cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nongenitourinary Infections Caused by Mycoplasma hominis in Adults

Eleven new cases of Mycoplasma hominis infection occurring outside the genitourinary tract in adults not in the puerperium were evaluated in relation to the 25 cases previously reported. Cases of bacteremia (n = 14) were commonly associated with trauma or manipulation of the genitourinary tract and were often self-limited. Wound infections (n = 14) followed surgery by 4-14 days in most cases and may have arisen from contamination from the genitourinary or respiratory tract. Joint infections (n = 5) appeared to have resulted from bacteremic seeding in some cases and affected prosthetic joints in particular. Least frequent were central nervous system infections (one case of meningitis and two of brain abscess) and respiratory tract infections (three cases of empyema). The large majority of patients had fever, and infected fluid collections were commonly purulent. The response to therapy was difficult to assess in many cases, but responses to tetracycline, clindamycin, and drainage alone were observed. Identification of M. hominis requires clinical suspicion and alertness on the part of the bacteriology laboratory.
Synthesis of a Highly Porous Bis(imino)pyridine-Linked Polymer and Its Postsynthetic Modification with Inorganic Fluorinated Ions for Selective CO2 Capture

A novel bis(imino)pyridine-linked porous polymer with high BET surface area of 1580 m2 g–1 was synthesized via a facile condensation reaction between 2,6-pyridinedicarboxaldehyde and 1,3,5-tris(4-aminophenyl)benzene. The polymer was postsynthetically functionalized with Cu(BF4)2 through the complexation of copper cations with bis(imino)pyridine moieties of the polymer, where BF4– ions act as counterions to balance the charge of copper cations. The effect of functionalization on CO2 uptake capacity and selectivity was studied. The functionalization resulted in a 19% enhancement in CO2 binding affinity and 200% increase in CO2 uptake capacity at 0.15 bar. Upon functionalization, CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 selectivity values increased by a factor of up to 6. The functionalized network exhibits high CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 selectivity values of 101 and 20, respectively.
Contamination of Semen and its Effect on Avian Fertility

Abstract MOST poultry breeders have long contended that fertility and hatchability would be lowered if fowl semen were contaminated by fecal material. However, a review of the literature indicates that no scientific investigation has been made concerning this point. METHODS AND PROCEDURE Semen collected by the method of Burrows and Quinn (1937) from 6 sexually mature White Plymouth Rock males was studied in each of three trials. These trials were initiated November 14, November 21, 1966, and May 8, 1968. Males were selected that yielded large volumes of clean semen. The males were housed in individual cages, fed an all-mash breeder ration and water ad libitum. Each semen sample was divided into three portions, and fecal contamination levels added were approximately 0, 1%, and 2% an a dry fecal weight, wet semen basis, as determined by the A.O.A.C. method. (1965). All samples, including control, were stirred on a vortex mixer to. . .
L-n-acetyl-cysteine protection against cisplatin-induced auditory neuronal and hair cell toxicity.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of L-N-acetyl-cysteine (L-NAC) as a protectant for inner ear auditory sensory cells against the toxic effects of cisplatin. Study Design: Prospective laboratory study of the otoprotective effect of L-NAC on auditory neurons and hair cells in vitro. Methods: The study has two arms. The first arm evaluated the neuroprotective effect of L-NAC on early postpartum auditory ganglion cell cultures. Two culture media were used. The two media differed in that one of them was enhanced by the addition of neurotrophins (neurotrophin type 3 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and a growth factor (transforming growth factor-β1). Then the survival of cisplatin-treated auditory neurons was studied before and after pretreatment with protective levels of L-NAC. The second arm of the study evaluated the effect of L-NAC on cisplatin damage initiated to auditory hair cells. Early-postpartum organ of Corti explants were grown in culture. Their rate of survival was studied after exposure to toxic levels of cisplatin. Then, survival of cisplatin-damaged hair cells was studied after they were pretreated with L-NAC. Results: Pretreatment of cultures with L-NAC protected both auditory neurons and hair cells from the effects of exposure to toxic levels of cisplatin. This observed otoprotective effect was dose dependent. Conclusions: Our in vitro studies have demonstrated that L-NAC protected both auditory neurons and hair cells from the toxic effects of cisplatin. Because it protects both of these inner ear structures, L-NAC may be potentially useful in protecting hearing, in general, from cisplatin-induced damage. In addition, L-NAC has low systemic and mucosal toxicity. It also has a low molecular weight that may allow it to readily cross the round window membrane. All these characteristics make it potentially suitable for transtympanic application for the prevention of the ototoxicity of cisplatin in vivo.
Storylines as a Neglected Tool for Mental Health Service Providers and Researchers

Mental health service providers and researchers usually explain psychological/behavioral problems in terms of risk and protective factors. Although such an approach may seem empirical, and thus accurate, the manner in which patients interpret these factors is often overlooked. The result is that practitioners and researchers draw conclusions and make possible causal attributions that do not take into account the perspective of those who are studied or in care. Storylines, however, are a promising strategy to understanding mental health problems that is sensitive to the experiences and situations of people, and can bring into view more relevant details of patients’ lives. This paper provides a theoretically grounded justification for the use of storylines in both mental health practice and research. Storylines are defined, while suggestions are provided for how this framework might be put into practice. A discussion is offered on how storylines might improve the design and implementation of health interventions by requiring these services to become more attuned to the lived experience of patients and the meanings they attach to common risk factors.
Variational two-electron reduced-density-matrix theory: Partial 3-positivity conditions for N -representability

Variationally calculating the ground state of a many-electron quantum system using only the two-electron reduced-density-matrix (2-RDM) requires $N$-representability conditions that constrain the 2-RDM to correspond to an $N$-electron wave function. A systematic hierarchy of $N$-representability conditions, known as $p$-positivity conditions, has been developed [D. A. Mazziotti and R. M. Erdahl, Phys. Rev. A 63, 042113 (2001)], and many-electron atoms and molecules in nonminimal basis sets have been solved with useful accuracy by a variational 2-RDM method with 2-positivity conditions [D. A. Mazziotti, Phys. Rev. Lett. 93, 213001 (2004)]. This paper considers two forms of partial 3-positivity conditions, the lifting conditions and the ${T}_{1}∕{T}_{2}$ conditions, to further enhance the accuracy of the 2-RDM methods without the computational cost of full 3-positivity conditions. Variational 2-RDM methods with different $N$-representability constraints including 2-positivity conditions, the two types of partial 3-positivity conditions, as well as the complete 3-positivity conditions are applied to compute the ground state of the Lipkin spin model. The energies and 2-RDMs are compared to the results from full and truncated configuration interaction, many-body perturbation theory, and couple cluster theory with single and double excitations. Implications of using partial 3-positivity for variational 2-RDM calculations of many-electron atoms and molecules will be discussed.
Dynamic effects in the propagation of a ductile penny-shaped crack

Abstract The propagation of an interior penny-shaped crack in a ductile material subject to uniform tension at infinity is investigated using the methods of Hankel and Laplace transforms. The crack is assumed to be the Dugdale crack which has a uniform tensile yield stress around its crack tip. Exact expressions for the finite stress condition at the crack tip, the crack shape, the crack opening displacement and the energy release rate are obtained and written as the product of explicit dimensional quantities and a non-dimensional dynamic correction function. All the expressions obtained reduce to the associated static results when the crack speed tends to zero. Using an electronic computer, the dynamic correction functions were calculated for various values of the non-dimensional parameters involved. The size of the plastically deformed zone around the crack tip is determined from the finite stress condition. A general, convenient method is described to determine the plastic zone size using the non-dimensional dynamic correction curves. It is shown that the plastic zone width shrinks significantly with increasing crack speed. Due to the inertial effect of the material particles, the crack opening displacement and the energy release rate are also found to decrease with increasing crack speed.
Children's Errors in the Perception of Casual Conversation

Slips of the ear or misperceptions occur when what a listener hears does not correspond to what a speaker has said. Adult misperceptions have provided information about the ways listeners use linguistic knowledge in understanding spoken language. The goal of the investigation is to examine children’s slips of the ear, as a source of information about perception when knowledge of language is still developing. This report is based on over 1000 examples of slips of the ear occurring in casual conversation. The majority of slips have been contributed by interested friends, students and colleagues. The collection includes more than 100 perceptual errors for which children have been the listeners. Children’s misperceptions resemble adult misperceptions, suggesting that children employ the same strategies and sources of information as adults do. However, children’s misperceptions also suggest that they are operating with incomplete linguistic knowledge.
Some remarks on lengths of propositional proofs

We survey the best known lower bounds on symbols and lines in Frege and extended Frege proofs. We prove that in minimum length sequent calculus proofs, no formula is generated twice or used twice on any single branch of the proof. We prove that the number of distinct subformulas in a minimum length Frege proof is linearly bounded by the number of lines. Depthd Frege proofs ofm lines can be transformed into depthd proofs ofO(m d+1) symbols. We show that renaming Frege proof systems are p-equivalent to extended Frege systems. Some open problems in propositional proof length and in logical flow graphs are discussed.
Comprehensive Teacher Induction: A Vision Toward Transformative Teacher Learning

ABSTRACT Few studies have examined the components of induction programs that assist novice teachers in moving beyond survival concerns and emotional support to learning in and from practice. This manuscript highlights research-based elements of comprehensive induction designed to help novices develop the skills for a more meaningful learning experience. It narrows in on a description of two closely intertwined elements of comprehensive induction in the context of the New Teacher Project in California. First, this article explores three aspects of instructional mentoring that facilitate transformative learning. Second, it describes analysis of student work as one possible embedded professional development activity that mentors can use to structure evidence-based conversations with novices about their students' learning. Finally, the manuscript concludes with a call for policymakers to revisit the components of exemplary induction programs and work toward the goal of consistently providing high-quality ment...
Role of long-wavelength degrees of freedom in the rod-to-coil transition in polymers.

An analytical model is fitted to experimental data to show that rod-to-coil (RTC) transformations in single strand polymers (SSPs) are close to true phase transitions. The RTC are known to occur when the temperature or pH of a solvent in which the SSP is immersed is varied abruptly. Long wavelength degrees of freedom in the SSPs induce long range interactions in the molecule which lead to a first order phase transition. The Landau formalism suggests that a long-range ordered state can appear at a low temperature. A microscopic model of the phonon degrees of freedom identifies the nonzero temperature threshold at which the phase transition will occur. The phenomenology described is similar to a previous model for transitions in double-strand polymers.
Supra-paragraph prose structure: its specification, perception, and effects on learning.

The problem of the specification of the molar, or supra-paragraph structure of a prose passage is discussed in terms of unity, sequence, and hierarchy. These ideas were used to generate passages having the same paragraph units but which were organized at different levels of structure. The method of specification was validated in terms of rated structure and effects on learning. The learning effects of level of structure depend on whether the test is for main parts abstraction, within paragraph detail, or rote; and on the mode of presentation, and part-whole level used.
Hermiticity and CPT in string theory

Abstract In the application of conformal field theory to string theory S-matrix elements are obtained from correlation functions of vertex operators. By studying the relation between the vertex operators for the incoming states and those for the outgoing states we obtain two results: First we show that hermiticity of the string vertices is equivalent to the CPT invariance of the corresponding conformal field theory. Secondly we prove that the S-matrix elements in any theory in flat space-time background are invariant under CPT.
A linear program model for point-nonpoint source control decisions: Theoretical development

Abstract A linear programming model for point-nonpoint pollutant source control decisions has been developed. Total phosphorus was highlighted as the water quality substance of concern, although the methodology presented is general enough to permit its use for other substances. The linear program was formulated to minimize the cost of meeting established constraints. Methods to achieve removal of pollutant sources included point and nonpoint (urban and rural) techniques. Constraints were established on the basis of available removal technologies and water quality considerations. The final model is presented in a form such that use of existing linear and separable program software is possible.
In vitro capping in Trypanosoma cruzi identifies and shows specificity for the spliced leader RNA and U-RNAs

Messenger RNA maturation in trypanosomes requires a trans-splicing event in which a capped 39 nucleotide leader sequence, the spliced leader (SL), from the 5' terminus of a small RNA (SL-RNA) is joined to the 5' termini of protein coding gene transcripts. We have developed nuclear extracts from Trypanosoma cruzi that label three small endogenous RNAs in the presence of [alpha-32P]GTP. Herein, we have characterized this labelling as 5' capping and shown that the capping activity exhibits an unusual ATP dependence. Moreover, partial sequence analysis identified the three cap-labelled RNAs as the T. cruzi SL-RNA, and two U-RNAs previously uncharacterized in T. cruzi, U2 and Ux. Finally, the capping reaction in the T. cruzi extracts showed apparent specificity for these RNAs--other endogenous or exogenous transcripts were not capped. The apparent specificity of this in vitro capping activity closely reflects the in vivo requirements; i.e., only the SL- and U-RNAs need to be capped since mature mRNAs are capped via trans-splicing. These observations are consistent with the hypothesis that one of the functions of trans-splicing is to supply 5' caps to mature trypanosome mRNAs.
Percutaneous epidural neuroplasty: Prospective evaluation of 0.9% NaCl versus 10% NaCl with or without hyaluronidase☆

Background and Objectives. Percutaneous epidural neuroplasty (epidural neurolysis, lysis of epidural adhesions) is an interventional pain management technique that has emerged over approximately the last 10 years as part of a multidisciplinary approach to treating radiculopathy with low back pain. In addition to local anesthetic and corticosteroid, hypertonic saline (10% NaCl) and hyaluronidase are used for the technique. The objective of this study was to determine if hypertonic saline or hyaluronidase influenced treatment outcomes. Methods. Eighty-three subjects with radiculopathy plus low back pain were assigned to one of four epidural neuroplasty treatment groups: (a) hypertonic saline plus hyaluronidase, (b) hypertonic saline, (b) isotonic saline (0.9% NaCl), or (d) isotonic saline plus hyaluronidase. Subjects in all treatment groups received epidural corticosteroid and local anesthetic. Results. Twenty-four subjects did not complete the study. Most of the other 59 subjects receiving any of the four treatments as part of their pain management obtained significant relief immediately after treatment. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores for the area of maximal pain (VASmax; back or leg) were reduced in 25% or more of subjects in all treatment groups at all post-treatment follow-up times (1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months). A smaller fraction of subjects treated with hypertonic saline or hyaluronidase and hypertonic saline required more additional treatments than did subjects receiving the other treatments. Conclusions. Percutaneous epidural neuroplasty, as part of an overall pain management strategy, reduces pain (sometimes for over one year) in 25% or more of subjects with radiculopathy plus low back pain refractory to conventional therapies. The use of hypertonic saline may reduce the number of patients that require additional treatments. Reg Anesth Pain Med 1999: 24: 202-207.
Proteasome Inhibitors Activate Stress Kinases and Induce Hsp72 DIVERSE EFFECTS ON APOPTOSIS

Inhibition of the major cytosolic protease, proteasome, has been reported to induce programmed cell death in several cell lines, while with other lines, similar inhibition blocked apoptosis triggered by a variety of harmful treatments. To elucidate the mechanism of pro- and antiapoptotic action of proteasome inhibitors, their effects on U937 lymphoid and 293 kidney human tumor cells were tested. Treatment with peptidyl aldehyde MG132 and other proteasome inhibitors led to a steady increase in activity of c-Jun N-terminal kinase, JNK1, which is known to initiate the apoptotic program in response to certain stresses. Dose dependence of MG132-induced JNK activation was parallel with that of apoptosis. Furthermore, inhibition of the JNK signaling pathway strongly suppressed MG132-induced apoptosis. These data indicate that JNK is critical for the cell death caused by proteasome inhibitors. An antiapoptotic action of proteasome inhibitors could be revealed by a short incubation of cells with MG132 followed by its withdrawal. Under these conditions, the major heat shock protein Hsp72 accumulated in cells and caused suppression of JNK activation in response to certain stresses. Accordingly, pretreatment with MG132 reduced JNK-dependent apoptosis caused by heat shock or ethanol, but it was unable to block JNK-independent apoptosis induced by TNFalpha. Therefore, proteasome inhibitors activate JNK, which initiates an apoptotic program, and simultaneously they induce Hsp72, which suppresses JNK-dependent apoptosis. A balance between these two effects might define the fate of cells exposed to the inhibitors.
Relationship quality coital frequency and condom use as predictors of incident genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection among adolescent women.

Abstract Purpose To explore associations of relationship quality, coital frequency, unprotected coitus, and chlamydia infection over time. Methods Data came from 142 adolescent females with sexually transmitted infections attending three primary care adolescent clinics and one county STD clinic. Interview data were collected at 3 time points: enrollment, 1 month, and 3 months after enrollment. Predictor variables included relationship quality, coital frequency, unprotected coitus, and partner change. The outcome variable was infection with C. trachomatis at 3 months. Analyses were conducted using structural equation modeling. Results Chlamydia infection at 3 months was directly influenced by unprotected coitus during the previous 2 months (Β = .25; p ≤ .05) and partner change during the enrollment/1-month interval. Unprotected coitus was directly associated with coital frequency, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Increased relationship quality was associated with increased coital frequency but did not have direct effects on unprotected coitus. Conclusions The data showed a protective effect of condom use for chlamydia infections. Prevention efforts should attend to the interpersonal factors behind decisions to use or not use condoms.
Use of qualitative methods to map job tasks and exposures to occupational hazards for commercial fishermen

Background Understanding job tasks and estimating occupational exposures is difficult for self-employed or autonomous workers, who tend to be dispersed, with no fixed workplace, employment records, or historical exposure measurements. Methods We used ethnographic methods to collect work information for southern commercial fishermen. Major activities were mapped using the seasonal round, an anthropological tool that records activities of groups whose lifeways depend on natural cycles. Results Fishermen's work schedules depended on boat size, gear, market fluctuations, and regulations, as well as season. The seasonal round guided the analysis of qualitative data on annual cycles of activities increasing understanding of exposures and their variation. Conclusions Combined with detailed exposure information this framework for organizing and categorizing seasonal activities could improve accuracy of exposure information and guide quantitative analysis in work settings that challenge standard exposure assessment methods. Am. J. Ind. Med. 46:23–31, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
MicroRNAs in acute leukemia: from biological players to clinical contributors

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the management of hematopoiesis. As a consequence, miRNA dysregulation causes disruption of the hematopoietic system and leukemia may arise. We here comprehensively discuss miRNAs found discriminative for cytogenetic and molecular subtypes of acute leukemia. These miRNAs are either known miRNAs involved in leukemogenesis with proven tumor suppressor or oncogenic activities or are newly identified by high-throughput sequencing with yet unknown function. Furthermore, forces are outlined that drive aberrant miRNA function, which include genetic abnormalities (for example, deletions, translocations and mutations) and epigenetic aberrations (for example, aberrant DNA methylation or histone modifications). Interestingly, leukemia-silenced miRNAs can be re-expressed upon treatment with de-methylating agents. Targeting miRNA expression may serve a therapeutical role, albeit at present this way of targeted therapy is in its infancy. However, emerging knowledge about the biology of miRNAs in leukemia may result into a role for these miRNAs in the diagnosis and treatment of acute leukemia.
Australia announces plans for expanded marine reserve network

Australia announces plans for expanded marine reserve network The Australian government has announced plans to increase the nation's network of marine reserves from 27 to 60, bringing the total size of the network to 3.1 million square kilometers, Australia's environment minister Tony Burke said on 14 June. The expansion, which would place more than one third of Australia's waters under protection, requires a 60-day consultation before it can become law.
Substance Use among Incarcerated Adolescents: Associations with Peer, Parent, and Community Use of Substances

This study of incarcerated adolescents documents the number and proportion of incarcerated adolescents who use cigarettes, alcohol, and illegal drugs; examines substance use among the adolescents' peers, parents, and community members; and examines associations between incarcerated adolescents' use of substances and substance use by peers, parents, and community members. Questionnaire data indicated that substance use was common among incarcerated adolescents as well as among the adolescents' peers, parents, and community members. Logistic regression analyses revealed that, similar to patterns observed in the general population, peer substance use was the strongest predictor of substance use among incarcerated adolescents.
Stimulation of lac mRNA synthesis by cyclic AMP in cell free extracts of Escherichia coli.

Abstract Cyclic 3′,5′-AMP increases the synthesis of lac mRNA in a cell-free extract of E. coli using λh80dlac DNA as template. Lac mRNA was measured by DNA-RNA hybridization to F'lac DNA and shown to be specific by competition of the 3 H-lac mRNA with unlabeled lac mRNA prepared from whole cells.
Social context and sexual intercourse among first-year students at selective colleges and universities in the United States

Most examinations of sexual behavior ignore social context. Using panel data from the National Longitudinal Study of Freshmen, a panel study of 3924 students at 28 selective colleges and universities, I examine how institutional and peer-group characteristics influence the incidence of sexual intercourse among students during their freshman year. Students who enter college as virgins are more likely to have sexual intercourse on campuses where women comprise a higher proportion of the campus population and on campuses that are more academically rigorous. Students who had sex prior to college are less likely to have sex in college when campuses are more residential. Moreover, having friends who value religion and partying affects the likelihood that a student will have sex irrespective of their prior virginity status. These findings highlight the importance of social context for sexual behavior among college students and in the general population.
Scalar potential formulation for a bianisotropic gyrotropic inhomogeneous medium and associated boundary conditions

Scalar and vector potentials have been recently investigated for use in the electromagnetic analysis of problems involving complex media such as anisotropic and bianisotropic materials. This interest is strongly influenced by the phenomenal advances made in material fabrication capability and the phenomena exclusively associated with complex media. Bianisotropic gyrotropic materials are extremely interesting, both theoretically and experimentally, due to their exotic and non-reciprocal properties.
Monte Carlo simulations of the critical properties of a Ziff-Gulari-Barshad model of catalytic CO oxidation with long-range reactivity.

The Ziff-Gulari-Barshad (ZGB) model, a simplified description of the oxidation of carbon monoxide (CO) on a catalyst surface, is widely used to study properties of nonequilibrium phase transitions. In particular, it exhibits a nonequilibrium, discontinuous transition between a reactive and a CO poisoned phase. If one allows a nonzero rate of CO desorption $(k)$, the line of phase transitions terminates at a critical point $({k}_{c})$. In this work, instead of restricting the CO and atomic oxygen (O) to react to form carbon dioxide $({\mathrm{CO}}_{2})$ only when they are adsorbed in close proximity, we consider a modified model that includes an adjustable probability for adsorbed CO and O atoms located far apart on the lattice to react. We employ large-scale Monte Carlo simulations for system sizes up to $240\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}240$ lattice sites, using the crossing of fourth-order cumulants to study the critical properties of this system. We find that the nonequilibrium critical point changes from the two-dimensional Ising universality class to the mean-field universality class upon introducing even a weak long-range reactivity mechanism. This conclusion is supported by measurements of cumulant fixed-point values, cluster percolation probabilities, correlation-length finite-size scaling properties, and the critical exponent ratio $\ensuremath{\beta}/\ensuremath{\nu}$. The observed behavior is consistent with that of the equilibrium Ising ferromagnet with additional weak long-range interactions [T. Nakada, P. A. Rikvold, T. Mori, M. Nishino, and S. Miyashita, Phys. Rev. B 84, 054433 (2011)]. The large system sizes and the use of fourth-order cumulants also enable determination with improved accuracy of the critical point of the original ZGB model with CO desorption.
An experimental and computational study of methanol oxidation in the intermediate-and high-temperature regimes

Methanol oxidation has been studied experimentally in a variable-pressure flow reactor, from 1 to 20 atmospheres and from 752 to 1,043 K. These conditions encompass both the high- and intermediate-temperature chemical kinetic regimes, as defined by the transition between H + O{sub 2} branching and recombination. The overall consumption path of methanol is unaffected by this transition; however, the data indicate an increasing trend toward molecular hydrogen formation at the high-temperature conditions, with an accompanying delay in energy release. A detailed chemical kinetic model has been developed that successfully reproduces most of the features of methanol oxidation over the conditions studied. Reaction path and sensitivity analysis clearly indicate the importance of the hydroperoxyl radical throughout the conditions, predominantly through the branching reaction path RH + HO{sub 2} {r_equilibrium} R + H{sub 2}O{sub 2}, H{sub 2}O{sub 2} (+M) {r_equilibrium} 2 OH (+M). Under high-temperature conditions, HO{sub 2} also provides a strong termination effect through its reaction with atomic hydrogen. The formaldehyde mole fraction is very sensitive to the rate constant ratio, k{sub CH{sub 2}O + x}/k{sub CH{sub 3}OH + x}, where X = H and OH. Optimal results are obtained with a rate constant for CH{sub 2}O + X approximately 4.7more » times faster than CH{sub 3}OH + X, for both H and OH.« less
A Green's function numerical method for some inverse boundary value problems

Abstract We solve identification problems in potential theory, electrostatics, steady state heat conduction, etc. in conductive plates. A plate with simple shape contains a hole. Either the size, shape, and location of the hole, or the flux across its boundary, is unknown. Boundary conditions are prescribed on part of the plate edge, and voltage or heat is applied to the remainder. An additional measurement is taken on part of the plate edge. From this overspecified data, we determine (1) the structure of the hole, given the flux across its boundary, or (2) the flux across the hole boundary, given the hole. Boundary elements, least squares optimization, and special boundary value properties of Green's functions are exploited in this numerical treatment of the identification problem.
A Microteaching Exercise to Develop Performance-based Abilities in Pharmacy Students

Objective. To create, implement, and evaluate a microteaching exercise to enhance student development of communication skills, critical-thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities. Methods. A microteaching exercise was developed and implemented in 2 semesters of a professional development series. Advisees from 3 classes developed 7-minute presentations for classmates, followed by a brief question-and-answer session. Evaluation and Assessment. Presenters received peer evaluations and a DVD of their presentation and then wrote a reflective essay on their performance. A 33-item survey instrument was administered to assess student impressions of the microteaching exercise. Survey results demonstrated students valued the microteaching exercise in terms of overall impression of the exercise, the class experience, personal outcomes, and the evaluation process. Conclusion. A microteaching exercise is a valuable tool to help students develop communication, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills. Further,...
A Review on Thermally Assisted Machining

Thermally assisted machining (TAM) involves the use of a heating source to elevate the workpiece temperature at the cutting zone to facilitate the material removal process. TAM has evolved over the years with the emergence of new heating sources and the need to machine newly developed hard and brittle materials. In recent years, the main activities in this research area have been focused on laser assisted machining (LAM) at both the macro and micro scale, largely because of focused and controlled delivery of energy that can be achieved with a laser. This paper attempts to provide an overview of research in the general area of TAM, with an emphasis on LAM at the macro scale. Both experimental and theoretical/numerical work will be presented in this review. The challenges and progresses made so far will be detailed. And finally, future research directions in this area will be discussed.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Scalable dynamic binary instrumentation for Blue Gene/L

Dynamic binary instrumentation for performance analysis on new, large scale architectures such as the IBM Blue Gene/L system (BG/L) poses new challenges. Their scale---with potentially hundreds of thousands of compute nodes---requires new, more scalable mechanisms to deploy and to organize binary instrumentation and to collect the resulting data gathered by the inserted probes. Further, many of these new machines don't support full operating systems on the compute nodes; rather, they rely on light-weight custom compute kernels that do not support daemon-based implementations.We describe the design and current status of a new implementation of the DPCL (Dynamic Probe Class Library) API for BG/L. DPCL provides an easy to use layer for dynamic instrumentation on parallel MPI applications based on the DynInst dynamic instrumentation mechanism for sequential platforms. Our work includes modifying DynInst to control instrumentation from remote I/O nodes and porting DPCL's communication to use MRNet, a scalable data reduction network for collecting performance data. We describe extensions to the DPCL API that support instrumentation of task subsets and aggregation of collected performance data. Overall, our implementation provides a scalable infrastructure that provides efficient binary instrumentation on BG/L.
Reactions of ethylene oxide and ethanol in the presence of amberlyst 15: Products and product rate modeling

The reactions of ethylene oxide and ethanol catalyzed by Amberlyst 15 (H+) were studied at 60°, 90°, and 120°C. The concentration ranges investigated at 90°C were 0.9–5 and 0.3–6 mol/1 for the oxide and ethanol, respectively, while the mass of resin taken was in the range of 60 to 28 g. It was found that ethylene oxide reacts with the sulfonic acid groups of the resin to form polymeric ester species which cause catalyst deactivation. Despite the deactivation several reactions occur at 90°C yielding 2-ethoxyethanol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)-ethanol and 1,4-dioxane. Two parallel reaction paths and the overall rate model r = r = C1C2C3/(β1C + β2C2) are proposed for the formation of 2-ethoxyethanol. A back-biting mechanism is tentatively proposed for the formation of 1,4-dioxane from the polymer ester species and the model r = βC3 for its rate of formation. On a etudie, a 60°C, 90°C et 120°C, les reactions de l'oxyde d'ethylene et de l'alcool ethylique catalysees par la resine Amberlyst 15 (H+). Les gammes de concentrations de l'oxyde et de l'alcool qu'on a etudiees a 90 °C ont ete respectivement de 0.9 a 5 mol. /litre et 0.3 a 6 mol./litre; la masse de la resine employee a varie entre 60 et 28 g. On a constate que l'oxyde d'ethylene reagit sur les groupes d'acide sulfonique de la resine pour former des esters polymeriques qui produisent la desactivation du catalyseur. Malgre cette desactivation, plusieurs reactions surviennent a 90°C avec, comme resultat, la formation de 2-ethoxyethanol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)-ethanol et 1,4-dioxane. On propose, pour la formation du 2-ethoxyethanol, deux voies reactionnelles paralleles et le modele de vitesse globale suivant: r = C1C2C3/(β1C + β2C2). On propose, un mecanisme dit de “back-biting” pour la formation du 1,4-dioxane a partir des esters polymeriques ainsi que le modele r = βC3 pour sa vitesse de formation.
Accurate attenuation correction in SPECT imaging using optimization of bilinear functions and assuming an unknown spatially-varying attenuation distribution

We report on an iterative approach to reconstruct both the activity f(x) and the attenuation μ(x) directly frorn the emission sinogram data. The proposed algorithm is based on the iterative methods for solving linear operator equations. Whenever an operator F is the sum of a linear and a bilinear operator, a modified iteration sequence can be defined. Using a Taylor series about a fixed approximate distribution μ 0 , the attenuated Radon transform can be well approximated as the sum of a linear operator in f and a bilinear operator in f and μ. The algorithm alternates between updates of f and updates of μ. In our test computations, the proposed algorithms achieve good reconstruction results both for generated and real data.
Face adaptation does not improve performance on search or discrimination tasks

The face adaptation effect, as described by M. A. Webster and O. H. MacLin (1999), is a robust perceptual shift in the appearance of faces after a brief adaptation period. For example, prolonged exposure to Asian faces causes a Eurasian face to appear distinctly Caucasian. This adaptation effect has been documented for general configural effects, as well as for the facial properties of gender, ethnicity, expression, and identity. We began by replicating the finding that adaptation to ethnicity, gender, and a combination of both features induces selective shifts in category appearance. We then investigated whether this adaptation has perceptual consequences beyond a shift in the perceived category boundary by measuring the effects of adaptation on RSVP, spatial search, and discrimination tasks. Adaptation had no discernable effect on performance for any of these tasks.
Modeling Midazolam's Effect on the Hippocampus and Recognition Memory

The benzodiazepine Midazolam, causes dense, but temporary, anterograde amnesia, similar to that produced by hippocampal damage, Does the action of Midazolam on the hippocampus cause less storage, or less accurate storage, of information in episodic long-term memory? We used a simple variant of the REM model [18] to fit data collected by Hirshman, Fisher, Henthorn, Arndt, and Passannante [9] on the effects of Midazolam, study time, and normative word-frequency on both yes-no and remember-know recognition memory. That a simple Strength model fit well was contrary to the expectations of Hirshman et al. More important, within the Bayesian based REM modeling framework, the data were consistent with the view that Midazolam causes less accurate storage, rather than less storage, of information in episodic memory.
Cognitive architecture for mixed human-machine team interactions for space exploration

With some exceptions, current robotic systems need to be explicitly commanded for interactive tasks with humans. This constraint leads to a reduction in robot-human system level capabilities due to a lack of common grounding, and in addition, the robotic systems are selfcontained with little or no “social” intelligence. A cognitive architecture embodies robotic behaviors and the logical analysis of the surrounding, dynamic operational environment. JPL has developed a formal mathematical model for behavior-based robotic control, inference of human intent from sensed action, learning, and explanation capabilities all based on process algebras. This framework allows robotic systems to autonomously infer intentions/activities of humans through sensing of their actions. This paper describes the Activity Reasoning Module (ARM) that is responsible for this analysis, reviews the formal process algebra framework, and presents an experimental study in simulation of the determination of astronaut activity from sensory analysis of perceived action. 12
Proton Defect Solvation and Dynamics in Aqueous Acid and Base

Easy come, easy go: LEWIS, a new model of reactive and polarizable water that enables the simulation of a statistically reliable number of proton hopping events in aqueous acid and base at concentrations of practical interest, is used to evaluate proton transfer intermediates in aqueous acid and base (picture, left and right, respectively).
Phylogeography of Gracilaria tikvahiae (Gracilariaceae, Rhodophyta): A study of genetic discontinuity in a continuously distributed species based on molecular evidence

Gracilaria tikvahiae, a highly morphologically variable red alga, is one of the most common species of Gracilariaceae inhabiting Atlantic estuarine environments and the Intracoastal Waterway of eastern North America. Populations of G. tikvahiae at the extremes of their geographic range (Canada and southern Mexico) are subjected to very different environmental regimes. In this study, we used two types of genetic markers, the chloroplast-encoded rbcL and the nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, to examine the genetic variability within G. tikvahiae, for inferring the taxonomic and phylogenetic relationships between geographically isolated populations, and to discuss its distributional information in a phylogeographic framework. Based on rbcL and ITS phylogenies, specimens from populations collected at the extreme distributional ranges reported for G. tikvahiae are indeed part of the same species; however, rbcL- but not ITS-based phylogenies detected phylogenetic structure among the ten G. tikvahiae different haplotypes found in this study. The four distinct rbcL lineages were identified as 1) a Canadian-northeast U.S. lineage, 2) a southeast Florida lineage, 3) an eastern Gulf of Mexico lineage, and 4) a western Gulf of Mexico lineage. We found no evidence for the occurrence of G. tikvahiae in the Caribbean Sea. Observed phylogeographic patterns match patterns of genetic structures reported for marine animal taxa with continuous and quasicontinuous geographic distribution along the same geographic ranges.
Scalability of the CTH Shock Physics Code on the Cray XT

This paper presents an overview of an explicit message-passing paradigm for an Eulerian finite volume method for modeling solid dynamics problems involving shock wave propagation, multiple materials, and large deformations. Three-dimensional simulations of highvelocity impact were conducted on two scalable high performance computing systems to evaluate the performance of the message-passing code. Simulations were performed using greater than three billion computational cells running on more than 8,000 processor cores. The performance of the messagepassing code was found to scale linearly on the two computer systems evaluated across the range of cases considered.
The Effect of Freestream Turbulence on Deposition for Nozzle Guide Vanes

An evaluation of the effect of free-stream turbulence intensity on the rate of deposit accumulation for nozzle guide vanes was performed using the TuRFR accelerated deposition facility. The TuRFR allowed flows up to 1350 K at inlet Mach numbers of 0.1 to be seeded with coal fly ash particulate in order to rapidly evaluate deposit formation on CFM56 nozzle guide vanes. Hot film and PIV measurements were taken to assess the free-stream turbulence with and without the presence of a grid upstream of the NGVs. It was determined that baseline turbulence levels were approximately half that of the flow exiting typical gas turbine combustors and were reduced by approximately 30 percent with the grid installed. Deposition tests indicated that the rate of deposition increases as the free-stream turbulence is increased, and that this increase depends upon the particle size distribution. For ash with a mass median diameter of 4.63 μm, the increase in capture efficiency was approximately a factor of 1.7, while for ash with a larger median diameter of 6.48 μm, the capture efficiency increased by a factor of 2.4. The increase in capture efficiency is due to the increased diffusion of particles to the vane surface via turbulent diffusion. Based on these results, smaller particles appear to be less susceptible to this mechanism of particle delivery. Overall, the experiments indicate that the reduction of turbulence intensity upstream of nozzle guide vanes may lead to reduced deposit accumulation, and, consequently, increased service life. A CFD analysis was performed at turbulence levels equivalent to the experiments to assess the ability of built-in particle tracking models to capture the physics of turbulent diffusion. Impact efficiencies were shown to increase from 21 percent to 73 percent as the free-stream turbulence was increased from 5.8 to 8.4 percent. An analysis incorporating the mass of the particles into the impact efficiency resulted in an increase of the mass-based impact efficiency from 17 percent to 27 percent with increasing turbulence. Relating these impact efficiencies directly to capture efficiencies, the predicted increase in capture efficiency with higher turbulence is much less than that observed in the experiments. In addition, the variation in impact efficiencies between the two ash sizes was much smaller than the capture efficiency difference from experiments. This indicates that the particle tracking models are not capturing all of the relevant physics associated with turbulent diffusion of airborne particles.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Structural vibration analysis by a progressive simultaneous iteration method

This paper provides details of a newly developed structural eigenproblem solution technique that effects simultaneous convergence of a set of desired roots and associated vectors in an accurate and efficient fashion. The procedure is based on a progressive simultaneous iteration method, that enables effective computation of either the first few or a specified number of intermediate roots and associated vectors without having to compute any other. Numerical results pertaining to some practical problems are also presented that testify to the superior convergence characteristics of the present procedure when compared with other existing ones.
Low-dose-rate brachytherapy as salvage treatment of local prostate cancer recurrence after radical prostatectomy.

Objectives To present our initial experience with brachytherapy used as a salvage procedure for local recurrence of prostate cancer in the prostatic fossa after radical prostatectomy. Methods The patients included 5 consecutive men who underwent brachytherapy as a salvage procedure after radical prostatectomy from December 2006 to March 2008. We used a technique of implanting the local recurrences similar to the American Brachytherapy Society Guidelines for implanting an intact prostate as definitive therapy. 1 Two modifications were made related to the recurrence location: a rare need to manage urethral doses because the recurrence was typically perirectal, and more aggressive management of the dose to the rectum because of this proximity. Results All patients tolerated the brachytherapy procedure well and showed a decline in the prostate-specific antigen level, with a median nadir of 0.72 ng/mL at a median follow-up of 13 months. The postprocedural symptoms were minor and included limited new-onset urgency. At the last follow-up visit, all patients had prostate-specific antigen doubling times, which have been associated with long median survival times. Conclusions Salvage brachytherapy for biopsy-proven local recurrence of prostate cancer is a technically feasible alternative to external beam radiotherapy for local control of recurrences in the prostatic fossa in selected patients after radical prostatectomy.