cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A foundation course in computer science

The discipline of computer science has matured to the extent that now it has become necessary to define a foundation course primarily designed for majors in computer science. Such a course will include an introduction to the basic areas to which these students are later on exposed at their junior and senior years. In particular, the syllabus may consist of five core areas: problem solving including algorithm design, development and testing; data structures including representation and implementation of arrays, stacks, queues, trees, lists and files; computer systems including traditional hardware and software concepts; program design and development including modern programming methodology, debugging and documentation; and finally the syntax and semantics of one or two programming languages. The duration of the course will be one full academic year for a total of 12 quarter or 8 semester credits of work. The course will assume an entry level equivalent to college algebra, computer literacy and collegiate maturity measured by completion of a total of about 32 quarter or an equivalent amount of semester credits of college level work.
Flow of a Newtonian fluid between eccentric rotating cylinders: Inertial effects

A detailed analysis is carried out of the flow of a Newtonian fluid in the annular region between two infinitely long circular cylinders with parallel axes, resulting from the uniform rotation of one, or both, of the cylinders about their axes. No restriction is placed on the geometry of the system and results are obtained both with the neglect of inertial effects and for the linearized inertial approximation. In both cases, the resultant of the forces exerted by the fluid on the cylinders and the distribution of their normal and tangential components over the cylinders are calculated, and the stream-line patterns are analyzed in some detail. A number of conditions, under which stagnation points, separation points and eddies can exist, are established.
Sri Lankan Tamil refugee experiences: A qualitative analysis

A significant number of Sri Lankan Tamils fled the violence unleashed during the civil war (1983–2009) between Tamils and the Sri Lankan government. The largest concentrations of Sri Lankan Tamils outside of Sri Lanka exist in Canada and India. The objective of this study is to examine the impact of pre-migration and post-migration experiences on Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in Canada and India. A total of 35 refugees participated in the qualitative study. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. About 28 participants were from Gummidipoondi refugee camps near Chennai, India, and seven were from Toronto, Canada. There were 22 males and 13 females. The content analysis revealed war-related complex distress among participants. Major themes identified were civil war, genocide and escape, settlement/Kudiyettam, the role of the United Nations and Refugee Board policies. The results of the study emphasize the distress caused by the civil war and the subsequent journey many refugees took to reach thei...
Multimodality in the TESOL Classroom: Exploring Visual-Verbal Synergy.

TESOL Quarterly invites commentary on current trends or practices in the TESOL profession. It also welcomes responses or rebuttals to any articles or remarks published here in The Forum or elsewhere in the Quarterly.
Novel Electrode Design for Potentially Painless Internal Defibrillation Also Allows for Successful External Defibrillation

Background: Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) save lives, but the defibrillation shocks delivered by these devices produce substantial pain, presumably due to skeletal muscle activation. In this study, we tested an electrode system composed of epicardial panels designed to shield skeletal muscles from internal defibrillation, but allow penetration of an external electric field to enable external defibrillation when required. Methods and Results: Eleven adult mongrel dogs were studied under general anesthesia. Internal defibrillation threshold (DFT) and shock-induced skeletal muscle force at various biphasic shock strengths were compared between two electrode configurations: (1) a transvenous coil placed in the right ventricle (RV) as cathode and a dummy can placed subcutaneously in the left infraclavicular fossa as anode (control configuration) and (2) RV coil as cathode and the multielectrode epicardial sock with the panels connected together as anode (sock-connected). External DFT was also tested with these electrode configurations, as well as with the epicardial sock present, but with panels disconnected from each other (sock-disconnected). Internal DFT was higher with sock-connected than control (24 ± 7 J vs. 16 ± 6 J, P < 0.02), but muscle contraction force at DFT was greatly reduced (1.3 ± 1.3 kg vs. 10.6 ± 2.2 kg, P < 0.0001). External defibrillation was never successful, even at 360 J, with sock-connected, while always possible with sock-disconnected. Conclusion: Internal defibrillation with greatly reduced skeletal muscle stimulation can be achieved using a novel electrode system that also preserves the ability to externally defibrillate when required. This system may provide a means for painless ICD therapy.
Effects of lesions of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in newborn rats on susceptibility to seizures.

The cholinergic system modulates cerebral excitability. We recently reported that immunolesions of the basal forebrain (BF) cholinergic neurons in adult rats increase the susceptibility to generalized seizures. In this study we investigated the effects of lesions of the BF cholinergic neurons in neonatal rats on seizure susceptibility and cognitive function. Neonatal rats at postnatal day (P) 7 received intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injections of 192 IgG-saporin (SAP) or phosphate-buffered saline. Following 3 weeks after the injection the first group of rats was implanted with hippocampal electrodes for electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings while the second group of rats was tested for visual spatial memory using the hidden platform version of the water maze test. The first group of rats was then tested for seizure susceptibility using flurothyl 1 week after the electrode implantation. Rats that received immunolesions of the BF cholinergic neurons at P7 had significantly shorter latencies to onset of myoclonic jerks and tonic-clonic seizures than controls. However, no significant differences were found in the duration of seizures, or EEG ictal duration. No significant deficits in spatial learning were found between rats that received i.c.v. injections of SAP at P7 and controls. As in adult rats, lesions of the BF cholinergic system in rat pups result in subsequent increase in seizure susceptibility.
Earthquakes: Human-induced shaking

In 2011, a modest earthquake in southern Spain seriously damaged the city of Lorca. Analysis of surface deformation suggests that the quake was caused by rupture of a shallow fault patch brought closer to failure by the pumping of water from a nearby aquifer.
Preliminary In Vitro Estimates of Intra-Aneurysmal Void Sizes After Endovascular Coiling

Endovascular coiling has become a well-established treatment method for cerebral aneurysms. The primary drawback of the technique is aneurysm recanalization requiring periodic angiographic follow-ups and possible aneurysm re-treatment. A recent review [1] estimates that 20% of treated aneurysms re-canalize and that half of those aneurysms (10%) are re-treated. Aneurysm recanalization is, in turn, largely caused by compaction of the coil mass due to hemodynamic impingement forces every cardiac cycle. Currently, the only quantitative measure used to characterize effectiveness of the treatment is the aneurysm packing density (ratio of total volume of coils inserted into the aneurysm and the volume of the aneurysm). Lower packing densities have been correlated with higher coil compaction rates [2], so aneurysms are generally coiled to maximal packing. A wider aneurysm neck is also correlated with higher coil-compaction rates. Coiling in such wide-neck aneurysms is performed either with the support of a balloon that is removed post-coiling or with the support of an intracranial stent that is implanted. Such assist devices also improve aneurysm packing densities [3].Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Comparative Studies on the Nucleotide Sequence of Cucumber Mosaic Virus RNA3 between Y Strain and Q Strain

The complete nucleotide sequence of cucumber mosaic virus RNA3 of Y strain has been determined and was compared with the reported sequence of RNA3 of Q strain. The sequence of Y strain provided the amino acid sequences of two proteins: the 5'-terminal 3A protein with 279 amino acids and the 3'-terminal viral coat protein with 218 amino acids, while 3A and coat proteins of CMV-Q have been reported to have 333 and 236 amino acids, respectively. The 3'-terminal region of Y strain can be arranged into the secondary structures similar to those proposed for that of Q strain, although there are considerable differences in sequence.
Fellowship training in medical toxicology: characteristics, perceptions, and career impact.

Study Objective: To determine the number of physicians who have received fellowship training in medical toxicology and to describe fellowship-trained medical toxicologists' perceptions of fellowship training and its career impact. Methods: All current medical toxicology fellowship directors were contacted by mail for information on who had trained at their program. Subsequently, a written survey was mailed to all current American College of Medical Toxicology members regarding work force and educational issues pertaining to medical toxicology. Fellowship-trained toxicologists were asked about their clinical and research experiences during fellowship, and career impact of toxicology fellowship training. Results: Fellowship directors from 21 programs reported that 147 physicians had completed a toxicology fellowship since 1970. Of the 236 current American College of Medical Toxicology members surveyed, 160 (68%) responded. Ninety-four of the 160 (59%) are fellowship trained. Sixty-four of the 94 (68%) fello...
Characterization of the pigment in pink sporidial colonies of Ustilago violacea as cytochrome c

The pigment of a pink strain of Ustilago violacea 1.C429 was associated with the mitochondria isolated on a sucrose gradient. The extracted red pigment was identified as cytochrome c by spectral analysis and by oxidation with cytochrome c oxidase from rat liver mitochondria. The pink strain accumulated at least tenfold more cytochrome c than a white strain. Zn2+ enhanced cytochrome c production in a white strain by 75%.
Optical properties of the Kuwait oil fires smoke plume as determined using an airborne lidar system: Preliminary results from 28 and 29 May 1991 case studies

An inversion algorithm is used to derive extinction coefficient profiles and total optical depth values from lidar data collected during a study of the Kuwait oil fires smoke plume. Extinction coefficients derived from infrared (IR) wavelength lidar data and green wavelength lidar data are found to be in the range 0.06–1.30 km−1 and 0.06–1.60 km−1 respectively, for a plume cross section study flown on 28 May 1991. Corresponding total optical depth values are determined to be ∼0.05–1.00 for the IR wavelength and ∼0.05–1.20 for the green. The lidar-derived extinction coefficient and total optical depth results are found to be in agreement with previously published data on the optical properties of the smoke plume. Finally, total optical depth results derived from both lidar and optical particle counter (OPC) data are compared for a plume study flown on 29 May 1991, and agreement is found to be within expected uncertainty limits.
Similar effects of roux-en-Y gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy on glucose regulation in rats

Bariatric surgery is the most efficacious procedure for eliciting weight loss in humans, and many patients undergoing the procedure experience significant lessening of their symptoms of type-2 diabetes in addition to losing weight. We have adapted two bariatric surgical procedures commonly employed in humans to a rat model to begin to understand the mechanisms underlying the improvements in energy homeostasis. Young adult male rats received either roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) and were assessed for body weight, food intake and parameters of glucose homeostasis over a 28-week period. Control rats received either a sham surgical procedure or else were unoperated. RYGB and VSG had comparable beneficial effects relative to controls. They ate less food and lost more weight, and they both had improved glucose parameters. The most intriguing aspect of the findings is that the two surgical procedures had such similar effects in spite of quite different rearrangements of the gastrointestinal system.
Patch Volumes: Segmentation-Based Consistent Mapping with RGB-D Cameras

Recent advances have allowed for the creation of dense, accurate 3D maps of indoor environments using RGB-D cameras. Some techniques are able to create large-scale maps, while others focus on accurate details using GPU-accelerated volumetric representations. In this work we describe patch volumes, a novel multiple-volume representation which enables the creation of globally consistent maps of indoor environments beyond the capabilities of previous high-accuracy volumetric representations.
Scaling Criteria for Nuclear Reactor Thermal Hydraulics

Concerns about nuclear power plant safety have stimulated research in thermal hydraulics of reactor cooling systems. Complementary efforts in computer code development and in experiments using scal...
Solution structure of cryptdin-4, a mouse paneth cell alpha-defensin.

Mammalian defensins are abundant antimicrobial peptides that contribute to host defense. They are characterized by several conserved amino acids, including six invariant cysteine residues which form three intramolecular disulfide bonds and stabilize the tertiary structure. Cryptdin-4 (Crp4), a mouse α-defensin with potent in vitro bactericidal activity, has a primary structure distinct from all known α-defensins in that its polypeptide backbone uniquely lacks three residues between CysIV and CysV. NMR diffusion experiments showed that Crp4 is monomeric in solution, and its three-dimensional solution structure, determined by two-dimensional proton NMR, consists of a triple-stranded antiparallel β-sheet with the β-strands joined to each other by a series of tight turns and a β-hairpin. However, the overall β-sheet content in Crp4 is lower than that of other α-defensin structures, while the shape and orientation of the Crp4 β-hairpin also differ from those of other α-defensin structures. These structural cha...
The interactive effects of social dominance orientation, group status, and perceived stability on favoritism for high-status groups

Two studies examined the interactive effects of social dominance orientation (SDO), group status, and perceived stability on various manifestations of favoritism for high-status groups: (1) an anal...
Problem-Solving Networks in Organizations: Intentional Design and Emergent Structure

Abstract Although formal designs and networks of ties are both hypothesized to affect organizational processes, there have been few relational studies of their effects on the flow of information within organizations. Using an innovative method for tracing information through organizations, the authors followed problems as they were passed among personnel in a hospital. Propositions are developed about the role of formal position and networks of ties on the processing of information.
Nausea induced by mental images of chemotherapy

Background. Although anecdotal reports indicate that patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy can become nauseated outside the chemotherapy clinic when they think or talk about treatment, this phenomenon has not been investigated systematically. Methods. A series of experimental analyses with individual patients was conducted to explore the possibility that mental images of chemotherapy can elicit nausea in patients who, during the course of their treatment, experienced nausea in anticipation of chemotherapy infusions. Occurrence and intensity of nausea were examined in each patient in response to three imagery scenes: pastoral, a nonchemotherapy medical procedure, and chemotherapy. Results. Eight of 10 patients with clinically documented histories of anticipatory nausea to clinic stimuli experienced nausea when they imagined chemotherapy. They did not become nauseated when they imagined nonchemotherapy medical procedures. For the four patients without prior anticipatory nausea, imaginal reexposure to chemotherapy did not elicit nausea. Conclusions. Results provide evidence that mental images of chemotherapy elicit nausea in patients with histories of anticipatory nausea and suggest that cognitive factors may play a more important role in the occurrence of chemotherapy side effects than previously recognized. Cancer 1993; 72:629-36.
Liouville‐Dirichlet Distributions

This article has no abstract. Keywords: Liouville-Dirichlet; multivariate Liouville distributions
Chloride-dependent sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release correlates with increased Ca2+ activation of ryanodine receptors

The mechanism by which chloride increases sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ permeability was investigated. In the presence of 3 microM Ca2+, Ca2+ release from 45Ca(2+)-loaded SR vesicles prepared from procine skeletal muscle was increased approximately 4-fold when the media contained 150 mM chloride versus 150 mM propionate, whereas in the presence of 30 nM Ca2+, Ca2+ release was similar in the chloride- and the propionate-containing media. Ca(2+)-activated [3H]ryanodine binding to skeletal muscle SR was also increased (2- to 10-fold) in media in which propionate or other organic anions were replaced with chloride; however, chloride had little or no effect on cardiac muscle SR 45Ca2+ release or [3H]ryanodine binding. Ca(2+)-activated [3H]ryanodine binding was increased approximately 4.5-fold after reconstitution of skeletal muscle RYR protein into liposomes, and [3H]ryanodine binding to reconstituted RYR protein was similar in chloride- and propionate-containing media, suggesting that the sensitivity of the RYR protein to changes in the anionic composition of the media may be diminished upon reconstitution. Together, our results demonstrate a close correlation between chloride-dependent increases in SR Ca2+ permeability and increased Ca2+ activation of skeletal muscle RYR channels. We postulate that media containing supraphysiological concentrations of chloride or other inorganic anions may enhance skeletal muscle RYR activity by favoring a conformational state of the channel that exhibits increased activation by Ca2+ in comparison to the Ca2+ activation exhibited by this channel in native membranes in the presence of physiological chloride (
Relations Among Fault Behavior, Subsurface Geology, and Three-Dimensional Velocity Models

The development of three-dimensional P-wave velocity models for the regions surrounding five large earthquakes in California has lead to the recognition of relations among fault behavior and the material properties of the rocks that contact the fault at seismogenic depths; regions of high moment release appear to correlate with high seismic velocities whereas rupture initiation or termination may be associated with lower seismic velocities. These relations point toward a physical understanding of why faults are divided into segments that can fail independently, an understanding that could improve our ability to predict earthquakes and strong ground motion.
A New Approach to Tunable Resonant Circuits for the 300- to 3000-Mc Frequency Range

The development of the use of distributed constants and of discontinuities, in lines of fixed length, for the design of resonant circuits at frequencies between 300 and 3000 Mc is discussed. Various types of these circuits and their characteristics are shown with an indication of their advantages and disadvantages when used as variable frequency elements.
Modelling of dislocation mobility controlled brittle-to-ductile transition

Abstract The phenomenon of brittle-to-ductile transition (BDT) is known to be controlled by the competition between cleavage fracture and dislocation activity at crack tips, but the transition could be determined by one of the two successive processes, dislocation nucleation or dislocation motion. In this paper a model is developed to study the BDT controlled by dislocation mobility. The model material is assumed to undergo elastic rate-dependent plastic deformation, with the plastic strain rate scaled with dislocation velocity. An isotropic plasticity theory is used. The BDT is assumed to occur when the crack tip is shielded by the surrounding plastic zone such that it never reaches the critical stress intensity for cleavage fracture. The crack tip shielding due to plastic deformation is evaluated using the finite element method. The dimensionless groups that affect the BDT are identified, and a parametric study is performed to reveal the effects of various dimensionless parameters. Numerical results using the specific material properties of Si single crystals are compared with experimental data. Good agreements are obtained. Some interesting features of the BDT behaviour are predicted by our computer simulations which require further confirmation by experimental studies.
A review of submicron lithography

Abstract The techniques of submicron lithography are reviewed with special attention to the sub-100 nm region and the needs of university research. We show that high contrast resists or contrast-enhancement schemes are crucial if one is to extend the useful range of lithographic techniques to near their resolution limits. Resist sensitivity must be properly chosen in order to avoid line-edge uncertainty due to shot noise. Optical projection lithography is readily extended into the deep submicron region, in part because of the statistical advantage of low energy photons. Holographic lithography is the preferred technique for periodic and quasi-periodic patterns, at least down to 0.1 μm linewidths. The high capital and operating costs of scanning-electron-beam lithography (SEBL), are significant impediments to expanded research on applications of artificial microstructures in the submicron and sub-100 nm regions. Replication techniques, such as soft-contact photolithography, x-ray lithography and masked-ion-beam lithography do not have the flexibility of SEBL but they have good throughput and are low cost, convenient and effective. These replication techniques could greatly facilitate sub-100 nm research if methods of gap control and sub-30 nm alignment were available.
Final state interactions in decays of the exotic π 1 meson

We analyze the role of final state interactions (FSI) in decay of the lightest exotic meson, with ${J}^{PC}={1}^{\ensuremath{-}+}{\ensuremath{\pi}}_{1}$. We use the relativistic Lippmann-Schwinger equation for two coupled $\ensuremath{\pi}{b}_{1}$ and $\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{\rho}$ channels. The first one is the predicted dominant decay mode of the ${\ensuremath{\pi}}_{1}$, whereas in the other a narrow ${\ensuremath{\pi}}_{1}(1600)$ exotic signal has been reported by the E852 collaboration. The FSI potential is constructed, based on the $\ensuremath{\omega}$ meson exchange between the two channels. We find that this process introduces corrections to the ${\ensuremath{\pi}}_{1}$ widths of the order of only a few MeV. Therefore, we conclude that a substantial $\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{\rho}$ mode cannot be generated through level mixing.
Risk and Protective Factors for Adolescent Substance Use: Findings from a Study in Selected Central American Countries

Abstract Purpose To identify the prevalence of substance use and problems with use, and risk and protective factors at different levels of the adolescent's ecology associated with substance use among adolescents in selected Central American countries. Methods Results of a survey of 17,215 students from Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala conducted in 2000–2001 served as the basis for the analyses. Lifetime use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and five other drugs (inhalants, tranquilizers, cocaine, crack, and ecstasy), and problems with drugs and alcohol were the outcome variables. Risk factors included dysregulation, family problems with drugs/alcohol, negative family interactions, school disengagement, peer deviance, and exposure to community violence. Protective factors included a personal belief in God, positive family interactions, parent religiosity, and positive student-teacher interaction. Both hierarchical linear regression and logistic regression analyses were used to model main and interaction effects of risk and protective factors. Results There was a linear association between number of risk and protective factors and substance use, however, risk factors were more strongly associated with substance use than were protective factors. There were significant risk-by-protective-factor interactions for alcohol and marijuana use, and for problems with drugs and alcohol. Risk interacted most consistently with a personal belief in God, but also with parent religiosity and with student-teacher communication. Conclusions It is important to consider risk and protective factors at different levels of an adolescent's ecology. Prevention and intervention efforts should focus on interactions adolescents have in different microsystems (e.g., with parents, teachers, and peers).
Holarctic distribution of the leafminer parasitoid Diglyphus begini (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) and notes on its life history attacking Liriomyza trifolii (Diptera: Agromyzidae) in chrysanthemum.

Diglyphus begini (Ashmead) is an important parasitoid of several Liriomyza spp. commonly infesting agricultural crops. Host records include 13 species of leafminers from two families of Diptera in 25 host species from 12 plant families. Adult longevity, female fecundity and host killing, larval developmental time, and sex allocation by individual wasps were examined under greenhouse conditions using L. trifolii (Burgess) in chrysanthemum as the host. Adult wasps exhibited a Type II survivorship; life expectancy at emergence for females was 6.3 d compared with 3.4 d for males. The net reproductive rate was 5.9 ovipositions per female, with the majority of ovipositions occurring between days 2 and 5 after emergence, and the mean generation time was 21.7 d at 24.1°C. Adult longevity and female fecundity were positively correlated with parasite body size. Most hosts were killed but were not used for oviposition during days 1 and 2 of a female's life; later, 1.3 hosts were killed for every host used for oviposition. A heavily male-biased sex ratio (mean, 72%) was produced by female wasps. Biological parameters were used to suggest the most efficient use of D. begini in an inundative biological control program.
Influence of poly A-poly U on early events in the immune response in vitro☆

Abstract Adjuvant action of artificial homopolyribonucleotides and nucleic acid digests was studied in mouse spleen-cell cultures, stimulated with sheep red cells by the technique of Mishell and Dutton. Assays of antibody-forming cells were performed according to the Jerne and Nordin technique. Doublestranded poly A-poly U, and RNA digests had adjuvant activity over a wide dose range (0.01–100 μg/ml). DNA digests, single stranded polynucleotides (poly A, poly U, poly C) and mixtures of ribonucleosides and ribonucleotides had little or no enhancing effect at comparable doses. From our study of the kinetics of increase of plaque-forming cells in cultures treated with poly A-poly U, in conjunction with in vivo studies of others, we concluded that adjuvant action, during induction, indirectly increased the number of bone marrow-derived cells that responded to antigenic stimulation by increasing the effectiveness of the thymus-derived cells in the culture.
Characteristics of fifth-grade children in relation to the type of after-school care

Does the type of after-school care affect a fifth-grade child's self-perception, substance use, or school performance/attendance? Children in three types of care, self (n=28), sibling (n=20), and adult (n=106), were recruited to address this question. Data were obtained via the Self-Perception Profile, self-report of risk-taking behavior, and school records. Self-care was significantly more prevalent in Caucasian (23%) and Hispanic (19%) families. No significant differences were found across care groups in self perception, academic performance, or attendance. Ten to twelve percent of children reported substance use in each care group, though the type of substance use differed across care group. These data suggest that type of after-school care is not related to increased risk but may be related to type of substance use.
Another Proof That R 3 Has No Square Root

In a recent article in this MONTHLY [2], Robert Fokkink presented an interesting proof that Euclidean 3-space 1R3 has no square root, meaning that R3 is not homeomorphic to the Cartesian product of any space with itself. This answered a question of Jan Aarts. The proof in [2] is based on the fact that if h is a homeomorphism of RI" onto IR", then the composition h o h is orientation-preserving. Our purpose here is to give a proof of the fact that R 3 has no square root from a completely different point of view, namely, by employing basic geometric results from dimension theory (we note that the proof in [2] extends to showing that RI has no square root for all odd n, whereas our proof is valid only for RR3). Ideas in our proof may be useful in obtaining answers to the question we pose after we prove the theorem. We give a simple illustration of the use of our ideas after we state the question. We use dim to denote topological dimension [4] and x to signify Cartesian product. An arc is a space that is homeomorphic to the closed unit interval [0, 1]. An n-cell is a space that is homeomorphic to the Cartesian product of n arcs; we denote an n-cell by I. In the interest of readability, we list pertinent results from dimension theory in the order in which we first refer to them in the proof of our theorem:
205 CYCLIC AMP AND cGMP: URINARY EXCRETION FROM BIRTH TO ADULTHOOD

1427 random urine specimens of 135 patients (age: newborn (NB) to 22 years) were analyzed for cAMP, cGMP, creatinine. Results in nanomoles/mg creatinine were on (*) single urine samples (-highest/lowest-values); others as mean values; and, for AGE; time of day -DAY: By age 15y adult nucleotide concentration is attained at approx. 25% of newborn values. Statistical correlation between cAMP and cGMP for age was r = 0.96; for time of day r = 0.69; and none for sex. Extreme values occurred in complex disease states. cAMP high: intractable diarrhea; low: progressive CNS disease. cGMP high: multiple sulfatase deficiency; low: Reye's syndrome. Extremes may reflect pathophysiologic mechanisms in these conditions. Mean “normal” values served to assess nucleotide response (or lack of it) to glucagon or PTH in diseases such as glycogenoses or pseudohypoparathyroidism.
Ford gets $11.8 million for GOES ground control

Ford Aerospace Corporation in College Park, Md., has been awarded an $11.8-million contract to develop, build, and maintain a command and telemetry system for the new class of Geostationary Observational Environmental Satellite (GOES) weather satellites that Ford is building for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Numerical simulation of GNSS code tracking loops using Euler-Maruyama method

The Euler-Maruyama (EM) method for the numerical integration of stochastic differential equations is applied to simulate tracking loops for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals. Use of a large step size and two-point pseudorandom numbers allow for computationally efficient simulation of statistics such as the mean time to lose lock (MTLL). To demonstrate this method, non-coherent delay-lock loops are simulated using the EM method. The MTLL computed from an ensemble of 50 sample paths is compared to a numerical integration of the Fokker-Plank equation. The dependence of computational time and error on step size is evaluated.
Thermodynamic Analysis and Purification for Source Materials in Sublimation Crystal Growth of Aluminum Nitride

Source material purification according to a thermodynamic analysis is reported for the sublimation crystal growth of aluminum nitride in an inert reactor. OAlOH is strongly favored over all other possible oxygen containing compounds in both the Al-O-H-N and Al-O-H-C-N systems, while Al2O, proved to be the most favorable oxygen containing gas species for Al-O-N system in previous study, become secondary favorable gas species. A low temperature (<1200 °C) treatment is effective in eliminating oxygen and hydrogen from the source powder. Carbon monoxide is another important oxygen containing gas species in the Al-O-H-C-N system, and is favored over Al2O at certain temperature and pressure. Carbothermal reduction with intentionally added carbon (graphite) can further reduce the oxygen concentration. Experiments show that high-temperature sintering minimizes the oxygen concentration and reduces the specific surface area of the source. With only 5.5% of mass loss, the purification produced a source with low O, H, and C concentrations of 0.018 wt%, 6ppm, and 0.006wt%.
Convexifying optimal power flow: Recent advances in OPF solution methods

The optimal power flow (OPF) problem is nonconvex and generally hard to solve, see e.g. [1], [2]. In this tutorial, we will provide an overview of two different solution approaches. The first uses the bus injection model, which is the standard model for power flow analysis and optimization. It focuses on nodal variables such as voltages, current and power injections and does not directly deal with power flows on individual branches. A key advantage is the simple linear relationship I = Y V between the nodal current injections I and the bus voltages V through the admittance matrix Y. Recently, it has been observed that this form of OPF can be reformulated as a nonconvex QCQP (quadratic constrained quadratic program), which leads to a standard convex relaxation through semidefinite programming [3]-[5]. For radial networks, different sufficient conditions have been derived under which the semidefinite relaxation turns out to be exact [6]-[8]. The second solution technique employs the branch flow model, which focuses on currents and powers on the branches rather than the nodal variables. The branch flow model has been historically used primarily for modeling distribution circuits, which tend to be radial. It has therefore received far less attention. A branch flow model has recently been proposed for the analysis and optimization of mesh as well as radial networks. The model leads to a new approach to solving OPF that consists of two relaxation steps. The first step eliminates the voltage and current angles and the second step approximates the resulting problem by a conic program that can be solved efficiently. For radial networks, both relaxation steps are always exact, provided there are no upper bounds on loads [9]. For mesh networks, the conic relaxation is always exact and we provide a simple way to determine if a relaxed solution is globally optimal. We describe a simple method to convexify a mesh network using phase shifters so that both relaxation steps are always exact and OPF for the convexified network can always be solved efficiently for a globally optimal solution. We prove that convexification requires phase shifters only outside a spanning tree of the network graph and their placement depends only on network topology, not on power flows, generation, loads, or operating constraints [10]. The tutorial will describe precisely the bus injection model and the semidefinite relaxation of OPF as well as the branch flow model and its associated relaxations. We prove sufficient conditions for exact relaxations and verify our results on simulations of various IEEE test systems. Finally we explain the equivalence between the bus injection model and branch flow model.
CYTOLOGICAL AND AUTORADIOGRAPHIC STUDIES IN SCIARA COPROPHILA SALIVARY GLAND CHROMOSOMES.

Morphological and metabolic changes on the salivary chromosomes of Sciara coprophila were followed during the later half of the fourth larval instar.
Childhood sexual abuse characteristics, intimate partner violence exposure, and psychological distress among women in methadone treatment

Traumatic experiences and their biopsychosocial sequelae present complex challenges in substance use treatment. For women with substance use problems, childhood sexual abuse (CSA), intimate partner violence exposure (IPV), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and overall psychological distress are often co-occurring concerns. To address gaps in knowledge and to strengthen practice regarding these critical issues in substance use treatment, we drew upon cross-sectional and longitudinal data from baseline and 12-month interviews with a random sample of 416 women in methadone treatment to examine relationships between CSA characteristics, particularly the presence of force and involvement of family, IPV, and mental health concerns. Although CSA involving force and family was not associated with IPV as hypothesized, it was associated with increased risk of PTSD and overall psychological distress. The multivariate findings underscore the psychological vulnerabilities associated with CSA involving force and family and suggest that drug use and financial circumstances may be important targets to reduce IPV risk.
Three-dimensional and four-dimensional modeling of biological material

3D biomedical data obtained through tomography provide exceptional views of the interior structure of biological material. While visualization is one of the primary purposes for obtaining these data, other more sophisticated uses are possible. These include simulation of physical processes, interactive surgical investigation, modeling of tissue interrelationships, and analysis of dynamics. Visualization is merely the first contribution of computers to the display and analysis of these image data. Techniques are being developed to facilitate such advanced uses of 3D and 4D tomographic data.
An Innovative Fuel Cell Theory, Testing and Manufacturing Course

A unique course in the theory, testing and manufacturing of fuel cells has been developed at Arizona State University in the College of Technology and Applied Sciences. The course is designed for the engineering technology graduate students, but is also accessible to advanced undergraduates. The interdisciplinary nature of the course necessitates a team-teaching approach, and faculty with backgrounds in electrochemistry, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering deliver portions of the course. The course includes a theoretical portion, but also contains a comprehensive practical portion in which the students build a membrane electrode assembly and assemble, test and characterize this assembly as a single stage proton exchange membrane fuel cell. Feedback from the students indicates a great deal of excitement over the course, and has resulted in several students deciding to concentrate their graduate work in the fuel cell area. The paper describes the first course offering in the spring of 2003.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Predicting residual stresses in steady-state forming processes

Abstract A two-dimensional, Eulerian finite element formulation for modeling isotropic, elasto-viscoplastic, steady-state deformations which is capable of predicting residual stresses is presented in this paper. This problem is solved in two parts, namely, solution of the boundary value problem by a mixed finite element formulation for the velocity and pressure fields, and integration of the constitutive equations along pathlines across the domain. In this formulation, a discontinuous pressure field is used in the finite element formulation to reduce the system of equations to a system for only the velocity field. A new method for integrating the constitutive equations is also presented which improves the efficiency of the algorithm.
Process control and improvement: prediction of process parameters for intelligent control of freezing tunnels using simulation

Various analytical and empirical methods assuming the existence of steady state and requiring homogenous properties of the product have been used with limited success in estimating freezing times in the food processing industry. Irrespective of the method adopted for estimating freezing time requirements, a critical process issue that needs to be considered is that of system control. Simulation models suggest that a feed-forward control strategy, as discussed in this paper, can be used to control a freezing tunnel and obtain considerable energy savings while ensuring 'appropriate' freezing of all products. The control strategy discussed in this paper, involves the continuous monitoring of product input and controlling either or both of the refrigerant flow and conveyor speed. The primary objective of this paper is to demonstrate the use of simulation to predict process parameters for 'intelligent control' of freezing tunnels, and provide an estimate of potential energy savings.
Tropical plumes and extreme precipitation in subtropical and tropical West Africa

Three cases of extreme precipitation in October, January and March/April over subtropical north-western and tropical West Africa have been selected in order to study the moisture transports, precipitation generation mechanisms and large-scale dynamics involved. All cases show strong tropical–extratropical interactions and elongated cloud bands extending from the Tropics into the subtropics, usually referred to as tropical plumes (TPs). Investigations are based on observational data and high-resolution output from simulations using the University of Wisconsin–Nonhydrostatic Modeling System. Trajectory analyses show that moisture is transported from the tropical easterly mid-level flow, the monsoonal southerlies and the north-easterly trade winds to provide precipitable water and potential instability at mid-tropospheric levels. The instability is released through ascent related both to weak quasi-geostrophic forcing to the east of an upper-level trough and to the strong, inertially unstable and highly divergent upper-level subtropical jet (STJ) accompanying the TP. In the January and March cases the passage of a precursor upper-level trough over the same location precedes the development and initiates the moisture transport from the deep Tropics. The associated north-westerly cold advection supports the generation of precipitation by triggering convection over the tropical Atlantic Ocean, whose outflow feeds into the STJ over Africa, and by enhancing the vertical mass transport within the intertropical discontinuity over and near West Africa. In October, when the still active African monsoon facilitates the extraction of tropical moisture, a wave in the tropical easterlies and strong trade winds from the southern hemisphere are dominant factors. Low-level cyclogenesis and frontogenesis only play roles in the late stages of the developments. The elongated, mostly positively tilted potential-vorticity (PV) streamers associated with the observed troughs form as a result of an equatorward transport of high-PV air downstream of a large ridge over the North Atlantic. The rapid amplification of the ridge is achieved through a combination of negative horizontal PV advection and diabatic reduction of upper-level PV through latent heating within a cloud band that forms in connection with an explosive baroclinic development near the east coast of North America. Copyright © 2005 Royal Meteorological Society
Spermatogenesis and spermatophore production in the hawaiian red lobster Enoplometopus occidentalis (Randall) (Crustacea, nephropidae).

Light microscopy of the male reproductive tract of the Hawaiian red lobster Enoplometopus occidentalis documented the cyclic nature of spermatogenesis and spermatophore formation. Testes are composed of a convoluted collecting tubule bearing many spermatogenic follicles, all within a supporting mesentery. Spermatogonia are restricted to the basal side of the follicular epithelium and proliferate at onset of spermateleosis within the same follicle. Two generations of spermatogenic cells thus occupy each follicle, and accessory cells in the follicle form a basophilic epithelium between them. These accessory cells may detach with the spermatozoa at spermiation. The vas deferens lies outside the testicular mesentery and consists of a coiled proximal portion in which spermatophore production commences. Clusters of spermatozoa are here surrounded by a PAS-positive primary spermatophore layer, and a PAS-negative outer bounding layer is initiated. Completed further distally in the vas deferens, the outer bounding layer is thinner on the side of the spermatophore which adheres to the substratum after ejaculation; the thick side of this layer forms a broad cap. Outer circular and inner longitudinal muscular layers become well developed in the distal loop and descending portions of the vas deferens. The terminal portion of this duct contains no spermatophore prior to ejaculation. It has a longitudinally folded epithelium and an attached tubular gland which produces an extra-spermatophoral, gelatinous secretion. The androgenic gland is associated with this terminal segment of the vas deferens. These features are compared with those reported for other lobsters.
Necrotizing fasciitis and evisceration complicating an inferiorly based epigastric TRAM flap

The rectus abdommis myocutaneous flap, based on the deep inferior epigastric vessels, is an excellent flap for reconstructing large wounds of the groin and perineum. However, wound infection in the donor site is a potential complication, even with thorough preparation of the recipient site. We present one such case in a diabetic patient who developed a necrotizing fasciitis and evisceration following transfer of an inferiorly based myocutaneous flap.
Protein Corona and Secondary Structure in Response to Nanoparticle Pegylation

Nanoparticles are versatile tools for biophysical applications. Using these particles requires a close examination of the protein corona: the layer of proteins that adsorbs onto the particle surface. Modifying nanoparticle surfaces with polyethylene glycol (PEG) has been shown to reduce corona formation. Because tightly bound ‘hard’ corona proteins can block surface ligands that could be used in targeting applications, a reduction in corona is desirable and can enhance our ability to effectively utilize nanoparticle surface modifications. First, gold nanoparticles were PEGylated and characterized with dynamic light scattering. Using gel electrophoresis, a three-fold decrease in corona formation was found for PEGylated nanoparticles compared to bare nanoparticles. With a reduction of corona confirmed, we next investigated the secondary structure of the corona proteins. PEGylated and bare nanoparticles were incubated with bovine serum albumin, the most prevalent serum protein. Using CD spectroscopy, we probed the secondary structure of the adsorbed albumin. Significant structural changes were not detected. In addition, bovine serum albumin, α2-macroglobulin, and transferrin were each incubated with free PEG. Once again, no alteration of protein secondary structures were found, even in the presence of a one hundred molar excess of free PEG. These results conclude that PEG can quantitatively reduce corona formation without altering structural aspects of corona proteins.