcation. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.* J ApplPolym Sci 76: 495–508, 2000 Key words: cure; epoxy; thermoset; viscoelastic properties; shear modulus INTRODUCTION Understanding the cure of thermosetting materi-als is important to their application in the auto-motive, aerospace, and electronics industries. Theisothermal time-temperature-transformation (TTT)cure diagram of Gillham 1,2 has provided an intel-lectual framework for understanding the behav-ior of these systems during cure, particularly theeffects of gelation and vitriﬁcation on the curekinetics and properties. Although the kinetics ofthe cure reaction(s) in cross-linking systems arevery well-described, quantitative descriptions ofthe evolution of mechanical properties duringcure are not well developed. Here we propose amethodology that combines the principles of time-temperature superposition, time-cross-link den-sity superposition, and the rubbery elasticity ofnetworks to accurately model the evolution of theviscoelastic properties during cure using limitedexperimental data. Such modeling may be ex-pected to facilitate optimization of cure proce-dures in thermosetting systems, particularly forthe reduction of residual stresses in, for example,composite materials.The well-known principle of time-temperaturesuperposition is based on the hypothesis that themechanical response at short times (or high fre-quencies) is analogous to the response at low tem-peratures, and vice versa. The general validity ofthe concept is supported by the ability to satisfac-torily reduce creep or stress relaxation data toform master curves.
Bacterial mortality and the fate of bacterial production

Knowledge of the rates of bacterial mortality, particularly predatory mortality, is important in determining the fate of bacterial production. Communities of planktonic bacteria have specific growth rates on the order of 1 d−1, but there is relatively little variation in bacterial abundance, implying that growth and mortality are closely coupled. A review of the mechanisms of bacterial mortality suggests that predation and parasitism are the most likely factors balancing the rapid rates of bacterial growth on daily time-scales. Experiments done in two-stage continuous cultures partially support this notion. At bacterial growth rates of 1 d−1, predatory mortality was on the order of 1.5–2 d−1 and nonpredatory mortality was undetectable. On the other hand, a review of existing field studies indicates that neither predation by metazoans nor protists balances rates of bacterial growth. Improved methods for measuring bacterial growth and mortality and studies of the nonpredatory mechanisms of bacterial mortality are required to resolve this paradox.
Reporting biological assay screening results for maximum impact

A very large corpus of biological assay screening results exist in the public domain. The ability to compare and analyze this data is hampered due to missing details and lack of a commonly used terminology to describe assay protocols and assay endpoints. Minimum reporting guidelines exist that, if followed, would greatly enhance the utility of biological assay screening data so it may be independently reproduced, readily integrated, effectively compared, and rapidly analyzed.
Stability indicative function and its application to systems with time delay

For investigating stability of linear systems with time delay, it is not sufficient to know critical values of such a parameter as time delay. In order to determine whether or not the system is stable for a given delay, the “stability indicative function” is introduced. This function is applied to second- and third-order linear systems with time delay and the stability regions of several cases are obtained. Some examples clearly show that the existence of time delay may make a stable system unstable or an unstable system stable. This phenomenon is explained from a theoretical point of view.
Fund for non-fast food

⁎ Tel.: +1 202 741 2426; fax: +1 202 741 2324. E-mail address: tcheng@mfa.gwu.edu. fat content and the empty calories of soda sweetener” in the fast food [1], would give money to his patients to go to buy fast food. Fast food leads to obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, metabolic syndrome and coronary artery disease not only in the United States [2] but also worldwide including Canada [3] and China [3–5]. Would it not be far more conscionable and responsible for the author to give money to his patient and to advise him to use it wisely by preparing some healthy food at home? The author of this manuscript has certified that he comply with the Principles of Ethical Publishing in the International Journal of Cardiology [6].
Neck Pain, or Just a Pain in the Neck?

This is a case of a 13-year-old boy with a 2 day history of right shoulder pain and fever, progressing to include neck pain and stiffness. The patient had soft tissue swelling and tenderness over his shoulder and sternoclavicular joint, and was admitted to the intensive care unit due to signs of sepsis. CT and MRI imaging demonstrated multiple nodular densities in the lungs, local cellulitis, myositis and osteomyelitis at the shoulder and clavicle, and a flow void in the right internal jugular vein, consistent with Lemierre syndrome. Blood cultures revealed MRSA as the causative organism.
Blindness as initial manifestation of meningeal carcinomatosis in breast cancer.

The sudden onset of blindness in adults, with or without a history of malignancy should raise the possibility of meningeal carcinomatosis. The diagnosis is best confirmed with examination of the spinal fluid. The actual mechanism by which blindness occurs is probably a combination of tumor cuffing around the optic nerve, direct infiltration and chronic papilledema. We are reporting two patients with disseminated breast cancer who presented with blindness as the first manifestation of meningeal involvement. Treatment with whole brain radiation and intrathecal Cytosine Arabinoside produced temporary remissions, but both died a few months later of their cancer. Cancer 44:755-757, 1979.
Characteristic parameters of 6-22 MeV electron beams from a 25-MeV linear accelerator.

Depth-ionization measurements were performed using a thin wall parallel plate chamber in water at nominal electron energies of 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 22 MeV for the standard available square field sizes. The characteristic parameters of the central axis depth-dose distributions were derived and compared to corresponding values for other accelerators. Vacuum packed therapy-verification films were used in water to obtain isodose distributions in a plane containing the central axis of the beam. The uniformity index and penumbra of the beams were measured from isodose distributions obtained in planes perpendicular to the beam central axis, at depths of (1)/(2) R/sub 85/ in water.
A floquet theory of the linear synchronous machine

Abstract The differential equation describing the three-phase linear synchronous machine containing an arbitrary stator MMF distribution is reformulated and solved as a perturbation theory problem. The solution algorithm presented also produces a transformation capable of reducing to constant coefficient form the differential equation describing the machine. The theory is illustrated by applying it to a simple two pole machine.
Chloral hydrate anesthesia: EEG power spectrum analysis and effects on VEPS in the rat

This paper describes the use of EEG power spectrum analysis as a tool in identifying and controlling the state of an animal, a major source of variability in evoked potential (EP) data. Also described is a procedure of anesthetic administration combined with on-line EEG power spectrum analysis that permits an animal to be maintained in a stable, moderately anesthetized state during which VEP's are qualitatively comparable to those seen in the unanesthetized animal. Anesthesia level in acute preparations was varied by IV injections of chloral hydrate, and the EEG and light-flash VEP's were recorded from visual cortex. Under deep anesthesia, EEG activity was concentrated in the 0.1 Hz to 3 Hz band with very little contribution from frequencies higher than 10 Hz. After this period of deep anesthesia, EEG frequency distribution became bimodal with peaks in the 0.1-3 Hz and 5-7 Hz ranges, and a minor frequency band between 10 and 30 Hz. This moderate anesthetic state persisted for about 30 min. Two distinct forms of VEP's were highly correlated with these EEG frequency distributions. VEP's associated with the moderate anesthetic state were comparable to those reported from awake, chronic preparations. In VEP's associated with deep anesthesia, negative components were greatly attenuated or entirely absent; amplitudes of the positive components were increased as were the latencies of all components.
Emphasis on the Gospel and Christian Reform in Late Medieval Preaching

Christian history demonstrates repeatedly that the church at its best has been a self-criticizing institution. Furthermore, the call to both corporate and individual reformation has never ceased to be regarded as the special obligation of Christian, preachers. Their hearers through the centuries have often been, highly sensitive, as individuals and groups, to castigation of any kind emanating from whatever quarter. In every era, however, there have been some prophetic spokesmen who have continued to take seriously the censures of the church's enemies and to call for self-examination, repentance, and rededication—both personal and social—on the part of its true friends.
Osmium-Mediated Electrophilic Addition Reactions with Selenophene and Activation of the Se−C Bond

The complex [Os(NH3)5(η2-selenophene)](OTf)2 (1) has been prepared and treated with several electrophilic reagents to afford Se-alkyl and 2H-selenophenium complexes in high yield. In many aspects, the reactivity observed for 1 directly parallels that seen for the thiophene analogue. Protonation (HOTf/MeCN) and alkylation (acetal/TBSOTf) occur at C2, affording (1,5-η2)-2H-selenophenium complexes (2 and 3, respectively). Methylation (MeOTf/MeCN) occurs at the heteroatom, affording the 1-methylselenophenium complex 4, which, when treated with a nucleophile, undergoes C−Se cleavage to form an η2-4-(alkylseleno)-1,3-butadiene complex (5).
Interstellar oxide grains from the Tieschitz ordinary chondrite

MOST material in the Solar System has an isotopic composition that represents an average of the different stars that contributed material to the protostellar cloud. Primitive meteorites, on the other hand, preserve grains that retain the isotopic signatures of their individual stellar sources1 and thus provide valuable insight into stellar and galactic evolution, nucleosynthesis, and solar nebular processes. A large number of pre-solar silicon carbide, graphite and diamond grains have now been isolated1,2, but only three interstellar oxide grains have hitherto been recovered3–7, even though oxygen-rich stars are believed to be the dominant source of dust in the Galaxy8,9. We report here the isolation of 21 interstellar oxide grains from the Tieschitz meteorite. The grains exhibit a wide range of oxygen isotope compositions, indicating that they originated in several distinct stellar sources having different masses and initial compositions. There is also evidence for the presence of the short-lived radionuclide 26A1 in nine of the grains at the time they formed. Although the isotopic compositions of many of the grains are consistent with both observations and theoretical models of oxygen-rich red giant stars, a significant fraction have no observed stellar counterpart.
The Susceptibility Loci Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Shares With Other Autoimmune Diseases Extend to PTPN2, COG6, and ANGPT1

Objective To test for associations between non–major histocompatibility complex susceptibility loci previously reported in autoimmune diseases and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Methods Published autoimmune disease genome-wide association studies were reviewed, and 519 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected for association testing. The initial cohort included 809 JIA cases and 3,535 controls of non-Hispanic, European ancestry. Of the SNPs, 257 were successfully genotyped, while 168 were imputed with quality. Based on findings in the initial cohort, replication was sought for 21 SNPs in a second cohort of 1,015 JIA cases and 1,569 controls collected in the US and Germany. For the initial cohort, tests for association were adjusted for potential confounding effects of population structure by including principal components derived from a genome-wide association study as covariates in logistic regression models. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results Testing for association of previously reported autoimmune disease genetic associations in the initial cohort suggested associations with JIA in 13 distinct loci. Of these, 7 were validated in the replication cohort. Meta-analysis results for the replicating loci included PTPN22 (rs6679677 [OR 1.58, P = 1.98 × 10−12], rs2476601 [OR 1.64, P = 1.90 × 10−13], and rs2488457 [OR 1.32, P = 6.74 × 10−8]), PTPN2 (rs1893217 [OR = 1.33, P = 1.60 × 10−9] and rs7234029 [OR 1.35, P = 1.86 × 10−10]), ADAD1-IL2-IL21 (rs17388568 [OR 1.24, P = 1.13 × 10−6] and rs13143866 [OR 0.83, P = 1.95 × 10−4]), STAT4 (rs3821236 [OR = 1.27, P = 2.36 × 10−6] and rs7574865 [OR = 1.31, P = 2.21 × 10−6]), C12orf30 (rs17696736 [OR = 1.19, P = 2.59 × 10−5]), COG6 (rs7993214 [OR = 0.76, P = 1.10 × 10−5]), and ANGPT1 (rs1010824 [OR = 0.79, P = 2.91 × 10−4]). These polymorphisms have been reported in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, Crohn's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Conclusion General susceptibility loci for autoimmunity are shared across diseases, including JIA, suggesting the potential for common therapeutic targets and mechanisms.
Concept identification and utilization among children of different ages.

Abstract The present study investigated the relationship between developmental factors and concept learning. Children with CA's of 5, 11, and 13 years were presented a discrimination task which could be solved according to one or a combination of three learning processes. Test trials were employed to establish the basis for the initial discrimination, and a transfer problem followed to determine the effects of initial learning on performance in a subsequent task. The general results indicated that the incidence of concept identification and utilization is positively related to CA.
High-Resolution Radio Imaging of Gravitational Lensing Candidates in the 1 Jansky BL Lacertae Sample

While BL Lacertae objects are widely believed to be highly beamed, low-luminosity radio galaxies, many radio-selected BL Lac objects have extended radio power levels and optical emission lines that are too luminous to be low-luminosity radio galaxies. In addition, Stocke & Rector discovered an excess of Mg II absorption systems along BL Lac sight lines compared with quasars, suggesting that gravitational lensing may be another means of creating the BL Lac phenomenon in some cases. We present a search for gravitationally lensed BL Lac objects with deep, high-resolution, two-frequency VLA radio maps of seven lensing candidates from the 1 Jy BL Lac sample. We find that none of these objects are resolved into an Einstein ring like B0218+357, nor do any show multiple images of the core. All of the lensing candidates that were resolved show a flat-spectrum core and very unusual, steep-spectrum extended morphology that is incompatible with a multiply lensed system. Thus, while these observations do not rule out microlensing, no macrolensing is observed.
P300, probability, and introverted/extroverted personality types

Extreme introverted and extroverted subject groups (n = 24 each) containing equal numbers of male and females were assessed with the P300 (P3) component of the event-related potential (ERP). A two-tone auditory discrimination task in which the probability of the target stimulus varied systematically in different conditions (.20, .40, .60, .80) was used to elicit the ERPs. The P3 amplitude demonstrated a significant interaction between personality type, probability, and subject gender and was generally smaller for introverts than for extroverts. Female subjects tended to have larger overall P3 components than male subjects. P3 latency was not affected by the personality variable. The results support previous findings for ERP differences between introverts and extroverts and suggest that personality type differentially influences target stimulus probability effects. The findings are discussed in terms of individual differences in cortical activity on P3 amplitude and personality measures.
Clinical response to prolonged corticosteroids in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy

Human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is characterized by massive proteinuria with rapidly progressive renal failure. We report an adult with HIV infection who developed nephrotic-range proteinuria and acute renal failure requiring hemodialysis. Renal biopsy findings were consistent with HIVAN, exhibiting focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis with dilated microcystic tubules filled with pale eosinophilic material. Institution of corticosteroid therapy was followed by significant improvement in renal function and proteinuria. Corticosteroids were tapered, and the patient experienced worsening of his renal failure and proteinuria. A second course of corticosteroids was again associated with improved renal function. This and other reports suggest that corticosteroids may improve the clinical course of HIVAN.
Methodology for the Performance Evaluation of a Conflict Probe

A conflict probe is an air traffic management tool that can predict conflicts well in advance, using information on aircraft position, speed and flight plans along with forecasts of wind and temperature profiles. Strategic (early) resolution of conflicts has the potential to reduce the cost associated with conflict resolution maneuvers. A conflict probe would be especially useful in a "free flight" environment, which is expected to have a less structured traffic flow compared to the current operating environment. This paper presents a comprehensive methodology to quantitativel y evaluate the performance of a conflict probe, using real traffic data and expanded separation criteria. The methodology is generic in nature, and can be applied to any conflict probe. It can therefore provide a framework for a comparative study of conflict probes. Several metrics of conflict probe performance have been developed and evaluated. The missed alert rate and false alert rate are primary metrics that quantify the reliability of a conflict probe; the mean conflict warning time and errors in key conflict prediction parameters such as minimum horizontal and vertical separations are important secondary metrics that quantify the accuracy of a conflict probe. Work is underway to validate the evaluation methodology developed in this work by applying it to the Center-TRACON Automation System's Conflict Probe Tool, using real traffic data from the Denver Air Route Traffic Control Center; some preliminary results are presented as an example.
Biomass thermal gasification research: Recent results from the United States DOE's research program

Abstract The US Department of Energy (DOE) has been sponsoring research on the thermal gasification of biomass. The main thrust of this research has been directed toward the production of medium-energy gases which can be used directly as fuel gases or serve as feedstocks for the production of liquid fuels such as alcohols or gasoline. The DOE research effort includes both directly heated and indirectly heated gasification concepts. Fixed-bed, fluidized-bed and entrained gasification reactors have been explored.
Characterization of Pdgfrb-Cre transgenic mice reveals reduction of ROSA26 reporter activity in remodeling arteries.

With the intention to modulate gene expression in vascular mural cells of remodeling vessels, we generated and characterized transgenic mouse lines with Cre recombinase under the control of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β promoter, referred to as Tg(Pdgfrb-Cre)35Vli. Transgenic mice were crossed with the Gt(ROSA)26Sortm1Sor strain and examined for Cre activation by β-galactosidase activity, which was compared with endogenous Pdgfrb expression. In addition, Pdgfrb-Cre mice were used to drive expression of a conditional myc-tagged Cthrc1 transgene. There was good overlap of β-galactosidase activity with endogenous Pdgfrb immunoreactivity. However, dedifferentiation of vascular mural cells induced by carotid artery ligation revealed a dramatic discrepancy between ROSA26 reporter activity and Pdgfrb promoter driven Cre dependent myc-tagged Cthrc1 transgene expression. Our studies demonstrate the capability of the Pdgfrb-Cre mouse to drive conditional transgene expression as a result of prior Cre mediated recombination in tissues known to express endogenous Pdgfrb. In addition, the study shows that ROSA26 promoter driven reporter mice are not suitable for lineage marking of smooth muscle in remodeling blood vessels.
Is X-ray emissivity constant on magnetic flux surfaces?

Abstract Knowledge of the elongations and shifts of internal magnetic flux surfaces can be used to determine the q profile in elongated tokamak plasmas. X-ray tomography is thought to be a reasonable technique for independently measuring internal flux surface shapes, because it is widely believed that X-ray emissivity should be constant on a magnetic flux surface. In the Alcator C-Mod tokamak, the X-ray tomography diagnostic system consists of four arrays of 38 chords each. A comparison of reconstructed X-ray contours with magnetic flux surfaces shows a small but consistent discrepancy in the radial profile of elongation. Numerous computational tests have been performed to verify these findings, including tests of the sensitivity to calibration and viewing geometry errors, the accuracy of the tomography reconstruction algorithms, and other subtler effects. We conclude that the discrepancy between the X-ray contours and the magnetic flux surfaces is real, leading to the conclusion that X-ray emissivity is not exactly constant on a flux surface.
Hospital preparedness for bioterrorism.

James D. Bentley, PhD3 I have been asked to address what happens when, despite the best detection, the best prevention, and the best information, people get sick in a bioterrorism attack and end up in the hospital. The hospital is the likely source of care because it is accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It's where you and I, our friends, and our neighbors assume we're going to get care in an emergency. The question before us is, what are the challenges facing hospitals as they confront the potential for bioterrorism? I'd like to share thoughts in three areas with you.
Propagation modeling over terrain using the parabolic wave equation

We address the numerical solution of the parabolic wave equation over terrain using the Fourier/split-step approach. The method, referred to as a shift map, generalizes that of Beilis and Tappert (1979) who introduced a coordinate transformation technique to flatten the boundary. This technique is extended to a wide-angle form, allowing larger propagation angles with respect to the horizon. A new impedance boundary condition is derived for electromagnetic waves incident on a finitely conducting surface that enables solution of the parabolic wave (PWE) using the previously developed mixed Fourier transform. It is also shown by example that in many cases of interest, the boundary may be approximated by discrete piecewise linear segments without affecting the field solution. A more accurate shift map solution of the PWE for a piecewise linear boundary is, therefore, developed for modeling propagation over digitally sampled terrain data. The shift-map solution is applied to various surface types, including ramps, wedges, curved obstacles, and actual terrain. Where possible, comparisons are made between the numerical solution and an exact analytical form. The examples demonstrate that the shift map performs well for surface slopes as large as 10-15/spl deg/ and discontinuous slope changes on the order of 15-20/spl deg/. To accommodate a larger range of slopes, it is suggested that the most viable solution for general terrain modeling is a hybrid of the shift map with the well-known terrain masking (knife-edge diffraction) approximation.
Pulmonary Atresia/Intact Ventricular Septum: Influence of Coronary Anatomy on Single-Ventricle Outcome

Background We investigated the influence of coronary artery abnormalities on outcome in patients with pulmonary atresia/intact ventricular septum (PA-IVS) for planned single-ventricle palliation. Methods Catheterization and medical records were reviewed in patients with PA-IVS for planned single-ventricle palliation at our institution between 2000 and 2012. Primary outcome was death or transplantation. Patients with confirmed or strong suspicion of stenosis in 2 or more main coronary arteries or coronary ostial atresia were defined as having right ventricle–dependent coronary circulation (RVDCC); those with stenosis of 1 main vessel or normal anatomy were defined as having non-RVDCC. Results Of 58 patients with PA-IVS, 17 (30%) underwent single-ventricle palliation. Ten (59%) had RVDCC (3 with ostial atresia) and 7 (41%) had non-RVDCC. Median follow-up time was 8.2 years (0 months–11.3 years), with 1 patient in each group lost to follow-up. Five patients with RVDCC died, including the 3 patients with ostial atresia, and 1 underwent transplantation at 6 months of life. No deaths occurred after second-stage palliation. Three of the 4 surviving patients with RVDCC completed a Fontan operation, and 2 of these patients had evidence of cardiac ischemia on follow-up. No deaths occurred among patients with non-RVDCC. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated significantly better survival in patients with non-RVDCC (100%) than in patients with RVDCC (40%) ( p = 0.026). Conclusions In patients with PA-IVS undergoing single-ventricle palliation, RVDCC is associated with high early mortality, especially with coronary ostial atresia. There should be early consideration of transplantation in neonates with RVDCC. Patients with non-RVDCC undergoing single-ventricle palliation have excellent long-term outcomes, with no mortality seen in this series.
Handling stochastic constraints in discrete optimization via simulation

We consider a discrete optimization via simulation problem with stochastic constraints on secondary performance measures where both objective and secondary performance measures need to be estimated by simulation. To solve the problem, we present a method called penalty function with memory (PFM), which determines a penalty value for a solution based on history of feasibility check on the solution. PFM converts a DOvS problem with stochastic constraints into a series of new optimization problems without stochastic constraints so that an existing DOvS algorithm can be applied to solve the new problem.
Senior process design-a decade of chemical plants

The senior design course in chemical engineering at Widener University covers two semesters. In the first semester, the students work on a common project selected by the professor. In the Fall 2001 semester, the project was the manufacture of ethylene from propane via steam pyrolysis. In previous years, choices were methanol, ammonia, metathesis and the like. The choice of plant is important since the widest range of design experience is most appropriate. During the four months of the fall term, students learn how to develop and critically evaluate a process design using state of the art simulation tools. In the second semester, students randomly pick a technology out of an envelope. The course requirements are for students to provide a process design package, including all technical and economic details for a world scale manufacturing facility, by the end of the semester. Students are also required to present and defend their design. This course structure is now in its tenth year. Feedback from the students has been positive and they exhibit pride and ownership in their work. Examples of successes, pitfalls, and the course assessment process over the past decade are discussed.
Two resource distribution strategies for dynamic mitigation of influenza pandemics

As recently pointed out by the Institute of Medicine, the existing pandemic containment and mitigation models lack the dynamic decision support capabilities. We present two simulation-based optimization models for developing dynamic predictive resource distribution strategies for cross-regional pandemic outbreaks. In both models, the underlying simulation mimics the disease and population dynamics of the affected regions. The quantity-based optimization model generates a progressive allocation of limited quantities of mitigation resources, including vaccines, antiviral, administration capacities, and social distancing enforcement resources. The budget-based optimization model strives instead allocating a total resource budget. Both models seek to minimize the impact of ongoing outbreaks and the expected impact of potential outbreaks. The models incorporate measures of morbidity, mortality, and social distancing, translated into the societal and economic costs of lost productivity and medical expenses. The models were calibrated using historic pandemic data and implemented on a sample outbreak in Florida, with over four million inhabitants. The quantity-based model was found to be inferior to the budget-based model, which was advantageous in its ability to balance the varying relative cost and effectiveness of individual resources. The models are intended to assist public health policy makers in developing effective distribution policies for mitigation of influenza pandemics.
Complex and Envelope Covariance for Rician Fading Communication Channels

In practice, the measurement of the covariance function (which characterizes a time- and frequency-selective fading communication channel) involves envelope detecting the received signals before correlating. Envelope covariance is insufficient for an accurate evaluation of system performance and rather a complex covariance is needed. In this paper the relationship between complex covariance and envelope covariance for a Rician fading communication channel is derived. It includes the well-known case of Rayleigh fading. For the assumption of the symmetric power spectrum of the narrow-band random process there exists a monotonic relationship which allows the evaluation of the complex covariance once the envelope covariance is measured. The derived equation for the unsymmetric power spectrum is discussed. The results obtained show that the envelope covariance represents a lower bound of the magnitude of the complex covariance.
Practical quantum communications for telecom networks

We present latest results on developing telecom-band resources for practical quantum communications in wave-division-multiplexed optical networks. Progress on in-fiber entanglement generation/distribution and quantum-noise-randomized direct data encryption will be described.
Collaborating to Achieve Quality Work in a Minimal Processing Environment

The ACRL Rare Books and Manuscripts Section explored collaborative relationships at its 2010 preconference meeting in Philadelphia, with a specific aim of determining circumstances in which working together accomplishes more than working alone, and to suggest creative but practical solutions that can be applied to the challenges that archivists and special collections librarians are confronting. One such example is the Philadelphia Area Consortium of Special Collections Libraries’ (PACSCL) “Hidden Collections” Processing Project, a 27-month initiative that began in July 2009. None of what this project has accomplished to date could have been completed without the collaborative efforts made by the . . .
Possible observation of localized 4 f shell breakdown in praseodymium under pressure

A phase transition occurs in Pr at a pressure of 190 kbar and 300 K as seen from a precipitous resistance drop. In the low-P phase, the temperature dependence of the electrical resistivity is highly anomalous, the following features becoming more pronounced toward the transition. The temperature coefficient is extremely small between 300 K and 100 K. Below 50 K, the resistivity drops steeply. Both these features are well known for the γ and β phase of cerium. In contrast, the high-P phase exhibits a “normal”, i.e. an almost linear temperature characteristic as also observed for Ce in the “collapsed” α phase. We suggest that the phase transition in Pr may turn out to be a counterpart of the γ→α transformation in Ce which is now understood as the delocalization of the 4f1 configuration into a 4f band.
Coal-Fired, Closed-Cycle, Gas Turbine Cogeneration Systems

Cogeneration systems capable of utilizing our abundant coal resources are now especially attractive, as petroleum products are relatively expensive. However, coal-fired systems must inevitably cope with the abrasive and fouling character of the noncombustible ash content of all coals. This paper discusses the characteristics and cogeneration potential of the coal-fired, closed-cycle, gas turbine system (in which the working fluid is isolated from the products of coal combustion). Many closed-cycle, gas turbine thermodynamic cycles may be adapted to cogeneration. Parametric performance data are presented. The advantages of closed-cycle, gas turbine system/cogeneration cycles are explored, and comparisons are made between such systems and the more conventional steam-turbine based cogeneration cycles. The technology of closed-cycle fired heaters, including pulverized coal and fluidized bed firing is discussed. The key technical features of the fired heaters are discussed.Copyright © 1980 by ASME
Role of Surface Chemistry

The secondary role of porosity in ammonia removal was evidenced above for samples providing weak dispersive forces. An indication that surface chemistry is a controlling factor in this process was also underlined above and is investigated in more detail in this chapter. Surface chemistry can originate from the functional groups of the adsorbent tested and/or from new chemical species introduced to modify the initial adsorbent. In other words, it includes several parameters such as the type and amount of the functional groups and inorganic matter, or the acidity (pH, type/amount of acidic groups) of a material tested. Various techniques are available to evaluate these properties.