cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric factors governing banded orographic convection

Abstract The three-dimensional structure of shallow orographic convection is investigated through simulations performed with a cloud-resolving numerical model. In moist flows that overcome a given topographic barrier to form statically unstable cap clouds, the organization of the convection depends on both the atmospheric structure and the mechanism by which the convection is initiated. Convection initiated by background thermal fluctuations embedded in the flow over a smooth mountain (without any small-scale topographic features) tends to be cellular and disorganized except that shear-parallel bands may form in flows with strong unidirectional vertical shear. The development of well-organized bands is favored when there is weak static instability inside the cloud and when the dry air surrounding the cloud is strongly stable. These bands move with the flow and distribute their cumulative precipitation evenly over the mountain upslope. Similar shear-parallel bands also develop in flows where convection is ...
Kinetics and catalysis of the reaction of coal char and steam

Abstract The kinetics and catalysis of the reaction between steam and two different coal chars were investigated in a small fixed-bed reactor. Atmospheric pressure and temperatures between 600 and 850 °C were used. Various possible catalysts were tested, and the effect of catalyst concentration was examined. Of the catalysts used, potassium carbonate was the most effective. It was followed in order of decreasing effectiveness by sodium carbonate, lithium carbonate, potassium chloride, sodium chloride, and copper (II) oxide. Calcium oxide and iron (III) oxide were totally ineffective. The catalysts were more effective at higher concentration. Also, addition of 10% potassium carbonate to the coal char lowered the apparent activation energy of the reaction from 254.2 to 144.5 kJ/mol and the frequency factor from 2.41 × 108 to 1.32 × 104 s−1. The water-gas shift reaction reached equilibrium during gasification in the presence of alkali-metal carbonates and the product gas was primarily carbon dioxide and hydrogen. Without catalyst present, the water-gas shift reaction was far from equilibrium.
Right Aortic Sinus of Valsalva-to-Right Ventricle Fistula Complicating Bacterial Endocarditis of Membranous Ventricular Septal Defect: Evaluation by Two-Dimensional, Color Flow, and Doppler Echocardiography

Rupture of the aortic sinus of Valsalva into the right ventricle is a rare complication of bacterial endocarditis. The majority of previous cases have been reported in patients with aortic valve endocarditis. This report describes this complication in association with infective endocarditis of a congenital membranous ventricular septal defect. Color flow imaging showed a mosaic-colored continuous flow signal from the right aortic sinus to the right ventricle. Continuous wave Doppler interrogation showed high-velocity systolic and diastolic flow signals due to continuous left-to-right shunt from the aorta to the right ventricle. The left-to-right shunt through a restrictive membranous ventricle septal defect was visualized as a mosaic-colored high-velocity systolic flow signal. These echocardiographic-Doppler findings permitted surgical correction of these defects without cardiac catheterization.
The growth of nematode ‘tolerant’ and ‘intolerant’ soyabeans as affected by phosphorus, Glomus intraradices and light

The effects of the vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungus, Glomus intraradices, and the soyabean cyst nematode (SCN), Heterodera glycines, were studied singly and in combination on two soyabean cultivars, cv. Bragg (nematode intolerant) and cv. Wright (moderately nematode tolerant) grown in the greenhouse in soils with low (35 μg/g) and high (70 μg/g) phosphorus (P). Cultivar Wright grew better than cv. Bragg, showing a greater response to P and VAM, and was damaged less by SCN. These differences were not apparent, or were reversed, when the same cultivars were grown in growth chambers where lighting was sub-optimal. Cultivar Wright had a larger shoot : root ratio than cv. Bragg. This finding and the observed growth responses indicate that cv. Wright has a more efficient root system than cv. Bragg. This, we suggest, is the basis of both the greater VAM response observed in, and the greater nematode tolerance ascribed to, cv. Wright compared to cv. Bragg.
Closure to “Mechanical interaction between concrete and FRP sheet” by Hwai‐Chung Wu

A discussion of an article with the aforementioned title by Hwai-Chung Wu, published in this journal (May 2000, Vol. 4, No. 2) is presented. The original article presents a theoretical model for the behavior of fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) wrapped concrete columns. The discusser proposes a method of estimating the confinement ratio as a function of the elastic material properties of the concrete and the FRP. Discussion is followed by closure from the author.
Superconductive hot-electron mixers for terahertz heterodyne receiver applications

We report on the development of quasioptical Nb hot-electron bolometer mixers for heterodyne receivers operating at 1 THz 3 THz. The devices have submicron in-plane sizes, thus exploiting diffusion as the electron cooling mechanism. Quasioptical mixer circuits have been developed with planar double-dipole or twin-slot antennas. The measured (DSB) receiver noise temperatures are 1670 K at 1.1 THz, with an estimated mixer noise temperature of approximately equals 1060 K, and 2750 K at 2.5 THz, with an estimated mixer noise temperature of approximately equals 900 K. The IF bandwidth is found to scale as the length-squared, and bandwidths as high as 8 GHz have been measured. These results demonstrate the low-noise, broadband operation of the diffusion-cooled bolometer mixer over a wide range of far-infrared wavelengths.
Electrochemical and Spectroscopic Studies of Some Less Stable Oxidation States of Selected Lanthanide and Actinide Elements

Simultaneous observation of electrochemical and spectroscopic properties (spectroelectrochemistry) at optically transparent electrodes (OTE's) was used to study some less stable oxidation states of selected lanthanide and actinide elements. Cyclic voltammetry at microelectrodes was used in conjunction with spectroelectrochemistry for the study of redox couples. Additional analytical techniques were used. The formal reduction potential (E/sup 0/') values of the M(III)/M(II) redox couples in 1 M KCl at pH 6 were -0.34 +- 0.01 V for Eu, -1.18 +- 0.01 V for Yb, and -1.50 +- 0.01 V for Sm. Spectropotentiostatic determination of E/sup 0/' for the Eu(III)/Eu(II) redox couple yielded a value of -0.391 +- 0.005 V. Spectropotentiostatic measurement of the Ce(IV)/Ce(III) redox couple in concentrated carbonate solution gave E/sup 0/' equal to 0.051 +- 0.005 V, which is about 1.7 V less positive than the E/sup 0/' value in noncomplexing solution. This same difference in potential was observed for the E/sup 0/' values of the Pr(IV)/Pr(III) and Tb(IV)/Tb(III) redox couples in carbonate solution, and thus Pr(IV) and Tb(IV) were stabilized in this medium. The U(VI)/U(V)/U(IV) and U(IV)/U(III) redox couples were studied in 1 M KCl at OTE's. Spectropotentiostatic measurement of the Np(VI)/Np(V) redox couple in 1 M HClO/sub 4/ gavemore » an E/sup 0/' value of 1.140 +- 0.005 V. An E/sup 0/' value of 0.46 +- 0.01 V for the Np(VII)/Np(VI) couple was found by voltammetry. Oxidation of Am(III) was studied in concentrated carbonate solution, and a reversible cyclic voltammogram for the Am(IV)/Am(III) couple yielded E/sup 0/' = 0.92 +- 0.01 V in this medium; this value was used to estimate the standard reduction potential (E/sup 0/) of the couple as 2.62 +- 0.01 V. Attempts to oxidize Cm(III) in concentrated carbonate solution were not successful which suggests that the predicted E/sup 0/ value for the Cm(IV)/Cm(III) redox couple may be in error.« less
World oil prices and O.E.C.D. trade balance

This paper develops a theoretical model which postulates that while the drop in oil prices during the 1980s has benefitted O.E.C.D. countries in a way not unlike a favorable productivity shock, the concomitant shift in oil market share from Arab or cartel core petroleum exporting countries to non-Arab or non-cartel core petroleum exporting countries, has provided less benefits to the O.E.C.D. countries than has hitherto been acknowledged. The econometric analysis lends support to the model.
Oxidation of Extramitochondrial Diphosphopyridine Nucleotide by Various Tissues of the Mouse

Exogenous reduced diphosphopyridine nucleotide was not oxidized by mitochondria but by cytoplasmic hydrogen-accepting systems catalyzed by lactic, α-glycerophosphate, and malic dehydrogenases. The three enzymes were found in all tissues of the mouse; the amount of activity of each enzyme differed in the various tissues, however. It is suggested that each tissue has a unique pattern for oxidation of extramitochondrial diphosphopyridine nucleotide.
Lumican deficiency results in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy with altered collagen assembly.

Abstract The ability of the heart to adapt to increased stress is dependent on the modification of its extracellular matrix (ECM) architecture that is established during postnatal development as cardiomyocytes differentiate, a process that is poorly understood. We hypothesized that the small leucine-rich proteoglycan (SLRP) lumican (LUM), which binds collagen and facilitates collagen assembly in other tissues, may play a critical role in establishing the postnatal murine myocardial ECM. Although previous studies suggest that LUM deficient mice ( lum −/− ) exhibit skin anomalies consistent with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, lum −/− hearts have not been evaluated. These studies show that LUM was immunolocalized to non-cardiomyocytes of the cardiac ventricles and its expression increased throughout development. Lumican deficiency resulted in significant (50%) perinatal death and further examination of the lum −/− neonatal hearts revealed an increase in myocardial tissue without a significant increase in cell proliferation. However cardiomyocytes from surviving postnatal day 0 (P0), 1 month (1 mo) and adult (4 mo) lum −/− hearts were significantly larger than their wild type (WT) littermates. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the increased cardiomyocyte size in the lum −/− hearts correlated with alteration of the cardiomyocyte pericellular ECM components collagenα1(I) and the class I SLRP decorin (DCN). Western blot analysis demonstrated that the ratio of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) decorated DCN to core DCN was reduced in P0 and 1 mo lum −/− hearts. There was also a reduction in the β and γ forms of collagenα1(I) in lum −/− hearts. While the total insoluble collagen content was significantly reduced, the fibril size was increased in lum −/− hearts, indicating that LUM may play a role in collagen fiber stability and lateral fibril assembly. These results suggest that LUM controls cardiomyocyte growth by regulating the pericellular ECM and also indicates that LUM may coordinate multiple factors of collagen assembly in the murine heart. Further investigation into the role of LUM may yield novel therapeutic targets and/or biomarkers for patients with cardiovascular disease.
Uncoupled oscillator model for interpreting second harmonic generation measurements of oriented chiral systems

Molecular modeling calculations of the electronically resonant nonlinear optical susceptibility of the archetypal chiral molecule binaphthol are shown to be qualitatively reproduced by considering two uncoupled naphthol molecules oriented in a manner similar to that in binaphthol. This remarkably simple uncoupled oscillator model reliably predicts the signs and relative magnitudes of the key elements within the molecular susceptibility tensor of binaphthol. These results suggest that surprisingly simple and intuitive physical models can often be constructed for qualitatively interpreting chiral-specific phenomena in nonlinear optical investigations of oriented chiral chromophores in thin films and at surfaces.
The Association of Obesity and School Absenteeism Attributed to Illness or Injury Among Adolescents in the United States, 2009

Purpose School attendance can impact academic performance. Childhood obesity-related physical and psychosocial consequences are potentially associated with school absenteeism. Thus, we examined the association between school absenteeism attributed to illness or injury and obesity among adolescents aged 12–17 years.
The tumour suppressor CHD5 forms a NuRD-type chromatin remodelling complex.

Eukaryotic gene expression is developmentally regulated, in part by chromatin remodelling, and its dysregulation has been linked to cancer. CHD5 (chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 5) is a tumour suppressor gene (TSG) that maps to a region of consistent deletion on 1p36.31 in neuroblastomas (NBs) and other tumour types. CHD5 encodes a protein with chromatin remodelling, helicase and DNA-binding motifs that is preferentially expressed in neural and testicular tissues. CHD5 is highly homologous to CHD3 and CHD4, which are the core subunits of nucleosome remodelling and deacetylation (NuRD) complexes. To determine if CHD5 forms a similar complex, we performed studies on nuclear extracts from NBLS, SY5Y (both with endogenous CHD5 expression), NLF (CHD5 null) and NLF cells stably transfected with CHD5 cDNA (wild-type and V5–histidine-tagged). Immunoprecipitation (IP) was performed with either CHD5 antibody or antibody to V5/histidine-tagged protein. We identified NuRD components both by GST–FOG1 (Friend Of GATA1) pull-down and by IP. We also performed MS/MS analysis to confirm the presence of CHD5 or other protein components of the NuRD complex, as well as to identify other novel proteins. CHD5 was clearly associated with all canonical NuRD components, including metastasis-associated protein (MTA)1/2, GATA zinc finger domain containing 2A (GATAD2A), histone deacetylase (HDAC)1/2, retinoblastoma-binding protein (RBBP)4/7 and methyl DNA-binding domain protein (MBD)2/3, as determined by Western blotting and MS/MS. Our data suggest CHD5 forms a NuRD complex similar to CHD4. However, CHD5–NuRD may also have unique protein associations that confer functional specificity and may contribute to normal development and to tumour suppression in NB and other cancers.
Persistent asthma: patient characteristics, courses of asthma, and utility of salmeterol.

Applications of National Asthma and Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines for the diagnosis and management of asthma may reduce the morbidity of this disorder. Medical records and questionnaires from a series of 177 outer-city adolescents and adults with persistent asthma were audited according to NAEPP guidelines and for utility of salmeterol (Serevent®). Allergic sensitivity and exposure to indoor allergens house-dust mite (66% of patients), fungi (42%), cat (20%) and/or dog (14%) were of dominant importance to persistent asthma. Patients who continued salmeterol over 1 year had reduced severity of disease, improved forced expiratory flow at 25%-75% of vital capacity, and reduced usage of systemic, but not inhaled, corticosteroid.
Contact metamorphism of impure dolomitic limestone in the Boulder Aureole, Montana

Progressive metamorphism of impure dolomitic limestone in the 1.5 to 2.5 km wide contact aureole surrounding the northernmost portion of the boulder batholith has resulted in a consistent sequence of uniformly distributed zones of low-variance mineral parageneses separated by abrupt and distinctive isograds. In silica-undersaturated, aluminous marbles, the following mineral assemblages occur, in order of increasing grade: calcite-dolomite-calcic amphibole-chlorite, calcite-dolomite-calcic amphibole-chlorite-spinel, calcite-dolomite-calcic amphibole-chlorite-olivine-spinel, calcite-dolomite-chlorite-olivine-spinel, calcite-dolomite-olivine-spinel. The spatial distribution of parageneses and the occurrence of low-variance parageneses indicate buffering of the pore fluid composition by the local mineral assemblages. The observed sequence of mineral reactions and the spacing of isograds is in good agreement with experimental and calculated equilibria in terms of P-T-XCO2and temperatures of equilibration inferred from calcite-dolomite geothermometry, which range from 435 to 607 °C across the aureole.
The Effect of Providing Research Purpose Information When Treatment Is Delayed.

Summary This study looked at time as the critical factor when providing research purpose information to S s in classroom settings. The sample, 239 male and female students in 16 classes at a Southern university, was randomly assigned to one of six treatment groups. Each group was provided research purpose information ranging from no information to complete positive and complete negative information. The Minnesota Teacher Attitude Inventory was used as the dependent variable and was administered one week after the S s were provided the research purpose information. ANOVA indicated significant differences among the groups at the .01 level. S s acted in accordance with the information given and the E's expectations.
Britain and the experience of relative decline, 1895–1905

(1987). Britain and the experience of relative decline, 1895–1905. Journal of Strategic Studies: Vol. 10, No. 3, pp. 331-362.
Integrated cardiac PET-CT for the diagnosis and management of CAD.

The clinical evidence discussed previously suggests that integrated PET-CT is a powerful noninvasive modality for diagnosing and managing CAD. The need for gated scans, the use of nephrotoxic contrast, and the potential limitations imposed by the presence of calcium bring into question the generalizability of CT alone to all patients with known or suspected CAD. Beyond diagnosis of CAD, CT coronary angiography may find its most important challenge in guiding management after the diagnosis of CAD is established. Thus the greatest strength of integrated PET-CT imaging is its ability to establish the diagnosis, define risk, and guide management with a single study.
Optimal weighting of a priori statistics in linear estimation theory

Abstract Many scientific and engineering applications require the determination of the state of a dynamical system at some reference time. A common solution technique is to perform a Taylor series expansion about a nominal solution and compute linear corrections to this nominal by the use of a set of discrete observations of the dynamical system. In cases where the observational data set is ill conditioned, statistical information on the nominal solution is commonly incorporated into the solution process in order to provide stability in the computation of the linear corrections. This statistical information is generally the uncertainty in the nominal solution, known as the “a priori covariance.” This a priori information is typically weighted equally with the observational data in conventional minimum variance (or maximum likelihood) solution methods. Often the a priori information available for certain types of dynamical systems is inaccurate or generated by inadequate means. It has been shown that the accuracy of the estimates is highly dependent on the choice of the a priori covariance. Inaccurate a priori information can contribute to large errors in the estimates in ill-conditioned problems. Methods developed herein provide for the “optimal” weighting of the a priori covariance used in the solution of the linear correction to the nominal solution. These methods are demonstrated by their application to a space mechanics simulation in which a satellite's orbit must be precisely determined. Results are compared to those obtained by conventional minimum variance solution techniques in order to demonstrate the possible improvement in the estimate accuracy achievable by the use of such optimal weighting techniques.
Analysis of Solders by X-Ray Spectrometry

The determination of several percent of Au, Ag, and Cu in various Sn/Pb solder compositions used in the manufacture of microelectronic circuits is described. Details of the preparation of standards and x-ray procedure are given. The Au calibration curve can be prepared from any Sn/Pb composition. The Ag and Cu calibration curves must be prepared for each solder composition.
Polyphosphate separations and chain length characterization using minibore ion chromatography with conductivity detection

The separation of linear and cyclic polyphosphates with chain lengths of 1 to ca. 30, using 2 mm I.D. polymeric ion-exchange columns and suppressed conductivity detection, is described. The separations are characterized by good resolution of phosphate species and analysis times < 30 min. To assess the accuracy of the chromatograms obtained, average chain lengths of sodium hexametaphosphate and glassy phosphates in the range 5–25 are determined and compared with results obtained by 31P NMR and potentiometric titration. General agreement among the three techniques is seen. An example is presented using ion chromatography to follow the hydrolysis of sodium hexametaphosphate.
The Viking decelerator system - An overview.

The Viking mission to place an instrumented lander on Mars in 1976 includes an aerodynamic decelerator as part of the landing sequence. Development of the decelerator, a single-stage mortared disk-gap-band parachute, began in 1965 for the Voyager project and culminated in the flight qualification of the decelerator system for the Viking mission in 1972. This paper summarizes the research, development, and qualification effort. The special operating conditions and the constraints imposed by the Viking mission and the Mars atmosphere, their effects on the decelerator system, and the solution of the resulting technical problems are briefly described.
On the electrical resistivity of alkali vapours at high densities

A scheme for calculating the electrical resistivity for a chosen element at a given density is presented, and theoretical estimates of resistivity of alkali vapours at high densities and temperatures at a few thousand degrees are made.
Labelling of electroreceptive afferents in a gymnotoid fish by intracellular injection of HRP: The mystery of multiple maps

Physiologically identified primary electroreceptive afferents in the gymnotiform fish,Eigenmannia, were labelled by intracellular injection of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) in order to determine their termination sites in the posterior lateral line lobe (PLLL) (Fig. 1). For each terminal field we mapped the location of the associated receptor pore on the body surface and found: 1) Ampullary units project in a somatotopically ordered manner to the medial PLLL. 2) Tuberous units, both P- and T-types, project in a somatotopically ordered manner to three separate regions of the PLLL, called central-medial, central-lateral and lateral (Figs. 2–4). Each tuberous unit projects to all three maps and the projections of P- and T-units are in somatotopic register.
Localization of myotonic dystrophy protein kinase in skeletal muscle and its alteration with disease

Myotonic dystrophy (DM) is an autosomal dominant disorder which affects skeletal muscle, heart, eye lens, brain, and endocrine functions. The disease-causing mutations are expansions of the triplet repeat CTG in the 3' untranslated region of a locus which encodes a serine/threonine protein kinase that represents a new family of protein kinases. A monoclonal antibody to a recombinant DM protein kinase (mAb DM-1) reacts specifically with the 64 kDa isoform of DM protein kinase in type I fibers in skeletal muscle, the fiber type which characteristically atrophies in the disease. Within type I fibers of normal muscle the isoform may be localized with mAb DM-1 to the triad region. In the DM disease state, the enzyme is redistributed to the pathologically characteristic peripheral sarcoplasmic masses. In markedly affected human distal myotonic muscle, the levels of the 64 kDa DM kinase isoform are elevated relative to slow skeletal myosin heavy chain. These results suggest that, consistent with the dominant clinical phenotype, the localization and accumulation of the 64 kDa isoform are altered in the heterozygous disease state.
Photofragmentation of the H3 molecule, including Jahn-Teller coupling effects

We have developed a theoretical method for interpretation of photoionization experiments with the ${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ molecule. In the present study we give a detailed description of the method, which combines multichannel quantum defect theory, the adiabatic hyperspherical approach, and the techniques of outgoing Siegert pseudostates. The present method accounts for vibrational and rotation excitations of the molecule, deals with all symmetry restrictions imposed by the geometry of the molecule, including vibrational, rotational, electronic, and nuclear spin symmetries. The method was recently applied to treat dissociative recombination of the $\mathrm{H}_{3}{}^{+}$ ion. Since $\mathrm{H}_{3}{}^{+}$ dissociative recombination has been a controversial problem, the present study also allows us to test the method on the process of photoionization, which is understood better than dissociative recombination. Good agreement with two photoionization experiments is obtained.
Extraction of anthocyanins from industrial purple-fleshed sweetpotatoes and enzymatic hydrolysis of residues for fermentable sugars

Abstract Recent trends in health and wellness as well as fossil fuel dependent markets provide opportunities for agricultural crops as renewable resources in partial replacement of synthetic components in food, clothing and fuels. This investigation focused on purple-fleshed industrial sweetpotatoes (ISPs), a crop which is used for industrial purposes because it produces relatively high quantities of antioxidants in the form of anthocyanins as well as high starch content for potential hydrolysis into fermentable sugars. Laboratory extraction and enzymatic hydrolysis studies were conducted on purple-fleshed ISPs in order to evaluate the effects of solvent, extraction temperature and solid loading on recovery of anthocyanins and fermentable sugars. Total monomeric anthocyanin and phenolic concentrations of the extracts were measured. Residual solids from anthocyanin extraction were subsequently hydrolyzed for sugar production (maltotriose, maltose, glucose and fructose). Extraction temperature of 80 °C using acidified methanol at 3.3% (w/v) solid loading showed the highest anthocyanin recovery at 186.1 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside/100 g fw. Acidified solvents resulted in 10–45% and 16–46% more anthocyanins than non-acidified solvents of ethanol and methanol, respectively. On average, glucose production ranged from 268 to 395 mg/g dry ISP. Solid residues that went through extraction with acidified ethanol at 50 °C at 17% (w/v) solid loading had the highest average production of glucose at 395 mg/g dry ISP. Residues from methanol solvents had lower glucose production after hydrolysis compared to those of ethanol based extraction. Fermentation of produced sugars from ISP residues was limited, where 38% less ethanol was produced from extraction residues compared to treatments that did not undergo initial extraction. Overall, purple-fleshed ISPs are amenable to anthocyanin and phenolic extraction, making it a suitable substrate for development of industrial colorants and dyes. However, more research is needed to obtain a suitable extraction point when trying to achieve a high recovery of anthocyanins and effective starch conversion to fermentable glucose.
Quality Monitoring of Physicians: Linking Patients’ Experiences of Care to Clinical Quality and Outcomes

Background Physicians are increasingly asked to improve the delivery of clinical services and patient experiences of care.
Mechanisms and Therapy of Complex Arrhythmias in Pediatric Patients

In recent years, the distinction between the diagnostic and therapeutic techniques used in the assessment and management of pediatric and adult patients with arrhythmias has gradually blurred. Nonetheless, arrhythmias in the pediatric patient are still often different from the adult patient in one of two important ways. First, a variety of arrhythmia mechanisms remain relatively unique to the pediatric population, some because of developmental issues and others because of early presentation of an incessant tachycardia. Second, the presentation and management of certain arrhythmias is sometimes markedly affected by patient age or the presence of structural congenital heart disease. A sampling from each of the above categories is reviewed and discussed.
Description and sensitivity analysis of a limb scattering ozone retrieval algorithm

[1] We present the theoretical basis for an algorithm that retrieves vertical profiles of ozone concentration using measurements of light scattered from the limb of the atmosphere. Simulated radiances at wavelengths between 300 and 675 nm are inverted using the optimal estimation technique, producing a retrieved ozone number density profile between 10 and 55 km. A detailed sensitivity analysis of this ozone retrieval algorithm follows. The largest source of ozone retrieval error is tangent height misregistration (i.e., instrument pointing error), which is relevant throughout the altitude range of interest and produces retrieval errors on the order of 10–20% due to a tangent height registration error of 0.5 km. The retrieved profile is shifted in altitude relative to the true profile, with very little distortion of the profile shape. Sensitivity to stratospheric aerosol is also a significant source of error, with errors of 5–8% for altitudes less than 40 km under background aerosol conditions when an aerosol-free atmosphere is assumed by the algorithm. Using an incorrect a priori ozone estimate can produce errors up to 15% at altitudes near 10 km, but the a priori profile has little influence above that level. Addressing these error sources (e.g., with better instrument pointing knowledge, introduction of reliable aerosol information, and better instrument signal-to-noise to reduce the importance of the a priori ozone estimate, respectively) is the key to significantly improving the retrieval accuracy. Further improvement would then be limited by several secondary error sources that produce retrieval errors at the 5% level.
The stepwise multi-photon activation fluorescence guided ablation of melanin

Previous research has shown that the stepwise multi-photon activation fluorescence (SMPAF) of melanin, activated and excited by a continuous-wave (CW) mode near infrared (NIR) laser, is a low-cost and reliable method for detecting melanin. We have developed a device utilizing the melanin SMPAF to guide the ablation of melanin with a 975 nm CW laser. This method provides the ability of targeting individual melanin particles with micrometer resolution, and enables localized melanin ablation to be performed without collateral damage. Compared to the traditional selective photothermolysis, which uses pulsed lasers for melanin ablation, this method demonstrates higher precision and lower cost. Therefore, the SMPAF guided selective ablation of melanin is a promising tool of melanin ablation for both medical and cosmetic purposes.
Effect of stress on water diffusion in silica glass at various temperatures

Abstract Effects of stress on diffusion of water into silica glass were studied at several temperatures by hydrothermally treating the glass under applied stress. The surface hydrogen concentrations were determined using nuclear reaction analysis and the hydroxyl concentration profiles were analyzed with a Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer. It was found that the effects of stress on water diffusion into silica glass strongly depend upon temperature; specifically the concentration of water in the glass surface is higher in glass under compression than in glass under tension at low temperatures (e.g., 250°C), while an opposite behavior was observed at high temperatures (e.g., 650°C). On the other hand, the effective diffusion coefficient of water was higher under tension than under compression at low temperatures, while the opposite behavior was observed at higher temperatures. The low temperature behavior was attributed to the effect of stress on the kinetics of water uptake, and the high temperature behavior was attributed to the effect of applied stress on the glass-water reaction equilibrium.
Excitation effects on LSO unit sustained responses: Point process characterization

LSO units recover from a spike discharge in a characteristic way, modeled by an intrinsic recovery function that is stimulus invariant up to a scaling factor and a shifting constant. Data analysis shows that the effect of increasing excitatory stimulus level can be described by amplifying the intrinsic recovery function and by shifting it toward shorter intervals. The shifting process secondarily interacts with the absolute deadtime to produce the response characteristics of the three LSO unit types. Decreased excitation is clearly distinguished from inhibition, which affects the scaling, but not the time origin, of the recovery. We conclude that both excitatory and inhibitory stimulus levels are encoded in the timing of LSO unit discharges.
Measuring social networks with digital photograph collections

The ease and lack of cost associated with taking digital photographs have allowed people to amass large personal photograph collections. These collections contain valuable information about their owners' social relationships. This paper is a preliminary investigation into how digital photo collections can provide useful data for the study of social networks. Results from an analysis of 23 subjects' photo collections demonstrate the feasibility of this approach. The relationship between perceived closeness and network position, as well as future questions, are also discussed.
A Banquet of the Senses:: The Mythological Structure of Persiles y Sigismunda, III

Over the years, critics such as Juan Bautista Avalle-Arce, Joaquin Casalduero and Rafael Osuna have stressed the differences that exist between the first two books of Cervantes’ Persiles y Sigismunda and the last two, and have developed a lengthy and complex set of opposing characteristics.1 One of the salient contrasts found in this ‘dicotomia artistica’2 is the opposition between the mythical ambience of the northern adventures of Books I and II and the more historical and verisimilar narration typical of the southern journeys of Books III and IV. Even Alban K. Forcione, who feels that the differences within the Persiles have been overemphasized by cervantistas, admits that ‘the Christian mythology is generally less displaced in the northern adventures than in the southern adventures’.3 And, Ruth El Saffar, following his lead, complains that: ‘So much narrative material so displaced from its mythological underpinnings makes reading the allegories in Book III more difficult’.4 This essay is an attempt to...
Mechanisms of agglomerate growth in green pelletization

Abstract The mechanisms responsible for the formation and growth of agglomerates in balling or granulation can be described as nucleation, coalescence, abrasion transfer, breakage, and snowballing. These mechanisms have been identified by means of tracer studies using two calcites which have similar green pelletizing behavior but different fluorescent characteristics. Precise definitions of the growth mechanisms, so as to be useful for mathematical modeling of agglomeration processes, are given. Further, the batch balling behavior of particulate materials in terms of the growth mechanisms is discussed.
The MP/SOFT methodology for simulations of quantum dynamics: Model study of the photoisomerization of the retinyl chromophore in visual rhodopsin

Rigorous simulations of excited-state nonadiabatic quantum dynamics in polyatomic chromophores are particularly challenging since they require solving the multichannel time-dependent Schrequation describing nuclear wavepackets evolving on electronically coupled poten- tial energy surfaces. This paper presents an overview of the matching-pursuit/split-operator-Fourier-transform (MP/SOFT) method for simulations of nonadiabatic quantum dynamics (X. Chen, V.S. Batista, Matching-pursuit split operator Fourier transform simulations of excited-state nonadi- abatic quantum dynamics in pyrazine. J. Chem. Phys., 125 (2006) Art. No. 124313) and its application to the description of the 11-cis/all-trans photoisomerization of the retinyl chromophore in rhodopsin. The underlying nonadiabatic dynamics is described by a 2-state 25-dimensional wave-packet evolving according to an empirical model Hamiltonian with frequencies and excited-state gradients parameterized to reproduce the observed resonance Raman excitations of rhodopsin. The reported results show that the MP/SOFT method is a valuable tool to simulate nonadi- abatic dynamics in polyatomic systems and to assess the validity of mixed quantum-classical approaches as applied to simulations of complex (nonintegrable) quantum dynamics in multidimensional systems. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Real-time sensor validation and fusion for distributed autonomous sensors

Multi-sensor data fusion has found widespread applications in industrial and research sectors. The purpose of real time multi-sensor data fusion is to dynamically estimate an improved system model from a set of different data sources, i.e., sensors. This paper presented a systematic and unified real time sensor validation and fusion framework (RTSVFF) based on distributed autonomous sensors. The RTSVFF is an open architecture which consists of four layers - the transaction layer, the process fusion layer, the control layer, and the planning layer. This paradigm facilitates distribution of intelligence to the sensor level and sharing of information among sensors, controllers, and other devices in the system. The openness of the architecture also provides a platform to test different sensor validation and fusion algorithms and thus facilitates the selection of near optimal algorithms for specific sensor fusion application. In the version of the model presented in this paper, confidence weighted averaging is employed to address the dynamic system state issue noted above. The state is computed using an adaptive estimator and dynamic validation curve for numeric data fusion and a robust diagnostic map for decision level qualitative fusion. The framework is then applied to automatic monitoring of a gas-turbine engine, including a performance comparison of the proposed real-time sensor fusion algorithms and a traditional numerical weighted average.
An object lesson in colonial pedagogy

Centrant son analyse sur deux contextes d'utilisation de la lecon de choses au 19 eme siecle, les ecoles evangeliques de formation des enseignants en Ecosse et les ecoles missionnaires du Bengale britannique, l'A. examine les origines des represenations sur la methode pedagogique de Pestalozzi selon lesquelles des objets particuliers peuvent representer des concepts abstraits. Il montre comment, dans une telle lecon, l'objet - un grain de poivre, par exemple - est utilise pour elucider ses proprietes sensuelles, mais que ce qui est suppose etre une methode purement empirique integre egalement des attributs geographiques et coloniaux/imperiaux, qui amenent l'enfant des objets tangibles individuels vers des classes de plus en plus inclusives et abstraites. Dans le contexte colonial de l'Empire britannique, la methode de Pestalozzi contient des significations chretiennes et coloniales, mettant en evidence comment des theories educatives progressistes peuvent integrer des presupposes ideologiques. Dans sa forme missionnaire, la lecon de choses fut un moyen pour enseigner la vraie relation entre la matiere et l'esprit, distincte de ce qui etait considere comme fetichisme et idolâtrie dans l'hindouisme.
Context-Dependent Automatic Image Screening System

Over the past two years Honeywell has developed a context dependent automatic image recognition system for analyzing the imagery automatically and detecting tactical as well as strategic targets in the image. The main features of the image recognition system are sequential frame processing, symbolic image segmentation, syntactic recognition, and, recognition of multicomponent objects and conflict removal. In this paper we describe various components of this context dependent automatic image recognition system and information flow between these components.
THE INSIGHT DRIVEN ORGANISATION

Seduced by analytics and big data, companies are overlooking the compelling power of qualitative judgement. Alessandro Di Fiore calls for a re-think.
A survey of state-of-the-art in anonymity metrics

Anonymization enables organizations to protect their data and systems from a diverse set of attacks and preserve privacy; however, in the area of anonymized network data, few, if any, are able to precisely quantify how anonymized their information is for any particular dataset. Indeed, recent research indicates that many anonymization techniques leak some information. An ability to confidently measure this information leakage and any changes in anonymity levels plays a crucial role in facilitating the free-flow of cross-organizational network data sharing and promoting wider adoption of anonyimzation techniques. Fortunately, multiple methods of analyzing anonymity exist. Typical approaches use simple quantifications and probabilistic models; however, to the best of our knowledge, only one network data anonymization metric has been proposed. More importantly, no one-stop-shop paper exists that comprehensively surveys this area for other candidate measures; therefore, this paper explores the state-of-the-art of anonymity metrics. The objective is to provide a macro-level view of the systematic analysis of anonymity preservation, degradation, or elimination for data anonymization as well as network communciations anonymization.
A fully-automated software pipeline for integrating breast density and parenchymal texture analysis for digital mammograms: parameter optimization in a case-control breast cancer risk assessment study

Estimating a woman’s risk of breast cancer is becoming increasingly important in clinical practice. Mammographic density, estimated as the percent of dense (PD) tissue area within the breast, has been shown to be a strong risk factor. Studies also support a relationship between mammographic texture and breast cancer risk. We have developed a fullyautomated software pipeline for computerized analysis of digital mammography parenchymal patterns by quantitatively measuring both breast density and texture properties. Our pipeline combines advanced computer algorithms of pattern recognition, computer vision, and machine learning and offers a standardized tool for breast cancer risk assessment studies. Different from many existing methods performing parenchymal texture analysis within specific breast subregions, our pipeline extracts texture descriptors for points on a spatial regular lattice and from a surrounding window of each lattice point, to characterize the local mammographic appearance throughout the whole breast. To demonstrate the utility of our pipeline, and optimize its parameters, we perform a case-control study by retrospectively analyzing a total of 472 digital mammography studies. Specifically, we investigate the window size, which is a lattice related parameter, and compare the performance of texture features to that of breast PD in classifying case-control status. Our results suggest that different window sizes may be optimal for raw (12.7mm 2 ) versus vendor post-processed images (6.3mm2). We also show that the combination of PD and texture features outperforms PD alone. The improvement is significant (p=0.03) when raw images and window size of 12.7mm 2 are used, having an ROC AUC of 0.66. The combination of PD and our texture features computed from post-processed images with a window size of 6.3 mm 2 achieves an ROC AUC of 0.75.
A mechanism for emplacement and concentration of diatoms in glacigenic deposits

The occurrence of diatoms (both marine and freshwater) in sediments beneath the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (WAIS) is suggestive of past ice-sheet collapse. However, it is not the only model explaining such occurrences. We propose another mechanism for introducing diatoms beneath ice sheets by considering the fate of a diatom placed (by eolian processes) on top of an ice sheet. Mathematical modeling indicates that the route the diatom will take through the ice sheet is dictated by the basal melting rate. If no basal melting takes place, flowlines will crop out at the ice-sheet margin. However, if basal melting is as low as 0.01 m/yr the trajectories of all Howlines except for those nearest the margin will intersect the bed, with those diatoms deposited near the dome reaching the bed about halfway down the Howband. Larger values of basal melting lead to the diatoms reaching the bed even faster and closer to the point of origin. In light of these results, the presence of diatoms in sediments beneath the WAIS does not lead to a unique solution; it is not necessary to invoke past ice-sheet collapse to account for their presence.
Evaluation of the Billroth I gastric resection.

Results of the Billroth I operation in duodenal ulcer have been too variable to warrant our complete confidence in the operation. This is academic, since the combined operation (hemigastrectomy plus vagotomy plus gastroduodenostomy) appears to be far superior to eitherad modum Billroth I or II gastric resections for this disease entity. The treatment of benign gastric ulcer by Billroth I distal gastrectomy (usually, antrectomy is sufficient) is generally recognized as exceptionally satisfactory. The Billroth I resection for gastric carcinoma has its advocates and detractors; we have no set convictions concerning this problem. Finally, we believe that there is merit in the conversion of a Billroth II to I anastomosis for the treatment of severe dumping.
Tertiary amide chemistry at the Ge(1 0 0)-2 × 1 surface

Abstract We have investigated the adsorption of several tertiary amides, including N , N -dimethylformamide, N , N -dimethylformamide- d 7 , 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone, and N -methylcaprolactam, on Ge(1 0 0)-2 × 1 using multiple internal reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and density functional theory. At 310 K, all four tertiary amides were observed to selectively form a dative bond to the germanium surface through the oxygen atom. While previous work has shown that oxygen dative bonds are unstable near room temperature, tertiary amides exhibit delocalization of electron density from nitrogen to oxygen, which appears to increase the stability of the oxygen dative-bonded state. Partial desorption of these surface adducts on the timescale of minutes indicates weakly bound surface adducts with coverage dependent binding energies.
Binding of Ribosomal Proteins to RNA Covalently Coupled to Agarose

An affinity chromatographic procedure, using ribosomal or tRNA covalently coupled to agarose through an adipic acid dihydrazide spacer, has been developed to isolate and identify the Escherichia coli ribosomal proteins which specifically bind to these RNA molecules. Transfer RNA, 5-S, 16-S and 23-S ribosomal RNA were readily immobilized on agarose-dihydrazide: the maximum amount coupled decreasing with increasing molecular size. Specific binding of ribosomal proteins to RNA was observed in buffer containing 0.3 M KCI and 0.02 M MgC12. Bound proteins were eluted with a high-salt, 2 M KCI, buffer containing 0.005 M EDTA. Two ribosomal proteins, identified as L18 and L25 by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, bound tightly to E. cob 5-S RNA;' small amounts of a third protein, L5, also were bound. These proteins did not bind to immobilized tRNA nor did 30-S ribosomal proteins bind to 5-S RNA. Denatured 5-S RNA bound less Ll8 and L25 than the native species. Several 30-S and 50-S ribosomal proteins bind to immobilized tRNA. The major 503 subunit proteins tightly bound to tRNA were identified as L3, L4, L5, L7 and L8/L9. Smaller amounts of proteins L1, L2, L11, L16 and L21 were also observed. Proteins L2 and L16 were retarded by agarose-bound tRNA. Protein S3 was the major 30-S subunit protein bound to tRNA. Lesser quantities of proteins S6, S9, S13 and S18 also interacted with tRNA.