cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Initial-Condition Sensitivities and the Predictability of Downslope Winds

The sensitivity of downslope wind forecasts to small changes in initial conditions is explored by using 70-memberensemblesimulationsoftwoprototypicalwindstormsobservedduringtheTerrain-InducedRotor Experiment (T-REX).The10 weakestand 10 strongest ensemblemembersare compositedand compared for each event. In the first case, the 6-h ensemble-mean forecast shows a large-amplitude breaking mountain wave and severe downslope winds. Nevertheless, the forecasts are very sensitive to the initial conditions because the difference in the downslope wind speeds predicted by the strong- and weak-member composites grows to larger than 28 m s 21 over the 6-h forecast. The structure of the synoptic-scale flow one hour prior to the windstorm and during the windstorm is very similar in both the weak- and strong-member composites. Wave breaking is not a significant factor in the second case, in which the strong winds are generated by a layer of high static stability flowing beneath a layer of weaker mid- and upper-tropospheric stability. In this case,thesensitivitytoinitialconditionsisweakerbutstillsignificant.Thedifferenceindownslopewindspeeds between the weak- and strong-member composites grows to 22 m s 21 over 12 h. During and one hour before the windstorm, the synoptic-scale flow exhibits appreciable differences between the strong- and weakmember composites. Although this case appears to be more predictable than the wave-breaking event, neither case suggests that much confidence should be placed in the intensity of downslope winds forecast 12 or more hours in advance.
Pre-industrial particulate emissions and carbon sequestration from biomass burning in North America

Spatial trends in pre-industrial biomass burning emissions for eastern North America were reconstructed from sediment charcoal data. Petrographic thin sections were prepared from varved lake sediments along a transect of sites extending from NW Minnesota eastward to NE Maine. Results showed an exponential decline in charcoal abundance with distance east from the prairie/forest border. This result quantifies burning along the broad climate/vegetation gradient from xeric woodland to mesic eastern deciduous forest. Post-settlement charcoal accumulation showed no such geographic pattern, varying from site-to-site, likely reflecting local variability in land use and combustion sources. Results suggest the total emissions of large (> 10 μm diameter) charcoal particles decreased by a factor of three during the twentieth century.
Florid reactive periostitis and bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation: pre-biopsy imaging evolution, treatment and outcome.

Objective. To report on the imaging evolution of florid reactive periostitis (FRP) and bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation (BPOP) of the phalanges of the hands from prospective diagnosis to operation and on postsurgical outcome. Design and patients. Three patients (2 female, 1 male; age range 11–34 years) presented with a swollen digit of the hand. Following presumptive radiographic diagnosis of FRP, they were closely observed both clinically and radiographically until operation. All three patients had radiographs of the involved digit, and one patient had an MR imaging examination. The interval between presumptive diagnosis and operation ranged from 2 to 8 months. Following operation, the patients have been clinically followed for 9–13 months (mean 10 months). Results. In each of the patients, maturing of periosteal reaction without bone destruction was observed within 1–2 weeks of the presumptive diagnosis of FRP. Periosteal reaction was initially minimal in relation to the extent of soft tissue swelling and subsequently became more florid. In one patient, the lesion ossified, became adherent to the phalanx, and had an ”osteochondromatous” appearance. In another patient, periosteal reaction was seen on both sides of the phalanx with an intact phalanx. In the sole patient who had MR imaging, edema was seen in the phalanx distal to the symptomatic site and the metacarpal proximal to the symptomatic site. Conclusions. Close clinical and radiographic correlation permits an accurate pre-biopsy diagnosis of FRP. The first follow-up radiograph taken within 2 weeks usually provides reassurance of the accuracy of the diagnosis. FRP may progress to BPOP. Arbitrary antibiotic treatment can be avoided, and a planned surgical approach can be adopted.
Composition and reconstruction of the GaP{100}-(4 × 2) surface

Abstract The composition and reconstruction of the GaP{100}-(4 × 2) surface has been studied by time-of-flight scattering and recoiling spectrometry (TOF-SARS) and low energy electron diffraction (LEED). Time-of-flight spectra of scattered and recoiled neutrals plus ions were collected as a function of crystal azimuthal rotation angle δ and primary beam incident (polar) angle α. Compositional analysis of the surface was obtained from 4 keV Ne + scattering and recoiling spectra. Structural analysis was obtained from the azimuthal anisotropy of the δ-scans and the features of the α-scans using both 4 keV Ne + and Kr + for scattering and recoiling. The azimuthal δ-scans were simulated by means of a shadow cone focusing model and a classical ion trajectory model. The totality of this data shows that the (4 × 2) reconstruction of GaP is a Ga missing-row-trimer P dimer (MRTD) structure in which every fourth Ga〈011〉 row is missing, the Ga atoms are trimerized along the 〈011〉 azimuth, and the 2nd-layer P atoms exposed in the 〈011〉 troughs are dimerized. This MRTD model is consistent with all of the data, is autocompensated, and has Ga intratrimer spacings of 3.2 ± 0.2 A and P intradimer spacings of 2.7 ± 0.2 A . The results of the simulations suggest that the two end Ga atoms of the trimers are relaxed downward by a minimum of 0.2 A. A missing-row-dimer (MRD) model, similar to that proposed for the GaAs (4 × 2) structure, in which every fourth Ga 〈011〉 row is missing and Ga dimers form along 〈011〉, was also considered. This MRD model is inconsistent with large portions of the experimental data and the simulations. The results are discussed in terms of the differences in the chemical bonds of phosphorus and arsenic.
Non-stationary effects in trace-driven power analysis

The objective of this paper is to present an analytic technique for power analysis under non-stationary conditions. We use the transitive closure calculation to identify the transient component in the behavior of the target machine and then, based on the fundamental matrix and a symbolic approach (or support from simulation), we find the actual power distribution that corresponds to the transient regime. The present technique complements the current techniques (either for average or peak power estimation) to handle the case when transient effects exist and cannot be ignored.
TU-C-BRE-04: 3D Gel Dosimetry Using ViewRay On-Board MR Scanner: A Feasibility Study

Purpose: MR based 3D gel has been proposed for radiation therapy dosimetry. However, access to MR scanner has been one of the limiting factors for its wide acceptance. Recent commercialization of an on-board MR-IGRT device (ViewRay) may render the availability issue less of a concern. This work reports our attempts to simulate MR based dose measurement accuracy on ViewRay using three different gels. Methods: A spherical BANG gel dosimeter was purchased from MGS Research. Cylindrical MAGIC gel and Fricke gel were fabricated in-house according to published recipes. After irradiation, BANG and MAGIC were imaged using a dual-echo spin echo sequence for T2 measurement on a Philips 1.5T MR scanner, while Fricke gel was imaged using multiple spin echo sequences. Difference between MR measured and TPS calculated dose was defined as noise. The noise power spectrum was calculated and then simulated for the 0.35 T magnetic field associated with ViewRay. The estimated noise was then added to TG-119 test cases to simulate measured dose distributions. Simulated measurements were evaluated against TPS calculated doses using gamma analysis. Results: Given same gel, sequence and coil setup, with a FOV of 180×90×90 mm3, resolution of 3×3×3 mm3, and scanning time of 30 minutes, themore » simulated measured dose distribution using BANG would have a gamma passing rate greater than 90% (3%/3mm and absolute). With a FOV 180×90×90 mm3, resolution of 4×4×5 mm3, and scanning time of 45 minutes, the simulated measuremened dose distribution would have a gamma passing rate greater than 97%. MAGIC exhibited similar performance while Fricke gel was inferior due to much higher noise. Conclusions: The simulation results demonstrated that it may be feasible to use MAGIC and BANG gels for 3D dose verification using ViewRay low-field on-board MRI scanner.« less
s- and p-wave neutron spectroscopy Xf(i). Intermediate structure in the 28Si + n reaction: R-matrix interpretation of experimental data☆

A multilevel R-matrix analysis of Si neutron cross-section data measured at NBS has been performed up to about 4.5 MeV neutron energy. Only a small fraction of the p- and s-wave s.p. strength is observed, but both exhibit local concentrations of strength indicative of doorway structure around 1 and 0.2 MeV, respectively. Besides the well-known 180 keV, strong, 1/2/sup +/ resonance, the s-wave resonance structure is of moderate strength and widely distributed. The f- and d-wave assignments are not unambiguous, but J>3/2 resonances show strong signs of intermediate structure for d waves. A possible correlation between neutron and gamma decay channels and the connection between the states observed in (n,n), (d,p), (n,..gamma..), and (..gamma..,n) channels is discussed. A core--particle doorway interpretation for s and p waves is presented.
EEG correlates of finger movements with different inertial load conditions as revealed by averaging techniques.

Abstract Objective : The present study was aimed to further address the general empirical question regarding the sensitivity of EEG correlates toward specific kinematic and/or kinetic movement parameters. In particular, we examined whether adding different inertial loads to the index finger, while a subject produced various amplitudes of discrete finger movements, influenced the movement-related potentials (MRP). Methods : Our experimental design systematically controlled the angular displacement, velocity and acceleration (kinematic) profiles of finger movement while torque (kinetics) was varied by adding different external loads opposing finger flexion movement. We applied time-domain averaging of EEG single trials in order to extract three movement-related potentials (BP −600 to −500 BP −100 to 0 and N 0 to 100 ) preceding and accompanying 25, 50 and 75° unilateral finger movements with no inertial load, small (100 g) and large (200 g) loading. Results : It was shown that both inertial load and the degree of angular displacement of index finger flexion increased the amplitude of late components of MRP (BP −100 to 0 and N 0 to 100 ) over frontal and precentral areas. In contrast, the external load and movement amplitude manipulations did not influence the earlier component of the MRP (BP −600 to −500 ). Conclusions : Overall, the data demonstrate that adding inertial load to the finger with larger angular displacements involves systematic increase in activation across frontal and precentral areas that are related to movement initiation as reflected in BP −100 to 0 and N 0 to 100.
Conjugate lateral eye movement and latency of verbal response to arithmetic questions.

St~mmary.-24 left movers, 24 right movers and 24 mixed movers, categorized on the basis of their conjugate lateral eye movements, were measured on latency of verbal response to arithmetic questions. The predicted superioricy of right movers in speed of response did not occur nor did interference with habitual direction of conjugate lateral eye movement affect results. However, the mixed group took longer to respond to a second series of questions than did the left and right movers. This post hoc finding may indicate inefficient hemispheric competition within the mixed group when subjects are asked to add another task to thac of arithmetic problem-solving. The direction of the initial lateral movement of the eyes by subjects after they have been presented with a question requiring reflection, has been relatively consistent within certain individuals so that they may be classified as left movers or right movers (Day, 1964; Duke, 1968). This phenomenon, called conjugate lateral eye movement, has been interpreted by Day (1964) as an indication that the subject is going from a passive, listening stance toward the question to an active, internal search for an answer. Bakan ( 1969) has linked the direction of conjugate lateral eye movement with activity in the contralateral cerebral hemisphere and has suggested that the measure may signal an easier triggering of that hemisphere by the subject. In Bakan's hypothesis, right movers favor the left hemisphere and its localized activities; left movers favor the right hemisphere and its localized activities. One of the activities associated with the left hemisphere in studies of cerebral dominance and localization of function has been mathematical calculation (Benton, 1965 ). In a 1962 study, for example, Teuber reported that 91 out of 105 patients with left-hemisphere lesions showed a loss in the ability to perform arithmetical sums while only 25 out of 124 patients with right-hemispheric lesions gave evidence of such deficit. The purpose of this study was to investigate the latency of verbal response to arithmetic questions by groups who differed in their habitual direction of conjugate lateral eye movement. In keeping with Bakan's hypothesis, it was predicted thac right movers would perform the cask significantly faster than left movers. The effect of interfering with the habitual direction of conjugate lateral eye movement in subjects was also investigated. It was predicted that both left movers and right movers would show significantly different response latencies when they were required to move their eyes in the direction opposite to that of their habitual conjugate lateral eye movement. The mixed group was included for exploratory study.
Anomalous f -electron Hall effect in the heavy-fermion system Ce T In 5 ( T = Co , Ir , or Rh )

The in-plane Hall coefficient ${R}_{H}(T)$ of ${\mathrm{CeRhIn}}_{5}$, ${\mathrm{CeIrIn}}_{5}$, and ${\mathrm{CeCoIn}}_{5}$, and their respective nonmagnetic lanthanum analogs are reported in fields up to $90\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{kOe}$ and at temperatures from $2--325\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$. ${R}_{H}(T)$ is negative, field independent, and dominated by skew scattering above $\ensuremath{\sim}50\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$ in the $\mathrm{Ce}$ compounds. ${R}_{H}(H\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0)$ becomes increasingly negative below $50\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$ and varies with temperature in a manner that is inconsistent with skew scattering. Field-dependent measurements show that the low-$T$ anomaly is strongly suppressed when the applied field is increased to $90\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{kOe}$. Measurements on ${\mathrm{LaRhIn}}_{5}$, ${\mathrm{LaIrIn}}_{5}$, and ${\mathrm{LaCoIn}}_{5}$ indicate that the same anomalous temperature dependence is present in the Hall coefficient of these nonmagnetic analogs, albeit with a reduced amplitude and no field dependence. Hall angle (${\ensuremath{\theta}}_{H}$) measurements find that the ratio ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{xx}∕{\ensuremath{\rho}}_{xy}=\mathrm{cot}({\ensuremath{\theta}}_{H})$ varies as ${T}^{2}$ below $20\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\mathrm{K}$ for all three $\mathrm{Ce}\text{\ensuremath{-}}115$ compounds. The Hall angles of the $\mathrm{La}\text{\ensuremath{-}}115$ compounds follow this $T$ dependence as well. These data suggest that the electronic-structure contribution dominates the Hall effect in the 115 compounds, with $f$ electron and Kondo interactions acting to magnify the influence of the underlying complex band structure. This is in stark contrast to the situation in most $4f$ and $5f$ heavy-fermion compounds where the normal carrier contribution to the Hall effect provides only a small, $T$-independent background to ${R}_{H}$.
Erratum to “Roles of phospholipases A2 in brain cell and tissue injury associated with ischemia and excitotoxicity” [J. Lip. Med. Cell Signal. 14 (1996) 15]☆☆☆

Abstract Phospholipase A 2 (PLA 2 ) activity is an important contributor to destructive cellular processes in the central nervous system. Two cytosolic forms of calcium dependent PLA 2 have been characterized in the gerbil brain and the neuronal cultures from rat brain. PLA 2 enzymatic activity in cell free extracts from cortical neuronal cultures is upregulated after cells are exposed to glutamate. Brief exposure to a calcium ionophore or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) stably enhanced PLA 2 activity. Stable activation of the two cytosolic forms of PLA 2 occur prior to evidence of cell death and this activation is reversible. The larger molecular mass form was characterized as cPLA 2 . The smaller form (∼ 14 kDa) was distinct from Group I and II PLA 2 . Exposure to glutamate shifted the calcium activation curve of the smaller form to the left suggesting a novel mechanism of regulation of PLA 2 . Glutamate-induced stable enhancement of PLA 2 activity, by processes involving calcium and protein kinase C activation, is a potential molecular switch likely mediating changes in synaptic function and contributing to excitotoxicity.
How Credible Is the Evidence, and Does It Matter? An Analysis of the Program Assessment Rating Tool

This research empirically assesses the quality of evidence that agencies provided to the Office of Management and Budget in the application of the Program Assessment Rating Tool (PART), introduced in 2002 to more rigorously, systematically, and transparently assess public program effectiveness and hold agencies accountable for results by tying them to the executive budget formulation process and program funding. Evidence submitted by 95 programs administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the PART assessment is analyzed using measures that capture the quality of evidence and methods used by programs and information on characteristics of agencies that might relate to program results and government funding decisions. The study finds that of those programs offering some evidence, most was internal and qualitative, and about half did not assess how their performance compared to other government or private programs with similar objectives. Programs were least likely to provide externally generated evidence of their performance relative to long-term and annual performance goals. Importantly, overall PART and results scores were (statistically) significantly lower for programs that failed to provide quantitative evidence and did not use long-term measures, baseline measures or targets, or independent evaluations. Although the PART program results ratings and overall PART scores had no discernible consequences for program funding over time, the PART assessments appeared to take seriously the evaluation of evidence quality, a positive step forward in recent efforts to base policy decisions on more rigorous evidence.
The role of loss in the experience of grief: The case of job loss.

Grief has mainly been studied in the context of bereavement. This research has long suggested that loss-related disruption may be contingent upon the extent that loss has impacted individuals' sense of self. This article examines the association of loss of another important identity marker, one's employment, and the experience of grief symptoms. Results support the discriminant validity of grief from depression and anxiety symptoms, the role of the self in moderating the effect of job loss on the experience of grief, and the role of avoidance as a potential link between the self and grief symptoms.
A rapid destructive effect of the Schmidt-Ruppin strain of Rous sarcoma virus on transformed rat cell lines.

A cytopathic effect was induced by the Schmidt-Ruppin strain of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV-SR) in five of nine rat tumor cell lines tested in vitro. The cells showed irreversible cytopathic change as early as 24-48 h after infection. Of the leukemogenic and tumorigenic viral agents tested, only RSV-SR induced the rapid Rous cytopathic effect. Virus was recovered 8 days after inoculation of the tumor cell lines XC and M41. The effect was neutralized by specific anti-RSV-SR antiserum. Correlation between oncogenicity of the rat tumor lines in the syngeneic host and their susceptibility to RSV-SR was incomplete.
Renin, aldosterone and cardiac decompensation: studies with an oral converting enzyme inhibitor in heart failure.

Abstract Congestive heart failure is frequently associated with stimulation of the renin-angiotensin system; the resulting increase in peripheral resistance and secondary aldosteronism, in turn, adds to the cardiac load and thus helps perpetuate decompensation. An oral converting enzyme inhibitor (captopril) was therefore tried in six normotensive patients with heart failure resistant to digitalis, diuretic agents and vasodilator therapy. After an oral dose of 25 to 50 mg, cardiac output and stroke volume increased ( P P r = 0.94; P r = 0.87; P r = 0.21 and −0.41, respectively; P > 0.10 for both). Continued follow-up study for 1 month showed a gradual improvement manifested by an increased effort tolerance and a reduction in body weight from 71.9 ± 8.4 kg (mean ± standard error of the mean) to 68.5 ± 9.0 kg ( P P r = −0.971; P
WE-G-BRD-05: Is “New Radiobiology” Needed to Account for the Anti-Tumor Efficacy of Hypofractionated Lung SBRT?

Purpose: The radiobiological understanding of SBRT is controversial. In this work, we modeled SBRT outcomes based on a previously published tumor control probability model, that incorporates hypoxia, proliferation and cell-cycle effects, in order to understand if non-traditional factors must be invoked to understand the efficacy of single and multiple fraction SBRT. Methods: We extracted cohorts from Mehta et al. (PRO (2012) 2:288) with easily identifiable fractionation parameters and commensurate outcome and prescription methods (n=2617). Each RT scheme was simulated in the model, and the surviving fraction (SF) of tumor cells was estimated. Another simulation was then carried out with conventional (2Gy/fx, 5fx/wk) fractionation until the same SF was achieved, resulting in model-derived equivalent dose in 2Gy/fx for α/β=10 (EQD210(model)). In the scatter plot of the outcome vs. EQD210(model), logistic regressions were performed for the total group or separate groups (conventional RT, SBRT with 3×10 fxs, and single fx SBRT), assuming the slope of the dose response curve (γ50) of 1.5. Chi-squared tests were performed to test the validity of the fit. Results: With unfavorable hypoxic and cell-cycle effects, the effectiveness of typical SBRT regimes were predicted by the model to be significantly less effective than comparable standard fractionation regimes. The single-fraction TD50 was only 55% of the conventional fractionation TD50, in units of EQD210(model). The dose response curves for the separate fractionation groups seems to represent the three different groups, with a high p-value for both SBRT groups. For the lower α/β of 3, the same patterns were observed with smaller differences among the groups. Conclusion: Based on classical radiobiology, the dose response relation of SBRT was evaluated and compared with conventional RT. Observed SBRT outcomes are inconsistent with classical radiobiology principles, suggesting the possible other effects, which increases as the fractional dose increases.
High-Performance Simulation of Low-Resolution Network Flows

Simulation of large-scale networks demands that we model some flows at coarser time scales than others, simply to keep the execution cost manageable. This article studies a method for periodically computing traffic at a time scale larger than that typically used for detailed packet simulations. Applications of this technique include computation of background flows (against which detailed foreground flows are simulated) and simulation of worm propagation in the Internet. The approach considers aggregated traffic between Internet points of presence (POPs) and computes the throughput of each POP-to-POP flow through each router on its path. This problem formulation leads to a nonlinear system of equations. The authors develop means of reducing this system to a smaller set of equations, which are solved using fixed-point iteration. They study the convergence behavior, as a function of traffic load, on topologies based on Internet backbone networks. They find that the problem reduction method is very effective and that convergence is achieved rapidly. The authors also examine the comparative speedup of the method relative to using pure packet simulation for background flows and observe speedups exceeding 3000 using an ordinary PC. They also simulate foreground flows interacting with background flows and compare the foreground behavior using their solution with that of pure packet flows. They find that these flows behave accurately enough in their approach to justify use of the technique in their motivating application. The authors parallelize the algorithm on a distributed-memory multiprocessor. They exploit the flexibility offered by noncommittal barrier synchronization that permits a processor to handle computation messages even after it invokes a barrier primitive. They also take advantage of application-specific knowledge to minimize synchronization cost, study the performance of their parallel algorithm with both fixed and scaled problem sizes, and observe excellent scalability on a multiprocessor supercomputer.
Familial selection and the evolution of social behavior

This paper considers a few frequency models, in the deterministic, nonoverlapping generations case, for traits affecting familial behavior. It is assumed that a Mendelian mutant decreases the drive of offspring of either or both sexes to seek reproduction, so that they will be of more help in raising their sibs. The diploid mode of inheritance has been considered in the case of sex limited expression and equal selective effect in both sexes. In the haplodiploid case only expression limited to either sex is worked out. A selectionist interpretation in terms of different modes of inheritance had been proposed mainly by Hamilton, at a semi-quantitative level, to explain the higher incidence of social behavior in hymenopterans. There is only some limited qualitative agreement between Hamilton’s tentative results and the more orthodox treatment presented in this paper. Thus an “inclusive fitness” of genes can be defined, but only in a very special approximate case. However exactly the opposite conclusions as Hamilton’s are reached by interpreting our models both from Hamilton’s and from other, more plausible, points of view. Alternative explanations based on biological preconditions rather than the mode of inheritance are proposed for hymenopteran societies. On the other hand the reasoning in this paper might help to explain systematic differences in social behavior between mammals and birds, especially if they were determined by sex linked characters (points on which no information is available).
Tetra-arylborates as NMR shift-reagents.

The efficiency of substituted tetraphenylborates as reagents for inducing shifts in NMR spectra has been examined.
Studies of the europium-oxygen-fluorine and samarium-oxygen-fluorine systems☆

Abstract A portion of the ternary system EuEu 2 O 3 EuF 3 has been investigated by equilibrating EuOEuF 3 and EuOEuF 2 mixtures at 1500°C and examining the products with a polarizing microscope and by X-ray diffraction. The composition at the liquid-solid boundary was not measured directly, but has been estimated. A phase diagram is presented for that part of the system studied. No ternary compounds are formed with europium in an oxidation state lower than +3 in samples cooled from 1500°C. Several compositions of the Eu 2 O 3 Euf 3 and Sm 2 O 3 SmF 3 binary systems were examined using differential thermal analysis and X-ray powder diffraction. In these systems, at least one intermediate phase (and probably two or more) in addition to LnOF is stable. These additional phases all lie on the fluoride side of LnOF. At temperatures above 600°C, solid solutions extend from approximately LnO 0.8 F 1.4 to LnO 0.6 F 1.8 .
THE INTERSTELLAR GAS PHASE PRODUCTION OF HIGHLY COMPLEX HYDROCARBONS : CONSTRUCTION OF A MODEL

Abstract Our current gas phase models of the chemistry of interstellar clouds have been extended to produce molecules as complex as fullerenes. Interstellar fullerenes are formed via an ion/molecule synthesis in which linear carbon chains grow until they spontaneously convert into monocyclic rings, which then undergo condensation reactions to form tricyclic rings. The tricyclic rings are converted to fullerenes by collisional processes which generate sufficient amounts of internal energy to overcome activation energy barriers. To determine the products of individual reactions and photoprocesses, a simplified statistical theory has been invoked.
Approach to standardizing MR image intensity scale

Despite the many advantages of MR images, they lack a standard image intensity scale. MR image intensity ranges and the meaning of intensity values vary even for the same protocol (P) and the same body region (D). This causes many difficulties in image display and analysis. We propose a two-step method for standardizing the intensity scale in such a way that for the same P and D, similar intensities will have similar meanings. In the first step, the parameters of the standardizing transformation are 'learned' from an image set. In the second step, for each MR study, these parameters are used to map their histogram into the standardized histogram. The method was tested quantitatively on 90 whole brain FSE T2, PD and T1 studies of MS patients and qualitatively on several other SE PD, T2 and SPGR studies of the grain and foot. Measurements using mean squared difference showed that the standardized image intensities have statistically significantly more consistent range and meaning than the originals. Fixed windows can be established for standardized imags and used for display without the need of per case adjustment. Preliminary results also indicate that the method facilitates improving the degree of automation of image segmentation.
Scleroderma Renal Crisis With Minimal Skin Involvement and No Serologic Evidence of Systemic Sclerosis

We describe a 75-year-old male patient who developed end-stage renal failure secondary to scleroderma renal crisis. The patient had cutaneous involvement limited to his fingers and feet, and had repeatedly negative serologic tests for antinuclear antibodies. This case illustrates that scleroderma renal crisis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained acute renal failure in patients with suspected systemic sclerosis, even if they lack the typical extensive cutaneous changes and the expected serologic findings.
P16-55 LB. The role of CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells in the control of IL-10 mediated T cell impairment in chronic HIV Infection.

Methods HIV-specific proliferative CD4+ T cell responses were assessed by CFSE assays performed after stimulation with recombinant HIV p24 in the presence of a blocking antiIL10R antibody or an isotype control, with or without depletion of CD25+ cells. IL-10 production was measured in cell subsets by ICS or by luminex of culture supernatants from PBMCs depleted of CD14+, CD19+ or CD25+ cells. Finally, monocytes and regulatory T cells were sorted and cultured alone or together in transwell plates and secreted IL-10 was measured.
Measurements and characterization of traffic in a university environment

In this paper we characterize the traffic seen in a university environment, especially on the broadband medium which serves as the backbone. The traffic is characterized based on parameters such as the volume of traffic generated, the packet inter-arrival times, the packet size and the protocol type and application that generated the traffic. We use the packet train model to analyze and characterize the traffic. Network traffic being inherently bursty, we propose a practical definition for burstiness and evaluate the burstiness of the traffic measured. Finally we compare the appropriateness and relative efficiency of some of the tools used to measure network traffic and compare their performance.
Archaeobotanical evidence for early agriculture at Ljubjansko barje (Ljubljana Moor), central Slovenia

Archaeobotanical evidence is presented for early agriculture at southwestern Ljubljansko barje (Ljubljana Moor), Slovenia. Archaeobotanical finds from the Eneolithic site at Hocevarica, and pollen records from an archaeological profile and from a nearby core were analysed. Numerous charred grains of cultivated cereals together with fossil seeds of Chenopodium sp. demonstrate that during the occupation of the settlement at Hocevarica, agriculture was well established. The majority of identified grains were of Hordeum vulgare (cultivated barley) and the rest were Triticum monococcum and T. turgidum ssp. dicoccum (cultivated wheats). Large amounts of cereal pollen and pollen of Chenopodiaceae also suggest strong human impact on the surrounding vegetation and landscape. Pollen and archaeobotanical data from Hocevarica show a large consistency in timing of the appearance of agriculture. In the pollen record from the core at Hocevarica a significant increase (up to 40%) in cereal pollen was detected at 4881 ± 50 B.P. (3770-3630 cal B.C.). Charred cereal grains were dated to 4800 ± 40 B.P. (3650-3520 cal B.C.). The grains of cultivated cereals from Hocevarica represent the oldest archaeobotanical evidence for agriculture in central Slovenia.
Impact of Internals on the Gas Holdup and Bubble Properties of a Bubble Column

Most industrial applications involving bubble columns require the addition of internals for heat exchanging. However, most academic research on bubble columns has been performed in hollow (empty) ones. Hence, the impact of internals on the hydrodynamics of a bubble column has been insufficiently studied in the open literature. Accordingly, this study focuses on investigating the effect of internals that mimic those used in methanol synthesis (5% covered cross-sectional area) and the Fischer−Tropsch (FT) process (22% covered cross-sectional area) on the local gas holdup, gas−liquid interfacial area, bubble chord length, and bubble velocity distributions. The investigations have been performed using a four point optical probe in an 8 in. diameter column. An air−water system was used with superficial gas velocities up to 20 cm/s. An increase in gas holdup and interfacial area was obtained upon insertion of the internals, although the impact of the less dense internals (5% covered area) was not significant. H...
Electroacoustics of Particles Dispersed in Polymer Gel

This study examines the acoustic electrophoresis of particles dispersed in polymer hydrogels, with the particle size either less than or greater than the gel mesh size. When the particles are smaller than the gel mesh size, their acoustic vibration is resisted by only the background water medium, and the measured dynamic electrophoretic mobility, μd (obtained in terms of colloid vibration current, CVI), is the same as in water. For the case of particles larger than the gel mesh size, μd is decreased due to trapping, and the net decrease depends on the viscoelastic properties of the gel. The gel mesh size was varied by varying its crosslink density, the latter being characterized as the storage modulus, G’. The dependence of mobility on G’, for systems of a given particle size, and on particle size, for gels of a given G’, are investigated. The measured mobility remains constant as G’ is increased (i.e., mesh size is decreased) up to a value of approximately 300 Pa, beyond which it decreases. In the second set of measurements, the trapped particle size was increased in a gel medium of constant mesh size, with G’ approximately 100 Pa. In this case, the measured μd ismore » found to be effectively constant over the particle size range studied (14-120 nm), i.e., it is independent of the degree of trapping as expressed by the ratio of the particle size to the mesh size.« less
Alternative Work Schedules and Work–Family Balance: A Research Note

For many years, employers have sought to improve employee productivity and work environments. One common strategy is alternative work arrangements, which include flextime, job sharing, telecommutin...
Chiral enrichment of serine via formation, dissociation, and soft-landing of octameric cluster ions.

Chiral enrichment of serine is achieved in experiments that involve formation of serine octamers starting from non-racemic serine solutions. Serine octamers were generated by means of electrospray and sonic spray ionization of aqueous solutions of d3-L-serine (108 Da) and D-serine (105 Da) having different molar ratios of enantiomers. A cyclic process involving the formation of chirally-enriched octameric cluster ions and their dissociation, viz. Ser1 → Ser8 → Ser1, allows serine monomers to be regenerated with increased enantiomeric excess as shown in two types of experiments: (1) Chiral enrichment in serine was observed in MS/MS/MS experiments in a quadrupole ion trap in which the entire distribution of serine octamers formed from non-racemic solutions was isolated, collisionally activated, and fragmented. Monomeric serine was regenerated with increased enantiomeric excess upon dissociation of octamers when compared with the enantiomeric composition of the original solution. (2) Chiral enrichment was observed in the products of soft-landing of mass-selected protonated serine octamers. These ions were generated by means of electrospray or sonic spray ionization, mass selected, and collected on a gold surface using ion soft-landing. Chiral enrichment of the soft-landed serine was established by redissolving the recovered material and comparing the intensities of protonated molecular ions of d3-L-serine and D-serine after APCI-MS analysis. Both of these experiments showed comparable results, suggesting that formation of serine octamers depends only on the enantiomeric composition of the serine solution and that the magnitude of the chiral preference is intrinsic to octamers formed from solutions of given chiral composition.
Persistence of viral DNA in human cell cultures infected with human papilloma virus

THE human papilloma (wart) virus produces a transmissible, benign neoplastic disease which is self-limiting and often regresses. Although rare, papillomas containing papovavirus-like particles may undergo malignant transformation. Papillomas in epidermodysplasia verruciformis and condyloma acuminatum can become neoplastic1–4. Reports of the wart virus replicating in or transforming cells in culture, however, have not been substantiated5–7. Butel was unable to demonstrate cytopathic effect, the production of viral antigens or virus replication using a variety of cell lines and culture techniques8. Mild stimulation of cellular DNA synthesis, however, was observed in contact-inhibited embryonic human kidney cells after infection8. We also have been able to induce cellular DNA synthesis in confluent monolayers of a cell line derived from foetal human foreskin (NHP cells) following infection by wart virus.
The Left Divided: Parties, Unions, and the Resolution of Southern Spain's Agrarian Social Question

This article challenges dominant explanations in the comparative political economy literature on the origins and purposes of social protection. Far from being a tool of working-class mobilization, social protection in southern Spain was strategically employed by a left party to politically demobilize its supposedly “natural” constituencies. This peculiar outcome is the result of a setting that is common in welfare states outside of northern Europe: the context of a divided left, in which parties and unions are seeking to mobilize different constituencies and in which left parties are themselves divided between moderate and far-left groups. The result in Spain was that social policy became a weapon in parties' efforts to undermine their political competition. This suggests the need to rethink the received wisdom about what the welfare state does to build working-class power in the context of a divided left.
Program development work in progress: Value stream mapping the educational process outcomes

This paper describes how the Manufacturing Engineering Technology (MNET) Program at South Dakota State University (SDSU) is using Lean Production techniques to map the educational outcomes across the curriculum. As a part of the accreditation review process, the MNET program has undertaken a project to determine whether the outcomes used in the program provide value to the constituents. A student research team has been assembled to value stream map the MNET program educational process. The needs of the customer, or educational outcomes that provide value, were determined through surveys and interviews with constituents of the program. A future state map will be developed and compared to a current state value stream map. Using the information gleaned from these maps, the curriculum can be critically evaluated and changed to better meet the needs of its constituents.
The aesthetic presence of truth: A response to Arnheim

Since the first publication of his book Art and Visual Perception in 1954, Rudolph Arnheim has been unflagging in his dedication to constructing a theory of art, one that acknowledges the central activity of the mind and sees in the striving for visual order and harmony the necessary conditions of understanding. In writings of uncommon literary grace and intellectual scholarship, Arnheim has proved to be a cosmopolitan traveller in the world of ideas. He has ploughed scholarly furrows across what he holds to be essential dichotomies of the age, between art and science, perception and conception, structure and chaos. He is committed to the view that acts of perception are, by nature, ordered and provide direct access to inner essences. The mandate for the arts is to offer structural equivalents to these hidden abstractions and in so doing act as external metaphors of the human condition. Like many artists, Arnheim believes in a kind of truth-in-perception that is direct, absolute, unique, and-when reflected in the arts-offers universal knowledge. Given the natural propensity of the mind for simplicity and order, it has sometimes been less clear in Arnheim’s writings whence comes the chaos and confusion he often evokes as foils to his arguments. Similarly, by harnessing imagination and invention to the search for order and simplicity, that is Truth, his writings sometimes curtail questions of personal imagery, interpretation, and the determinants of aesthetic judgment. In this essay, Arnheim returns to familiar themes by raising questions about the nature of the religious experience linked to the role of art as expression of “worshipful reverence.” He paints a compelling picture of “disturbed seekers” of religion caught between traditional confessions of faith and the chill facts of science, trapped by Avarroes ’ “double truth” and envious of an ordered universe long past. Arnheim offers us, as guide through this morass, the 17th century philosopher, Spinoza who, like Ruskin after him, believed in a seamless universe governed by scientific laws of which God is suprenle giver and authority. For Arnheim, God is apprehended directly throught what he calls the “intelligent attitude” which, when directed towards contemplation of the universe, experiences a vision of time and space of unfathomable greatness, of awe, of the oceanic feeling of Einstein and Freud’s friend. Within this view of cosmic necessity, the human will is free only when it acts out of the demands of it own nature. Desiring lawfulness and seeking truth, the will is unfree, or coerced,
Non-linear buckling of a column with initial imperfection via stochastic and non-stochastic convex models

Abstract Buckling of initial imperfection sensitive structure — column on a non-linear elastic foundation — is investigated. A criterion based on the concept of “modal buckling load” is proposed to determine which modes should be included in the analysis when the weighted residuals method is utilized to calculate the limit load — maximum load the structure can support — for a given initial deflection. For stochastic analysis, a random field model is suggested for the uncertain initial imperfection, and Monte Carlo simulations are performed to obtain the probability density of the buckling load and the reliability of the column. Finally, a non-stochastic convex model of uncertainty is employed to describe a situation when only limited information is available on uncertain initial deflection, and the minimum buckling load is obtained for this model. The results from both the stochastic and the non-stochastic approaches are derived and critically contrasted.
High Resolution Reversible Color Images on Photonic Crystal Substrates

When light is incident on a crystalline structure with appropriate periodicity, some colors will be preferentially reflected (Joannopoulos, J. D.; Meade, R. D.; Winn, J. N. Photonic crystals : molding the flow of light; Princeton University Press: Princeton, NJ, 1995; p ix, 137 pp). These photonic crystals and the structural color they generate represent an interesting method for creating reflective displays and drawing devices, since they can achieve a continuous color response and do not require back lighting (Joannopoulos, J. D.; Villeneuve, P. R.; Fan, S. H. Photonic crystals: Putting a new twist on light. Nature1997, 386, 143–149; Graham-Rowe, D. Tunable structural colour. Nat. Photonics2009, 3, 551–553.; Arsenault, A. C.; Puzzo, D. P.; Manners, I.; Ozin, G. A. Photonic-crystal full-colour displays. Nat. Photonics2007, 1, 468–472; Walish, J. J.; Kang, Y.; Mickiewicz, R. A.; Thomas, E. L. Bioinspired Electrochemically Tunable Block Copolymer Full Color Pixels. Adv. Mater.2009, 21, 3078). Here we demon...
Protein Dynamics Control the Progression and Efficiency of the Catalytic Reaction Cycle of the Escherichia coli DNA-Repair Enzyme AlkB *

A central goal of enzymology is to understand the physicochemical mechanisms that enable proteins to catalyze complex chemical reactions with high efficiency. Recent methodological advances enable the contribution of protein dynamics to enzyme efficiency to be explored more deeply. Here, we utilize enzymological and biophysical studies, including NMR measurements of conformational dynamics, to develop a quantitative mechanistic scheme for the DNA repair enzyme AlkB. Like other iron/2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases, AlkB employs a two-step mechanism in which oxidation of 2-oxoglutarate generates a highly reactive enzyme-bound oxyferryl intermediate that, in the case of AlkB, slowly hydroxylates an alkylated nucleobase. Our results demonstrate that a microsecond-to-millisecond time scale conformational transition facilitates the proper sequential order of substrate binding to AlkB. Mutations altering the dynamics of this transition allow generation of the oxyferryl intermediate but promote its premature quenching by solvent, which uncouples 2-oxoglutarate turnover from nucleobase oxidation. Therefore, efficient catalysis by AlkB depends upon the dynamics of a specific conformational transition, establishing another paradigm for the control of enzyme function by protein dynamics.
NPSOFF: An object description language for supporting virtual world construction

Abstract The development of interesting virtual world systems requires the modeling of many different, usually complex, graphical objects. How these objects are represented in the system plays a major part in determining the capabilities of the system. We present an efficient, flexible, and extensible object description language used in virtual world system development at the Naval Postgraduate School.