cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Coupling micro and meso-scale combustion models of AP/HTPB propellants

Abstract Combustion simulations at the micro and meso-scales are coupled to give a more theoretically based and accurate description of AP (ammonium perchlorate)/HTPB (hydroxyl-terminated polybutadiene) composite propellant combustion. One and two-dimensional micro-scale combustion models of AP and AP/HTPB, which include detailed kinetics and species transport, are utilized to define semi-global kinetics for a meso-scale propellant combustion model capable of representing the complex morphology of an actual propellant. The AP/HTPB flame structure predicted with the micro-scale models is separated into four flames. Each flame is represented with a single reaction, thus a new four-step kinetic mechanism is implemented into the meso-scale model. Physical and kinetic parameters are determined with the micro-scale models. The meso-scale model is calibrated and validated with the micro-scale models to ensure the correct flame structure, as a function of pressure and AP particle sizes, is recreated with the four-step mechanism. The primary focus of this work is to outline the methodology used to couple the two numerical scales. Results of the meso-scale model are compared with the previous empirically-parameterized meso-scale model results and experimental data. Predictions are within 10% of experimental values for a range of AP/HTPB propellants.
A pilot randomized controlled trial assessing secondary prevention of traumatic stress integrated into pediatric trauma care

Medical settings provide opportunities for secondary prevention of traumatic stress and other sequelae of pediatric injury. This pilot randomized trial evaluated the delivery and effectiveness of a targeted preventive intervention based on best practice recommendations and integrated within acute medical care. Hospitalized injured children were screened for risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Those at risk (N = 85) were randomized to the intervention (n = 46) or usual care (n = 39). The preventive intervention did not reduce PTSD or depression severity or increase health-related quality of life, compared to usual care. Both groups improved over time, but 6 months postinjury approximately 10% of each group still met criteria for PTSD, suggesting room for improvement in comprehensive pediatric injury care.
Loblolly pine needle nutrient and soil enzyme activity as influenced by ozone and acid rain chemistry

Abstract Atmospheric air pollutants such as acid rain and O 3 are present throughout the Southeastern U.S.A. and are known to suppress tree growth and crop productivity. Precipitation chemistry has shown changes in the ratio of N and S compounds in recent years. A greenhouse study was conducted using continuous stirred reactor chambers to determine the effects of simulated acid rain (SAR) chemistry, O 3 and their interaction on loblolly pine seedling biomass, loblolly pine secondary needly nutrient content and soil enzyme activities. The seedlings were exposed to 0, 80, 160, 240 or 320 nl O 3 l −1 at SAR pH 4.3 with two ratios of N-to-S (7N-to-3S and 3N-to-7S) for 11 wk. The secondary needle and root biomass were significantly suppressed by increasing O 3 concentrations. A decreased content of P, Ca and Mg in secondary needles was also found with increasing O 3 concentration. Neither SAR chemistry (N-to-S ratios) or the interaction of SAR chemistry and O 3 had significant effects on loblolly pine seedling biomass. Acid phosphatase and arylsulfatase activities were dependent on SAR chemistry. The activity of soil acid phosphatase and arylsulfatase was inhibited by O 3 when S application through simulated acid rain was higher (7-to-3, S-to-N). The inhibitory effects appeared at 160 nl O 3 l −1 for acid phosphatase and 240 nl O 3 l −1 for arylsulfatase. Dehydrogenase activity was not affected by either O 3 or SAR chemistry.
On wreath products of C-algebras, table algebras, and association schemes

Abstract In this paper we will first present characterizations of wreath products of C-algebras, and show that the dual of the wreath product of C-algebras is isomorphic to the wreath product of the duals of those C-algebras in the reverse order. Then we prove the Krull–Schmidt type theorems for the wreath products of table algebras as well as for the wreath products of association schemes.
Nature of ruthenium-copper catalysts

Abstract The chemisorption and catalytic properties of ruthenium-copper catalysts with a metal dispersion of the order of 1%, in which the dispersion refers to the fraction of metal atoms present in the surface, were investigated and compared with previously published data on supported ruthenium-copper clusters of much higher dispersion. Ruthenium and copper are essentially completely immiscible in the bulk, but there is evidence of definite interaction between the two in ruthenium-copper catalysts. The presence of copper decreases the capacity of ruthenium for hydrogen chemisorption and also suppresses markedly the catalytic activity for hydrogenolysis of ethane to methane. The ethane hydrogenolysis activity of a ruthenium-copper catalyst is strikingly related to its capacity for strong hydrogen chemisorption, the latter being defined as the amount of chemisorbed hydrogen retained by the catalyst after evacuation at room temperature. The interaction between copper and ruthenium occurs at the surface and is likened to that which would exist if copper were chemisorbed on ruthenium. The state of dispersion of a ruthenium-copper catalyst has a major influence on the effect of the copper. The atomic ratio of copper to ruthenium required for a given degree of coverage of the surface by copper increases with increasing dispersion, as is clearly reflected by the results on hydrogen chemisorption and ethane hydrogenolysis.
Laboratory and clinical experience with neodymium:YAG laser prostatectomy

Since 1991, we have undertaken extensive laboratory and clinical studies of the Neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser for surgical treatment of bladder outlet obstruction due to prostatic enlargement or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Side-firing optical fibers which emit a divergent, relatively low energy density Nd:YAG laser beam produce coagulation necrosis of obstructing periurethral prostate tissue, followed by gradual dissolution and slough in the urinary stream. Laser-tissue interactions and Nd:YAG laser dosimetry for prostatectomy have been studied in canine and human prostate model systems, enhancing clinical application. Ongoing studies examine comparative Nd:YAG laser dosimetry for various beam configurations produced by available side-firing optical fibers and continue to refine operative technique. We have documented clinical outcomes of Nd:YAG laser prostatectomy in 230 consecutive patients treated with the UrolaseTM side-firing optical fiber. Nd:YAG laser coagulation the prostate produces a remarkably low acute morbidity profile, with no significant bleeding or fluid absorption. No postoperative incontinence has been produced. Serial assessments of voiding outcomes over more than 3 years of followup show objective and symptomatic improvement following Nd:YAG laser prostatectomy which is comparable to older but more morbid electrosurgical approaches. Nd:YAG laser prostatectomy is a safe, efficacious, durable and cost-effective treatment for BPH.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Radial diffusion in electrochemistry of two-dimensional systems at the air-water interface

The formation of a non-linear diffusion zone of electroactive material in solution adjacent to a microelectrode is now a well-known phenomenon [ll. It is observed whenever at least one dimension of an electrode becomes small compared with the thickness of the diffusion layer. For example, a hemispherical diffusion zone develops in solution around a microdisk electrode and a hemicylindrical diffusion zone is known to form at microband electrodes [l]. (This statement reflects convenient approximations of the behavior of microdisk and microband electrodes by the current to hemisphere and hemicylinder respectively.1 These simple patterns also prevail when one examines a redox system in two-dimensional (2-D), space. However, in two dimensions, only one dimension of a working electrode is relevant and thus radial diffusion begins to dominate mass transport when the length of a line electrode becomes small compared with the diffusion layer thickness. We have recently described an electrochemical experiment in which redox species are confined to the air-water interface [2]. N-octadecyNferrocenecarboxamide) (C,,Fc), a water-insoluble and non-volatile surfactant, is spread at the water surface in a Langmuir trough. Its surface concentration can be controlled over a wide range by adjusting the position of a movable barrier which determines the area of water surface available to the monolayer assembly. The electrochemical experiments addressing the C,,Fc monolayer on the water surface are carried out with a one dimensional (1-D) microelectrode positioned in the plane of the air-water interface. The counter-electrode and reference electrode are immersed in the subphase behind the barrier as shown in Fig. 1. We showed that the 2-D nature of the surface monolayer and the effectively 1-D character of the microelectrode lead to the development of a linear diffusion layer in two dimensions against the line working electrode 121. The shape of the voltammetric curves is identical
New species, new variety and new combinations in Stenandrium (Acanthaceae) from Ecuador and Colombia

A new species and a new variety are described: Stenandrium harlingii from prov. Morona-Santiago and S. harlingii var. angustifolia from Morona-Santiago. The new taxa are described, illustrated, and compared with their closest relatives. Four new Colombian combinations are also made: Stenandrium andrei, S. arnoldii, S. fosbergii and S. nephoica.
The 5′-leader of tobacco mosaic virus promotes translation through enhanced recruitment of eIF4F

The 5'-leader sequence (called Omega) of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) functions as a translational enhancer in plants. A poly(CAA) region within Omega is responsible for the translation enhancement and serves as a binding site for the heat shock protein, HSP101, which is required for the translational enhancement. Genetic analysis of the HSP101-mediated enhancement of translation from Omega-containing mRNA suggested that two eukaryotic initiation factors (eIFs), i.e. eIF4G and eIF3, were necessary. In this study, the functional interaction between Omega and other RNA elements known to participate in the recruitment of eIF4G, i.e. the 5'-cap and the poly(A) tail, was examined. Omega exhibited functional overlap with the 5'-cap and the poly(A) tail but not with the native TMV 3'-UTR which contains an independent translational enhancer. Consistent with the role of HSP101 in mediating the translational function of Omega, the enhancement afforded by Omega increased following a heat shock, which elevates expression of HSP101. The use of a fractionated translation lysate revealed that of the two eIF4F proteins present in plants, eIF4F was specifically required for the activity of Omega. The data suggest that Omega is functionally similar to a 5'-cap and a poly(A) tail in that it serves to recruit eIF4F in order to enhance translation from an mRNA.
Molecular wear and tear leads to terminal marking and the unstable isoforms of aging

Our studies focus on the mechanisms of molecular wear and tear, terminal marking, protein degradation, and how these processes are altered with age. Molecular wear and tear directly links catalysis with postsynthetic terminal marking. For example, the binding of ligands and catalysis cause conformational changes that are transmitted from the catalytic center to the site of terminal marking and enhance the rates of specific covalent modifications, such as deamidation or oxidation. These oxidations or deamidations can introduce "KFERQ motifs" into proteins, which may permit them to be recognized and transported to the site(s) of complete degradation. Terminally marked proteins accumulate in aging cells and tissues and account for many of the health problems of the elderly. Two-dimensional protein fingerprinting coupled with immunostaining permits identification and characterization of these proteins. Free-radical traps or caloric restriction, which may prevent the formation or enhance the degradation of terminally marked proteins, may be useful in the prevention or treatment of age-associated health problems, including dementia.
SeaWinds Scatterometer Wind Vector Retrievals within Hurricanes using AMSR and NEXRAD to Perform Corrections for Precipitation Effects: Comparison of AMSR and NEXRAD Retrievals of Rain

The opportunity provided by satellite scatterometers to measure ocean surface winds in strong storms and hurricanes is diminished by the errors in the received backscatter (SIGMA-0) caused by the attenuation, scattering and surface roughening produced by heavy rain. Providing a good rain correction is a very challenging problem, particularly at Ku band (13.4 GHz) where rain effects are strong. Corrections to the scatterometer measurements of ocean surface winds can be pursued with either of two different methods: empirical or physical modeling. The latter method is employed in this study because of the availability of near simultaneous and collocated measurements provided by the MIDORI-II suite of instruments. The AMSR was designed to measure atmospheric water-related parameters on a spatial scale comparable to the SeaWinds scatterometer. These quantities can be converted into volumetric attenuation and scattering at the Ku-band frequency of SeaWinds. Optimal estimates of the volume backscatter and attenuation require a knowledge of the three dimensional distribution of reflectivity on a scale comparable to that of the precipitation. Studies selected near the US coastline enable the much higher resolution NEXRAD reflectivity measurements evaluate the AMSR estimates. We are also conducting research into the effects of different beam geometries and nonuniform beamfilling of precipitation within the field-of-view of the AMSR and the scatterometer. Furthermore, both AMSR and NEXRAD estimates of atmospheric correction can be used to produce corrected SIGMA-0s, which are then input to the JPL wind retrieval algorithm.
Evolving requirements in patient-centered software

The implications of an aging U.S. population indicate that a large portion of the population will receive limited access to the healthcare they need, unless clinical preventive services are provided. Patient-centered healthcare, in which patients gain more access to and control over their own health, is becoming an important part of clinical preventive services and so is software. Healthcare entails highly complex processes that require substantial communication between different healthcare professionals. A major concern for patient-centered software is that it must adapt to changing needs to support long-term wellbeing, i.e., new knowledge must be considered continuously as part of the software lifecycle. This position paper contends that research efforts should be directed toward software engineering solutions that consider evolution as a part of the software lifecycle and use a variety of feedback channels to direct evolution, and presents a research agenda integrated with an approach that addresses evolving needs through a continuous data-driven requirements engineering (RE) technique.
Diffusion of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I and Ribonuclease through Fibrin Gels

A fluorescence-based method for simultaneously determining the diffusion coefficients of two proteins is described, and the diffusion coefficient of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I) and ribonuclease (RNase) in a 0.27% fibrin hydrogel is reported. The method is based on two-color imaging of the relaxation of the protein concentration field with time and comparing the results with a transport model. The gel is confined in a thin (200 μm) capillary and the protein is labeled with a fluorescent dye. The experimentally determined diffusion coefficient of RNase (D = 1.21 × 10−6 cm2/s) agrees with literature values for dilute gels and bulk aqueous solutions, thus indicating the gel and the dye had a negligible effect on diffusion. The experimental diffusion coefficient of IGF-I (D = 1.59 × 10−6 cm2/s), in the absence of binding to the fibrin matrix, is consistent with the dimensions of the molecule known from x-ray crystallography and a correlation between D and molecular weight based on 14 other proteins. The experimental method developed here holds promise for determining molecular transport properties of biomolecules under a variety of conditions, for example, when the molecule adsorbs to the gel or is convected through the gel by fluid transport.
Inflammatory mediators and nuclear receptor signaling in colorectal cancer.

ABSTRACTLong-term use of cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors (NSAIDs) in humans leads to a 50% reduction in risk for colorectal cancer. However, prolonged use of COX-2 selective inhibitors (coxibs) increases cardiovascular toxicity in some individuals, which highlights the importance of identifying all of the molecular targets that drive progression of colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer offers a unique model to study the synergistic induction of intestinal neoplasia via dysregulation of multiple signaling pathways. Emerging evidence demonstrates that the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor δ (PPARδ) is a focal point of crosstalk between the signaling cascades involved in the progression of colorectal cancer. More importantly, activation of PPARδ can promote tumor growth by inhibiting epithelial tumor cell apoptosis by affecting a VEGF autocrine signaling loop. These findings may provide a rationale for the development of PPARδ antagonists for cancer prevention and/or treatment.
Enhanced expression of transient receptor potential channels in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension

Pulmonary vascular medial hypertrophy caused by excessive pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell (PASMC) proliferation is a major cause for the elevated pulmonary vascular resistance in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH). Increased Ca2+ influx is an important stimulus for PASMC proliferation. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channel genes encode Ca2+ channels that are responsible for Ca2+ entry during cell proliferation. Normal human PASMC expressed multiple canonical TRP (TRPC) isoforms; TRPC6 was highly expressed and TRPC3 was minimally expressed. The protein expression of TRPC6 in normal PASMC closely correlated with the expression of Ki67, suggesting that TRPC6 expression is involved in the transition of PASMC from quiescent phase to mitosis. In lung tissues and PASMC from IPAH patients, the mRNA and protein expression of TRPC3 and -6 were much higher than in those from normotensive or secondary pulmonary hypertension patients. Inhibition of TRPC6 expression with TRPC6 small interfering RNA markedly attenuated IPAH-PASMC proliferation. These results demonstrate that expression of TRPC channels correlates with the progression of the cell cycle in PASMC. TRPC channel overexpression may be partially responsible for the increased PASMC proliferation and pulmonary vascular medial hypertrophy in IPAH patients.
Monitoring of the ballistocardiogram with the static charge sensitive bed

The authors describe the static charge sensitive bed (SCSB), which consists of a sensitive movement detector embedded in a mattress. When a subject rests on the bed, a single electrical signal, containing components reflective of cardiac, respiratory, and body movement related motion, is produced. The authors describe a digital signal processing technique. to separate the BCG (ballistocardiogram) from the SCSB signal. An evaluation of this algorithm was conducted using recordings from normal volunteers. Comparisons with simultaneously recorded reference signals indicated that the algorithm performed satisfactorily in a laboratory environment. The results presented demonstrate that valuable BCG information can be obtained from the SCSB signal after suitable processing. >
1666 ACUTE PARAINFECTIOUS PARKINSON'S SYNDROME: CSF FINDINGS OVER ONE YEAR

We describe the clinical course, CSF catecholamine metabolites and immunoglobulins, and radiographic changes over 1 year in a case of acute parainfectious Parkinson's syndrome. Seven days after the onset of a viral syndrome, a 7 year old developed bradykinesia, rigidity, and involuntary movements. By 5 weeks, clinical improvement began. At 1 year, subtle basal ganglia and cerebellar signs were present. Acutely the CSF IgG/albumin ratio was at upper limit of normal (.27, normal 0-.27) and the IgG Index (CSF IgG/albumin ratio % serum IgG/albumin ratio) rose from .68 (day 12) to .96 (day 20) then returned to .42 (normal 0-.68). Attempts to identify a viral agent were unsuccessful. CSF catecholamine metabolites acutely showed markedly decreased homovanillic acid (HVA) (15.8 ng/ml, normal 91 + 43.5) and slightly reduced 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) (15.3 ng/ml, normal 43.9 ±21). By 13 months the HVA returned to 43.6 ng/dl and 5-HIAA was 11.0 ng/ml. CT scan initially showed lucencies in the caudate and globus pallidus and generalized atrophy; by 1 year, only diffuse atrophy, marked in the cerebellum, was seen. The CSF immunoglobulins are suggestive of an inflammatory process. The CSF catecholamine metabolites and the CT findings correlate well with the clinical course. The association between clinical abnormalities of tone and decreased dopamine metabolites (HVA) is similar to findings in adult patients with Parkinson's Disease.
Distribution, production, and age structure of slimy sculpin in an Arctic lake

Slimy sculpins (Cottus cognatus) were caught in the littoral region of Toolik Lake, an arctic lake. These sculpins grew slower and lived longer (71 mm at 8+ years) than more southerly populations. Sculpin distribution along the slope of the rocky littoral zone was greatest at the 3.5 m depth and coincided with the rock-mud interface. The hypothesis that this ‘preferred’ area provided both increased prey and reduced predation was advanced. Yearly production estimate of littoral sculpins was 0.40 g · m−2 · yr−1 with a P/B ratio of 0.36. This is considerably less than estimates for more southerly populations of the same species.
Chiral 1 / M 2 corrections to B ( * ) → D ( * ) at zero recoil in quenched chiral perturbation theory

Heavy quark effective theory can be used to calculate the values of the semileptonic B^(*) -> D^(*) decays in the limit that the heavy quark masses are infinite. We calculate the lowest order chiral corrections, which are of O(1/M^2), from the breaking of heavy quark symmetry at the zero recoil point in quenched chiral perturbation theory. These results will aid in the extrapolation of quenched lattice calculations from the light quark masses used on the lattice down to the physical ones.
Fernando's solution to Wilkinson's problem: An application of double factorization

Abstract Suppose that one knows a very accurate approximation σ to an eigenvalue λ of a symmetric tridiagonal matrix T . A good way to approximate the eigenvector x is to discard an appropriate equation, say the rth , from the system (T − σI) x = 0 and then to solve the resulting underdetermined system in any of several stable ways. However the output x can be completely inaccurate if r is chosen poorly, and in the absence of a quick and reliable way to choose r , this method has lain neglected for over 35 years. Experts in boundary value problems have known about the special structure of the inverse of a tridiagonal matrix since the 1960s, and their double triangular factorization technique (down and up) gives directly the redundancy of each equation and so reveals the set of good choices for r . The relation of double factorization to the eigenvector algorithm of Godunov and his collaborators is described. The results extend to band matrices and to zero entries in eigenvectors, and have uses beyond eigenvector computation.
Effect of in vivo administration of anti‐CTLA‐4 monoclonal antibody and IL‐12 on the induction of low‐dose oral tolerance

Oral tolerance has been characterized as an immunological hyporesponsiveness to fed antigen. Previous studies have suggested that high-dose oral tolerance involves the preferential interaction of B7 with CTLA-4 on the T cell. To determine whether similar mechanisms are involved in the induction of low-dose oral tolerance, mice were treated with anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody (MoAb), with or without IL-12, at the time of feeding. Results showed that anti-CTLA-4 MoAb alone failed to restore cellular proliferation, antibody titres and IFN-gamma levels; however, IL-4 cytokine levels in OVA-fed mice were partially restored. In contrast, administration of IL-12 along with anti-CTLA-4 MoAb to mice during feeding completely prevented the suppression of Th1 immune responses, as shown by increased serum IgG2a titres, IFN-gamma production and cell proliferation. These results suggest that blocking B7-CTLA-4 interactions in the presence of IL-12 prevents the induction of low-dose oral tolerance at the Th1 cell level.
Benzodiazepines for supplementing steroid anesthesia.

Abstract Benzodiazepine drugs, e.g. diazepam, flurazepam and chlordiazepoxide were administered togetger with different steroid anesthetics i.v. to rodents. The minimal hypnotic doses and the duration of sleep were determined. The benzodiazepine drugs, particularly diazepam, potentiated the hypnotic effect of the steroidal agents. Clinical application of the combination of these two types of drugs is suggested.
Modeling and real time mapping of phases during GTA welding of 1005 steel

Abstract Evolution of the microstructure in AISI 1005 steel weldments was studied during gas tungsten arc (GTA) welding experimentally and theoretically. The experimental work involved real-time mapping of phases in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) using a synchrotron-based spatially resolved X-ray diffraction (SRXRD) technique and post weld microstructural characterization of the fusion zone (FZ). A three-dimensional heat transfer and fluid flow model was used to calculate the temperature and velocity fields, thermal cycles, and the geometry of the FZ and the HAZ. The experimental SRXRD phase map and the computed thermal cycles were used to determine the kinetic parameters in the Johnson–Mehl–Avrami (JMA) equation for the ferrite to austenite transformation during heating in the HAZ. Apart from providing a quantitative expression for the kinetics of this transformation, the results are consistent with a decreasing nucleation rate of austenite from a ferrite matrix with time. In the FZ, the volume fractions of microconstituents were calculated using an existing phase transformation model and the computed thermal cycles. Good agreement was found between the calculated and experimental volume fractions of allotriomorphic and Widmanstatten ferrites in the FZ. The results indicate significant promise for understanding microstructure evolution during GTA welding of AISI 1005 steel by a combination of real time phase mapping and modeling.
Microeconomics of collaboration and network configuration

Purpose – The past decade has witnessed a trend toward unbundling of enterprises that were once highly integrated in vertical forms or horizontally as conglomerates. The economic forces behind these changes simultaneously enabled collaborative relationships that replaced command‐control coordination. While such change has been widespread, the food industry serves as an example of an industry where such strategies have been incompletely pursued. This paper aims to provide a microeconomic explanation of three bases for the emergence of collaboration and network formation: transaction costs, interdependence in value creation processes, and shared resources.Design/methodology/approach – Within a setting of the food industry, a microeconomic theory of firm level choice of transactions is presented and extended to consider market level equilibrium in where persistent relationships are defined to compose an integrated economic network.Findings – The paper presents a framework for identification of the optimal pa...
Excited-State Structure and Dynamics of cis-and trans-Azobenzene from Resonance Raman Intensity Analysis

Resonance Raman intensity analysis was used to investigate the initial excited-state nuclear dynamics of cis- and trans-azobenzene following S1 (npi*) excitation, and fluorescence quantum yield measurements were used to estimate the excited-state lifetimes. trans-Azobenzene exhibits the strongest Raman intensities in its skeletal stretching and bending modes, while torsional motions dominate the nuclear relaxation of cis-azobenzene as indicated by intense Raman lines at 275, 542, 594, and 778 cm(-1). The very weak fluorescence quantum yield for cis-azobenzene is consistent with its approximately 100 fs electronic lifetime while trans-azobenzene, with a fluorescence quantum yield of 1.1 x 10(-5), has an estimated S1 lifetime of approximately 3 ps. The absorption and Raman cross-sections of both isomers were modeled to produce a harmonic displaced excited-state potential energy surface model revealing the initial nuclear motions on the reactive surface, as well as values for the homogeneous and inhomogeneous linewidths. For cis-azobenzene, this modeling predicts slopes on the S1 potential energy surface that when extrapolated to the position of the harmonic minimum give excited-state changes of approximately 6-20 degrees in the CNNC torsion angle and a < or =3 degrees change in the CNN bending angle. The relatively large excited-state displacements along these torsional degrees of freedom provide the driving force for ultrafast isomerization. In contrast, the excited-state geometry changes of trans-azobenzene are primarily focused on the CNN bend and CN and NN stretches. These results support the idea that cis-azobenzene isomerizes rapidly via rotation about the NN bond, while isomerization proceeds via inversion for trans-azobenzene.
Three theories of egocentric speech: A contrastive analysis

Three theories of egocentric speech are contrasted. Alternative predictions of the same phenomenon by the theories of Piaget, Vygotsky and a prototheoretical position associated with Mead, Flavell and Wilder are subjected to empirical evaluation. The Mead‐Flavell‐Wilder prototheory proved to be the most predictive. Weaknesses in its explanatory power are explored. Some assumptions remain to be tested before the contrast is complete.
Influence of cyanobacterial diet on Asplanchna predation risk in Brachionus calyciflorus

Asplanchna sylvestrii does not discriminate between groups of Brachionus calyciflorus fed either the cymobacterixxm Anabaena flos-aquae or a control diet of Euglena gracilis. We based our analysis on the observed probabilities of attack, capture and ingestion during encounters between predator and prey. While A. sylvestrii was very sensitive to brachionid size, we found no significant affects of prey diet on predatory behavior. Thus, cyanobacterial diet did not influence the short-term predation risk of B. calyciflorus exposed to an effective predator. On the other hand, matched cohorts of A. sylvestrii fed B. calyciflorus cultured on the cyanobacterium reproduced more slowly than those fed the same prey cultured on the control food. With prolonged sympatry, therefore, the long-term risk of Asplanchna predation may be reduced for Brachionus by the latter’s consumption of cyanobacteria.
SOCIAL JUSTICE, SEXUALITY, AND THE CITY

The sexualized nature of capitalist development processes has generally been ignored in both critical and mainstream social science. This is due to a largely unexamined heterosexist bias that pervades both perspectives, and whose connections to other forms of oppression are almost always also left unexamined. The social injustices associated with dominant sexualizations cross all five of the faces of oppression identified by Iris Young (1990) and used by David Harvey (1992) to develop a reworked conception of social justice. At least one other face of oppression—closeting—can be identified when issues surrounding sexuality are considered. The underlying sources of these oppressions are to be found not just in a revolutionary dynamic inherent in capitalism, but in a complex social totality that is characterized by dualistic thinking and cross-cutting, mutually constitutive sets of social relationships. These include (but are not limited to) those of race, class, gender, ability/disability, and sexuality.
Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of flexible distribution of energy and storage resources

Flexible distribution of energy and storage resources (FDERS) offers the benefits of increased resource lifetime, optimal energy storage deployment, enhanced controllability and improved system robustness. It is enabled through the use of reconfiguration, variable interface reactances and/or adjustable distributed energy resource (DER) controls to create a cooperative framework among multiple interconnected DERs in meeting the system load demands. This paper presents a systematic approach towards analysis of FDERS dynamic behavior to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the above benefits and provide design recommendations. It includes developing theoretical small-signal system models along with detailed time-domain simulations in MATLAB®/Simulink™ environment for an FDERS consisting of multiple interconnected DERs in various cooperative formations.
Are the new tools the best tools for private practice

Innovations in treating anxiety disorders are critically evaluated in light of the monetary and temporal constraints of private practice. High technology may be good in research settings but does it generalize well to the average cognitive behavioral clinician?
Thread-Level Speculation on a CMP can be energy efficient

Chip Multiprocessors (CMP) with Thread-Level Speculation (TLS) have become the subject of intense research. However, TLS is suspected of being too energy inefficient to compete against conventional processors. In this paper, we refute this claim. To do so, we first identify the main sources of dynamic energy consumption in TLS. Then, we present simple energy-saving optimizations that cut the energy cost of TLS by over 60% on average with minimal performance impact. The resulting TLS CMP, populated with four 3-issue cores, speeds-up full SPECint 2000 codes by 1.27 on average, while keeping the fraction of the chip's energy consumption due to TLS to only 20%. Compared to a 6-issue superscalar at the same frequency, the TLS CMP is on average faster, while consuming only 85% of its total on-chip power.
Ultrastructural immunolabeling in the evaluation, diagnosis, and characterization of neuroendocrine neoplasms.

Neuroendocrine neoplasia represents a heterogenous entity with variable morphologic light microscopic expressions. In many cases a definite diagnosis is easily made by light microscopic examination, but in some cases this does not suffice. In the latter instances, immunocytochemistry, ultrastructural examination, or both are required to diagnose a neuroendocrine neoplasm. However, basing a diagnosis of neuroendocrine neoplasia exclusively on the results obtained from immunocytochemical or ultrastructural evaluation of these tumors may not be entirely accurate in some instances. Ultrastructural immunolabeling plays a key role in accurately defining localization of immunoreactive substances in well-characterized neuroendocrine neoplasms, can assess colocalization of antigenic epitopes, helps define specificity and significance of immunocytochemistry results obtained at the light microscopic level, and is more sensitive than light microscopic immunocytochemistry. Some evolving diagnostic entities can be furt...
Parent/teacher views of developmentally appropriate practices: A Hungarian perspective

The purpose of the study was to explore the beliefs of Hungarian teachers and parents of children in preschool and Grade 1 as they relate to the construct of developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) identified by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC, 1987, 1997). In order to overcome methodological problems inherent in many previous DAP studies, Q-methodology and interviews were utilized to collect, analyze and interpret the data. Fourteen teachers and 14 parents were included in the Q-methodology (7 teachers and 7 parents in each grade level). Follow-up interviews were conducted with 6 participants. Results of the study suggest three major viewpoints regarding DAP beliefs of the Hungarian participants. These included: (1) focusing on children’s individual development and learning, (2) focusing on teaching children according to the traditional teaching methods, and (3) focusing on respecting diversity in schools, in children, and in families. Recommendations for further research included: (1) teacher observations in addition to interviews, (2) exploring administrators’ views of DAP along with that of teachers and parents, and (3) extending the study into higher grade levels.
Changes in Hepatic Microsomal Triglyceride Transfer Protein and Triglyceride in Periparturient Dairy Cattle

Abstract We determined the relationship between microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) (activity, mass, and mRNA) and liver triglyceride concentration in 16 dairy cows (13 multiparous and three primiparous) from 27 d before expected calving (d –27) to 35 d postpartum (d 35), the time period when fatty liver is most likely to develop. In addition, dry matter intake, plasma nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), and plasma glucose were monitored. There were no significant parity x time interactions. Dry matter intake, plasma NEFA, plasma glucose, and liver triglyceride were significantly affected by day of sampling. Dry matter intake was 10.7, 8.0, and 19.5 kg/d on d –27, 2, and 35, respectively. Plasma NEFA concentration was higher on d 2 (1113 μEq/L) compared with d –27 (201 μEq/L) and 35 (358 μEq/L). Plasma glucose concentration was 63.3, 54.3, and 57.8 mg/dl on d –27, 2, and 35, respectively. Hepatic triglyceride (TG) concentration increased from 1.8 to 11.8% liver TG (DM basis) on d –27 and 2, respectively. There was no difference between hepatic triglyceride concentration on d 2 and 35. There was a significant effect of day of sampling on hepatic MTP activity and mRNA. Hepatic MTP activity decreased from 2.08 to 1.79 nmole triolein transferred/h per mg of microsomal protein on d –27 and 2, respectively, and increased from 1.79 to 2.17 nmole triolein transferred/h per mg of microsomal protein on d 2 and 35, respectively. Hepatic MTP mRNA increased from d –27 to 2 and remained elevated from d 2 to 35.There was no effect of day of sampling on MTP mass. There were no significant correlations between hepatic MTP activity, mass, or mRNA with either liver TG or plasma NEFA on any of the sampling days. The cause of a decrease in hepatic MTP activity and increase in mRNA on d 2 is unknown. However, the lack of correlation between MTPactivity, mass, or mRNAwith either liver TG or plasma NEFA on d 2 postpartum suggests that MTP probably does not play a role in the etiology of fatty liver that occurs in dairy cows at calving.
Modeling long-term search engine usage

Search engines are key components in the online world and the choice of search engine is an important determinant of the user experience In this work we seek to model user behaviors and determine key variables that affect search engine usage In particular, we study the engine usage behavior of more than ten thousand users over a period of six months and use machine learning techniques to identify key trends in the usage of search engines and their relationship with user satisfaction We also explore methods to determine indicators that are predictive of user trends and show that accurate predictive user models of search engine usage can be developed Our findings have implications for users as well as search engine designers and marketers seeking to better understand and retain their users.
Molecular Analysis of Recombination Events in Drosophila

The locations of crossover junctions and gene conversion tracts, isolated in the rosy gene of Drosophila melanogaster, were determined using DNA sequencing and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Frequent DNA sequence polymorphisms between the parental genes served as unselected genetic markers. All conversion tracts were continuous, and half of the reciprocal crossover events had conversion tracts at the crossover junction. These experiments have also identified the sequence polymorphisms responsible for altered gene expression in two naturally occurring rosy variants.
Convenient Method of Simultaneously Analyzing Aluminum and Magnesium in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms Using Californium-252 Thermal Neutron Activation

□ A commercial antacid suspension containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide products was used as a model sample to study the use of a californium-252 thermal neutron activation as a method for quantifying aluminum content as well as for the simultaneous assay of aluminum and magnesium. A 3.5-μg californium-252 source was used for the activation, and the induced aluminum-28 and magnesium-27 activity was simultaneously measured by sodium iodide crystal gamma-ray spectrometry using dual single-channel analyzers and scalers. The antacid suspension was contained in a chamber designed with the unique capability of serving as the container for counting the induced radioactivity in addition to being the irradiation chamber itself. Ten replicate irradiations were performed, and the precision was compared with 10 replicate analyses of the antacid suspension using the official ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid titration method. For aluminum the precision was 1.4 versus 0.62% for the titration method. For the magnesium the precision was 5.3 versus 0.79% for the titration method. This pilot study demonstrated that use of more intense californium-252 sources, which are commonly available, would provide a method that is competitive with the ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid titration method in precision and in other aspects as well.
Cross-Layer Optimized Video Streaming Over Wireless Multihop Mesh Networks

The proliferation of wireless multihop communication infrastructures in office or residential environments depends on their ability to support a variety of emerging applications requiring real-time video transmission between stations located across the network. We propose an integrated cross-layer optimization algorithm aimed at maximizing the decoded video quality of delay-constrained streaming in a multihop wireless mesh network that supports quality-of-service. The key principle of our algorithm lays in the synergistic optimization of different control parameters at each node of the multihop network, across the protocol layers-application, network, medium access control, and physical layers, as well as end-to-end, across the various nodes. To drive this optimization, we assume an overlay network infrastructure, which is able to convey information on the conditions of each link. Various scenarios that perform the integrated optimization using different levels ("horizons") of information about the network status are examined. The differences between several optimization scenarios in terms of decoded video quality and required streaming complexity are quantified. Our results demonstrate the merits and the need for cross-layer optimization in order to provide an efficient solution for real-time video transmission using existing protocols and infrastructures. In addition, they provide important insights for future protocol and system design targeted at enhanced video streaming support across wireless mesh networks
Eliminating microarchitectural dependency from Architectural Vulnerability

The Architectural Vulnerability Factor (AVF) of a hardware structure is the probability that a fault in the structure will affect the output of a program. AVF captures both microarchitectural and architectural fault masking effects; therefore, AVF measurements cannot generate insight into the vulnerability of software independent of hardware. To evaluate the behavior of software in the presence of hardware faults, we must isolate the software-dependent (architecture-level masking) portion of AVF from the hardware-dependent (microarchitecture-level masking) portion, providing a quantitative basis to make reliability decisions about software independent of hardware. In this work, we demonstrate that the new Program Vulnerability Factor (PVF) metric provides such a basis: PVF captures the architecture-level fault masking inherent in a program, allowing software designers to make quantitative statements about a program's tolerance to soft errors. PVF can also explain the AVF behavior of a program when executed on hardware; PVF captures the workload-driven changes in AVF for all structures. Finally, we demonstrate two practical uses for PVF: choosing algorithms and compiler optimizations to reduce a program's failure rate.
Genetic factors in susceptibility of Biomphalaria glabrata for different strains of Schistosoma mansoni

Biomphalaria glabrata selected for genetic differences in susceptibility to infection with a Puerto Rican strain of Schistosoma mansoni were exposed to miracidia of a strain of S. mansoni from St Lucia. The St Lucian strain was less infective than the Puerto Rican. Results suggested that in snails susceptible to the Puerto Rican S. mansoni, differences in susceptibility to the St Lucian strain were determined by a single gene, with insusceptibility dominant.
Electronic Control of Elastomeric Microfluidic Circuits with Shape Memory Actuators

Recently, sophisticated fluidic circuits with hundreds of independent valves have been built by using multi-layer soft-lithography to mold elastomers. However, this shrinking of microfluidic circuits has not been matched by a corresponding miniaturization of the actuation and interfacing elements that control the circuits; while the fluidic circuits are small ( approximately 10-100 micron wide channels), the Medusa's head-like interface, consisting of external pneumatic solenoids and tubing or mechanical pins to control each independent valve, is larger by one to four orders of magnitude (approximately mm to cm). Consequently, the dream of using large scale integration in microfluidics for portable, high throughput applications has been stymied. By combining multi-layer soft-lithography with shape memory alloys (SMA), we demonstrate electronically activated microfluidic components such as valves, pumps, latches and multiplexers, that are assembled on printed circuit boards (PCBs). Thus, high density, electronically controlled microfluidic chips can be integrated alongside standard opto-electronic components on a PCB. Furthermore, we introduce the idea of microfluidic states, which are combinations of valve states, and analogous to instruction sets of integrated circuit (IC) microprocessors. Microfluidic states may be represented in hardware or software, and we propose a control architecture that results in logarithmic reduction of external control lines. These developments bring us closer to building microfluidic circuits that resemble electronic ICs both physically, as well as in their abstract model.