cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A consistent and conservative Phase-Field model for thermo-gas-liquid-solid flows including liquid-solid phase change

Abstract In the present study, a consistent and conservative Phase-Field model is developed to study thermo-gas-liquid-solid flows with liquid-solid phase change. The proposed model is derived with the help of the consistency conditions and exactly reduces to the consistent and conservative Phase-Field method for incompressible two-phase flows, the fictitious domain Brinkman penalization (FD/BP) method for fluid-structure interactions, and the Phase-Field model of solidification of pure material. It honors the mass conservation, defines the volume fractions of individual phases unambiguously, and therefore captures the volume change due to phase change. The momentum is conserved when the solid phase is absent, but it changes when the solid phase appears due to the no-slip condition at the solid boundary. The proposed model also conserves the energy, preserves the temperature equilibrium, and is Galilean invariant. A novel continuous surface tension force to confine its contribution at the gas-liquid interface and a drag force modified from the Carman-Kozeny equation to reduce solid velocity to zero are proposed. The issue of initiating phase change in the original Phase-Field model of solidification is addressed by physically modifying the interpolation function. The corresponding consistent scheme is developed to solve the model, and the numerical results agree well with the analytical solutions and the existing experimental and numerical data. Two challenging problems having a wide range of material properties and complex dynamics are conducted to demonstrate the capability of the proposed model.
Limits and possibilities of refractive index in atomic systems

Abstract Manipulation of the refractive index has been of growing interest lately. We consider parameters and possibilities of enhancing the absolute-value limit of the linear index in coherent atomic systems. Starting with a review of how two-level transitions – without and with added coherence effects – do not realistically allow for a significantly enhanced index at fixed atomic density, we discuss a possible way around this using wave mixing. This confirms that the only parameters, besides the medium optical depth/density, that can effectively change the value of the attainable index are the frequencies of the involved transitions.
Estimation of the Scatterer Size Distributions in Quantitative Ultrasound Using Constrained Optimization

Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameters such as the effective scatterer diameter (ESD) reveal tissue properties by analyzing ultrasound backscattered echo signal. ESD can be attained through parametrizing backscatter coefficient using form factor models. However, reporting a single scatterer size cannot accurately characterize a tissue, particularly when the media contains scattering sources with a broad range of sizes. Here we estimate the probability of contribution of each scatterer size by modeling the measured form factor as a linear combination of form factors from individual sacatterer sizes. We perform the estimation using two novel techniques. In the first technique, we cast scatterer size distribution as an optimization problem, and efficiently solve it using a linear system of equations. In the second technique, we use the solution of this system of equations to constrain the optimization function, and solve the constrained problem. The methods are evaluated in simulated backscattered coefficients using Faran theory. We evaluate the robustness of the proposed techniques by adding Gaussian noise. The results show that both methods can accurately estimate the scatterer size distribution, and that the second method outperforms the first one.
Data Readiness Report

Data exploration and quality analysis is an important yet tedious process in the AI pipeline. Current data cleaning and data readiness assessment practices for machine learning tasks are mostly conducted in an arbitrary manner which limits their reuse and often results in loss of productivity. We introduce the concept of a Data Readiness Report as accompanying documentation to a dataset that allows data consumers to get detailed insights into the quality of data. Data characteristics and challenges on various quality dimensions are identified and documented, keeping in mind the principles of transparency and explainability. The Data Readiness Report also serves as a record of all data assessment operations, including applied transformations. This provides a detailed lineage for data governance and management. In effect, the report captures and documents the actions taken by various personas in a data readiness and assessment workflow. Over time this becomes a repository of best practices and can potentially drive a recommendation system for building automated data readiness workflows on the lines of AutoML [1]. The data readiness report could serve as a valuable asset for organizing and operationalizing data in a Data-as-a-service model as it augments the trust and reliability of the datasets. We anticipate that together with the Datasheets [2], Dataset Nutrition Label [3], FactSheets [4] and Model Cards [5], the Data Readiness Report completes the AI documentation pipeline and increases trust and re-useability of data.
An Axiomatic Theory of Provably-Fair Welfare-Centric Machine Learning

We address an inherent difficulty in welfare-theoretic fair machine learning by proposing an equivalently axiomatically-justified alternative and studying the resulting computational and statistical learning questions. Welfare metrics quantify overall wellbeing across a population of one or more groups, and welfare-based objectives and constraints have recently been proposed to incentivize fair machine learning methods to produce satisfactory solutions that consider the diverse needs of multiple groups. Unfortunately, many machine-learning problems are more naturally cast as loss minimization tasks, rather than utility maximization, which complicates direct application of welfare-centric methods to fair machine learning. In this work, we define a complementary measure, termed malfare, measuring overall societal harm (rather than wellbeing), with axiomatic justification via the standard axioms of cardinal welfare. We then cast fair machine learning as malfare minimization over the risk values (expected losses) of each group. Surprisingly, the axioms of cardinal welfare (malfare) dictate that this is not equivalent to simply defining utility as negative loss. Building upon these concepts, we define fair-PAC (FPAC) learning, where an FPAC learner is an algorithm that learns an $\varepsilon$-$\delta$ malfare-optimal model with bounded sample complexity, for any data distribution, and for any (axiomatically justified) malfare concept. Finally, we show broad conditions under which, with appropriate modifications, standard PAC-learners may be converted to FPAC learners. This places FPAC learning on firm theoretical ground, as it yields statistical and computational efficiency guarantees for many well-studied machine-learning models, and is also practically relevant, as it democratizes fair ML by providing concrete training algorithms and rigorous generalization guarantees for these models
Residual Pathway Priors for Soft Equivariance Constraints

There is often a trade-off between building deep learning systems that are expressive enough to capture the nuances of the reality, and having the right inductive biases for efficient learning. We introduce Residual Pathway Priors (RPPs) as a method for converting hard architectural constraints into soft priors, guiding models towards structured solutions, while retaining the ability to capture additional complexity. Using RPPs, we construct neural network priors with inductive biases for equivariances, but without limiting flexibility. We show that RPPs are resilient to approximate or misspecified symmetries, and are as effective as fully constrained models even when symmetries are exact. We showcase the broad applicability of RPPs with dynamical systems, tabular data, and reinforcement learning. In Mujoco locomotion tasks, where contact forces and directional rewards violate strict equivariance assumptions, the RPP outperforms baseline model-free RL agents, and also improves the learned transition models for model-based RL.
Cognitive Science as a Source of Forward and Inverse Models of Human Decisions for Robotics and Control

Those designing autonomous systems that interact with humans will invariably face questions about how humans think and make decisions. Fortunately, computational cognitive science offers insight in...
Bigness of the tangent bundle of del Pezzo surfaces and D-simplicity

We consider the question of simplicity of a ring $R$ under the action of its ring of differential operators $D_R$. We give examples to show that even when $R$ is Gorenstein and has rational singularities $R$ need not be a simple $D_R$-module; for example, this is the case when $R$ is the homogeneous coordinate ring of a smooth cubic surface. Our examples are homogeneous coordinate rings of smooth Fano varieties, and our proof proceeds by showing that the tangent bundle of such a variety need not be big. We also give a partial converse showing that when $R$ is the homogeneous coordinate ring of a smooth projective variety $X$, embedded by some multiple of its canonical divisor, then simplicity of $R$ as a $D_R$-module implies that $X$ is Fano and thus $R$ has rational singularities.
Fully-Heterogeneous Containment Control of a Network of Leader-Follower Systems

This paper develops a distributed solution to the fully-heterogeneous containment control problem (CCP), for which not only the followers' dynamics but also the leaders' dynamics are non-identical. A novel formulation of the fully-heterogeneous CCP is first presented in which each follower constructs its virtual exo-system. To build these virtual exo-systems by followers, a novel distributed algorithm is developed to calculate the so-called normalized level of influences (NLIs) of all leaders on each follower, and a novel adaptive distributed observer is designed to estimate the dynamics and states of all leaders that have an influence on each follower. Then, a distributed control protocol is proposed based on the cooperative output regulation framework, utilizing this virtual exo-system. Based on estimations of leaders' dynamics and states and NLIs of leaders on each follower, the solutions of the so-called linear regulator equations are calculated in a distributed manner, and consequently, a distributed control protocol is designed for solving the output containment problem. Finally, theoretical results are verified by performing numerical simulations.
Nongeminate radiative recombination of free charges in cation-exchanged PbS quantum dot films

Abstract Using photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy we explore the radiative recombination pathways in PbS quantum dots (QDs) synthesized by two methods. We compare conventionally synthesized PbS from a PbO precursor to PbS synthesized using cation-exchange from CdS QDs. We show that strongly coupled films of PbS QDs from the cation-exchange luminesce with significant efficiency at room temperature. This is in stark contrast to conventional PbS QDs, which have exceedingly weak room temperature emission. Moreover, the power dependence of the emission is quadratic, indicating bimolecular radiative recombination that is reasonably competitive with trap-assisted recombination, a feature previously unreported in coupled PbS QD films. We interpret these results in terms of a greatly reduced defect concentration for cation-exchanged QDs that mitigates the influence of trap-assisted recombination. Cation-exchanged QDs have recently been employed in highly efficient and air-stable lead chalcogenide QD devices, and the reduced number of trap states inferred here may lead to improved current collection and higher open circuit voltage.
How Does Agent Causality Work

My purpose is to understand, sympathetically but critically, the novel concept of agent causality, which Professors Roderick Chisholm and Richard Taylor have championed in recent philosophy of action. I want to appreciate, and determine the viability of, this notion which they alone have bothered to exposit in detail. I have encountered just one clear anticipation of it:1 C. D. Broad’s tentative hypothesis that perhaps we engage in “non-occurrent causation of events” when we act (1952/reprinted 1962, p. 131; see pp. 119–122, 124, 1290- Chisholm’s and Taylor’s own views of the unique causal tie of deed to doer hardly coincide in all particulars. For that matter, Chisholm’s present “concept of an agent undertaking something, as expressed in ‘S undertakes to bring it about that p9’” (p. 199),2 does not seem to me to fit Chisholm’s earlier notions of agent-causing—as I show in Section I. Yet Chisholm’s previous work does share with Taylor’s and Broad’s accounts one challenging fundamental idea: that a person may bring about movements of his own body, but without doing anything else, then or antecedently, in order to accomplish this. The causal relationship here is supposed to be radically unlike what we find when one or more events propagate another. It is not only unnecessary for the agent-causer to do anything overt as a means of making his limbs move.
Moving Collaboration Upstream

Land use controversies are typically mishandled due to lack of process planning. This article creates a framework for re-imagining land use decisions to encourage and promote more collaborative processes earlier in the decision-making process. The author discusses the shifting role of the process manager (facilitator/mediator) as the process progresses as well as the role of stakeholders and advisers.
Filter design method for construction of 3D plasmonic directional light sensors

We propose an analytic method for plasmonic filter design, freeing the design process from time-consuming FDTD simulations. We demonstrate the utility of the design model by constructing a prototype 3D plasmonic directional light sensor.
The Web That Extends beyond the World

The Web evolved much more rapidly than was probably envisioned when it was invented two decades ago. The authors present their vision for the Web's next two decades by identifying important research directions that can help extend its reach further. The Web extra at https://youtu.be/2Pd6bnxCknk is a video in which author Vishnu S. Pendyala expands on the article "The Web That Extends beyond the World," discussing the future of the Web, and how it can extend to other planets.
Information needs of the continuing urban transportation planning process

Urban transportation is identified as a functional element in the broader context of urban facilities and services. From this point of view, the relative merits of separate information systems for transportation planning and general urban planning, as contrasted to unified systems for all urban management functions, are discussed. The overriding need to make the most effective use of urban resources argues strongly for the unification of urban information systems to the greatest possible extent consistent with the special data requirements of various functional programs. The need to identify and correlate data items for very small areal units and to keep current records of the constantly shifting patterns of social and economic activities in urban areas present difficult, but not insurmountable technical problems. However, the most serious barrier to the development and implementation of comprehensive urban information systems is concluded to be institutional, rather than technical, in nature.
The effects of teachers' wait‐time and knowledge comprehension questioning on science achievement

The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate the effects of varied teacher wait-time durations and cognitive questioning levels on student achievement. Thirty preservice teachers taught a science lesson in which the length of wait-time and percentage of high and low cognitive questions were prescribed. The lessions were audio-taped to insure fidelity to the scripted lessons. At the end of the lesson a criterion referenced test was administered. The results of this test were used as the dependent variable. Analysis of achievement results indicated significant differences attributable to teacher wait-time and cognitive questioning level.
Mites in pulmonary cytology specimens

Mites were observed in 55 pulmonary specimens examined routinely over a 4.5-yr period. The 55 specimens included 33 spontaneous and 12 aerosol-induced sputum samples, nine bronchial washings, and one fine-needle aspirate. Two specimens contained only fragments of mites; however, in most cases the mites were relatively intact. Many were identified as Tyrophagus sp, but a few were definitely not Tyrophagus sp. Although only a single mite was noted in most instances, eight specimens contained more than one, with the maximum being six. No patient was found to have a mite in more than one specimen. Mite eggs were found in five of the specimens containing mites. One specimen contained adults and a larval form. Mites appeared to be surrounded by acute inflammatory cells in 13 cases. Specimens were processed by the Saccomanno blending technique with smears prepared by pipetting a portion directly onto a slide or by utilizing a cytocentrifuge. No mites were found in nonpulmonary specimens. Both a seasonal variation and an interobserver variability were found. Mites often resemble specimen contaminants, such as food, and may be overlooked on routine screening. Mites are known to represent or produce a respiratory allergen, but the significance of their presence in pulmonary cytology specimens has not been determined.
Why there is something rather than nothing: Matter from weak interactions

Abstract We show how the baryon number of the universe may be created by anomalous weak interactions during a first-order weak phase transition, in both conventional two-Higgs doublet models and in the supersymmetric standard model. The process we analyze involves non-equilibrium charge transport during the phase transition. Given current estimates of anomalous baryon violation rates, the models we examine are capable of producing a baryon-to-entropy ratio as large as ρ B /s ⋍ 10 −6 for maximal CP violation and optimal phase transition characteristic - many orders of magnitude larger than found with previously proposed mechanisms. Thus the observed value ρ B /s ⋍ 10 −10 can be easily explained by weak interaction physics in a manner that may eventually be experimentally verifiable.
Electrooptic properties of absorbing spheroids.

The electrodichroic ratio qr0 for suspensions of absorbing spheroids has been calculated using dipolar light scattering theory. This theory predicts, in accordance with experimental observations on Varad suspensions, that the transmission will usually be higher when the particles are aligned nose-on in the incident beam than in the random state. The effect of complex refractive index and of the axial ratio of the spheroids upon qr0 is discussed in some detail. It appears that metals having the refractive properties of aluminum offer the best possibility for preparing optical windows from these suspensions.
Right-sided transient paralysis of the diaphragm in anewborn infant

Summary A case of transient paralysis of the right side of the diaphragm due to socalled isolated phrenic nerve injury in a newborn infant is reported. Signs of respiratory distress and cyanosis appeared on the fourth day of life. The diagnosis was made on the seventh day by means of fluoroscopy. The relatively prompt relief of the symptoms with restoration of the functionof the diaphragm nine days after symptoms began, and six days after institution of treatment, showed the transient nature of the phrenic nerve injury in this case. Regeneration of the injured nerve sufficient to allow normal impulses to the diaphragm was undoubtedly made possible by resting of the nerve through the method of treatment used which consisted of placing the infant on the right side to splint it and by giving continuous oxygen and gavage feedings. This case has the shortest duration on record of acute symptoms and signs commonly associated with diaphragmatic paralysis, and is the first one in which the described methods of treatment are reported. This is the first recognized case of diaphragmatic paralysis in the NewBorn Service of the Jewish Hospital and is the eighth recorded case without accompanying brachial paralysis.
Mice with RyR1 mutation (Y524S) undergo hypermetabolic response to simvastatin

Background Statins are widely used drugs for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. Though relatively safe, some individuals taking statins experience rhabdymyolysis, muscle pain, and cramping, a condition termed statin-induced myopathy (SIM). To determine if mutations in the skeletal muscle calcium (Ca2+) release channel, ryanodine receptor type 1 (RyR1), enhance the sensitivity to SIM we tested the effects of simvastatin, the statin that produces the highest incidence of SIM in humans, in mice with a mutation (Y524S, ‘YS’) in RyR1. This mutation is associated with malignant hyperthermia in humans. Exposure of mice with the YS mutation to mild elevations in environmental temperature produces a life-threatening hypermetabolic response (HMR) that is characterized by increased oxygen consumption (VO2), sustained muscle contractures, rhabdymyolysis, and elevated core body temperature.
A novel Pd/MgAlOx catalyst for NOx storage-reduction

Abstract A novel NO x storage-reduction catalyst consisting of Pd dispersed on a magnesium–aluminum oxide (MgAlO x ) support is described. The MgAlO x support was prepared from a synthetic Mg/Al layered double hydroxide, and Pd bis-acetylacetonate (acac) was adsorbed onto the freshly calcined support from toluene. The Pd/MgAlO x catalyst was pretreated in either O 2 or H 2 at 500 °C to decompose the adsorbed [Pd(acac) 2 ] and remove organic residues. NO x adsorption experiments were conducted at 300 °C using two gas mixtures: 500 ppm NO 2 , 6% O 2 and 10% CO 2 (bal. He) and 500 ppm NO, 500 ppm N 2 and 5% O 2 (bal. He). Temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) and diffuse-reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) evidence that NO 2 adsorption on MgAlO x produces primarily surface nitrate species. The adsorption capacity of the support for NO + O 2 is four-fold lower than for NO 2 . Temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) in flowing H 2 demonstrates that surface nitrate and nitrite species on MgAlO x are reduced to N 2 at 300–400 °C. The adsorption capacity of Pd/MgAlO x for NO + O 2 is almost four-fold greater than MgAlO x evidencing a catalytic role of Pd in the NO x storage mechanism. TPR in flowing H 2 indicates that the adsorbed NO x species are removed at very low temperatures (∼50 °C) suggesting that they are located near the catalytically active Pd sites.
Future Selves and Aging: Older Adults' Memory Fears.

ABSTRACT Thoughts about the self in the future, called possible selves, are an important component of the current identity of individuals. This study specifically focused on possible selves in the domain of memory and cognition. Both older and younger groups spontaneously reported possible selves in the cognitive domain, e.g., “learning a new skill,” but younger adults did not spontaneously mention any memory-related possible selves. In contrast, almost 1/3 of our well-educated older adults reported possible selves related to memory—and nearly half had memory or cognitive concerns. Furthermore, every older adult who spontaneously listed a memory self also selected this as his or her “most dreaded” feared self. These people reported engaging in physical and mental exercise to try to prevent this feared self from materializing. Although fears about cognition and memory are important in the self-concept of well-educated older adults, these individuals also appear to have a proactive approach to dealing with ...
TIA incidence and prevalence: the Stroke Belt perspective.

A 12-state area in the southeastern United States (figure) has been dubbed the “stroke belt” because there is excess stroke mortality in this region for both black and white Americans.1 There is heterogeneity of stroke mortality in this geographic area, with the highest rates being reported in a 153-county area of the coastal plain states of Georgia and the Carolinas. The precise reason for this excess has been a topic of debate and controversy.2 More recently, it has been observed that the stroke belt may be breaking up as excess rates of stroke mortality spread into the lower Mississippi Valley3 and possibly into the northwestern United States.4 This section of the supplement reviews the prevalence of TIA based on reports from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study5 and a study conducted in Evans County, Georgia.6 Figure. The “Stroke Belt” in the southeastern United States is composed of 11 states, part of another (southern Indiana*), and the District of Columbia. (Map/inset design and concept contributed by Michael McClain, Art Director, and Fred Balzac, Editor, of Chase Medical Communications, Wilton, CT, USA, based in part on a map provided by the National Stroke Association.) The ARIC Study is a prospective study of independent-living adults 45 to 64 years of age in Forsyth, North Carolina, Jackson, Mississippi, suburban …
Utility of Echocardiographic Radial Strain Imaging to Quantify Left Ventricular Dyssynchrony and Predict Acute Response to Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy

Echocardiographic strain imaging was used to quantify radial mechanical dyssynchrony in 38 patients who underwent cardiac resynchronization therapy. Dyssynchrony, defined as the time difference of peak radial strain in the septum versus the posterior wall, was significantly greater in patients with acute hemodynamic responses, and changes in radial dyssynchrony correlated with changes in stroke volume. A ≥130-ms difference in septal versus posterior wall peak strain when combined with a favorable left ventricular lead position was strongly predictive of immediate improvement in stroke volume with resynchronization therapy (95% sensitivity, 88% specificity), regardless of electrocardiographic QRS duration.
Murine monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody as a surrogate antigen for human Her-2/neu.

The anti-idiotypic (Id) monoclonal antibody (MAb) 520C9-6b (IgG1k), raised in syngenic mice against the murine anti-Her2/neu MAb 520C9 (Ab1), functionally mimics a human Her2/neu epitope and serves as a surrogate for the protein antigen. Immunization of allogeneic C57BL/6 mice and rabbits with 520C9-6b (Ab2) induced anti-Her2/neu-specific antibodies that react with antigen-positive SKBr3 cells by ELISA and FACS analysis. The immune sera inhibited binding between Ab1 and Ab2 and vice versa (binding of Ab2 to Ab1), indicating that it was a true anti-anti-Id (Ab3) antibody. The Ab3 sera or purified Ab3 specifically lysed Her2/neu-positive SKBr3 cells, but no significant lysis was observed in antigen-negative LS174T cells in an antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity assay. An Id-specific cellular immune response was also demonstrated in an in vitro lymphocyte proliferation assay. Furthermore, a panel of tumor tissues and tumor cells was screened for the presence of the Her2/neu epitope by its reactivity with Ab1 and Ab3 using immunohistochemistry and FACS analysis. Identical results were obtained using either Ab1 or Ab3 (Ab1'). The data indicated that anti-Id 520C9-6b can induce Her2/neu-specific antibody in experimental animals and may serve as a potential network antigen for the treatment of patients bearing Her2/neu-positive tumors.
Effect of Habitat Characteristics and Perturbation from Insecticides on the Community Dynamics of Ground Beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) on Mixed-Grass Rangeland

A study was conducted in 1986 and 1987 to determine the relationships between habitat characteristics and perturbation from insecticides on population and community dynamics of ground beetles collected with pitfall traps at 29 mixed-grass rangeland plots in northwestern South Dakota. Detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) and correlation analysis were used to define ecological gradients underlying changes in community structure of ground beetles. Results indicated that spatial changes in ground beetle communities occurred along gradients of percentage of clay, sand, and silt in soils and coverage of bare ground but were not related to vegetation. Twenty of the plots, located in two 1,400-ha blocks, were treated aerially with malathion liquid spray or carbaryl–bran bait in early July 1986. Pitfall trap catches of the dominant species declined significantly in one or both treatment blocks. However, catches rebounded to or above pretreatment levels a year after treatments. Results from DCA and multiple regression analysis of communities sampled in both years indicated that specific habitat characteristics were associated with immediate changes in community structure after perturbation; communities in habitats with high coverage of Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm., low coverage of Bouteloua gracilis (H.B.K.) Lag. ex Steud., and low clay soils were more resistant to change. Community malleability, or the tendency of communities to return to their predisturbed state, was not affected by treatment and was greater in habitats with high coverage of B. dactyloides and sedges and low coverage of B. gracilis and forbs. These variables are undoubtedly associated with other habitat characteristics as well.
Percutaneous biopsy of pediatric solid tumors.

BACKGROUND The objective of the current study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of percutaneous biopsy of pediatric solid tumors, a procedure that is less invasive than open biopsy. METHODS The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical data related to 202 percutaneous core-needle biopsies of solid tumors at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital over 5.5 years (from 1997 to 2003). In 103 patients, the procedure was performed to establish an initial diagnosis of a suspected malignancy; and, in 99 patients, disease recurrence was suspected. Biopsies were guided by ultrasound, computed tomography, or fluoroscopic imaging. From each tumor, 1–17 core biopsy samples (median, 6 samples) were obtained; the median needle size was 15 gauge (range, 13–20 gauge). The specimens were submitted for histopathologic analysis and other ancillary procedures (molecular pathology and/or cytogenetic analyses). The accuracy of the diagnoses from the biopsies was determined by subsequent surgery with or without pathologic assessment or by outcome. RESULTS When the biopsy samples were assessed for the presence of malignancy, there were 121 true-positive results (90% sensitivity), 67 true-negative results (100% specificity), and 14 false-negative results (93% accuracy). In 103 tumors, when the procedure was performed for initial diagnosis, percutaneous needle biopsy showed a sensitivity of 97%, a specificity of 100%, and an accuracy of 98%. The 99 procedures for suspected recurrence were less reliable (sensitivity, 83%; specificity, 100%; accuracy, 88%). CONCLUSIONS Image-guided percutaneous biopsy was highly accurate and safe in the diagnosis of pediatric malignant solid tumors. This technique may be able to supplant diagnostic open biopsy. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Study of a carbon dioxide ring laser gyroscope

We have experimentally investigated a basic ring laser gyroscope (RLG) with carbon dioxide gain, and studied the prospects of developing a practical CO2 RLG. Rotation sensing was demonstrated on a number of transitions in the 9.4 μm and 10.4 μm vibration-rotation bands. Gyro response is discussed with regard to lock-in, bias, homogeneous broadening effects, and high power operation. We show that such a system may offer important advantages over standard helium-neon RLGs, including reduced quantum limit and backscattering. The prospects and possible approaches for developing a practical high power CO2 RLG are discussed, and a method of eliminating cross-saturation at high pressure is proposed and analyzed.
Molecular Characterization of Human Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells

Introduction Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) represent a unique and important immune cell population capable of producing large quantifies of type I interferon (IFN) in response to viruses as well as nucleic acid-containing complexes from the host. These rare and mysterious cells have been revealed by in-depth molecular characterization. Several innate sensors and signaling molecules enriched in pDCs allow their specialized innate immune functions. In addition, human pDCs use a group of surface receptors that, through activation of a B-cell receptor (BCR)-like signaling pathway, modulate type I IFN responses. It is clear now that pDC development is influenced by distinctive transcription factors that specify a unique lineage. CD4+CD56+ hematodermic neoplasm of human pDC origin has been revealed in explicit molecular terms.
Attention Problems and Academic Achievement: Do Persistent and Earlier-Emerging Problems Have More Adverse Long-Term Effects?

Objective: This study examined whether the negative association between children’s attention difficulties and their academic functioning is largely confined to children whose attention problems per...
The multiple personalities of Watson and Crick strands

Background In genetics it is customary to refer to double-stranded DNA as containing a "Watson strand" and a "Crick strand." However, there seems to be no consensus in the literature on the exact meaning of these two terms, and the many usages contradict one another as well as the original definition. Here, we review the history of the terminology and suggest retaining a single sense that is currently the most useful and consistent.
Flip-chip approach to endfire coupling between single-mode optical fibres and channel waveguides

We report a practical approach to the positioning of a number of single-mode fibres for endfire coupling to channel waveguides. Boivin's approach has been extended to a flip-chip configuration which permits its use with substrates other than silicon.
Understanding the Counterintuitive Phenomenon of Catch Bonds

Cells bind to each other and to surfaces using complementary receptor-ligand pairs as an essential part of their function. The mechanical forces that build up on these bonds was assumed to weaken them until three receptor-ligand complexes were shown to form catch bonds that are instead strengthened by mechanical force. This review analyzes the experimental data for these complexes to better understand this counterintuitive effect. Models of how force affects the energy landscapes of bonds are related to the behavior of various catch bonds when subjected to force. Structural explanations of how force affects molecular structure and function are also presented and related to simulations of the effect of force on structure and to the effect of point mutations on bond function. It can be concluded that catch bonds arise when force changes the angle or distance between two domains in a way that leads to enhanced binding. However, their mechanism through which the interdomain region can influence the lifetime of the distant binding site remains unsolved since more than one proposed mechanism can explain the data. It remains possible that different catch bonds work differently or even that multiple mechanism act in the same protein.
Skin repellents against Aedes aegypti.

Twenty candidate repellents that were promising in screening tests were evaluated as solutions in ethanol on skin against caged Aedes aegypti (L.) by comparing the time of the protection obtained with that obtained with the standard, deet. All but 1 compound were tested as 50% solutions; deet and N,N -diethyl-2,5-dimethylbenzamide were tested as 25% solutions. None of the candidate repellents were more effective than deet, but dibutyl-2-hexyl-I,3-dioxolane-4,5-dicarboxylate and N,N,3,5 -tetramethylbenzamide as 50% solutions were about as effective as deet as a 25% solution. The protection obtained with N,N -diethyl-2,5-dimethylbenzamide as a 25% solution was about ½ that obtained with deet. The other 17 compounds as 50% solutions were from 0.08 to 0.70 times as effective as the 25% solution of deet.
Preparation of an exopeptidase-enriched fraction from the hepatopancreas of decapods

Abstract A laboratory-scale process suitable for the large-scale recovery of exopeptidases from the hepatopancreas tissue of decapod viscera is described. A method for distinguishing the relative exopeptidase and endopeptidase activities of digestive proteases was developed and used to monitor the enrichment of exopeptidases in an endo- and exopeptidase mixture. Simple extracts of the digestive tissues from decapods were a rich source of proteolytic activity; however, they contain a relatively high ratio of endopeptidase to exopeptidase activity. Based on the finding that most of the endopeptidase activity of extracts was inhibited by serine proteinase inhibitors, the relative exopeptidase activity of crayfish and langostilla crab digestive proteases was enriched by Agarose-SBTI affinity chromatography.
Characterizations of ZnSe single crystals grown by physical vapor transport

ZnSe bulk crystals were grown by self-seeded physical vapor transport technique in horizontal and vertical configurations. The impurities and defects in the grown crystals were studied by glow discharge mass spectroscopy (GDMS) and low temperature photoluminescence (PL) measurements. The PL results on the starting material and the grown crystals are consistent with the low impurity levels measured by GDMS. The crystalline quality of the grown crystals were examined by synchrotron white beam X-ray topography (SWBXT) and high resolution triple X-ray diffraction (HRTXD). The SWBXT shows that, aside from twins, the overall crystalline quality of the vapor grown ZnSe crystals, especially in the contactless grown region, was quite high. The HRTXD results are in line with the SWBXT findings. The comparison between the HRTXD on a chemical-mechanically polished and a cleaved surface seems to indicate that polishing damage can obscure the true microstructure in the as-grown ZnSe crystals.
Circadian rhythms in the urinary excretion of cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP) and cyclic 3',5'-guanosine monophosphate (cyclic GMP) in human subjects.

Significant circadian rhythms in urinary excretion of cyclic AMP, cyclic GMP, creatinine, 17-hydroxycorticosteroids and inorganic phosphorus were demonstrated in three normal subjects (two males and one post-menopausal female) who collected serial 4-h specimens for periods of 33, 22, and 14 days, respectively. Peak excretion of the above substances occurred, respectively, at approximately 1500–1700, 2300–0200, 1700–1800, 1100–1300, and 1800–2200 h. The estimated amplitudes of the rhythms expressed as a percentage of the mean 4-h excretion rate were 12–13%, 9–31%, 9–15%, 30– 78% and 22–26%, respectively. With the possible exception of cyclic GMP, all of the observed rhythms appeared to be sinusoidal, with normal periods of 24 h. The rhythms in both cyclic AMP and creatinine excretion, but not in the remaining substances may be explained largely in terms of the known rhythm in glomerular filtration rate. The factors responsible for the rhythm in cyclic GMP excretion are unknown.
The effects of an integrative supply chain strategy on customer service and financial performance: an analysis of direct versus indirect relationships

Abstract This study examines the performance implications of an integrated supply chain strategy, with customer service performance followed by financial performance as performance constructs. Two major components of an integrated supply chain strategy are identified and defined: (1) integrative information technologies, which is modeled antecedent to (2) supply chain integration. The research model was tested using data from a sample (n=57) of the top 150 independent first tier automotive suppliers to the Big 3 in North America. The results showed positive direct relationships between (1) integrated information technologies and supply chain integration, (2) supply chain integration and customer service, and (3) customer service and firm performance. The relationship of supply chain integration to financial performance was indirect, through customer service; i.e., customer service was found to fully (as opposed to partially) mediate the relationship between supply chain integration and firm performance for first tier suppliers in the automotive industry.
Electrostatic field effects on a rotating liquid film conical radiator

We present a study of the interaction of an electrostatic field with a thin liquid film with a free surface flowing down the inner wall of a rotating conical radiator due to centrifugal force. First, we examine the effect of the electric field on the stability of the film flow. Next, several limits of the equations of motion are investigated analytically, and then compared with an explicit numerical calculation of the equations of motion. Also, we discuss applications of these calculations to a proposed electrostatic liquid film space radiator.
THE CONTROLLED THERMAL DECOMPOSITION OF CELLULOSE NITRATE. VII. CARBONYL COMPOUNDS.

Abstract : An investigation of the carbonyl compounds formed from the ignition of cellulose nitrate was made. Isolated as the 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine derivatives were acetone, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, methylglyoxal, glyoxal, mesoxaldehyde and hydroxypyruvaldehyde. A gas chromatographic study of the cellulose nitrate (cast from ethyl acetate) ignition products demonstrated the presence therein of acetaldehyde, acetone, acrolein, ethyl acetate, hydrogen cyanide and a now, unidentified substance which is not a carbonyl compound. Ethanol is not a product of ignition of cellulose nitrate. The origin of the compoundss isolated is discussed. (Author)
Temperature dependence of dielectric relaxations in α-elastin coacervate: Evidence for a peptide librational mode

Abstract The dielectric permittivity of α-elastin coacervate is reported over the frequency range of 1 MHz to 1000 MHz and the temperature dependence from 6.8°C to 70°C is also reported. A temperature-dependent simple Debye-type relaxation is observed with a correlation time of 8 nsec (40°C) which is similar to that of the polypentapeptide of elastin (i.e. 7 nsec at 40°C) where the band has been assigned to a peptide librational mode. By analogy this allows for the first assignment of a peptide librational mode in a naturally occurring polypeptide or protein. The strong spectrally localized band indicates a regularity of structure. The low temperature dependence of the correlation time, giving a 1.7 kcal/mole enthalpy of activation, is consistent with torsional motions associated with a peptide librational mode.
Infrared spectroscopic investigation of hydroxyl in β-(Mg,Fe) 2 SiO 4 and coexisting olivine: Implications for mantle evolution and dynamics

Wadsleyite (β-(Mg,Fe)2SiO4) is a major constituent of the Earth's transition zone and is known to accommodate OH. The portion of the transition zone between 400–550 km could be an important source or sink for hydroxyl in plumes and slabs intersecting this region. Micro-infrared spectroscopy has been carried out on the β-phase and coexisting metastable olivine synthesized in a multianvil apparatus at 14 GPa and 1550–1650 K under hydrous conditions. Single-crystal and polycrystal specimens of both phases were analyzed in the 1800–8500 cm−1 frequency region to determine the speciation, abundances, and partitioning behavior of the hydrous components in coexisting β-phase and olivine. β-phase spectra consistently show three distinct OH bands at 3329, 3580, and 3615 cm−1. OH concentrations range from 10000–65000 H/106 Si. A strong positive correlation of grain size and extent of transformation with OH concentration in the β-phase indicates that grain-growth and transformation rates are enhanced in a hydrous environment. Olivine spectra are variable, but consistently show a prominent broad-band absorbance representing molecular H2O, consistent with the infrared signature of the starting material. OH concentrations in olivine range from <300–1400 H/106 Si. The highest OH concentrations measured for olivine and the β-phase may represent solubility limits, in which case the OH solubility ratio between these two phases is approximately 1∶40. Where both phases coexist and are undersaturated with OH, the partitioning ratio of OH between them is about 1∶100. The large solubility contrast between olivine and the β-phase suggests a mechanism for hydrating the transition zone via olivine carried down in subducting slabs. Plumes impinging on an OH-rich upper transition region could cause H2 or H2O to be released upon transformation of the β-phase to olivine, resulting in initiation of secondary upwellings. If dissolution of OH weakens the β-phase, and if OH is present in the mantle, the region between 400–550 km could be a zone of low viscosity.
Necrosis of Myometrial Choriocarcinoma with Fulminating Sepsis Complicating Chemotherapy for Trophoblastic Tumor

We report a patient who developed metastatic gestational choriocarcinoma following delivery of a normal, healthy child that, however, was anemic and required blood transfusion. The patient developed secondary postpartum hemorrhage over a period of several weeks and required curettage and myometrial contractants to control the bleeding. At the time of diagnosis the patient had extensive pulmonary metastases and ultrasound showed full penetration of the myometrium by tumor. Immediately following the second course of chemotherapy with etoposide, methotrexate, and actinomycin D, alternating with cyclophosphamide and vincristine, the patient developed sepsis associated with a uteroperitoneal fistula and required hysterectomy. The sepsis was associated with disseminated intravascular coagulopathy and adult respiratory distress syndrome. However, the patient's tumor was exquisitely sensitive to chemotherapy and with good intensive care unit support and chemotherapy she survived without residual scar except for the loss of reproductive function. There are two lessons to be learned from these events: (1) The syndrome of secondary postpartum hemorrhage with a fetus that is anemic spells a diagnosis of choriocarcinoma; and (2) color Doppler flow vaginal ultrasound performed at the time of presentation of trophoblastic tumors may be useful to show full penetration of the myometrium by tumor which may be a warning of possible scar rupture in a subsequent pregnancy.
Leptospira interrogans SEROTYPES Ballum AND Grippotyphosa ISOLATED FROM THE MUSKRAT

Leptospira interrogans serotypes ballum and grippotyphosa were isolated from muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) taken in central Illinois. This represents the first reported isolation of ballum and the first United States record of grippotyphosa from this species.