cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Turbine Blade Tip Leakage Flow Control: Thick/Thin Blade Effects and Separation Line Studies

An experiment was conducted in a linear cascade of Pratt and Whitney Pak-B turbine blades for an exit Mach number of 0.3 to simulate the flow in the tip-gap region of a low pressure turbine blade row. The experiment focused on the independent effects of thickness-to-gap (t/g) and gap-to-chord (g/c) ratios on the tip-gap flow behavior. Two extreme g/c ratios of 5% and 8% were chosen, for which four tip t/g ratios were simulated using pressure-side winglets. The flow was documented through blade-tip and end-wall static pressure measurements, and downstream total pressure loss coefficients. Additionally, surface flow visualization was performed on the blade tip end for a greater understanding of the gap-flow behavior. The response of the flow to passive flow control using a partial suction-side squealer tip at each of the t/g and g/c cases was documented. The intention was to examine any sensitivity of the flow to the g/c ratio that might be attributed to the t/g ratio in a manner that can be categorized as “thick” or “thin” blade behavior. For this, the focus was on possible changes in the size and location of separation and reattachment lines on the blade tip end. The results presented in this paper indicate that the behavior of the flow in the tip-gap region of a linear cascade turbine blade depend both on t/g and the g/c ratios. Downstream loss coefficients generally decreased with increasing t/g for the 5% g/c case, while they were relatively steady with a slight increase with increasing t/g for the 8% g/c case. The squealer reduced pressure loss coefficient for both g/c cases. It was seen to have a peak effectiveness at t/g of about 3.7 for the 5% g/c case, and at t/g of 3.3 for the 8% g/c case, with diminishing effectiveness at larger t/g ratios. Blade loading showed similar dependence on both g/c and t/g. For the baseline flat-tip case, the tip loading initially decreased with increasing t/g up to about 3.5. For values greater than 3.5, the tip loading increased slightly. The addition of the squealer tip increased the tip loading for all of the t/g ratios at the 5% g/c ratio. The trend with t/g generally followed that of the baseline flat-tip case. However, for the 8% g/c case, the blade loading increased almost linearly with increasing t/g, and the squealer increased loading at the smallest t/g but decreased loading for all other t/g cases investigated. In all cases regardless of the t/g, the surface flow visualization revealed a well defined separation and reattachment region. However, the chordwise location of the start of the separation moved toward the trailing edge with increasing t/g and, independently, with increasing g/c. Therefore, no “thick” or “thin” blade regimes were found, and flow characteristics were determined to depend on both g/c and t/g ratios.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
A nonparametric stochastic procedure for FMS evaluation

Abstract Evaluating alternative manufacturing technologies in the presence of multiple performance measures is often a difficult task for the decision maker. It is for this reason that justification and evaluation of flexible manufacturing systems has been receiving significant attention in the manufacturing circles. This paper proposes an innovative framework, which is based on the combined application of data envelopment analysis and nonparametric statistical procedures, for the selection of flexible manufacturing systems. The strengths of this methodology are that it incorporates variability measures in the performance of alternative systems, provides decision maker with effective alternative choices by identifying homogeneous groups of systems, and presents graphic aids for better interpretation of results. The methodology is illustrated through its application on a previously reported data set.
Race differences in factors relating to smoking initiation

To investigate race differences in retrospectively-reported early smoking experiences, we studied African-American (n=48) and Caucasian (n=155) current smokers who participated in a study designed to identify phenotypic and genotypic factors associated with smoking. Compared with Caucasian smokers, African-American smokers were less educated (mean+/-s.e.m.: 13.3+/-0.25 vs. 14.3 +/- 0.16; p<.01), had higher BMI (28.9+/-1.06 vs. 26.7+/-0.52; p<.05), and smoked significantly fewer cigarettes/day (14.1+/-1.00 vs. 18.4+/-0.74; p<.01). Ninety percent of African-American smokers consumed menthol cigarettes, as opposed to 25% of Caucasian smokers. African-American smokers were significantly older than Caucasian smokers upon initial smoking experimentation (17.4+/-1.1 vs. 14.7+/-0.3; p<.05) and onset of regular smoking (19.7+/-0.9 vs. 17.4+/-0.4; p<.05). African-American smokers were significantly more likely than Caucasian smokers to endorse global pleasurable sensations (48% vs. 30%; p<.05), "pleasurable rush or buzz" (62% vs. 43%; p<.05), and "relaxing" (45% vs. 27%; p<.05) as early experiences with smoking, whereas Caucasian smokers were marginally more likely to report dizziness and difficulty inhaling (61% vs. 45%; p<.10 and 48% vs. 31%; p<.10, respectively). Caucasian smokers were significantly more likely to endorse friends (6.9+/-0.2 vs. 4.8+/-0.4; p<.0001) and "perk me up" (4.2+/-0.3 vs. 3.1+/-0.4; p<.05) and marginally more likely to endorse buzz (4.2+/-0.2 vs. 3.4+/-0.5; p<.10) as reasons for starting to smoke. Further research is needed to determine the relative contributions of genetic, developmental, and socio-cultural factors to these findings.
Typification of Musa salaccensis and nomenclatural notes on Musa (Musaceae)

Hakkinen M. & Vare H. 2009. — Typification of Musa salaccensis and nomenclatural notes on Musa (Musaceae). Adansonia, ser. 3, 31 (1): 41-46.
Life science research using positron annihilation spectroscopy: UV-irradiated mouse skin

Abstract Positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) is applied to study mouse skin under different UV irradiations as a function of positron incident energy (0–30 keV). Significant variations in the depth profile of S parameter are observed in a period of hours and of days for UVA and UVB exposures, respectively. The high sensitivity of positron annihilation signals responding to UV irradiation shows that PAS may be developed as a new noninvasive technique for the detection of molecular damage in life science research.
Abstract 5152: Targeting HIF1α-mediated metabolic alterations in pancreatic cancer

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Pancreatic cancer (PC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States, with a five-year survival rate of less than 6%. Pancreatic tumors demonstrate high intra-tumoral hypoxia and low oxygen tension, which causes the stabilization of transcription factor Hypoxia-Inducible Factor1α (HIF-1α). HIF1α, in turn, mediates the metabolic alterations that facilitate tumor progression and metastasis. The objective of our study was to investigate the individual roles of HIF factors in mediating metabolic alterations in PC. Our extensive immunohistochemical studies in human pancreatic cancer tissue samples demonstrate an up-regulation of glycolytic enzymes and HIF-1α, in comparison to the normal tissues. The gene up-regulations were even more pronounced in the tumor cells as compared to the stroma. Additionally, we screened a panel of PC cell lines and found that almost all the cell lines demonstrate a significant increase in the uptake of [3H]-2DG, a glucose analogue, under hypoxic conditions. There was also a concurrent hypoxia-induced increase in lactate secretion and in the expression of glycolytic genes, as determined by colorimetric assays and real-time PCR analyses, respectively. To investigate the therapeutic efficacy of targeting HIF factors in pancreatic cancer, we established stable knockdowns for HIF-1α and HIF-2α; in Capan-1, Capan-2, S2-013, CFPAC-1 and T3M4 PC cell lines by utilizing short hairpin RNA technology. We then performed metabolic assays in these cells to investigate the distinct roles of HIF isoforms in the glycolytic phenotype of the PC cells. Our results indicate that knocking down HIF-1α significantly reduces glucose uptake under hypoxic conditions, while HIF-2α knockdown had no effect on glucose uptake. Real-time PCR and immunoblotting analyses demonstrated that knocking down HIF-1α, but not HIF-2α, reduced the levels of GLUT-1, HK-2 and LDHA. NMR-based metabolomics studies also confirmed the effect of digoxin-mediated HIF-1α inhibition on the levels of metabolic intermediates. To confirm our findings in vivo, we performed orthotropic implantation of control and HIF knockdown PC cells in athymic nude mice. Our in vivo glucose uptake, tumor growth, and metastasis studies confirmed our in vitro findings. Furthermore by utilizing a HIF-1α inhibitor, digoxin, we observed similar reduction in glucose uptake, tumor growth and metastasis in orthotopic implantation models. Digoxin treatment also improved survival in tumor bearing mice and a combination therapy with gemcitabine further improved survival synergistically. Overall, our results confirm the therapeutic potential of targeting HIF-1α to improve survival in PC. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5152. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-5152
Concerning the formations of α-iodoenones

Abstract The formations of α-iodoenones from secondary alkynols with NIS/HTIB (cat.), tertiary alkynols with I 2 /PDC and enones with I 2 /pyridine have been compared. In the latter two reactions the PDC and the pyridine have been found to be catalytic.
Simulation of stochastic processes in motile crossbridge systems.

The underlying stochastic nature of many models of the actomyosin interaction should result in fluctuations in both force and shortening velocity. In classical experimental approaches involving intact or glycerinated muscle preparations these fluctuations are too small to resolve owing to the large numbers of crossbridges involved. However, new experimental techniques allow mechanical measurements to be made in systems in which small numbers of myosin heads act on a single actin filament, or small numbers of kinesin molecules act on a single tubulin filament. In these systems, stochastic effects should be evident. To understand better the nature of the expected stochastic effects, we have used computer simulation to investigate the fluctuations predicted by the original model for muscle crossbridge mechanics proposed by A. F. Huxley. We consider three situations : (1) the translation of actin or tubulin filaments by myosin or kinesin motors immobilized on a fixed substrate, (2) the production of tension by ensembles of immobilized myosin which involve the displacement of an elastic load, and (3) the fluctuations in axial displacement of a single, bipolar myosin thick filament interacting with actin filaments as in a sarcomere. In all three cases, fluctuations are clearly evident in simulations involving small numbers of motors. For case (1), we show that translation velocities can vary with crossbridge density. Whether one motor translates a filament faster, slower or at the same speed as many motors depends on the relative magnitudes of the attachment and detachment rate functions. Analytical expressions are provided to quantitate this relationship. For case (2), we show that fluctuations predicted assuming perfectly isometric conditions differ from those observed when the ‘isometric state’ is achieved against an elastic load. ‘Elastic damping’ of the fluctuations in the system results from the presence of many attached motors. In case (3) we show that in spite of the presence of stochastic fluctuations which can destabilize the uniformity of filament overlap in a sarcomere, the magnitude of thick filament displacement is less than might be anticipated over time periods ofin vivo contraction. Taken together, these simulations allow one to better interpret experimental data in terms of current models of motor function.
Roles for Nox4 in the contractile response of bovine pulmonary arteries to hypoxia.

Hypoxia appears to promote contraction [hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV)] of bovine pulmonary arteries (BPA) through removal of a peroxide-mediated relaxation. This study examines the roles of BPA Nox oxidases and mitochondria in the HPV response. Inhibitors of Nox2 (0.1 mM apocynin and 50 μM gp91-dstat) and mitochondrial electron transport (10 μM antimycin and rotenone) decreased superoxide generation in BPA without affecting contraction to 25 mM KCl or the HPV response. Transfection of BPA with small inhibitory RNA (siRNA) for Nox2 and Nox4 decreased Nox2 and Nox4 protein expression, respectively, associated with an attenuation of superoxide detection, without affecting 25 mM KCl contraction. However, Nox4 siRNA, but not Nox2, attenuated HPV in BPA. A Nox4 inhibitor plumbagin (10 μM) increased basal force, decreased superoxide detection and peroxide release, and caused BPA to relax under hypoxia. Although acute removal of peroxide with 0.1 mM ebselen increased 25 mM KCl contraction and decreased hypoxic contraction, prolonged treatment with ebselen only decreased hypoxic contraction without affecting 25 mM KCl contraction, suggesting basal peroxide levels also maintain a contractile mechanism not removed by acute hypoxia. Organ culture of BPA with transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 (4 nM) increased Nox4 expression, superoxide, peroxide, and the HPV response. Thus Nox2 and mitochondria are sources for superoxide generation in BPA, which do not appear to influence the HPV response. However, peroxide derived from superoxide generated by Nox4 appears to maintain a basal relaxation in BPA under normoxic conditions, which is removed under hypoxia leading to HPV. Peroxide generated by Nox4 may also function to maintain a contractile mechanism, which is not reversed by acute hypoxia.
Models to Predict Fall History and Fall Risk for Community-Dwelling Elderly

ABSTRACTThe objective of this study was to compare fall-risk models for the prediction of 1-year fall history in community-dwelling elderly persons. The study design was a descriptive analysis of factors associated with retrospective fall history for individuals living in community-based independent living facilities. Thirty-three older adults (10 men and 23 women, mean age ± standard deviation, 82.6 ± 5.5 years) volunteered to participate. The main outcome measure was multivariate logistic regression models using a minimal set of predictor variables for predicting 1-year fall history and fall-risk status. The results showed that a fall history prediction model using age, gait velocity, and time to complete Trails Making Test Part B yielded 76% of overall predictive accuracy (75% sensitivity, 76% specificity). A second logistic regression with gait speed eliminated was used to identify fall-risk status (fall history plus a positive score on the Timed Up and Go test) with similar results. These findings su...
Turbulent solutions of the equations of fluid motion

Some turbulent solutions of the unaveraged Navier-Stokes equations (equations of fluid motion) are reviewed. Those equations are solved numerically in order to study the nonlinear physics of incompressible turbulent flow. Initial three-dimensional cosine velocity fluctuations and periodic boundary conditions are used in most of the work considered. The three components of the mean-square velocity fluctuations are initially equal for the conditions chosen. The resulting solutions show characteristics of turbulence such as the linear and nonlinear excitation of small-scale fluctuations. For the stronger fluctuations, the initially nonrandom flow develops into an apparently random turbulence. Thus randomness or turbulence can arise as a consequence of the structure of the Navier-Stokes equations. The cases considered include turbulence which is statistically homogeneous or inhomogeneous and isotropic or anisotropic. A mean shear is present in some cases. A statistically steady-state turbulence is obtained by using a spatially periodic body force. Various turbulence processes, including the transfer of energy between eddy sizes and between directional components, and the production, dissipation, and spatial diffusion of turbulence, are considered. It is concluded that the physical processes occurring in turbulence can be profitably studied numerically.
Molecular Basis of Canine Muscle Type Phosphofructokinase Deficiency

Muscle type phosphofructokinase (M-PFK) deficiency is a rare inherited glycogen storage disease in humans that causes exertional myopathy and hemolysis. The molecular basis of canine M-PFK deficiency, the only naturally occurring animal homologue, was investigated. Lack of M-PFK enzyme activity was caused by a nonsense mutation in the penultimate exon of the M-PFK gene, leading to rapid degradation of a truncated (40 amino acids) and therefore unstable M-PFK protein. A polymerase chain reaction-based test was devised to identify M-PFK-deficient and carrier animals. This represents one of only a few inborn errors of metabolism where the molecular defect has been identified in a large animal model which can now be used to develop and assess novel therapeutic strategies.
Analyzing radiometric requirements for diurnal observations of coastal/oceanic waters from geostationary orbits

Over the decades, ocean color imaging sensors placed in Low Earth Orbits (LEO) have enabled nearly daily measurements of ocean water properties. Such observations, however, are restricted by cloud/atmospheric conditions. More importantly, such systems could not provide sufficient number of measurements to study the diurnal dynamics of coastal/oceanic ecosystems. One way to surmount such limitations is to leverage geo-stationary orbits to significantly improve temporal observations over such dynamical coastal/oceanic environments. In this study, it is desired to examine whether 50% changes in chlorophyll-a concentration (< 1.5 ug⁄l) on a semi-diurnal basis are above the noise level. To do so, the top-of-atmosphere radiance (Lt) is modeled for the planned GEO-CAPE mission intended for monitoring coastal ecosystem and river plumes. The input to the simulations includes diurnal remote sensing reflectances (Rrs), which are propagated through a moderately clear atmospheric conditions using a radiative transfer code. The simulations are carried out for two footprints to investigate two extremely different sun-sensor geometries. From these simulations, the temporal change in spectral reflectances between the hours relative to an average noise is examined. Based on the preliminary results, it was found that while the signal change is, on average, 13x the average noise for near-nadir footprints, the change in signal, on average, is only 1.5x the average noise level for near-edge footprints at top of the atmosphere. Such a contrast suggests difficulties in retrieving diurnal variability for locations near the edge of the field of regard (FOR).
First-principles method for calculating electronic properties of layered structures.

We present a first-principles, computationally efficient method for calculating the electronic structure of layered systems consisting of simple metals. The method involves forming a one-dimensional, planar-averaged potential from a three-dimensional array of ionic pseudopotentials. As an example of its use, we have calculated the work function, electron density, and effective potential for ultrathin Na, K, and Li films. The calculations, which can be performed on a workstation, show good agreement with experimental results and three-dimensional, self-consistent-field pseudopotential calculations taking several hours of central-processing-unit time on a Cray Research, Inc. supercomputer.
Unitary representations of a loop ax+b group, Wiener measure and Γ-function

Abstract We construct a family of irreducible unitary representations of the loop affine group of a line ( a x + b group) with central extension on the Hilbert space of square-integrable functions with respect to the Wiener measure. We relate the matrix coefficients of the elements of the loop a x + b group to the loop analogue of the Γ-function.
THICKNESS-RELATED INSTABILITY OF CU THIN FILMS ON AG(100)

Abstract Copper and silver have a sufficiently large mismatch of lattice parameters that the growth of Cu on Ag(1 0 0) substrates stabilizes the metastable body-centered cubic (BCC) form of Cu. This paper reports that layer-by-layer growth of the BCC film occurs up to a critical thickness of 10 ML, beyond which a structural instability arises in the thin film. This leads to a uniaxial laterally modulated phase giving rise to satellite peaks in the diffraction from both film and substrate. The characteristic dependence of satellite spacing versus film thickness is interpreted in terms of four possible variants of the modulated film structure. Only one of these variants is consistent with the observed growth behavior.
Entrepreneurial Projects Program at Illinois Institute of Technology: Solar/Battery Hybrid Three-Wheel Auto Rickshaw for India

The interprofessional projects (IPRO) program at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) offers a multidisciplinary, practical learning experience by allowing students from different majors to apply their skills to real world projects. In the companion entrepreneurial IPRO (EnPRO) program, which brings together business and engineering majors, the vital link between business and technology is explored. Students of EnPRO projects work not only on developing but also commercializing new products and services, or solving broader societal problems through their business strategies. This paper summarizes the work of EnPRO 351: "solar/battery hybrid (electric) three- wheel auto rickshaw for India". EnPRO 351 parallels a funded technical research and development effort that is taking place at IIT. Students in the project were introduced to the auto rickshaw and its role in the culture and economy of India. Members of this team investigated the political, economic and technological scene in India today with respect to this vehicle. In addition, the concept of electric vehicles (EVs) was examined and the team determined the feasibility of different types of EV auto rickshaws. Investigation into the current petrol (gas), compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) stations also revealed the possibilities for building supporting infrastructure for EV auto rickshaws, as well as incorporating solar technology in current and future stations. This paper gives insight into the research methods employed by the teams during different semesters of the project and the outcomes of this research. Many EnPROs have laid the foundation for new startup ventures, and this is the anticipated result of this project, especially with the parallel development of a solar/battery prototype vehicle. The thorough and detailed work presented here, including a feasibility study and opportunity analysis, may serve as a guideline to future development not only on the vehicle but on new infrastructure as well.
Children's Agricultural Safety Network: evaluating organizational effectiveness and impacts

ABSTRACTCoalitions that are effectively organized and led are more likely to achieve their intended program outcomes and impacts, as well as achieve sustainability. External evaluation of the coalition’s governance and leadership can help identify strengths and areas for improvement. This article describes the evaluation of the Children’s Agricultural Safety Network (CASN)—a national coalition, or network of 45 organizational members. The conceptual framework, Internal Coalition Outcomes Hierarchy, guided the evaluation. We used a mixed-methods approach to answer study’s primary objectives from the perspective of CASN members and leaders for (a) organizational effectiveness, (b) network impact, and (c) member benefits. We collected quantitative data using a survey and the Internal Coalition Effectiveness (ICE) instrument. Focused interviews were conducted by phone to gather rich data on examples. Combined findings showed that both members and leaders rated the CASN effective in all construct areas that de...
Considerations for Integrating Technology in Developing Communities in Latin America

This article discusses issues related to introducing new information and communication technologies (ICT) into Latin American countries. Latin American countries are gaining world focus with political changes such as the death of Hugo Chavez in Venezuela and the election of the first Latin American Pope. This region will host the World Cup, Olympics and IMF World Bank annual meetings in the next 5 years; meanwhile they are projected to continueto experience moderate economic growth (IMF Survey, 2013). We suggest that successful innovation may be achieved through a combination of fundamental concepts of change with a culturally sensitive approach. This article discusses general concerns related to the diffusion of new technologies, the importance of cultural context, and the organization needed within the community for success. The literature review is based three assertions the characteristics of the native culture, general concerns of innovation for new technologies, and the context and organization needed by the community. We assert that to have successful integration of ICTs, innovators must understand the needs of the individuals who will use the innovation, as well as, the key factors that influence the culture, stakeholders, and common goals of the community and employ a strategy that utilizes industry, government and educators to produce lasting change.
In vivo evidence that L-S-nitrosocysteine may exert its vasodilator effects by interaction with thiol residues in the vasculature

Abstract This study examined the effects of the lipophobic thiol chelator, para -hydroxymercurobenzoic acid (25 and 50 μmol/kg, i.v.) on the falls in mean arterial blood pressure and regional vascular resistances produced by l - S -nitrosocysteine (400 nmol/kg, i.v.) and the nitric oxide (NO)-donors, ( Z )-1-| N -methyl- N -[6( N -methylammoniohexyl)amino]|diazen-1-ium-1,2-diolate (MAHMA NONOate, 25 nmol/kg, i.v.) and sodium nitroprusside (10 μg/kg, i.v.), in urethane-anesthetized rats. The l - S -nitrosocysteine-induced responses were markedly diminished whereas the MAHMA NONOate- and sodium nitroprusside-induced responses were minimally affected by para -hydroxymercurobenzoic acid. These results suggest that the vasodilator actions of l - S -nitrosocysteine involves the interaction with membrane thiols in vascular smooth muscle of resistance arteries and that para -hydroxymercurobenzoic acid does not markedly affect NO-mediated vasodilation.
Global analysis of transcriptional regulation by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 and poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) and poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase (PARG) are enzymes that modify target proteins by the addition and removal, respectively, of ADP-ribose polymers. Although a role for PARP-1 in gene regulation has been well established, the role of PARG is less clear. To investigate how PARP-1 and PARG coordinately regulate global patterns of gene expression, we used short hairpin RNAs to stably knock down PARP-1 or PARG in MCF-7 cells followed by expression microarray analyses. Correlation analyses showed that the majority of genes affected by the knockdown of one factor were similarly affected by the knockdown of the other factor. The most robustly regulated common genes were enriched for stress-response and metabolic functions. In chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, PARP-1 and PARG localized to the promoters of positively and negatively regulated target genes. The levels of chromatin-bound PARG at a given promoter generally correlated with the levels of PARP-1 across the subset of promoters tested. For about half of the genes tested, the binding of PARP-1 at the promoter was dependent on the binding of PARG. Experiments using stable re-expression of short hairpin RNA-resistant catalytic mutants showed that PARP-1 and PARG enzymatic activities are required for some, but not all, target genes. Collectively, our results indicate that PARP-1 and PARG, nuclear enzymes with opposing enzymatic activities, localize to target promoters and act in a similar, rather than antagonistic, manner to regulate gene expression.
Lake Malawi's response to “megadrought” terminations: Sedimentary records of flooding, weathering and erosion

Abstract Sediment records from the northern basin of Lake Malawi provide a means of evaluating the lake basin's response to climate change over the past 75 ky, notably to increased precipitation at the terminations of droughts. Transitions from drier to wetter conditions provide an opportunity to evaluate the system's response to climate shifts. Upon termination of drought episodes at 62 and 72 ka, enhanced precipitation and an associated increase in streampower led to enhanced physical erosion and landscapes were flooded by rising lake waters. These processes appear to have left their mark in the sedimentary record, bringing about a spike of deposition of organic matter (probably of terrestrial origin) at times of increased rainfall. This was immediately followed by a period of deposition of chemically-weathered material that had been retained on the landscape during arid times and mobilized in response to increased precipitation. After this altered material was removed (perhaps a thousand years after the transition to wetter conditions), fresher material, richer in soluble elements including nutrients, was exposed to chemical weathering, leading to substantial diatom blooms. The lag between the onset of wetter conditions and the diatom blooms is inconsistent with significant storage of bioavailable silica in soils in this system. However, biological cycling of silica, including formation and dissolution of phytoliths, may have played a role in mobilization of the silica necessary for the diatom productivity.
HUMAN FACE DETECTION USING SILHOUETTES

Face detection is integral to any automatic face recognition system. The goal of this research is to develop a system that performs the task of human face detection automatically in a scene. A system to correctly locate and identify human faces will find several applications, some examples are criminal identification and authentication in secure systems. This work presents a new approach based on principal component analysis. Face silhouettes instead of intensity images are used for this research. It results in reduction in both space and processing time. A set of basis face silhouettes are obtained using principal component analysis. These are then used with a Hough-like technique to detect faces. The results show that the approach is robust, accurate and reasonably fast.
Multiplex genotype determination at a large number of gene loci.

Abstract To facilitate large-scale genotype analysis, an efficient PCR-based multiplex approach has been developed. For simultaneously amplifying the target sequences at a large number of genetic loci, locus-specific primers containing 5' universal tails are used. Attaching the universal tails to the target sequences in the initial PCR steps allows replacement of all specific primers with a pair of primers identical to the universal tails and converts the multiplex amplification into "uniplex." Simultaneous amplification of 26 genetic loci with this approach is described. The multiplex amplification can be coupled with genotype determination. By incorporating a single-base mismatch between a primer and the template into the target sequences, a polymorphic site can be converted into a desirable restriction fragment length polymorphism when it is necessary. In this way, the allelic PCR products for the polymorphic loci can be discriminated by gel electrophoresis after restriction enzyme digestion. In this study, 32 loci were typed in such a multiplex way.
Needed: new and better tools to combat latent tuberculosis infection.

Poor acceptance and adherence to treatment regimens for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) are common. In this issue, Menzies and colleagues found that grade 3 to 4 hepatotoxicity was significant...
Recent advances in CZT strip detectors and coded mask imagers

The UCSD, WU, UCR and Nova collaboration has made significant progress on the necessary techniques for coded mask imaging of gamma-ray bursts: position sensitive CZT detectors with good energy resolution, ASIC readout, coded mask imaging, and background properties at balloon altitudes. Results on coded mask imaging techniques appropriate for wide field imaging and localization of gamma-ray bursts are presented, including a shadowgram and deconvolved image taken with a prototype detector/ASIC and MURA mask.
Comparison of alternative solvents for oils extraction

A comprehensive review of the literature about use of solvents for extraction of oilseeds is presented. Mention has been found of over 70 solvents. Currently, hexane is the major solvent in use, but recent price increases and safety, environmental and health concerns, have generated interest in alternatives. Solvents vary considerably in chemical and physical properties which affect their performance in oil extraction. The choice of solvent depends upon the primary end product desired (oil or meal). Recent research on alternative solvents has focused on ethanol, isopropanol, methylene chloride, aqueous acetone, and hexane/acetone/water mixtures.
Visible-To-Infrared Image Converter For Dynamic Infrared Target Simulation Applications

A visible-to-infrared image converter based on the Hughes 2-in. liquid-crystal light valve is under development at Hughes Research Laboratories. The system is designed to operate in the 2- to 5-μm and 8- to 12-μm spectral ranges. The device consists of an IR-visible transparent input substrate electrode; an IR-transparent, visible-sensitive photoconductor (CdS); and a thin layer of liquid crystal acting as the light modulator medium. The readout window is transparent in the IR range used. The required IR dynamic scenery, generated for convenience in a visible form (e.g., on a CRT), is projected onto the input window, thus activating the photoconductor. This spatial voltage pattern of the required image is transferred to the liquid crystal, thus converting the image to a birefringent spatial modulation. The polarized infrared readout beam projected through the light valve is modulated as it passes through the liquid crystal. The latter operates in the 90° twisted nematic mode. The required IR scenery is then formed as the polarization-modulated IR beam passes a 90° cross-polarizer. The device offers the advantages of (1) maximum flexibility in presenting versatile dynamic IR sceneries and (2) high resolution and contrast. Good performance was demonstrated by a device operating in the 2- to 5-μm range. The proposed approach strongly benefits from the technology that has been developed for the visible-to-visible liquid-crystal light valve over the last few years.
Free Radical Dna Adduct 8-Oh-Deoxyguanosine Affects Activity of Hp a II and Msp I Restriction Endonucleases

8-OH-deoxyguanosine can diminish the ability of the restriction endonucleases Hpa II and Msp I to cleave DNA. The exact position of the adduct within the recognition site appears to determine the extent of the effect.
Trace metal and vitamin requirements of Methanococcoides methylutens grown with trimethylamine

Trace organic nutrient and metal requirements for the growth of Methanococcoides methylutens strain TMA-10 were determined in defined medium that contained trimethylamine as the substrate. Biotin was the only organic supplement required in place of yeast extract, Trypticase or a mixture of 8 B-vitamins. Fe an Ni were required for growth and low concentrations of Fe2+ (<5 μM) and Ni2+ (<0.25 μM) provided limited growth. In the absence of added Co the growth rate was reduced by 94% and growth was limited at concentrations below 0.1 μM. Stimulation of growth by Se, Mo, B, Al, Zn, Mn or Cu could not be demonstrated.
Directness of resource use metrics affects predictions of bear body fat gain

Many North American ursids rely on an annual hyperphagic period to obtain fat reserves necessary for winter survival and reproduction. Identifying causes of variation in body fat gain may improve understanding of how bear resource use affects body condition. We used data from southcentral Alaska to model changes in percentage body fat of adult female American black bears (Ursus americanus) in 1998 and 2000 and brown bears (Ursus arctos) in 2000. We used year, proportion of radio locations in different habitats, distance to streams containing salmon (Onchorynchus spp.), and degree of radio location clustering as predictors for black bears and elevation, distance to streams containing salmon, and degree of radio location clustering as predictors for brown bears. Degree of location clustering was the only predictor variable supported by parameter coefficients in black bear models, supporting our hypothesis that metrics of energetics perform better as predictors of body condition than habitat use. With every unit increase in location clustering black bear body fat increased 2 %. No predictor variables influenced variation in brown bear change in body fat. Some variables previously found useful for predicting bear presence (e.g., habitat) were not useful in predicting changes in body fat, an important biological outcome for these species. Rather than assuming fitness benefits of habitat-level selection, we recommend including metrics of energetics that might more directly influence biological outcomes.
Racial and ethnic differences in statin prescription and clinical outcomes among hospitalized patients with coronary heart disease

We aimed to evaluate the association among race and ethnicity, statin prescription, and clinical outcomes among hospitalized patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), adjusted for confounders. Racial and ethnic disparities in CHD outcomes may be related to differential uptake of preventive medications, but data from real-world settings are limited. This was a 1-year prospective study of patients with preexisting CHD without a documented contraindication to statin (n = 3,067, 35% black or Hispanic, 65% white or Asian, 35% women) who participated in an National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute clinical outcome study of patients admitted to a cardiovascular service. Baseline clinical and medication data and 30-day and 1-year outcomes (death or rehospitalization) were documented by electronic medical record, National Death Index, and/or standardized mail survey. Logistic regression was used to evaluate associations among race and ethnicity, statin prescription, and outcomes adjusted for demographics and co-morbidities. Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to be dead or rehospitalized at 1 year (odds ratio [OR] 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06 to 1.43) and less likely to report statin use before admission (62% vs 72%, adjusted OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.76) than whites and Asians; statin prescription was similar at discharge among blacks and Hispanics (81%) versus whites and Asians (84%). Black and Hispanic patients were more likely to have hypertension, diabetes, or renal failure and less likely to have health insurance than whites and Asians (p
Intelligent mechanical sensorless MPPT control for wind energy systems

Wind energy systems (WESs) are usually equipped with mechanical sensors to measure wind speed, rotor shaft speed, and generator rotor position/speed for system monitoring, control, and protection. The use of these sensors increases cost, size, weight, and hardware wiring complexity and reduces reliability of WESs. The problems incurred in using mechanical sensors can be solved through mechanical sensorless control. This paper presents the principles of mechanical sensorless maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control for WESs based on an overview of existing work on the subject. Several intelligent mechanical sensorless control algorithms for WESs are presented, including: 1) a hill-climb search (HCS)-based wind speed sensor-less MPPT control algorithm, 2) various artificial neural network (ANN)-based wind speed sensorless MPPT control algorithms, and 3) an ANN-sliding mode observer (SMO)-based wind speed, generator rotor position and shaft speed sensorless MPPT control algorithm. The effectiveness of these intelligent mechanical sensorless MPPT control algorithms are demonstrated by computer simulations as well as experiments on practical WESs.
What Drives Decisions of Single-Occupant Travelers in High-Occupancy Vehicle Lanes? Investigation Using Archived Traffic and Tolling Data from MnPASS Express Lanes

High-occupancy toll (HOT) lanes are in operation, under construction, and planned in several major metropolitan areas. The premise behind HOT lanes is to allow single-occupant vehicles (SOVs) to access high-occupancy vehicle lanes (and a higher level of service) if they are willing to pay a toll. To maintain a high level of service in the HOT lanes, the toll rate is set dynamically to restrict the number of SOVs that access the facility lanes as they near capacity. Thus, HOT facilities provide operators of transportation systems with an additional tool: pricing. To use pricing effectively, it is critical for those operators to understand how drivers behave when faced with a set of traffic conditions and toll levels. This paper presents the results of an empirical investigation into the relationship between toll rate, traffic conditions, and SOV driver behavior, on the basis of data from the dynamically tolled I-394 HOT facility in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Analysis of the empirical data indicated that a lar...
Biomimetic Micro Underwater Vehicle with Oscillating Fin Propulsion: System Design and Force Measurement

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and force measurement of a centimeter scale micro underwater vehicle mimicking a boxfish. The principles of locomotion of real boxfish have been investigated thoroughly from a biological point of view, but attempts to replicate such a device within the research community of Micro Underwater Vehicles (MUV) have been quite limited. The authors have developed a electromechanical device with rigid body propelled by a oscillating tail fin and steered by a pair of independent side fins. The oscilating motions of the fins are independently controlled by PZT bimorph actuators driving four-bar mechanisms for motion amplification. The goal is to build a centimeter-length microrobotic fish capable of sustained autonomous swimming, which can then be used in marine micro-organism sensing, underwater ship wreck explorations, in-pipe inspections, and in forming underwater sensor networks. In this paper, we present the system concept design, fabrication and preliminary experimental measurements.
Risk factors for sleep-disordered breathing in pregnancy

Rationale Symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) are common among pregnant women, and several studies link SDB symptoms with gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. However, few prospective studies objectively measuring SDB during pregnancy have been performed. Objectives We performed a prospective cohort study examining risk factors for third trimester SDB in pregnant women. Measurements and methods 105 pregnant women from the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania obstetrics practices completed first and third trimester overnight polysomnography studies. We examined whether the number of SDB events per hour of sleep increased during pregnancy. We performed unadjusted and multivariable logistic regression analyses to estimate the effects of usual and pregnancy-specific characteristics on development of third trimester obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). In secondary analyses, we examined the relationship between objectively measured SDB, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and other adverse maternal-fetal outcomes. Main results Mean Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index increased from 2.07 (SD 3.01) events/h at baseline (first trimester) to 3.74 (SD 5.97) in the third trimester (p=0.009). 10.5% of women had OSA in the first trimester. By the third trimester, 26.7% of women had OSA. In multivariable analyses, first trimester body mass index (BMI) and maternal age were significantly associated with third trimester OSA. Conclusions Third trimester OSA is common. Risk factors for third trimester OSA among women without baseline SDB include higher baseline BMI and maternal age.
Cytotoxic T‐Cell Clones Isolated from Ovarian Tumour Infiltrating Lymphocytes Recognize Common Determinants on Non‐Ovarian Tumour Clones

CTL-TIL lines have been developed from tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) from the ascites of patients with ovarian carcinoma, and used to investigate whether common tumour antigens are expressed on allogeneic ovarian tumours epithelial tumour lines derived from colon and pancreatic carcinoma. Three CTL lines expressed preferential cytolytic activity against autologous tumour cells and against certain allogeneic ovarian tumour cells that shared HLA-A2 molecules. Analysis of the target specificity of these CTL lines indicated that they also lysed human colon and pancreatic tumour lines sharing HLA-A2. CTL-TIL clones isolated from these lines were found to lyse HLA-A2+ ovarian, colon and pancreatic tumours, and to recognize clonally distributed common epitopes on pancreas and colon tumour clones. These results indicate that shared tumour antigens can be found among tumours of common epithelial cell origin. These results indicate a novel class of T-cell-definable tumour antigens recognized by tumour-reactive CTL on human tumours and may be significant for understanding of cellular immunity in ovarian cancer, identification of CTL-defined tumour antigens and future adoptive specific immunotherapeutic approaches in ovarian cancer.
Self-Control, Prison Victimization, and Prison Infractions:

Gottfredson and Hirschi’s self-control theory has been the subject of much debate and empirical testing. Although the theory was developed originally as an explanation for criminal offending, researchers recently have examined whether low self-control may increase the risk of criminal victimization. This study assesses the effects of low self-control on victimization and offending among the incarcerated. We utilize structural equation models to test the impact of low self-control on prison victimization and prison infractions based on a study involving 208 recently paroled inmates from a Midwestern state. The results indicate that risk taking is a significant predictor of prison victimization and temper is a significant predictor of infractions. We conclude that self-control theory is a potential predictor of prison infractions and victimization and that personality traits seen as generally criminogenic in the free world may have particular situational ramifications in prison.