cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An automatic sample changer for alpha spectroscopy with a surface barrier detector

Semiconductor particle detectors are ideal for alpha spectroscopy due to their compact size, low noise, and high resolution. This paper describes the construction and testing of an automatic sample changer for use with such a detector. The changer was constructed from locally available services and materials. It holds up to 24 samples of alpha emitting material deposited on 22 mm stainless steel counting planchets. The vacuum chamber can be evacuated to less than 10 μm mercury in 10 to 15 minutes. Once the chamber has been evacuated and detector bias has been applied, any sample in the chamber may be selected for analysis, either automatically or manually. Continuous automatic analysis of up to 24 samples is possible. Variation in efficiency from position to position was found to be 3.25% at the detector-sample spacing of 4.8 mm, and 2.31% at 27 mm. Shielding between the adjacent samples not under analysis and the detector was acceptable.
Aesthetic anti‐ageing surgery and technology: women’s friend or foe?

This study investigates women's attitudes about, and experiences of, aesthetic anti-ageing surgeries and technologies against the contextual backdrop of the growing commercialisation of medicine in the United States. Drawing from 44 intensive interviews with a spectrum of women between the ages of 47 and 76 who use, refuse, and are currently undecided about whether or not they will have or use aesthetic anti-ageing surgeries and technologies in the future, this study asks the following question: in what ways does the increasing availability, accessibility, advertising, and use of aesthetic anti-ageing surgeries and technologies interact with and inform women's perceptions and attitudes about growing older? Data analysis occurs in dialogue with the paradigms of successful ageing and agelessness and draws from, and contributes new readings of, contemporary cultural constructions of femininity.
Efficiency of sampling: Birthweight and gestational age distributions in two cohorts, < 31 weeks and 500–1499 grams

Summary. We studied the efficiency of two common sampling strategies used to assemble cohorts to study the long-term problems of preterm infants: infants with birthweights of 500–1499 g, and infants with gestational ages (GA) of < 31 weeks. Birthweight, G A and 2-year outcome data from a population based study of infants < 2001 g, the Central New Jersey Brain Hemorrhage Study (NBH), were used to define the birthweight and GA distributions, at enrolment and at the age of 2 years, of overlapping subsets: infants 500–1499 g (n= 599) and infants < 31 weeks of age (n= 522). Using frequencies from the NBH study, we estimated that 1000 infants of 500–1499 g enrolled at birth would produce 712 infants at the age of 2 years, 498 below 31 weeks and 214 above. Enrolling 1000 infants < 31 weeks would produce a cohort of 697 infants at the age of 2, all of whom were < 31 weeks. Neither sampling strategy maximised the statistical power to investigate the pathophysiological determinants of long-term outcomes associated with short GA. Both methods oversam-pled older G As. A stratified sampling technique based on GA, designed to produce equal numbers of subjects at each week of GA, would improve statistical power to study long-term outcomes. As we move from descriptive to analytical studies of preterm infants, we need to devise efficient, GA-based, sampling strategies that maximise statistical power to test pathophysiological hypotheses.
A 4-Mbit DRAM with folded-bit-line adaptive sidewall-isolated capacitor (FASIC) cell

A 5-V 4-Mb word/spl times/1-b/1-Mb word/spl times/4-b dynamic RAM with a static column model and fast page mode has been built in a 0.8-/spl mu/m twin-tub CMOS technology with single-metal, two-polycide, and single poly-Si interconnections. It uses an innovative folded-bit-line adaptive sidewall-isolated capacitor (FASIC) cell that measures 10.9 /spl mu/m/SUP 2/ and requires only a 2-/spl mu/m trench to obtain a storage capacitor of 50 fF with 10-nm SiO/SUB 2/ equivalent dielectric film. A shared-PMOS sense-amplifier architecture used in this DRAM provides a low power consumption, small C/SUB B/-to-C/SUB S/ capacitance ratio, and accurate reference level for the nonboosted word-line scheme with little area penalty. These concepts have allowed the DRAM to be housed in the industry standard 300-mil dual-in-line package with performances of 90-ns RAS access time and 30-ns column address access time.
Langevin dynamics of the choline head group in a membrane environment

Computer simulations of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) have been performed using Langevin dynamics and a Marcelja-type mean field. This work has focused on the dynamics of the choline head group to parameterize the empirical constraints against phosphorus-carbon dipolar couplings (Dp-c) as measured by nuclear magnetic resonance (13C-NMR). The results show good agreement with experimental values at constraints equivalent to the choline tilt observed in joint refinement of x-ray diffraction and neutron diffraction scatterings. Quadrupolar splittings for the alpha and beta positions are also calculated and compared with 2H-NMR experiments. The model predicts torsional transition rates around the alpha-beta bonds and for the two C-O-P-O torsions. It also predicts T1 relaxation times for the alpha and beta carbons.
A Methodology for Optimally Designing Console Panels for Use by a Single Operator

A seven-step methodology is presented to determine a dimensionally correct optimal layout of a console panel for a single operator. This methodology integrates the steps in the layout design process and uses a mathematical optimization model from facility design to obtain the optimal panel layout. A major difference in this methodology from previous work is that the mathematical optimization model incorporates factors that are only partially included in previous mathematical models. In addition, it includes the areas of the panel components as a new factor. This methodology is illustrated by the design of a nuclear power plant console panel.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of SOPS and Sphingomyelin Bilayers Containing Cholesterol

We performed a molecular dynamics simulation of an asymmetric bilayer that contained different lipid mixtures in its outer and inner leaflets. The outer leaflet contained a mixture of sphingomyelin (SM) with cholesterol and the inner leaflet a mixture of stearoyl-oleoyl-phosphatidylserine (SOPS) with cholesterol. For comparison purposes, we also performed two simulations on symmetric bilayers: the first simulation was performed on a bilayer containing a binary mixture of SOPS with cholesterol; the second contained a mixture of SM with cholesterol. We studied the hydrogen-bonding network of the bilayers in our simulations and the difference in the network properties in the monolayers either with SM or SOPS. We observed that in the asymmetric bilayer the properties of monolayers were the same as in the corresponding monolayers in the symmetric bilayers.
Synthesis of High Molecular Weight Poly(styrene-co-acrylonitrile) Copolymers with Controlled Architecture

High molecular weight styrene−acrylonitrile (SAN) copolymers were prepared under azeotropic conditions (60 mol % of styrene) by ARGET (activators regenerated by electron transfer) ATRP (atom transfer radical polymerization) at 80 °C in anisole. When a normal ATRP of styrene and acrylonitrile was conducted, the molecular weight of the resulting SAN copolymers was limited due to outer-sphere electron-transfer reactions. This was due to oxidation of polystyryl radicals to carbocations or reduction of polyacrylonitirile radicals to carbanions via reactions with Cu(II) and Cu(I) species, respectively. Since ARGET ATRP employs much lower concentrations of copper catalyst, the contributions of these side reactions are reduced, enabling formation of high molecular weight SAN copolymers (Mn ∼ 200 000) with low polydispersity (Mw/Mn < 1.3). Additionally, SAN copolymers with controlled chain architecture were prepared including block copolymers and starlike copolymers.
Alternatives to continuity, observability, and passivity in biological modeling: A tribute to McCulloch

Abstract Three limitations in our conceptual armamentarium for creating biological models are discussed, and alternative approaches, which seem to avoid the limitations, are suggested. The first limitation is to assume that the numbers used in applied mathematics are members of the “real-number” system; it is suggested that the field of computable numbers is a step in the direction of making numbers more adequate summaries of the results of measurement. The second limitation is the assumption that all systems are observable to an accuracy adequate for prediction, without thereby inducing perturbations that would invalidate the prediction; it is argued that in the case of the mammalian brain, we are already close to that limit; hence, that the viewpoint and the modeling methods developed by quantum mechanics is now required in theories that aspire to model the brain. The third limitation is to rest content with habits of modeling that were developed on dead systems, but that fail to take into account the many dimensions and levels of adaptability, variability, and interactiveness of live systems. These restrictions have not been simultaneously removed as yet; but it is proposed that brain research is the area that most requires these new viewpoints, in order to progress.
Parametric amplifier nonresonant gain maximum

Parametric amplifier analysis, taking exact account of the frequency dependence of the parametrically induced impedance in the signal circuit, indicates that maximum gain occurs at a signal frequency slightly below that at which the signal and idler circuits are resonant.
Chalcones, myo-inositol and other novel inhibitors of pulmonary carcinogenesis

The objective of the studies reported here has been to find novel chemopreventive agents effective against carcinogenesis of the lung. In particular, identification of suppressing agents, i.e., compounds preventing the evolution of the neoplastic process, has been sought. For this purpose, inhibition of pulmonary neoplasia in female A/J mice given the test agent starting one week after the last administration of three doses of benzo[a]pyrene has been employed as the experimental model. Under these conditions, chalcone, 4'-methoxychalcone,myo-inositol, dexamethasone, and "terpeneless" orange oil added to the diet suppressed pulmonary adenoma formation. Chalcone and 4'-methoxychalcone are open chain flavonoids, neither of these compounds occurs naturally, and their mechanism of action is not known. myo-Inositol is a naturally occurring compound of particular interest because of its exceedingly low toxicity. Dexamethasone is a potent glucocorticoid. Amongst its biological properties is the capacity to induce maturation of Type 2 alveolar cells and to stimulate production of surfactant by these cells. "Terpeneless" orange oil is a fraction of orange oil consisting predominantly of compounds with carbonyl or hydroxyl groups. The constituent or constituents responsible for the inhibitory effects observed is not known. The above studies are in an early phase of development and their ramifications remain to be determined.
Cross-cultural business ethics: Ethical beliefs difference between blacks and whites

This study investigates the differences in ethical beliefs between blacks and whites in the United States. Two hundred and thirty four white students and two hundred and fifty five black students were presented with two scenarios and given the Reidenbach-Robin instrument measuring their ethical reactions to the scenarios.
A new chromium carbide‐based tribological coating for use to 900 °C with particular reference to the Stirling engine

A new chromium carbide‐based coating (PS 200) is described. This coating is shown to have good friction and wear properties over a wide temperature range. A nickel alloy‐bonded chromium carbide coating was used as a baseline material for comparison with experimental formulated coatings. Coatings were plasma sprayed onto metal disks, then diamond ground to a thickness of 0.025 cm. Friction and wear were determined using a pin on disk tribometer at temperatures from 25 to 900 °C in hydrogen, helium, and air. Pin materials included several metallic alloys and silicon carbide. It was found that appropriate additions of metallic silver and of barium fluoride/calcium fluoride eutectic to the baseline carbide composition significantly reduced friction coefficients while preserving, and in some cases, even enhancing wear resistance. The results of this study demonstrate that PS 200 is a promising coating composition to consider for high‐temperature aerospace and advanced heat engine applications. The excellent re...
Polynomial asymptotes of the second kind

This note uses the analytic notion of asymptotic functions to study when a function is asymptotic to a polynomial function. Along with associated existence and uniqueness results, this kind of asymptotic behaviour is related to the type of asymptote that was recently defined in a more geometric way. Applications are given to rational functions and conics. Prerequisites include the division algorithm for polynomials with coefficients in the field of real numbers and elementary facts about limits from calculus. This note could be used as enrichment material in courses ranging from Calculus to Real Analysis to Abstract Algebra.
Der kolloide Aufbau der lebenden Substanz

Alte Sammlungspraparate von Kasein und Milchalbumin konnen durch Behandlung mit Alkali in einen kolloiden Zustand gebracht werden, der ihnen die gleichen „Oxydase“-Eigenschaften verleiht (der den Farbumschlag der Alphanaphthol-Paraphenylendiamin-Losung ebenso katalysiert), wie sie die Oxydasen haben, die aus pflanzlichem oder tierischem Material gewonnen wurden. Die Einwirkung von Temperatur, von Sauren und Alkalien, von Fermentgiften auf die Proteinat-Systeme fuhrt zu den gleichen Veranderungen wie bei den naturlichen Oxydasen.
The Neurobiology of Memory: Concepts, Findings, Trends

Part 1 The conceptual and experimental framework: some basic notions and their ontogenesis paradigms and research tools biological universals. Part 2 Windows to molecular and cellular mechanisms: cellular mnemonic devices detected in relatively simple nervous systems - the case of aplysia - the case of hermissenda a cellular mnemonic device in the mammalian brain - long-term potentiation a different approach - neurogenetics on the life span of molecules and memories. Part 3 Windows to the architecture of memory systems: on the complexity of internal representations in search of the topography of engrams fragments of engrams and of memory systems in the vertebrate brain the establishment of innately predisposed representations in sensitive periods - imprinting the establishment of innately predisposed representation in sensitive periods - bird song the generation of complex internal representations by sensory impressions and their use - lessons from monkeys and vision - amnesias, further clues to our own memories.
Size-based separation and collection of mouse pancreatic islets for functional analysis

Islet size has recently been demonstrated to be an important factor in determining human islet transplantation outcomes. In this study, a multi-layered microfluidic device was developed and quantified for size-based separation of a heterogeneous population of mouse islets. The device was fabricated using standard soft lithography and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Size-based separation was first demonstrated via injection of a heterogeneous population of glass beads between 50–300 µm in diameter which were separated into five sub-populations based on their diameter. Next, a heterogeneous population of mouse pancreatic islets, between 50–250 µm in diameter was separated into four sub-populations. Throughout this process the islets remained intact without any signs of damage, as indicated by cell viability staining. Islet glucose-stimulated insulin secretion of each sub-population of islets was also evaluated demonstrating that islets smaller than 150 µm have superior stimulation indexes (SI) compared to islets larger than 150 µm. In this study, we found that islets between 100 µm and 150 µm in diameter had the greatest SI value in a heterogeneous population of islets.
Degradation of ribonucleic acid in Candida lipolytica: Extraction of ribonucleic acid degrading enzymes†

We developed an efficient and simple method for RNase extraction from Candida lipolytica cells which consists of predrying the cells with solvents and incubating them for 8 to 15 hr at 37 to 45°C in a slightly acid buffer which contains EDTA or salts. This method is called Solvent Dehydration Buffer Extraction (SDBE) procedure. Predrying with acetone or ethanol, or by lyophilization, followed by washing with acetone or ethylacetate gives the most efficient RNase extraction. The yield and specific activity obtained by this extraction procedure are higher than by any other method examined. An apparent 1.5- to 2.0-fold activation of RNase occurred during the SDBE process. Activation of RNase in homogenates obtained by grinding fresh cells is also observed with EDTA or acetate buffer. The SDBE procedure works efficiently regardless of growth phase for Candida lipolytica, and works also with other Candida yeasts.
A DISAGGREGATE STORE-CHOICE MODEL OF SPATIAL DECISION-MAKING

Empirical testing of a decision model yields insights concerning the ways in which shoppers process information about grocery stores. Confirming hypotheses from the literature on consumer preferences, the results show that respondents are primarily concerned with quality and price of merchandise and that behavior is directly linked to derived utility measures. Clustering of the subjects discloses subtle differences among consumer groups in their approaches to evaluating the attributes of grocery stores.
Radiotherapy in the management of chemodectomas of the carotid body and glomus vagale.

Background. Because only limited data are available pertaining to radiotherapy for chemodectomas of the carotid body and glomus vagale, we reviewed our experience. Methods. Fifteen patients with 23 chemodectomas of either the carotid body or glomus vagale were treated with radiotherapy at the University of Florida between 1981 and 1995. Eighteen lesions were previously untreated. One patient had received prior radiotherapy at another institution and four patients had received prior surgery. Results. The local control rate at 10 years, calculated by the Kaplan-Meier product-limit method, was 96% for the overall group of 23 lesions and 100% for the subset of 22 lesions without prior radiotherapy. The 10-year cause-specific survival rate was 89% for all 15 patients and 100% for the 14 patients who had received no prior radiotherapy. No patient experienced a significant complication secondary to irradiation. Conclusions. Irradiation offers a high probability of tumor control with relatively minimal risks for patients with chemodectomas of the carotid body and glomus vagale.
Ponderosa pine snag densities following multiple fires in the Gila Wilderness, New Mexico

Abstract Fires create and consume snags (standing dead trees), an important structural and ecological component of ponderosa pine forests. The effects of repeated fires on snag densities in ponderosa pine forests of the southwestern USA have not been studied. Line intercept sampling was used to estimate snag densities in areas of the Gila Wilderness that had burned one to three times under Wildland Fire Use for Resource Benefit (WFU), a fire management policy implemented since 1974 aimed at restoring natural fire regimes. Twenty randomly located transects were measured in areas burned since 1946; six in once-burned areas, six in twice-burned areas and eight in thrice-burned areas. The mean density ± standard errors of large (>47.5 cm dbh) snags for areas that burned once, twice and thrice was 7.0 ± 2.7, 4.4 ± 1.1 and 4.1 ± 1.3 snags/ha, respectively. Differences in snag densities between once- and multiple-burned areas were significant (F-test; p
Comparative Monte Carlo efficiency by Monte Carlo analysis

We propose a modified power method for computing the subdominant eigenvalue ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{2}$ of a matrix or continuous operator. While useful both deterministically and stochastically, we focus on defining simple Monte Carlo methods for its application. The methods presented use random walkers of mixed signs to represent the subdominant eigenfunction. Accordingly, the methods must cancel these signs properly in order to sample this eigenfunction faithfully. We present a simple procedure to solve this sign problem and then test our Monte Carlo methods by computing ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{2}$ of various Markov chain transition matrices. As $|{\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{2}|$ of this matrix controls the rate at which Monte Carlo sampling relaxes to a stationary condition, its computation also enabled us to compare efficiencies of several Monte Carlo algorithms as applied to two quite different types of problems. We first computed ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{2}$ for several one- and two-dimensional Ising models, which have a discrete phase space, and compared the relative efficiencies of the Metropolis and heat-bath algorithms as functions of temperature and applied magnetic field. Next, we computed ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{2}$ for a model of an interacting gas trapped by a harmonic potential, which has a mutidimensional continuous phase space, and studied the efficiency of the Metropolis algorithm as a function of temperature and the maximum allowable step size $\ensuremath{\Delta}$. Based on the ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{2}$ criterion, we found for the Ising models that small lattices appear to give an adequate picture of comparative efficiency and that the heat-bath algorithm is more efficient than the Metropolis algorithm only at low temperatures where both algorithms are inefficient. For the harmonic trap problem, we found that the traditional rule of thumb of adjusting $\ensuremath{\Delta}$ so that the Metropolis acceptance rate is around 50% is often suboptimal. In general, as a function of temperature or $\ensuremath{\Delta}$, ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{2}$ for this model displayed trends defining optimal efficiency that the acceptance ratio does not. The cases studied also suggested that Monte Carlo simulations for a continuum model are likely more efficient than those for a discretized version of the model.
Effect of Women Science Career Role Models on Early Adolescents' Attitudes toward Scientists and Women in Science.

In order to change the attitude of early adolescent female and male students toward scientists and women in science, students in the middle school/junior high grades were exposed over a two months' period to women science career role models as part of their science instruction. This treatment positively affected the students' attitude toward scientists and toward women in science. It is suggested that teachers of science in the middle school/junior high should periodically bring community resource people who use science in their careers to the classroom to act as role models and that women should be included among this group so that the attitudes of both male and female students toward scientists and women in science might be improved.
Decrease in grief intensity for deceased twin and non-twin relatives: an evolutionary perspective

Abstract Based on evolutionary reasoning it was hypothesized that: 1. (1) dizygotic (DZ) twins would show greater reduction in grief intensity than monozygotic (MZ) twins for their deceased co-twins, 2. (2) female twins would show less reduction in grief intensity than male twins for their deceased co-twins, and 3. (3) twins would show less reduction in grief intensity for deceased co-twins than for other deceased relatives. Using a 7-point scale, 175 bereaved twins assessed their grief intensities as recalled 1–2 months after the loss and currently. Decrease in grief intensity was significantly greater for DZ twins than for MZ twins, as expected, although significant gender differences were not found. Participants also evidenced significantly less decrease in grief for deceased co-twins than for other deceased relatives. The implications of these findings for an evolutionary theory of bereavement are discussed.
Ciliary neurotrophic factor restores gallbladder contractility in leptin-resistant obese diabetic mice.

Background Obesity and diabetes are major risk factors for cholesterol gallstones, and the majority of obese people are leptin-resistant. Our previous work has shown that both leptin-deficient (Lepob) and leptin-resistant (Lepdb) obese diabetic mice have decreased in vitro gallbladder motility. Leptin administration to leptin-deficient (Lepob) animals restores gallbladder motility and reverses obesity and hyperinsulinemia. However, additional leptin in leptin-resistant obesity would not be expected to improve obesity-related parameters. Recent studies demonstrate that ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) reduces weight and hyperinsulinemia in leptin-resistant obesity. Our hypothesis is that CNFT would cause weight loss, lower blood sugars, and restore gallbladder contractility in leptin-resistant (Lepdb) mice. Materials and methods 20 C57b/6J and 20 Lepdb 8-week-old female mice were injected daily with either intraperitoneal saline or 0.3 μg/g CNTFAx15 for 17 days. Gallbladders were mounted in muscle baths and stimulated with acetylcholine, neuropeptide Y, and cholecystokinin. Gallbladder volume, serum glucose, insulin, liver weight, liver fat, and gallbladder responses were measured. Data were analyzed by ANOVA. Results Saline treated obese mice had greater body weight and obesity parameters, but decreased gallbladder contractility to neurotransmitters compared to saline treated lean mice. CNTF administration to obese mice decreased body weight and obesity parameters, and restored gallbladder contractility. CNTF treated lean animals had weight loss and decreased gallbladder contraction to acetylcholine and cholecystokinin compared to saline treated lean animals. Conclusions Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) causes 1) weight loss, 2) improvement of diabetes, and 3) alterations in gallbladder motility that is improved in obese mice but decreased in lean mice. We conclude that CNTF may improve gallbladder contractility in leptin-resistant obesity with diabetes.
Joint states of information from different probabilistic geo-profile reconstruction methods

Development of technologies for site characterization has grown at a faster pace compared to the development of decision-making methods required for the assimilation of inferences they generate. In the case of geophysical surveying, such dephase adds to the dependency on the use of expert's judgment in the interpretation of geophysical mappings. A systematic assimilation of this type of geo-surveying evidence is required, in particular for the integration of spatial geomorphological information (i.e., stratigraphy), characterized from different geophysical methods. This paper presents a methodology to address this challenge by the use of a probabilistic approach. A set of synthetic geophysical mappings are used to illustrate the applicability of the proposed methodology and its potential extrapolation to other scientific imaging disciplines.
The US launch of Al Jazeera English in Washington, DC: An analysis of American media coverage

Since its US launch in the Washington, DC, market in July 2009, Al Jazeera English (AJE), like other news organizations, has engaged in activities to shape and promote its journalistic values and practices for itself and the public. Using the theoretical framework of journalists as interpretive communities, this article examines American media coverage of AJE through its first seven months of broadcasting in the DC market. The study finds that AJE’s attempts to shape and modify its image for an American audience have been mostly successful, although limited. The analysis indicates a gradual move towards acceptance of the network in the USA by its journalistic peers (other American journalists).
Surveillance Bronchoscopy in Lung Transplant Recipients

Study objectives To establish whether a consensus exists among active transplant centers regarding the use and interpretation of information obtained by surveillance bronchoscopic lung biopsy (SBLB). Design Prospective standardized questionnaire answered via mail and telephone communications. Participants A five page, 18-question survey was sent to all lung transplant programs listed by the United Network of Organ Sharing in North America, as well as eight selected international programs. Ninety-one surveys were sent to 83 North American and eight international programs. Seventy-four programs (81%) responded. Seventeen programs (19%) were excluded secondary to inactivity. The remaining 57 programs (63%) were included in final data analysis. Interventions None. Results Sixty-eight percent (39/57) of the responding programs perform SBLBs. Ninety-two percent of the programs performing SBLBs do so within the first month, and 69% continue to do so on a regular basis. Sixty-nine percent (27/39) of programs performing SBLBs continue to do so after 1 year. Eighty-six percent (32/37) of respondents believe that SBLB impacts on patient management at least 10% of the time. Technically, 90% (35/39) take biopsy specimens from more than one lobe per SBLB session. Fifty-nine percent (23/39) took 6 to 10 biopsy specimens per session, 33% (13/39) took three to five biopsy specimens, and 7% (4/39) took >10 biopsy specimens per session. Eighty-six percent (32/37) of the responding centers reported treating asymptomatic rejection at grade 2A, while 14% (5/37) waited until histologic grade 3A before beginning treatment. Complications from SBLB were minimal with 95% of the programs performing SBLB. Conclusion Most active lung transplant centers perform SBLBs and do so on a regular basis. However, a wide range of opinion exists over the utility and technique of SBLB and the impact of its results influencing outcome in the lung transplant recipient. To answer these questions, a randomized multicentered trial or registry to determine the effect of SBLB on lung transplant recipient morbidity and mortality is required.
Aquaculture economics: An overview

The economics of aquaculture is reviewed on two levels: micro and macro. Micro-economics in aquaculture deals mainly with the management measures and elements affecting the efficiency of operation at the farm level, while macro-economics addresses the assessment of social benefits and costs of an aquaculture project. If aquaculture is socially beneficial but unattractive to private investors, public support on credit, marketing, extension, training, and research may be appropriate, especially during the early stages of development. The importance of economic analysis is emphasized since it provides a basis not only in the decision making of the individual farmer, but also in the formulation of aquaculture policies. Thus, greater attention should be focused on the improvement of economic data for analysis.
Absorption and line-broadening of 12C18O2 at 2.7 μm

Pressure broadening coefficients have been measured for 12C18O2 at 2.7 μm broadened by buffer gas species CO2, H2, He, O2, N2, Ar, and Xe. The results, expressed as self-broadening efficiencies, are compared with data for other transitions from 1.6 to 10.4 μm.
A physics-based link model for tree vibrations.

UNLABELLED PREMISE OF THE STUDY A new mathematical model for the vibration of trees is presented for developing a more thorough understanding of the underlying structure of the response. It may be used, for example, to assess the stability of a tree or to interpret experimental data. • METHODS A model is developed for the motion of the trunk and its N number of branches. The spatial distribution and initial orientation of the branches are left for the user to prescribe. A Newtonian analysis yields (N + 1) nonlinear, coupled differential equations that, when solved, describe the response of the trunk and each branch. After the model is linearized near equilibrium, the natural frequencies and vibration mode shapes are found. Closed-form expressions for the response (i.e., the actual time histories) are then obtained using modal analysis. Numerical solutions are also found; these are used to validate the analytical solutions and to serve as a means for considering large amplitude vibrations. • KEY RESULTS A new physics-based model is described. For small motion, the tree response may be constructed from the individual mode shapes and frequencies. Also demonstrated are the limitations of the linear theory as well as numerical solutions that can be obtained when trunk/branch amplitudes are large. • CONCLUSIONS The model presented here incorporates critical physics into a model that describes tree vibrations. It also sheds light on the underlying structure of the vibration response in terms of the modal nature of the solution. Limitations to the linear solutions are demonstrated and discussed.
Analysis of iDEN reverberation chamber for antenna measurements

This paper presents an analysis of a medium size reverberation chamber to be used for handset antenna efficiency measurements. The assessment is done by sampling the power received by a linearly polarized antenna at 14 locations in the working volume over one stirrer rotation. The general goal is to achieve a good correlation with anechoic chambers. Power uniformity and isotropy over the working volume are two of the main factors that affect this correlation. This paper addresses these issues with a simple structure of one stirrer and minimal loading.
Distribution of laminin in the developing peripheral nervous system of the chick

During axonal elongation in the developing peripheral nervous system, the temporal and spatial distribution of adhesive molecules in extracellular matrices and on neighboring cell surfaces may provide "choices" of pathways for growth cone migration. The extracellular matrix glycoprotein laminin appears in early embryos and mediates neuronal adhesion and neurite extension in vitro. In this study, we have examined the distribution of laminin at early periods of peripheral nervous system development. The distribution of laminin, demonstrated by immunostaining frozen sections of chick embryos, was compared to the distribution of fibronectin and of early peripheral neurites as revealed with an antibody to a neurofilament-associated protein. Laminin is present in the neural tube basement membrane, in early ganglia, and in developing dorsal and ventral roots, where the laminin staining pattern parallels that of neurofilaments. In early ganglia and nerve roots, laminin immunostaining defines loose "meshworks" rather than basement membranes, which seem to form slightly later in these structures. In contrast, fibronectin is absent in neural tube basement membrane, ganglia, and nerve roots, although it is present along neural crest migratory pathways and in intersomitic spaces. Our observations of laminin distribution are consistent with the possibility that laminin provides an adhesive surface for neurite extension at some stages of early peripheral nervous system development.
A seamless integration of algorithm animation into a visual programming language

Until now, only users of textual programming languages have enjoyed the fruits of algorithm animation. Users of visual programming languages (VPLs) have been deprived of the unique semantic insights algorithm animation offers, insights that would foster the understanding and debugging of visual programs. To begin solving this shortcoming, we have seamlessly integrated algorithm animation capabilities into Forms/3, a declarative VPL in which evaluation is the continuous maintenance of a network of one-way constraints. Our results show that a VPL that uses this constraint-based evaluation model can provide features not found in other algorithm animation systems.
Bit error rate estimate of finite length codes

A novel method of estimating the BER performance of finite length turbo codes in a binary AWGN channel is proposed. We consider the asymptotes of BER performance at low and high E/sub b//N/sub 0/ resulted from the small and large extrinsic values, respectively. The BER performance curve transitions between two asymptotes in the waterfall region, where the transition probability is approximately obtained by using the SNR transfer characteristic band of extrinsic values in the turbo decoding algorithm. Then, the BER estimate of finite length turbo codes is obtained by using two asymptotes at low and high E/sub b//N/sub 0/ and the transition probability between them.
A differential requirement for CD8+ donor cells in the augmentation of allograft survival by posttransplantation administration of donor spleen cells and donor bone marrow cells.

Background. Peritransplant treatment with antithymocyte serum (ATS) and posttransplantation administration of donor bone marrow or donor splenocytes results in extended skin allograft survival. In this study, we examined the molecular basis of the tolerance promoting effect of donor bone marrow (BMC) cells and splenocytes with emphasis on the role of CD8 expression on the donor cells.
Identifying symptom co-occurrence in persons with multiple sclerosis

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience a myriad of symptoms. There is some evidence that symptoms may co-occur, or happen in particular combinations. Yet most existing studies focus on single symptoms and practitioners make a priori care decisions based on individual symptoms alone. We examined symptom co-occurrences in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), collecting qualitative and quantitative data (mixed methods; N = 140). Content analysis revealed fatigue, heat intolerance, numbness, balance problems, and leg weakness as the most common symptoms. Factor analysis revealed the following factors: urinary, problems with balance, vision, heat, depression, and sleep. These preliminary findings indicate co-occurrence of several disabling symptoms from the overall self-report MS-Related Symptom Scale and 3-month recall. This information will guide health care professionals in developing targeted interventions and improve outcomes.
Examination of the superprotonic transition and dehydration behavior of Cs0.75Rb0.25H2PO4 by thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses

The dehydration and the superprotonic transition behavior of Cs_(0.75)Rb_(0.25)H_2PO_4 have been investigated via thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis. To enable measurements under the high water partial pressures required, a high humidity system (p_(H_2O) = 0.02–0.8 atm) capable of weight change detection at 0.7% resolution and thermal events with 0.01 °C resolution was assembled. It has been found that the superprotonic phase transition temperature of Cs_(0.75)Rb_(0.25)H_2PO_4 is 231 °C, slightly higher than that of CsH_2PO_4. In contrast, dehydration of Cs_(0.75)Rb_(0.25)H_2PO_4 under p_(H_2O) = 0.35 atm occurs at 265 °C, a somewhat lower temperature than that at which CsH_2PO_4 undergoes dehydration. Analysis of the temporal evolution of both transformations suggests a mechanism of continuous nucleation of the high temperature phase at a constant nucleation rate combined with three-dimensional growth.
“If I Don’t Use the Word, I Shouldn’t Have to Hear it” The Surfacing of Racial Tensions in a Leadership Preparation Classroom

This case outlines a dilemma encountered by an assistant professor and graduate teaching assistant teaching within an educational leadership preparation program. The case offers a detailed illustration of a race-related conflict occurring in a course focused on preparing school leaders to address issues of social justice within diverse settings. Addressing race-related issues within the classroom are of the utmost importance for today’s leadership preparation programs, as the influx of traditionally marginalized populations within public schools continues to rapidly increase. Implications for the development of school leaders include the purposeful examination of issues related to race, diversity, social justice, positionality, and the facilitation of critically-oriented conversations.
A spatially explicit model of patchy stomatal responses to humidity

Stomata of leaves can exhibit either temporally stable, spatially homogeneous behaviour or complex spatial and temporal dynamics, depending on environmental and physiological conditions. To test the ability of accepted physiological mechanisms to describe these patterns, we developed a simple, spatially explicit model of stomatal responses to humidity that incorporated hydraulic interactions among stomata. Model results showed qualitative agreement with experimental evidence for a number of phenomena: (1) at high humidities, whole-leaf steady-state conductance is a monotonic function of humidity; (2) the initial stomatal response following a perturbation in humidity is in the direction opposite to the final response, and (3) spatial dynamics include patch formation and self-organization similar to that observed in actual leaves. These comparisons do not eliminate other explanations, but do suggest that novel mechanisms need not be invoked to explain the diversity of spatial and temporal patterns of stomatal behaviour in leaves.
Control of Instantaneously Coupled Systems applied to humanoid walking

This paper presents an optimal controller for an Instantaneously Coupled System (ICS) which was designed by coordinating multiple lower-dimensional optimal controllers. We augmented subsystems of the ICS with coordination variables, and then used value functions to coordinate the augmented subsystems by managing tradeoffs of the coordination variables. We apply this method to humanoid walking and present a controller for a 3D simulation that uses multiple coordinated policies generated using Dynamic Programming. Additionally, we present simulated walking perturbation experiments as well as standing balance results from a force-controlled humanoid robot.
Thermal Coefficients of the Optical Path Length and Refractive Index in YAG.

The changes in optical path length and refractive index with temperature are measured at 633 nm in undoped YAG in the 85–285 K temperature range. At 100 K the change in optical path length with temperature is only ∼25% of its value at 300 K; the change of refractive index with temperature is also substantially reduced at low temperatures.
Obstructive Lung Disease from Conception to Old Age Differences in the Treatment of Adults and Children with Asthma

Achieving asthma control is the focus of asthma management. Inhaled corticosteroids are the most effective treatment for asthma in children and adults, with no evidence that the magnitude of benefit differs between adults and school-aged children. Leukotriene inhibitors are more widely used in children than in adults. This may be because provoking stimuli, such as environmental allergens and frequent exercise, are more important asthma triggers in children or because parental concerns about the side effects of treatment with ICS. Inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting inhaled beta(2)-agonist combinations may not be as effective in children as in they are adults in improving asthma control and reducing asthma exacerbations.
Disseminating end-of-life education to cancer centers: overview of program and of evaluation.

Background. Systematic provision of compassionate end-of-life (EOL) care requires strategic training of health professionals. Disseminating EOL Education to Cancer Centers (DELEtCC) targeted education of interdisciplinary institutional teams.Methods. Competitively-selected two-person teams participated in a national three-day EOL conference. Nationally recognized faculty created and presented the curriculum. Project faculty supported teams over 18 months as they implemented EOL goals. Conference evaluations were very positive.Results. Independent participant and administrative evaluations reported successful implementation of goals aimed an improving EOL care.Conclusions. DELEtCC disseminated education representing best EOL practices, and participants used this knowledge to create and implement goals aimed at improving EOL care.
Factors associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation following coronary artery bypass surgery.

Study objectives To identify the typical duration ofpostoperative mechanical ventilation following coronary artery bypassgraft surgery (CABG), and to identify risk factors for prolongedpostoperative ventilation. Design Retrospective studyof 4,863 consecutive patients using univariate and multivariatesurvival analysis to identify independent risk factors. Setting Saint Thomas Hospital, Nashville, TN, a 575-bed, academically affiliated, regional referral hospital specializing incardiovascular diseases. Patients All patientsundergoing CABG in our hospital from January 1, 1996, to December 31,1997. Interventions None. Measurements andresults Duration of mechanical ventilation and mortality weremeasured. More than 94% of the patients were extubated in the first 3days following surgery, 4% more were extubated from postoperative days4 to 14, and almost 2% were receiving ventilation for > 14 days. Those risk factors that reflect preoperative medical instability, especially cardiac or respiratory insufficiency, were associated withthe highest incidence of prolonged postoperative mechanical ventilationand for operative mortality. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons-predictedmortality estimate was the best single independent predictor forprolonged postoperative ventilation. Conclusions Typically, patients can be expected to be extubated within 3 days after, CABG. Certain preoperative comorbidities, especially preoperativecardiac or respiratory instability, are predictive of prolongedpostoperative mechanical ventilation.
Exact radiation for dipoles on metallic spheroids at the interface between isorefractive half-spaces

Oblate and prolate metallic spheroids located at the interface between isorefractive half-spaces are considered. The electromagnetic fields produced by electric and magnetic dipoles located on the symmetry axis of the structure are determined exactly. Particular cases are discussed, and numerical results are presented for far fields and surface currents.
Investigating Deployment Strategies for Multi-radio Multi-channel Residential Wireless Mesh Networks

Multi-radio multi-channel Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs) are being increasingly deployed for broadband provision in enterprise, community, metropolitan and rural areas, due to their lower cost and faster deployment compared to the traditional wired broadband networks. In comparison with the former single-radio WMNs, multi-radio multi-channel WMNs can provide higher capacity and more fine-grained interference management. In this paper, we compare the performance of Wireless Mesh Networks with four different backhaul configurations (with different number of radios, different antenna types and different number of parallel backhauls, etc.) for the deployments in the residential areas. Simulation results show that the interference among client access cells makes the access channel the bottleneck of the end-to-end performance no matter what backhaul configuration is used, and tuning the transmission power of the access channel radio can improve the end-to-end performance substantially. We also find that the multi-radio backhaul WMNs do not have the serious performance unfairness among clients with different hop counts from the gateways as the single-radio backhaul WMNs have.
Ab initio prediction of the barrier height for abstraction of hydrogen from H2O2 by ClO radical

The reaction of ClO radicals with H2O2 has been investigated by ab initio molecular orbital theory with a variety of basis sets and levels of correlation. At the QCISD(T)/6-311 + + G(2df,2p) level of theory the heat of reaction for ClO + H2O2 is -8·4 ± 2 kcal mol-1 and the classical barrier height is 7·6 ± 2 kcal mol-1.