cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An effective method for isolating DNA from historical specimens of baleen

DNA was isolated from an early twentieth century museum specimen of northern right whale baleen. A system of stringent controls and a novel set of cetacean specific primers eliminated contamination from external sources and ensured the authenticity of the results. Sequence analysis revealed that there were informative nucleotide positions between the museum specimen and extant members of the population and closely related species. The results indicate that museum specimens of baleen can be used to assess historical genetic population structure of the great whales.
Endoscopic transventricular selective amygdalohippocampectomy: cadaveric demonstration of a new operative approach.

Objective The microsurgical anatomy of the temporal region has been well described. However, there is a paucity of information about the transventricular endoscopic anatomy of the mesial temporal lobe, and little is known about endoscopic approaches to this region. In this report, we describe the technique of endoscopic amygdalohippocampectomy (AH). The endoscopic anatomy of the mesial temporal region both before and after AH is shown. Methods We used 4 silicon-injected cadaver heads for the study in our minimally invasive neurosurgery laboratory. The lateral ventricle was accessed through an occipital burr hole. Results Predissection transventricular endoscopic anatomy of this region showed the choroid plexus, hippocampus, amygdala, choroid fissure, and collateral eminence. The hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus, and amygdala were removed endoscopically, keeping the pia on the inferior surface of the mesial temporal region intact. Postdissection anatomy of the mesial temporal region showed a clear view of the brainstem, posterior cerebral vessels, choroidal vessels, and tentorium. Conclusions We studied the transventricular endoscopic anatomy of the mesial temporal region and described a technique for safe endoscopic AH. The advantages and potential risks of endoscopic AH are discussed, along with suggestions for minimizing complications. We believe that knowledge of the endoscopic anatomy of the mesial temporal lobe will be useful for endoscopic AH and the removal of other lesions in this region.
The luminosity function of galactic X-ray sources - A cutoff and a 'standard candle'

Analysis of the 2- to 10-kev luminosity distribution of 36 X-ray sources in the Local Group having known or estimated distances, showing that there exists a luminosity cutoff of approximately 10 to the 37.7th ergs/sec in agreement with the theoretical (Eddington) limit for the luminosity of an approximately 1 solar mass star. Furthermore, among the complete sample of high-luminosity sources, there appears to be a statistically significant group of X-ray 'standard candles' at (within less than 0.8 mag) the critical luminosity. This finding (which is in agreement with the self-consistent mass flow accretion models) presents the possibility that X-ray sources may be used as extragalactic distance indicators in the next generation of X-ray astronomy experiments.
Direct Component Modal Synthesis Technique for System Dynamic Analysis

A method for substructure modal synthesis to determine the modal parameters of a structure is investigated. The order of the solution matrix does not depend on the number of substructure modes used. Instead, it depends only on the number of connections between substructures. The eigensolution determined by this method is exact. Since the system dynamic matrix equation is not needed in this method, numerical computations required for the solution are drastically reduced. The eigensolutions of the system in any frequency range can be obtained independently. Computation is reduced because lower or higher eigensolutions outside the interested frequency range are not required to be calculated. The results obtained by this technique and the analytical method are compared, and they are identical.
The critical exponent η of the planar model from one-dimensional quantum field theory

Abstract The one-dimensional quantum field approach of Luther and Scalapino to describe the critical properties of the planar model is reviewed. The model they use is a one-dimensional spin-1 model with impurities. It is shown that the continuum limit version of this model, which is obtained by replacing the lattice by a cut-off in momentum space, does not describe the original spin-1 model, but instead a region of the phase diagram where the impurity excitations are massless. Still the results are consistent with those of Kosterlitz and Thouless if backward scattering and umklapp processes are taken into account in the derivation of the continuum limit. The critical exponent of η is equal to 1 4 at the infinite-order phase transition.
Observations of in-situ generated gravity waves during a stratospheric temperature enhancement (STE) event

Abstract. Evidence for in situ generated atmospheric gravity waves associated with a stratospheric temperature enhancement (STE) are presented. The signatures of two sets of gravity waves are observed by molecular-aerosol lidar in conjunction with the early December 2000 STE event above Sondrestrom, Greenland. The first set of gravity waves shows downward phase progression with a vertical wavelength of ~8 km while the second set shows upward phase progression with a vertical wavelength of ~9 km. With estimates of the background wind fields from synoptic analyses, the various intrinsic gravity wave parameters of these two wave structures are found. The observed wave features compare well to previous numerical modeling predictions.
Simple Algorithms for the On-Line Multidimensional Dictionary and Related Problems

The on-line multidimensional dictionary problem consists of executing \mbox{on-line} any sequence of the following operations: INSERT($p$), DELETE($p$) and MEMBERSHIP($p$), where $p$ is any (ordered) $d$-tuple (or string with $d$ elements, or points in $d$-space where the dimensions have been ordered). We introduce a clean structure based on balanced binary search trees, which we call multidimensional balanced binary search trees, to represent the set of $d$-tuples. We present algorithms for each of the above operations that take $O(d + \log n)$ time, where $n$ is the current number of $d$-tuples in the set, and each INSERT and DELETE operation requires no more than a constant number of rotations. Our structure requires $dn$ words to represent the input, plus $O(n)$ pointers and data indicating the first component where pairs of $d$-tuples differ. This information, which can be easily updated, enables us to test for MEMBERSHIP efficiently. Other operations that can be performed efficiently in our multidimensional balanced binary search trees are: print in lexicographic order ($O(dn)$ time), find the (lexicographically) smallest or largest $d$-tuple ($O(\log n)$ time), and concatenation ($O(d + \log n)$ time). Finding the (lexicographically) $k^{th}$ smallest or largest $d$-tuple can also be implemented efficiently ($O(\log n)$ time), at the expense of adding an integer value at each node.
Application of a Pilot Study to the Development of an Industrial Hygiene Sampling Strategy

An industrial hygiene pilot study was conducted to estimate the concentrations of respirable dust likely to be encountered during the personal sampling phase of a large-scale morbidity study of the portland cement industry. An analysis of the pilot study data showed little variability in exposure for subjects working in the same job in the same area of the same plant. Thus, one could estimate mean exposure by sampling several subjects rather than sampling the same subject several times. It was concluded that for statistical considerations, the best approach would be to sample four jobs per area and six subjects per job. Practical considerations required one more often to select six jobs with two subjects per job, however. Overall, the collection of fewer samples was required during the morbidity study than was anticipated originally. In turn, the reduction in the number of samples to be collected resulted in a savings of time and resources.
Demonstration of the heat removing capabilities of the EPR core catcher

Abstract The EPR implements an additional, fourth level of defense-in-depth that aims at limiting and restricting the consequences of a postulated severe accident with core melting to the immediate vicinity of the plant. As this requires an intact confinement, it is necessary, among others, to avoid an attack of the molten core on the basemat. For that purpose, the EPR includes a large ex-vessel core catcher. It increases the surface-to-volume ratio of the melt after its release from the reactor pressure vessel (RPV) and allows the effective quenching and stabilization of the melt before it can attack the structural concrete. The bottom and sides of the core catcher are cooled by a system of horizontal water-filled channels. The water is provided either passively, by overflow from an internal reservoir, or actively by the containment heat removal system (CHRS). To quantify the heat removing capability of the horizontal part of the proposed cooling structure, a set of experiments in a full-scale, horizontal, 5 m long cooling channel have been performed. To simulate decay heat, the channel was electrically heated from the top. The experiment was integrated in the BENSON test rig, a highly flexible, separate-effect test facility operated by Framatome ANP. In accordance with the potential later modes of operation, both co-current and counter-current flow of the water/steam mixture have been investigated. The tests demonstrated the good-natured behavior of the system, even for induced heat fluxes that significantly exceed realistically expectable maximum values. Although, at high heat fluxes, a local dry-out occurred at the top of the channel, structural temperatures remained in a safe range. This excellent performance is attributed to the fact that heat can enter the water through both the horizontal and vertical surfaces of the cooling channel. As a result a high, effective critical heat flux (CHF) level is achieved. The performed tests yield a valuable contribution to the validation of the function of the EPR core catcher concept.
Poly(thieno[3,4-b]thiophene): A p- and n-Dopable Polythiophene Exhibiting High Optical Transparency in the Semiconducting State

Herein we report the synthesis and electrochemical characterization of poly(thieno[3,4-b]thiophene), a new low band gap conducting polymer with a high redox switching stability that exhibits high optical transparency in the semiconductive state. The monomer, thieno[3,4-b]thiophene (T34bT), has a low oxidation potential for polymerization, 1.02 V vs Ag/Ag+ (1.25 V vs SCE), a potential between that for the oxidation of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiopene and pyrrole. Poly(T34bT) has a band gap of ca. 0.85 eV (1459 nm) as determined by the onset for the π-to-π* transition from the UV−vis−NIR spectrum and 0.8 V from the difference in the onsets for both the p- and n-doping processes from cyclic voltammetry. Stability studies as determined from chronocoulometry and chronoabsorptometry indicate that the polymer retains 95% electroactivity and 96% change in optical density after 100 double potential steps. Poly(T34bT) is sky-blue in the reduced form and optically transparent (no observable color) in the oxidized state wit...
Some representations of solutions of elliptic equations

Abstract The Dirichlet problem for the region of the plane inside closed smooth curve C for second-order elliptic equations is considered. It is shown that under certain circumstances the solution u can be written uniquely in the form u(P) = ∝cF(P, Q) g(Q) dsQ, where F(P, Q) is the fundamental solution of the elliptic equation, and g ϵ L2 if the boundary value function f is absolutely continuous with square integrable derivative (f ϵ W); and u(P) = p(F(P, ·)) where p is a unique bounded linear functional on W if f ϵ L2. These representations are valid in the exterior of C also. As special cases with slight modifications, the exterior Dirichlet problems for the Helmholtz and Laplace equations are mentioned. It is shown also that if kernel F(P′, Q), with P′ and Q on C, has a complete set of eigenfunctions {ψk(P′)} then u(P) can be expanded in a series of their extensions {ψk(P)}, where ψk(P) = λk ∝cF(P, Q) ψk(Q) dsQ.
Volume reflection holograms with multiple gratings: an experimental and theoretical evaluation.

A coupled wave model for two multiplexed reflection holograms recorded in a volume material is presented. Both simultaneously and sequentially formed gratings are evaluated. The effects of a strong intermodulation grating, the thickness change with emulsion processing, and the construction geometry on the desired diffraction orders are investigated over a range of reconstruction angles. The model results are compared with experimental data from holograms formed in bleached photographic emulsions.
Static structure factor of gaseous helium

Abstract The static structure factor of helium gas has been measured at densities of 3.45 × 10−3, 2.66 × 10−3 and 1.95 × 10 −3 moles cm 3 at a temperature of 4.995 K. The results are in qualitative agreement with the limited theoretical work available.
Planungs- und Beschaffungskriterien für Supercomputer

Der Hochstleistungsrechner ist ein einzigartiges Instrument der Forschung. Noch nie in der Geschichte der Wissenschaft konnte die Leistung eines technischen Forschungsinstrumentes — durch drei Jahrzehnte hinweg und zum konstanten Preis — um einen Faktor 10 alle funf Jahre verbessert werden. Forscher, die die jeweils neueste Generation dieser Maschinen einsetzen, konnen besonders relevante Ergebnisse erwarten. Es obliegt daher dem Dienstleistungsrechenzentrum, durch rechtzeitige Beschaffungen und planmasigen Ausbau fur diese Moglichkeit zu sorgen.
Influence of endogenous parathyroid hormone on citrate and lactate production by bone in vitro.

SummaryFemora removed from rats with varying levels of endogenous parathyroid secretion were incubated in pooled rat serum. Samples of the media were analyzed for citrate, lactate, and C14-incorporation into these 2 acids from labelled glucose added to the incubation media. Both citrate and lactate production by bone cells decreased within 4 hours after parathyroidectomy. Differences in citrate production were readily detectable in a 2-hour incubation; 6 hours of incubation were required to show differences in lactate formation. While lactate accumulated in the media throughout the incubation, citrate reached a peak and leveled off suggesting recycling. The largest incorporation of radioactivity from glucose into citrate was also seen at 2 hours. At this time incorporation into lactate was negligible; however, by 6 hours radioactivity in lactate equalled the highest value observed for citrate. Incubation of diaphyseal and metaphyseal separately demonstrated greater citrate production in the diaphysis; con...
DURATION OF BREAST-FEEDING

Aspects affecting the duration of breast-feeding are reviewed. The duration of breast-feeding is not related to the emergence of incisor teeth in the infant. Some of the important factors influencing the duration of breast-feeding include the adequacy of human milk for the infants growth and nutritional needs the likely depletion of fetal stores (hepatic iron) the development of immunity to infections which are earlier protected against by transplacental antibodies and the active and passive effects of milk the decrease in the allergy-prone phase of early infancy the onset of physiological maturity and endocrinological factors in the mother. Sociocultural and economic factors also have a bearing on the duration of breast-feeding. In relatively well developed countries breast-feeding alone for 4-6 months offers the infant excellent growth and health benefits. In resource-poor countries breast-feeding for 1-2 years offers a small but important dietary supplement to the weaning diet and continuing but declining contraceptive effect.
Computing confidence intervals for stochastic simulation using neural network metamodels

This paper discusses the use of supervised neural networks as a metamodeling technique for discrete-event, stochastic simulation. An (s, S) inventory simulation from the literature is translated into a metamodel through development of parallel neural networks, one estimating expected total cost and one estimating variance of expected total cost. These neural network estimates are used to form confidence intervals, which are compared for coverage to those formed directly by simulation. It is shown that the neural network metamodel is quite competitive in accuracy when compared to the simulation itself and, once trained, can operate in nearly real-time. A comparison of metamodel performance under interpolative versus extrapolative predictions is made.
Experiments on circular cylinders in crossflow at Reynolds numbers up to 7 million

This paper describes a series of experiments conducted on polished circular cylinders in the Reynolds number range from 100,000 to 7 million. The experiments were conducted in a pressurized wind tunnel wherein Mach number and Reynolds number could be independently varied. Three models were used with aspect ratios of 10, 5 and 2.5. Measurements were also made in two grid-generated turbulent flows with intensities of 5% and 13%. In addition to force balances at each end of the models, 32 pressure taps were embedded in a circumferential ring at mid-span and along the leeward generator. Both time-averaged and unsteady data are discussed. The pressure-tap data provide a detailed understanding of the unsteady flow, including vortex shedding, around the cylinder in different flow regimes. The presence of turbulence can change the flow state and hence the steady and unsteady loads. Compressibility effects are shown to exist above a Mach number of 0.3.
Anetodermic cutaneous changes overlying pilomatricomas

Five pilomatricomas with anetodermic cutaneous changes and striae are presented. Pink to translucent, atrophic, scarlike skin that covers a typical pilomatricoma occurs most commonly in young women. Histopathologic examination showed an atrophic, edematous dermis with diminished, fragmented collagen fibers and absent elastic tissue.
Note: The complexity of power-index comparison

Abstract We study the complexity of the following problem: Given two weighted voting games G ′ and G ″ that each contain a player p , in which of these games is p ’s power index value higher? We study this problem with respect to both the Shapley–Shubik power index and the Banzhaf power index. Our main result is that for both of these power indices the problem is complete for probabilistic polynomial time (i.e., is PP -complete). We apply our results to partially resolve some recently proposed problems regarding the complexity of weighted voting games. We also study the complexity of the raw Shapley–Shubik power index. Deng and Papadimitriou showed that the raw Shapley–Shubik power index is #P -metric-complete. We strengthen this by showing that the raw Shapley–Shubik power index is many–one complete for #P . And our strengthening cannot possibly be further improved to parsimonious completeness, since we observe that, in contrast with the raw Banzhaf power index, the raw Shapley–Shubik power index is not #P -parsimonious-complete.
So-called sclerosing hemangioma of lung: current concept

Sclerosing hemangioma of the lung is a rare neoplasm with polymorphic histologic features. Despite various patterns, there are 2 unifying cellular components: "surface cells" and "round cells." Although histogenesis has been debated for decades, most ultrastructural, immunocytochemical, and molecular studies strongly indicate a neoplastic epithelial derivation for both cellular components. Herein, we present a review of sclerosing hemangioma and summarize the essential data regarding histologic, cytologic, and ancillary findings of this distinctive pulmonary neoplasm.
Age-Associated Decline in IL-4 Production by Murine T Lymphocytes in Extended Culture

Aging leads to an increase in the proportion of cells that have the surface phenotype (CD45RBlo, CD44hi) characteristic of memory T lymphocytes and also to a decline in both the production of IL-2 and the response to this lymphokine. Several groups have reported an increase, with age, in the secretion of IL-4 in short-term T cell cultures and have suggested that this increase could reflect the age-dependent accumulation of memory T cells, which are thought to be principally responsible for IL-4 production in young mice. Because the response to IL-2 declines with age, we hypothesized that IL-4 production would also decline with age if tested under conditions that promoted IL-2-driven expansion and maturation of IL-4-secreting effectors. Using a culture system in which T cells are first activated by immobilized anti-CD3 antibody for 2 days, and then cultured with anti-CD3 plus IL-2 for an additional 9-11 days, we found a 3-fold decline with age in IL-4 production by murine splenic CD4 T cells. Under these conditions memory (CD45RBlo) CD4 T cells from young mice produced 22-fold more IL-4 than the reciprocal naive (CD44lo) subset. Production of IL-4 by old T cells was also largely attributable to memory T cells, but memory cells from these old donors generated 6-fold less IL-4 in extended cultures than memory cells from young donors. Cultured memory (but not naive) T cells increase in number over a 9-day interval, but the amount of expansion by young memory cells is 4-fold higher than that for old cells. We conclude that the production of IL-4 by memory T cells declines with age under conditions that promote IL-2-driven proliferation and differentiation.
Polymerization of Ftsz, a bacterial homolog of tubulin. is assembly cooperative?

Abstract FtsZ is a bacterial homolog of tubulin that is essential for prokaryotic cytokinesis. In vitro, GTP induces FtsZ to assemble into straight, 5-nm-wide polymers. Here we show that the polymerization of these FtsZ filaments most closely resembles noncooperative (or “isodesmic”) assembly; the polymers are single-stranded and assemble with no evidence of a nucleation phase and without a critical concentration. We have developed a model for the isodesmic polymerization that includes GTP hydrolysis in the scheme. The model can account for the lengths of the FtsZ polymers and their maximum steady state nucleotide hydrolysis rates. It predicts that unlike microtubules, FtsZ protofilaments consist of GTP-bound FtsZ subunits that hydrolyze their nucleotide only slowly and are connected by high affinity longitudinal bonds with a nanomolarK D.
Colorimetric detection of thiol-containing amino acids using gold nanoparticles

This paper reports findings of an investigation of the unusual colorimetric change of gold nanoparticles in the presence of thiol-containing amino acids such as homocysteine, cysteine and glutathione. The colorimetric change for homocysteine exhibits a rate that is about two orders of magnitude higher than that for cysteine, and at least five orders of magnitude higher than that for glutathione. The reactivity is effectively reduced or suppressed by the coexistence of either cysteine or glutathione. It is believed that the reactivity involves encapsulation of the particles by the thiol-containing amino acids which is followed by crosslinking at the encapsulating shells. In comparison with cysteine and glutathione, homocysteine has a slower encapsulating rate but a faster crosslinking rate. Implications of the findings of the interfacial encapsulation and crosslinking reactivities of gold nanoparticles to potential nanoparticle-enhanced analytical detection of thiol-containing amino acids are also briefly discussed.
Adrenal Insufficiency in an Adult on Inhaled Corticosteroids; Recovery of Adrenal Function with Inhaled Nedocromil Sodium

Background Whereas oral corticosteroids and high-dose inhaled corticosteroids may be associated with suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, medium-dose inhaled corticosteroids have not been reported to be associated with clinically significant adrenal insufficiency in the adult. Objective A case study of adrenal responsiveness after prolonged medium-dose inhaled corticosteroids and after replacement of steroid therapy by inhaled nedocromil sodium is described. Methods Standard 250-microgram dose ACTH (cosyntropin) stimulation tests were followed after replacement of inhaled triamcinolone acetonide therapy by nedocromil sodium. Results A 55-year-old woman who had been on inhaled triamcinolone acetonide, 1600 micrograms/day for 12 years, presented with symptoms of adrenal hypofunction upon inhaled corticosteroid taper. An ACTH stimulation test confirmed adrenal insufficiency. She was switched to inhaled nedocromil sodium with improvement in her clinical syndrome and normalization of her ACTH stimulation test. Conclusion Withdrawal from prolonged use of inhaled medium-dose corticosteroids may be associated with clinically significant adrenal insufficiency in adults. Steroid sparing agents may be considered for those on long-term inhaled corticosteroid therapy.
Effect of system of feeding and watering on performance of lactating sows.

An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of ad libitum access to feed and water and the option to mix feed and water, all in the same feeder, on the performance of multiparous lactating sows. Feed and water were made available to sows using a self-fed wet/dry (SFWD) or a hand-fed (HF) feed-water system. In the SFWD system, feed and water were dropped into a common trough area of the feeder. The sow determined when and how much of each was dropped. With feed falling onto the flat area of the bottom of the SFWD feeder trough and water falling into the shallow bowl area, and with the 2 areas seamlessly connected, the sow also determined the wetness of the feed consumed. In the HF system, sows were given dry feed twice daily in a J-shaped feeder that was independent of the sow's water source. Sows (n = 114) were assigned to treatments based on parity and genotype. Total feed disappearance per sow during lactation (20 +/- 0.2 d) was greater (P 0.66) between treatments. However, sows with the SFWD system wasted less water (P < 0.01) than those with the HF system (15 vs. 232 +/- 12 L, respectively). From a commercial swine production perspective, the difference in waste water volume would result in a significant variation in costs associated with manure storage and distribution. In conclusion, use of a SFWD feed-water system in lactation, which provides sows choices of when to eat, how much to eat, and if dry feed should be mixed with water during consumption, enhances sow appetite, improves litter growth performance, and wastes less water than a HF feed-water system.
LOW-COST, BATTERY OPERATED, DUAL WAVELENGTH CONTINUOUS WAVE NEAR INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY DEVICE FOR BEDSIDE MONITORING OF NEWBORN BRAIN

We present a low-cost, battery operated, dual-wavelength, continuous wave near infrared spectroscopy system for continuous bedside monitoring of neonatal brain. Preliminary test results on adults are provided.
3D Orthognathic Surgery Simulation Using Image Fusion

Advancements in computers and imaging especially over the last 10 years have permitted the adoption of three-dimensional imaging protocols in the healthcare field. Additionally, the affordability and ease of use of these modalities allows their widespread adoption and use in diagnosis and treatment planning. This is particularly important when the deformities are complex involving both function and esthetics such as those in the dentofacial area and with orthognathic surgery. Image fusion involves combining images from different imaging modalities to create a virtual record of an individual called a patient-specific anatomical reconstruction (PSAR). This can then be used to perform virtual surgery and establish a definitive and objective treatment plan for correction of the facial deformity. The end result is improved patient care and decreased expense.
Multilayer bandaging plus compression hosiery was better than hosiery alone for unilateral lymphedema of a limb

Source Citation Badger CM, Peacock JL, Mortimer PS. A randomized, controlled, parallel-group clinical trial comparing multilayer bandaging followed by hosiery versus hosiery alone in the treatment ...
Fuzzy logic control of chip form during turning

Abstract Chips produced during lathe turning should be broken so as to prevent snarling and to enhance heat removal from the tool. At present, conservatively written part programs for computer numerically controlled lathes are fine tuned by a human machine operator to produce desirable chip length. K. W. Yee and coworkers have produced an acoustic emission chip form monitor. The use of such an acoustic emission sensor in a simulated chip length control system is described. In this paper a fuzzy logic controller is then substituted for the conventional linear controller.
Kinematic assumptions for sandwich beams

Much of the work done on active and passive constrained-layer beams is done with models using kinematic assumptions proposed by Kerwin, Mead and Markus, and others. The key assumption is that the base and constraining layers undergo identical transverse displacements, which is a reasonable assumption when the middle layer (here a viscoelastic material) is thin and the constraining layer is relatively weak. There are, however, many practical cases where an effective passive damping design requires the stiffness of the constraining layer to be on the order of that of the base layer. If the base structure is stiff to begin with, a constraining layer that will produce good damping is likely to violate the above stated assumption by refusing to follow the base layer exactly. The question arises as to how this affects predictions of damping. In this work the facesheets are treated as independently deforming Timoshenko beams, which results in a more general state of strain in the core material. Expressions for the potential and kinetic energies are developed from basic principles of continuum mechanics, and the assumed modes method is used to predict how levels of strain energy in the core are affected by the assumptions on the relative motions of the facesheets.
Architecture Design of a Data Intensive Satellite Image Processing and Distribution System

High-speed and cost-effective architecture design has become a great challenge for future dataintensive scalable high performance computing (HPC) systems. In this paper, we discuss the significant architecture design challenges of a large scale satellite images processing and distribution system maintained by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Earth Resources Observation and Science Center (EROS). Specifically, we conduct a real world case study on 1) how can changing workload greatly affect existing system architecture; 2) how does EROS's new system architecture adapt to the significant workload changes; and 3) how to further optimize the performance of the current EROS system.
Power generation and organics removal from wastewater using activated carbon nanofiber (ACNF) microbial fuel cells (MFCs)

Abstract Carbon-based materials are the most commonly used electrode material for anodes in microbial fuel cell (MFC), but are often limited by their surface areas available for biofilm growth and subsequent electron transfer process. This study investigated the use of activated carbon nanofibers (ACNF) as the anode material to enhance bacterial biofilm growth, and improve MFC performance. Qualitative and quantitative biofilm adhesion analysis indicated that ACNF exhibited better performance over the other commonly used carbon anodes (granular activated carbon (GAC), carbon cloth (CC)). Batch-scale MFC tests showed that MFCs with ACNF and GAC as anodes achieved power densities of 3.50 ± 0.46 W/m3 and 3.09 ± 0.33 W/m3 respectively, while MFCs with CC had a lower power density of 1.10 ± 0.21 W/m3 In addition, the MFCs with ACNF achieved higher contaminant removal efficiency (85 ± 4%) than those of GAC (75 ± 5%) and CC (70 ± 2%). This study demonstrated the distinct advantages of ACNF in terms of biofilm growth and electron transport. ACNF has a potential for higher power generation of MFCs to treat wastewaters.
Application of a gripping system to test a uniaxial graphite fiber reinforced composite /PMR 15/Celion 6000/ in tension at 316 C

A gripping system has been developed to test uniaxial, 0 deg orientation PMR 15/Celion 6000 composites at elevated temperatures. The method involves compression of grit-blasted laminate between grit-blasted metal to give a non-slipping interface for load transfer. Tensile testing at both 316 C and room temperature indicated that deformation was elastic to fracture and that the variation in tensile properties for one laminate is the same as that for several panels. In addition, the tensile properties for uniaxial PMR 15/Celion 6000 are identical at 316 C and room temperature. For nominally 51 volume percent fiber, the elastic modulus is 119.6 GPa, the fracture stress is 1370 MPa, and the strain to fracture is about 1.15 percent. In addition, data are presented which indicate that the gripping system can be used for long term, elevated temperature testing of composite materials.
Effect of Initial Velocity Profile on the Development of Round Jets

Theeffectsofnonuniforminitialvelocityproe lesonthedownstreamevolutionofroundturbulentincompressible jets have been investigated experimentally. Jets evolving from two nonuniform initial velocity proe les, one with an axisymmetric fully developed proe le and the other with an asymmetric initial proe le, were compared to jets with top-hat initial velocity distributions. The Reynolds number of the present jets was 2 :4 £ 10 4 , based on the exit bulk velocity and the source diameter. The jets exited from pipes of circular cross section. For the jet with the axisymmetric initial velocity, the pipe was straight and produced a fully developed proe le at the exit. For the jet with the initially asymmetric velocity distribution, the e ow passed through a 90-deg bend in the pipe before exiting. Velocity measurements were carried out using hot-wire anemometry extending from the exit plane up to 80 jet diameters downstream. The evolution of both jets towards a self-preserving state is rapid. The initial asymmetry of the second jet vanishes by 9 pipe diameters. By 15 pipe diameters, the mean velocity proe les of both jets are self-preserving and follow very well the Gaussian distribution. Although the far-e eld mean and turbulent trends of the present jets are qualitatively similar to those jets with uniform initial-velocity distributions, there are some quantitative differences between them. The present jets develop into a self-preserving state faster than those jets with a uniform initial-velocity proe le. On the other hand, the initial growth of turbulence intensities and the far-e eld decay rates of the present jets are smaller than the jets with uniform initial-velocity proe les.
Separation of hafnium from zirconium in sulfuric acid solutions using pressurized ion exchange

Abstract High-resolution, pressurized ion exchange has been used successfully to study and separate hafnium sulfate and zirconium sulfate complexes from Dowex 50W-X8 (15–25 μm) resin by chromatographic elution with sulfuric acid solutions. Techniques were developed to continuously monitor the column effluents for zirconium and hafnium by reaction with fluorometric and colorimetric reagents. Since neither reagent was specific for either metal ion, peak patterns were initially identified by using the stable isotopes 90 Zr and 180 Hf as “fingerprints” of their elution position. Distribution ratios for both zirconium and hafnium decrease as the inverse fourth power of the sulfuric acid concentration below 1.5 N and as the inverse second power at higher acid concentration. The hafnium-to-zirconium separation factor is approximately constant (≈8) over the 0.5–3 N range. Under certain conditions, an unseparated fraction was observed that was not retained by the resin. The amount of this fraction, which is thought to be a polymeric hydrolysis product, appears to be a function of metal and sulfuric acid concentrations. Conditions are being sought that will give the highest zirconium concentration and the lowest acid concentration that can be used as a feed material for commercial scale-up in the continuous annular chromatographic (CAC) unit without formation of the polymer.
Software fault tree analysis for product lines

The current development of high-integrity product lines threatens to outstrip existing tools for product-line verification. Software Fault Tree Analysis (SFTA) is a technique that has been used successfully to investigate contributing causes to potential hazards in safety-critical applications. This paper adapts SFTA to product lines of systems. The contribution is to define: (1) the technique to construct a product-line SFTA; and (2) the pruning technique required to reuse the SFTA for the analysis of a new system in the product line. The paper describes how product-line SFTA integrates with forward-analysis techniques such as Software Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Analysis (SFMECA), supports requirements evolution, and helps identify previously unforeseen constraints on the systems to be built. Applications to two small examples are used to illustrate the technique.
Satisfactions and Challenges in Spiritual Faith and Practice for Persons with Dementia

In the past decade, there has been greater attention given to the role of religion and spirituality in coping with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. This research has focused largely on caregivers with much less attention given to those afflicted with the disease. This qualitative study examines the role of religion and spirituality in the lives of persons with dementia. Quotes from 27 individuals with Alzheimer's and one person with frontal temporal dementia reveal the following themes: the role of religion or spirituality in finding meaning in dementia; the role of religion or spirituality in coping with the disease; the influence of dementia on religious or spiritual practices; and the influence of dementia on faith. Findings illuminate the importance of including the perspective of the person with dementia in assessments and interventions aimed at understanding and addressing the spiritual needs of families.
Protective coatings on aluminum by spontaneous polymerization

A novel process to form protective polymer coatings on aluminum using spontaneous polymerization is described. When an aluminum sample is immersed in a partly aqueous monomer solution, polymerization proceeds rapidly on the metal surface, without the addition of initiator, at room temperature. The polymer coatings studied here were formed using styrene (St), N-phenyl maleimide (NPMI), 2-methacryloyloxy acetoacetate (MEA), and bis-maleimide (BMI), monomers, from solutions of different compositions. A possible mechanism for spontaneous initiation and propagation is proposed. The effects of process variables such as polymerization time, monomer concentration, and monomer ratios in feed on the coating thickness and properties are presented. The glass transition temperatures, adhesion strength to aluminum, thermal stability and corrosion resistance of these coatings are reported. The coatings obtained are up to 50 μm thick and conform to the shape of the substrate. They have excellent thermal stability, low dielectric constant, and show very good resistance to corrosion under the ASTM B-117 accelerated salt fog test. Other monomers and metals may also be used.
Efficient Video-Stream Filtering

A new approach for video-stream filtering that makes use of the features representing video content and exploits the properties of metric spaces can help reduce the filtering receiver's computational load.
An adaptable finite element modelling kernel

Abstract This paper describes a finite element kernel designed to provide high levels of adaptability and flexibility for modelling and analysis. The kernel is based on high-level abstractions that can be used to create a variety of interactive finite element-based modelling applications. The structure and functionality of the kernel are embedded in frameworks and classes of objects which encapsulate modelling and computational capabilities in modular form. Sample uses of the kernel are illustrated via prototype modelling applications, including a direct manipulation modelling environment, which exemplifies the type of application for which the modelling capabilities of the kernel are well suited.
Square Root Laws for Fire Engine Response Distances

An inverse square-root function is developed for the relation between average response distance and the number of locations at which response units are stationed in a region. Analysis of theoretical models, simulation data, and empirical measurements are used to confirm the square-root model. The square-root response distance model is combined with response distance---response time relations to resolve decision problems important to the management of urban fire departments. The results can be used to find optimal resource allocations given resource constraints and response time standards, or to describe the response time consequences of proposed allocation plans.
New tools in combinatorial optimization

Two tools are further explored in applications to combinatorial optimization. The waiting-time distribution (WTD) is formed by running several hundred examples of a given algorithm as applied to a specific optimization problem. This distribution allows direct comparison of algorithms for a given problem. It also motivates restarting the algorithm from the beginning in order to (sometimes greatly) speed up the solution. A second tool is similar. The algorithm is run several hundred times to a maximum number of steps (the threshold) and the criterion value achieved to this point is recorded. The subsequent criterion-value distribution (CVD) allows the algorithm to be tuned quite conveniently for the problem at hand. Finally, an example is shown of the application of these tools to the comparison of a new optimization algorithm SOAR to random search for a moderately hard combinatorial-optimization problem.
Functional assay for human CD4+CD25+ Treg cells reveals an age-dependent loss of suppressive activity.

CD4 + CD25 + regulatory T cells (Treg cells) prevent T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases in rodents. To develop a functional Treg assay for human blood cells, we used FACS- or bead-sorted CD4 + CD25 + T cells from healthy donors to inhibit anti-CD3/CD28 activation of CD4 + CD25 - indicator T cells. The data clearly demonstrated classical Treg suppression of CD4 + CD25 - indicator cells by both CD4 + CD25 + h i g h and CD4 + CD25 + l o w T cells obtained by FACS or magnetic bead sorting. Suppressive activity was found in either CD45RO - (naive) or CD45RO + (memory) subpopulations, was independent of the TCR signal strength, required cell-cell contact, and was reversible by interleukin-2 (IL-2). Of general interest is that a wider sampling of 27 healthy donors revealed an age- but not gender-dependent loss of suppressive activity in the CD4 + CD25 + population. The presence or absence of suppressive activity in CD4 + CD25 + T cells from a given donor could be demonstrated consistently over time, and lack of suppression was not due to method of sorting, strength of signal, or sensitivity of indicator cells. Phenotypic markers did not differ on CD4 + CD25 + T cells tested ex vivo from suppressive vs. nonsuppressive donors, although, upon activation in vitro, suppressive CD4 + CD25 + T cells had significantly higher expression of both CTLA-4 and GITR than CD4 + CD25 - T cells from the same donors. Moreover, antibody neutralization of CTLA-4, GITR, IL-10, or IL-17 completely reversed Treg-induced suppression. Our results are highly consistent with those reported for murine Treg cells and are the first to demonstrate that suppressive activity of human CD4 + CD25 + T cells declines with age.
Analyzing composability in a sparse encoding model of memorization and association

A key question in neuroscience is how memorization and association are supported by the mammalian cortex. One possible model, proposed by Valiant, uses sparse encodings in a sparse random graph, but the composability of operations in this model (e.g. an association triggering another association) has not previously been evaluated. We evaluate composability by measuring the size of ldquoitemsrdquo produced by memorization and the propagation of signals through the ldquocircuitsrdquo created by memorization and association. While the association operation is sound, the memorization operation produces ldquoitemsrdquo with unstable size and produces circuits that are extremely sensitive to noise. We therefore amend the model, introducing an association stage into memorization. The amended model preserves and strengthens the sparse encoding hypothesis and invites further characterization of properties such as capacity and interference.
White Mothers Negotiating Race and Ethnicity in the Mothering of Biracial, Black-White Adolescents

Abstract Eleven White mothers of biracial, Black/White adolescents were interviewed in a qualitative study to determine whether and how these mothers socialize their children to issues of race and ethnicity. The majority of the women were raising their children with a focus exclusively on an African American culture and not including elements of an ethnicity germane to the mother. Their children identified as biracial privately and Black publicly. The specific strategies utilized by the women to foster ecological competence are discussed.
Adherence of Candida albicans to Silicone Induces Immediate Enhanced Tolerance to Fluconazole

Wild-type and efflux pump-deficient cells of Candida albicans adhering to silicone were compared with planktonic cells by flow cytometry for their relative resistance to fluconazole (FCZ). Flow cytometry data on cells carrying a fusion of green fluorescent protein to efflux pump promoters confirmed that enhanced tolerance of attached cells to FCZ was due in part to increased expression of CaMDR1 and CDR1 promoters. Within 2 h of their attachment to silicone, the adherent cells demonstrated levels of FCZ tolerance shown by cells from 24-h biofilms. Following their mechanical detachment, this subset of cells retained a four- to eightfold increase in tolerance compared with the tolerance of planktonic cells for at least two generations. Enhanced efflux pump tolerance to FCZ appeared to be induced within the initial 15 min of attachment in a subset of cells that were firmly attached to the substrata.
Synthesis of a gold nanoparticle dimer plasmonic resonator through two-phase-mediated functionalization

We report that Au nanoparticles, ligand-exchanged with a thiol ligand at the liquid-liquid interface, were dimerized using an N,N'-diisopropylcarbodiimide-mediated amide bond formation. This dimerization of 60 nm sized Au nanoparticles achieved 24% overall yield and was visually confirmed by transmission electron microscopy as well as by scanning electron microscopy images. The resultant electromagnetic field enhancement of a single Au nanoparticle dimer was proven by dark field spectroscopy which, in turn, made the Au nanoparticle dimer suitable for molecular sensing applications, such as in surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Our dimerization method demonstrated that the synthesis of Au nanoparticle dimers with a high yield and enhanced optical properties of the dimers were possible. Our methodology also has good prospects as regards the formation of nanoscale building blocks.