cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Flame structure measurements of NO in premixed hydrogen–nitrous oxide flames

Abstract Experimental NO flame profiles were measured for N 2 -diluted, H 2 – N 2 O premixed flames stabilized on a flat flame apparatus at equivalence ratios ranging from 0.95 to 1.55. NO measurements were obtained using saturated laser-induced fluorescence and calibrated by microprobe post-flame sampling utilizing Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. These experimental data were compared with a burner-stabilized flame model using three different published chemical mechanisms incorporating H 2 / O 2 / N x O y chemistry. For the stoichiometric flame condition, peak NO model predictions using the three chemical mechanisms differed by 38%, whereas these model predictions varied by over 47% for the fuel-rich conditions examined. NO predictions in the post-flame region using the Konnov chemical mechanism were generally within the estimated experimental uncertainty, whereas the model predictions using the other two mechanisms fell below the lower uncertainty bounds. The normalized spatial NO profile predictions for all three chemical mechanisms showed reasonable agreement with the normalized experimental NO profiles for near-stoichiometric H 2 – N 2 O flames; however, there was appreciable disparity between the experimental and model predictions for fuel-rich, H 2 – N 2 O flames. Sensitivity and rate-of-production analyses show that NH x / NO chemical interactions, as well as NH x / N x H y recombination reactions under fuel-rich conditions, are important to accurately modeling NO profiles in hydrogen-nitrous oxide flames. The experimental data provide constraints for the rate constants of important NH x / N x H y chemical interactions, and some modifications were considered for improving comparisons between model predictions and experiments.
Abstract B40: The quest for biomarkers of progressive DCIS using archived tissue.

Background: Presently, an indolent ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) cannot be distinguished from a progressive tumor, making the appropriate treatment of DCIS patients a major clinical dilemma. Here, we tested if measuring protein levels in archived tissue could facilitate the development of biomarkers (BMs) accurately discriminating progressive from non-invasive DCIS. We theorized that BMs of progressive lesion are measurable parameters that distinguish pure DCIS from DCIS with concurrent invasive breast cancer (IBC). To test the hypothesis, we studied the insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGF-IR), Ras oncogene-like protein 1 (Rap1), and oncoprotein Vav2 implicated in the progression of IBC. Methods: We developed and applied a new quantitative imaging-based uniplex (IBU) method to measure in-tissue protein expression. The quantification was performed on a continuous scale, and multiple repeated measurements of relative (rather than absolute) intensity of immunohistochemical staining took into account fluctuations of background. Protein profiling was completed in 211 breast samples: 42 histologically normal, 71 cancer in situ (with/without associated invasion), and 98 IBC. Groups were compared using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by pair-wise t-tests with Tukey9s correction for multiple testing. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to evaluate how well each BM can predict tumor type. Results: A pair-wise comparison among tissue groups revealed statistically significantly higher levels of IGF-IR and Rap1 in the in situ and IBC groups than in the normal group (P Conclusions: The application of our IBU method identified previously undetected changes in IGF-IR, Rap1, and Vav2 that co-evolve with IBC progression. Vav2 may be a valuable BM for the diagnosis of progressive DCIS. Improvement in earlier detection of DCIS with aggressive phenotype would go a long way in advancing efforts towards prevention of IBC. Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):B40. Citation Format: Marina A. Guvakova, YunQing Jiang, Indira Prabakaran, Fei Wan, Nandita Mitra, Douglas L. Fraker, Paul J. Zhang. The quest for biomarkers of progressive DCIS using archived tissue. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2013 Oct 19-23; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2013;12(11 Suppl):Abstract nr B40.
Three Strain-gage Load Measurement

A discussion of the article “Load Measurement in a Cylindrical Column or Beam Using Three Strain Gages” by M.E. Tuttle which appeared in the February 1982 E/T Volume 6, Number 7, 16–17.
Syntheses of very soluble alkylated bicyclic guanidinate ligands and structural characterization of a dipalladium paddlewheel

Abstract Fool-proof syntheses of two highly soluble tetraalkylated bicyclic guanidinates which are characterized by the NC(N)N core are reported along with the structures of the corresponding hydrochlorides. The compound with alkyl = methyl was used to prepare a paddlewheel species with a Pd24+ core devoid of a strong metal–metal bond but potentially useful as precursor to a rare single bonded Pd26+ species. The Pd1⋯Pd2 separation is only 2.5488(12) A and the local coordination for each of the d8 Pd(II) atoms is square planar.
Cointegration analysis of brand and category sales: Stationarity and long‐run equilibrium in market shares

The present study uses modern time series methodology to understand long-run equilibrium in markets and provides additional evidence of the frequent existence of stationary market shares for frequently purchased consumer products. Dekimpe and Hanssens, Marketing Science 1995; 14(2):G109-121 using a database of over 400 prior studies, found that 78 per cent of the market share series they studied were stationary, but that 68 per cent of the sales series were evolving. Our findings reconcile these results. A major contribution of this paper is its demonstration that the prior empirical evidence that a majority of sales series is in evolution is consistent with stationary market shares, if brand sales and category sales are cointegrated. To the extent that competitive activities have an effect on market share, an implication of our findings is that these activities may, in general, only have a temporary effect on market share, Finally, we distinguish, from a strategic perspective, between sales and share response at the primary-demand level (category sales), selective-demand level (brand sales) and relative-position level (market share) and identify strategic scenarios depending upon their stable/evolving nature.
Novel MEA platform with PDMS microtunnels enables the detection of action potential propagation from isolated axons in culture

This study investigated a novel multi-electrode-array (MEA) design capable of long-term and highly selective recordings of axonal signals using PDMS microtunnels. We successfully grew neurons in culture so that only axons extended through narrow (10 µm wide by 3 µm high) and long (750 µm) microtunnels under which multiple electrodes were integrated. This permitted the recording of relatively large (up to 200 µV) electrical signals, including the propagation speed and direction of these travelling action potentials. To further demonstrate the operation of the device as a diagnostic tool for drug screening assays, the drug mepivacaine was applied in washout experiments. Here, we identified significant changes in mean spiking rate and conduction velocity.
THE ORO GRANDE, NEW MEXICO, CHONDRITE AND ITS LITHIC INCLUSION

The Oro Grande, New Mexico, U.S.A., chondrite was found in 1971. Electron microprobe analyses and microscopic examination show the following mineralogy: olivine (Fa 19.3 mole %), orthopyroxene (Fs 16.2 mole %), diopside, feldspar (An 13.6 mole %), chlorapatite, whitlockite, kamacite, taenite, troilite, chromite, and an iron-bearing terrestrial weathering product. A bulk chemical analysis of the meteorite shows the following results (weight %): Fe 0.84, Ni 1.46, Co 0.07, FeS 3.62, SiO2 34.18, TiO2 0.14, Al2O3 1.83, Cr2O3 0.55, Fe2O3 21.25, FeO 9.13, MnO 0.31, MgO 21.52, CaO 1.72, Na2O 0.70, K2O 0.08, P2O5 0.25, H2O(+) 2.14, H2O(-) 0.40, C 0.22, sum 100.41. On the basis of composition and texture the Oro Grande meteorite is classified as an H5 chondrite.
SU‐E‐T‐331: Geometric Variations between Pre Planned and or Planned Implant Procedures for Patients Undergoing I‐125 Prostate Brachytherapy Seed Implantation

Purpose: The limitations of pre‐planned prostate brachytherapy seed implantation can be overcome by intraoperative re‐planning in the OR. Main purpose of this report is to compare geometric parameters between pre‐planed and OR‐panned procedures regarding changes in prostate volume/shape, number of seeds/needles and total activity, to address prostate volume/shape changes observed in the OR when the patient is under anesthesia and to present post‐implant dosimetric results.Methods and materials: In 33 clinical 125I cases, ultra‐sound (US) volume studies and plans were performed for both preplanning and in the OR just before seed implantation. Changes in volume/shape and number of seeds/needles used were compared between the two data‐sets and patient received brachytherapytreatment using the OR plan. For each patient, D90 and V100 were obtained from day one post‐implant CT dosimetry.Results: The mean US volume change observed between pre‐plans and OR‐plans was (5.3 ± 4.4)cc, with a maximum of 20cc. Change in the number of seeds between the plans were (8.9 ± 5.7) on an average and showed excellent correlation with prostate volume change. The number of needles remains relatively unchanged. The average total‐activity changed was (2.7 ± 1.6)mCi, with a maximum of 7mCi. Prostate shape changes (in terms of no. of seeds changed) in the OR was seen mainly in the anterior aspect of prostate. The average D90 and V100 were (90.3 ± 4.6)Gy and (148.7 ± 16.6)% of the prescription dose, respectively. Summary and Discussion: Significant variations of prostate volume changes between pre‐planned and the OR‐planned implants were observed in many cases. Largest change in the no. of seeds was due to change in shape of the prostate in its anterior aspect clearly shows the effect of pelvic muscle relaxation and patient re‐positioning in the OR. This supports the argument in favor of performing intraoperative re‐planning and implant‐dosimetry.
O feminismo, o capitalismo e a astúcia da história

Do feminism and neoliberalism share a secret affinity? In this article the author examine the co-option of gender politics by the “new spirit” of post-Fordist capitalism, and subordination of its radical critique to a neoliberal agenda, that instrumentalized the flags of second-wave feminism. Might a neoliberalism shift offer prospects for socialist-feminist renewal?
Dispersal and competition models for plants

New models for seed dispersal and competition between plant species are formulated and analyzed. The models are integrodifference equations, discrete in time and continuous in space, and have applications to annual and perennial species. The spread or invasion of a single plant species into a geographic region is investigated by studying the travelling wave solutions of these equations. Travelling wave solutions are shown to exist in the single-species models and are compared numerically. The asymptotic wave speed is calculated for various parameter values. The single-species integrodifference equations are extended to a model for two competing annual plants. Competition in the two-species model is based on a difference equation model developed by Pakes and Maller [26]. The two-species model with competition and dispersal yields a system of integrodifference equations. The effects of competition on the travelling wave solutions of invading plant species is investigated numerically.
Near-IR imaging of demineralization under sealants.

Previous studies have shown that near-IR reflectance and transillumination imaging can be used to acquire high contrast images of early caries lesions and composite restorative materials. The aim of the study was to determine the optimum near-IR wavelengths for imaging demineralized areas under dental sealants. Fifteen natural human premolars and molars with occlusal lesions were used in this in vitro study. Images before and after application of sealants were acquired using near-IR reflectance and near-IR transillumination at wavelengths of 1300 nm, 1460 nm, and 1500 - 1700 nm. Images were also acquired using polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography for comparison. The highest contrast for near- IR reflectance was at 1460 nm and 1500 - 1700 nm. These near-IR wavelengths are coincident with higher water absorption. The clear Delton sealant investigated was not visible in either co-polarization or crosspolarization OCT images. The wavelength region between 1500-1700-nm yielded the highest contrast of lesions under sealants for near-IR reflectance measurements.
Surgical treatment of congenital mitral stenosis: medium-term results

OBJECTIVE: For a cohort of patients with congenital mitral stenosis (CMS), to determine: patient outcomes, predictors of valve repairability and predictors of durability of valve repair. METHODS: From 1989 and 2002, 23 patients underwent surgical treatment of CMS, excluding those with common atrioventricular canal, and univentricular forms. The median age at operation was 15.5 months (range 2-204), and the median body weight was 11 Kg (range 4.5-51.6). Seventeen patients (73.9%) had associated anomalies, including Shone's complex in nine (39.1%) and pulmonary hypertension in 14 (60.9%). Mitral stenosis was severe in 14 patients (60.9%) and moderate in the remaining (median trans-mitral gradient of 16 mmHg, range 8.5-32). Mitral valve repair was performed in 18 patients (78.3%), and valve replacement in five (21.7%). Repair techniques included papillary muscle splitting (n=10), excision of supravalvular ring (n=9) and commissurotomy (n=8). Twelve patients (52.2%) required associated procedures. RESULTS: There were no early and late deaths at a mean follow-up of 58.5 ± 46.7 months (range 1-156). Mean hospital stay was 12.7 ± 8.2 days. There were no significant factors associated with unsuccessful valve repair. Actuarial freedom from reoperation at five years was 67.1% (CI 95%: 56.8% to 77.4%). The mitral valve repair group required reoperation in eight patients (44.4%) (two early and six late), as opposed to one (20%) in the replacement group. The presence of preoperative pulmonary hypertension was significantly related (p<0.005) to higher reoperation rates. All but two the followed patients are presently in functional class I and the echocardiography has shown less than 2+ mitral stenosis and/or regurgitation. CONCLUSION: Reoperations were the most important cause of morbidity at the medium-term follow-up of CMS. Preoperative pulmonary hypertension may predict the need for reoperation after mitral valve repair, which is the procedure of choice in CMS.
Chemistry and diversity of pyridoxal-5'-phosphate dependent enzymes.

Abstract Pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP) is a versatile cofactor that enzymes use to catalyze a wide variety of reactions of amino acids, including transamination, decarboxylation, racemization, β- and γ-eliminations and substitutions, retro-aldol and Claisen reactions. These reactions depend on the ability of PLP to stabilize, to a varying degree, α-carbanionic intermediates. Furthermore, oxidative decarboxylations and rearrangements suggest that PLP can stabilize radical intermediates as well. The reaction mechanisms of two PLP-dependent enzymes are discussed, kynureninase and tyrosine phenol-lyase (TPL). Kynureninase catalyzes a retro-Claisen reaction of kynurenine to give anthranilate and alanine. The key step, hydration of the γ-carbonyl, is assisted by acid–base catalysis with the phosphate of the PLP, mediated by a conserved tyrosine, and an oxyanion hole. TPL catalyzes the reversible elimination of phenol, a poor leaving group, from l -tyrosine. In TPL, the C β –C γ bond cleavage is accelerated by ground state strain from the bending of the substrate ring out of the plane with the C β –C γ bond. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Cofactor-dependent proteins: evolution, chemical diversity and bio-applications.
Schwinger model on the random block lattice

Abstract The fermion propagator and the vacuum polarization tensor of the Schwinger model are studied on the random block lattice, in the free field limit and weak coupling perturbation theory, respectively. The ensemble averaged fermion propagator and the vacuum polarization tensor agree with their respective values in the continuum theory for distances greater than three average lattice spacings. In momentum space, the ensemble averaged fermion propagator also agrees with the continuum propagator. These results support the possibility of having a chiral fermion interacting with the dynamical gauge field, on the random block lattice, with the correct continuum limit.
Doctor Patient Relationships and the Older Patient

The authority of physicians in patient encounters is posited by the sicrole and the professional-client models in sociology. Yet, public challenges to physician authority are currently occurring, as shown by self care movements, and by some empirical data. Whether the elderly share in such challenges is, however, an unresolved question. Will longer experience with health services produce skepticism about medicine's claims, or conversely will the aged's probable more authoritarina upbringing and concern about failing health produce acceptance of physician authority? Data from an interview survey of 640 randomly sampled persons in a midwestern state, reveal that the 153 respondents aged 60 and over are more likely to accept physician authority, both in terms of attitudes and behaviors, than are the younger groups. Moreover, the findings show that the level of older persons' challenging attitudes is affected by their health knowledge and general views on authority, while their challenging behaviors are influenced by belief in right to medical information and an experience factor. Implications of the findings for appropriate modes of doctor-patient relationships for the elderly are discussed.
The inhibitory effects of β-amyloid on glutamate and glucose uptakes by cultured astrocytes

β-Amyloid is the primary protein component of neuritic plaques, which are degenerative foci in brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The effects of this naturally occurring β-amyloid on the cells of the central nervous system have not been completely understood. β-Amyloid increases the vulnerability of cultured neurons to glutamate-induced excitotoxic damage. Because astrocytes play a key role in uptake of extracellular glutamate and glutamate uptake is ATP-dependent, we studied the effect of β25–35 on glutamate and glucose uptake in cultured hippocampal astrocytes following 7 days of exposure to β25–35. Astrocytic glutamate uptake was studied at 1, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 60 min following the addition of [3H]glutamate (5 nM) to the culture media, and astrocytic glucose uptake was assessed at 60 min after the addition of [14C]glucose (600 and 640 nM) to the media. Glutamate uptake by control astrocytes was time-dependent. Astrocytes exposed to β25–35, however, showed significantly lower glutamate uptake at all sampling times. Similarly, [14C]glucose uptake by astrocytes was inhibited by β25–35. When glucose uptake was blocked by phloretin (10 mM), astrocytic [3H]glutamate uptake was also blocked, suggesting that the inhibitory effect of β-amyloid on glutamate uptake is caused by diminished glucose uptake. Thus, our present study suggests a possible link between two proposed mechanisms of pathogenesis of the Alzheimer's disease: glutamate neurotoxicity and global defect in cerebral energy metabolism. ©1997 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Evaluating the Economic Impact of Harmonized Product Standards in the European Union

After its 2004 enlargement to 25 member nations, the European Union, with a population of 452 million and a GDP surpassing $10 trillion, represents one of the most powerful economic engines in the world, and is the primary trading and investment partner with the US. However, in spite of the mostly integrated single market in Europe, internal trade between member nations can be hindered by competing national level technical standards. To address such inefficiencies, the European Commission issues standardization directives under the New Approach doctrine, adopted in 1985 to harmonize product standards in Europe. This paper attempts to evaluate the effectiveness of the New Approach by analyzing European production and trade data, internal and external, of certain products governed by New Approach norms, in order to determine if economic activity in those products was significantly impacted by the streamlined standards, while controlling for other socioeconomic factors.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Identifying important concepts from medical documents

Automated medical concept recognition is important for medical informatics such as medical document retrieval and text mining research. In this paper, we present a software tool called keyphrase identification program (KIP) for identifying topical concepts from medical documents. KIP combines two functions: noun phrase extraction and keyphrase identification. The former automatically extracts noun phrases from medical literature as keyphrase candidates. The latter assigns weights to extracted noun phrases for a medical document based on how important they are to that document and how domain specific they are in the medical domain. The experimental results show that our noun phrase extractor is effective in identifying noun phrases from medical documents, so is the keyphrase extractor in identifying important medical conceptual terms. They both performed better than the systems they were compared to.
Potentiation of in vitro cytotoxic effects of misonidazole on human colon tumor cells by the differentiation-inducing agent N-methylformamide

Abstract Human colon tumor cells (clone A) were studied in vitro with regard to modification of dose-dependent cytotoxicity to misonidazole (MISO) treatment by pre-exposure growth in medium containing the differentiation-inducing agent N-methylformamid(NMF). Cells were grown as exponential cultures and were exposed for 2 passages to 170 mM NMF before exposure to graded doses of MISO (0–100 mM, 3 hours at 37°C, oxic or hypoxic). Both oxic and hypoxic cells could be sensitized to MISO cell killing. Using the 10% level of survival for comparison, the calculated MISO doses (mM) were: 105, 37, 50, and 10 for oxic control cells, hypoxic control cells, oxic-NMF treated cells, and hypoxic-NMF treated cells, respectively. Therefore, for NMF treated oxic cells, cell killing was increased by a factor of about 2.1, while for NMF treated hypoxic cells, cell killing increased by a factor of about 3.7. These data indicate that NMF treatment, while potentiating effects on both oxic and hypoxic cells, appears to have selectivity towards hypoxic cells. NMF may therefore have use in combined modality radiation therapy of solid tumors with electron-affinic radiosensitizers.
Direct singular perturbation analysis of high-gain and cheap control problems

A new and direct approach to the analysis and design of high-gain feedback and cheap control problems is developed. Transformation of such singular problems to singular perturbation models of conventional type early at the onset of analysis or design allows a direct application of the readily available singular perturbation literature. The approach permits a simple characterization of (a) multivariable root loci under a high-gain feedback and (b) asymptotic behavior of optimal closed loop poles, state and control trajectories, performance index and optimal transfer function as the control cost coefficient in the performance index goes to zero.
Thermal analyses of Ohio bituminous coals

Abstract A suite of twenty-one bituminous coal samples from Ohio were analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and non-isothermal thermogravimetry (TG) techniques. Three regions of endothermic activity may be distinguished in the DSC scans in an inert atmosphere. The first peak (25–150°C) corresponds to loss of moisture from the coal, a second, very broad endotherm peaking in the range 400–500°C corresponds to devolatilization of the organic matter and a partially resolved endotherm at temperatures above 550°C probably corresponds to cracking and coking processes subsequent to the pyrolysis step. Evidence obtained from experiments with sealed pans suggest an autocatalytic effect exerted by the pyrolysis products. The use of the DSC technique to quantify the volatile matter content of coal seems less reliable than the proximate analyses obtained from non-isothermal TG in inert and O 2 atmospheres. Good agreement with ASTM values is observed by the latter method for a range of volatile matter and ash content.
Nutrition and Behavior of Degus (Octodon degus)

Octodon degus are herbivorous rodents that are adapted anatomically and behaviorally to utilize a fibrous diet with moderate-to-low levels of nonstructural carbohydrate. Captive degus should consume foods containing nutrients comparable to those consumed by free-ranging animals. The species is highly social, demonstrating a broad array of communication methods that make them appealing as a companion animal species. Controlled research studies with degus have produced a wealth of information that facilitates the care of this species in captivity.
A general statistical model for characterizing the growth patterns and projecting the level of performance of family planning clinics

Abstract A statistical model for characterizing the growth patterns and projecting the level of performance has been developed for family planning clinics. The model developed is y = β (1 − e−αt where y is the number of continuing contraceptive patients at time t, and α and β are parameters to be estimated. Results of a typical application of the model are presented and discussed.
Long-term outcomes in patients with stage IV neuroblastoma

Abstract Aim of Study Long-term outcome studies in survivors with stage IV neuroblastoma (NB) are sparse. This review evaluates late complications and long-term outcomes in stage IV NB survivors. Methods A retrospective review of stage IV NB survivors was performed to analyze outcomes, including long-term morbidity, recurrence, and survival. Main Results Of 153 patients with stage IV NB, 52 (34%) survived (male-female, 26:26). Age at diagnosis was 29.1 ± 31.7 months in survivors. Eighteen were 1 year or younger and 34 were older than 1 year compared with 10 nonsurvivors 1 year or younger and 91 older than 1 year ( P = .0003, Fisher's Exact test). Primary tumor sites were adrenal (35), retroperitoneal (11), mediastinal (3), pelvic (2), and no primary with tumor metastases identified (1). Ten survivors had favorable and 16 had unfavorable histology compared with 1 favorable and 18 unfavorable in nonsurvivors ( P = .01). Four survivors had MYCN amplification (≥10 copies) and 2 deletions of 1p and 11q. Sites of metastasis in survivors and nonsurvivors were similar. Treatment in survivors included surgery in 51 (75% [39/51] complete tumor resection [CTR]); chemotherapy, 50; radiation, 17; stem cell transplantation, 20; and bone marrow transplant, 1. In nonsurvivors, 13 (25%) of 53 ( P ≪ .0001) had CTR, 18 stem cell transplantation, and 12 bone marrow transplant. Six patients had tumor recurrence but survived (mean, 9.3 ± 8.3 years; range, 6 months–24 years). Recurrence was local (1), distant (2), and both (3) and was treated by resection, chemotherapy, and radiation. The mean age of survivors was 12.4 ± 8.3 years (range, 2-34 years). In all stage IV cases, event-free survival was 30% and overall survival was 34%. Long-term complications occurred in 23 (44%) survivors, including endocrine disturbances (7), orthopedic (5), cataracts (2), adhesive bowel obstruction (2), hypertension (1), bronchiolitis (1), blindness (1), peripheral neuropathy (1), nonfunctioning kidney (1), cholelithiasis (1), and thyroid nodule (1). Conclusion Only 34% of patients with stage IV NB survived despite aggressive multimodal therapy. Age of younger than 1 year, favorable pathology, CTR, and no recurrence were the only statistically significant factors that favored survival. Forty-four percent of survivors experienced late morbidity, and tumor recurred in 6 (11.5%) of 52. Patients should be monitored for tumor recurrence and long-term sequelae. New methods of treatment are required to achieve better outcomes.
On the measurement of strain-rate sensitivity for deformation mechanism in conventional and ultra-fine grain alloys

Abstract Strain-rate sensitivity (SRS) of flow stress is an important parameter for deformation mechanism of materials. Definition of SRS is based on incremental changes in strain rate during tests performed at a fixed temperature and fixed microstructure, to determine corresponding changes in flow stress. In the creep literature, a steady state is assumed to be characterized by “constant” structure, but that “steady structure” varies with strain rate and temperature. Strain hardening causes structure to develop during primary creep, and also during low temperature deformation. Incremental tests for SRS minimize effects of changes in structure, temperature and strain hardening during testing, and are used to determine relation between dislocation velocity and stress at constant structure. High strain rate tests used for simulating ballistic applications incorporates multiple deformation mechanisms in a single test. The purpose of those tests has been overextended in recent times to conclude on deformation mechanism in various metals including ultra-fine grain metals. A reexamination of such work and fundamentals of deformation process show that higher SRS values than those for incremental tests are expected at high strain rate due to concurrent strain hardening.
Economic Comparison of Insecticide Treatment Programs for Managing Tomato Pinworm (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) on Fall Tomatoes

The efficacy and economics of various insecticide treatment programs for preventing fruit damage caused by tomato pinworm. Keiferia lycopersicella (Walsingham). on fall plantings of staked tomatoes, Lycopersicon esculentum Mill., were compared during 1982-1984. Methomyl (1.0 kg [AI]/ha) was used in all treatment programs. Weekly or biweekly applications of insecticide begun when larval density in foliage was ≥10 larvae per 3 m of row resulted in less fruit damage than in untreated plots, but the damage increased throughout most of the growing season. Of the treatment programs examined, maximum net revenue (crop value minus treatment program costs) was observed when weekly applications were started at 3-4 larvae per 3 m of row (approximately 0.5 larvae per plant). Insecticide applications begun at this threshold produced less fruit damage than in untreated plots, and damage was stable throughout the growing season. Sampling larvae on foliage provided a direct method for accurately timing the start of weekly insecticide applications.
The amino acid composition of desoxyribonuclease I

Abstract 1. 1. The amino acid composition of DNase I has been determined. 2. 2. On the basis of the data obtained it was calculated that one DNase I molecule contained 540 amino acid residues. 3. 3. The minimum molecular weight calculated from the amino acid composition was 61,566.
Improving structure-based function prediction using molecular dynamics

Summary The number of molecules with solved three-dimensional structure but unknown function is increasing rapidly. Particularly problematic are novel folds with little detectable similarity to molecules of known function. Experimental assays can determine the functions of such molecules, but are time-consuming and expensive. Computational approaches can identify potential functional sites; however, these approaches generally rely on single static structures and do not use information about dynamics. In fact, structural dynamics can enhance function prediction: we coupled molecular dynamics simulations with structure-based function prediction algorithms that identify Ca 2+ binding sites. When applied to 11 challenging proteins, both methods showed substantial improvement in performance, revealing 22 more sites in one case and 12 more in the other, with a modest increase in apparent false positives. Thus, we show that treating molecules as dynamic entities improves the performance of structure-based function prediction methods.
Mitigating cellular inflammation in older adults: a randomized controlled trial of Tai Chi Chih.

Objectives To evaluate the effects of a behavioral intervention, Tai Chi Chih (TCC) on circulating markers of inflammation in older adults. Design A prospective, randomized, controlled trial with allocation to two arms, TCC and health education (HE), 16 weeks of intervention administration, and 9 weeks follow-up. Participants A total of 83 healthy older adults, aged 59 to 86 years. Measurements The primary endpoint was circulating levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6). Secondary outcomes were circulating levels of C-reactive protein, soluble IL-1 receptor antagonist, soluble IL-6 receptor, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule, and IL-18. Severity of depressive symptoms, sleep quality, and physical activity was also assessed over the treatment trial. Results Among those older adults with high levels of IL-6 at entry, a trend for a treatment group by time interaction was found (F [1,70] = 3.48, p=0.07), in which TCC produced a drop of IL-6 levels comparable to those found in TCC and HE subgroups who had low levels of IL-6 at entry (t 72 's = 0.80, 1.63, p's >0.10), whereas IL-6 in HE remained higher than the TCC and HE subgroups with low entry IL-6 (t 72 = 2.47, p=0.02; t 72 = 1.71, p=0.09). Decreases in depressive symptoms in the two treatment groups correlated with decreases of IL-6 (r = 0.28, p Conclusion TCC can be considered a useful behavioral intervention to reduce circulating levels of IL-6 in older adults who show elevated levels of this inflammatory marker and are at risk for inflammation-related morbidity.
Lensless X-ray imaging in reflection geometry

Lensless X-ray imaging techniques such as coherent diffraction imaging and ptychography, and Fourier transform holography can provide time-resolved, diffraction-limited images. Nearly all examples of these techniques have focused on transmission geometry, restricting the samples and reciprocal spaces that can be investigated. We report a lensless X-ray technique developed for imaging in Bragg and small-angle scattering geometries, which may also find application in transmission geometries. We demonstrate this by imaging a nanofabricated pseudorandom binary structure in small-angle reflection geometry. The technique can be used with extended objects, places no restriction on sample size, and requires no additional sample masking. The realization of X-ray lensless imaging in reflection geometry opens up the possibility of single-shot imaging of surfaces in thin films, buried interfaces in magnetic multilayers, organic photovoltaic and field-effect transistor devices, or Bragg planes in a single crystal.
How much do we know about astigmatism

Sign on the door of an optometrist’s office: ‘The doctor is having a very busy day and is not in a very good mood. Please don’t ask any questions about astigmatism!’ Michael Harris, University of C...
On mismatch problems for plane and elliptic connections

Abstract Some two dimensional (2D) and three dimensional (3D) problems for elastic connections joining two semi-infinite solids subjected to mismatch strains are studied here. Potential functions are developed for the configuration of a single mismatched elliptical connection, corresponding to an external elliptical crack. The 2D plane strain problem of two solids joining over several interactive connections are discussed by an analogy to a mode I tensile crack under remote tension stress. Exact solutions are given for the singular stress field within the connection area and the crack-tip stress intensity factors, induced by the mismatch strains.
Boltzmann equation for a photon gas interacting with a plasma

Abstract The dynamics of a photon gas is described in a Boltzmann-equation formulation for the rate of change of the photon occupation number. The interaction with the electron component of a hydrogen-helium plasma by Compton scattering is introduced as a Fokker-Planck operator. This operator, as well as the total energy exchange rate by Compton scattering, is derived by simple physical arguments from the limiting formula for the case of a zero-temperature nondegenerate electron gas; the effects of stimulated scattering are discussed. Photon production by various atomic processes (bremsstrahlung, direct radiative recombination, line emission, and 2s-1s two-photon continuum emission) is described as source terms in the Boltzmann equation. The spontaneous emission by these atomic processes is conveniently described in terms of the basic bremsstrahlung term which dominates the other atomic processes for kTe ≳ 1 Ry; at lower temperature the other processes, which involve bound atomic states, dominate. Absorption and stimulated emission by the atomic processes are discussed briefly. The process of radiative Compton scattering (double Compton scattering) is evaluated in the limit of low photon energies for interaction with a zero-temperature electron gas; this process is shown to be negligible compared with bremsstrahlung for the important application to the problem of the primordial plasma and photon gas.
A Numerical Technique for the Approximation of Thermal Zones

The concept of thermal zones has been proposed in recent years as a means for providing operational information regarding which physical areas (or zones) in a data center are being supplied by the different air conditioning units, in order to gain insights as to optimal use of cooling equipment [1, 2]. One methodology for computing such thermal zones consists of explicit tracing of streamlines of an air velocity field [2]. In the present work, we propose an alternative technique which does not require explicit tracing of streamlines. Specifically, the problem of identifying thermal zones is being formulated as a boundary value problem for convective transport. Using a numerical method capable of solving convection-dominated problems accurately leads to identification of the zones by a simple postprocessing of the numerical solution of the boundary value problem, making the procedure convenient to apply, especially in three-dimensional domains.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Document image cleanup and binarization

Image binarization is a difficult task for documents with text over textured or shaded backgrounds, poor contrast, and/or considerable noise. Current optical character recognition (OCR) and document analysis technology do not handle such documents well. We have developed a simple yet effective algorithm for document image clean-up and binarization. The algorithm consists of two basic steps. In the first step, the input image is smoothed using a low-pass filter. The smoothing operation enhances the text relative to any background texture. This is because background texture normally has higher frequency than text does. The smoothing operation also removes speckle noise. In the second step, the intensity histogram of the smoothed image is computed and a threshold automatically selected as follows. For black text, the first peak of the histogram corresponds to text. Thresholding the image at the value of the valley between the first and second peaks of the histogram binarizes the image well. In order to reliably identify the valley, the histogram is smoothed by a low-pass filter before the threshold is computed. The algorithm has been applied to some 50 images from a wide variety of source: digitized video frames, photos, newspapers, advertisements in magazines or sales flyers, personal checks, etc. There are 21820 characters and 4406 words in these images. 91 percent of the characters and 86 percent of the words are successfully cleaned up and binarized. A commercial OCR was applied to the binarized text when it consisted of fonts which were OCR recognizable. The recognition rate was 84 percent for the characters and 77 percent for the words.
A Solvent Free Graft Copolymerization of Maleic Anhydride onto Cellulose Acetate Butyrate Bioplastic by Reactive Extrusion

Summary: Interfacial adhesion between fibers and matrix is a crucial factor for effective stress transfer from matrix to fiber; especially in short fiber reinforced composite systems. The use of a chemical compatibilizer is an efficient means to achieve such adhesion. Maleic anhydride-grafted-cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB-g-MA) is one such compatibilizer which can be used in biocomposite fabrication, and this has been synthesized in our laboratory by utilizing a twin-screw reactive extrusion process in the presence of a free radical initiator (2,5-dimethyl-2,5-di(tert-butylperoxy)hexane). The unique feature of this process is its solvent-free approach for grafting of maleic anhydride onto CAB, without hydroxyl group protection. CAB-g-MA was characterized using FTIR as well as by a non-aqueous titration method. The effects of initiator and monomer concentrations and various processing conditions on the graft content were also investigated. The preliminary results show that by adding approximately 10 wt.-% of CAB-g-MA into a plasticized cellulose acetate butyrate (TEB)-industrial hemp fiber biocomposites system, an improvement in tensile strength (20%) and in tensile modulus (45%) were obtained. These results are promising in that they pave the way for future studies involving the use of CAB-g-MA as a suitable compatibilizer for cellulose ester-natural fiber biocomposites.
Blue-sensitive rod input to bipolar and ganglion cells of theXenopus retina

Abstract Intracellular recordings were obtained from chromatic and non-chromatic bipolar cells, identified by Lucifer yellow injection in the Xenopus retina. The chromatic cells, which lacked center-surround organization, were short wavelength hyperpolarizing ( λ max 445nm) and long wavelength depolarizing. Under photopic conditions the depolarizing component was driven by 612 nm cones, but under mesopic conditions it appeared that 524 nm rods also constituted an input to the response. The non-chromatic bipolars encountered were of the off-center (hyperpolarizing) variety, with an active antagonistic surround, and peak spectral sensitivity in the red portion of the spectrum. Extracellular recordings were obtained from color-coded ganglion cells classified as type 1 or 2 in frog retina by Maturana et al. (1966) [ J. gen. Physiol. 43 , 129–175] and Ba¨ckstro¨m and Reuter (1975) [ J. Physiol. 246 , 79–107]. The spectral sensitivity of the long latency “on” component was matched by the density spectrum of the 445 nm rod. This response component lacked center-surround organization and showed a relatively broad area of spatial integration. In contrast, a short latency component had a spectral sensitivity matched by the 612 nm cone pigment under photopic conditions, was either “on” or “off” center, showed center-surround organization and had a relatively small area of spatial integration. We speculate that in Xenopus retina, both chromatic and non-chromatic bipolar cells provide synaptic input to the class 1,2 ganglion cell.
Isolation and characterization of methanogens from animal feces

Summary Methanogenic bacteria were isolated from feces of horse, cow. sheep, pig, rat, goose, chicken and turkey. All isolates were obtained from either direct platings or enrichments of feces with H 2 and CO 2 as the major substrates for production of CH 4 . Morphologic and physiologic characterization and mol % G + C of DNA indicate the predominant methanogens in the large intestines of horse, sheep, goose, cow, pig and rat are members of the genus Methanobrevibacter. Characterization of the chicken and turkey fecal isolates indicate Methanogenium may be a major component in the large intestine of these fowl.
Inhibitory control in people who self-injure: evidence for impairment and enhancement

Self-injury is often motivated by the desire to reduce the intensity of negative affect. This suggests that people who self-injure may have difficulty suppressing negative emotions. We sought to determine whether self-injuring individuals exhibit impaired inhibitory control over behavioral expressions of negative emotions, when responding to images containing aversive emotional content. Self-injuring participants and healthy controls completed a Stop Signal Task in which they were asked to judge the valence (positive or negative) of images. Three types of images depicted emotional content (neutral/ positive/negative). A fourth type depicted self-cutting. An unpredictable “stop signal” occurred on some trials, indicating that participants should inhibit their responses to images presented on those trials. Compared to controls, self-injuring participants showed poorer inhibition to images depicting negative emotional content. Additionally, they showed enhanced inhibition to self-injury images. In fact, selfinjuring participants showed comparable response inhibition to cutting images and positive images, whereas controls showed worse inhibition to cutting images compared to all other types of images. Consistent with the emotion regulation hypothesis of self-injury, people who self-injure showed impaired negative emotional response inhibition. Self-injuring individuals also demonstrated superior control over responses to stimuli related to self-injury, which may have important clinical implications. & 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
The Seasonal Cycles in the Distribution of Precipitation around Cyclones in the Western North Pacific and Atlantic

Abstract The seasonal cycles in the distribution of precipitation around the western North Pacific and Atlantic cyclones have been examined by compositing quantitative estimates of the precipitation rate relative to cyclone centers. The precipitation data sources considered include estimates produced by the 40-yr European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Re-Analysis (ERA-40) project, the satellite-based daily precipitation estimates produced by the Global Precipitation Climatology Project, and estimates derived based on observed weather reports contained in the Comprehensive Ocean–Atmosphere Data Set (COADS). Results from all three datasets suggest that for Pacific cyclones, substantially more precipitation is found in the warm sector in fall than in winter and less precipitation is found behind the cold front in spring and summer than in winter. The seasonal cycle for Atlantic cyclones is found to be distinctly different. The distribution in precipitation around cyclones in fall and wint...
Constraints on models for the flagellar rotary motor

Most bacteria that swim are propelled by flagellar filaments, each driven at its base by a rotary motor embedded in the cell wall and cytoplasmic membrane. A motor is about 45 nm in diameter and made up of about 20 different kinds of parts. It is assembled from the inside out. It is powered by a proton (or in some species, a sodium-ion) flux. It steps at least 400 times per revolution. At low speeds and high torques, about 1000 protons are required per revolution, speed is proportional to protonmotive force, and torque varies little with temperature or hydrogen isotope. At high speeds and low torques, torque increases with temperature and is sensitive to hydrogen isotope. At room temperature, torque varies remarkably little with speed from about -100 Hz (the present limit of measurement) to about 200 Hz, and then it declines rapidly reaching zero at about 300 Hz. These are facts that motor models should explain. None of the existing models for the flagellar rotary motor completely do so.