cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Morphology and mechanical properties of glass fiber reinforced Nylon 6 nanocomposites

Abstract Nylon 6 composites containing both an organoclay and glass fibers as fillers were prepared by melt processing. The aspect ratios of the glass fibers and the clay platelets were determined by electron microscopy techniques. The aspect ratio of each type of filler decreased as filler loading increased. A two particle population model for the tensile modulus was constructed based on the Mori–Tanaka composite theory. The experimental levels of reinforcement appear to be reasonably consistent with model predictions when changes in particle aspect ratios are accounted for. The tensile strength increases and elongation at break decreases as the content of either filler increases according to expected trends. Izod impact strength increased with glass fiber content but decreased with clay content.
Note on characteristic polynomials

It is sometimes useful to know the norm of a 2 x 2 complex matrix A as an operator on 2-dimensional complex Eucidean space. The standard method for computing this is to take the square root of the largest root of the polynomial det(A*A + AI) ([3], p. 17). The method is cumbersome for higher order matrices, but there is a striking general identity for det(A *A + AI) that is evidently not well known.
Discovery of a nonpeptidic small molecule antagonist of the human platelet thrombin receptor (PAR-1).

Abstract The synthesis and biological evaluation of a series of nonpeptidic small molecule antagonists of the human platelet thrombin receptor (PAR-1) are described. Optimization of the 5-amino-3-arylisoxazole lead resulted in an approximate 100-fold increase in potency. The most potent of these compounds (54) inhibits platelet activation with IC50s of 90 nM against the thrombin receptor agonist peptide (TRAP) and 510 nM against thrombin as the agonist. Further, antagonist 54 fully blocks platelet aggregation stimulated by 1 nM thrombin for 10 min.
Decentralized detection in censoring sensor networks under correlated observations

The majority of optimal rules derived for different decentralized detection application scenarios are based on an assumption that the sensors' observations are statistically independent. Deriving the optimal decision rule in the canonical decentralized setting with correlated observations was shown to be complicated even for the simple case of two sensors. We introduce an alternative suboptimal rule to deal with correlated observations in decentralized detection with censoring sensors using a modified generalized likelihood ratio test (mGLRT). In the censoring scheme, sensors either send or do not send their complete observations to the fusion center. Using ML estimation to estimate the censored values, the decentralized problem is converted to a centralized problem. Our simulation results indicate that, when sensor observations are correlated, the mGLRT gives considerably better performance in terms of probability of detection than does the optimal decision rule derived for uncorrelated observations.
The status of US allergy/immunology physicians in the 21st century: A report from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Workforce Committee

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology has tracked the US allergy/immunology physician workforce (AIPW) over the past 3 decades by funding 2 workforce surveys (1999, 2004). Results have demonstrated both accomplishments of and challenges for the US AIPW. Accomplishments include increases in diversity (25% women in 2004, 20% in 1999, 10% in 1989; 6% underrepresented minorities in 2004, 5% in 1999), 95% of AIPW has completed an allergy/immunology (A/I) training program, and 91% are American Board of Allergy and Immunology (a conjoint board of the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Pediatrics)–certified (90% in 1999). Training positions and program numbers are slowly increasing, and numbers of new graduates from accredited A/I programs have also increased. We are seeing patients with more complex allergic and immune diseases and giving less allergen immunotherapy. Personal, professional, and economic satisfaction is increasing. Challenges relate primarily to diminishing practitioner supply (4245 in 2004 vs 4356 in 1999) amid growing US population demand. The AIPW is gradually aging (the average age is 53 years in 2004, compared with 51 years in 1999) and working longer before retiring. The combination of job satisfaction, the high demand for A/I services, and the large number of fellowship applicants all support expanding the supply of trained allergists/immunologists.
Improved SOA in low cost power transistor

Recent theories on second breakdown are reviewed. A simple concept on avalanche injection is proposed. The condition of distributed series resistance on stability factor analysis is discussed. An ingenious Motorola patent to realize this condition with low cost precision is illustrated and results on Power Base(R) product design shown. Observations confirm the substantial SOA improvement using above design features on the same emitter geometry and chip size. Conventional hot spot was not noted.
Computer Model Calibration Using High-Dimensional Output

This work focuses on combining observations from field experiments with detailed computer simulations of a physical process to carry out statistical inference. Of particular interest here is determining uncertainty in resulting predictions. This typically involves calibration of parameters in the computer simulator as well as accounting for inadequate physics in the simulator. The problem is complicated by the fact that simulation code is sufficiently demanding that only a limited number of simulations can be carried out. We consider applications in characterizing material properties for which the field data and the simulator output are highly multivariate. For example, the experimental data and simulation output may be an image or may describe the shape of a physical object. We make use of the basic framework of Kennedy and O'Hagan. However, the size and multivariate nature of the data lead to computational challenges in implementing the framework. To overcome these challenges, we make use of basis repre...
Generation of low‐density high‐performance poly(arylene ether sulfone) foams using a benign processing technique

In this study, a benign process was used to successfully produce low density foam from poly(arylene ether sulfone) (PAES). Both carbon dioxide (CO2) and water as well as nitrogen and water were used as physical blowing agents in a one-step batch process. A large amount of blowing agents (up to 7.5%) was able to diffuse into the PAES resin in a 2-h saturation time. Utilizing water and CO2 as the blowing agents yielded foam with better properties than nitrogen and water because both the water and CO2 are plasticizers for the PAES resin. PAES foam produced from CO2 and water had a large reduction in foam density (∼80%) and a cell size of ∼50 μm, while maintaining a primarily closed cell structure. The small cell size and closed cell structure enhanced the mechanical properties of the foam when compared with the PAES foam produced from nitrogen and water. The tensile, compressive, and notched izod impact properties of the PAES foams were examined, and the compressive properties were compared to commercially available structural foams. With reduced compression strength of 39 MPa and reduced compression modulus of 913 MPa, the PAES foam is comparable to polyetherimide and poly(vinylchloride) structural foams. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2008 Society of Plastics Engineers
Isolation of Cholesterol from an Egg Yolk

A simple procedure for the isolation of the cholesterol, by hydrolysis and extraction followed by column chromatography, is described. The cholesterol can be further purified by complexation with oxalic acid. It can also be oxidized and conjugated to cholestenone. The source of the cholesterol is one egg yolk, which contains about 200 mg of lipid-bound cholesterol. This experiment is appropriate for an undergraduate organic chemistry laboratory and can be completed in 3 h.
A model of school problems, academic failure, alcohol initiation, and the relationship to adult heroin injection.

The current study uses structural equation modeling to investigate factors associated with alcohol initiation and injection heroin use. Baseline data from the NEURO-HIV Epidemiologic Study in Baltimore, Maryland, were used. Participants were 404 injection heroin users (Mage = 32.72) with a history of regular injection in their lifetime. Latent variables were created for self-reported school problems and academic failure. The final model indicated that greater school problems were associated with earlier alcohol initiation (s = −0.22, p < .001) and earlier alcohol initiation was associated with greater frequency of recent heroin use (s = −0.12, p < .05). Academic failure was directly related to greater frequency of recent heroin injection (s = 0.15, p < .01). The results expand research investigating the relationship between adolescent behavior and illicit drug use in adulthood.
Effect of Warfarin Anticoagulation on Below-Knee Polytetrafluoroethylene Graft Patency

When polytrafluoroethylene (PTFE) must be used for below-knee bypass to achieve limb salvage, effective anticoagulation with warfarin may improve graft survival. We analyzed our practice of routinely using oral anticoagulation to improve graft patency rates for PTFE grafts to below-knee popliteal and crural vessels in limb salvage procedures. We reviewed our established vascular database from February 1999 through April 2003 to identify those patients who required below-knee and tibial artery bypass with PTFE for critical limb ischemia. All patients were initiated on warfarin anticoagulation postoperatively, with an international normalized ratio (INR) of 2.0-3.0 considered therapeutic. All patients were discharged in the therapeutic range. Life-table analysis and Kaplan-Meier estimates were used to compare primary patency rates with regard to INR and position of distal anastomosis. Cox proportional hazards analysis was performed to compare the patency rates for grafts with therapeutic versus subtherapeutic anticoagulation while correcting for variability in distal runoff. Between February 1999 and April 2003, 74 patients (mean age, 69.2 years; 58% men) had 77 below-knee PTFE bypasses. Indications for operation included rest pain (43), ischemic ulcer (27), and gangrene (7). Patients presenting with occluded grafts more often had a subtherapeutic INR. Patients with a subtherapeutic INR (≤1.9) had a median primary graft patency of 6.8 months and those with a therapeutic INR (≥2.0) had a median primary graft patency of 29.9 months (p = 0.0007). Analysis by Cox proportional hazards model demonstrated a significantly better graft patency rate in patients with a therapeutic INR regardless of outflow vessel. The patency rates of PTFE grafts to infrageniculate vessels may be improved by effective anticoagulation with warfarin. This improved patency rate may also result in improved limb salvage and further support the use of PTFE grafts for critical limb ischemia when autogenous vein is not available. Predictably, the best results are seen with an INR therapeutic range of 2.0 to 3.0.
Retardation of fatigue crack growth in aircraft aluminium alloys via laser heating – Numerical prediction of fatigue crack growth

Abstract The presented study discusses a quantitative numerical approach for predicting the fatigue crack growth in AA2198-T8 C(T)100 specimens containing one line of laser heating. By heating with a defocused laser residual stresses are introduced and the fatigue crack growth is retarded. The developed methodology, which investigates coupling of the structural process simulation, the extraction of the total stress intensity Ktot and the prediction of the resulting fatigue crack growth rates by an empirical crack growth law is stepwise validated on the basis of experimental results. The prediction is found to be highly accurate. Special attention needs to be given to the quality of the process simulation results because the prediction of fatigue crack growth is highly sensitive to the results obtained in this simulation step.
Characterization of an Extremely Thermophilic Archaebacterium Isolated from a Black Smoker Polychaete (Paralvinella sp.) at the Juan de Fuca Ridge

Summary An extremely thermophilic anaerobic bacterium (strain ES1) was isolated from a polychaete worm (genus Paralvinella ) collected from a submarine hydrothermal vent environment on the Juan de Fuca Ridge. The optimal growth temperature is 82°C with a maximum of about 91 °C. ES1 appears to be an obligate heterotroph which is capable of reducing elemental sulfur to H 2 S. Sulfur reduction does not stimulate growth appreciably but results in dramatic morphological changes. Insensitivity to the antibiotics chloramphenicol, streptomycin, and vancomycin and the presence of di- and tetra-ether phytanyl lipids indicate that ES1 is a member of the archaebacteria. Its DNA base composition of 58.6 mol% G + C distinguishes ES1 from other phenotypically similar organisms.
Obstructive sleep apnea surgery: genioglossus advancement revisited.

Abstract Purpose: This study evaluated the accuracy of a genioglossus advancement (GA) technique (rectangular window) to incorporate the genial tubercle/genioglossus muscle complex (GGC) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Methods: This prospective study consisted of 38 consecutive patients who underwent GA. Preoperative localization of the GGC was based on the cephalometric and panoramic radiographs, as well as digital palpation in the floor of mouth. Immediately after completion of the osteotomy, the presence of the genial tubercles and the amount of the genioglossus muscle captured in the bone flap were examined directly. Results: All 38 pairs of genial tubercles were captured. Thirty-one patients had both bellies of the genioglossus muscle incorporated. Two patients had a complete belly and a partial (>50%) belly of the muscle captured. Five patients had only a portion (>50%) of both muscle bellies included. The incomplete incorporation of the muscles in the bone flap was caused by the limited lateral extension of the osteotomy beyond the genial tubercles. The causes of the limited lateral osteotomy extension included crowding of the lower incisors as well as the presence of elongated and/or medially angulated canine roots. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the rectangular osteotomy technique accurately captures the genial tubercles and enables an adequate amount of the genioglossus muscle to be incorporated and advanced. However, limited lateral extension of the osteotomy can result in a decreased incorporation of genioglossus muscle in some patients. © 2001 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Rolling your own mutable ADT—a connection between linear types and monads

A methodology is described whereby a linear ADT may be rigorously encapsulated within a state monad. A CPS-like translation from the original ADT axioms into monadic ones is also described and proven correct, so that reasoning can be accomplished at the monadic level without exposing the state. The ADT axioms are suitably constrained by a linear type system to make this translation possible. This constraint also allows the state to be "updated in place," a notion made precise via a graph-rewrite operational semantics.
Exponential stability in discrete-time filtering for non-ergodic signals

In this paper we prove exponential asymptotic stability for discrete-time filters for signals arising as solutions of d-dimensional stochastic difference equations. The observation process is the signal corrupted by an additive white noise of sufficiently small variance. The model for the signal admits non-ergodic processes. We show that almost surely, the total variation distance between the optimal filter and an incorrectly initialized filter converges to 0 exponentially fast as time approaches ∞.
STUDIES ON THE RELATIONSHIP OF SEX HORMONES TO INFECTION IV. A STUDY OF THE DISPERSION OR CONCENTRATION OF INDIA INK IN SKIN BY CERTAIN SEX HORMONES1,2

IN RECENT YEARS it has become increasingly evident that sex and certain endocrine states play an important role in the host's response to disease incitants. Schultz (i) in 1934 reported that factors associated with sexual maturity in females reduces their reactivity to serum. Recently von Hamm and Rosenfeld (2) have reported that theelin affects antibody formation in pneumococcus infections. In preceding papers we have shown that pregnancy (3) pseudopregnancy (4) and the estrogenic hormone (5) modify the rabbit's response to viral infection. It was also found that there is a close correlation between the spread of India ink in the skin and the rabbit's susceptibility to infection. This is in line with the findings of DuranReynals (6). In these papers we have extensively reviewed the literature and these references will not be repeated here. It was found early in the course of this work that extreme variations occurred in SO-Called normal
Evaluation of methods for celery (Apium Graveolens L.) transformation using Agrobacterium tumefaciens and the bar gene as selectable marker

Callus selection (CS) and the flamingo-bill explant (FB) methods were evaluated for efficacy in transformation for celery. Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains EHA105 and GV3101, each with the bar gene under the promoters NOS (pGPTV-BAR) or 35S (pDHB321.1), were used. Leaf explants were inoculated and co-cultivated for 2 d in the dark. Calluses emerged on the explants on callus medium (C), Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium + 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) (2.3 μM) + kinetin (2.8 μM) + timentin (300 mg·l �1 ). Calluses 4- to 6-wk-old were selected for glufosinate (GS) resistance by a two step method. First, calluses were transferred to C medium + GS 0.35, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, or 10 mg·l �1 ; calluses formed only with 0, 0.35 and 0.5 mg·l �1 GS. All growing calluses from 0 and 0.35 mg·l �1 and a few from 0.5 mg·l �1 , were divided and placed back on C + GS 0.35-0.5 mg·l �1 for another 5-6 wk. Second, tolerant clones were again divided and placed on C + GS 1- 50 mg·l �1 . When cultivar XP85 was inoculated with both strains, using pGPTVBAR, 19 glufosinate resistant (GR) callus clones were selected, but shoots regenerated only for strain EHA105 inoculations. When both of the strains (each with pDHB321.1) were inoculated on cv. XP166, 3 and 12 GR calluses occurred for EHA105 and GV3101, respec- tively. Using CS, a total of 34 GR callus clones were selected, and shoots were regenerated from over 50% of them on Gamborg B5 medium + 6-(+, +-dimethylallylamino) purine 2ip (4.9 μM) + naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA; 1.6 μ M) and rooted on MS in 5- 6m o total time. Conversely, using FB with inoculation by GV3101/ pDHB321.1 on cv. XP166 yielded putative transgenic celery plants confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in just 6 wk. Transformation of the bar gene into celery was confirmed by PCR for 5 and 6 CS and FB lines, respectively. Southern blot analyses indicated 1-2 copies in CS lines and 1 copy in FB lines. Herbicide assays on whole plants with 100 and 300 mg·l �1 glufosinate indicated a range of low to high tolerance for lines derived by both methods. The bar gene was found to be Mendelian inherited in one self-fertile CS derived line.
Lungs is just for breathin

Abstract [Cruzen ES. Lungs is just for breathin'. Ann Emerg Med . January 2002;39:89-90.]
Civil Asset Forfeiture: Where Does The Money Go?

In the past 25 years, the "war on drugs" has continued despite evidence that it has not been successful. One aspect of this war, civil asset forfeiture, has been used as a tool by federal, state, and local law enforcement to "take the profit out of the drug trade" and to increase the amount of revenues that law enforcement may use to carry out the "war on drugs." The purpose of this research note is to examine federal and state studies to ascertain how proceeds from for features are used by the respective governments. It was determined that a vast majority of states (88 percent) as well as the federal government explicitly allow law enforcement agencies to benefit from the "war on drugs" by keeping the proceeds from civil asset forfeitures. Likewise, only a small number of states (fewer than 20 percent) mention treatment or education as beneficiaries of proceeds, even though it has been argued that treatment and education may be more successful in reducing drug-related crime.
New Charged Particles from Higgs Couplings

The recently reported observation of a new particle with mass about 125 GeV and couplings generally resembling those of the Standard Model Higgs boson provides a potential probe of the physics of electroweak symmetry breaking. Although the current data only provides hints, we suggest a particular combination of Higgs couplings as an assay for new charged particles connected with electroweak symmetry breaking, and construct a simple model with charge 5=3 quarks as a demonstration of its use.
An Adjoint Examination of a Nudging Method for Data Assimilation

Abstract A regional adjoint modeling system is modified to determine the sensitivities of data assimilation and forecast results with respect to perturbations of the nudging fields and coefficients. A generalized linear system is used to explain the sensitivities both mathematically and physically. A linearized shallow-water model is utilized to show that the dynamics determining the sensitivities can be well described in terms of the dynamics of geostrophic adjustment, with the added effects of dissipation and nudging terms. The purpose of the study is to reveal the dynamics responsible for the sensitivities of assimilated fields and forecasts to a given observed variable, and thus to gain insight into what kinds of information are most (or least) effectively assimilated by the nudging method. The results of the adjoint study reveal that the nudging terms contribute significantly to the prognostic tendencies, even if the values of the nudging coefficient are smaller than those commonly used. When either ...
PREJUDICE & POLICY Racial Discrimination in the Union Army Disability Pension System, 1865-1906

The Union Army disability pension was an early experiment in colorblind social policy. However, it shortchanged Blacks in 2 ways. First, the law was unable to account for the challenges Blacks faced in proving their eligibility because of the legacy of slavery and discrimination against Black troops during the Civil War. Second, the increasing leniency accorded White soldiers by the Pension Bureau was not extended in the same measure to Blacks. Active discrimination against Blacks resulted in part from local discretion, evidenced by the significantly lower approval rates for both White and Black veterans in the South. Furthermore, when Whites and Blacks claimed disabilities that were easily verifiable, outcomes were similar, but when verification required a degree of trust, Blacks fared considerably worse than Whites.
Physiologically based pharmacokinetic model of midazolam disposition during pregnancy

Disposition of drugs in pregnant women is poorly understood in spite of widespread prescription of drugs to women during gestation. We have developed a whole body physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to explore the effects of pregnancy on pharmacokinetics. The model accounts for maternofetal changes over the course of gestation; physiological and drug-specific parameters are taken from literature. Here we preliminarily demonstrate the model's utility to predict midazolam pharmacokinetics following intravenous bolus dosing in women undergoing Caesarian section. Simulations of maternal venous plasma concentrations compare favorably with data extracted from historical studies.
Management of Neurotrophic Keratopathy

Neurotrophic keratopathy is an epithelial defect associated with fifth nerve damage, arising from numerous etiologies, which can be difficult to treat. Depending on the location of these defects, they can also prove to be sight threatening if treatment is unsuccessful. Several treatment options are available to assist in the resolution of these defects and, due to the serious potential consequences for sight if not well managed, all treatment options should be considered. This reporting of a patient that developed neurotrophic keratopathy after an intraocular surgical procedure includes details of the early, mid and late stages of the epithelial defect, the treatments that were instituted and the outcomes. The various treatments that are available for management of neurotrophic keratopathy and other persistent epithelial defects are discussed.
The Development and Application of Marine Radio Direction Finding Equipment by the United States Coast Guard

The various problems dealt with in the evolution, development, and practical application of radio direction finding equipment by the United States Coast Guard are discussed. The equipment in use at the present time is described. Difficulties encountered with marine equipment due to the electrophysical properties of vessels are explained. The methods employed in overcoming these difficulties are described. Some notes on deviation are presented along with curves and photographs showing the results obtained on various types of vessels. Deviation as a function of frequency is discussed in brief. The material presented is based on data obtained from more than one hundred direction finder installations on vessels of various types and sizes ranging from 75-foot motor boats to cutters of 3000 tons displacement. A brief description of aircraft equipment and an account of the results obtained therewith is included. The object of this paper is to present a resume of the results obtained with modern equipment under the actual conditions encountered in service use, accompanied by such notes and comments by the author as are deemed of interest to those concerned with the development, improvement, and application of marine and aircraft radio direction finders. The fundamental principles underlying the art of direction finding by means of radio are not recounted as it is realized the reader has available numerous current publications on the subject. This paper is published by permission of the Commandant, United States Coast Guard.
Comparative Study of the Hyoid and Tongue of some Typical Genera of Reptiles

Summary. 1The hyoid apparatus and tongues of fifteen reptiles are described and discussed. 2The patterns formed by the transverse muscles of the throat are classificatory importance, as are also the intrinsic muscles of the tongue. The study of these muscles throws new light on the position of the families Iguanidae and Chameleontidae. 3The hyoid apparatus and its muscles exhibit variations too numerous to provide data of taxonomic importance. The gular structures, as well as protrusible tongues, are aided by specially modified devices of the hyoid apparatus. 4The mechanism of the protrusible tongues of reptiles is described. 5The hyoid apparatus and the muscles of the tongue and throat co-operate in making the buccal cavity an active agent in the respiratory mechanism of most reptiles.
Non-driving intersegmental knee moments in cycling computed using a model that includes three-dimensional kinematics of the shank/foot and the effect of simplifying assumptions

Assessing the importance of non-driving intersegmental knee moments (i.e. varus/valgus and internal/external axial moments) on over-use knee injuries in cycling requires the use of a three-dimensional (3-D) model to compute these loads. The objectives of this study were: (1) to develop a complete, 3-D model of the lower limb to calculate the 3-D knee loads during pedaling for a sample of the competitive cycling population, and (2) to examine the effects of simplifying assumptions on the calculations of the non-driving knee moments. The non-driving knee moments were computed using a complete 3-D model that allowed three rotational degrees of freedom at the knee joint, included the 3-D inertial loads of the shank/foot, and computed knee loads in a shank-fixed coordinate system. All input data, which included the 3-D segment kinematics and the six pedal load components, were collected from the right limb of 15 competitive cyclists while pedaling at 225 W and 90 rpm. On average, the peak varus and internal axial moments of 7.8 and 1.5 N m respectively occurred during the power stroke whereas the peak valgus and external axial moments of 8.1 and 2.5 N m respectively occurred during the recovery stroke. However, the non-driving knee moments were highly variable between subjects; the coefficients of variability in the peak values ranged from 38.7% to 72.6%. When it was assumed that the inertial loads of the shank/foot for motion out of the sagittal plane were zero, the root-mean-squared difference (RMSD) in the non-driving knee moments relative to those for the complete model was 12% of the peak varus/valgus moment and 25% of the peak axial moment. When it was also assumed that the knee joint was revolute with the flexion/extension axis perpendicular to the sagittal plane, the RMSD increased to 24% of the peak varus/valgus moment and 204% of the peak axial moment. Thus, the 3-D orientation of the shank segment has a major affect on the computation of the non-driving knee moments, while the inertial contributions to these loads for motions out of the sagittal plane are less important.
Removal of low concentrations of acid gases: issues and solutions

Part per billion concentrations of acid gases such as SOx and NOx have been detected in both high purity gases and CDA lines. These contaminants can have deleterious effects on a number of high purity applications such as the optics found in lithography equipment steppers, scanners, and inspection tools. In addition, acidic gases have also been shown to reduce the life of masks and reticles, decrease fuel cell output due to catalyst poisoning, and cause hard disk drive crashes due to surface contamination and corrosion. Consequently, acid gas control in these applications has become a critical part of the required filtration system. SOx concentrations are typically used as the baseline for acid gas filter exposure guidelines and performance testing. However, this approach has been shown to provide poor filter life predictions, which has been attributed to the presence of other acidic and organic contaminants that compete with SOx for the available adsorption sites. Equally important, the type of sorbents and methods used to control acid gases can significantly affect the ability to remove SOx. In this work we will compare the performance of various sorbents, structures, and methods for the removal of SOx and NOx.
Serre's Conjecture for Imaginary Quadratic Fields

We study an analog over an imaginary quadratic field K of Serre's conjecture for modular forms. Given a continuous irreducible representation ρ:Gal(Q/K) →GL2(Fl) we ask if ρ is modular. We give three examples of representations ρ obtained by restriction of even representations of Gal(Q/Q). These representations appear to be modular when viewed as representations over K, as shown by the computer calculations described at the end of the paper.
Controls exerted by the Aib residue: Helix formation and helix reversal

The helix forming properties of the achiral α-amino isobutyric residue (Aib) have been demonstrated by numerous crystal structure analyses of designed and naturally occurring peptides containing one or more Aib residues in the sequence. Experimental and computational results concerning the type of helix obtained, whether the 310-helix with 4 1 type hydrogen bonds or the α-helix with 5 1 hydrogen bonds or mixtures of the two, have been published. This paper deals with residues that, if inserted into a sequence, could perturb the helix-forming propensity afforded by the presence of Aib residues. Examples of structures will be presented in which Pro, Hyp, Gly–Gly, d-Ala–Gly, and Lac have been centrally placed in the sequence. In addition to the formation of helices, detailed experimentally obtained conformation information is presented for the role of the Aib residue in reversing the sense of the helix (the Schellman motif) with the consequent formation of the 6 1 type hydrogen bond or a solvated 6 1 hydrogen bond. Data are presented for 13 molecules with helix reversals at the C-terminus or near the center of the sequence. Published 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 60: 351–365, 2001
Suppression of double Rayleigh scattering-induced excess noise in remotely interrogated fiber-optic interferometric sensors

This letter describes experimental observations of excess noise due to coherent double Rayleigh scattering in the input fiber of a remotely interrogated fiber-optic interferometric sensor. This noise source is generally only observable when a high coherence length laser is used to interrogate the sensor and the fiber length connecting the sensor is in excess of /spl sim/10 km. We present a simplified model to explain how this noise source affects the sensor resolution and demonstrate a method based on laser source modulation to reduce this noise by /spl sim/20 dB in a fiber-optic Michelson interferometric sensor with a 25-km input fiber, at frequencies less than 10 kHz.
Failure to fix nitrogen by non-reproductive symbiotic rhizobia triggers host sanctions that reduce fitness of their reproductive clonemates.

The legume–rhizobia symbiosis is a classical mutualism where fixed carbon and nitrogen are exchanged between the species. Nonetheless, the plant carbon that fuels nitrogen (N2) fixation could be diverted to rhizobial reproduction by ‘cheaters’—rhizobial strains that fix less N2 but potentially gain the benefit of fixation by other rhizobia. Host sanctions can decrease the relative fitness of less-beneficial reproductive bacteroids and prevent cheaters from breaking down the mutualism. However, in certain legume species, only undifferentiated rhizobia reproduce, while only terminally differentiated rhizobial bacteroids fix nitrogen. Sanctions were, therefore, tested in two legume species that host non-reproductive bacteroids. We demonstrate that even legume species that host non-reproductive bacteroids, specifically pea and alfalfa, can severely sanction undifferentiated rhizobia when bacteroids within the same nodule fail to fix N2. Hence, host sanctions by a diverse set of legumes play a role in maintaining N2 fixation.
An Efficient HPC Framework for Parallel Long-Time and Large-Scale Simulation of a Class of Anomalous Single-Phase Models

Anomalous sub-diffusion models are currently considered to be efficient for characterization of complex single -- (and hence multi -- ) phase fluid flow in reservoir simulations. For simulation of such models in three space dimensions, typically, millions of degree of freedoms (DoF) are required to resolve multiscale features in reservoirs. Further, the key quantity of interest is on long-time behavior of reservoirs. Consequently, standard time-stepping serial algorithms are not practical. In this article, we develop a high performance computing (HPC) framework to efficiently simulate a class of anomalous sub-diffusion models. The framework is based on hybrid parallel-in-time and parallel-in-space multiple message passing interface (MPI) communicators and efficient load balancing techniques, in conjunction with efficient discretization of the continuous local and non-local operators in the sub-diffusion models.
Micropolitics in Rural Africa

This essay examines a recently opened field of inquiry that is particularly fruitful with regard to the study of political change in rural Africa. This focus of speculation and research is termed micropolitics, and may be conveniently defined as the interpersonal associations of participants in the acquisition and exercise of power. Following a brief elaboration of the micropolitical concept, some of its present applications to the study of grass-roots Africa are suggested. Men have always lived within political communities. For well over two thousand years in our own intellectual tradition alone, men have also asked how and why such communities appear and survive, or perish. But people possess the disturbing habit of organizing their public concerns slowly, intricately, and without informing investigators of the reasons for their behavior, and for arranging and changing this behavior in one manner instead of another. Causal principles which interpret political consistencies and inconsistencies have been notoriously difficult over the ages to establish convincingly. Part of the trouble lies in the fact that political systems comprise enormous numbers of constantly changing types of action, making any total explanation of systemic operations and structures a very risky venture indeed. The time factor poses another quandary. A political system can be discussed through an historical interlude selected from a longer period; or a chronologically unspecified 'present' may be analyzed. Either way, one has little assurance that his view encompasses all, or even the most pertinent, factors surrounding the case in hand. In rural Africa as elsewhere, these ostensibly insurmountable barriers to meaningful research can be significantly reduced, if not entirely eliminated, by choosing as a primary focus face-to-face interactions within small settings. This is the essence of the micropolitical approach. Politics is an analytical aspect of concrete social intercourse. Political is distinguished from social interaction by attributes which " . . . are not even
Synonyms, New Combinations, and New Species in Volvariella (Agaricales)

(1962). Synonyms, New Combinations, and New Species in Volvariella (Agaricales) Mycologia: Vol. 54, No. 5, pp. 563-572.
Endoscopic endonasal transclival approaches: case series and outcomes for different clival regions.

Objective Transclival e ndoscopic endonasal approaches to the skull base are novel with few published cases. We report our institution's experience with this technique and discuss outcomes according to the clival region involved. Design Retrospective case series. Setting Tertiary care academic medical center Participants All patients who underwent endoscopic endonasal transclival approaches for skull base lesions from 2008 to 2012. Main Outcome Measures Pathologies encountered, mean intraoperative time, intraoperative complications, gross total resection, intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, postoperative CSF leak, postoperative complications, and postoperative clinical course. Results A total of 49 patients underwent 55 endoscopic endonasal transclival approaches. Pathology included 43 benign and 12 malignant lesions. Mean follow-up was 15.4 months. Mean operative time was 167.9 minutes, with one patient experiencing an intraoperative internal carotid artery injury. Of the 15 cases with intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks, 1 developed postoperative CSF leak (6.7%). There were six other postoperative complications: four systemic complications, one case of meningitis, and one retropharyngeal abscess. Gross total resection was achieved for all malignancies approached with curative intent. Conclusions This study provides evidence that endoscopic endonasal transclival approaches are a safe and effective strategy for the surgical management of a variety of benign and malignant lesions. Level of Evidence 4.
Citizenship education for proactive democratic life in rural communities

To assist rural teachers in fostering students’ democratic skills and dispositions, this article examines the convergence of literature on citizenship education, rural communities, and rural educat...
Manipulating Motivating Operations to Facilitate the Emergence of Mands for a Child With Autism

Research on the functional independence of verbal operants (Skinner, 1957) has demonstrated inconsistent findings. One explanation may be that these studies have not manipulated the motivating operation (MO) to facilitate the emergence of mands (Hall & Sundberg, 1987; Lamarre & Holland, 1985). In the current study, 1 participant, diagnosed with autism, was taught to tact high-preference and low-preference leisure items, and emergence of mands was tested under varying MO conditions. Results showed the emergence of mands following periods of arranged deprivation, and greater maintenance for a highly preferred relative to a less preferred stimulus. However, mands only emerged when presession tact trials were conducted. These results suggest that in a state of deprivation, transfer of stimulus control from discriminative to motivational conditions may occur without direct training.
Technetium-99m tetrofosmin: a new myocardial perfusion agent

This is the fifth article in a series of five on new radiopharmaceuticals. Upon completion, the technologist will be able to (1) list the characteristics of tetrofosmin, (2) describe the clinical images, and (3) compare tetrofosmin to other myocardial perfusion agents.
AIS President's Report: 2001-2002

Three years ago, my most recent predecessor as the President from Region One, Gordon Davis, published the first of these President’s reports in Communications of the AIS. Two years later, Michael Vitale, the most recent AIS President from Region Three, provided another. Gordon and Mike set a difficult precedent, not only by the quality of their report but, more importantly, by the many accomplishments of AIS during their terms in office. The following presents my view of most of the significant work of AIS from May 1, 2001 to April 30, 2002.
Abstract P251: Cardiovascular Risk Perception in African Americans

Substantial racial disparities exist in heart disease. African Americans have the highest rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors is greatest among racial minorities. African Americans are more likely to be diabetic, physically inactive, and overweight compared to whites. Additionally, African Americans participate in cardiovascular risk reduction behaviors such as diet control, exercise, and weight management at lower rates compared to individuals from other racial groups. Primary prevention of CVD through the adoption of healthy diet and physical activity behaviors is recommended to reduce the risk of developing CVD. According to health behavior theories, people must perceive themselves as susceptible to disease to adopt a preventive behavior. Few studies have examined psychological and sociocultural factors that influence cardiovascular risk perception in African Americans. As part of a randomized trial comparing the effects of integrated versus disease specific risk education in a community-based sample of African Americans, we (1) evaluated perceived risk of developing CVD and (2) identified factors having significant independent association with risk perception. The sample consisted of 199 African American adults who were on average 45.0 years (± 9.9) old. The participants were 53% male and 47% female. Approximately 23% of the participants were at intermediate or high risk for CVD. Most (83%) participants received medical care in a doctor’s office, clinic, or community health center and had a recent visit (≤ 1 year) to a doctor (84%). More than half (62%) of participants did not perceive themselves to be at increased CVD risk. In the multivariate model that controlled for age, objective risk (β=1.85, p=0.03), a family history of CVD (β=0.47, p=0.006), a recent doctor visit (β=1.90, p=0.03), and usual source of health care (β=-2.24, p=0.008) had a significant association with risk perception. Our results suggest that usual source of health care is important to perceived risk of developing CVD. This could be because provider interaction is important in appropriate CVD risk perception. Future research is needed to evaluate the content of patient-provider discussions about CVD in different settings.
Anterior Component Separation Techniques

Complex abdominal wall reconstruction may be accomplished utilizing anterior component separation techniques. These techniques involve both division of the posterior rectus sheath and the external oblique aponeurosis to facilitate advancement of the rectus abdominis muscle along with the internal oblique and transversus abdominis muscle. Significant advancement of the abdominal wall may be obtained resulting in closure of defects spanning nearly 20 cm in width. While traditional techniques involved the creation of undermining skin flaps with resultant wound morbidity, evolutionary techniques including the perforator preserving technique and endoscopic component separation technique allow for similar abdominal advancement while minimizing wound complications.
Evaluating the Relationship between Productivity and Quality in Emergency Departments.

Background. In the United States, emergency departments (EDs) are constantly pressured to improve operational efficiency and quality in order to gain financial benefits and maintain a positive reputation. Objectives. The first objective is to evaluate how efficiently EDs transform their input resources into quality outputs. The second objective is to investigate the relationship between the efficiency and quality performance of EDs and the factors affecting this relationship. Methods. Using two data sources, we develop a data envelopment analysis (DEA) model to evaluate the relative efficiency of EDs. Based on the DEA result, we performed multinomial logistic regression to investigate the relationship between ED efficiency and quality performance. Results. The DEA results indicated that the main source of inefficiencies was working hours of technicians. The multinomial logistic regression result indicated that the number of electrocardiograms and X-ray procedures conducted in the ED and the length of stay were significantly associated with the trade-offs between relative efficiency and quality. Structural ED characteristics did not influence the relationship between efficiency and quality. Conclusions. Depending on the structural and operational characteristics of EDs, different factors can affect the relationship between efficiency and quality.
Refractive index liquid sensing based on bound states in photonic crystal slabs

We theoretically investigate the bound states in free-space coupled defect-free photonic crystal slabs at discrete vector k points for refractive index sensing to achieve low detection limit.