cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Melt‐blowing thermoplastic polyurethane and polyether‐block‐amide elastomers: Effect of processing conditions and crystallization on web properties

Melt-blown webs from ester and ether thermoplastic polyurethanes and polyether-block-amide (PEBA) elastomers were produced at different die-to-collector distances (DCD) to study the correlation between the polymer type and hardness, melt-blowing process conditions, and web properties. An experimental set up was built to measure the air temperature and velocity profiles below and across the melt-blowing die to correlate the fiber formation process and polymer crystallization behavior to process conditions and web properties. It was shown that air temperature and velocity profiles follow similar trends with increasing distance below the melt-blowing die: both drop rapidly until reaching a plateau region approximately 5–6 cm below the die. Thereafter, they remain relatively constant with further increasing distance. It was found that crystallization onset and peak temperatures of all block copolymers in this study fall within this region of rapid velocity and temperature drop. This suggests that the polymers have already started to crystallize and solidify before reaching the collector, the extent of which depends on the crystallization kinetics of the polymer. The strong influence of the crystallization kinetics on web strength was clearly demonstrated in the PEBA series. In particular, the hardest grade produced the lowest web strength mainly because of its high crystallization rate and crystallization onset temperature. It is concluded that the melt-blown web strength is strongly dependent on the degree of fiber-to-fiber adhesion within the web, which is determined by the amount of fiber solidification that occurs prior to the collector. The crystallization kinetics of the polymer and the distances traveled between the die and collector or the exposure time of the polymer melt to process and ambient air were shown to be critical in the amount of fiber solidification attained. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
NSF workshop on task-based information search systems

This workshop gathered leading researchers in information retrieval, human-computer interaction and information behavior to discuss challenges and opportunities associated with the development of systems and tools to support people involved with complex, multi-search and multi-session search tasks. Such task-based search systems present many challenges and the goal of this workshop was to enumerate, discuss, and document these challenges into a research agenda to guide future research. This article includes a description of the motivations and goals of the workshop and syntheses of major workshop activities including pre- workshop identification of challenges by each participant and discussion breakout groups. Major themes of the workshop included the development of domain-neutral modeling techniques to represent tasks, task properties and task-related search behaviors, interface support tools to assist with a variety of task-related information behaviors and the identification of techniques and tools to evaluate task-based search systems. The most critical need identified was the development of task models; this was viewed as essential for addressing the challenges of tools and evaluation measures.
c-Fos proto-oncogene activity induced by mating in the preoptic area, hypothalamus and amygdala in the female rat: role of afferent input via the pelvic nerve

In order to identify brain areas which receive afferent genitosensory input important for mating-induced prolactin release, we compared numbers of Fos-immunoreactive (Fos-IR) cells in brains of intact estrous females 1 h after differential mating stimulation. Numbers of Fos-IR cells were approximately 3-fold higher in the preoptic area (POA), medial amygdala (mAMYG) and bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) when females received intromissions (I) from males than when they received mounts-without-intromission (M) or were taken directly from their home cage. In the ventrolateral portion of the ventromedial nucleus (VL-VMN), the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus and the midbrain central tegmental field (CTF) numbers of Fos-IR cells were significantly higher than home cage levels in groups of females exposed to males regardless of type of mating stimulation received. Bilateral transection of the pelvic nerve eliminated the increases in Fos-IR in POA and mAMYG which occurred in sham-transected females in these areas after intromissions from males. These data demonstrate that afferent input via the pelvic nerve activates cell groups within the POA, mAMYG and BNST and suggests that these areas may be involved in initiation of mating-induced prolactin surges.
Constant Scallop-height Machining of Free-form Surfaces

A novel approach for the NC tool-path generation of free-form surfaces is presented. Traditionally, the distance between adjacent tool-paths in either the Euclidean space or in the parametric space is kept constant. Instead, in this work, the scallop-height is kept constant. This leads to a significant reduction in the size of the CL (cutter location) data accompanied by a reduction in the machining time. This work focuses on the zig-zag (meander) finishing using a ball-end milling cutter.
Ge(Li)-Ge(Li) coincidence measurements in 132Xe

Gamma-- gamma coincidence measurements were carried out on the decay of / sup 132/I with two Ge(Li) detectors and a two-parameter system. Several new transitions were observed. From these results, 18 new levels at 2167.3, 2187.4, 2303.6, 2916.9, 2935.6, /sup 132/Xe level scheme which incorporates 113 of the 119 definitely established gamma rays in this decay and can incorporate 5 of 16 additional tentatively reported transitions. (FR)
Microglia in the developing brain: A potential target with lifetime effects

Microglia are a heterogenous group of monocyte-derived cells serving multiple roles within the brain, many of which are associated with immune and macrophage like properties. These cells are known to serve a critical role during brain injury and to maintain homeostasis; yet, their defined roles during development have yet to be elucidated. Microglial actions appear to influence events associated with neuronal proliferation and differentiation during development, as well as, contribute to processes associated with the removal of dying neurons or cellular debris and management of synaptic connections. These long-lived cells display changes during injury and with aging that are critical to the maintenance of the neuronal environment over the lifespan of the organism. These processes may be altered by changes in the colonization of the brain or by inflammatory events during development. This review addresses the role of microglia during brain development, both structurally and functionally, as well as the inherent vulnerability of the developing nervous system. A framework is presented considering microglia as a critical nervous system-specific cell that can influence multiple aspects of brain development (e.g., vascularization, synaptogenesis, and myelination) and have a long term impact on the functional vulnerability of the nervous system to a subsequent insult, whether environmental, physical, age-related, or disease-related.
Fast and simple sample introduction for capillary electrophoresis microsystems

A newly designed capillary electrophoresis (CE) microchip with a simple and efficient sample introduction interface is described. The sample introduction is carried out directly on the separation channel through a sharp inlet tip placed in the sample vial, without an injection cross, complex microchannel layouts or hardware modification. Alternate placement of the inlet tip in vials containing the sample and buffer solutions permits a volume defined electrokinetic sample introduction. Such fast and simple sample introduction leads to highly reproducible signals with no observable carry over between different analyte concentrations. The performance of the system was demonstrated in flow-injection and CE measurements of nitroaromatic explosives and for on-chip enzymatic assays of glucose in the presence of ascorbic acid. Employing an 8 cm long separation channel and a separation voltage of 4000 V it offers high-throughput flow-injection assays of 100 samples h−1 with a relative standard deviation of 3.7% for TNT (n = 100). Factors influencing the analytical performance of the new microchip have been characterized and optimized. Such ability to continuously introduce discrete samples into micrometer channels indicates great promise for high-speed microchip analysis.
Develop better motor skill progressions with Gentile's taxonomy of tasks

(1999). Develop Better Motor Skill Progressions with Gentile's Taxonomy of Tasks. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 70, No. 8, pp. 35-38.
Thermophilic protein structure adaptation examined with Burial Depth and Travel Depth

Organisms evolved at extreme temperatures (above 80° C) have constraints on their protein structures. These constraints result in differences in residue utilization and overall structure. By studying thermophile/mesophile pairs of homologous structures, we have examined these differences.Geometric measures, specifically Burial Depth (distance from the molecular surface to each atom) and Travel Depth (distance from the convex hull to the molecular surface that avoids the protein interior), along with common metrics like packing are used to gain insight into the constraints experienced by thermophiles.Our results show that extreme thermophiles show significant trends towards becoming more “ball-like”. Their mean Travel Depth is less than their mesophilic counterparts, indicating smaller, less numerous and less deep pockets. Their mean Burial Depth is higher indicating that they bury more surface area and are more compact. This can be tracked on the individual residue level, for instance Alanine becomes more significantly buried under thermophilic conditions, and charged residues become less buried.Shown is an example pair with the thermophile at top. At left are Travel Depth surfaces, at right Burial Depth. Note the fewer, smaller pockets and the deeper core in the thermophile.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
Lack of IRS-1 codon 513 and 972 polymorphism in Pima Indians

Insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1), an endogenous substrate for the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase, mediates many or all of the metabolic actions of insulin. Recently, polymorphism at codons 513 and 972 of the IRS-1 gene resulting in 2 amino acid substitutions that were associated with type II diabetes were found in a Caucasian population. Using allele specific oligonucleotide (ASO) hybridization, we screened 242 diabetic and 190 nondiabetic Pima Indians, a population with a very high prevalence of type II diabetes. Neither of the two mutations was present in either diabetic or nondiabetic subjects. We conclude that polymorphism at codons 513 and 972 of the IRS-1 gene observed in certain Caucasian populations is very rare or absent in Pima Indians.
Comparative study of airway management techniques with restricted access to patient airway.

Objective. To determine which airway endotracheal tube (ET), Combitube (CT), or Laryngeal Mask Airway (LMA) has the shortest time to successful ventilation in three nontraditional prehospital airway scenarios. Methods. Prospective randomized cohort study of emergency medicine (EM) residents, faculty EM physicians, andparamedics (EMT-P). Subjects were instructed to place an airway in a mannequin in three scenarios: mannequin supine under a table with head abutting a wall, mannequin sitting upright with access from behind, andmannequin lying on its side with access facing the mannequin. The number of airway placement attempts andtime to successful ventilation were recorded. Results. Twenty-five resident physicians, 9 faculty physicians, and22 EMT-Ps participated. No significant difference was found between the different airways in the number of attempts to successfully ventilate. EMT-Ps demonstrated significantly faster times to successful ventilation for all scenarios versus physicians (e.g., supine scenar...
Analysis of prognostic factors in Ewing sarcoma using a population-based cancer registry.

BACKGROUND: Ewing sarcoma is a high-grade malignancy that most often occurs in children. Because its occurrence in adults has been historically low, few studies have been published on the epidemiology of Ewing sarcoma in this group of patients. By using data from a large, population-based cancer registry, the authors designed the present study to examine the outcome of children and adult patients with Ewing sarcoma and relevant prognostic factors. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of Ewing sarcoma patient cases in the California Cancer Registry database was performed to identify incident patient cases diagnosed between 1989-2007. Comparisons were made to examine differences in demographics, disease characteristics, treatment, and survival. Survival analyses were performed using Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank tests and Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS: Seven hundred and twenty-five incident patient cases of Ewing sarcoma were identified, including 372 (51.3%) children and 353 (48.7%) adults. Hispanic race was associated with young age (P = .001) and lower socioeconomic status (SES; P = .0001). Pelvic involvement was associated with large tumor size (>8 cm; P < .0001), an increased incidence of metastasis (P < .0002), and poorer survival (P < .0001). After adjusting for clinically relevant factors, statistically significant decreased overall survival was seen with adults (hazard ratio [HR], 1.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.35-2.17), Hispanics (HR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.01-1.75), metastatic disease (HR, 2.74; 95% CI, 2.14-3.49), large tumor size (HR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.17-2.34), no surgical treatment, and low SES. CONCLUSIONS: The authors determined that adult age, Hispanic race, metastatic disease, large tumor size, and low SES are poor prognostic factors for overall survival among Ewing sarcoma patient cases. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Abstract IA21: Panel Discussion: Survivorship Issues

This one-of-a-kind discussion panel with a mix of both scientists and survivors, will help to bridge the gap between researchers and patients. The main goal is for scientists to appreciate issues of important priority to patients and understand where the ultimate fruits of their labors reside. Scientists will gain a better understanding of the complex issues surrounding first in human studies and the balance of efficacy and toxicity that face patients and doctors on a daily basis. Survivors and clinicians will appreciate the complex environment of drug development in the laboratory and how to take a lead compound through to clinical testing from a human trials perspective. We will discuss issues faced when trying to overcome barriers in improving ovarian cancer outcome and survival. Financial aspects of clinical trials and correlative science continually plague decision-making processes. In addition, how scientists can help advocates in bringing effective drugs into market even when the market share may be small. Scientists will have the opportunity to hear patient stories of diagnosis and treatment as well as specific survivorship issues and healthcare needs of survivors. The balance between efficacy and quality of life will also be discussed. Citation Format: Douglas A. Levine. Panel Discussion: Survivorship Issues. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Ovarian Cancer Research: From Concept to Clinic; Sep 18-21, 2013; Miami, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2013;19(19 Suppl):Abstract nr IA21.
Role of prostanoids in experimental duodenal ulcer in rat.

The purposes of this study were to determine whether inhibition of cyclooxygenase is a mechanism by which cysteamine and mepirizole produce duodenal ulcers, identify qualitative or quantitative differences in prostanoid production between gastric mucosa and duodenum, and determine whether differences in cyclooxygenase sensitivity to inhibition by aspirin exist between these two tissues. In fed female rats, gastric mucosal prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and prostacyclin (PGI2) generation was 235±25 and 832±40 ng/g/min, respectively, whereas full-thickness duodenal PGE2 and PGI2 generation was 665±46 and 662±49 ng/g/min, respectively. Over an intraperitoneal dose range of 0– 25 mg/kg, aspirin-induced cyclooxygenase inhibition was dose-dependent and similar for the two tissues. Duodenal ulceration (16.7 mm2) produced by cysteamine, 425 mg/kg, was associated with a 46% reduction in duodenal PGE2 generation, while having no effect on PGI2 generation; however, cysteamine, 213 mg/kg, produced no visible duodenal mucosa injury yet reduced duodenal PGE2 generation 39% compared to control values. In fed male rats, gastric mucosal PGE2 and PGI2 generation was 179± 18 and 813± 61 ng/g/min, respectivley, whereas duodenal PGE2 and PGI2 generation was 321± 27 and 454± 38 ng/g/min, respectively. Duodenal ulceration (7.7 ± 2.3 mm2) produced by oral mepirizole was associated with a 63% reduction in duodenal PGE2 generation compared to control values, while having no effect on PGI2 generation. Subcutaneous aspirin, 100 mg/kg, which reduced duodenal PGE2 generation to a greater degree than either ulcerogen, given in conjunction with pentagastrin, did not produce visible duodenal ulceration. It therefore seems unlikely that reduced PGE2 generation within the duodenum is the primary mechanism of gross injury associated with these two ulcerogens.
Dephosphorylation of psilocybin in the intact mouse.

The administration of psilocybin (4-phosphoryl-N,N-dimethyltryptamine) to mice resulted in the accumulation of its 4-hydroxy analog, psilocin, in the kidney, liver, and brain. Highest concentrations in kidney and liver were found within 10–20 minutes and brain levels reached a peak at 25–30 minutes after administration of psilocybin. Behavioral effects, characterized by piloerection, exophthalmos, and motor incoordination, closely followed the increase in brain levels of psilocin. In mice pretreated with large doses of sodium β-glycerophosphate, a substrate of alkaline phosphatase, the administration of psilocybin resulted in much lower increases in tissue psilocin levels as compared to controls, and the behavioral effects were correspondingly attenuated. The accumulation of tissue psilocin after administration of psilocin did not differ significantly in control or β-glycerophosphate-pretreated mice. Correspondingly, no difference in the intensity of the behavioral effects could be observed in control and glycerophosphate-pretreated mice. The results of this study demonstrate the rapid dephosphorylation of psilocybin by the intact mouse. Evidence is also presented that the central nervous system effects of psilocybin are exerted only after its transformation to the 4-hydroxy analog, psilocin.
Studies on the function of vitamin A in mucopolysaccharide biosynthesis.

An in vitro system of rat colon segments and of rat colon homogenates was elaborated, which incorporated [35S]sulfate and [14C]glucose into mucopolysaccharide. Mucopolysaccharide was identified by paper chromatography and paper electrophoresis along with chondroitin sulfate carrier; by co-precipitation and dialysis with chondroitin sulfate; by hydrolysis and identification of labeled sulfate or labeled glucosamine. The homogenate system required adenosine triphosphate, diphosphopyridine nucleotide, glucose and glutamine. The level of incorporation was lowered to about one-half in colon segments and homogenates from vitamin A-deficient rats. Vitamin A, vitamin A-aldehyde and vitamin A-acid (but no other fat-soluble vitamin tested) restored incorporation to normal. With graded levels of vitamin A added, a maximum of incorporation was reached to 10 μg/6 mg of protein in the homogenates. Using glucosamine or galactosamine instead of glucose and glutamine, or uridine diphosphate acetylglucosamine, uridine diphosphate glucuronic acid, uridine diphosphate glucose and acetylglucosamine, incorporation of labeled sulfate was still dependent on vitamin A. This fact shows that the vitamin may be required either in the polymerisation reaction of the uridine derivatives, or the activation or transfer of sulfate. It was shown that the vitamin A-destroying enzyme lipoxidase can lower or abolish incorporation into mucopolysaccharide.
Inhomogeneous broadening in excitonic systems

Abstract The effect of a random distribution of single-center transition frequencies on the spectrum of a system whose optically active states are Frenkel excitons is addressed from a theoretical perspective. In the weak disorder limit (distribution width/exciton bandwidth ⪡1), the lineshape is adequately described by a theory based on the coherent potential approximation (CPA) in all three dimensions. The theory is shown to account quantitatively for recent numerical results for the linewidth in one dimensional arrays reported by Kohler et al. In the strong disorder limit (distribution width/exciton bandwidth ⪢1), a theory is outlined in which the inter-center coupling is treated as a perturbation. The resulting lineshape has a Voigt profile. The need for a theory interpolating between the weak disorder and strong disorder limits is pointed out.
The electrodynamics of the low-latitude ionosphere: Recent results and future challenges

Abstract Over the last few years, experimental and numerical modeling studies have provided extensive new information on the electrodynamics of the low-latitude ionosphere. Ground-based studies have determined the average seasonal, solar cycle and magnetic effects on the equatorial and low-latitude plasma drifts and thermospheric neutral winds, and their control over the F-region plasma density distribution. Satellite observations have been used, for the first time, to determine the latitudinal and longitudinal dependence of the F-region plasma drifts, and coordinated ground-based measurements have examined the global response of the low-latitude ionosphere to different high latitude forcing conditions. Recent studies have examined the coupling between storm-time thermospheric neutral winds and plasma drifts, and have determined the low-latitude signatures of magnetospheric and ionospheric dynamo electric fields. In this review, we initially examine the present understanding of low-latitude F-region electrodynamics focusing on the large-scale distribution of the ionospheric electric fields and their response to magnetospheric disturbances. We also discuss future initiatives necessary for a more complete understanding of these low-latitude transport processes.
Prediction of High Frequency Sonic Boom Noise Transmission Into Buildings Using a Hybrid Analytical-Ray Tracing Approach

As part of the effort to renew commercial supersonic flight, a predictive numerical tool to compute sonic boom transmission into buildings is under development. Due to the computational limitations of typical numerical methods used at low frequencies (e.g. Finite Element Method), it is necessary to develop a separate approach for the calculation of acoustic transmission and interior radiation at high frequencies. The high frequency approach can then later be combined with a low frequency method to obtain full frequency vibro-acoustic responses of buildings. An analytical method used for the computation of high frequency acoustic transmission through typical building partitions is presented in this paper. Each partition is taken in isolation and assumed to be infinite in dimension. Using the fact that a sonic boom generated far from the structure will approximate plane wave incidence, efficient analytical solutions for the vibration and acoustic radiation of different types of partitions are developed. This is linked to a commercial ray tracing code to compute the high frequency interior acoustic response and for auralization of transmitted sonic booms. Acoustic and vibration results of this high frequency tool are compared to experimental data for a few example cases demonstrating its efficiency and accuracy.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Role of the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor and [Ah] gene battery in the oxidative stress response, cell cycle control, and apoptosis

The chronology and history of characterizing the aromatic hydrocarbon [Ah] battery is reviewed. This battery represents the Ah receptor (AHR)-mediated control of at least six, and probably many more, dioxin-inducible genes; two cytochrome P450 genes-P450 1A1 and 1A2 (Cypla1, Cypla2-and four non-P450 genes, have experimentally been documented to be members of this battery. Metabolism of endogenous and exogenous substrates by perhaps every P450 enzyme, but certainly CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 (which are located, in part, in the mitochondrion), have been shown to cause reactive oxygenated metabolite (ROM)-mediated oxidative stress. Oxidative stress activates genes via the electrophile response element (EPRE) DNA motif, whereas dioxin (acutely) activates genes via the AHR-mediated aromatic hydrocarbon response element (AHRE) DNA motif. In contrast to dioxin, AHR ligands that are readily metabolized to ROMs (e.g. benzo[a]pyrene, beta-naphthoflavone) activate genes via both AHREs and the EPRE. The importance of the AHR in cell cycle regulation and apoptosis has just begun to be realized. Current evidence suggests that the CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 enzymes might control the level of the putative endogenous ligand of the AHR, but that CYPA1/1A2 metabolism generates ROM-mediated oxidative stress which can be ameliorated by the four non-P450 EPRE-driven genes in the [Ah] battery. Oxidative stress is a major signal in precipitating apoptosis; however, the precise mechanism, or molecule, which determines the cell's decision between apoptosis and continuation with the cell cycle, remains to be elucidated. The total action of AHR and the [Ah] battery genes therefore represents a pivotal upstream event in the apoptosis cascade, providing an intricate balance between promoting and preventing ROM-mediated oxidative stress. These proposed endogenous functions of the AHR and [Ah] enzymes are, of course, in addition to the frequently described functions of "metabolic potentiation" and "detoxification" of various foreign chemicals.
Life Tables of the Banded Sunflower Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in the Northern Great Plains

Life tables were compiled for two generations of the banded sunflower moth, Cochylis hospes Walsingham (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a univoltine pest of sunflower. Mortality of eggs and four instars in sunflower capitula was 8.9% for the 1986–1987 generation and 11.9% for the 1987%1988 generation. Orius tristicolor White (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) preyed upon eggs and some first instars desiccated beneath involucral bracts. Mortality of fifth instars and pupae overwintering in the soil was 98.5% for the 1986–1987 generation and 94.8% for the 1987–1988 generation. Ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) predation reduced populations of overwintering larvae and pupae by 39.6% in 1986–1987 and 44.0% in 1987–1988. Glypta prognatha Dasch (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) parasitism reduced populations by 8.0% in 1986–1987 and 18.2% in 1987–1988. Although approximately 50% of fifth instars were parasitized, most fifth instars were consumed by predators before parasitoids emerged.
Tooth marks and human consumption: ethnoarchaeological mastication research among foragers of the Central African Republic

Abstract Taphonomically, much research has focused on the way in which predators and humans vie for calorically rich sources of protein. Anecdotal evidence from ethnographies and experiments indicate that humans will—as do other obligate carnivores and omnivores—modify animal bones with their teeth during consumption. Recent ethnographic research among the Bofi foragers of the Central African Republic provides an opportunity to explicitly understand the way in which humans imprint bone during mastication. This research identifies the signature of human tooth marks on small mammal skeletons and addresses the way in which these marks may be archaeologically visible. The data presented herein suggests that any model seeking to discuss the range of human dietary choices would be strengthened by considering the impact of humans in zooarchaeological small fauna assemblages that may or may not have technological indicators of a human presence.
Gastrointestinal bleeding with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices.

Continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD) insertion is a life-saving procedure that is being increasingly used in patients with advanced heart failure. However, patients with CF-LVADs are at an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). Bleeding can occur anywhere in the GI tract with lesions being more prevalent in the upper GI tract than in the lower GI tract. The pathophysiology of GIB in patients with CF-LVADs is unique and likely involves three synergistic mechanisms—coagulopathy, acquired von Willebrand disease and continuous non-pulsatile blood flow. Management strategies vary depending on the presentation and site of bleeding. Prevention strategies to prevent GIB in these patients include low pump speed, close hemodynamic monitoring and a low threshold for endoscopy. We aim to review in detail the pathophysiology, management, complications and preventive strategies in patients with CF-LVAD who present with GIB.
Joint Cockpit Office: history and role in defense-wide issues regarding avionics displays

The charter of the Joint Cockpit Office (JCO) is to plan, coordinate and accelerate the transition of advanced development cockpit/crew station technologies critical to crew effectiveness in current and future air vehicles. The JCO helps assure a single, coordinated, and highly integrated cockpit/crew station Science and Technology (ST management of the Spatial Disorientation Countermeasures program, and facilitation of the actions determined by the DoD Executive Agent for Flat Panel Displays.
A sheet-current approach to coronal-interplanetary modeling

The most pertinent effect of the currents in the coronal-interplanetary space is their alteration of the magnetic topology to form configurations of open field lines. The important currents seem to be those in the neighborhoods of the interfaces between closed and open field lines or between oppositely directed open field lines in the coronal helmet-streamer structures. Thus, the coronal-interplanetary space may be regarded as being partitioned by current-sheets into several piecewise current-free regions. These current sheets overlie the photospheric neutral lines, where the vertical component of the magnetic field reverses its polarity on the solar surface. But, their locations and strengths are determined by force balance between the magnetic field and the gas pressure in the coronal-interplanetary space. Since the pressure depends on the flow velocity of the solar wind and the solar wind channels along magnetic flux tubes, there is a strong magnetohydrodynamic coupling between the magnetic field and the solar wind. The sheetcurrent approach presented in this paper seems to be a reasonable way to account for this complicated interaction.
Status of the Yuma desalting plant

Abstract The Colorado River is the main source of water for the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Because of increasing consumptive use of the water and increasing return of saline irrigation drainage to the river, the river salinity has steadily increased. The effects are particularly evident at the lower end of the river and consequently in Mexico. The United States has agreed to provide Mexico with water of a salinity of no more than 115p/m greater than the salinity of water arriving at Imperial Dam. Imperial Dam is the last United States irrigation diversion structure on the Colorado River. The United States plans on building a 4.21-m3/s membrane desalting plant to solve the salinity problem. The plant will be located 7.4 km west of Yuma, Arizona. The current status of the plant can be summarized as follows: The site location has been identified and the land has been purchased; membrane desalting equipment proposals have been received and selection of contractors has been made; specifications for peripheral support equipment such as clarifiers, filters, tanks, recalcining furnaces, and centrifuges will be forthcoming and requests for bidding on these items made; the by-pass drain to the Santa Clara Slough has been completed; the sludge disposal site has been located and methods of sludge disposal determined; and finally, the power source has been identified and power contracts are being prepared. The progress on the plant has been slowed by legal questions concerning the procurement of desalting equipment. A decision by the General Accounting Office on this matter is expected shortly.
Studies of III-Nitride Superlattice Structures Implanted with Lanthanide Ions

Cathodoluminescence (CL) of rare earth (RE) ions implanted AlN/GaN superlattice (SL) structures grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique on GaN/(0001) sapphire substrate was measured at 10 K and 300 K. Implantation of terbium and thulium in SLs was done at 150 keV with a dose of up to 1×1015 cm-2 at 300 K. Samples were given post implantation isochronal thermal treatment at 900 °C in nitrogen ambient. The interface quality between the SL layers before and after implantation as well as after thermal annealing treatment has been investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The characteristic satellite peaks of the SLs were measured for the (0002) reflection in the symmetric Bragg geometry for the reference, RE-implanted, and annealed SLs. Furthermore, the luminescence intensity of a RE3+ ion doped AlN/GaN SL was compared with the one from RE-implanted GaN epilayers. Despite the structural damage of the AlN/GaN structures, an enhancement of the characteristic emission intensities from RE3+ ions in the SLs was observed compared to emission from RE ions in epilayers.
Cash is king: Cash management and risks

Turner, Paul S. and Diane B. Wunnicke, 2003, Managing the Risks of Payment Systems (New York: John Wiley & Sons). Reider, Rob and Peter B. Heyler, 2003, Managing Cash Flow: An Operational Focus. (New York: John Wiley & Sons).
Computer-enhanced mapping of activation sequences in the surgical treatment of supraventricular arrhythmias.

Surgical treatment of accessory pathways and ectopic foci requires accurate information on the physical locations of the arrhythmogenic substrates. AJthough electrophysiology studies during cardiac catheterization frequently provide accurate and reliable data, the physical locations of the sites to be ablated must be verified in situ by electrical activity mapping. We have developed a microcomputer-based system that facilitates creation of electrical activity maps, supplanting the manual method formerly used. Signals produced by mapping and reference electrodes, as well as cardiac diagrams with grid coordinates and times, are presented on a monitor in formats that are easily interpreted by the surgeon and cardiologist. The system is rapid, accurate, and reliable, and has reduced the time required to localize conduction abnormalities from 30 to 45 minutes for the manual method, down to an average of 12 minutes per case. The system is simple to operate, requiring only minimal training. All of the components of the system are commercially available; no specialized hardware is required.
Spinor groups and algebraic coding theory

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to explore the equivalence between the abelian subgroups of Ṽ(n), the “diagonal” extra-special 2-group of the compact, simple, simply-connected Lie group Spin(n), and the self-orthogonal linear binary codes of algebraic coding theory. In particular, the basic abstract structure theory of the abelian subgroups of Ṽ(n) is reflected in the distinction between ordinary self-orthogonal codes and even self-orthogonal codes. Work of Quillen on the equivariant cohomology of Spin(n) affects the classification of even self-orthogonal codes.
Toxicity of Stormwater Runoff After Dormant Spray Application of Diazinon and Esfenvalerate (Asana®) in a French Prune Orchard, Glenn County, California, USA

Organophosphate pesticides (OPs), in particular diazinon and chlorpyrifos, have frequently been detected in toxic concentrations in waterways draining agricultural and urban areas in California’s Sacramento and San Joaquin River watersheds (US Geological Survey 1997, Werner et al. 2000). Toxicity has in part been linked to stormwater runoff of OP pesticides applied during the dormant season on stonefruit and almond orchards (Foe and Sheipline 1993; Kuivila and Foe 1995). State Water Quality Plans have now been implemented by regulatory agencies to prevent movement of OPs into surface water, and growers have reduced the application of OPs. Simultaneously, the use of so-called reduced-risk alternatives, such as pyrethroid insecticides and Bacillus thuringiensis bloom sprays, has increased dramatically (Epstein et al. 2000).
Mechanical properties of Mg2Si thermoelectric materials with the addition of 0–4 vol% silicon carbide nanoparticles (SiCNP)

For thermoelectric generators, the individual thermoelectric elements are subjected to significant stresses under in-service conditions, due to thermal cycles, transients, and gradients, as well as thermal expansion mismatch and externally applied mechanical stresses. Most thermoelectric materials are brittle, possessing a low fracture toughness that is typically no more than 1.5 MPa m1/2 and is often less than 0.5 MPa m1/2. The combination of the stresses encountered in the device application environment and the materials’ low fracture toughness constitute a severe challenge to the viability of thermoelectric generators. The addition of silicon carbide nanoparticles (SiCNP) may provide a route to improving the fracture toughness for a wide range of thermoelectric materials. This study examines the mechanical properties, including elastic modulus, hardness, and fracture toughness for 0–4 vol% SiCNP incorporated into Mg2Si thermoelectric matrices.
Investigation of the structural basis for thermodynamic stabilities of tandem GU wobble pairs: NMR structures of (rGGAGUUCC)2 and (rGGAUGUCC)2.

The symmetric, tandem GU mismatch motifs, and , which only differ in the mismatch order, have an average difference in thermodynamic stability of 2 kcal/mol at 37 °C. Thermodynamic studies of duplexes containing these motifs indicate the effect is largely localized to the mismatches and adjacent base pairs. The three-dimensional structures of two representative duplexes, (rGGAGUUCC)2 and (rGGAUGUCC)2, were determined by two-dimensional NMR and a simulated annealing protocol. Local deviations are similar to other intrahelical GU mismatches with little effect on backbone torsion angles and a slight overtwisting between the base pair 5‘ of the G of the mismatch and the mismatch itself. Comparisons of the resulting stacking patterns along with electrostatic potential maps suggest that interactions between highly negative electrostatic regions between base pairs may play a role in the observed thermodynamic differences.
A paradigm for blue- or red-shifted absorption of small molecules depending on the site of π-extension.

Benzannulation of aromatic molecules is often used to red-shift absorption and emission bands of organic and inorganic, molecular, and polymeric materials; however, in some cases, either red or blue shifts are observed, depending on the site of benzannulation. A series of five platinum(II) complexes of the form (N∧N∧N)PtCl are reported here that illustrate this phenomenon, where N∧N∧N represents the tridentate monoanionic ligands 2,5-bis(2-pyridylimino)3,4-diethylpyrrolate (1), 1,3-bis(2-pyridylimino)isoindolate (2), 1,3-bis(2-pyridylimino)benz(f)isoindolate (3), 1,3-bis(2-pyridylimino)benz(e)isoindolate (4), and 1,3-bis(1-isoquinolylimino) isoindolate (5). For this series of molecules, either a blue shift (2 and 3) or a red shift (4 and 5) in absorption and emission maxima, relative to their respective nonbenzannulated compounds, was observed that depends on the site of benzannulation. Experimental data and first principles calculations suggest that a similar HOMO energy level and a destabilized or stabi...
The parametric response map is an imaging biomarker for early cancer treatment outcome

Here we describe the parametric response map (PRM), a voxel-wise approach for image analysis and quantification of hemodynamic alterations during treatment for 44 patients with high-grade glioma. Relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) and flow (rCBF) maps were acquired before treatment and after 1 and 3 weeks of therapy. We compared the standard approach using region-of-interest analysis for change in rCBV or rCBF to the change in perfusion parameters on the basis of PRM (PRM(rCBV) and PRM(rCBF)) for their accuracy in predicting overall survival. Neither the percentage change of rCBV or rCBF predicted survival, whereas the regional response evaluations made on the basis of PRM were highly predictive of survival. Even when accounting for baseline rCBV, which is prognostic, PRM(rCBV) proved more predictive of overall survival.
Altered serotonin uptake kinetics in multiple sclerosis

Platelet serotonin uptake was studied in 20 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in acute relapse and in 20 age-and sex-matched controls. While there was no difference in the maximum velocity of the uptake, Michaelis constants were significantly higher and correlated positively with the Disability Status Scale score. The results suggest a competitive block of the serotonin uptake sites in platelets of MS patients.
High temperature low sag (HTLS) technologies as upgrades for overhead transmission systems

This paper addresses the subject of transmission expansion. A relatively new technology, high temperature low sag (HTLS), is considered for overhead transmission. HTLS conductors have high ampacity, but also high cost. The paper outlines the favorable and unfavorable characteristics of HTLS conductors. The portion of the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) system in the state of Arizona is used as a test bed. The summer peak 2012 loading data are used. The case considered is the expected integration of large scale solar generation resources.
Active energy control in civil structures

This study explores the use of a linear PMDC machine as a regenerative force actuator for the mitigation of earthquake disturbances in civil structures. Unlike previous studies of this kind, the control system developed is purely active, meaning no 'hybrid' control techniques are used, such as the combination of active force actuation and passive tuned mass dampers. Modeling methods for the machine as well as its associate drive electronics are briefly described. It is shown that for this purely active system, it is possible and feasible to develop regenerative excitation schemes which drive the machine primarily by absorbing power from the excited building. Such regenerative excitation makes it possible to isolate the actuator from the external power grid, which is necessary during earthquakes, where the quality, or even the mere availability of external power is questionable. Furthermore, results are presented which find the minimum reservoir of energy necessary to excite the machine during the beginning of the earthquake, and it is shown that the actuator local power supply will see a gain in energy across the duration of the disturbance. The control system design methods presented employ position feedback. Then, force limiting techniques are employed to regulate power flow in the machine. The effectiveness of this control design is evaluated on a 3-story building, and performance is briefly compared to that of semi-active control designs proposed elsewhere.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Expression: a google glass based assistive solution for social signal processing

Assistive technology solutions can help people with disability from social isolation, depression, facilitate social interaction and enhance the quality of life. Limited access to non-verbal cues hinders the social interaction of people who are blind or visually impaired. This paper presents 'Expression' - an integrated assistive solution using Google Glass. The key function of the system is to enable the user to perceive social signals during a natural face-to-face conversation. Subjective evaluation of Expression was performed using a five (5) point Likert Scale and was found to be excellent(4:383).
Small bowel enteroscopy: territory conquered, future horizons.

Purpose of review To review recent advances in small bowel enteroscopy, focusing on indications, modifications to improve imaging and techniques, pitfalls, and clinical applications. Recent findings The need for endoscopic access to improve diagnosis and treatment of small bowel disease has led to the development of novel technologies, video capsule, and double balloon endoscopy. Newer devices, single balloon and spiral endoscopy, are just entering clinical use. With new technologies come the trials and tribulations of learning new endoscopic skills and determining their role in the diagnosis and treatment of small bowel disease. Identification of small bowel lesions has dramatically improved. However, small bowel angulations, peristalsis, and bilious fluid in the lumen can result in false readings or missed lesions. Studies are underway to determine the best strategy to apply new enteroscopy technologies for the diagnosis and management of small bowel disease, particularly bleeding. Summary Complete enteroscopy of the small bowel is now possible. However, because of the length of the small bowel, endoscopic examination and therapeutic maneuvers require patience and significant skill. Prospective randomized studies are needed to guide diagnostic testing and therapy with these new endoscopic techniques.
Diffusion and Correlation Effects in Copper-Zinc Alloys

The self-diffusion coefficients of copper in copper-zinc alloys containing 0-4-at.% zinc have been measured at 894.4 and 946.7\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. These results, together with the correlation factor for the diffusion of zinc in copper as determined from measurements of the isotope effect, are used to obtain the relative jump frequencies of the zinc atoms and the neighboring copper atoms by means of the theory of Howard and Manning. The isotope effect for the diffusion of both copper and zinc has been measured in $\ensuremath{\alpha}$---Cu-Zn alloys containing 4- and 30-at.% Zn, and in ordered and disordered $\ensuremath{\beta}$---Cu-Zn. The results support Manning's theory of correlation effects in concentrated alloys for those cases where the theory should be applicable (30-at.% Zn and disordered $\ensuremath{\beta}$---Cu-Zn). The agreement is poorer for those cases where the theory is less applicable (4-at.% Zn and ordered $\ensuremath{\beta}$---Cu-Zn). The isotope effect for the diffusion of copper is the same in ordered and in disordered $\ensuremath{\beta}$---Cu-Zn. This supports our earlier conclusion that the Elcock-McCombie mechanism is not the dominant mechanism in ordered $\ensuremath{\beta}$---Cu-Zn when the state of the order is described by $S=0.7$.