cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Near-infrared fiber optics gas sensor for remote sensing of CH4 gas in coal mines

In this paper, a particular equipment, one-channel optical-fiber-based methane gas real-time monitoring system, will be demonstrated. The system is designed especially for the mining complexes and residential area. A long-distance silica fiber link with a self-design optical gas sensor head have been employed in conjunction with a wavelength-tunable InGaAsP DFB laser diode at 1.64μm (around R(6) absorption peak of methane)1 to realize highly sensitive remote interrogation of CH4. By wavelength modulation with the DFB laser diode and a self-design processing circuit, sensitivities of less than 0.1 % (volume) have been achieved with the response time of less than 5 seconds.
Solution to the Boltzmann equation for layered systems for current perpendicular to the planes

Present theories of giant magnetoresistance (GMR) for current perpendicular to the planes (CPP) are based on an extremely restricted solution to the Boltzmann equation that assumes a single free electron band structure for all layers and all spin channels. Within this model only the scattering rate changes from one layer to the next. This model leads to the remarkable result that the resistance of a layered material is simply the sum of the resistances of each layer. We present a solution to the Boltzmann equation for CPP for the case in which the electronic structure can be different for different layers. The problem of matching boundary conditions between layers is much more complicated than in the current in the planes (CIP) geometry because it is necessary to include the scattering-in term of the Boltzmann equation even for the case of isotropic scattering. This term couples different values of the momentum parallel to the planes. When the electronic structure is different in different layers there is...
RNA Metabolism During Light-Induced Chloroplast Development in Euglena

Methods are described which provide good recoveries of non-degraded chloroplast and non-chloroplast RNAs from Euglena gracilis var. bacillaris. These have been characterized by comparing the RNA from W 3 BUL (an aplastidic mutant of Euglena ), with that of wild-type cells which have been resolved into chloroplast and non-chloroplast fractions. Using E. coli RNA as a standard, the RNAs from W 3 BUL and from the non-chloroplast fraction of green cells exhibit optical density peaks, upon sucrose gradient centrifugation, at 4S, 10S, and 19S. The chloroplast fraction exhibits optical density peaks at 19S and 14S with the 19S component predominating. Application of various techniques for the separation of RNAs to the problem of separating the chloroplast and non-chloroplast RNAs, without prior separation of the organelle, have not proven successful. 32 P i is readily incorporated into RNA by cells undergoing light-induced chloroplast development, and fractionation at the end of development reveals that although chloroplast RNAs have a higher specific activity, the other RNAs of the cells are significantly labeled as well. The succession of labeling patterns of total cellular RNA as light-induced chloroplast development proceeds are displayed and reveal that all RNA species mentioned above eventually become labeled. In contrast, cells kept in darkness during this period incorporate little 32 P i into any RNA fraction. In addition, a heavy RNA component, designated as 28S, while representing a negligible fraction of the total RNA, becomes significantly labeled during the first 24 hours of illumination. While there is light stimulated uptake of 32 P i into the cells, this uptake is never limiting in the light or dark, for RNA labeling. On the basis of these findings, we suggest that extensive activation of non-chloroplast RNA labeling during chloroplast development is the result of the activation of the cellular synthetic machinery external to the chloroplast necessary to provide metabolic precursors for plastid development. Thus the plastid is viewed as an auxotrophic resident within the cell during development. Other possibilities for interaction at this and other levels are also discussed.
Interleukin-1α and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNFα) Inhibit Growth and Induce TNF Messenger RNA in MCF-7 Human Breast Cancer Cells

We studied the effects of interleukin-1α (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF), alone and in combination, on MCF-7 breast cancer cells to determine whether these cytokines alter cell growth, TNF gene expresssion, and TNF secretion. We found that IL-1 alone and TNF alone inhibited cell growth in a dosedependent manner. Each cytokine arrested growth in the Go/G1 phase of the cell cycle, with maximum growth inhibition at 1000 U/ml (P < 0.05) and 100 U/ml (P < 0.01), respectively. However, the combination of these two cytokines did not result in greater growth inhibition or a greater percentage of cells arrested in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle compared with each cytokine alone. We examined the effect of exogenous IL-1 and TNF on TNF gene expression by Northern blot analysis. In the absence of any cytokine, these cells do not express TNF mRNA. Exposure to IL-1 (1000 U/ml) induced TNF mRNA at 3 h; however, mRNA levels diminished thereafter to barely detectable levels by 24 h. Exposure to TNF (1000 U/ml)...
A flexible system to capture sample vials in a storage box – the box vial scanner

Tracking sample vials in a research environment is a critical task and doing so efficiently can have a large impact on productivity, especially in high volume laboratories. There are several challenges to automating the capture process, including the variety of containers used to store samples. We developed a fast and robust system to capture the location of sample vials being placed in storage that allows the laboratories the flexibility to use sample containers of varying dimensions. With a single scan, this device captures the box identifier, the vial identifier and the location of each vial within a freezer storage box. The sample vials are tracked through a barcode label affixed to the cap while the boxes are tracked by a barcode label on the side of the box. Scanning units are placed at the point of use and forward data to a sever application for processing the scanned data. Scanning units consist of an industrial barcode reader mounted in a fixture positioning the box for scanning and providing lighting during the scan. The server application transforms the scan data into a list of storage locations holding vial identifiers. The list is then transferred to the laboratory database. The box vial scanner captures the IDs and location information for an entire box of sample vials into the laboratory database in a single scan. The system accommodates a wide variety of vials sizes by inserting risers under the sample box and a variety of storage box layouts are supported via the processing algorithm on the server.
Nonlinear buckling and snap-over of a two-member frame

Abstract A study is made of the buckling behavior of a two-member frame, allowing for large rotations in both members. Special algorithms are devised to solve the nonlinear boundary-value problem that arises, and solutions obtained on a digital computer are plotted and compared with linearized results. Stable and unstable equilibrium configurations are distinguished, and the circumstances under which the frame snaps over onto its side are described.
Nuclear data sheets for A = 89

Abstract The 1961 version of Nuclear Data Sheets for A = 89 and the 1970 Midstream Evaluation, A = 89 [M. W. Johns, J. Y. Park, S. M. Shafroth, D. M. Van Patter, and K. Way, Nuclear Data Tables 8, 373 (1970)], have been revised on the basis of experimental data received prior to August 1, 1975. Results from approximately 150 papers and communications chosen from the extensive literature for this A-chain have been included in the present evaluation. Numerous additional references dealing wtih reaction mechanism studies and nuclear structure theory are not included in this compilation, but are available upon request from the Nuclear Data Project. Data on nine A = 89 nuclei are presented. Only the half-lives for 89Se and 89Br have been determined. The decay schemes for 89Kr and 89Rb appear to be well established. The decay scheme for 89Sr is particularly simple, but the intensity for the single γ-ray in the decay is not well known. Many spin assignments have been made for levels in 89Sr, 89Y, and 89Zr from a variety of decay and reaction studies. The decay schemes for low-spin and high-spin isomers in both 89Zr and 89Nb appear to be well established, but the energy ordering of the two isomers in 89Nb is not known. On the basis of recent results, it appears that the previously claimed isotope 89Mo has not yet been observed.
Programs as proofs: a synopsis

Abstract Programs are like constructive proofs of their specifications. This analogy is a precise equivalence for certain classes of programs. The connection between formal logic and programs is a foundation for programming methodology superior to that usually adopted. Moreover this equivalence suggests programming languages which are far richer than all others currently in use. These claims are established in this paper introducing parts of the PL/CV programming logics as a source of precision and examples.
Measuring Teachers’ Knowledge About Early Language and Literacy: Practical Implications and Considerations

This study examined 1 tool for evaluating Head Start teachers’ knowledge about early language and literacy. Results indicated that teachers varied in their knowledge. Teachers with more knowledge had more education, as did teachers who received language and literacy professional development. Teachers with greater knowledge also demonstrated higher quality practices. Findings imply that teacher knowledge could be an important pathway through which education and training affect teacher practice.
Prediction of corrosion initiation in reinforced concrete members subjected to environmental stressors: A finite‐element framework

Abstract To study the corrosion of reinforced concrete members subjected to various exposure conditions, a finite-element framework is developed. This framework evaluates the effects of the most critical parameters that may expedite or slow down the corrosion process. Some of these parameters, such as concrete properties and diffusion characteristics, are categorized as internal parameters. In contrast, the environmental parameters, such as ambient temperature, relative humidity, and concentration of carbon dioxide or chloride ions, are considered as external parameters. Using detailed three-dimensional finite-element models, the influential parameters are examined as individual physical environments. The analyses of these environments are based on the concept of transient thermal analysis with appropriate modifications. The novelty of the proposed framework is to consider the nonlinear time-dependent characteristics of the involved parameters along with their mutual interactions. This will result in a more realistic estimation of the extent of degradation over the service life of a structure.
SU-FF-351-01: Science Council Open Forum

The purpose of this meeting is to allow AAPM members to bring suggestions and comments to Science Council members, and Science Council is interested in hearing the views of AAPM members pertaining to science. This meeting has no agenda and no presentation will be made; the goal is simply to provide a channel for communication. AAPM members interested in sharing their views on science, science policy, or AAPM governance in regards to science are welcome to attend.
GRIP: A problem-oriented language

Abstract GRIP (GeneRal Interactive Processor) is a problem-oriented language which establishes a powerful and convenient communication linkage between engineer and computer. GRIP is implemented in a set of programs which provide its capabilities for command translation, on-line programming and small database management. The GRIP application program, written using the grammer of the language, provides access to one or more task specific programs and to utility resources such as numerical methods and interactive graphics packages. This paper describes the structure and function of GRIP applications which support chemical engineering education and research activities.
Statistical power and sea turtle nesting beach surveys: How long and when?

Identifying long-term population trends is essential for the conservation of species of concern. With money and personnel often in short supply, the success of a monitoring program to provide an estimate of population trend requires an efficient survey design that can detect biologically important changes within some prescribed budgetary framework. In this paper we illustrate how costs can be reduced while maintaining an efficient design using a nesting beach survey of female hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) in the Eastern Caribbean as a specific example. We compared the statistical power of the current, intensive protocol with those of shorter duration and differing start date to generate general guidelines on sampling. Counts of individual turtles from 1987-2003 were analyzed using Poisson log-linear regression and models with both fixed and random effects describing the temporal variability were explored. We estimate that the current 20 week saturation-tagging survey design could detect a 3% per annum growth with acceptable statistical power (>0.8) in less than 14 years. However, by changing the current survey start date and counting for only 10 weeks, it is possible to detect similar trends with little loss of power while reducing monitoring costs by 25-50%. Our analyses indicate that the statistical power of surveys for hawksbills is influenced by the timing and duration of the survey because of their effect on the proportion of the annual number of nesting females that the survey captures. This simplifies estimating the power of a prospective survey program.
Seven hole probe measurement of leading edge vortex flows

This paper discusses the use of a seven-hole probe on measurements of leading edge vortices of highly sweep delta wing planforms. Intrusive probe data taken with the pressure probe were compared with nonintrusive measurements made with laser Doppler anemometry system. In addition to probe size, the natural position of breakdown and the sweep angle of the wing are also factors in determining sensitivity of the flow to probe interference. At low angles of attach vortex breakdown does not occur in the vicinity of the model and the seven hole probe was found to yield reasonably accurate measurements. When the angle of attack of the model was increased so that vortex breakdown was near the trailing edge, introducing the probe over the wing would cause the breakdown position to move ahead of the probe. However, when breakdown naturally occurred ahead of the mid-chord of the wing the vortices were found to be less sensitive to a probe placed behind the breakdown point. Vortex breakdown on a lower swept wing is found to be more sensitive to interference. Near the breakdown region, seven hole probe measurement is less accurate due to a combination of probe interference and flow reversal.
Functional Anatomy of Spontaneous Seizures in a Rat Model of Limbic Epilepsy

Summary: Purpose: The substrate of seizure initiation in partial epilepsy is not well understood. Although many studies imply a focus that is will localized to a single structure, some information suggests that seizures arise regionally with simultaneous or near-simultaneous onset at several separate sites. To determine the physiological pattern of seizure onset, recordings were made of spontaneous seizures from multiple limbic structures in a rat model of limbic epilepsy. Methods: Seventeen rats with chronic spontaneous limbic seizures that occurred after an episode of electrical hippocampal stimulation-induced status epilepticus (SE) underwent chronic recording of seizures with a minimum of four electrodes placed bilaterally in the midventral hippocampus and either the amygdala or piriform cortex. As many as 15 of the first recorded spontaneous seizures (mean of 12 seizures, range 2-15) was evaluated for each animal with regard to pattern of seizure onset (focal hippocampal, focal nonhippocampal, or diffuse). The results were evaluated for number of seizure patterns displayed by each animal and the potential change in the pattern of onset with successive seizures (from the first to the fifteenth). Results: In all, 210 seizures were evaluated, beginning 1 week after SE and with monitoring lasting G 18 weeks (mean recording duration 6 weeks) to record a maximum of 15 seizures for each animal. Overall, 54% of the seizures were of diffuse onset, 25% were of nonhippocampal onset, and 21% were of hippocampal onset. Eight of the 17 (47%) animals had seizures with all three patterns of onset. Evaluation of the evolution of the pattern of onset from the first to the fifteenth seizure recorded for the animals showed a clear tendency for the later seizures to have diffuse onsets (regression analysis r = 0.737, p < 0.002). Qualitative histologic analysis demonstrated neuronal loss in the recorded regions. Conclusions: These findings indicate that the epileptogenic zone is broad in this model of limbic “focal” epilepsy and suggest that the substrate for seizure generation is distributed over several structures. Key Words: Epilepsy-Functional anatomy-Limbic seizures-Animal models.
Isotopic Structure of Iridium

FROM an examination of the hyperfine structure of certain lines of the arc spectrum of iridium, Prof. B. Venkatesachar and L. Sibaiya1 have recently concluded that iridium must have two isotopes, and give reasons for assuming the mass numbers to be 191 and 193. I have recently verified this conclusion by a direct mass-analysis of the iridium ions formed by a high-frequency spark between electrodes made of platinum-iridium alloy.
Electrical Conductivity of Neutron Star Matter

THE time for the magnetic field of a neutron star to decay by ohmic dissipation plays an important part in theories of pulsars1–3. The decay time for the lowest mode in a spherical star of radius R and of constant electrical conductivity σ is given by4,5 Previous estimates3 of σ(≈6×1022 s−1) lead to values of τD ≈ 4 × 106 yr for R = 10 km. This time is relatively short on the evolutionary time scale of pulsars. We show below that σ is at least six orders of magnitude greater than the estimate quoted above. Consequently τD is greater than the age of the universe, and flux decay in neutron stars is therefore completely negligible.
Responding to Rejected Requests: Persistence and Response Type as Functions of Obstacles to Compliance

This study examines persons' reactions when encountering refusals of requests. Three different obstacle types-unwillingness, imposition, and inability-are discussed as determinants ofpersistence. Linguistic moves following a refusal are then investigated to understand how obstacles expressed in a refusal influence the type of response to refusal. Results suggest that intimate requesters indicate a greater desire to persist when confronted by unwillingness obstacles than by inability obstacles. Requesters encountering unwillingness obstacles also tend to be less likely to forgive reluctant request targets and more likely to inquire about the basis for refusal and to produce additional persuasive messages than those encountering inability obstacles. These differences may influence both the types of obstacles that refusers choose to express and the relationship between requester and rejector after refusal.
A fault constitutive relation accounting for thermal pressurization of pore fluid

[1] The heat generated in a slip zone during an earthquake can raise fluid pressure and thereby reduce frictional resistance to slip. The amount of fluid pressure rise depends on the associated fluid flow. The heat generated at a given time produces fluid pressure that decreases inversely with the square root of hydraulic diffusivity times the elapsed time. If the slip velocity function is crack-like, there is a prompt fluid pressure rise at the onset of slip, followed by a slower increase. The stress drop associated with the prompt fluid pressure rise increases with rupture propagation distance. The threshold propagation distance at which thermally induced stress drop starts to dominate over frictionally induced stress drop is proportional to hydraulic diffusivity. If hydraulic diffusivity is 0.02 m2/s, estimated from borehole samples of fault zone material, the threshold propagation distance is 300 m. The stress wave in an earthquake will induce an unknown amount of dilatancy and will increase hydraulic diffusivity, both of which will lessen the fluid pressure effect. Nevertheless, if hydraulic diffusivity is no more than two orders of magnitude larger than the laboratory value, then stress drop is complete in large earthquakes.
Mating behavior in the black hamlet — gamete trading or egg trading?

The black hamlet (Hypoplectrus nigricans, Serranidae) is a simultaneous hermaphrodite, like many other serranines. It has external fertilization and planktonic eggs and engages in a kind of reciprocal spawning consisting of three components: (1) The clutch is divided into sequentially spawned parcels. (2) Partners regularly alternate release of parcels in a spawning bout. (3) Courtship is associated with the female spawning role. Two hypotheses have been proposed to account for this pattern. The egg trading hypothesis states that the pattern results from competition for fertilizations and assumes that reproductive success (RS) as a male is limited by access to eggs and that female RS is not limited by access to sperm. The gamete trading hypothesis states that the pattern results from eggs being at substantial risk of not being fertilized — i.e. female RS is limited by access to sperm. An analysis was performed of data from the black hamlet and three other serranines to determine whether significant sperm limitation occurs. The evidence fails to support the hypothesis that access to sperm limits female RS. Unspawned eggs were not found in fish collected outside the spawning period, but fish without eggs always had milt (sperm). The percentage of eggs fertilized did not decrease over the course of a spawning bout. There was also a slight positive correlation between the number of eggs released in a spawning and the percentage that were fertilized, and serranines that divide the clutch into parcels do not tend to have higher fecundities than those that do not. The gamete trading hypothesis can therefore be rejected for H. nigricans.
Monte Carlo calculations of triton and 4He nuclei with the Reid potential

Abstract A Monte Carlo method is developed to calculate the binding energy and density distribution of the 3 H and 4 He nuclei for a variational wave function written as a symmetrized product of correlation operators. The upper bounds obtained with the Reid potential are −6.86±0.08 and −22.9±0.5 MeV respectively. The Coulomb interaction in 4 He is ignored. The calculated density distributions have reasonable radii, but they do not show any dip at the center.
Factors which influence the latent image in autoradiography.

Sections treated with N-ethyl-maleim'ide, a sulfhydryl blocking reagent, exhibit similar grain counts over nonradioactive and S-labeled tissues. This reveals that no chemo-graphic effects were produced by sulfhydryl groups in tissues fixed and prepared in the manner described. It was noted, however, that background count over tissue sections is consistently tower than over adjacent him, indicating perhaps the existence of substances in tissues which interfere with the production of the latent image. These effects have been eliminated by coating the tissues with celloidin. Celloidin coating can be used for most emitters including S but not for tritium. A special method for tritium, not involving celloidin coating is given.
Local control and function after twice-a-day radiotherapy for Ewing's sarcoma of bone.

Abstract Between February 1982 and December 1987, 39 patients with Ewing's Sarcoma of bone have been treated at the University of Florida with a twice-a-day radiotherapy regimen to their primary lesion, 35 with radiation alone and 4 with a combination of radiation and surgery. Although three separate systemic regimens were used (standard risk, 1982–1987 [SR-1]; high-risk, 1982–1984 [HR-2]; and high-risk, 1985–1987 [HR-3]), the radiotherapy regimen remained constant through the years of the study. Those patients whose soft-tissue mass completely regressed after induction chemotherapy received 5040 cGy (as did patients with no soft-tissue mass at diagnosis), those who had 50% or greater resolution of the soft-tissue mass received 5520 cGy, and those who had less than 50% regression of the soft-tissue mass or progressive disease during induction chemotherapy received 6000 cGy. All patients were treated with 120 cGy twice a day and a 6-hr separation between fractions. Thirteen patients also received 800 cGy of total body radiotherapy (TBI) 1 to 3 months after local radiotherapy as part of their systemic treatment. In the 33 patients treated with radiotherapy alone who were eligible for local control analysis, there have been three local failures to date, all within the first 21 months after diagnosis. The 5-year local control rate was 88% for SR-1, 80% for HR-2, and 92% for HR-3. Local control was not related to total dose, but by design, the patients with the largest lesions and the poorest response to chemotherapy had the highest doses. In the 20 patients presenting with extremity primary lesions, there have been no pathologic fractures. In patients evaluated for limb function, the late effects have been minimal. The twice-a-day regimen used appears to produce good local control rates with improved long-term function as compared with once-a-day regimens.
GM-CSF Treatment of a Patient in Myasthenic Crisis: Clinical Outcome and Effects on Regulatory T Cells (Tregs) (S35.005)

Objective: We describe a 77-year-old man with a prolonged myasthenic crisis refractory to conventional immunomodulatory treatments who was treated with GM-CSF and report the subsequent clinical course and the effects of treatment on circulating Treg phenotype and function. Background Treatment of experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis with GM-CSF has been shown to suppress anti-AChR immune responses, and expand Foxp3 + Tregs with an enhanced ability to selectively suppress AChR-induced T cell proliferation. Design/Methods: The patient9s blood was drawn and PBMCs were isolated and collected. Tcell subsets were sorted and the ability of Tregs (CD4 + CD25 hi CD127 low cells) to suppress the proliferation of responder T cells was assessed by a CFSE-based co-culture assay and compared to control subjects. Results: Prior to treatment with GM-CSF the patient9s isolated Tregs demonstrated diminished expression of FoxP3. After treatment there was an increase in the numbers of Foxp3-expressing CD4 + cells and an enhanced intensity of Foxp3 expression. A relative defect in the patient9s Treg suppressive capacity also improved after treatment. No significant T cell proliferation was seen in response to AChR peptide in control subjects, while T cells derived from the patient exhibited a proliferative response which was not suppressed by the addition of Tregs prior to treatment with GM-CSF, but improved in response to GM-CSF treatment. Conclusions: Clinical improvement in this case was associated with enhanced Treg function as demonstrated by serial in vitro T cell proliferation/suppression assays. The observed effects on Tregs are consistent with the reported immune modulatory effects of GM-CSF. Although limited to a single patient, these novel observations combined with our preclinical data argue that the effects of GM-CSF in MG should be studied in a clinical trial setting. Furthermore, our results may provide insight into the role of Tregs in MG, and may suggest the possibility of monitoring Treg function/phenotype as a biomarker of treatment response in MG. Supported by: NIH, MDA. Disclosure: Dr. Rowin has nothing to disclose. Dr. Muthusamy has nothing to disclose. Dr. Arhebamen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sheng has nothing to disclose. Dr. Prabhakar has received personal compensation for activities with Gliknik Inc. as a consultant.Dr. Prabhakar has received research support from NIH. Dr. Meriggioli has received personal compensation for activities with Athena Diagnostics, Talecris Biotherapeutics, Gliknik, and Celegene Corporation. Dr. Meriggioli receives patent payments for a patent on bispecific antibody coated dendritic cells. Dr. Meriggioli has received research support from the NIH/NINDS and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Unconventional Sensor Exploitation Techniques

Webster defines technique as "the manner of performance with respect to mechanical features or formal requirements." Unconventional sensors have impacted both the mechanical data handling of imagery and the formal requirements for exploiting each nonconventional sensor, for military purposes. New exploitation techniques incorporating digital processing, displays, and associated hardware development have demonstrated unconventional sensor information content comparable to what can be derived by the interpreter with the conventional light table and viewing optics. The optimal mix of optical and digital processing in the future will be governed by two major factors 1) the best method of extracting information from a given imaging sensor, i.e. radar, infrared or electro-optical, which in turn, is based upon ease of manipulation, cost and practicality and 2) the requirement for information in near-real-time.
Serological evidence confirming the assignment of phaseolus aureus and P. mungo to the genus vigna

Abstract Endopeptidase activity was detected in extracts of cotyledons of 11 species of Vigna and Phaseolus Antibodies against the purified protease isolated from the cotyledons of 5-day-old P.aureus seedlings inhibited the activity of that enzyme in crude extracts of cotyledons. A similar inhibition was obtained with P. mungo , P. adenanthus and 4 species of Vigna , while there was no inhibition of endopeptidase activity in extracts of cotyledons of 4 species of Phaseolus . Immunodiffusion tests proved that the protease of Vigna is distinct from that of Phaseolus . The evidence supports the reassignment of P. aureus and P. mungo to the genus Vigna and indicates that the names Vigna radiata and Vigna mungo are more appropriate than P. aureus and P. mungo for green gram and black gram respectively.
A Maximum Entropy Method for Expert System Construction

We consider the maximum entropy method of expert system construction. We show that the construction of the expert system is equivalent to the minimization of a convex function in as many dimensions as there were pieces of knowledge supplied the system. We show that in the case where the knowledge presented the system is self-contradictory, the minimization of this function creates an expert system for a set of constraints that is consistent and ‘close’ to the original inconsistent constraints. Monte Carlo methods for minimizing the function are discussed, and illustrated by computer experiment. One of the examples given suggests an approach to the problem of invariant optical character recognition.
Lagrangian flow patterns north of Cape Hatteras using near-surface drifters

Abstract Lagrangian flow patterns in the vicinity of Cape Hatteras are examined using the tracks of 42 drifters drogued at 10 m depth and initially deployed over Georges Bank. The drifters predominantly move southwestward over the continental shelf and slope. North of Cape Hatteras, the drifters become entrained in the Gulf Stream and are carried eastward into the central Atlantic Ocean. There are two types of entrainment, abrupt and gradual. The first is characterized by a rapid change in drifter speed and an abrupt shift in drifter direction to the east. During such entrainment events, the radius of curvature of the drifter track is less than 30 km. The second type of entrainment is characterized by a gradual change in drifter direction with little change in speed. The radius of curvature of drifter tracks during such entrainment events is large (typically 50 km). The latter type occurs more frequently in summer and fall, when stratification is stronger. The drifter tracks further reveal that entrainment from the shelfbreak front/slope water system into the Gulf Stream may occur a significant distance north of Cape Hatteras, occasionally as far north as 38 °N, 200 km north of Cape Hatteras. Only two drifter tracks extend along the shelf past Diamond Shoals into the South Atlantic Bight. Four drifters are ejected from the Gulf Stream and recirculate over the slope. The observed time scale of recirculation ranges over 1–3 months. These results suggest that there are a variety of processes that determine the maximum southward penetration of Mid-Atlantic Bight shelf water before entrainment into the Gulf Stream as well as the cross-slope speed of entrainment.
Laparoscopic surgical team stress measures during randomized controlled trials of 4-port vs. Single incision cholecystecomies: A pilot study

The Institute of Medicine lists investigations of the comparative effectiveness for minimally invasive surgical procedures as a research priority. As new minimally invasive procedures are developed, comparisons of the resulting workload contribute valuable information about the impact of the new procedures. Recent reports suggest that surgeon workload can influence patient outcomes. Measurements of stress and fatigue for the surgical team participating in a randomized NIH supported trial of single incision versus traditional laparoscopic cholecystectomy were obtained. These stress measures showed that the SURG-TLX was sensitive to the difficulty of the surgery. The SURG-TLX and a surgical difficulty score was obtained from the surgical team for 16 laparoscopic surgeries by surgical approach (8 SILC and 8 4-port) showed that for this small sample size, there were no statistically significant differences in length of surgery, degree of difficulty, nor patient considerations such as post-operative pain score...
The State, Popular Participation, and the Voluntary Sector

Abstract A key determinant in the development contribution of nongovernment organizations (NGOs) is the relationship between NGOs and the state. NGOs may run parallel activities; they may play oppositional roles; or they may represent weaker members of society, organizing them to become more influential in decision making and resource allocation. This “civil society” function entails moving from a “supply side” approach, concentrating on project delivery, to a “demand side” emphasis, helping communities articulate their concerns and participate in development processes. Donors can use the policy dialogue to encourage governments to foster a more enabling environment for NGO activities.
Microliter Sample Introduction for ICP-AES

A simple Flow Injection/Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry system is described. The analytical performance, in terms of linearity, precision, and detection limits, was investigated for both aqueous and organic solvents. Acceptable detection limits were obtained with the use of approximately one-hundreth of the minimum sample volume required for continuous aspiration. Some deterioration of detection limits, however, was observed. The suitability of this system to biological samples was demonstrated by the analysis of iron- and cobalt-rubredoxins and National Bureau of Standards' Bovine Liver standard reference material.
Thermodynamics: A Riemannian geometric model

By including the theory of fluctuations in the axioms of thermodynamics it is shown that thermodynamic systems can be represented by Riemannian manifolds. Of special interest is the curvature of these manifolds which, for pure fluids, is associated with effective interparticle interaction strength by means of a general thermodynamic "interaction hypothesis." This interpretation of curvature appears to be consistent with hyperscaling and two-scale-factor universality. The Riemannian geometric model is a new attempt to extract information from the axioms of thermodynamics.
The Incidence Of Macular Pucker After Retinal Detachment Surgery

In a study of 63 cases of macular pucker among 857 patients who underwent retinal detachment repair, we isolated several statistically significant risk factors: preoperative vision of less than 6/15 (20/50); preoperative presence of rolled edges, starfolds, or equatorial ridges; re-operations; choroidal hemorrhage; and age past 30 years. We were unable to confirm the risk associated with vitreous loss, vitreous hemorrhage, and degeneration. Results suggested that macular pucker after detachment surgery is produced by a membrane similar in origin to those causing other forms of periretinal proliferation.
Kindergarten children can be taught to detect lexical ambiguities

This study investigates the development of metalinguistic skills, particularly ambiguity detection, and whether training accelerates this development for prereaders in kindergarten (5;5-6;6). It is the first to compare homophone detection with lexically ambiguous sentence detection in which the same homophones appear. The experimental group received ambiguity detection training; the control group received vocabulary training. Results showed that there is a spontaneous development of homophone detection abilities at the end of kindergarten, and training may accelerate this trajectory. The development of lexical ambiguity detection is not apparent in kindergarteners. However, explicit training improves this trajectory significantly. The knowledge of both meanings of a homophone is not sufficient to report both meanings of a sentence that contains that homophone. We propose that detecting the dual meanings of an ambiguous sentence involves sentence processing operations and an ability to think flexibly about language that may be enhanced with training.
Instructional computing in American nursing programs

This paper summarizes more than a decade of progress on computing in nursing education and reports the results of a two-phase study of instructional computing in American nursing programs. The study reveals an enormous range of activity in nursing education, the importance of various barriers to growth and use of computers and the perceptions of deans and directors of potential remedies and the feasibility of each.
Adoption of online health management tools among healthy older adults: An exploratory study.

As the population ages and chronic diseases abound, overburdened healthcare systems will increasingly require individuals to manage their own health. Online health management tools, quickly increasing in popularity, have the potential to diminish or even replace in-person contact with health professionals, but overall efficacy and usage trends are unknown. The current study explored perceptions and usage patterns among users of online health management tools, and identified barriers and barrier-breakers among non-users. An online survey was completed by 169 computer users (aged 50+). Analyses revealed that a sizable minority (37%) of participants use online health management tools and most users (89%) are satisfied with these tools, but a limited range of tools are being used and usage occurs in relatively limited domains. Improved awareness and education for online health management tools could enhance people’s abilities to remain at home as they age, reducing the financial burden on formal assistance pr...
The sensitive structure of partially premixed methane-air vs. air counterflow flames

Detailed numerical calculations, which are supported experimentally, are used to investigate the sensitivity of flame structure to fuel premixedness and overall strain rate. The study covers a wide range of fuel premixedness—from =1.3 to =2.0, plus a pure diffusion flame—over a wide range of strain rates—from moderate to near extinction—in methane-air vs. air counterflow flames. The flames are observed to change drastically in structure and character—from a single, merged flame in the vicinity of the stagnation plane to a double flame consisting of a premixed-type, fuel-side flame and a stagnation-region diffusion flame—as the fuel stream equivalence ratio is perturbed slightly below ≈1.5–1.4. Accordingly, the mode and amount of NO x formation changes severely. This duality in flame structure is further discerned by monitoring the relative locations of CH and OH profiles, as these are indicators of specific flame chemistry. The exact value of the “changeover” equivalence ratio depends upon the flame's strain rate, and in fact, flames close enough to extinction remain as a merged flame structure even at the lowest equivalence ratio. The maximum fuel-side velocity gradient is shown to be an extremely sensitive and sharp indicator of flame character, being completely insensitive to fuel-stream equivalence ratio above certain strain-dependent values, but varying sharply with equivalence ratio below these values. Other parameters, such as the width of the temperature or product species profiles, are shown to be indicators of flame structure, also, but are not nearly as sharply responsive as the fuel-side velocity gradient. These results could have important implications for design criteria for commercial burners, as well as for applications to the prediction of turbulent flame structure, including suppression and extinction.
Suspension characteristics of borate-crosslinked gels: Rheology and atomic force microscopy measurements

Borate-crosslinked guar gels were prepared and characterized to understand their capability to suspend and transport sand particles through a fracture created in a petroleum reservoir. In this study the crosslinked gels were formulated by varying the borate crosslinker concentrations that were selected such that the gels satisfied the minimum viscosity criteria (100 cP at 100/s) used to evaluate crosslinked gels for their suspension capabilities. However, some of these gels did not exhibit satisfactory particles transport through a slot that models a parallel fracture. These gels were then characterized using oscillatory measurements and atomic force microscopy (AFM) to understand the influence of the microscopic behavior of the crosslinked gels on their macroscopic performance in the slot. The results showed that the suspension transport characteristics of these gels could be described through crosslinked networks formed across the guar polymer. The AFM images and rheological measurements of these gels suggest that the elastic modulus provides more useful information than the viscosity about the crosslinked gel structure and their capability to suspend sand particles. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 82: 2978–2990, 2001
Necrotic mass-like upper lobe opacity.

48-year-old woman presented with a 1-month history of left anterior chest wall pain, dyspnea, productive cough, and night sweats. She denied having fever but admitted weight loss of approximately 15 lb over the past 2 months. Her medical history was unremarkable except for alcohol abuse and a 74-pack-year smoking history. Her vital signs and physical examination were also unremarkable, except for bilateral wheezing and dullness to percussion over the right upper lobe. She had no known exposure history for tuberculosis. The chest radiograph showed an ill-defined opacity at the right upper lobe (Fig 1). She was admitted to the hospital and placed in respiratory isolation. A purified protein derivative was administered, and sputum was sent for cultures, cytology, and acid-fast bacilli test, all of which were negative for tuberculosis and/or malignancy. A chest CT without contrast was obtained that revealed a necrotic mass-like opacity in the right upper lobe, measuring 4.7 cm in diameter (volume, 31,871 mm 3 ), as well as patchy ground-glass opacities. A 1.9-cm pretracheal lymph node was also present (Fig 2). Fine-needle aspiration of the mass was performed, and specimens were sent for stains/culture and cytology. The patient was treated empirically with levofloxacin, 500 mg qd, for 3 weeks, during which time she had symptomatic improvement. A follow-up CT scan 4 weeks later demonstrated clearing of the ground-glass opacities and pretracheal lymphadenopathy, with reduction in diameter of the masslike opacity to 3.1 cm (volume, 24,646 mm 3 ).
Gene function prediction from congruent synthetic lethal interactions in yeast.

We predicted gene function using synthetic lethal genetic interactions between null alleles in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Phenotypic and protein interaction data indicate that synthetic lethal gene pairs function in parallel or compensating pathways. Congruent gene pairs, defined as sharing synthetic lethal partners, are in single pathway branches. We predicted benomyl sensitivity and nuclear migration defects using congruence; these phenotypes were uncorrelated with direct synthetic lethality. We also predicted YLL049W as a new member of the dynein–dynactin pathway and provided new supporting experimental evidence. We performed synthetic lethal screens of the parallel mitotic exit network (MEN) and Cdc14 early anaphase release pathways required for late cell cycle. Synthetic lethal interactions bridged genes in these pathways, and high congruence linked genes within each pathway. Synthetic lethal interactions between MEN and all components of the Sin3/Rpd3 histone deacetylase revealed a novel function for Sin3/Rpd3 in promoting mitotic exit in parallel to MEN. These in silico methods can predict phenotypes and gene functions and are applicable to genomic synthetic lethality screens in yeast and analogous RNA interference screens in metazoans.
tRNA-controlled Nuclear Import of a Human tRNA Synthetase

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, essential components of the cytoplasmic translation apparatus, also have nuclear functions that continue to be elucidated. However, little is known about how the distribution between cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments is controlled. Using a combination of methods, here we showed that human tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase (TyrRS) distributes to the nucleus and that the nuclear import of human TyrRS is regulated by its cognate tRNATyr. We identified a hexapeptide motif in the anticodon recognition domain that is critical for nuclear import of the synthetase. Remarkably, this nuclear localization signal (NLS) sequence motif is also important for interacting with tRNATyr. As a consequence, mutational alteration of the hexapeptide simultaneously attenuated aminoacylation and nuclear localization. Because the NLS is sterically blocked when the cognate tRNA is bound to TyrRS, we hypothesized that the nuclear distribution of TyrRS is regulated by tRNATyr. This expectation was confirmed by RNAi knockdown of tRNATyr expression, which led to robust nuclear import of TyrRS. Further bioinformatics analysis showed that to have nuclear import of TyrRS directly controlled by tRNATyr in higher organisms, the NLS of lower eukaryotes was abandoned, whereas the new NLS was evolved from an anticodon-binding hexapeptide motif. Thus, higher organisms developed a strategy to make tRNA a regulator of the nuclear trafficking of its cognate synthetase. The design in principle should coordinate nuclear import of a tRNA synthetase with the demands of protein synthesis in the cytoplasm.
Hijacking the host ubiquitin pathway: structural strategies of bacterial E3 ubiquitin ligases

Ubiquitinylation of proteins is a critical mechanism in regulating numerous eukaryotic cellular processes including cell cycle progression, inflammatory response, and vesicular trafficking. Given the importance of ubiquitinylation, it is not surprising that several pathogenic bacteria have developed strategies to exploit various stages of the ubiquitin pathway for their own benefit. One such strategy is the delivery of bacterial 'effector' proteins into the host cell cytosol, which mimic the activities of components of the host ubiquitin pathway. Recent studies have highlighted a number of bacterial effectors that functionally mimic the activity of eukaryotic E3 ubiquitin ligases, including a novel structural class of bacterial E3 ligases that provides a striking example of convergent evolution.