cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Thermo-mechanical analysis of dry sliding systems

Abstract This paper discusses the numerical analysis or temperatures and stresses near the regions of contact between flat sliding rings, such as the seal rings of mechanical face seals. Of particular interest were rings having a hard, wear-resistant coating on a ductile metallic substrate. The temperature distribution in the sliding contact region was determined using a specially-developed finite element program, and that temperature distribution was used, along with mechanical normal and tangential contact tractions, as input to an ADINA-based thermo-elasto-plastic analysis of stresses and deformations. It was shown that frictional heating is the dominant contributor to high localized temperatures and stresses around the contact region, that plastic deformation can occur in the region, and that thermally-induced deformations and stresses can be a major reason for coating failure. The influence of coating and substrate properties, as well as coating thickness, on the results and on potential failure mechanisms was studied.
Review of major plutonium pyrochemical technology

Abstract The past 20 years have seen significant growth in the development and application of pyrochemical technology for the processing of plutonium. Non-aqueous high temperature processes offer key advantages over conventional hydrometallurgical systems for particular feed stocks and specific applications. Major processes in use today include 1. (1) direct oxide reduction for the conversion of PuO2 to metal 2. (2) molten salt extraction for americium removal from plutonium metal 3. (3) molten salt electrorefining for plutonium metal purification 4. (4) hydriding to remove plutonium from host substrates. Current major pyrochemical processes ranging from the classical calcination-fluorination-“bomb reduction” sequence to new techniques under development are reviewed. Each process is presented and brief descriptions of the production equipment are given.
Lowering The Percolation Threshold In Carbon Blackfilled Polymer Composites

In an effort to lower the percolation threshold of carbon black-filled polymer composites, various polymer microstructures were examined. Composites prepared with a polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) latex and a poly(vinyl acetate - ethylene) water-dispersible powder showed a significantly lowered percolation threshold relative to an equivalently prepared composite that used a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution to form the matrix phase. The percolation threshold of the dispersion-based composites occurred at 5 vol.% carbon black, while the equivalent solutionbased composite produced a threshold at 14 vol.%. By excluding the carbon black from regions occupied by polymeric particles, the dispersion-based composites lead to preferential aggregation of carbon black, as evidenced by SEM, and a lowered percolation threshold.
Rice yellow mottle virus in West Africa

Abstract The incidence and severity of rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) Sobemovirus group was monitored in various rice‐growing areas of West Africa. Its presence or absence was determined by symptomatology and serological tests. RYMV was found in all the rice environments but at different levels of incidence and severity of the disease which appeared to depend on the type of variety planted, the rice environment and vegetation zones. Graminaceous weeds, including some wild rice species, were confirmed as alternative hosts for RYMV. Twenty‐five rice cultivars comprising local and locally developed cultivars were resistant to RYMV. Most of these cultivars showed stable resistance to rice blast (Pyricularia oryzae (Cavara). The occurrence of RYMV symptoms on some uninoculated plants indicated the possibility of the virus being transmitted either by the beetle vector or through being carried on the seed.
Superoxide dismutase activity (erythrocuprein) in Wilson's disease

Abstract Erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (erythrocuprein) levels were determined in cells from normal subjects and from patients with Wilson's disease. The concentration of this copper-containing enzyme was essentially identical in both groups, even though serum ceruloplasmin was markedly reduced, or absent, in Wilson's disease. The observed concentration of the dismutase confirms previous results by others using immunochemical procedures. Extended therapy with D-penicillamine resulted in a 25 to 43% decrease in superoxide dismutase activity, and an 81 to 99% decrease in serum ceruloplasmin. Our results indicate that erythrocuprein levels are independent of serum ceruloplasmin concentration.
Resection of olfactory groove meningiomas: technical note revisited.

BACKGROUND Although large olfactory groove meningiomas present in the midline, tumor volume is often unequally distributed to one side. Most surgeons favor a bifrontal craniotomy with retraction or partial resection of the frontal lobes to resect these tumors. However, frontal lobe retraction is not without complications. METHODS We present a technical note regarding the resection of these large olfactory groove meningiomas. We describe the advantages of a unilateral frontal craniotomy complemented with orbital osteotomy. RESULTS The orbital osteotomy has considerably reduced the need for frontal lobe retraction and avoids partial resection of the frontal lobe to uncap the tumor. Utilizing this approach we have been able to remove the tumor from one side, followed by an incision to the falx cerebri in order to remove the tumor from the other side. With this approach, we have gained excellent visualization of the tumor in its entirety. Moreover, this approach permits the surgeon to intercept the arteries emerging from the skull base during the initial stages of the procedure. CONCLUSIONS Unilateral frontal craniotomy and orbital osteotomy has obviated the need to retract or resect the frontal lobe when resecting large olfactory groove meningiomas, which extend to either side of the falx. Because surgery is performed from one side, olfaction may also be preserved on the contralateral side.
Disparity in Total Joint Arthroplasty Patient Comorbidities, Demographics, and Postoperative Outcomes Based on Insurance Payer Type

Little is known about how patient characteristics differ between insurance types. We reviewed 293 consecutive primary total joint arthroplasty patients with 12-month follow-up and stratified them based on insurance type. As compared with patients with either Medicare or private insurance, Medicaid patients traveled an extra 160 to 170 miles for access to care, both Iowa Care and Medicaid were more than 3 times more likely to be current smokers, and both Iowa Care and Medicaid had lower preoperative and 12-month postoperative 36-Item Short Form Health Survey and WOMAC outcomes scores. Payer type was a significant predictor of 36-Item Short Form Health Survey physical function at final follow-up in a multivariate analysis. Significant disparities exist between patients with different insurance payer types in total joint arthroplasty, and further research into these differences is necessary.
The Circulatory System: Blood Procurement, AIDS, and the Social Body in China

The market for blood thrived in China for more than a decade preying on rural villagers desperate for cash. Profit motives and unhygienic collection created an AIDS epidemic where now up to 80 percent of adults in some villages are HIV infected. Today illegal blood banks continue to operate in some areas. Moreover better screening and blood testing do little to address the underlying cultural reluctance to give blood. This article examines what is at stake for blood donors in the circulation of blood through both the physical and the social bodies in China today. I argue that public health and social policy solutions require consideration of the symbolic meanings of blood and the body kin relations and gift exchange. Chinas HIV-contaminated blood procurement crisis demands a critical reexamination of the hidden processes embedded in a "circulatory system" that has inseparably bound the "gift of life" and a "commodity of death." (authors)
Synthesis of Hybrid Lipid Probes: Derivatives of Phosphatidylethanolamine-Extended Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-Bisphosphate (Pea-PIP2)

The total asymmetric synthesis of a novel hybrid lipid possessing a 2,3-diacylthreitol backbone, rather than a 1,2-diacylglycerol backbone, is described. The title compound, Pea-PIP(2), possesses a phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) headgroup at the 1-position and a phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P(2)) headgroup at the 4-position. Reporters (biotin, fluorophores, spin label) were covalently attached to the free amino group of the PE, such that these reporters were targeted to the lipid-water interface. The diacyl moieties allow incorporation of Pea-PIP(2) into a lipid bilayer, while the PtdIns(4,5)P(2) moiety in the aqueous layer was specifically recognized by PtdIns(4,5)P(2)-specific binding proteins.
Molecular dynamics simulation of a dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine bilayer with NaCl.

Molecular dynamics simulations are performed on two hydrated dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine bilayer systems: one with pure water and one with added NaCl. Due to the rugged nature of the membrane/electrolyte interface, ion binding to the membrane surface is characterized by the loss of ion hydration. Using this structural characterization, binding of Na+ and Cl− ions to the membrane is observed, although the binding of Cl− is seen to be slightly weaker than that of Na+. Dehydration is seen to occur to a different extent for each type of ion. In addition, the excess binding of Na+ gives rise to a net positive surface charge density just outside the bilayer. The positive density produces a positive electrostatic potential in this region, whereas the system without salt shows an electrostatic potential of zero.
959-103 A Systematic Approach to the Evaluation of Chest Pain in the Emergency Department: A Prospective Risk Assessment and Treatment Protocol Based on Patient Presentation, ECG and Rest Technetium 99m-Sestamibi

Ideal treatment of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and unstable angina (UA) require rapid evaluation and triage in the ED. Appropriate patient triage and disposition can reduce admissions and optimize resource utilization including reduced CCU length of stay (LOS). Historically less than 20 percent of patients admitted with chest pain (CP) rule in for AMI. However, all patients must be initially evaluated in the same fashion until the risk of AMI or UA can be determined and appropriate treatment initiated. Given the diagnostic limitation of the presenting symptoms and initial ECG, we designed and are prospectively testing a systemic protocol to evaluate all patients who present to the ED with CP. All patients are assigned to one of five levels based on risk and probability of AMI and of ischemia: 1. AMI; 2. Probable AMI/UA; 3. Possible AMI/UA; 4. Possible UA; and 5. Non-cardiac CP. In the absence of a diagnostic ECG needed for assignment to level l, (ST elevation), or level 2, (ST depression), immediate injection of Tc99m-sestamibi in the ED is used to further stratify patients in levels 3 and 4. If the evaluation of any given patient becomes positive, the assigned level is increased to one of higher risk with appropriate changes in therapy. Since January 1994, 560 patients with potential cardiac chest pain have been enrolled into levels 1–4. Level 5 patients were treated for obvious non-cardiac causes. Predicted risk of AMI with distribution of patients and actual incidence of AMI is as follows: Level Predicted Risk of AMI % Patients AMI (%) CCU LOS 1 g95% 4% 100% 2.9 days 2 50-95% 31% 21% 1.7 days 3 5-50% 23% 3% 21 hrs 4 l5% 42% 0% 0 There were no in-hospital deaths in any of these patients. This protocol appears safe, can be systematically applied to include all patients who present with CP, and will thus help maximize resource utilization by appropriately triaging patients and reducing LOS.
Effects of aging on spinal opioid-induced antinociception.

Abstract Initial experiments were conducted to determine whether or not the aging process alters the ability of young, mature, or aged male Fischer 344 rats (5- to 6-, 15- to 16-, and 25- to 26-months-old, respectively) to respond to thermal nociceptive stimuli. Using the tail-flick analgesiometric assay, 25- to 26-month-old rats responded significantly faster to the heat source than 15- to 16-month-old animals, but no significant differences were noted between the 5- to 6-month-old and aged rats. Another series of investigations compared the effects of aging on the spinal antinociceptive properties of the μ opioid agonist [D-Ala2,N-methyl-Phe4,Gly5-ol] enkephalin (DAMPGO) and the δ agonist [D-Pen2,D-Pen5] enkephalin (DPDPE). In these studies, young, mature, and aged rats were injected intrathecally (IT) with different doses of DAMPGO or DPDPE, and opioid-induced antinociception was tested on the tail-flick test. All three age groups responded to IT DAMPGO in a dose-dependent manner but, for the most part, higher spinal doses were required to produce significant elevations in tail-flick latency in the aged cohort of rats. The spinal analgesic effects of DPDPE also declined with advanced age. The aging process apparently alters the pain-inhibitory function of μ and δ opioid receptors in the rat spinal cord.
Spatial variation in population density affects dispersal behavior in brush mice

Population density can influence all three phases of natal dispersal: departure from the place of birth, searching the landscape, and selecting a new site in which to settle. The direction of the effect of density on dispersal should be affected by the relative costs and benefits of living in an area with high population density. Animals may benefit from high population density due to mate availability and predator risk dilution, but may also face increased competition in high density areas. These conflicting mechanisms should influence the pattern of change in population density between pre- and post-dispersal locations: do dispersing individuals choose to move to areas of higher or lower population density than that at their natal site? We examined the influence of density on dispersal in brush mice (Peromyscus boylii). We documented pre- and post-dispersal locations of individuals using both radio telemetry and live-trapping, and used a spatially explicit capture–recapture model to estimate density across the landscape. We also tested for a relationship between dispersal distance and local population density at the natal site. Animals tended to settle in areas with higher population densities than where they were born. This pattern held when landscape-level changes in population density were incorporated: the magnitude of change in local population density between the pre- and post-dispersal locations of a given individual tended to be greater than would be explained by increasing population density across the landscape alone. Further, dispersal distances were shorter when local natal population density was higher.
Separation of uranium from other metals by partition chromatography

Uranium(VI) can be separated quantitatively from most other metal ions by partition chromatography on a silica-gel column. The column is treated with aqueous 6M nitric acid; after sorption of the sample, uranium(VI) is selectively and rapidly eluted by methyl isobutyl ketone. In addition to the separation of macro quantities of metal ions, the method has been used successfully for the isolation of trace amounts of metal ions from uranium(VI).
Molecular cloning of three zebrafish lin7 genes and their expression patterns in the retina

The vertebrate retina develops from an undifferentiated sheet of neuroepithelial cells, whose differentiation requires the generation and maintenance of the correct cellular polarity. To examine the role of cell polarity in retinal development, we cloned three zebrafish lin7 genes (lin7a, lin7b, and lin7c), which each encodes a protein candidate that is required for generation/maintenance of neuroepithelial cell junctions. These three zebrafish Lin7 proteins share over 78% amino acid identity and contain both L27 and PDZ domains that are present in all Lin7 homologs. Immunoblots revealed that the Lin7b and Lin7c proteins were first expressed in the developing eye by 24hr postfertilization (hpf), while Lin7a was not detected in the eye until 72 hpf. At 33 hpf, the Lin7 proteins localized at, or slightly apical of, the actin-associated adherens junctions in the retinal neuroepithelium. This subcellular distribution required the expression of the Nok protein. In the absence of Nok, the Lin7 proteins failed to localize to either the ectopic adherens junctions or the cell membrane. At 4 days postfertilization, in situ hybridisation revealed that all three lin7 genes were expressed in both the ganglion cell layer and the bipolar cell region of the inner nuclear layer. The lin7a gene was also expressed in the amacrine and horizontal cell regions of the inner nuclear layer, while lin7c was also expressed in the outer nuclear layer. In the adult retina, where Lin7a is the predominant form expressed, the Lin7 proteins were localized to the outer and inner plexiform layers, the bipolar and horizontal cells of the inner nuclear layer, and the ganglion cells. These results suggest that the three zebrafish Lin7 proteins possess partially redundant, yet essential, roles in retinal development.
Quantum-beat phenomena described by quantum electrodynamics and neoclassical theory

We propose and analyze the use of quantum-beat phenomena to test neoclassical radiation theory (NCT) and quantum electrodynamics (QED). For a beam-foil type of experiment with atoms having one upper level and two closely spaced lower levels, all coherently excited, NCT predicts the presence of quantum beats in the emitted radiation; beats are not expected in QED. QED predicts beats when many atoms are present, in agreement with recent photon-echo experiments. An experiment to test NCT and QED is suggested.
Crown retention with three resin-modified glass ionomer luting agents

Background The author used a standardized technique to investigate the retentive properties of three resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) cements in the cementation of precious gold copings.
The nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequence of a rat cysteine string protein

Cysteine string proteins are novel, heavily lipidated components of synaptic vesicles. They have previously been studied in Drosophila (insect) and Torpedo (fish). To facilitate further investigation of the structure and function of these proteins in mammals, we isolated and sequenced the cDNA and conducted an initial characterization of a rat cysteine string protein. Nucleotide sequencing reveals that this rat protein is highly homologous to the insect and fish cysteine string proteins. At the amino acid level, the fish and rat proteins are 82% identical. The rat cysteine string protein is encoded by an approximately 5 kb mRNA that is ubiquitously expressed in rat brain. Using antibodies that cross-react with the rat protein, we find that the rat cysteine string protein is predominantly associated with nerve endings and synaptic vesicles. Moreover, like its Torpedo (fish) counterpart, it is extensively fatty acylated. It will be of considerable interest to ascertain the functional correlates of these cross-species similarities of cysteine string proteins.
Sample entropy analysis of local field potential in generalized flash suppression

Generalized flash suppression (GFS) is a visual illusion that produce perceptual suppression despite constant retinal input, which thereby provides a rare opportunity to study neural mechanisms directly related to perception [1]. Previous study has shown that local field potential (LFP) reflects perceptual suppression in monkey visual cortex with linear analysis techniques [2]. Yet, considering the fundamentally nonlinear nature of neural dynamics, we set forth to study the LFP difference of perceptual suppression with a nonlinear method. Specifically, we apply sample entropy to quantify the complexity of LFP activity. Our results showed that with sample entropy, the neural activity in visual area V1 revealed significantly perception-related changes. The higher entropy of LFP in the invisible condition indicates that neurons may produce more complex patterns to induce perceptual suppression.
Implementing Landscape Water Conservation in Public School Institutional Settings: A Case for Situational Problem Solving

Kilgren, Douglas C., Joanna Endter-Wada, Roger K. Kjelgren, and Paul G. Johnson, 2010. Implementing Landscape Water Conservation in Public School Institutional Settings: A Case for Situational Problem Solving. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 46(6):1205–1220. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-1688.2010.00486.x Abstract: Urban water conservation programs and research generally focus on residential and commercial use while paying less attention to institutional settings. We studied irrigated landscape water conservation at public schools, controlling for type of irrigation system (manual vs. automated control) and water conservation interventions (control, directive, prescriptive, and educational). We monitored landscape water use to compare changes among interventions and irrigation systems to measured plant water needs and historical use. Interviews and diaries allowed the study of behavior among custodians managing landscape irrigation. Large irrigation system effects overshadowed impact of the interventions. Schools using automated systems had high landscape water use and substantial capacity for water conservation but actual savings varied among schools. Schools using manual systems were the opposite yet many still managed further reductions in response to interventions. Effectiveness of water conservation interventions depended upon the contexts in which they were applied. Interventions were more effective when they led to situational problem solving that integrated generalized scientific and technical knowledge with experiential knowledge. Our findings suggest ways for school districts to decide where, when, and how to intervene in promoting water conservation but caution school districts investing in automated-irrigation systems, particularly if they will be operated remotely.
Deep Brain Stimulation in a Case of Mitochondrial Disease

Background DBS has proven to be an effective therapy for Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, and primary dystonia. Mixed results have been reported in case series for other hyperkinetic disorders, and sparse data are available regarding secondary movement disorders. We report on the clinical effects of bilateral globus pallidus internus (GPi) DBS, a progressive mitochondrial cytopathy. Methods A single patient with myoclonus and dystonia syndrome secondary to a mitochondrial cytopathy with history of perinatal hypoxia was identified from our University of Florida DBS database. Demographics, clinical, surgical, and DBS data were documented. Results At 6 months post-DBS, we observed a 32% (361 to 527) improvement on quality of life (36-item Medical Outcome Study Short-Form Health Survey; SF-36). Objective clinical scales revealed a 33% (143 to 96) improvement in the Unified Myoclonus Rating Scale (UMRS) total score. The UMRS action myoclonus subsection revealed a 29% (69 to 46) improvement. No significant changes were observed in the Burke-Fahn-Mardsen Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS). After 1-year follow-up, a worsening of 59% (527 to 215) was observed in the SF-36 scale, of 19% (28.5 to 35) in the BFMDRS, and of 23% (96 to 124) in the UMRS. However, the frequency and intensity of action myoclonus scores remained lower when compared to baseline scores. Conclusions Although we observed a loss of benefit in the long term for most quality-of-life and clinical outcomes, the DBS effects on action myoclonus seemed to remain stable. Longer follow-up studies are necessary to confirm our short-term and unblinded findings.
Backyard chickens in the United States: A survey of flock owners

Although it has become increasingly popular to keep backyard chickens in the United States, few studies have provided information about these flocks. An online survey of backyard chicken owners was conducted, advertised through Master Gardeners' websites, social platforms, and other sites. The survey had 56 questions about flock history, husbandry, health care, and owner attitudes and demographics. Surveys received (n = 1,487) came almost equally from urban, suburban, and rural areas. Most (71%) respondents owned fewer than 10 chickens and had kept chickens for less than 5 yr (70%). Major reasons for keeping chickens were as food for home use (95%), gardening partners (63%), pets (57%), or a combination of these. Rural respondents had larger flocks (P ≤ 0.001) and were more likely to keep chickens as a source of income or for show (P ≤ 0.001) than urban and suburban respondents. Owners thought that eggs/meat from their chickens were more nutritious (86%), safer to consume (84%), and tasted better (95%) than store-bought products, and also that the health and welfare of their chickens was better (95%) than on commercial farms. The majority (59%) indicated no flock health problems in the last 12 mo. However, there was a lack of awareness about some poultry health conditions. Many knew either little or nothing about exotic Newcastle or Marek's disease, and most (61%) did not vaccinate against Marek's. Respondents wanted to learn more about various flock management topics, especially how to detect (64%) and treat (66%) health problems. The Internet was the main source of information (87%) used by backyard flock owners, followed by books/magazines (62%) and feed stores (40%). Minimizing predation was the most cited challenge (49%), followed by providing adequate feed at low cost (28%), dealing with soil management (25%), and complying with zoning regulations (23%). The evidence obtained from this survey will help to determine what information and resources are needed to maintain good biosecurity and improve the health and welfare of backyard flocks.
A Multi-Camera 6-DOF Pose Tracker

Most of the work in head-pose tracking has concentrated on single-camera systems with a relatively small field of view which have limited accuracy because features are only observed in a single viewing direction. We present a multi-camera pose tracker that handles an arbitrary configuration of cameras rigidly fixed to the observer's head. By using multiple cameras, we increase the robustness and accuracy by which a 6-DOF pose is tracked. However, in a multi-camera rig setting, earlier methods for determining the unknown pose from three world-to-camera correspondences are no longer applicable. We present a RANSAC [Random sample consensus: a paradigm for model fitting with application to image analysis and automated cartography] based method that handles multi-camera rigs by using a fast non-linear minimization step in each RANSAC round.
IMAGING OF GROWTH DISTRUBANCE IN CHILDREN

Disturbance of skeletal growth occurs often in children and results in considerable lifelong disability. When acquired, it is most frequently post-traumatic but may also be caused by other insults, such as infection, ischemia, tumoral lesions, and radiation. 15 The complications of growth disturbance (leg length discrepancy, angular deformity, and altered joint mechanics) cause significant morbidity. MR imaging, with its ability to depict the cartilaginous structures of developing bones, has become the modality of choice for evaluating children with growth disorders and directing surgical management. An understanding of normal enchondral ossification and the anatomy of the ends of growing bones is essential for appreciation of the MR imaging findings in such patients.
The Effects of X-rays on the Embryonal Growth and Development of Hordeum vulgare L.

The effects of softer X-rays as an external agent on the developing embryos were manifested by a number of abnormalities such as enlargement and vacuo lation of cells, disturbances in cell walls, disintegration of cells leading to the formation of cavities, disturbances in distribution of meristematic tissues, a num ber of proliferations in different parts of the embryo, and retarded growth of the embryo during the early post-radiation period. In addition to these, deeply stained globular cytoplasmic bodies were observed in radiated embryonic cells. Very similar kinds of abnormalities were produced by softer X-rays starting from 400 r. and including 800 r. The frequency of occurrence and degree of prolifera tions in embryos irradiated with 800 r., however, were relatively higher than those produced by 400 r. and 500 r. Treatments with 300 r. units of irradiation induced only the appearance of deeply stained globular bodies within cytoplasm and no effects were visible with dosages below 300 r. Comparative measurements of cell lengths of the treated and control embryos at undifferentiated as well as at differen tiated stages showed an increase in cell-lengths within radiated embryos. Radiated embryos showed defective pattern of germination. Harder X-rays were found to be less effective in inducing embryonic abnormalities than softer rays when equal calculated dosages of the two were applied to the flowering spikes of Hordeum vulgare L.
A Rare Case of Recurrent Frontal Osteoma Complicated by Mucopyocele with an Unusual Organism, Moraxella catarrhalis

Objective We report a rare case of recurrent frontal osteoma complicated by mucopyocele and intracranial abscess. Furthermore, we report an unusual organism, Moraxella catarrhalis , as the infectious agent. Finally, we demonstrate that endovascular embolization may be part of the treatment paradigm of frontal osteomas in selected cases. Case Description A 71-year-old man with a previous history of craniotomy presented to the emergency room with 24 hours of headache episodes, confusion, lethargy, and spells of low-grade fever. Imaging and angiography revealed a complex frontal lesion involving the frontoethmoidal sinuses that extended into the medial orbit and anterior skull base with multiple feeding vessels from the middle meningeal artery. The initial diagnosis of recurrent meningioma was made based on imaging data. The patient underwent partial angiographic embolization of the lesion followed by microneurosurgical complete resection. Pathology revealed a synchronous presentation of an osteoma and mucopyocele with intracranial abscess caused by M. catarrhalis . Conclusion Synchronous presentation of a frontal osteoma with mucopyocele is a rare event. However, the case of a recurrent osteoma complicated by infection with M. catarrhalis has not been reported in the literature, nor a treatment paradigm that included preoperative partial endovascular embolization.
Thermal-Lens-Induced Anomalous Solvent's effect on Fluorescence Produced by Two-Photon Continuous-Wave Laser Excitation.

Measurements of two-photon-excited fluorescence (TPF) of fluorescein and Rhodamine 6G in various solvents were performed with a continuous-wave (cw) laser for excitation and an acousto-optic tunable filter for spectral dispersion. Interestingly, the cw laser excitation produced an unwanted thermal-lens effect when the measurements were performed in solvents that absorb the excitation laser light (e.g., alcohols and water, because these solvents absorb the 780-nm excitation light through the overtone and combination transitions of the O—H group). The defocusing effect of the thermal lens leads to a decrease in the TPF signal. Because the strength of the thermal lens depends on the thermo-optical properties (dn/dT and thermal conductivity) of the solvent, its interference makes the effect of solvents on the TPF much different from those on one-photon-excited fluorescence. However, the thermal-lens interference will not limit the application of this cw laser excited TPF technique because, even when measurements were performed in solvents that absorb cw excitation laser light, the thermal-lens interference was observed only in solvents such as nonpolar organic solvents that have relatively better thermo-optical properties. Interference was not observed in water, which is the most widely used solvent for the TPF technique (because water has poor thermo-optical properties).
Global sensitivity analysis for complex ecological models: a case study of riparian cottonwood population dynamics

Mechanism-based ecological models are a valuable tool for understanding the drivers of complex ecological systems and for making informed resource-management decisions. However, inaccurate conclusions can be drawn from models with a large degree of uncertainty around multiple parameter estimates if uncertainty is ignored. This is especially true in nonlinear systems with multiple interacting variables. We addressed these issues for a mechanism-based, demographic model of Populus fremontii (Fremont cottonwood), the dominant riparian tree species along southwestern U.S. rivers. Many cottonwood populations have declined following widespread floodplain conversion and flow regulation. As a result, accurate predictive models are needed to analyze effects of future climate change and water management decisions. To quantify effects of parameter uncertainty, we developed an analytical approach that combines global sensitivity analysis (GSA) with classification and regression trees (CART) and Random Forest, a bootstrapping CART method. We used GSA to quantify the interacting effects of the full range of uncertainty around all parameter estimates, Random Forest to rank parameters according to their total effect on model predictions, and CART to identify higher-order interactions. GSA simulations yielded a wide range of predictions, including annual germination frequency of 10-100%, annual first-year survival frequency of 0-50%, and patch occupancy of 0-100%. This variance was explained primarily by complex interactions among abiotic parameters including capillary fringe height, stage-discharge relationship, and floodplain accretion rate, which interacted with biotic factors to affect survival. Model precision was primarily influenced by well-studied parameter estimates with minimal associated uncertainty and was virtually unaffected by parameter estimates for which there are no available empirical data and thus a large degree of uncertainty. Therefore, research to improve model predictions should not always focus on the least-studied parameters, but rather those to which model predictions are most sensitive. We advocate the combined use of global sensitivity analysis, CART, and Random Forest to: (1) prioritize research efforts by ranking variable importance; (2) efficiently improve models by focusing on the most important parameters; and (3) illuminate complex model properties including nonlinear interactions. We present an analytical framework that can be applied to any model with multiple uncertain parameter estimates.
An fMRI Investigation of Racial Paralysis

We explore the existence and underlying neural mechanism of a new norm endorsed by both black and white Americans for managing interracial interactions: "racial paralysis', the tendency to opt out of decisions involving members of different races. We show that people are more willing to make choices--such as who is more intelligent, or who is more polite-between two white individuals (same-race decisions) than between a white and a black individual (cross-race decisions), a tendency which was evident more when judgments involved traits related to black stereotypes. We use functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine the mechanisms underlying racial paralysis, to examine the mechanisms underlying racial paralysis, revealing greater recruitment of brain regions implicated in socially appropriate behavior (ventromedial prefrontal cortex), conflict detection (anterior cingulate cortex), deliberative processing (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex), and inhibition (ventrolateral prefrontal cortex). We also discuss the impact of racial paralysis on the quality of interracial relations.
Magnetoelasticity of bcc Fe–Ga Alloys

Publisher Summary The study of Fe–Ga and related alloys is an active frontier research effort. This chapter provides some insightful understanding of the large magnetostriction observed in this family of materials. Excellent agreement between theory and experiment has been achieved for the Fe–Ga zone I composition alloys. Here, Ga atoms are far apart from each other and they enhance the magnetostriction “locally.” The large magnetostriction of Fe–Ga in this region is caused by intrinsic electronic properties, rather than by the formation of heterogeneous precipitations or nanoparticle. Density functional studies and rigid band model analysis are useful to address the most fundamental issues regarding magnetostriction in intermetallic alloys; valuable predictions are made available for experimentation.
A bidirectional load applicator for the investigation of skin response to mechanical stress

Instrumentation was developed to apply controlled biaxial (normal and shear) forces to the skin of a human or animal subject. The instrument mimicked any reference waveform within the constraints of a bandwidth of 15 Hz, a maximum force of 20 N, and displacement ranges of 15 mm for the normal direction and 18 mm for the shear direction. Two shaker motors, positioned with their axes parallel, were used with a low effective mass linkage and small-angle rotational joints to deliver the force. A digital feedback controller independently controlled the instantaneous normal and shear forces and recorded the resultant displacements. Evaluations on human and animal (pig) subjects demonstrated mean absolute errors between the applied and reference waveforms of less than 1.2% full-scale output for both the normal and shear directions. No degradation in performance was apparent over the course of a 1-h loading session. The instrument is to be used for the investigation of skin adaptation to mechanical stress, information that could be used to design new therapeutic methods to encourage skin load-tolerance.
Infestation and spatial dependence of weed seedling and mature weed populations in corn

Abstract Knowing the distribution of weed seedlings in farmer-managed fields could help researchers develop reliable distribution maps for site-specific weed management. With a knowledge of the spatial arrangement of a weed population, cost effective sampling programs and management strategies can be designed, so inputs can be selected and applied to specific field areas where management is warranted. In 1997 and 1998, weeds were sampled at 612 to 682 sites in two center pivot irrigated corn fields (71 and 53 ha) in eastern Colorado. Weeds were enumerated when corn reached the two-leaf, four-leaf, and physiological maturity stages in a 76.2- by 76.2-m grid, a random-directed grid where sites were established at intervals of 76.2 m, and a star configuration based on a 7.62- by 7.62-m grid within three 23,225 m2 areas. Directional correlograms were calculated for 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150° from the crop row. Fifteen weed species were observed across fields. Spatial dependence occurred in 7 of the 93 sampl...
The Role of Science, Technology and Innovation Policies and Instruments for a Paradigm Shift Towards Sustainable Development

There is an increased recognition that Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) can spur inclusive and sustainable development in multiple ways. For STI to be a driver for sustainable development it is important that Development Agendas are people-centered, creating an enabling environment for the power of STI to be a harness for development. This implies that countries and regions have to develop, implement and monitor their national and regional STI policies and programs that promote knowledge production, dissemination and utilization as well as the development and appropriation of technologies that spur innovation not only at large production facilities but also at grassroots level, involving small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as part of a broader development agenda. These frameworks require that special attention is given to human capital development, a fundamental block of any sustainable development agenda, and to governance mechanisms that promote broader participation in decision making in STI related issues, in particular promoting the participation of vulnerable groups such women, youth, Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) and indigenous people. This paper argues that STI policies need to be transversal, cross–cutting policies that support and build the structural pillars for sustainable development and through dialogue, engage the wide range of development stakeholders. It also explores the ways UNESCO intervenes in this strategic area for development through the design, planning, formulation, monitoring and evaluation of national and regional STI strategies and policies (including reforms), as well as thorough building the national and regional capacities in science and in public policy development, and the development of national, regional and global fora on STI and development.
Bandwidth and power constrained distributed vector estimation in wireless sensor networks

We address bandwidth and power constrained distributed vector estimation problem in a wireless sensor network where sensors observe a common unknown zero-mean Gaussian random vector with a known covariance matrix. Sensors transmit their quantized and digitally modulated correlated observations to a fusion center (FC), over orthogonal channels subject to fading and additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN). We assume the FC employs the linear mean square error (LMMSE) estimator to estimate the unknown vector and the WSN is subject to total bandwidth (measured in quantization bits) and total transmit power constraints. We provide an upper bound on the mean square error (MSE) distortion at the FC and investigate the optimal quantization bit and transmit power allocation among sensors such that this bound is minimized. The bound consists of two terms, where the first and second terms, respectively, account for the MSE distortion due to quantization and communication channel errors. Therefore, we find the bit allocation that minimizes the first distortion term. Given the optimal bit allocation, we obtain the power allocation that minimizes the second distortion term. Our simulation results corroborate our analysis and show that our proposed bit and power allocation scheme outperforms uniform bit and power allocation scheme.
Seismic soil–structure interaction analysis of a nuclear power plant building founded on soil and in degraded concrete stiffness condition

Abstract This study describes three-dimensional (3-D) finite element (FE) modeling and seismic Soil-Structure Interaction (SSI) analysis of a Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) Diesel Generator Building (DGB) that is founded on soil in degraded concrete stiffness condition. A new technique is presented that uses two horizontal and vertical FE models to consider the concrete stiffness reduction of NPP buildings subjected to orthogonal ground motion excitations, in which appropriate stiffness reduction factors, based on the input motion orientation, are applied. Seismic SSI analysis is performed for each model separately, and dynamic responses are calculated in the three global directions. The results of the analysis for the two FE models are then combined, using the square-root-of-the-sum-of-squares (SRSS) combination rule. A sensitivity analysis is also performed to investigate the subsurface profile effect on the In-Structure (acceleration) Response Spectra (ISRS) of the building when subjected to site-specific Foundation Input Response Spectra (FIRS) that exhibit high spectral amplifications in the high-frequency range. The sensitivity analysis considers three strain-compatible subsurface profiles that represent Lower-Bound (LB), Best-Estimate (BE), and Upper-Bound (UB) conditions at the DGB site. The sensitivity analysis results indicate that the seismic response of the DGB founded on soil highly depends on the subsurface profile; i.e., each of the LB, BE, and UB subsurface profiles can maximize building seismic response when subjected to FIRS that exhibit high spectral amplifications in the high-frequency range. Therefore, it is important to consider SSI parameter variability in the seismic design or evaluation of NPP buildings that bear on soil.
Third Circuit Hears Arguments About Controversial Delaware Chancery Arbitration Program

The Third Circuit Court of Appeals is currently considering the constitutionality of a controversial arbitration program established in the Delaware Court of Chancery that allows sitting judges to arbitrate disputes. The case raises important and path-breaking constitutional issues of First Amendment access, judicial power and state choice. The case also raises new questions about dispute resolution systems design. This article outlines the underlying case, questions on appeal, and potential outcomes.
Effects of label-dose permethrin administration in yearling beef cattle: I. Bull reproductive function and testicular histopathology.

Abstract Pyrethroid administration to a wide variety of laboratory animals has been shown to cause detrimental effects on male fertility, including sperm quality, by means of endocrine disruption. The objective of this experiment was to study the effects of a commercial, permethrin-containing pour-on product on reproductive variables and testicular histopathology of yearling beef bulls. Black Angus bulls (n = 60; aged 369 ± 17 days; 511 ± 33 kg; 6.2 ± 0.5 body condition scores) were assigned to either (1) saline control (CON) or (2) permethrin pour-on administered at label dose (PYR). Blood samples were collected, and industry standard breeding soundness examinations (BSE), via electroejaculation, were performed on all bulls at 5 days before and 14 days after treatment. Progressive sperm motility and eosin-nigrosin–stained sperm were analyzed using high-power phase-contrast microscopy. Plasma testosterone concentrations were analyzed via radioimmunoassay. Bulls were slaughtered at 34 days, and one testicle per bull was randomly collected for histologic examination. Change in sperm motility between BSEs was not different because of treatment; sperm morphology however improved across treatments, but PYR bulls had less improvement in percent of head (P
The Air-Coastal Sea Chemical Exchange: A Case Study on the New Jersey Coast

The coastal marine atmosphere adjacent to large urban and industrial centers is in general strongly impacted by pollution emissions, resulting in high loading of pollutants in the ambient air. Among the airborne substances are certain trace elements from a variety of emission sources that can serve as micronutrients to marine organisms in coastal waters. High concentrations of such elements in coastal air can result in enhanced air-to-sea deposition fluxes to coastal waters. They could also be transported over the open ocean, affecting the composition of the remote marine atmosphere and then ocean ecosystems. To provide better understanding of the extent of air-to-sea deposition processes on the New Jersey coast, a heavily polluted coastal region on the US East Coast, a synthesis of observation data was carried out for selected trace elements, including Fe, Cd, Cr and Cu, derived from measurements of both size-segregated and bulk aerosol particles, as well as precipitation around the New Jersey coast. The atmospheric input of Hg was also estimated based on measurement data. Results indicated that the total deposition fluxes of most trace elements were higher in Northern coastal NJ compared to Southern coastal NJ, reflecting the differences in the source strengths of these element emissions between the two coastal regions. Dry deposition processes were more significant for common dust-derived elements, particularly Fe and Al, compared with their wet deposition fluxes. However, the processes of precipitation scavenging appeared to be more important for the elements that were often enriched in fine particles including Zn, Cu, Pb and Ni. The removal of Hg from the ambient air was overwhelmingly dominated by atmospheric wet deposition. In the future, atmospheric measurements at more sites on the NJ coast should be performed simultaneously to reduce the spatial and temporal uncertainties associated with atmospheric deposition fluxes estimated in this study.