cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rate constrained partial equilibrium models for the formation of nitric oxide from organic fuel nitrogen

Rate constrained partial equilibrium models which describe the formation of nitric oxide from organic fuel nitrogen during combustion have been developed. Predictions of model calculations for the combustion of hydrocarbon fuels, which contain organic nitrogen in forms typical of those to be found in naturally occurring fossil fuels, appear to be in good agreement with the nitric oxide yields measured in recently reported premixed flame experiments.
New Software Technologies for the Development and Runtime Support of Complex Applications

This paper discusses new research directions leading to novel software technologies for the development and runtime support of complex applications executing on dynamic and adaptive computing platforms. The two key technology areas discussed here are new compiling technology and new application composition technology, which will enable applications to effectively exploit such platforms. In the new compiling system advocated here, a tight interaction loop is enabled between the compiler and the underlying system resource managers, as well as performance descriptors of the applications and the underlying hardware and software systems. This kind of new compiling system will have the ability to adaptively optimize the mapping of applications on the underlying dynamic platform assembly. In addition, the paper discusses the need for new technology for knowledge-based, compiler-invoked application components' dynamic assembly. Together with such advances, new programming models that can aid the new compiling system in the tasks above are also necessary. The paper also addresses the need for integration of these technologies into application support environments and demonstration of the technologies on important production-class applications.
Sustained, New, Never, and Discontinued Tobacco Cessation Services Adopters

This study examined longitudinal adoption patterns of tobacco cessation (TC) counseling and TC pharmacotherapy in substance use disorder treatment programs and baseline predictors (program characteristics and program culture) of these patterns 12-months later. Telephone survey data were collected in 2010 from 685 randomly sampled program administrators working in geographically representative treatment programs across the U.S. Regarding TC counseling, about 41% of programs never adopt, 33% sustain, and 27% change adoption patterns. Concerning TC pharmacotherapy, about 62% of programs never adopt, 19% sustain, and 18% change adoption patterns. The three most consistent predictors of counseling adoption patterns are TC reimbursement, TC financial resource availability, and smoking culture. For TC pharmacotherapy adoption patterns, the most consistent predictors include profit status, TC reimbursement, level of care, TC financial resource availability, and smoking culture. Findings provide insights into program characteristics and program culture as both potential barriers and facilitators of longitudinal TCS adoption.
Limited heterogeneity of antibodies resolution of hapten binding curves into linear components

Abstract The hapten bindign curve for a heterogeneous antibody preparation was resolved by a graphical procedure into two linear binding curves. The antibody, obtained from the earlier bleedings of an individual rabbit, consisted principally of two homogeneous components on the basis of light chain disc electrophoresis and specific fractionation. Production of one of the two components subsequently ceased and the other component persisted. The measured binding constant for the persistant component, 104M−1, was used in the resolution as K for one of the components of the heterogeneous preparation; this component was found to amount to 40 per cent of the mixture. The binding constant of the other component was found to be 2·2 × 105M−1 and amounted to 60 per cent of the mixture. The resolution procedure should be useful in describing other antibody preparations.
Use of Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations for Design of a Pretreatment Screw Conveyor Reactor

Computational fluid dynamics simulations were employed to compare performance of various designs of a pretreatment screw conveyor reactor. The reactor consisted of a vertical screw used to create cross flow between the upward conveying solids and the downward flow of acid. Simulations were performed with the original screw design and a modified design in which the upper flights of the screw were removed. Results of the simulations show visually that the modified design provided favorable plug flow behavior within the reactor. Pressure drop across the length of the reactor without the upper screws in place was predicted by the simulations to be 5 vs 40 kPa for the original design.
In vitro challenge and antibody production of the ex vivo perfused spleen

Summary Antigenic challenge with sheep red blood cells has been made to 16 pig spleens, 4 hours after excision and placement in an asanguinal perfusion system. Antibody-producing lymphocytes, both within the spleen and in the perfusate, were detected in increasing amounts for 3 days of perfusion. This is the first definite evidence that an isolated perfused organ can manufacture antibody-producing cells following primary antigenic stimulation in vitro.
Balloon dilatation of benign postsurgical biliary-enteric anastomotic strictures.

Five benign postsurgical strictures in 3 patients were successfully dilated using the Gruntzig balloon catheter. Various aspects of the procedure as well as potential problems are discussed.
Low‐Temperature Growth of Thick Polystyrene Brushes via ATRP

Summary: This contribution describes the graft polymerization of polystyrene (PS) by atom transfer radical polymerization at 50, 60, and 75 °C. Thick PS brushes were grown from initiator-functionalized PGMA layers on silicon, and constant growth rates provide indirect evidence that the polymerizations were controlled. Formation of polystyrene brushes at T < Tg by ATRP of styrene from α-bromoester initiator-functionalized poly(glycidyl methacrylate) layers.
Controlled ischemia for complex venous surgery: The technique of choice

Surgery under controlled ischemia has been extensively practiced by cardiac, plastic, orthopedic, vascular, and general surgeons. During the past 20 years, we have routinely used this technique to operate on a clean, bloodless field in complex cases of congenital vascular malformations. Based on our favorable experience, we have extended the use of the pneumatic tourniquet to complex cases of primary varicose veins. The use of the tourniquet has dramatically decreased the blood loss and operating time in complex venous surgery without complications secondary to its use. This technique represents a welcome alternative to the bloody, tedious, and time-consuming traditional varicose vein surgery of the past. Complex venous surgery for extensive varicose veins of the extremities can be safely and expeditiously performed under controlled ischemia. It should be the technique of choice.
First Principles Analysis of the Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Methanol and Carbon Monoxide

The strong drive to commercialize fuel cells for portable as well as transportation power sources has led to the tremendous growth in fundamental research aimed at elucidating the catalytic paths and kinetics that govern the electrode performance of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. Advances in theory over the past decade coupled with the exponential increases in computational speed and memory have enabled theory to become an invaluable partner in elucidating the surface chemistry that controls different catalytic systems. Despite the significant advances in modeling vapor-phase catalytic systems, the widespread use of first principle theoretical calculations in the analysis of electrocatalytic systems has been rather limited due to the complex electrochemical environment. Herein, we describe the development and application of a first-principles-based approach termed the double reference method that can be used to simulate chemistry at an electrified interface. The simulations mimic the half-cell analysis that is currently used to evaluate electrochemical systems experimentally where the potential is set via an external potentiostat. We use this approach to simulate the potential dependence of elementary reaction energies and activation barriers for different electrocatalytic reactions important for the anode of the direct methanol fuel cell. More specifically we examine the potential-dependence for the activation of water and the oxidation of methanol and CO over model Pt and Pt alloy surfaces. The insights from these model systems are subsequently used to test alternative compositions for the development of improved catalytic materials for the anode of the direct methanol fuel cell.
OA at university

Abstract A UK university is using word processors linked to a computer typesetter to produce documents such as committee minutes and degree programmes. Cutbacks in funding to universities and the resultant decrease in secretarial staff has made a drive for greater efficiency important.
SU-E-T-143: Dosimetric Characteristics of TrueBeam STx System with High Definition Multi-Leaf Collimator: Commissioning of Stereotactic Radiosurgery

IntroductionDosimetric characteristics of one TrueBeam STx treatment unit with a 120‐leaf high definition multileaf collimator (HD120MLC) are systematically measured for commissioning of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Due to limited data available, it is important to make the dosimetric data available for reference.MethodsSRS commissioning data were acquired for two photon beam calculation algorithms of the treatment planning system iPlan (BrainLAB iPlan4.5): Clarkson method and Pencil Beam dose calculation (PBC) method. Major beam data required include percent depth dose (PDD), beam profile, and relative scatter factors for various field sizes. Generally, the PBC is used for HD120MLC based treatment planning, while Clarkson method is for cone‐based planning. ResultsPDD, beam profile and relative scatter data for the circular cones with diameters of 4, 6.0, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15 mm were measured for 6X flattening‐filter‐free (FFF) and 10X FFF. The relative scatter factors range from 1.12 to 1.45 for 6X FFF and 0.81 to 1.23 for 10XFFF. Beam penumbra of 6XFFF and 10XFFF of each the circular cone were less than 2.5 mm for the 20% to 80% criterion. PDD and relative scatter data for HD120MLC were measured for various MLC fields with corresponding jaw settings for various energy modes: 6X, 6X FFF, 10X, 10X FFF and 15X, with an MLC filed down to 5mmx5mm. The transverse and diagonal beam profiles for HD120MLC were measured at different depths to generate source function correction models in iPlan. HD120MLC leakage for open jaw and close jaw are ∼1% and 0.0% for all the energy modes. The measured HD120MLC dynamic leaf shifts are 0.15, 0.11, 0.19, 0.18, 0.21 mm for 6X, 6XFFF, 10X, 10XFFF and 15X, less than 1/2 of those of the Novalis Tx system previous published.ConclusionThe commissioning data provided us valuable insights and might be useful for future reference.
Association of statin use with peripheral neuropathy in the U.S. population 40 years of age or older.

Background Peripheral neuropathy is a serious complication of diabetes and several conditions that may lead to the loss of lower extremity function and even amputations. Since the introduction of statins, their use has increased markedly. Recent reports suggest a role for statins in the development of peripheral neuropathy. The aims of the present study were to assess the association between statin use and peripheral neuropathy, and to determine whether this association varied by diabetes status. Methods Data from the lower extremity examination supplement of the 1999–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used. Results The overall prevalence of statin use was 15% and the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy was 14.9%. The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy was significantly higher among those who used statins compared with those who did not (23.5% vs 13.5%, respectively; P < 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that statin use (adjusted odds ratio 1.3; 95% confidence interval 1.1–1.6; Wald P = 0.04) was significantly associated with peripheral neuropathy, controlling for diabetes status, age, gender, race, height, weight, blood lead levels, poverty, glycohemoglobin, use of vitamin B12, alcohol abuse, hypertension, and non-high-density lipoprotein–cholesterol. Diabetes status, age, gender, height, weight, blood lead levels, poverty, and glycohemoglobin were also significantly associated with peripheral neuropathy. We found no effect modification between statin use and diabetes status, race, gender, age, vitamin B12, blood lead levels, or alcohol abuse. Conclusions In the present cross-sectional study, we found a modest association between peripheral neuropathy and statin use. Prospective studies are required to determine the causal direction.
Simulation of Mesoscale Variability in the Gulf of Mexico: Sensitivity Studies, Comparison with Observations, and Trapped Wave Propagation

Abstract A primitive equation Gulf of Mexico model was used to examine variability of the Loop Current (LC) and Loop Current eddies (LCE). Realistic results were obtained for a certain range of values of the horizontal mixing coefficient: eddy paths were west and southwestward; eddy propagation speeds from 3 to 5 km day−1; the ratio of minor to major eddy axes about 0.8; eddy shedding periods from 200 to 500 days; eddy lifetimes from 100 to 200 days; eddy sizes from 200 to 400 km; and eddy swirl transports, as fractions of the specified inflow of 30 Sv, were from 0.55 to 0.85. On the other hand, the maximum vertical deepening of the 20°C isotherm was 15% to 50% less than that observed, resulting in weaker near-surface currents of about 0.65 m s−1, in comparison to observed values of 0.88 to 1.7 m s−1. A strong correlation between eddy shedding and decreasing or reversing lower-layer (below 750 m) transport in the Yucatan Channel is found. In the western Gulf, current variability is produced by eddy arriva...
Stitching modernity: the textile work of Fortunato Depero

Fortunato Depero (1892–1960) was a Futurist artist who worked in a variety of artistic mediums, from painting and graphic design to furniture and textiles. His work in textiles, created and produced in close collaboration with his wife, Rosetta Amadori, can be considered the most important development in his artistic career, as it comprised a large portion of his creative production. Yet this work has been largely overlooked. Many reasons explain this oversight, including categorizing inconsistencies – for example, his textiles have been described as embroidery, needlework, tapestry, patchwork, and cloth mosaic – and the persistent relegation of textiles to the realm of crafts and domestic arts rather than art, which has meant that his work in textiles has not been a priority for scholars and conservators of Futurism. This paper places Depero's textiles within the context of early-twentieth-century modernist artistic activities, and demonstrates the centrality of his textile work to his artistic oeuvre.
Site of conversion of endogenous all-trans-retinoids to 11-cis-retinoids in the bovine eye.

Abstract By use of a new high-resolution high-pressure liquid chromatographic method for the separation of isomeric forms of retinol, retinal, retinyl ester and retinal oxime, various retinoids were analyzed in separated retinal pigment epithelial tissue or neural retinal tissue from fresh bleached bovine eyes after incubation in the dark at either 30 or 4°C for 90 min. 11-cis-Retinoids significantly increased during incubation at 30°C, relative to those at 4°C, in the retinal pigment epithelium, but not in the retina. The major forms of vitamin A in incubated retinal pigment epithelium and neural retina were retinyl esters (70%) and all-trans-retinol (69%), respectively. Thus, in keeping with observations on the isomerization of radioactive retinol in homogenates of eye tissues, the retinal pigment epithelium seems to be the primary site of 11-cis-retinoid formation from endogenous all-trans-retinoids in the bovine eye.
Cognitive-behavioral Stress Management for Individuals With Substance Use Disorders: A Pilot Study

Stress-induced craving and stress reactivity may influence risk for substance use or relapse to use. Interventions designed to attenuate stress-induced craving and stress reactivity may serve as excellent adjuncts to more comprehensive treatment programs. The purpose of this study was to (1) tailor an existing, manualized, cognitive-behavioral stress management (CBSM) intervention for use in individuals with substance use disorders and (2) preliminarily evaluate the effects of the intervention using an experimental stress-induction paradigm. Twenty individuals were interviewed and then completed a psychological stress task, the Mental Arithmetic Task (MAT). After this, participants were assigned to either the CBSM intervention group or a nontreatment comparison group. Approximately 3 weeks later, participants completed a second MAT. In contrast to the comparison group, the CBSM group demonstrated significantly less stress-induced craving (p<.04) and stress (p<.02), and reported greater ability to resist urges to use (p<.02) after the second MAT. These findings are among the first to report on the use of an intervention to attenuate craving and stress reactivity among individuals with substance use disorders. Although preliminary, the findings suggest that systematic investigation of interventions specifically targeting stress management in individuals with substance use disorders should be undertaken.
pH-Dependent Thickness Behavior of Sequentially Adsorbed Layers of Weak Polyelectrolytes

A detailed study of the role that solution pH plays in the layer-by-layer processing of the weak polyelectrolytes poly(acrylic acid) and poly(allylamine hydrochoride) was carried out. It was found that dramatically different polymer adsorption behavior is observed as one systematically increases (or decreases) the charge density of a weak polyelectrolyte including transitions from very thick adsorbed layers (ca. 80 A) to very thin adsorbed layers (ca. 4 A) over a very narrow pH range. By controlling pH, it is possible to vary the thickness of an adsorbed polycation or polyanion layer from 5 to 80 A. In addition, control over the bulk and surface composition of the resultant multilayer thin films is readily achieved via simple pH adjustments. These studies have provided new insights into the polyelectrolyte sequential adsorption process and have already opened up some interesting technological applications.
The Role of Information in Environmental Governance

compilations of many short cases to be used as discussion starters, where the goal is to explore alternative answers. Koven avoids these potential problems in two ways. First, by using just six cases, he can explore each in considerable detail. Second, the "lessons to be learned" are clearly presented. There is no doubt about the implications of the cases, or that we have six cases of irresponsible governance. The learning outcomes are never in doubt. It is clear what should not be done, even if what should be done remains somewhat fuzzy.
Prevarication: Reasoning from false assumptions

This paper examines the strategies t~sed in solving prevaricative reasoning problems. The task consisted of a noncontradictory set of propositions followed by an assumption that introduced an inconsistency. Ss were required to restore consistency by assigning truth values to propositions. When reasoning from false assumptions, Ss exhibit a specific strategy in assigning truth values: If forced to choose between the truth of a generality (e.g., All As are Bs) and that of a particular fact (e.g., This Y is a Z), the Ss assign the generality TRUE and the fact FALSE. Affirmative generalities are assigned TRUE more often than are negative ones, and those expressing class inclusion are assigned TRUE more often than those expressing property assignment. The data show that the selection of a “path” through this hypothetical reasoning problem cannot be attributed to either the syntactic form or the preexperimental credibility of the propositions. A generality coding model was discussed in terms of strategies sho~ in prevaricative reasoning problems as well as in other inference tasks.
Electrical resistivity and phase relations for the thorium-carbon system☆

Abstract The electrical resistivity of thorium-carbon alloys was measured for compositions of 4 to 70 at %/carbon Jand temperatures of 25° C to as high as 2400° C. The data are consistent with the existence of a miscibility gap in the Th-ThC region, a miscibility gap in the ThC-ThC2 region and a fee solid solution extending from pure thorium to ThC2 at high temperatures. Boundaries for the miscibility gaps are given. ThC2 undergoes two allotropic transformations, the first at 1370 ± 15° C and the second at 1470 ± 15° C. At lower carbon compositions the transformation temperatures are lowered to 1260 ± 10° C and 1460 ± 10° C, respectively. Isothermal resistivity-composition plots for various temperatures up to 2400° C are presented. Each curve shows a maximum, which at 25° C occurs at 48 at % carbon and a specific resistivity of 196 μΩ·cm; at 2400° C it occurs at about 53.4 at % carbon and 290 μΩ·cm. At 25° C the dicarbide has a resistivity of 20.0 ± 1.0 μμ·cm. The value for the monocarbide is not well defined, the resistivity changes from 195 to 120 μΩ·cm in a composition range of about 49 to 51 at % carbon. A phase diagram based on these and other data is presented.
Vagus nerve stimulation during rehabilitative training improves forelimb strength following ischemic stroke

Upper limb impairment is a common debilitating consequence of ischemic stroke. Physical rehabilitation after stroke enhances neuroplasticity and improves limb function, but does not typically restore normal movement. We have recently developed a novel method that uses vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) paired with forelimb movements to drive specific, long-lasting map plasticity in rat primary motor cortex. Here we report that VNS paired with rehabilitative training can enhance recovery of forelimb force generation following infarction of primary motor cortex in rats. Quantitative measures of forelimb function returned to pre-lesion levels when VNS was delivered during rehab training. Intensive rehab training without VNS failed to restore function back to pre-lesion levels. Animals that received VNS during rehab improved twice as much as rats that received the same rehabilitation without VNS. VNS delivered during physical rehabilitation represents a novel method that may provide long-lasting benefits towards stroke recovery.
Field-ion microscopy of tempered martensite

Abstract Hydrogen-ion microscopy has been used to study microstructural features of tempered martensite in a commercial FeO8% C-0·4% Mn steel, and a comparison between microstructure and measured microhardness has been made. At peak hardness in the early first stage of tempering, a high density of carbides with {100} habits and primarily in the form of very thin platelets is present. Many of these particles are coherent and some are associated with dislocations. As the hardness decreases, the density of particles decreases and their length and width increase rapidly. Their thickness, however, increases very slowly and coherency is maintained for a large number of particles throughout the first stage of tempering. In the late first stage of tempering large incoherent carbide platelets with {112} and {110} habits begin to form; and in the third stage of tempering where the hardness drops more rapidly, a comparatively low density of these large incoherent carbides is found. These results support the theory t...
The combined approach to intracranial aneurysm treatment

Abstract Background A consecutive series of patients with intracranial aneurysms in the practice of one neurovascular surgeon was retrospectively reviewed to illustrate that one physician can become proficient in microneurosurgery as well as endovascular surgery and achieve favorable outcomes in both disciplines. This supports one model of training for cerebrovascular surgeons that includes the complimentary practice of open microneurovascular surgery with endovascular surgery. Methods The senior author (HAR) treated 351 patients with 413 aneurysms between July 2001 and March 2007. Of these, 172 patients (216 aneurysms) were treated with open microneurosurgical techniques and 179 patients (197 aneurysms) were treated using endovascular techniques. Results Complete obliteration was attained in 94.3% of clipped aneurysms, and 61.9% and 65.9% of coiled aneurysms immediately and after at least 6 months of follow-up, respectively. At latest evaluation, 93% of endovascular patients and 90% of microneurosurgical patients had good clinical outcomes (GOS, 4 or 5; mean follow-up, 23 months; combines ruptured and unruptured cohorts). Procedure-related mortality included 1 surgical patient and 2 endovascular patients. Conclusions Because the fields of microvascular and endovascular surgeries are both technically complex, there has been concern that hybrid cerebrovascular surgeons cannot perform each technique with the skill necessary to achieve good outcomes. When compared to clipping and coiling reviews in the neurosurgical literature, we illustrate that one hybrid neurovascular surgeon is capable of attaining great facility in both techniques and that this type of physician will represent one practice model of cerebrovascular specialist in the future. This has potential implications for the training of hybrid cerebrovascular surgeons.
SU‐E‐T‐363: Sensitivity of ArcCheck to Delivery Errors in IMRT/VMAT Treatment

Purpose: There is an increasing trend to perform IMRT QA measurements using ion chamber or diode arrays in place of film. This change has improved QA efficiency but raises questions about the system's sensitivity to machine mechanical accuracies due to their coarse resolution. This work uses intentional set up and mechanical errors to test the sensitivity of a cylindrical IMRT QA detector array to operator and machine errors. Methods: A cylindrical phantom (Sun Nuclear ArcCheck) with a 3D array of 1385 diodes, arranged in a spiral pattern with 10 mm detector spacing, was studied. Translational, rotational (via collimator rotation) and multi‐leaf collimator positioning errors were deliberately induced and applied. Translational shifts of 2–10 mm were applied on a VMAT plan. Collimator rotations up to 5o were applied to a 10 cm open anterior‐posterior field. 1–3mm systemic shifts were applied to all MLC leaves in the same bank in an IMRT plan. Gamma analysis of varying thresholds was used to analyze the results. Results: ArcCheck is sensitive to <1 mm translational shifts in all major axes, resulting in a 20% to 60% drop in passing rates for 2% tolerance, with much higher sensitivity to longitudinal shifts. Collimator rotation of 1o is detectable in the static 10 cm open field test. The systemic MLC positioning errors could be detected in gamma tests with tolerances ranging from 1%/1mm to 3%/3mm. Conclusions: Despite the 1 cm detector spacing, ArcCheck is sensitive to small set‐up and systematic MLC shifts on the order of 1 mm. It is also sensitive to small (1 degree) rotational errors in the setup field. The spiral placement geometry and large number of the detectors statistically helps compensate for the relatively coarse resolution of the detectors. The study shows that it is possible to tighten the criteria in IMRT/VMAT patient QA.
Virtual reality hardware and graphic display options for brain-machine interfaces

Virtual reality hardware and graphic displays are reviewed here as a development environment for brain-machine interfaces (BMIs). Two desktop stereoscopic monitors and one 2D monitor were compared in a visual depth discrimination task and in a 3D target-matching task where able-bodied individuals used actual hand movements to match a virtual hand to different target hands. Three graphic representations of the hand were compared: a plain sphere, a sphere attached to the fingertip of a realistic hand and arm, and a stylized pacman-like hand. Several subjects had great difficulty using either stereo monitor for depth perception when perspective size cues were removed. A mismatch in stereo and size cues generated inappropriate depth illusions. This phenomenon has implications for choosing target and virtual hand sizes in BMI experiments. Target-matching accuracy was about as good with the 2D monitor as with either 3D monitor. However, users achieved this accuracy by exploring the boundaries of the hand in the target with carefully controlled movements. This method of determining relative depth may not be possible in BMI experiments if movement control is more limited. Intuitive depth cues, such as including a virtual arm, can significantly improve depth perception accuracy with or without stereo viewing.
MRI of large intraosseous lesions in patients with inflammatory arthritis

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of our study was to evaluate on MRI the occurrence of large cystlike intraosseous lesions in patients with inflammatory arthritis.SUBJECTS AND METHODS. We prospectively reviewed contrast-enhanced MR images of 128 hands and wrists in 44 patients with clinical presentation of inflammatory arthritis. Large lesions (≥ 1 cm) found on MR images were further evaluated for the presence of a cortical break and intraarticular extension. These data were correlated with clinical and laboratory findings and the duration of arthritis.RESULTS. We found 26 patients with rheumatoid arthritis, seven with psoriatic arthritis, two with systemic lupus erythematosus, one with HIV-associated arthritis, one with mixed connective tissue disorder, one with paraneoplastic-associated arthritis, one with inflammatory bowel disease arthritis, and five patients with early unclassified inflammatory arthritis. Twelve patients had 16 large intraosseous lesions, none of which were detected on available radiographs (a...
Ultrasensitive standoff chemical sensing based on nonlinear multi-photon laser wave-mixing spectroscopy

Nonlinear multi-photon laser wave mixing is presented as an ultrasensitive optical detection method for chem/bio agents in thin films and gas- and liquid-phase samples. Laser wave mixing is an unusually sensitive optical absorption-based detection method that offers significant inherent advantages including excellent sensitivity, small sample requirements, short optical path lengths, high spatial resolution, high spectral resolution and standoff remote detection capability. Wave mixing can detect trace amounts of chemicals even when using micrometer-thin samples, and hence, it can be conveniently interfaced to fibers, microarrays, microfluidic systems, lab-on-a-chip, capillary electrophoresis and other capillary- or fiber-based chemical separation systems. The wave-mixing signal is generated instantaneously as the two input laser beams intersect inside the analyte of interest. Laser excitation wavelengths can be tuned to detect multiple chemicals in their native form since wave mixing can detect both fluorescing and non-fluorescing samples at parts-pertrillion or better detection sensitivity levels. The wave-mixing signal is a laser-like coherent beam, and hence, it allows reliable and effective remote sensing of chemicals. Sensitive wave-mixing detectors offer many potential applications including sensitive detection of biomarkers, early detection of diseases, sensitive monitoring of environmental samples, and reliable detection of hazardous chem/bio agents with a standoff detection capability.
Differential cytochrome content and reductase activity in Geospirillum barnesii strain SeS3

The protein composition, cytochrome content, and reductase activity in the dissimilatory selenate-reducing bacterium Geospirillum barnesii strain SeS3, grown with thiosulfate, nitrate, selenate, or fumarate as the terminal electron acceptor, was investigated. Comparison of seven high-molecular-mass membrane proteins (105.3, 90.3, 82.6, 70.2, 67.4, 61.1, and 57.3 kDa) by SDS-PAGE showed that their detection was dependent on the terminal electron acceptor used. Membrane fractions from cells grown on thiosulfate contained a 70.2-kDa c-type cytochrome with absorbance maxima at 552, 522, and 421 nm. A 61.1-kDa c-type cytochrome with absorption maxima at 552, 523, and 423 nm was seen in membrane fractions from cells grown on nitrate. No c-type cytochromes were detected in membrane fractions of either selenate- or fumarate-grown cells. Difference spectra, however, revealed the presence of a cytochrome b554 (absorption maxima at 554, 523, and 422 nm) in membrane fractions from selenate-grown cells and a cytochrome b556 (absorption maxima at 556, 520, and 416 nm) in membrane fractions from fumarate-grown cells. Analysis of reductase activity in the different membrane fractions showed variability in substrate specificity. However, enzyme activity was greatest for the substrate on which the cells had been grown (e.g., membranes from nitrate-grown cells exhibited the greatest activity with nitrate). These results show that protein composition, cytochrome content, and reductase activity are dependent on the terminal electron acceptor used for growth.
A computational model of spatiochromatic image coding in early vision

Abstract We applied decorrelation and redundancy reduction methods to image signals in space and color to derive an image coding operation that simultaneously reduces correlation in both these dimensions. This method, which we apply to the “red” and “green” planes of a color image, is based on an eigenvector (Karhunen-Loeve) transformation in color in conjunction with linear predictive coding in space. The resulting image transformation has a distinct major component associated with an achromatic response, and a second component associated with a chromatic response. The achromatic component has a high spatial frequency bandpass form and contains a large portion of the signal energy. The chromatic component is spatially lowpass and contains chromatic differences which represent only a small portion of the signal energy. A color image is thereby transformed into two distinct components that contain primarily spatial information and primarily color information, respectively. These image components correlate with a high spatial frequency cutoff luminance mechanism and low spatial frequency cutoff chromatic mechanism in the visual system and can be implemented by a simple combination of retinal color-opponent receptive fields.
An experiment in computational discrimination of English word senses

A number of researchers in text processing have independently observed that people can consistently determine in which of several given senses a word is being used in text, simply by examining the half dozen or so words just before and just after the word in focus. The question arises whether the same task can be accomplished by mechanical means. Experimental results are presented which suggest an affirmative answer to this query. Three separate methods of discriminating English word senses are compared information-theoretically. Findings include a strong indication of the power of domain-specific content analysis of text, as opposed to domain-general approaches.
Electrically conductive silicone nano-composites for stretchable RF devices

The objective of this paper is to show how stretchable conductive composites can be utilized for the fabrication of ultra-low cost stretchable RF devices. We show a method to produce biocompatible highly conductive stretchable silicone composites via an in-situ nanoparticle formation and sintering process. Furthermore, we develop a simple, low cost, processing technique to fabricate stretchable RF transmission lines. These RF transmission lines are highly flexible, stretchable and robust. The S-parameter measurements show stable performance during mechanical deformation up to 6 GHz. Future development of this technology will enable ultra low cost consumer RF devices serving as a platform for future stretchable electronic devices.
REDUCTION OF PARA-VALVULAR REGURGITATION WITH POST-DILATATION FOLLOWING BALLOON-EXPANDABLE TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT

Methods: Transesophageal echocardiograms of 58 consecutive patients who underwent balloon-expandable TAVR were evaluated; 36 with PD (PD+) and 22 without PD (PD-). PD was performed in cases with more than mild PVR (≥2+) after valve deployment. From short-axis color Doppler views just apical to the stent, the sum of the areas of PVR jets were measured following deployment (PVR1), following PD (PVR2, PD+ only) and at procedure end (PVR3).
Giant tunnelling magnetoresistance at room temperature with MgO (100) tunnel barriers

Magnetically engineered magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) show promise as non-volatile storage cells in high-performance solid-state magnetic random access memories (MRAM). The performance of these devices is currently limited by the modest (< approximately 70%) room-temperature tunnelling magnetoresistance (TMR) of technologically relevant MTJs. Much higher TMR values have been theoretically predicted for perfectly ordered (100) oriented single-crystalline Fe/MgO/Fe MTJs. Here we show that sputter-deposited polycrystalline MTJs grown on an amorphous underlayer, but with highly oriented (100) MgO tunnel barriers and CoFe electrodes, exhibit TMR values of up to approximately 220% at room temperature and approximately 300% at low temperatures. Consistent with these high TMR values, superconducting tunnelling spectroscopy experiments indicate that the tunnelling current has a very high spin polarization of approximately 85%, which rivals that previously observed only using half-metallic ferromagnets. Such high values of spin polarization and TMR in readily manufactureable and highly thermally stable devices (up to 400 degrees C) will accelerate the development of new families of spintronic devices.
Automatic generation of assertions for formal verification of PowerPC/sup TM /microprocessor arrays using symbolic trajectory evaluation

For verifying complex sequen tialbloc ks such as microprocessor embedded arrays, the formal method of symbolic trajectory ev aluation (STE) has achieved great success in the past [[3], [5], [6]]. P ast STE methodology for arrays requires manual creation of “assertions” to which both the RTL view and the actual design should be equivalent. In this paper, w e describe a novel method to automate the assertion creation process which improves the efficiency and the quality of array verification. Encouraging results on recent P owerPC arrays will be presented.
The influence of tablet density on the human oral absorption of sustained release acetaminophen matrix tablets

AbstractLow density bilayer compressed matrix tablets of acetaminophen were tested for in vitro dissolution and in vivo oral absorption. The upper layer contained a carbon dioxide-generating blend and the lower layer contained hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and acetaminophen. Carbon dioxide liberated by the action of the acidic dissolution medium on the upper layer is entrapped in the gelled hydrocolloid, providing buoyancy of the tablet and sustained release of the drug. For comparative purposes, similar but non-gas generating bilayer compressed matrix tablets were formulated and tested in vitro under the same conditions. These high density tablets were found to yield similar dissolution profiles as the low density tablets. The absorption characteristics of the bilayer compressed matrix tablets were compared with those of rapidly disintegrating acetaminophen tablets (TYLENOL® tablets, 500 mg) under fasted and fed conditions in six healthy subjects. Under fasted conditions, saliva profiles showed a ...
Light duty diesels―the emissions challenge

Further restrictions of automotive diesel emissions are planned for European Economic Community countries at the end of 1992 and in North America for 1994. The effect of changes in emission legislation on engine development is reviewed. This paper also examines these standards and the technologies that are being applied to light duty automotive diesel engines. Combustion systems, fuel injection equipment, exhaust gas recirculation and oxidation catalysts are areas where development is reaping benefits in reducing diesel emissions.
Semi-disposable microvalves for use with microfabricated devices or microchips

The design, fabrication and performance characteristics of a semi-disposable CNC (computer numerical control) machined plexiglass microvalve system for use with microfabricated devices or microchips designed for human cell isolation and DNA amplification systems are described. Unlike other silicon chip-based microvalve systems, the CNC machined microvalve system is easy to fabricate, and it does not require a clean-room environment and complicated microfabrication procedures. The non-silicon-based microvalve comprises a disposable CNC machined plexiglass base and a flexible plastic membrane. The microvalve was formed from two discontinuous micro-channel components. The plexiglass used for fabrication does not inhibit biochemical reactions and extensive experimental flow studies were performed to optimize the design of the microvalve assembly so as to allow controlled flow. Different types of plastic membrane and eight different discontinuous micro-channel valve geometries were investigated and an optimum design was chosen based on the experimental results. The final design of the microvalve has minimal dead volume (less than 0.16 µl). We have demonstrated that the CNC machined plexiglass microvalve system can process microliter and sub-microliter sized samples of human whole blood without attendant problems, such as loss of sample on the microvalve system and loss by evaporation.
A Theory of Linear Profit-Sharing Incentives

I. Introduction to the general model, 460. —II. The problem of contractual incentives, 466. — III. Factors affecting the selection of an optimal incentive function, 470. —IV. Variation in the utility functions, 477. —V. Extension of results to Case II and Case II, 480. —VI. Government incentive contracts as a special case of the linear profit-sharing model, 480.—VII. Summary and conclusions, 481.
The crystal and molecular structure of the electron transfer complex butane-2, 3-dione-bis(2′-pyridyl-hydrazonato)nickel, [Ni(BDPH)-2H]

Abstract The neutral complex butane-2,3-dione-bis(′pyridylhydrazonato)nickel, [Ni(BDPH)-2H], obtained by deprotonation of butane-2,3-dione-bis(2′-pyridylhydrazono)nickel(II) cation, Ni(BDPH)2+, crystallizes in the monoclinic P21/c space group with four molecule in a unit cell of dimensions a = 16.278(20) A, b = 11.891(21) A, c = 6.934(12) A, β = 91.56(18)°. The crystal structure of this compound has been determined by a single crystal X-ray diffraction study. Of the total of 2023 reflections measured by a scintillation counter technique, 1107 showed intensities significantly different from background, and the structure has been refined with these to a weighted R-value of 9.7%. The individual molecules are essentially planar with a trapezoid of donor nitrogen atoms at average distances of 1.828 and 1.939 A from the metal. The crystal contains stacked columns of parallel molecules in which each nickel experiences two very weak intermolecular Ni … N interactions at 3.48 A roughly normal to the molecular plane. The molecules depart from C2v symmetry, apparently because of packing effects and intermolecular interactions. The patterns of bond distances in the two halves of the ligand are indicative of considerable electron delocalization in each. The delocalized halves are separated by a CC bridge bond of length 1.53 A. Although [Ni(BDPH)2H] has been shown to be the central member of a five-membered electron transfer series, the observed bond distances do not indicate that a simple valence bond description of the ground state electronic structure, propose for other electron transfer complexes of equivalent oxidation level, is applicable to this molecule, at least the crystalline state.
Relativistic electrons and magnetic storms: 1992-1995

This paper examines the relationship between relativistic electron enhancements at geosynchronous orbit and magnetic storms measured by the Dst index. We analyzed the 30 most intense relativistic electron events from 1992 to 1995 and all events that occurred in 1993. Every relativistic electron event was associated with a magnetic storm in the Dst index, but, magnetic storms could occur with no appreciable enhancement of the relativistic electron fluxes. By correlating the maximum electron flux in each event with the minimum Dst value we found that the maximum relativistic electron fluxes and maximum ring current intensity are roughly correlated but that there is considerable variation. These results suggest that the solar wind conditions that are necessary to generate a ring current response are also necessary to generate a strong relativistic electron response but that there is some additional factor, either in the solar wind or in the magnetosphere, that determines whether a given storm will produce relativistic electrons or not and how strong that response will be.
SOME CONSTITUTIONAL ASPECTS OF FEDERAL EXPENDITURES

MODERN GOVERNMENTS depend heavily upon the expenditure of money to make their powers effective and to carry on their various activities. Here, as elsewhere, money expenditures are a means to an end rather than an end in themselves, but they are such a vital and all-pervasive instrument or medium that they may exert a major influence on the scope and effectiveness of governmental activities. This paper examines the constitutional basis of federal spending in the United States to see what grants of power are given to Congress and the executive branch of the government and what prohibitions, limitations, or restrictions apply to the exercise of that power. A brief survey of this kind cannot present a well-rounded or exhaustive treatment of the subject nor can it explore many significant technical aspects. Rather, it can consider only a selected sample of developments and court decisions. Only a few of the hundreds of able commentaries on relevant points can even be mentioned and none can be considered at length. An attempt has been made to trace the main lines of the development of a few of the major constitutional doctrines, but it is not possible to show how they gradually evolved and changed over time nor to give the background of the changes. Most of the discussion will deal with the controversy over the welfare clause and with two or three of the enumerated powers of the federal government, especially the commerce power which has been involved in many of the developments.