cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Surface Evolution of NiTi and NiTiHf Thin Films

The microstructure evolution of Ti-rich NiTi thin films and (TiHf)-rich NiTiHf thin films containing 9at% Hf was investigated. These films were deposited from single NiTi and NiTiHf targets using a DC magnetron sputtering system. Free-standing films were obtained by using single crystal silicon substrates. The thickness of these films was controlled between 10-12 μm. In this investigation, the effects of deposition temperature on the surface and cross-sectional microstructures of these films were studied. Substrate temperature during deposition was varied between 300°C to 700°C at 100°C intervals. The influence of post deposition heat treatment (HT) temperature on the microstructure of these films was also studied. The post deposition HT temperature was varied between 300°C and 800°C at 100°C intervals. Both surface and cross- sectional microstructures were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The crystallinity and the phases present were determined using x-ray diffractometry. All the as- deposited films were found to be crystalline, even when the substrate temperature was as low as 300°C. Results from the microstructure analysis show that all the films have a relatively fine grain size ranging from 0.2 μm to 2.5 μm, and the grain size increases with increasing substrate deposition temperature. The effect of post deposition HT on grain size was found to be minimal.
Genetic variants of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in the study of carcinoma of the cervix.

Electrophoretic variants of the X-linked enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase were used to study the possible single cell or multicellular origin of human cervical neoplasia. Normal and affected tissue from Negro women with cervical dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, and invasive cervical carcinoma were evaluated. The results with pre-invasive disease were consistent with a single cell origin. Findings in invasive carcinoma in five patients are compatible with a unicellular origin, while in two patients a multicellular origin seems likely. This raises the possibility of a heterogeneous etiology of invasive cervical epidermoid carcinoma. Sequential studies of one patient with invasive carcinoma, studied while undergoing radiation therapy, suggest the utility of G-6-PD electrophoresis for determining effectiveness and progress of treatment.
Disordered Materials: A Survey of Amorphous Solids

A brief historical perspective and a review of the current research on amorphous or glassy materials are presented. Glass formation by natural processes and by laboratory synthesis techniques is described. Recent efforts to characterize and model the atomic scale structure of amorphous phases are surveyed. The relation between amorphous and liquid states is emphasized in a discussion of thermodynamics and kinetics. The topic of crystal-to-glass transformation in the solid state and the related issue of crystal stability and melting are discussed.
Fractal distribution of earthquake hypocenters and its relation to fault patterns and percolation

We argue that percolation provides a unified theory for the geometry of fault patterns and the spatial distribution of earthquakes. We analyze the structure of fracture patterns in heterogeneous rocks and find that, at large length scales, they are percolation fractals with a fractal dimension D\ensuremath{\simeq}1.9 and 2.5, in 2D and 3D, respectively. A model is proposed that can predict these results. Three-dimensional fractal analysis of spatial distribution of earthquake hypocenters yields a fractal dimension of about 1.8, the same as that of the backbone of 3D percolation clusters.
Analysis of engineering discipline grade trends

Among the academic community, there is a perception that there is an upward shift in grade point average over an extended period of time without a corresponding increase in achievement. This trend has become an alarming topic among educators, industry and the general public. Some attribute increases in GPA to improvements in student quality while others point to the emergence of a consumer‐based perception of education that unjustly awards high grades. The objective of this paper is to review various opinions regarding grade inflation, investigate whether grade inflation exists in engineering curricula, and analyze the related factors. Using eight years of detailed course data from a college of engineering, we seek insight into recent grading practices within each engineering discipline. The results indicate an upward trend in grade point average and an increasing prevalence of ‘A’ grades. However, both trends match increases in student achievement potential as measured by ACT composite score. The results...
The first-order behavior of separable oscillators

The first-order performance of oscillators satisfying Groszkowski's criterion of separability of linear and nonlinear elements can be predicted in the first order with a knowledge only of the Nyquist diagram of the linear portion of the circuit, the amplitude characteristic of the nonlinear portion, and the loop gain. The best form of nonlinear characteristic from the standpoint of frequency stability is one in which the odd-power terms are dominant.
Review: Calcium supplements increase risk for myocardial infarction but not mortality or stroke in adults

Source Citation Bolland MJ, Avenell A, Baron JA, et al. Effect of calcium supplements on risk of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular events: meta-analysis. BMJ. 2010;341:c3691. 20671013
Understanding engineering transfer students: Demographic characteristics and educational outcomes

Transfer students make up a significant share of engineering college graduates, yet their persistence is seldom studied, largely because of the lack of longitudinal data. This analysis used longitudinal data from 11 universities enrolling large numbers of engineering students to investigate the demographic characteristics and educational outcomes of transfer students in engineering relative to non-transfers. We find that students who transfer to four-year engineering programs are more likely to come from under-represented minority groups (URMs) and less likely to be women, although both groups are over-represented at two-year colleges. The findings confirm existing research indicating that, on average, non-transfers outperform transfer students, and non-URMs outperform URMs. But we also find that URM transfers, and especially Black transfers, are no less successful than nontransfer students — indicating that the transfer pathway is an effective bridge to a four-year degree. This is partly true for women transfers who do as well as men but are outperformed by women non-transfers. Finally, we find significant variation in outcomes between full- and part-time students, which may be driving the observed differences by transfer status. Our results should inform debates regarding the efficacy of the transfer pathway in engineering, particularly for women and URMs.
Mechanobiology of low-density lipoprotein transport within an arterial wall—Impact of hyperthermia and coupling effects

The effects of hyperthermia, coupling attributes and property variations on Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) transport within a multi-layered wall while accounting for the fluid structure interaction (FSI) is analyzed in this work. To understand the potential impact of the hyperthermia process, thermo-induced attributes are incorporated, accounting for the plasma flow, mass transfer, as well as the elastic wall structure. The coupling effect of osmotic pressure, Soret and Dufour diffusion is discussed and their influence on LDL transport is examined, demonstrating that only the Soret effect needs to be accounted for. The effect of thermal expansion on changing the behavior of flow, mass transport, and elastic structure is illustrated and analyzed while incorporating the variations in the effective LDL diffusivity and consumption rate, as well as other dominating parameters. It is shown that hyperthermia results in an enhancement in LDL transport by increasing the concentration levels within the arterial wall.
Web user behavioral profiling for user identification

In this paper, we propose a simple, yet powerful approach to profile users' web browsing behavior for the purpose of user identification. The importance of being able to identify users can be significant given a wide variety of applications in electronic commerce, such as product recommendation, personalized advertising, etc. We create user profiles capturing the strength of users' behavioral patterns, which can be used to identify users. Our experiments indicate that these profiles can be more accurate at identifying users than decision trees when sufficient web activities are observed, and can achieve higher efficiency than Support Vector Machines. The comparisons demonstrate that profile-based methods for user identification provide a viable and simple alternative to this problem.
DSRC Channel Fading Analysis from Empirical Measurement

Vehicle-to-vehicle communication research has gained tremendous interest in recent years due to its importance in facilitating future active safety and telematics applications. However, with limited literature available, there is lack of understanding for modeling mobile-to-mobile channels in vehicular environments. In this paper, we conduct preliminary channel fading statistical analysis of empirical measurement data from devices compatible with the emerging dedicated short range communications (DSRC) standard. In particular, we use the Nakagami distribution to analyze the received signal strength (i.e., RSSI) from empirical measurement, and characterize the fading statistics as a function of distance for vehicular operating environment. Our analysis reveals that fading can be approximated by Rician distribution within 100 m while it seems to follow Rayleigh distribution beyond 100 m. The outcome of the study could be used for vehicular network simulation.
The business case of a network that serves both public safety and commercial subscribers

Deploying a single nationwide broadband wireless network to serve all public safety users would have great advantages over the existing fragmented public safety systems. A nationwide system could be created to serve both public safety and commercial subscribers, which would allow a provider to exploit important economies but force it to meet the more costly requirements of public safety. This paper analyzes the viability of a public-private partnership that serves public safety and commercial subscribers from a for-profit provider's perspective. A model is presented that estimates the net present value (NPV) of a wireless network by calculating costs based on the number of cell sites required and revenue based on the projected number of subscribers acquired. The model is applied to both a network that serves only commercial subscribers on 10MHz of 700MHz spectrum and a public-private partnership that serves commercial subscribers and public safety personnel on 20MHz of 700MHz spectrum. It is found that NPV is greater for the public-private partnership than for the commercial-only network for any population density, which shows that the value of 10MHz of spectrum exceeds the cost of meeting public safety requirements. Furthermore, the paper demonstrates that NPV/cell increases with population density, so urban areas are profitable and rural areas are unprofitable. The paper demonstrates that a partnership covering 94% of the US population breaks even because the most urban 56% of population subsidizes coverage for the next 38%. If initial deployment is subsidized, a financially sustainable public-private partnership can serve much more than 94%. Additionally, it is shown that allowing urban municipalities to opt-out of the partnership can significantly increase the subsidies required.
Motility changes associated with canine intestinal allografting.

Abstract Intraluminal pressures in segments of normal resting jejunum were measured by small balloon-tipped catheters. In most animals, ischemia produced a hyperperistaltic response which subsided during perfusion with cold Ringer's solution. Within 5 min after revascularization, intraluminal pressures increased threefold, with wide fluctuations, reflecting vigorous peristalsis. Intramural electrical activity was monitored using Teflon coated stainless steel wire electrodes. Complete severance of extrinsic innervation resulted in definite increase in action potentials and in some cases slow waves became irregular and decreased slightly in amplitude. Initially, ischemia produced vigorous spiking which disappeared during a 60-min perfusion period. Revascularization resulted in reappearance of electrical activity and vigorous peristalsis. Action potentials were prominent, while slow waves were irregular, of diminished amplitude and reduced in frequency. Necrosis of the segment secondary to rejection was associated with loss of electrical activity; based on gross appearance smooth muscle appeared more resistant to rejection than mucosa. Alterations of motility did not appear to be useful in early prediction of rejection.
One-way permutations in NC 0

Abstract We prove that there is a family of permutations which are computable by a family of NC0 circuits while their inverses are P-hard to compute. Thus, these permutations are one-way from the point of view of parallel computation.
Soil microbial community characteristics along an elevation gradient in the Laguna Mountains of Southern California

We sampled soil at four sites in the Laguna Mountains in the western Sonoran Desert to test the effects of site and sample location (between or beneath plants) on fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) and carbon substrate ulilization (Biolog) profiles. The four sites differed in elevation, soil type, plant community composition, and plant percent cover. Soil pH decreased and plant density increased with elevation. Fertile islands, defined as areas beneath plants with greater soil resources than bare areas, are present at all sites, but are most pronounced at lower elevations. Consistent with this pattern, fertile islands had the greatest influence on FAME and Biolog profiles at lower elevations. Based on the use of FAME biomarker and principal components analyses, we found that soil microbial communities between plants at the lowest elevation had proportionally more Gram-negative bacteria than all other soils. At the higher elevation sites there were few differences in FAME profiles of soils sampled between vs. beneath plants. Differences in FAME profiles under plants among the four sites were small, suggesting that the plant influence per se is more important than plant type in controlling FAME profiles. Since microbial biomass carbon was correlated with FAME number ðr ¼ 0:85; P , 0:0001Þ and with FAME named ðr ¼ 0:88; P , 0:0001Þ and total areas ðr ¼ 0:84; P , 0:0001Þ; we standardized the FAME data to ensure that differences in FAME profiles among samples were not the result of differences in microbial biomass. Differences in microbial substrate utilization profiles among sampling locations were greatest between samples taken under vs. between plants at the two lower elevation sites. Microbial substrate utilization profiles, therefore, also seem to be influenced more by the presence of plants than by specific plant type. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.
Inactivation of Leuconostoc dextranicum with carbon dioxide under pressure

Abstract Inactivation of micro-organisms with pressurized carbon dioxide at both supercritical and subcritical temperatures has been studied recently. This method differs conceptually from other processes in that the action of cell inactivation is prompted primarily by the extraction of intracellular substances from cells or cell membranes. Disturbance or damage to the balance of the biological system of the cell can cause death without rupture of the cell wall. Experimental results showed that Leuconostoc dextranicum cells were inactivated at least 10 8 -fold at 35 °C in 15 and 20 min under CO 2 pressures of 1000 and 3000 lbf in −2 respectively. Subcritical carbon dioxide is less effective, requiring about 40 and 35 min at these pressures to inactivate the same amount of cells. The inactivation rate is controlled essentially by the penetration of CO 2 into the microbial cells, which at a sufficient level extracts lipids or other vital constituents to achieve the lethal effect. Various important parameters of the inactivation process are explored.
Estimates of Export Sales to Eastern Europe and the USSR by U.S. Subsidiaries Located in Western Europe

This article estimates exports of machinery and chemical products to Eastern Europe by U.S. subsidiaries located in Western Europe and compares such exports with direct exports from the United States. It suggests one way of quantifying the dimensions of the involvement of U.S. subsidiaries in Europe in East-West trade, with the hope it will spark further study of the problem.
Femtosecond optical response of Y-Ba-Cu-O films and their applications in optoelectronics

We report systematic studies of the femtosecond transient reflectivity in Y-Ba-Cu-O (YBCO) thin films at temperatures ranging from 12 to 300 K. By using a 2-eV-pump/white-light-probe technique, we have very accurately measured the ultrafast optical response of YBCO as a function of the optical frequency, film oxygen content, and excitation intensity. Our results shed new light on the thermomodulation model, routinely used to interpret time-domain reflectivity data in high-temperature superconductors. We also review the current state of the art in the ultrafast optoelectronic response of YBCO.
Buckling of clamped circular arches subjected to a point load

This note presents the critical values of the downward point load applied at the crown of clamped circular arches with inextensible centroidal line. The calculations are based on the Euler theory of the initially curved elastica undergoing large deflections. In contrast to the two-highed circular arches the buckling is not always of the sidesway type; for most practical dimensions of the clamped arch the instability is characterized by snap-through.
Paleo-Oceanographic Significance of Eocene Diatomites in Kreyenhagen Formation of California: ABSTRACT

Diatomaceous shales of the Kreyenhagen Formation underlie much of the western San Joaquin valley of California and contain a remarkable record of middle and late Eocene paleo-oceanographic events along the evolving continental margin of this region. The Kreyenhagen Formation is similar in many respects to the much studied Miocene Monterey Formation of California with both units constituting known or potential sources of mature hydrocarbons due largely to their unusual biogenic character and similar but not identical depositional histories. Lithofacies and biofacies patterns within the Kreyenhagen indicate that it was deposited at upper and middle bathyal depths with the occurrence of laminated diatomites marking the intersection of a well-developed oxygen minimum layer ag inst continental slopes and basin sills analogous to Holocene continental margin settings off Peru, California, and in the Gulf of California. Quantitative analysis of benthic Forminifera within a 565 ft (172 m) thick sequence of Kreyenhagen shale in the Tumey Hills area of Fresno County illustrates that three low diversity - high abundance biofacies, dominated respectively by Bulimina corrugata, B. microcostata, and Bolivina spiralis, are indicative of various slope and base-of-slope environments characterized by differing levels of dissolved oxygen as dictated by the thickness and intensity of Eocene oxygen minima. Moreover, Bolivina spiralis appears to be homeomorphic with Suggrunda eckisi, a Neogene species with an apparent affinity for oxygen minimum facies. The sequential appearanc of massive and laminated diatomites and associated low oxygen megafaunal and microfaunal associations within the Kreyenhagen Formation allows estimates to be made of dissolved oxygen values in the Eocene water masses which, in turn, imply variations in climatically tuned rates of upwelling, siliceous productivity, and mid-water circulation as a function of the deteriorating global climate during middle and late Eocene time. Finally, the biogenic character of the Kreyenhagen diatomites within a Paleogene stratigraphic sequence otherwise dominated by terrigenous clastics suggests that deposition of this unit was coincident with a period of reduced flux of diluting terrigenous sediment to the continental margin likely induced by eustatic and/or tectonic adjustment of the Eocene strandline. /P> End_of_Article - Last_Page 1695------------
Time-optimal network queue control: the case of multiple congested nodes

The fundamental problem of time-optimal queue control in packet-switched networks is how to adjust source rates in time after network disturbances so that the network queue sizes converge to desired values in the minimum time, while ensuring that always at least one link remains fully utilized in every flow's path. This nonlinear feedback control problem had been solved in a previous paper for a single queue in a single congested node and the solution proven robust to queue size and bandwidth estimation errors. In this paper, we generalize that solution to a general network of flows crisscrossing queues, with link delays being arbitrary. The solution, derived for desired queue sizes of 0, turns out to be simple: two computationally simple conditions on the source rate control, viz. QRE-feasibility and maximally utilizing property are sufficient to ensure time-optimality, regardless of the packet scheduling scheme used inside the network nodes.
Computing system to support software development, testing, and product quality assurance for an earth observing system instrument: a case study

In 1998 the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) will launch the first of a series of Earth Observation System (EOS) spacecraft designed to study the environment. The moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) is a key EOS instrument. Current plans are to fly a series of six MODIS instruments on the EOS-AM and -PM satellite series. The operational life span for the EOS effort is fifteen years (1998 - 2012). Processing the data from the EOS platform and the MODIS instrument will require state of the art jumps in computing, storage and local and wide area networks. The continuous raw data rate from MODIS will average 10 megabits per second or approximately 110 gigabytes per day. The total product storage capacity for the MODIS data and products is estimated to be 650 gigabytes (GB) per day and 230 terrabytes (TB) per year. This paper focuses on the Team Leader Computing Facility (TLCF) which will be used to develop, integrate, optimize, test and validate the operational versions of the MODIS software. Approaches that achieve the high network bandwidth and high performance computing are needed to support MODIS software development and testing on global MODIS data sets. Candidate technologies are evaluated in light of the above requirements on the TLCF.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The ABC's of industry: a postdoc program provides a sneak peek into industry careers

An innovative partnership allows local companies to educate postdocs about careers in industry.
Diffuse and strong cyclin D1 immunoreactivity in clear cell sarcoma of the kidney.

Aims Distinguishing clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK) from other paediatric malignancies, particularly blastema-rich Wilms tumour (WT) and congenital mesoblastic nephroma (CMN), is challenging. Specific immunohistochemistry for CCSK does not exist, and diagnosis rests upon histopa thology. Recently, the YWHAE–FAM22 rearrange ment, identical to that in endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS), has been identified in CCSKs. As this fusion results in overexpression of cyclin D1 in ESS, we postulated that overexpression would also occur in CCSK; cyclin D1 immunohistochemistry could then be used to differentiate CCSK from other tumours. The goal of this study was therefore to evaluate the utility of cyclin D1 immunohistochemistry in identifying CCSK and helping to differentiate it from its mimics. Methods and results Cyclin D1 expression was evaluated in 59 renal tumours—CCSK (14), WT (25), rhabdoid tumour (four), Ewing sarcoma (five), and CMN (11)—and four neuroblastomas. All 14 CCSKs showed diffuse and strong reactivity. In contrast, the blastematous component of most WTs showed only rare positive nuclei, that of rhabdoid tumours showed rare to focal immunoreactivity, and that of more than half of CMNs showed weak or focal immunoreactivity. Most Ewing sarcomas and all neuroblastomas showed diffuse moderate to strong staining. Conclusions Cyclin D1 is most helpful in distinguishing CCSK from WT, rhabdoid tumour, and some CMNs, but not from neuroblastoma or Ewing sarcomas.
A Cross-Sectional Study of U.S. Attapulgite Workers

Abstract Attapulgite clay is an hydrated magnesium-aluminium silicate and is similar in crystalline structure and chemical formula to palygorskite, but differs in morphology and biological activity. Reported here is a cross-sectional morbidity study of U.S. workers mining and milling U.S. attapulgite. The current U.S. work force in two companies comprises the study cohort of 717 males. The mean age was about 38 years, and tenure was about 11 years. Dust levels were highest in crushing/screening, Raymond mill, and shipping/loading areas; dust levels were among the lowest in mining. Attapulgite particles are micro-fibrous, 0.02–0.1 μm in diameter and 0.5–3.0 μm in length and clumped together in large agglomerates 15–70 μm in diameter with little separation of individual particles. The prevalences of symptoms in companies A and B were respectively 5.1% and 3% for cough, 3.5% and 9.2% for dyspnea, and 12.2% and 3.4% for wheezing. There was no consistent association of symptoms and exposure as measured by tenure and cumulative dust exposure. Forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in one second were generally lower in the medium and high exposure groups, but the differences were not statistically significant. The overall prevalences of category 1 pneumoconiosis were 6.4% and 0.9% for category 2. About two thirds were rounded opacities and one third irregular opacities. Pneumoconiosis increased with age and exposure (tenure, cumulative respirable and total dust) but the trends were not statistically significant. There was no apparent association of reduced FEV1 and FVC with pneumoconiosis category. Overall, these data exhibit no consistent association of respiratory morbidity with exposure.
Preparing Early Childhood Teachers for English Language Learners

Children whose native language is one other than English face formidable challenges when they enter English-dominant schools. The task of learning English, progressing in one's native language, and acculturating to the school environment is a complicated one that requires the child to develop many new skills. In the past, children who were English Language Learners (ELLs) encountered a school system that offered little support. New teachers who enter the workforce must now know how to help these children move successfully into the school setting and learn English at the same time. The purpose of this article is to describe the process of change that occurred during the first year of a professional development grant aimed at infusing English Language Learner (ELL) competencies within an early childhood higher education teacher preparation program. A process is described that helped the faculty move from an awareness level to one that embraced a system to integrate ELL skill development within their coursework.
EFFECTIVE USE OF TEACHING ASSISTANTS IN FIRST YEAR CALCULUS

ABSTRACT Four typical classroom instruction formats, three of which utilize teaching assistants, are described. The effectiveness of these formats is compared based on quantitative measures of student performance, adjusted for differences in student preparation for calculus. Student performance is shown to be improved when instruction is given in a format in which there is some faculty involvement. No significant difference is found between the three types of faculty participation studied. Additional factors may favor a team teaching format using faculty members for large lectures together with teaching assistants for discussion sections.
Shining light on a new class of hydrogels

Addition of a photodegradable group to the backbone of synthetic hydrogels enables real-time control of the material's chemical and physical properties.
Upper Critical Fields of Nb-Ti Alloys: Evidence for the Influence of Pauli Paramagnetism

Resistivity, flow-resistance, and ultrasonic-attenuation measurements were carried out on Nb-37 at.% Ti and Nb-56 at.% Ti in dc magnetic fields up to 150 kG. The transition temperatures and the dependence of the upper critical field on temperature were measured by the resistive method. The transition temperatures are: ${T}_{c}=9.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$K for Nb-37 at.% Ti and ${T}_{c}=9.0\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$K for Nb-56 at.% Ti. Flow-resistance measurements gave the following values for the Ginzburg-Landau-Abrikosov-Gor'kov upper critical field at $T=0:111\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}7$ kG for Nb-37 at.% Ti and 188\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}9 kG for Nb-56 at.% Ti. Changes in the ultrasonic attenuation were observed near the upper critical field. The data support the view that the Pauli paramagnetism plays a role in determining the upper critical field. However, the effect of the Pauli paramagnetism is found to be smaller than predicted by Maki.
Geographical Limitations on Integral Collector Storage Collectors Due to Freezing

Passive integral collector storage (ICS) solar water heaters can potentially heat water at lower costs then active systems with freeze protection. However, ICS panels can freeze in cold weather. This study developed a model relating the freeze behavior to climate conditions, validated the model experimentally and then ran the model with long term U.S. weather data to delineate regions safe for the passive solar heaters. Both, a single- and a double-glazed tubular ICS panels were modeled and tested. It was found that freezing begins when the water in the supply/return lines freezes and initiates a pressure build up in the collector which can eventually burst the large collector tubes when the water inside freezes and expands. It was found that freezing can be delayed by installing heat tape over the supply/return lines. Using a model of the collector and TMY2 weather data, correlation maps were developed to show in which regions of the U.S. ICS panels with and without heat tapes can be installed safely.
The nature of the sulfur induced surface reconstruction on Ni(111)

Abstract Previous LEED and ion scattering measurements have shown that chemisorbed S on Ni(111) results in the reconstruction of the first Ni layer at coverages above 0.25 ML. Soft X-ray photoelectron (SXPS) and high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS) data are presented that support two possible models for this reconstruction while eliminating several others. SXPS indicates that the S adsorbs in a single state at low coverages and in two different states at high coverages. HREELS shows that the SNi coordination increases following reconstruction. These results are consistent with a reconstruction of the first Ni layer into a (100)-like surface with periodic gaps occurring after every four close-packed rows of Ni atoms in the [ 11 2 ] direction. They are also consistent with a recently proposed modification of this model where the (100) terraces are altered by a “clock” reconstruction.
Large simulation models: calibration, uniqueness and goodness of fit

Abstract Large simulation models of environmental systems which are based on biological and physical mechanisms are useful because of their ability to integrate diverse types of information relevant to the problem under analysis. Inherent in such models is a high degree of both structural and parametric complexity. A number of modeling and simulation studies have demonstrated that there are many parameter sets which produce good fits to calibration data. This lack of uniqueness requires a different perspective on parameter estimation which can be usefully addressed employing computer-intensive methods of multivariate statistical analysis. Regardless of how parameters are estimated, there appears to be a strong case to be made that the ‘best’ parameter estimate is an extended and complex region in a high dimensional space.
Changes in conduction within the diffuse sinoatrial node of the chicken following premature atrial stimulation.

Abstract 1. 1. Premature atrial stimulation was used to estimate sinoatrial conduction within the diffuse sinoatrial node of the bird (chicken), and compare its conduction with that reported for mammals. 2. 2. While sinoatrial conduction could not be determined in the chicken because reset did not occur, the premature wavefront did have an effect on the sinoatrial node because the recovery interval following the premature stimulus became less than compensatory with shortening of the premature stimulus interval. 3. 3. This less than compensatory non-reset recovery interval is interpreted as a conduction dependent response in which the intrinsic wavefront leading to the first recovery atrial activation conducts out of the node faster than normal. 4. 4. This conduction dependent recovery interval is seen infrequently in mammals (rabbit, dog and man). 5. 5. The absence of reset and the presence of a less than compensatory non-reset response in the chicken suggests that while the general organization of the sinoatrial node of the chicken is similar to that in mammals, a larger transitional cell network in the chicken prevents a premature wavefront from reaching the pacemaker cells and resetting them.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the olfactory apparatus

We review the normal anatomy of the olfactory system with special emphasis on its extraaxial portions. Pathological processes affecting this cranial nerve are divided into those that do not require imaging and those that do. Processes in which patients benefit from imaging, mostly with magnetic resonance, include suspected tumors and congenital abnormalities.
MO‐D‐330A‐09: Performance Evaluation of Different Fanbeam Algorithms in the Presence of Noise

Purpose: Different fanbeam reconstruction algorithms are being evaluated and the noise performances of these algorithms are compared at equivalent MTF.Method and Materials: The fanbeam reconstruction algorithms under comparison are FBP with Parkers smooth weighting (PFBP), LCFBP, DFBP, reconstruction algorithm by Noo et.al and exact reconstruction algorithm by Kudo et.al . The MTF from the five different algorithms were plotted and compared. In order to establish the basis for an unbiased comparison of the noise variance between different algorithms, we established the condition of equivalent spatial resolution. To achieve this, a window function was applied to the ramp filtering kernel before back‐projection for PFBP, LCFBP and Kudo's algorithm. A homogenous phantom was numerically simulated and Poisson noise with N0= 2e5 was added to the projection data. The images were reconstructed from projection data with and without the Poisson noise added. These images were then subtracted from each other to result in a subtracted or pure noise image. The variance in these noise images over five different ROIs was subsequently compared. FBP with Parkers smooth weighting was chosen as the gold‐standard and percentage decrease in variance in the imagesreconstructed using other four algorithms with respect to that of PFBP was tabulated. Results: The results showed that the new reconstruction algorithms had better noise performance than state‐of‐the‐art reconstruction algorithm (PFBP) after establishing the condition of equivalent spatial resolution. DFBP and exact reconstruction algorithm by Noo performed much better than the other three algorithms. Equal weighting scheme utilized definitely improved the noise performance over smooth weighting. DFBP showed a decrease of variance by about 23 % compared to PFBP. Conclusion: The reduction in noise variance theoretically leads to a radiation dose reduction by about 23 %. This will be of significant importance especially in pediatric imaging.
Accuracy of Estimating Wolf Summer Territories by Daytime Locations

Abstract We used locations of 6 wolves (Canis lupus) in Minnesota from Global Positioning System (GPS) collars to compare day-versus-night locations to estimate territory size and location during summer. We employed both minimum convex polygon (MCP) and fixed kernel (FK) methods. We used two methods to partition GPS locations for day-versus-night home-range comparisons: (1) daytime = 0800–2000 h; nighttime = 2000–0800 h; and (2) sunup versus sundown. Regardless of location-partitioning method, mean area of daytime MCPs did not differ significantly from nighttime MCPs. Similarly, mean area of daytime FKs (95% probability contour) were not significantly different from nightime FKs. FK core use areas (50% probability contour) did not differ between daytime and nighttime nor between sunup and sundown locations. We conclude that in areas similar to our study area day-only locations are adequate for describing the location, extent and core use areas of summer wolf territories by both MCP and FK methods.
The genetic control of pheromone production and response in the pine engraver beetle Ips pini

The genetic control of pheromone production and response in the pine engraver beetle Ips pini
A note on land use in a square city

Abstract This paper considers a two-dimensional rectangular city with a grid road system, including a square city as a special case, and then derives a simple equilibrium traffic pattern in the case of constant road width. We maintain that while land-use decisions using market rents would lead to overallocation of land to transportation in our square city as in the Solow Vickrey long narrow city, the tendency towards excessive road-building is stronger near the city boundaries than at the city center in our two-dimensional case, contrary to the conclusion drawn from the Solow Vickrey model.
Analysis of mine ventilation networks using nonlinear programming techniques

Solving ventilation networks of natural air splitting is a classical problem in mine ventilation. A common approach to this problem is to formulate it based on Kirchhoff's voltage and current laws and obtain the solution by an iterative technique known as the Hardy Cross method. In this paper, it is shown that the problem can be formulated and analysed as an unconstrained optimization (minimization) problem. The computational experience with the method of conjugate gradients is also discussed.
Active Axisymmetric Optical Membranes

An active optical membrane is modeled as a laminate of in∞atable structural material and piezo-polymer sheets. Etching the electrode surfaces of each layer allows for selective actuation areas which can be used to independently control surface regions. Using the Method of Integral Multiple Scales, a nonlinear one-dimensional model is initially presented. Expanding on this model, an axisymmetric active membrane is then studied. Results for both static and dynamic formulations are presented and indicate such a laminate can be efiective.
Siftables: towards sensor network user interfaces

This paper outlines Siftables, a novel platform that applies technology and methodology from wireless sensor networks to tangible user interfaces in order to yield new possibilities for human-computer interaction. Siftables are compact devices with sensing, graphical display, and wireless communication. They can be physically manipulated as a group to interact with digital information and media. We discuss the unique affordances that a sensor network user interface (SNUI) such as Siftables provides, as well as the resulting directness between the physical interface and the data being manipulated. We conclude with a description of some gestural language primitives that we are currently prototyping with Siftables.
Dynamical conceptual models of upper-level mobile trough formation: comparison and application

While the formation of upper-level mobile troughs has received little observational attention, a variety of theories have been proposed to explain the genesis and intensification of mobile troughs. For purposes of intercomparison and qualitative application to observed cases, these theories are described in terms of the generation of waves along the tropopause potential vorticity discontinuity. These models are then tested on a case of mobile trough formation which occurred on 19–20 April 1991 and which was poorly forecasted by operational models. The ridge-trough system is found to have been produced primarily by Rossby wave propagation along the tropopause from a newly-developed cutoff cyclone located to the west. Both vertical and horizontal propagation contributed to the development. Another mechanism which appeared to have a positive effect was superposition due to vertical shear and horizontal deformation. A vorticity maximum within the newly-formed trough was amplified and advected southeastward by the developing larger-scale ridge/trough system and later participated in a surface cyclogenesis event. DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0870.1995.00114.x
Induction and immunolocalization of manganese superoxide dismutase in acute acetic acid-induced colitis in the rat

Abstract Background & Aims: Oxygen radicals and reactive oxygen species play an important role in inflammatory episodes in the bowel. Nonetheless, little is known about the regulation of colonic superoxide dismutases and key antioxidant enzymes with cytoprotective and radical detoxifying properties. The aim of this study was to examine the regulation of manganese superoxide dismutase (SOD) in acute acetic acid-induced colitis. Methods: Colitis was induced in adult rats by the rectal administration of 5% acetic acid. Total RNA and protein were isolated from the inflamed colon from 1 to 24 hours after the induction of colitis. MnSOD messenger RNA and protein levels were evaluated by Northern and Western analyses, respectively. MnSOD protein was localized in cross sections of the colon by immunocytochemistry. Results: MnSOD messenger RNA levels showed a rapid 14–96-fold induction in response to acetic acid administration. Western analysis showed a 22–49-fold induction in MnSOD protein levels. Immunocytochemistry showed induction of MnSOD protein, specifically in smooth muscle cells, epithelial cells at the base of the glands, and myenteric plexus neurons. Conclusions: MnSOD messenger RNA and protein levels are rapidly induced following the inflammatory insult, implicating a role for MnSOD in the acute phase of colonic inflammation. We suggest that induction of MnSOD in specific cell types may have a cytoprotective function.
The kinetics of polymer decomposition through thermogravimetric analysis

Abstract This study introduces a new method (the ratio method) of analyzing thermograms for which the power-model kinetic equation is assumed to hold. This method can be used to determine the kinetic parameters from a single thermogram obtained by decomposing a material at a constant heating rate. In this paper, the ratio method, the maximum-point method, and the method of Freeman and Carroll are compared regarding their respective accuracy and ease of interpreting the kinetics of thermal decomposition.
Cerebrospinal fluid matrix metalloproteinases are elevated in cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy and correlate with MRI severity and neurologic dysfunction.

Background X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy results from mutations in the ABCD1 gene disrupting the metabolism of very-long-chain fatty acids. The most serious form of ALD, cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy (cALD), causes neuroinflammation and demyelination. Neuroimaging in cALD shows inflammatory changes and indicates blood-brain-barrier (BBB) disruption. We hypothesize that disruption may occur through the degradation of the extracellular matrix defining the BBB by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). MMPs have not been evaluated in the setting of cALD.
Constructing non-congruence subgroups of flexible hyperbolic 3-manifold groups

We give an explicit construction for non-congruence subgroups in the fundamental group of a flexible hyperbolic 3-manifold.
Off diagonal long range order, oblique confinement, and the fractional quantum Hall effect

We demonstrate the existence of a novel type of off-diagonal long-range order in the fractional-quantum-Hall-effect (FQHE) ground state. This is revealed for the case of fractional filling factor \ensuremath{\nu}=1/m by application of Wilczek's ``anyon'' gauge transformation to attach m quantized flux tubes to each particle. The binding of the zeros of the wave function to the particles in the FQHE is a (2+1)-dimensional analog of oblique confinement in which a condensation occurs, not of ordinary particles, but rather of composite objects consisting of particles and gauge flux tubes.
Alternative approaches for investigating contingency-based organizational predictions in personal selling

Abstract The focus of this paper is on presenting three alternative contingency-based approaches for investigating organizational issues in personal selling. The key concepts, conceptual and methodological underpinnings, typical propositions, and empirical tests applicable to each approach are discussed by drawing upon existing literature in sales management, marketing and organizational behavior. The approaches are empirically illustrated by examining the impact of contextual factors on the structure and sales efficiency of 47 sales branches drom a diverse set of brokerage firms. The empirical application provides insights as to how the propositions underlying each of the three approaches can be tested. The paper concludes with a discussion of theoretical and managerial implications of using these approaches for examining sales organization design issues.
Involvement of Dendritic Cell Subsets in the Induction of Oral Tolerance and Immunity

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a central role in the generation of immune responses in the intestine. DCs induce differentiation and tolerance of T cells, and may have a direct role in B cell switching to IgA. Four distinct subsets of CD11c(+) DCs are present in murine Peyer's patches, which represent primary sites for the induction of mucosal T and B cell responses. Studies suggest that CD11b(+) DCs or plasmacytoid DCs may be specialized for the induction of regulatory T cells, and CD8alpha(+) DCs for the induction of clonal deletion in response to soluble oral antigen, while all DC subsets (including CD8alpha(-)/CD11b(-) DCs) may be involved in responses to pathogens. We are currently using reovirus type-1 Lang (TIL) to explore the role of DC populations in mucosal immunity in vivo, as oral administration of live T1L to mice induces strong mucosal and systemic antiviral immune responses, whereas oral administration of inactivated T1L results in tolerance to viral proteins. We found that primary infection with T1L occurs in epithelial cells of the PP follicle-associated epithelium, but that CD8alpha(-)/CD11b(-) DCs in the subepithelial dome region (SED) are loaded with T1L antigens in the absence of active DC infection. At least a portion of this antigen is associated with cell fragments from apoptotic epithelial cells, demonstrating that SED DCs cross-present antigens from apoptotic epithelial cells. In vitro, in contrast to exposure to several TLR-ligands or anti-CD40, exposure to T1L does not activate DCs to mature or to produce cytokines, despite clear loading of the DCs with viral antigens. These data suggest that T1L is taken up by a "silent" receptor on DCs, and that the induction of immunity to T1L is dependent on signals from non-DCs following active viral infection that induce DC maturation. Thus, the decision between tolerance and immunity to inactive and live virus, respectively, likely depends on whether there is active infection of epithelial cells by T1L, which results in the elaboration of molecules, such as cytokines, that induce DC maturation.