cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hanging protocol optimization of lumbar spine radiographs with machine learning.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether machine learning algorithms can be utilized to optimize the hanging protocol of lumbar spine radiographs. Specifically, we explored whether machine learning models can accurately label lumbar spine views/positions, detect hardware, and rotate the lateral views to straighten the image. We identified 1727 patients with 6988 lumbar spine radiographs. The view (anterior-posterior, right oblique, left oblique, left lateral, right lateral, left lumbosacral or right lumbosacral), hardware (present or not present), dynamic position (neutral, flexion, or extension), and correctional rotation of each radiograph were manually documented by a board-certified radiologist. Various output metrics were calculated, including area under the curve (AUC) for the categorical output models (view, hardware, and dynamic position). For non-binary categories, an all-versus-other technique was utilized designating one category as true and all others as false, allowing for a binary evaluation (e.g., AP vs. non-AP or extension vs. non-extension). For correctional rotation, the degree of rotation required to straighten the lateral spine radiograph was documented. The mean absolute difference was calculated between the ground truth and model-predicted value reported in degrees of rotation. Ensembles of the rotation models were created. We evaluated the rotation models on 3 test dataset splits: only 0 rotation, only non-0 rotation, and all cases. The AUC values for the categorical models ranged from 0.985 to 1.000. For the only 0 rotation data, the ensemble combining the absolute minimum value between the 20- and 60-degree models performed best (mean absolute difference of 0.610). For the non-0 rotation data, the ensemble merging the absolute maximum value between the 40- and 160-degree models performed best (mean absolute difference of 4.801). For the all cases split, the ensemble combining the minimum value of the 20- and 40-degree models performed best (mean absolute difference of 3.083). Machine learning techniques can be successfully implemented to optimize lumbar spine x-ray hanging protocols by accounting for views, hardware, dynamic position, and rotation correction.
Shale lithofacies controls on porosity and pore structure: An example from Ordovician Goldwyer Formation, Canning Basin, Western Australia

Abstract The hydrocarbon storage and transport capacity of shale reservoirs are dependent on its complex pore systems. This study focuses on Ordovician Goldwyer Formation (Goldwyer shale) from Canning Basin, Western Australia. Multi-scale qualitative (X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, TESCAN integrated mineral analyser (TIMA) and thin-section analysis) and quantitative (Rock-Eval® pyrolysis, helium porosity on crushed samples, low-pressure gas adsorptions (N2 and CO2) and mercury injection capillary pressure (MICP)) approaches were applied on shale samples. The results indicate that the Goldwyer shale comprises five main lithofacies (namely organic-rich shale, argillaceous shale, siliceous shale, calcareous shale, and mixed shale) based on mineral composition and total organic carbon (TOC) content. The organic-rich and siliceous shales have highest porosity (>10%) followed by mixed shale and other lithofacies. Three types of pores, namely organic pores, interparticle, and intraparticle pores, are identified in Goldwyer shale. Most of the pores are narrow slit-like or bottle-necked shaped pores. The micropore and mesopore volumes and specific surface area (SSA) of all lithofacies are positively related to TOC except for the argillaceous shale. Conversely, the micro and mesopore parameters (SSA and pore volumes) exhibited inverse relations with total clay content for all lithofacies except argillaceous shale. This indicates that the total clay and TOC content is the main controlling factors for pore structure of Goldwyer shale. The whole pore aperture exposed that mesopores are more abundant in Goldwyer shale; however, few micro and macropores are also found in different lithofacies. The organic-rich, siliceous and mixed shales could be deemed as the most essential lithofacies types for fluid flow via pore systems due to high porosity and feasible pore structures.
Accurate point-of-care serology tests for COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: As COVID-19 vaccines become available, screening individuals for prior COVID-19 infection and vaccine response in point-of-care (POC) settings has renewed interest. We prospectively screened at-risk individuals for SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid protein antibodies in a POC setting to determine if it was a feasible method to identify antibody from prior infection. METHODS: Three EUA-approved lateral flow antibody assays were performed on POC finger-stick blood and compared with serum and a CLIA nucleocapsid antibody immunoassay. Variables including antibody class, time since PCR, and the assay antigen used were evaluated. RESULTS: 512 subjects enrolled, of which 104 had a COVID-19 history and positive PCR. Only three PCR-positive subjects required hospitalization, with one requiring mechanical ventilation. The POC results correlated well with the immunoassay (93-97% sensitivity) and using serum did not improve the sensitivity or specificity. CONCLUSIONS: Finger-stick, POC COVID-19 antibody testing was highly effective in identifying antibody resulting from prior infections in mildly symptomatic subjects. Using high-complexity serum immunoassays did not improve the screening outcome. Almost all individuals with COVID-19 infection produced detectable antibodies to the virus. POC antibody testing is useful as a screen for prior COVID-19 infection, and should be useful in assessing vaccine response.
The effects of board expertise-risk misalignment and subsequent strategic board reconfiguration on firm performance

Research Summary Boards are unlikely to be effective if they do not have sufficient collective expertise to understand, monitor, and address future risks. This begs the question, does the board, in fact, have this expertise? If not, can they reconfigure their expertise to address those risks? Building on agency theory, we analyze the alignment between the board's expertise and the firm's future risks, with the expectation that board composition will change over time to reflect the firm's future risks—strategic reconfiguration. Our results show that misalignment has negative implications for firm performance, misalignment also motivates appropriate board reconfiguration, and that this reconfiguration positively effects firm performance. Managerial Summary Our study illustrates the need for board expertise to be aligned with firm risks. While there has been increasing pressure for firms to assess their directors' expertise (i.e., skill matrices), simply identifying expertise which is present or absent does not speak to whether that expertise is actually needed (or not) by the firm given the risks faced. We analyze boards' collective expertise, compare that with the risks that firms are facing, and identify the gaps which may detrimentally impact the monitoring ability of the board and cause firm performance to suffer. Consequently, understanding the degree of (mis)alignment is of paramount importance for boards to be effective monitors and positively influence firm performance.
Underlying Mechanisms of Hot Carrier-Driven Reactivity on Bimetallic Nanostructures

Bimetallic nanostructures exhibit unique catalytic activity and selectivity that are not evident for their monometallic analogues. Such nanostructures contain plasmonic metals, such as gold or silv...
Systematics of Amomyrtus (Burret) D. Legrand & Kausel (Myrtaceae)

The systematics of Amomyrtus, an endemic genus of southwestern temperate South America, is reviewed. In molecular phylogenetic studies the genus is supported as monophyletic, with its closest relatives being other American genera such as Legrandia and Pimenta. A lectotype for Myrcia lechleriana Miquel is chosen
Thyroxine-protein interactions. VI. Structural requirements for binding of benzene derivatives to thyroxine-binding sites on human serum albumin.

Structural requirements for binding to thyroxine-binding sites on human serum albumin were studied by measuring the relative abilities of various substituted benzene derivatives, such as phenols and benzoates, to displace thyroxine from albumin in equilibrium dialysis experiments performed at pH 7.4 and 30 °. Relatively strong binding of benzene derivatives to thyroxine-binding sites on albumin depended upon two structural requirements. These were (1) a requirement for an anionic group, and (2) the presence on the phenyl ring of at least one highly polarizable substituent such as an iodine atom in the case of benzoates, or the presence of two highly polarizable substituents in the case of phenols. The effect of different substituents on the binding of phenols was in the order: alkyl group (CH3-, or (CH3)2C-) < NO2, Cl < Br, I. The diphenyl ether structure of thyroxine was not an obligatory requirement for strong binding since compounds with a single benzene ring were bound as tightly as thyroxine as shown by the competition experiments and confirmed by fluorescence quenching. Bulky halogen atoms ortho to the carboxylate group caused large reductions in relative binding affinities of benzoates. This ortho effect indicated that coplanarity of the carboxylate anion with the phenyl ring was required for optimal binding. Based on the steric requirement for coplanarity, a model for binding to the primary thyroxine-binding site was suggested which visualized the outer diiodophenolate portion of thyroxine as fitting into a cleft in a predominantly hydrophobic region of albumin.
Clostridial toxins active locally in the gastrointestinal tract

Clostridium difficile and Clostridium spiroforme have only in recent years been recognized as intestinal pathogens. They both produce toxins that are also produced by other clostridia. C. difficile toxins A and B are produced by C. sordellii and a few strains of C. perfringens whereas C. spiroforme produces the same toxins as C. perfringens Type E (iota toxin). Iota toxin activity may be the product of two proteins. Toxigenic strains of C. spiroforme and Type E produce two antigens which possess much more biological activity when administered together than when given alone. C. difficile was thought for some time to produce only a single toxin, but then the enterotoxic activity was shown to be due to a separate toxin (toxin A). This toxin increases the oral toxicity of toxin B (the main cytotoxin) and may increase the permeability of the colon. Toxin A binds to a specific receptor in hamster brush border membranes and in the membranes of rabbit erythrocytes. This receptor appears to be a glycoprotein. The receptor can be extracted from the membrane with Triton and binds to immobilized toxin A. The receptor can be extracted and used to coat plastic plates as a first phase in an ELISA assay. Another assay has been developed in which the toxin A binds to the red cells and then the erythrocytes are agglutinated with antitoxin. An even more sensitive assay consists of using rabbit erythrocyte ghosts to bind the toxin and then precipitating the ghosts with antibody to toxin A attached to latex beads. Monoclonal antibodies to toxin A also have been developed and are used in these and other assays.
Gene expression profiling for cardiac rejection surveillance is not predictive of post-transplantation skin cancer

Background The risk of skin cancer in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) is 50 to 100 times as great as in those without a transplant. Multiple factors, including immunosuppression, influence the development of post-transplantation skin cancer. Individuals with cardiac transplant are serially screened for organ rejection and immunosuppressive regimen effectiveness. Gene expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells has been established as a noninvasive test for monitoring cardiac rejection. Objective We examined individuals with cardiac transplant monitored using peripheral gene expression profiling to determine whether the profile of peripheral blood mononuclear cell activity could correlate with the development of post-transplantation skin cancer. Methods and Materials Sixty-one patient records were examined for initial endomyocardial biopsy results, gene expression profiling data, immunosuppressive regimens, and post-transplantation skin cancer. Results There was no relationship between acute rejection and the development of skin cancer. No relationship between peripheral gene expression profiling and the development of post-transplantation skin cancer was observed. The most common skin cancer in the population was squamous cell carcinoma. SOTR suppressed with azathioprine had a significantly higher incidence of squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusion Although gene expression tests have advanced transplant surveillance, they were not associated with post-transplantation skin cancer.
Sensitivity Of Ignitrons To Stray Capacitance

Abstract : The surprising sensitivity of ignitors was encountered on RACE, a compact torus device. Its capacitor bank has both the common reverse-crowbar circuit and an unusual forward-crowbar circuit that made this investigation necessary. The ignitors were fired with high-capacitance coaxial-cable pulse transformers. When the bank fired, because of negative bank charge, forward-crowbar ignitrons saw both positive anode voltage and a positive pulse to their ignitors coupled through pulse transformer capacitance. One tube prefired as low as 3 kV. Prefires ceased when coaxial transformers were replaced with double-shielded transformers. Pulse duration and energy were much less than expected. The computed ignitor pulse RC time was only 5.6 ns, far less than a typical 250-ns anode firing delay. The positive capacitive energy input to the ignitor was 0.14 mJ, more than 3 orders of magnitude less than the ignitron firing chassis.
Factors That Influence Microbial Contamination of Fluids Associated with Hemodialysis Machines

Studies were conducted on the microbiological quality of fluids associated with different types of dialysis systems located in six dialysis centers and 14 homes. Included were (i) single-pass systems employing either parallel flow (Kiil or Gambro) or capillary cartridge dialyzers and (ii) recirculating single-pass and batch recirculating systems using coil dialyzers. Microbiological assays were performed on the water used to prepare dialysis fluid, the concentrated dialysate, and either pre- and postdialyzer dialysate (single-pass systems) or the dialysate contained in storage reservoirs and recirculating cannisters (recirculating systems). The levels of microbial contamination consisting of gram-negative bacteria were directly related to the type of dialysis system, method of water treatment, distribution system, and in some instances, the type of dialyzer. Recirculating single-pass and batch recirculating systems consistently contained significantly higher levels of contamination than single-pass systems. These results were directly related to the design of recirculating systems which permits carbon- and nitrogen-containing waste products dialyzed from the patient to accumulate, be used as nutrients by microorganisms, and subsequently allow for 2- to 4-log increases in contamination levels during a dialysis treatment. In contrast, levels of contamination in single-pass machines were related more to the quality of the water used to prepare dialysis fluid and the adequacy of cleaning and disinfection procedures than to the design of the system.
Mechanism for modulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors that can influence synaptic transmission

Only recently has it been appreciated that neuronal nicotinic ACh receptors (NnAChRs) are highly permeable to Ca2+ and are modulated by Ca2+ in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that Ca2+ could have roles in cholinergic synaptic plasticity. We report a possible mechanism for Ca(2+)-initiated synaptic plasticity that differs from the intracellular Ca2+ cascade associated with plasticity of glutamatergic synapses. Rapid changes in external Ca2+ modulate cholinergic spontaneous synaptic currents in superior cervical ganglionic sympathetic neurons. Inhibition of cholinergic currents by chlorisondamine, which blocks only open channels and becomes trapped in the pore, showed that the modulation is not by a mechanism that activates a previously unresponsive population of NnAChRs. Rather, single-channel recordings with ganglionic NnAChRs from chromaffin cells indicated that Ca2+ directly alters the probability of the channels being open. We hypothesize from the results that activity-dependent decreases in external Ca2+, which occur throughout the nervous system, could directly underlie a rapid negative-feedback mechanism that decreases the responsiveness of NnAChRs at synapses. When external Ca2+ is decreased, presynaptic Ca2+ currents and transmitter release also are diminished. Thus, several mechanisms could combine to potently and rapidly depress synaptic nicotinic receptors until the external Ca2+ concentration recovers.
Determination of vitamins D2 and D3 in feedingstuffs by high performance liquid chromatography

Abstract A sensitive and reliable HPLC method for complete separation and quantitation of vitamins D2 and D3 in complicated biological mixtures such as feedingstuffs has been developed and described. The method has been applied to the quantitative determination of D2 and D3 in feedingstuffs and related matrices at both high premix levels and low feed levels ranging down to a detection limit near 100 IU/1b or 0.22 IU/g sample. The procedures consist of the initial step of sample preparation by extraction; four sample cleanup stages: Sep/Pak/Silica Cartridge Cleanup, Millipore-Teflon Cleanup, Gel Permeation/Sephadex LH-20 Column Cleanup, and HPLC/Partisil-PAC Column Cleanup; and the final step of Reverse-Phase HPLC Separation, Identification, and Quantitation. The analytical Column used was Rainin Accupak 20 cm-3 um C-18 & Guard Columns. The Waters Associates Model 440 Fixed Wavelength UV Detector at 254 nm was used for all measurements. All separations and quantitations were carried out isocratically at ro...
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Trazodone for Treatment of Depression, Psychosis, and Behavioral Symptoms in Patients With Dementia

Depression, psychosis, agitation, and aggression are fundamental clinical aspects of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other dementia syndromes. Although behavioral, environmental, and pharmacologic interventions often help ameliorate these symptoms, the efficacy of specific interventions is uncertain, and adverse effects of medications are common.
Preliminary Study of Geosynchronous Orbit Transfers from LEO using Invariant Manifolds

The invariant manifolds of libration point orbits (LPOs) in the Sun-Earth/Moon system are used to construct low-energy transfers from Low Earth Orbits (LEOs) to geosynchronous orbits. A maneuver is performed in LEO to insert onto a stable manifold trajectory of an LPO. The spacecraft travels to the host LPO and then follows an unstable manifold trajectory back to a geosynchronous orbit, where an orbit insertion maneuver is performed. The gravitational effects of the Sun-Earth/Moon three-body system act in such a way that large plane changes between the initial and final orbits at Earth may be realized without the execution of any plane change maneuvers. The maneuver costs of the transfers that employ invariant manifolds are compared to those using traditional techniques. The transfers that employ manifold trajectories can lower the cost of traditional Hohmann transfers by up to 3.15 km/s for transfers involving large differences in initial and final inclinations. The decrease in fuel expenditure is accompanied by an increase in time of flight; transfer durations are slightly over one year.
Using Field-Based Species Sensitivity Distributions to Infer Multiple Causes

ABSTRACT We describe a new way to develop evidence of causes of biological effects using field-based species sensitivity distributions (SSDs) and show how evidence can be compared when genera or effect endpoints are different among potentially causal agents. To evaluate if a cause is sufficient to elicit an effect, we developed a general SSD. A cause was judged sufficient if the intensity of the stressor at the site predicted the observed proportion of extirpation. To evaluate if an effect is specific to a cause, we developed site-specific SSDs using field-based effect levels of genera occurring in the locality of the study. An effect was judged specific to a cause if susceptible genera were absent and tolerant genera were present. Field-based SSDs were used to assess nutrients and conductivity. Other associations were used to assess metals, sediment, dissolved oxygen, and temperature. A case study at Pigeon Roost Creek, Tennessee, USA, illustrates how the SSDs are used to infer multiple causes. A weight-...
Hadron Production in Relativistic Heavy Ion Interactions and the Search for the Quark—Gluon Plasma

High energy collisions of nuclei provide the means of creating nuclear matter in conditions of extreme temperature and density. At large energy density, or baryon density, a phase transition is expected from a state of nucleons containing confined quarks and gluons to a state of “deconfined” (from their individual nucleons) quarks and gluons covering the entire volume of nuclear matter, or a volume that is many units of the characteristic length scale. This state is expected to be in thermal and chemical equilibrium.
The American Frontier and the Contemporary Real Estate Advertising Magazine

Les magazines de petites annonces immobilieres sont omnipresents aux Etats-Unis. Ce sont des signes particuliers du style de vie americain, et plus precisement d'une societe desireuse de demenagements et du mythique Ailleurs. Etudier ces magazines de biens immobiliers, c'est voir quelle est, aujourd'hui, la nouvelle Frontiere, car ces magazines sont de precieux documents pour connaitre les Etats-Unis actuels. Ils permettent d'en definir la geographie et de mieux cerner la geographie dite de perception qui en decoule ; celle qui decrit la facon dont les humains construisent l'espace a partir d'informations tres reduites
Quasiprimitive Linear Groups with Quadratic Elements

Abstract A semisimple complex linear transformation with exactly two distinct eigenvalues is called a quadratic element. In this paper the finite irreducible linear groups generated by quadratic elements of order 3 for which the multiplicities of the eigenvalues are distinct are determined. This is used to obtain bounds on the degree of an irreducible primitive linear group containing such elements. There are no irreducible primitive linear groups containing quadratic elements of order 4 with eigenvalues {1, i } with distinct multiplicities where i is a primitive fourth root of 1.
Diet After Diagnosis and the Risk of Prostate Cancer Progression, Recurrence, and Death (United States)

Objectives We examined post-diagnostic diet and risk of cancer progression in a cohort of men with prostate cancer from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Methods We observed 392 progression outcomes among 1,202 men diagnosed with incident localized/regional prostate cancer between 1986 and 1996. Men completed prospective dietary surveys before and after diagnosis and were followed through 2000. We examined post-diagnostic consumption of red meat, grains, vegetables, fruits, milk, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and fish as predictors of progression using Cox proportional hazard regression models adjusted for total energy, age, clinical factors, and pre-diagnostic diet. Results Men in the highest versus lowest quartile of post-diagnostic fish consumption had a multivariate hazard ratio (HR) of progression of 0.73 (95% CI 0.52–1.02); the comparable HR for tomato sauce was 0.56 (95% CI 0.38–0.82). We observed inverse linear relationships for fish and tomato sauce and risk of progression (HR = 0.83, p-value = 0.006 and HR = 0.80, p-value = 0.04 for a two serving/week increase of fish and tomato sauce, respectively). Milk and fresh tomato consumption were associated with small elevations in risk. Conclusions These data suggest that diet after diagnosis may influence the clinical course of prostate cancer, and fish and tomato sauce may offer some protection against disease progression.
GUIDED-WAVE PHASE-MATCHING OF ULTRASHORT-PULSE LIGHT

We review the use of hollow waveguides for frequency conversion of ultrafast laser pulses the ultraviolet and extreme ultraviolet. Phase-matching of these processes is reached through a balance of gas and waveguide dispersion. By mixing 400 nm with 800 nm light, ultrashort (8 fs) pulses are generated near 270 nm with high efficiency > 20%. Tuning of the longer-wavelength component in the mixing process allows tuning of the output from 215–308 nm. In the XUV, this guided-wave phase-matching has allowed an increase of conversion efficiency of high-order harmonic generation of 100–1000x over that obtained with a gas jet, in an experimentally-convenient geometry.
Exploring the level sets of quantum control landscapes

A quantum control landscape is defined by the value of a physical observable as a functional of the time-dependent control field $E(t)$ for a given quantum-mechanical system. Level sets through this landscape are prescribed by a particular value of the target observable at the final dynamical time $T$, regardless of the intervening dynamics. We present a technique for exploring a landscape level set, where a scalar variable $s$ is introduced to characterize trajectories along these level sets. The control fields $E(s,t)$ accomplishing this exploration (i.e., that produce the same value of the target observable for a given system) are determined by solving a differential equation over $s$ in conjunction with the time-dependent Schr\"odinger equation. There is full freedom to traverse a level set, and a particular trajectory is realized by making an a priori choice for a continuous function $f(s,t)$ that appears in the differential equation for the control field. The continuous function $f(s,t)$ can assume an arbitrary form, and thus a level set generally contains a family of controls, where each control takes the quantum system to the same final target value, but produces a distinct control mechanism. In addition, although the observable value remains invariant over the level set, other dynamical properties (e.g., the degree of robustness to control noise) are not specifically preserved and can vary greatly. Examples are presented to illustrate the continuous nature of level-set controls and their associated induced dynamical features, including continuously morphing mechanisms for population control in model quantum systems.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Poly(styrene-block-methylacrylate-random-octadecylacrylate-block-styrene) Shape Memory ABA Triblock Copolymer

A new shape memory polymer (SMP) was prepared from an ABA triblock copolymer with polystyrene (PS) end blocks and a random copolymer midblock of poly(methylacrylate-random-octadecylacrylate) (PMA-r...
Protein profiling of the dimorphic, pathogenic fungus, Penicillium marneffei

Penicillium marneffei is a pathogenic fungus that afflicts immunocompromised individuals having lived or traveled in Southeast Asia. This species is unique in that it is the only dimorphic member of the genus. Dimorphism results from a process, termed phase transition, which is regulated by temperature of incubation. At room temperature, the fungus grows filamentously (mould phase), but at body temperature (37°C), a uninucleate yeast form develops that reproduces by fission. Formation of the yeast phase appears to be a requisite for pathogenicity. To date, no genes have been identified in P. marneffei that strictly induce mould-to-yeast phase conversion. In an effort to help identify potential gene products associated with morphogenesis, protein profiles were generated from the yeast and mould phases of P. marneffei. Whole cell proteins from the early stages of mould and yeast development in P. marneffei were resolved by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Selected proteins were recovered and sequenced by capillary-liquid chromatography-nanospray tandem mass spectrometry. Putative identifications were derived by searching available databases for homologous fungal sequences. Proteins found common to both mould and yeast phases included the signal transduction proteins cyclophilin and a RACK1-like ortholog, as well as those related to general metabolism, energy production, and protection from oxygen radicals. Many of the mould-specific proteins identified possessed similar functions. By comparison, proteins exhibiting increased expression during development of the parasitic yeast phase comprised those involved in heat-shock responses, general metabolism, and cell-wall biosynthesis, as well as a small GTPase that regulates nuclear membrane transport and mitotic processes in fungi. The cognate gene encoding the latter protein, designated RanA, was subsequently cloned and characterized. The P. marneffei RanA protein sequence, which contained the signature motif of Ran-GTPases, exhibited 90% homology to homologous Aspergillus proteins. This study clearly demonstrates the utility of proteomic approaches to studying dimorphism in P. marneffei. Moreover, this strategy complements and extends current genetic methodologies directed towards understanding the molecular mechanisms of phase transition. Finally, the documented increased levels of RanA expression suggest that cellular development in this fungus involves additional signaling mechanisms than have been previously described in P. marneffei.
Pressure shifts of Cs absorption lines due to binary mixtures of rare gases

Abstract The pressure shifts of high member lines of Cs due to binary mixtures of He and Ar, Kr or Xe, with proper mixing ratios, are shown to be approximately zero. This is in agreement with the author's collective perturbation model.
Time resolved nonequilibrium phonon dynamics in the nonradiative decay of photoexcited forsterite

Information on the nonequilibrium phonon dynamics of the 225 cm−1 and 335 cm−1 modes on forsterite has been obtained using time resolved Raman scattering. The observed nonequilibrium phonon population is associated with the overall complex nonradiative decay following the excitation of the impurity ion.
Texting behind the Wheel and Beyond: A Look at Problematic Habits

Texting while driving is a dangerous behavior that is heavily researched. However, there are other problematic texting habits that are less well-researched. A study was performed to examine other p...
Counseling a Client Whose Family Member is Planning a Suicide

Planned suicide is a topic that receives much attention in both the popular press and the scholarly literature, and it is not unlikely that family counselors will have clients who ask for assistance as they deal with this topic. In this article, the author provides a case scenario followed by a discussion of pertinent legal and ethical issues.
Set-Point Generation Using Kernel-Based Methods for Closed-Loop Combustion Control of a CIDI Engine

Closed-loop control of diesel combustion is of great interest for improving conventional Diesel engine combustion as well as facilitating new combustion modes such as Homogenous Charge Compression Ignition and other low NOx regimes. Most generalized feedback control systems that can be applied to this problem require a reference or set-point which the control attempts to achieve. Diesel engines are well known for having many degrees of freedom which poses a problem in generating valid set-points for all possible conditions encountered in practice. This problem is compounded by the fact that these set-points are usually determined in steady state operation further limiting the space where set-points can be defined. Kernel-based methods are applied to this problem as a method of generating valid setpoints when operating in regions outside of the space where set-points are defined. This is most useful during transient conditions where conditions such as exhaust gas recycle level, manifold air flow, and fuel mass are far from the steady state values.© 2009 ASME
Formation of mixed oxide powders in flames: Part I. TiO2−SiO2

Mixed oxide powders, e.g., Al2O3−TiO2, SiO2−GeO2, and TiO2−SiO2, are used in industry to produce ceramics, optical fibers, catalysts, and paint opacifiers. The properties of these products depend upon the morphology of the powders. Ceramics and optical fibers are produced using either a uniform mixture of multicomponent particles or a uniform solution. The desired morphology for catalysts is a high surface area and many active sites. TiO2 coated with a layer of SiO2 is the desired structure for use as a paint opacifier. In this paper, TiO2−SiO2 mixed oxide powders were synthesized using a counterflow diffusion flame burner. TiCl4 and SiCl4 were used as source materials for the formation of oxide particles in hydrogen-oxygen flames. In situ particle sizes were determined using dynamic light scattering. A thermophoretic sampling method also was used to collect particles directly onto carbon coated grids, and their size, morphology, and crystalline form examined using a transmission electron microscope. A photomultiplier at 90° to the argon ion laser beam was used to measure the light-scattering intensity. The effect of temperature and of Si to Ti concentration ratio on particle morphology was investigated. Strong temperature dependence was observed. At high temperatures, TiO2 particles were covered with discrete SiO2 particles. At low temperatures, the structure changes to TiO2 particles encapsulated by SiO2. TEM diffraction pattern measurements showed that the TiO2 is rutile and the SiO2 is amorphous silica. At high Si to Ti ratios, SiO2-encapsulated TiO2 particles form. At low Si to Ti ratios, one obtains TiO2 particles covered with discrete SiO2 particles.
A Causality Approach to Particle Dynamics for Systems

Causality in physics is an old idea which emphasizes the notion that there are ‘causes’ and ‘responses’ to those causes; this relationship is expressed through a fundamental equation which is supposed to describe the evolution of a dynamical system of particles. In a most elementary example, one may identify the power input to a system as the ‘cause’ and the rate of change of the internal plus kinetic energy of the system as representing the ‘response’. In this case, the balance of one against the other is a statement of balance of energy for the dynamical system; such balance is often postulated as fundamental in mechanics. It is the purpose of this paper to investigate a more fundamental causality based approach for describing the dynamics of a system of particles. Forces intrinsic and extrinsic to the system are distinguished and an evolutionary causality law, which is form-invariant under a change of frame, is proposed. We assume, as is common, that intrinsic forces are objective under a general change of frame. Extrinsic forces are assumed to be objective only under a Galilean (that is, inertial) change of frame. This limited objectivity will play a major role in reducing the fundamental proposed ‘law of causality’ to what is recognized as the classical balance of energy for the system. The concept of mass is not introduced as primitive in this work; the existence of ‘inertial constants’, each of which associates with a specific particle of the system, is a result of the theory. Double and triple binding forces between pairs and triples of particles are admitted as fundamental to the intrinsic force structure of this theory. The balance of linear momentum for the system is derived and a generalized intrinsic force action-reaction principle is obtained. The emergence from the causality theory of pair- and triple-particle potential functions is discussed and these potential functions are shown to be intimately related to the internal binding force structure. Moreover, in Theorem 6.1 the underlying invariance structure of the theory shows that the double and triple binding forces must be separately ‘moment-balanced’ and that this gives rise to the balance of moment-of-momentum for the system. Finally, a constitutive theory for the binding forces is posited and it is shown that the double binding forces are determined by the pair-particle potential function and that the triple binding forces are determined by the triple-particle potential function.
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide: Effect on Embryos

Injection of lysergic acid diethylamide tartrate into mice in early pregnancy caused a 57 percent incidence of grossly abnormal embryos.
Identification of Multiple Feature Representations by Volume Decomposition for 2.5-Dimensional Components

Decomposition of computer-aided design models into features that can be directly manufactured and easily translated from one representation to another has been recognized as a necessity for robust automated process planning systems, The algorithms presented here yield multiple representations of features that can be used to generate plans that are easily and efficiently manufacturable by milling processes. Features are recognized from the faces of a prismatic stock by first identifying missing regions on the external faces of the stock and then recursively descending into the part. Each missing region corresponds to a feature. As the projection of the feature is swept into the part, changes in the cross-section are identified. These denote the beginning of new features which become children of the original feature. This process yields a set of six trees, each of which resembles a depth-first search tree and is a partial ordering of features within a setup. Multiple representations are investigated for those features that are accessible from more than one direction. Corresponding features in the different trees are linked by arcs, thus yielding a feature graph. The feature graph can then be used to generate optimal features for machining depending on design or manufacturing requirements such as fixtures, tolerances, corner radii, and tool accessibility.
Finite-element solutions for geothermal systems

Vector potential and scalar potential are used to formulate the governing equations for a single-component and single-phase geothermal system. By assuming an initial temperature field, the fluid velocity can be determined which, in turn, is used to calculate the convective heat transfer. The energy equation is then solved by considering convected heat as a distributed source. Using the resulting temperature to compute new source terms, the final results are obtained by iterations of the procedure. Finite-element methods are proposed for modeling of realistic geothermal systems; the advantages of such methods are discussed. The developed methodology is then applied to a sample problem. Favorable agreement is obtained by comparisons with a previous study.
Farmer identity, ethical attitudes and environmental practices

Abstract There is increasing concern for environmental degradation caused by agricultural activity. Although large-scale agribusinesses are generally implicated, farmers themselves are often seen as culpable. We investigate whether farmer identity is an important factor affecting their attitudes toward the environment and farm management and conservation practices. Identity refers to a general outlook or perspective, whereas attitudes refer to beliefs or preferences about specific things. We investigate which identities matter most for affecting how farmers view the appropriateness of specific ethical situations relating to environmental management practices. We use a social–psychological model of ethical decision-making, and data from a survey of Missouri farmers, to examine the relationship between the identity of farmers and their attitudes toward ethical issues affecting the environment. We find that a conservation identity, in contrast to a productivist one, is most closely correlated with attitudes toward ethical environmental issues, although there is also an important interaction effect with one's view about the future.
Health Reform In Massachusetts Increased Adult Dental Care Use, Particularly Among The Poor

States frequently expand or limit dental benefits for adults covered by Medicaid. As part of statewide health reform in 2006, Massachusetts expanded dental benefits to all adults ages 19–64 whose annual income was at or below 100 percent of the federal poverty level. We examined the impact of this reform and found that it led to an increase in dental care use among the Massachusetts adult population, driven by gains among poor adults. Compared to the prereform period, dental care use increased by 2.9 percentage points among all nonelderly adults in Massachusetts, relative to all nonelderly adults in eight control states. For poor Massachusetts adults, the effect was larger—an eleven-percentage-point increase in dental care use above the increase among the state’s nonpoor residents. The Massachusetts experience provides evidence that providing dental benefits to poor adults through Medicaid can improve dental care access and use. Our results imply that the lack of expanded dental coverage for low-income ad...
Mortality and Radiation Exposures of Massachusetts Dentists

A study of Massachusetts dentists shows that, in a six-year period, a significant increase in film speed and reduction in milliampere “on” time have been achieved in the use of dental X-ray apparatus. Among dental society members there has been no excess mortality ascribable to the use of radiation and it is believed that X-ray procedures now carried out are safe.
Simultaneous Endoscopic Antrostomy and Orbital Reconstruction in Silent Sinus Syndrome

Purpose: To review the surgical outcome of five cases of silent sinus syndrome (SSS) who were treated with simultaneous endoscopic antrostomy and orbital implant placement. Patients with SSS often present with cosmetic change to their facial appearance (enophthalmos, hypoglobus, deep upper lid sulcus). Design: Retrospective case series. Methods: Chart review was performed for cases of SSS who were seen between 1995 and 2003 in two tertiary eye care centers. The age, affected side, presenting symptoms and duration, history of trauma, smoking, and chronic sinusitis, degree of enophthalmos and hypoglobus were recorded. Results: All patients had a satisfactory post-operative result with correction of the enophthalmos, hypoglobus, and deep upper lid crease deformity. There were no untoward effects such orbital implant infection, diplopia, vision loss or hematoma. Conclusion: Simultaneous endoscopic antrostomy and orbital implant placement can achieve a satisfactory outcome in cases of SSS with significant enop...
Definition of the design space in which convergence can occur with a combined cycle propulsion system

Abstract Previous papers provided an available energy basis for a Rocket Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) propulsion system analyses. The RBCC concept emerged from the advanced injector ramjet research of the early 1960's, so it is not a new concept. These available energy papers did not provide any insight into design convergence for a specific concept. If a propellant volume, based parametric payload sizing results, is introduced a convergence criteria emerges that can identify the airframe and propulsion parametric combinations that converge. Three principal findings from the previous papers are summarized. The existence of a criterion for determining design convergence is presented. Results from four individual parametric investigations are presented., 1) Configuration Concept Geometry, 2) Payload Weight/Propellant Volume, 3) Propulsion System Configuration and, 4) Conical Configuration Concepts.
Hydrolysis of alpha naphthyl acetate and l-leucyl naphthylamide by barley enzymes

Abstract Germinated barley contains four enzymes which hydrolyze α-naphthyl acetate (ANA) and one which hydrolyzes l -leucyl-β-naphthylamide (LNA). These enzymes were purified by treatment of dialyzed extracts with carboxymethyl cellulose and Sephadex G-100. Two ANA-ases (ANA-ase II and IV) and LNA-ase were characterized. ANA-ase IV was resistant to extremes of pH and temperature. ANA-ase II and LNA-ase were inactivated at low pH and elevated temperature. K m values for these enzymes are given.
Hydrogen elimination from the butyl cation. Energy partitioning and transition-state geometry

Abstract Energy partitioning accompanying metastable ion dissociation of C 4 H 9 + with H 2 elimination is rationalized by calculating the transition-state geometry and the reaction profile using MINDO/3. The essentially quantitative disposal of the reverse activation energy into translation is associated with a tight pyramidal activated complex which is structurally analogous to CH 5 + . Comparisons with previous results show that this is one of two geometries which are now known to yield large partitioning quotients for 1,2-hydrogen eliminations. The intermediacy of “solvated ion” structures in unimolecular disassociation is discussed.
Conformation spaces of proteins.

We report a simple method for measuring the accessible conformational space explored by an ensemble of protein structures. The method is useful for diverse ensembles derived from molecular dynamics trajectories, molecular modeling, and molecular structure determinations. It can be used to examine a wide range of time scales. The central tactic we use, which has been previously employed, is to replace the true mechanical degrees of freedom of a molecular system with the conformationally effective degrees of freedom as measured by the root-mean squared cartesian distances among all pairs of conformations. Each protein conformation is treated as a point in a high dimensional euclidean space. In this article, we model this space in a novel way by representing it as an N-dimensional hypercube, describable with only two parameters: the number of dimensions and the edge length. To validate this approach, we provide a number of elementary test cases and then use the N-cube method for measuring the size and shape of conformational space covered by molecular dynamics trajectories spanning 10 orders of magnitude in time. These calculations were performed on a small protein, the villin headpiece subdomain, exploring both the native state and the misfolded/folding regime. Distinct features include single, vibrationally averaged, substate minima on the 0.1–1-ps time scale, thermally averaged conformational states that persist for 1–100 ps and transitions between these local minima on nanosecond time scales. Large-scale refolding modes appear to become uncorrelated on the microsecond time scale. Associated length scales for these events are 0.2 A for the vibrational minima; 0.5 A for the conformational minima; and 1–2 A for the nanosecond events. We find that the conformational space that is dynamically accessible during folding of villin has enough volume for ∼109 minima of the variety that persist for picoseconds. Molecular dynamics trajectories of the native protein and experimentally derived solution ensembles suggest the native state to be composed of ∼102 of these thermally accessible minima. Thus, based on random exploration of accessible folding space alone, protein folding for a small protein is predicted to be a milliseconds time scale event. This time can be compared with the experimental folding time for villin of 10–100 μs. One possible explanation for the 10–100-fold discrepancy is that the slope of the “folding funnel” increases the rate 1–2 orders of magnitude above random exploration of substates. Proteins 2001;42:495–511. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A CRISPR way to engineer the human genome

RNA-guided genome engineering based on the type II prokaryotic CRISPR/Cas system provides an efficient and versatile method for targeted manipulation of mammalian genomes.