cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Distortion-induced fatigue cracking of bridge details with web gaps

Abstract Distortion-induced fatigue cracking from out-of-plane deformation in web gaps of bridge connection details is examined. This type of fatigue cracking results from interaction of various structural members during live loading of a structure and produces unanticipated distortion and high localized stresses. Although this type of problem is not confined to bridges, this paper focuses on bridge types and members that are susceptible to distortion-induced fatigue cracking at web gaps. This includes both plate-girder and box-girder bridges, as well as tied-arch bridges with box- and plate-girder members. Member details include transverse connection plates for cross-bracing and diaphragms, longitudinal gusset-plate details, and floor beam end connections. The crack development behavior is examined using field observations and measurements, as well as results from large-scale laboratory experiments. Recommendations for retrofitting distortion-induced fatigue damage are given, along with design alternatives to eliminate or minimize the occurrence of distortion-induced fatigue cracking.
Notional examples and benchmark aspects of a resilient control system

Digital control system technology has pervaded most industries, leading to improvements in the efficiency and reliability of the associated operations. However, the ease of distributing and connecting related control systems for the purposes of increasing performance has resulted in interdependencies that can lead to unexpected conditions. Even with less complex designs, operators and engineers alike are often left with competing goals that are difficult to resolve. A fundamental reason for this dichotomy is that responsibilities lie with different disciplines, and operations are hosted on separate control systems. In addition, with the rising awareness of cyber security and diverse human interactions with control systems, an understanding of human actions from a malicious and benevolent standpoint is necessary. Resilience considers the multiple facets of requirements that drive the performance of control systems in a holistic fashion, whether they are security or stability, stability or efficiency, human interactions or complex interdependencies. As will be shown by example, current research philosophies lack the depth or the focus on the control system application to satisfy these requirements, such as graceful degradation of hierarchical control while under cyber attack. A resilient control system promises to purposefully consider these diverse requirements, developing an adaptive capacity to complex events that can lead to failure of traditional control system designs.
A public health approach to adverse outcomes of pregnancy associated with bacterial vaginosis

Numerous studies have demonstrated that bacŽ . terial vaginosis BV is associated with adverse Ž . outcomes of pregnancy AOP , especially premature delivery and delivery of a low-birthweight w x infant 1 . BV is also associated with pelvic inŽ . flammatory disease PID and complications following gynecologic procedures, and is the most w x common cause of vaginitis in women 2 . No single organism causes BV, rather it is characterized by a change in the microbiologic flora of the vagina. Normally, nearly 90% of the vaginal miw x crobiologic flora 3 are Lactobacillus sp., in particular, lactobacilli that produce H O and lactic 2 2 acid. However, women with BV have fewer lactobacilli, are more likely to have a non-H O -pro2 2 w x ducing lactobacilli 4 , and have much higher
An objective measure of the motive to avoid appearing incompetent.

The development of a self-report measure of the motive to avoid appearing incompetent is discussed. The reliability coefficient (KR-20) obtained for the final form of the 36-item, true-false scale ...
Meromorphic solutions to the KdV equation with non-decaying initial data supported on a left half line

We show that under the Korteweg–de Vries flow an initial profile supported on (−∞, 0) from a very broad function class (without any decay assumption) instantaneously evolves into a meromorphic function with no poles on the real line. Our treatment is based on a suitable modification of the inverse scattering transform and a detailed investigation of the Titchmarsh–Weyl m-function. As a by-product, we improve some related results of others.
Feasibility of hydroxyl concentration measurements by laser-saturated fluorescence in high-pressure flames

The effect of pressure on the laser-saturated fluorescence method for measuring OH concentration in high-pressure flames is studied using calculations for the burned-gas region of a stoichiometric H2-O2 flame at 2000 K. A numerical model of the excitation dynamics of OH is developed to explore the validity of the balanced cross-rate model at higher pressures. It is shown that depopulation of the laser-coupled levels is sensitive to collisions which depopulate v-double-prime (VDP) = 0 and to rate coefficients for rotational transfer in the ground state which are smaller than those in the excited state. In particular, it is shown that the depopulation of VDP = 0, and hence the laser-coupled levels, depends on the probability of electronic quenching to vibrational levels for which VDP is greater than 0 and vibrational relaxation to VDP = 0.
The Role of Molecular Tests in Acute Myelogenous Leukemia Treatment Decisions

The prognosis for patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is dependent on age, karyotype, and the genetics of the neoplastic cell. The molecular markers with prognostic impact include mutations in FLT3, NPM1, MLL, WT1, c-KIT, and expression levels of BAALC, NM1, ERG, and CXCR4. Gene expression profiles and microRNA expression patterns in AML may prove highly useful in defining the prognosis of AML. Cytogenetic and, increasingly, molecular findings are used in determining the best therapy for AML patients, especially the choice of whether to perform allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
Dynamics of Pipes Conveying Fluid With a Non-Uniform Velocity Profile

Previous work on stability of fluid-conveying cantilever pipes assumed a uniform velocity profile for the conveyed fluid. In real fluid flows, the presence of viscosity leads to a sheared region near the wall. Earlier studies correctly note that viscous forces drop out of the system’s dynamics since the force of fluid shear on the wall is precisely balanced by pressure drop in the conveyed fluid. The effect of shear has therefore not been ignored in these studies. However, a uniform velocity profile assumes that the sheared region is infinitely thin. Prior analysis was extended to account for a fully developed non-uniform profile such as would be encountered in real fluid flows. A modified equation of motion was derived to account for the reduced momentum carried by the sheared fluid. Numerical analysis was carried out to determine a number of velocity profiles over the Reynolds number range of interest and a simple set of curve fits was used when finer discretization was required. Stability analysis of a pipe conveying fluid with these profiles was performed, and the results were compared to a uniform profile. The mass ratio, β , is the ratio of the fluid mass to the total system mass. At β = 0.2 , the non-uniform case becomes unstable at a critical velocity, ucr , that is 5.4% lower than the uniform case. The critical frequency, fcr , is 0.36% higher than the uniform case. A more sensitive region exists near β = 0.32 . There, the nonuniform velocity ucr is 23% lower than the uniform case and the non-uniform critical frequency fcr is 49% of the uniform case.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
A 4300 year strontium isotope record of estuarine paleosalinity in San Francisco Bay, California

Abstract Strontium isotopic compositions of carbonate mollusk shells from estuarine sediments cored beneath San Francisco Bay are used to derive a record of mean annual salinity and average freshwater inflow to the estuary for intervals during the past 4300 yrs. The large difference in the 87Sr/86Sr ratio between seawater (0.7092) and the average freshwater entering the estuary (0.7065) produces a correlation between 87Sr/86Sr and salinity in bay waters that can be detected with high-precision measurements. Paleosalinity is inferred from the 87Sr/86Sr ratio measured in fossil carbonate shells of bivalves preserved in the sediment. Because salinity in San Francisco Bay is primarily controlled by the freshwater inflow from the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers, the paleosalinity record can be converted to a paleodischarge record using a transfer function derived from historical data. Salinity data are referenced to modern values estimated for the estuary after correcting for the lower discharge caused by diversion since 1850 A.D. Data are presented from Richardson Bay, located near the estuary mouth (modern mear arrival salinity (MAS) of ca. 24‰), and from San Pablo Bay, located about 30 km upstream (modern MAS of ca. 18–20‰). For Richardson Bay, the data cover the periods 0–600 yrs B.P. and 2200–4300 yrs B.P., based on radiocarbon dating. For San Pablo Bay, the periods 0–130 yrs B.P. and 2500–2800 yrs B.P. are represented. The Richardson Bay data indicate extended periods of low salinity relative to modern, indicating higher freshwater inflow, at ca. 80, 220, 310, 440–500, 3100–3400 and 4300 yrs ago. The data indicate high salinity relative to modern, hence lower freshwater inflow, at about 40, 140–210, 270, 2100 and 3450–3700 yrs B.P. For San Pablo Bay, where salinity resolution is better, salinity was lower than modern during the period at ca. 50 and 2550–2650 yrs B.P., and higher than modern at ca 90–110, 155 and 2510–2530 yrs B.P. The data suggest that mean annual discharge to San Francisco Bay typically varies between values that are below the modern value (600 m3/s) and values 2 to 3 times as high; the average paleosalinity is typically substantially lower than the modern values. The 4300 yr average freshwater inflow is estimated to be ≥ 1200 ± 200 m3/s. The record indicates that quasi-cyclic variations in mean annual discharge occur naturally with a period of about 200 yrs or less.
Preliminary investigation of test-retest reliability of a robotic assessment for Parkinson's disease

Several systems have been proposed to objectively quantify the motor signs of Parkinson's disease. While validity has been investigated for a subset of these systems, test-retest reliability of automated assessments has been more neglected. We have created a protocol that uses a robotic system to measure force and position as the user performs tracking tasks with and without a simultaneous cognitive or motor task. We present preliminary results for test-retest reliability with eight individuals with early to moderate PD. Based on this data, we identified variables with large, significant correlations between the test and retest data. A total of 21 reliable variables were identified with all portions of the assessment protocol producing reliable variables.
The role of outdoor recreation in family enrichment

Abstract The family is the fundamental unit in society and perhaps the oldest and most important of all human institutions. Several studies have indicated a positive correlation between strong, successful families and family participation in outdoor recreational activities. This paper addresses the role of structured outdoor recreation programming in family enrichment. Findings from two studies based in the United States are presented: one on the effect of a one-day family outdoor adventure program on parental and child perceptions of family functioning and the other from a qualitative inquiry into the meaning of family residential camping experiences. The first study collected both quantitative and qualitative data from 24 families who participated in an 8-hour outdoor adventure program. The second study utilized structured interviews with 11 families participating in a residential camp experience. Findings from both studies demonstrate that structured outdoor family recreation programming has a strong p...
Computer assisted diagnosis for ophthalmology

Abstract A prototype program for computer assisted diagnosis in ophthalmology has been developed. The program uses Bayes' rule[1] to compute probabilities that a patient has a certain disease, given signs, symptoms and laboratory results. Probabilities used in making the diagnosis change with information from patients from whom a diagnosis has already been established. Therefore, as more information is accumulated about a particular disease, the computer becomes, on the average, a progressively better diagnostician.
The Modular Arithmetic of Arbitrarily Long Sequences of Digits

Some fundamental results in the area of computability theory are presented. These include the fact that a finite state machine can find the residue of an arbitrarily long sequence using any modulus and any radix. This leads to the consideration of using modular arithmetic on arbitrarily long sequences with a finite state machine. A finite state machine can perform modular addition, subtraction, multiplication, and, if defined, division of a pair of arbitrarily large numbers, using any modulus and any radix.
Trials and Errors: Principle and Pragmatism in Strategies of International Justice

Advocacy groups such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have made a historic contribution to the cause of international human rights by publicizing the need to prevent mass atrocities such as war crimes, genocide, and widespread political killings and torture.1 However, a strategy that many such groups favor for achieving this goal—the prosecution of perpetrators of atrocities according to universal standards—risks causing more atrocities than it would prevent, because it pays insufacient attention to political realities.2 Recent international criminal tribunals have utterly failed to deter subsequent abuses in the former Yugoslavia and Central Africa. Because tribunals, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), have often been unable to gain the active cooperation of powerful actors in the United States and in countries where abuses occur, it is questionable whether this strategy will succeed in the long run unless it is implemented in a more pragmatic way. Trials and Errors
Thrombocytosis and increased circulating platelet aggregates in newborn infants of polydrug users

Thirty-three prospectively studied neonates born to mothers using methadone plus other drugs developed significant thrombocytosis by the second week of life compared to platelet counts performed during the first week. This increase persisted for over 16 weeks, with a further short-lived significant peak at 10 weeks of age. Platelet counts exceeding 1,000,000/mm 3 were found in seven infants. Thrombocytosis was not related to withdrawal symptoms or treatment (phenobarbital or paregoric). No thrombocytosis was found in 36 normal control infants up to eight weeks of life. Twenty-eight of the study group infants were evaluated for circulating platelet aggregates. Thirteen patients had a normal aggregate index and a mean platelet count of 468,000/mm 3 ; 15 patients had increased aggregates and a mean platelet count of 754,000/mm 3 . The risk for increased circulating platelet aggregates correlated directly with an increase in platelet count. Thrombocytosis and increased circulating platelet aggregates may be factors in the pathogenesis of the focal infarcts, and subarachnoid and germinal plate hemorrhages, described at autopsy in infants of addicted mothers.
Fiber-optic link for intrasatellite RF communications

We propose an architecture for the duplex transmission of microwave/RF signals over a fiber-optic link. The link employs only one laser. The forward channel is implemented through laser intensity modulation, while the reverse channel uses an external modulator. We evaluate insertion gain, linear dynamic range and phase noise degradation for each of the two channels.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Surface Evolution during MBE Growth

The evolution of surfaces grown using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) is an interesting scientific issue as well as an important technological concern. In this review article we examine surface evolution during film growth from several different points of view. Experimental, simulational and analytical descriptions of the process are discussed.
Probabilistic localization for outdoor wireless sensor networks

Recent advances in wireless communication, low power sensors and microcontrollers enable the deployment of large-scale wireless sensor networks. Localization is a fundamental service required by many wireless sensor network applications. We consider a distributed, probabilistic approach, suitable for outdoor systems with inaccurate range measurements. The approach restricts the possible locations of the nodes by using a combination of positive and negative constraints. We reduce the computational complexity of the algorithm by using two-dimensional fast Fourier transforms (FFTs). We evaluated the proposed probabilistic approach through simulations based on real-world measurements; the results are compared with two other localization schemes and the Cramer-Rao lower bound (CRLB). The results show that, for inaccurate range measurements, the proposed probabilistic approach outperforms existing methods and approaches the CRLB.
Piezobirefringence in the vacuum ultraviolet: Alkali halides and alkaline‐earth fluorides

The spectral dependence of the piezobirefringence coefficients of NaCl, KCl, LiF, CaF2, SrF2, and BaF2, at room temperature is measured. From these results values for the shear deformation potentials of the energy bands are obtained. The LiF data suggest that the lowest interband edge occurs along [lll], a situation unique among the alkali halides. The data for the alkaline-earth fluorides indicate a rather complicated structure for the lowest absorption edge. Es wurde die spektrale Abhangigkeit der Piezo-Doppelbrechungskoeffizienten von NaCl, KCl, LiF, CaF2, SrF2, und BaF2, bei Zimmertemperatnr gemessen. Aus den Ergebnissen werden Werte fur die Potentiale der Scherungsdeformation der Energiebander erhalten. Die Werte fur LiF weisen darauf hin, das die niedrigste Interbandkante in Richtung [lll] auftritt, eine Situation, die unter den Alkalihalogeniden einzig ist. Die Werte fur die Erd-alkalifluoride zeigen eine ziemlich komplizierte Struktur fur die niedrigste Absorptionskante.
Adolescent Entertainment or Violence Training? The Hunger Games

Adolescence is a time of tremendous growth and development, both physically and emotionally. During this time, the adolescent is impressionable, especially from those they view as role models or whom they admire. Although intended as entertainment, the content and violence used in The Hunger Games has the potential to impact the concepts of the imaginary audience and personal fable that are prominent during adolescence. With this in mind, the authors provide a movie review of The Hunger Games and caution against allowing young audiences to view movies with such strong content without a discussion with them about the content of the movie. Finally, the authors will provide counseling implications and suggestions in working with adolescents who view movies and other forms of entertainment with similar content as that portrayed in The Hunger Games.
Early internet IPOs versus subsequent entrants

This paper examines whether investors in early Internet IPOs earned superior returns to those who invested in later entrants. We document three differences between early public firms in a new Internet technology and their followers: underpricing, operating characteristics at the IPO, and stock price performance after the IPO. We find that there is value in going public relatively early in a new Internet technology. Specifically, long-term returns are significantly higher for the early entrants. We also find evidence, consistent with previous studies that examine hot IPO markets, that the early public firms have better operating characteristics at the IPO than later entrants.
Frequency Effects and Second Language Acquisition: A Complex Picture?

In this response to Ellis's target article on frequency in language processing, language use, and language acquisition, we argue in favor of a role for frequency in several areas of second language acquisition, including interactional input and output and speech processing. We also discuss areas where second language acquisition appears to proceed along its own route and at its own pace regardless of the frequency of the input, as well as areas where input is infrequent but acquisition appears to be unimpeded. Our response is intended to highlight the complexity of the task of deciphering the role and importance of frequency.
Seizure inhibition and REM sleep: a possible neurohumoral relationship.

Several studies have shown a relationship between certain aspects of seizures and REM sleep. This study attempts to further investigate this. Cats were randomly assigned to being donors or recipients. Donors had a bilateral push-pull chemitrode system implanted in the ventral hippocampus, while recipients had push-pull cannulae implanted in the Midbrain Reticular Formation. Threshold after-discharges were obtained from the hippocampus of donor cats, and perfusates were obtained from the contralateral hippocampus during the post-ictal depression period. Such perfusates were then reperfused into the MRF of recipient cats and SWS and REM latencies were obtained and compared to controls. In addition, NE, 5-HT, Ach, and GABA were perfused in the hippocampus while the contralateral hippocampus was stimulated to induce after-discharges. These same substances were then perfused into the MRF in order to determine their effects on sleep latencies. Results showed that the post-ictal perfusate significantly reduced REM latencies when compared to all other perfusion tests, while only 5-HT and GABA inhibited after-discharges. These results are discussed in terms of the relationship between seizures and REM and with some aspects of their ontogeny and phylogeny.
Corporate governance reforms: fact or fiction?

Purpose – Reforms set forth in Sarbanes‐Oxley and the NYSE, AMEX, and NASD are designed to prevent the reoccurrence of corporate collapses at companies such as Enron Corp., WorldCom Inc., and Global Crossing Ltd. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the possible impact the reforms may or may not have had in controlling the abuses uncovered in recent corporate failures.Design/methodology/approach – This paper examines the reforms to corporate governance and the rationale behind the reforms, and examines how the actual governance structures of Enron, WorldCom, and Global Crossing during the years of their accounting scandals compared to the new requirements. It also offers a discussion as to whether the new reforms would have been helpful in preventing management's manipulation of earnings.Findings – Global Crossing's governance structure would have satisfied a majority of the reforms. Enron's and WorldCom's governance structures would have satisfied less than half of the reforms.Practical implications –...
An efficient representation for sparse sets

Sets are a fundamental abstraction widely used in programming. Many representations are possible, each offering different advantages. We describe a representation that supports constant-time implementations of clear-set, add-member, and delete-member. Additionally, it supports an efficient forall iterator, allowing enumeration of all the members of a set in time proportional to the cardinality of the set.We present detailed comparisons of the costs of operations on our representation and on a bit vector representation. Additionally, we give experimental results showing the effectiveness of our representation in a practical application: construction of an interference graph for use during graph-coloring register allocation.While this representation was developed to solve a specific problem arising in register allocation, we have found it useful throughout our work, especially when implementing efficient analysis techniques for large programs. However, the new representation is not a panacea. The operations required for a particular set should be carefully considered before this representation, or any other representation, is chosen.
Direct demonstration that ferrous ion complexes of di- and triphosphate nucleotides catalyze hydroxyl free radical formation from hydrogen peroxide.

Utilizing an electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spin-trapping technique it was demonstrated that the di- and triphosphate nucleotides of adenosine, cytidine, thymidine, and guanosine in the presence of Fe(II) catalyze hydroxyl free radical formation from H2O2. The triphosphate nucleotides in general were about 20% more effective than the diphosphate nucleotides. The amount of ȮH produced from H2O2 as a function of nucleotide level tended to increase in a sigmoidal fashion beginning at a nucleotide/Fe(II) ratio of 2 but then rose rapidly up to a ratio of 5 at which point the increase became more gradual. The monophosphate nucleotides did not cause an increase in the amount of hydroxyl free radical produced from H2O2 over the low level obtained in the buffer system only. The cations, Mg2+ and Ca2+, even at much higher than physiological levels and much higher than the level of added Fe(II), did not cause a substantial diminution of the Fe(II)-nucleotide-catalyzed breakdown of H2O2 to yield ȮH. A study of the time course of the effectiveness of Fe(II)-nucleotide-mediated ȮH formation from H2O2 demonstrated that Fe(II) in the presence of nucleotides remained in an effective catalytic state with a halftime of about 160 s whereas in the absence of the nucleotides the halftime was 7.5 s. All observations indicate that Fe(II) ligates with di- and triphosphate nucleotides and remains in the ferrous state which is then capable of catalyzing ȮH formation from H2O2; but with time, oxidation of the metal ion to the ferric state occurs, which either ligated to the nucleotide or to buffer ions, is ineffective in H2O2 catalysis to yield ȮH. Iron-nucleotide complexes may be of importance in mediating oxygen free radical damage to biological systems. The observations presented here indicate that hydroxyl free radicals will be produced when H2O2 is present with ferrous-nucleotide complexes.
Symmetry energy dependence of long-timescale isospin transport

Isospin transport occurring within dinuclear projectile-like fragments (PLFs) produced in heavy-ion collisions is explored as a probe of the nuclear symmetry energy. Within the framework of the constrained molecular dynamics (CoMD) model, the existence of the long-lived dinuclear PLFs, for up to $800 \mathrm{fm}/c$, is observed. It is demonstrated that changes in the $\ensuremath{\langle}N/Z\ensuremath{\rangle}$ of the two fragments resulting from the breakup of the dinuclear PLF is due to isospin transport. The rate of the transport between the two fragments is shown to be dependent on the slope of the symmetry energy at saturation density. Comparison of the CoMD calculations with experimental data establishes that the evolution of $\ensuremath{\langle}N/Z\ensuremath{\rangle}$ could be used to constrain the density dependence of the symmetry energy.
Wage and Employment Structure in an Economy with Internal Labor Markets

The paper discusses the economics of promotion and, in particular, studies wage and employment structure in an economy with internal labor markets. It is shown—under a wide range of assumptions—that firms will set a nondecreasing wage profile that, for reasons apparently not suggested before, both junior and senior workers may be paid more or less than their marginal product, and that firms will offer a flat wage schedule if labor hours are supplied perfectly inelastically.
Graphene and nano-diamond synthesis in expansions of molten liquid carbon

Despite their widespread use in high-pressure experiments, little is known about the physical and chemical properties of carbon-containing materials as they expand and cool to ambient conditions. As a result, interpretation of experiments can rely on use of unconstrained models with poor accuracy for the ensuing equation of state properties and final chemical products. To this end, we use quantum simulations to study the free expansion and cooling of carbon from metallic liquid states achieved during shock compression. Expansions from three different sets of shock conditions yielded of a variety of chain and ring structures. We then quantify the relative amounts of graphite-like and diamond-like particles formed during cooling and equilibration. We observe that for all cases, graphene sheets are the majority product formed with more extreme initial conditions producing increasingly larger amounts of diamond particles. Our results can address key needs for future meso-scale models of experiments, where knowledge of material properties and chemical end products can have a pronounced effect on interpreting experimental observables.
Reliability for linear differential equations with noisy coefficients

Abstract Suppose Ẋ = ( A + W ) X is a system of stochastic differential equations, where A is a matrix of constants and W is a matrix of white noises. We say the system is reliable if the variance-covariance matrix of the states asymptotically approaches zero. We give conditions in terms of measures of the coefficient matrix and a matrix whose entries are standard deviation parameters of the coefficient noises which will insure that the system is reliable.
Is cosmic drift a cosmic myth

Systematic variations in the mass-to-light ratios of elliptical and spiral galaxies are examined. It is suggested that a major component of the apparent peculiar velocity field on large scales may be these variations over cluster scales. A dispersion in the mass-to-light ratio of elliptical galaxies is attributed to tidal stripping during cluster formation. The dispersion is strongest in cluster cores and is specific to galaxies that have undergone the bulk of their star formation prior to cluster formation. Evidence is presented to support this explanation of the variations.
Studies of radiative losses from multimode optical fibres

We describe measurements in which the radiative losses from a multimode fibre have been resolved into three components. These are the Rayleigh Scatter component from the material, the loss by tunnelling from the modes closest to cut-off into the surrounding material, and the forward scatter loss caused by imperfections in the fibre that are large compared to a wavelength.
Investigation of NO2 adsorption on reduced graphene oxide

Abstract The adsorption of NO 2 on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) is investigated using in situ infrared microspectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. NO 2 /RGO differential absorption spectra show a broadband modulation and the appearance of several vibrational absorption bands, indicating several coexisting adsorbate species. We find that NO 2 molecules react with native epoxide groups to form nitrate species. Consequently, the effect of NO 2 is, partially, to remove epoxide groups and their distortion of the low-energy electronic structure of graphene, while simultaneously hole-doping the substrate. These results are discussed and related to recent reports on the gas-sensing behavior of RGO.
Arrays of widely spaced atomic steps on Si(1 1 1) mesas due to sublimation

Abstract Steps with spacings of microns form on top of mesas fabricated on Si(1 1 1) that is annealed at temperatures where sublimation becomes important. Upon annealing, mesas first develop ridges along their edges, effectively creating craters which then become step-free by a step flow process described in the literature [S. Tanaka, C.C. Umbach, J.M. Blakely, R.M. Tromp, M. Mankos, Appl. Phys. Lett. 69 (9) (1996) 1235; Y. Homma, N. Aizawa, T. Ogino, Jpn. J. Appl. Phys. 35 (2B) (1996) L241]. Due to the miscut of the average surface from (1 1 1), ridge breakdown occurs on one edge of each mesa as sublimation proceeds. The breakdown point then acts as a source of steps which spread out over the mesa surface. The distribution of steps in the resulting step train depends on the sublimation rate, direct step-step interaction and the diffusive exchange of atoms among the steps. Insight into the role of these processes on the self-organization of the wide terrace distributions is provided by computer simulations using BCF (Burton, Cabrera and Frank) theory. This shows that step spacing can be controlled by varying the annealing temperature and the deposition flux. Comparison of the experimental and predicted step distributions suggest that the dynamics of the widely spaced steps are sublimation limited.
Mercury mobilization in estuarine sediment porewaters: a diffusive gel time-series study.

To assess the lability of porewater and sediment solid-phase mercury (Hg), mercapto-substituted siloxane gels were deployed within the sediments of the Penobscot estuary in Maine. Gel deployments occurred in time series and at discrete sediment depths. A sediment distribution coefficient (KD) was estimated by modeling the resultant gel Hg uptake. For deployments >1 day, depth-averaged gel Hg uptake was significantly greater at depth (Zone B 6−20 cm) than in the vicinity of the sediment−water interface (Zone A 0−5 cm), with uptake ultimately reaching 16.7 ± 4.9 ng Hg g-1 gel versus 35.5 ± 3.8 ng Hg g-1 gel for Zone A versus Zone B, respectively. For Zone A, a simple diffusive model adequately describes gel mass flux, suggesting that Hg repartitioning from the solid phase does not generate a net Hg source term within the time frame of gel deployment. For Zone B, model-determined values of KD (KD = 25−75) were considerably smaller than literature values typically based on total sediment Hg concentration. The...
Topographic and zonal organization of the olivocerebellar projection in the reeler mutant mouse.

The organization of the olivocerebellar projection in the homozygous reeler mouse (rl/rl) was studied with the use of microinjections of 3H-leucine in different regions of the inferior olivary complex (IO) or horseradish peroxidase conjugated with wheat germ agglutinin (WGA-HRP) into medial, intermediate, or lateral regions of the reeler cerebellum. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the pattern of termination of olivocerebellar climbing fibers (CFs) in the cerebellum via an anterograde tracing technique, and to determine the topographic organization of the olivocerebellar projection via both anterograde and retrograde methods. The inferior olive injections were made via the ventral (i.e., retropharygeal) approach to the IO to minimize diffusion into other brainstem precerebellar nuclei and thus to ensure accurate well-restricted, injection sites. Labeled CF terminals were seen in both the superficial Purkinje cell (PC) layer (normally positioned PCs) and around PCs in the granular layer and central masses (ectopic PCs). The pattern of labeling is suggestive of orthogonal organization, in that vertical columns of cells are labeled. This is especially apparent in the medial PC group, where at least three bands are identified. Within an orthogonal band, CF terminals are seen around both superficial and deep Purkinje cells. Our data indicate that olivocerebellar topography is generally similar in reeler and normal mice despite severe abnormalities in target cell position in the reeler. The medial cerebellar region receives input from the caudal two-fifths of the medial accessory olive (MAO). The intermediate PC cluster receives input from more rostral portions of all three olivary divisions (MAO, principal olive [PO] and dorsal accessory olive [DAO] ), while rostral portions of MAO and PO project to the lateral cerebellum. These results indicate that the zonal organization of the olivocerebellar projection in the adult reeler exhibits a pattern generally similar to that seen in normal mice. This suggests that an afferent system can develop a normal organization despite having ectopic targets.
Augustine on Manichaeism and Charisma

Augustine was suspicious of charismatics’ claims to superior righteousness, which supposedly authorized them to relay truths about creation and redemption. What follows finds the origins of that suspicion in his disenchantment with celebrities on whom Manichees relied, specialists whose impeccable behavior and intellectual virtuosity were taken as signs that they possessed insight into the meaning of Christianity’s sacred texts. Augustine’s struggles for self-identity and with his faith’s intelligibility during the late 370s, 380s, and early 390s led him to prefer that his intermediaries between God and humanity be dead (martyred), rather than alive and charismatic.
The impact of comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 on Jupiter

We have performed computational shock-physics simulations of the hypervelocity (60 km/s) impact of 1–3 km, water-ice spheres entering a hydrogen-helium Jovian atmosphere. These conditions simulate the best current estimates for the collision of fragments of periodic comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 with Jupiter in July, 1994. We used the Eulerian shock-physics code CTH, and its parallel version PCTH to perform 2-D analyses of penetration and breakup, and 3-D analyses of the growth of the resulting fireball during the first 100 seconds after fragment entry. We can use our simulations to make specific predictions of the time interval between fragment entry and fireball arrival into line-of-sight from the earth. For a fragment larger than about 1 km, we believe that the time of fireball arrival above Jupiter's limb will be directly observable from earth. Measurements of this time by observers, in conjunction with our simulations, may allow mass of cometary fragments to be determined.
Replication of mycoplasmavirus MVL51. V. In vivo synthesis of virus-specific proteins.

Abstract MVL51 is a nonlytic bullet-shaped mycoplasmavirus containing circular single-stranded DNA of 2 × 10 6 daltons. In vivo synthesis of virus-specific proteins has been studied in Acholeplasma laidlawii wild-type and REP − cells. REP − cells propagate double-stranded DNA but not single-stranded DNA mycoplasma viruses. Cells were uv irradiated to suppress synthesis of cell proteins, infected, and incubated in medium containing radioisotopically labeled leucine. Proteins were extracted and analyzed by gel electrophoresis. Six virus-specific proteins have been identified, with molecular weights of 70,000, 50,000, 30,000, 19,000, 14,000, and 10,000. The four larger proteins correspond to the four viral structural proteins. The 14,000 dalton protein may have a role in the replication of double stranded DNA viral replicative intermediates. The amount of 10,000 dalton protein is maximal during progeny viral single-stranded DNA synthesis.
Endocardial Potential Mapping from a Noncontact Nonexpandable Catheter: A Feasibility Study

In previous studies, we established methodology for reconstructing endocardial potentials, electrograms and isochrones from a non-contact intracavitary probe during a single beat. The probe was too large to be introduced percutaneously. Here we examine the possibility of similar mapping with a small multielectrode catheter that could be introduced percutaneously and does not expand inside the cavity. Cavity geometry and endocardial potentials were recorded in an isolated canine left ventricle. Simulated catheter probes were introduced into the cavity. Probe potentials were computed from the measured endocardial potentials and perturbed to include measurement noise, geometrical errors, and limited electrode density. Endocardial potentials were then reconstructed from the perturbed probe potentials and compared to the actual measured potentials. Of all probes simulated, a 3.0 mm (9F) catheter that assumes a curved geometry (e.g., a J shape) inside the cavity performed best (better than a larger 7.6 mm cylinder simulating an inflatable probe). Without bending, a straight cylindrical probe of the same size (9F, 3.0 mm) did not perform well. Sixty probe electrodes were needed for accurate reconstruction. The J-probe reconstruction was very robust in the presence of noise (10%) and of geometry errors (3 mm shift, 10° rotation). The results demonstrate the feasibility of accurate single-beat endocardial mapping using a 9F percutaneous multielectrode catheter that assumes a J shape in the cavity without the need for expansion (e.g., into a balloon or a “basket”). The robustness of the procedure to noise and geometrical errors suggests its applicability in the clinical EP laboratory and the possibility of determining probe position in vivo using current imaging modalities. © 1998 Biomedical Engineering Society. PAC98: 8759Wc
Comparison of ethanol septal reduction therapy with surgical myectomy for the treatment of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy

Abstract OBJECTIVES This study was designed to compare the hemodynamic efficacy of nonsurgical septal reduction therapy (NSRT) by intracoronary ethanol with standard therapy (surgical myectomy) for the treatment of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). BACKGROUND Nonsurgical septal reduction therapy has gained interest as a new treatment modality for patients with drug-refractory symptoms of HOCM; however, its benefits in comparison to surgery are unknown. METHODS Forty-one consecutive NSRT patients at Baylor College of Medicine with one-year follow-up were compared with age- and gradient-matched septal myectomy patients at the Mayo Clinic. All patients had left ventricular outflow obstruction with a resting gradient ≥40 mm Hg and none had concomitant procedures. RESULTS There were no baseline differences in New York Heart Association class, severity of mitral regurgitation, use of cardiac medications or exercise capacity. One death occurred during NSRT because of dissection of the left anterior descending artery. At one year, all improvements in both groups were similar. After surgical myectomy, more patients were on medications (p CONCLUSIONS Nonsurgical septal reduction therapy resulted in a significantly higher incidence of complete heart block, but the risk was reduced with contrast echocardiography and slow ethanol injection. Surgical myectomy resulted in a significantly higher incidence of mild aortic regurgitation. Nonsurgical septal reduction therapy, guided by contrast echocardiography, is an effective procedure for treating patients with HOCM. The hemodynamic and functional improvements at one year are similar to those of surgical myectomy.
Transanal endoscopic video-assisted (TEVA) excision

Transanal endoscopic video-assisted (TEVA) excision represents an alternative approach for the surgical treatment of middle and upper rectal lesions not amenable to colonoscopic removal. Utilizing principles of single-incision laparoscopic surgery, this novel minimally invasive approach optimizes access for safe and complete removal of these lesions without the need for a formal rectal resection. We describe our technique and early outcomes with TEVA excision. Between March 2010 and September 2011, TEVA excision was performed for patients presenting for management of rectal lesions not amenable to colonoscopic or standard transanal removal. Patients were selected if they presented with benign disease or superficial adenocarcinoma, and the proximal extent of the lesion extended beyond 8 cm from the anal verge. Demographic, intraoperative, and postoperative data were assessed. A SILS™ port was placed in the anal canal for access in all cases. Standard laparoscopic instruments were utilized for visualization, full-thickness transanal excision, and primary closure. Twenty patients (50 % male) with a mean age of 64.6 ± 10.9 years, mean body mass index of 28.2 ± 4.9 kg/m2, and median American Society of Anesthesiologist score of 2 underwent TEVA excision. Fourteen patients (70 %) presented with benign disease and six patients (30 %) presented with malignant disease. The mean size of the lesions was 3.0 ± 1.4 cm, and the mean distance from the anal verge was 10.6 ± 2.4 cm. All excisions were successfully completed with a mean operative time of 79.8 ± 25.1 (range, 45–135) min. The mean length of hospital stay was 1.1 ± 0.7 (range, 0-3) days. TEVA excision is a safe and feasible approach for local excision of rectal lesions not otherwise amenable to standard techniques. Continued investigation and development will be important to establish its role in minimally invasive colorectal surgery.
An intracellular threonine of amyloid-β precursor protein mediates synaptic plasticity deficits and memory loss.

Mutations in Amyloid-s Precursor Protein (APP) and BRI2/ITM2b genes cause Familial Alzheimer and Danish Dementias (FAD/FDD), respectively. APP processing by BACE1, which is inhibited by BRI2, yields sAPPs and s-CTF. s-CTF is cleaved by gamma-secretase to produce As. A knock-in mouse model of FDD, called FDDKI, shows deficits in memory and synaptic plasticity, which can be attributed to sAPPs/s-CTF but not As. We have investigated further the pathogenic function of s-CTF focusing on Thr(668) of s-CTF because phosphorylation of Thr(668) is increased in AD cases. We created a knock-in mouse bearing a Thr(668)Ala mutation (APP(TA) mice) that prevents phosphorylation at this site. This mutation prevents the development of memory and synaptic plasticity deficits in FDDKI mice. These data are consistent with a role for the carboxyl-terminal APP domain in the pathogenesis of dementia and suggest that averting the noxious role of Thr(668) is a viable therapeutic strategy for human dementias.
Of Milk and Motherhood: The Kacaṅgalā Avadāna Read in a Brahmanical Light

When the story of Kacaṅgalā is borrowed from the Mūlasarvāstivādavinaya to the Avadānaśataka, a small but interesting Brahmanical literary trope is incorporated. That trope, which appears multiple times in parallel situations in Daṇḍin’s Daśakumāracarita, seems designed to bolster the claim that Kacaṅgalā, despite her present humble life, had been the mother of the being who would become Śākyamuni Buddha in 500 previous lives. This story is unknown in the southern Pāli sources, although a nun named Kajaṅgalā is mentioned in several places therein.
DYNAMICS OF SEMICONDUCTOR-TO-DYE ELECTRON TRANSFER FOR ANTHRACENE DYES BOUND TO DIFFERENT SIZED TIO2 PARTICLES

The photosensitization of different sized TiO2 nanoparticles by anthracenecarboxylic acid dye molecules has been studied using transient absorption spectroscopy. These experiments primarily yield information about the semiconductor-to-dye electron transfer reaction. Our measurements show that for TiO2 particles in the 4 to 40 nm size range, the rate of this reaction does not depend on the particles' size. The results were analyzed using a model where the electrons are assumed to be evenly distributed over the surface of the particle. To reproduce our experimental results with this analysis, the scaling parameter that describes the distance dependence of the semiconductor-to-dye electron transfer reaction must be > 180 nm. We do not consider this to be physically reasonable. An alternative explanation is that the injected electrons are in localized trap sites that are spatially close to the dye radical cation, i.e., they are not randomly distributed over the particle surface. The observation of single expo...
Calculation of quasi-hydrostatic restoration coefficients for complex configurations

This paper describes general capability and typical uses of a new computer system developed for calculation of the non-linear quasi-hydrostatic reactions of complex hulls, columns, braces, etc. typically used in the design of semisubmersibles, pipe-lay stingers and other marine configurations.
Bone formation in skin and muscle: A localized tissue malformation or heterotopia

Summary Heterotopic formation of mature bone within the deeper layers of dermis, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle appears to be a rare malformation of segmental distribution occurring in young children. Simple excision is employed in treatment with apparent curative results. To the three cases found in the literature a fourth has been added.