cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Direct and semi-direct impacts of absorbing biomass burning aerosol on the climate of southern Africa: a Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory GCM sensitivity study

Abstract. Tropospheric aerosols emitted from biomass burning reduce solar radiation at the surface and locally heat the atmosphere. Equilibrium simulations using an atmospheric general circulation model (GFDL AGCM) indicate that strong atmospheric absorption from these particles can cool the surface and increase upward motion and low-level convergence over southern Africa during the dry season. These changes increase sea level pressure over land in the biomass burning region and spin-up the hydrologic cycle by increasing clouds, atmospheric water vapor, and, to a lesser extent, precipitation. Cloud increases serve to reinforce the surface radiative cooling tendency of the aerosol. Conversely, if the climate over southern Africa were hypothetically forced by high loadings of scattering aerosol, then the change in the low-level circulation and increased subsidence would serve to decrease clouds, precipitation, and atmospheric water vapor. Surface cooling associated with scattering-only aerosols is mitigated by warming from cloud decreases. The direct and semi-direct climate impacts of biomass burning aerosol over southern Africa are sensitive to the total amount of aerosol absorption and how clouds change in response to the aerosol-induced heating of the atmosphere.
Effects of vertebrate herbivores and shrub characteristics on arthropod assemblages in a northern Arizona forest ecosystem

Large herbivores have potential to affect invertebrate community structure through numerous processes, but little work has been done to evaluate the relative importance of direct and indirect factors. In this study, we measured arthropod community assemblages on Ceanothus fendleri A. Gray (Fendler’s ceanothus) plants that were growing inside and outside of 4-m 2 exclosures. We used univariate analyses and structural equation modeling (SEM) to evaluate relationships within this herbivore–plant– arthropod system in ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Laws.) forests of northern Arizona, USA. Results showed that individual arthropod abundance, family diversity, family richness, and functional group richness were significantly greater on plots where C. fendleri plants were protected from large ungulate herbivores (e.g., mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni)) than on unprotected plots in each of the three study years. Results also indicated the following: (1) arthropod abundance was significantly greater on protected plants than unprotected plants; (2) rarefaction curves suggested arthropod family richness was similar between protected and unprotected plants in two of the three years when scaled by number of individuals but the estimated total richness was consistently higher on protected plants; (3) arthropod abundance was directly affected by protection from herbivores, plant stem length, and number of flowers; (4) arthropod family richness was related to the number of individuals collected and affected by stem length. Results from this study illustrate that arthropod communities are directly affected by foraging vertebrate herbivores as well as indirectly affected through complex plant-mediated factors in this model system. Protection of preferred forage plants such as C. fendleri from ungulate herbivores can potentially increase diversity of arthropod assemblages in these forests, help conserve biological diversity, and enhance ecosystem restoration efforts.
Changeling Bottom: Speech prefixes, acting, and character in A Midsummer Night's Dream

While Nick Bottom, in exception to the current scholarly consensus about early modern “character”, continues to be described in terms that suggest a fixed identity, his speech prefixes tell another story. Called “Bottom” in speech prefixes since the eighteenth century, in the speech prefixes of the earliest printed texts Bottom is identified by three different names: Bottom, Pyramus, and Clown. Bottom's three names outline a tension between professional/trade, professional/theatrical, and class roles. As he negotiates among these roles and names, Bottom becomes not a stable “character” but a figure in whom changefulness and permanence are at odds: a “changeling Proteus”, in Joseph Roach's formulation, an actor.
Incremental regular inference

In this paper, we extend the characterization of the search space of regular inference [DMV94] to sequential presentations of learning data. We propose the RPNI2 algorithm, an incremental extension of the RPNI algorithm. We study the convergence and complexities of both algorithms from a theoretical and practical point of view. These results are assessed on the Feldman task.
Modulation of sensory intake in autistic children: cardiovascular and behavioral indices.

Abstract Cardiovascular correlates of attention were studied in 14 autistic children and 16 normal, healthy boys during resting, social interaction, and a reaction-time task. The autistic children had elevated heart rate, indicating increased autonomic nervous system activity, and failed to show cardiovascular changes in sensory intake. The findings are considered to indicate a heightened state of sensory rejection in autism.
Nickel-alloyed tin-lead eutectic solder for surface mount technology

A new ternary solder alloy of tin-lead-nickel was developed for solder joints. It has an optimum composition range of (60–65)% Sn, (35–40)% Pb, (0.5–1.0)% Ni by weight. The alloy exhibits a higher strength and longer fatigue life than the pure 63% Sn−37% Pb eutectic. Melting point, wettability, and fatigue life were the key properties used to determine this composition. In particular, the melting point of the alloyed eutectic solder did not change for rapidly solidified samples when up to 2 wt. % Ni was added. Instead of modifying the solution melting temperature, the majority of the Ni precipitated out as a fine dispersion of Ni3Sn4. These Ni3Sn4 particles help to strengthen the solder matrix. Reflow experiments on rapidly solidified material showed minimal coarsening and agglomeration of the Ni3Sn4 particles for up to 5 min of reflow cycles. The wettability of the solder, however, decreased significantly for contents of Ni above 1.5%. Low cycle fatigue tests show that for a solder with 0.5% Ni, the fatigue life was about twice as long as that of standard eutectic solder. Suggested processing for the alloy is rapid solidification to form the alloy powder which is incorporated into a reflowable paste.
The Radiologist As Clinical Activist: A Time To Focus Outward

Radiology has witnessed dramatic in its imaging technology and in the infomation management and image management technology to support it. These have resulted to some extent in a preoccupation of the field with all of its technology, and with its internal operations. Yet the practice of medicine has undergone considerable change over this same period, precipitated to some extent by the high cost of the technology. This, among other factors, has brought about increased need for the radiologist to become more clinically active in helping to determine the rational use of imaging procedures and to aid in the interpretation of them. A re-examination of the radiologic process reveals many levels in whicn closer coupling between clinical and radiologic activities would be beneficial. A variety of computer tools can be useful in facilitating this. In particular, as guidelines and protocols for clinical care become increasingly integrated into practice, research and development focused in this area by radiologists and their biostatistical and decision Science collaborators should be of high priority.
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide and Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate-Linked Succinic Semialdehyde Dehydrogenases in a Pseudomonas Species

A Pseudomonas species grown on polyamines was found to have the following enzymes that can dehydrogenate succinic semialdehyde: a constitutive nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP)-linked dehydrogenase, an inducible NAD-linked dehydrogenase specific for succinic semialdehyde (EC 1.2.lb), and more than one inducible NAD-linked aminoaldehyde dehydrogenase which can act on succinic semialdehyde, 3-aminopropanal, and 4-aminobutanal. These enzymes have been separated from each other by ammonium sulfate precipitation, column chromatography on diethylaminoethyl-Sephadex, and electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel. The level of NAD-linked succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase in cells grown on various C and N sources has been determined and found to be as expected of an inducible enzyme with, however, two slight variations: the basal level of the enzyme in cells grown on Casamino Acids is relatively high and readily detectable, and the level of this enzyme is the same when the cells are grown on γ-aminobutyrate with or without glucose and is, therefore, not subject to the classical glucose effect.
A Tale of Two Conferences

For the 2008 ICSE and Agile conferences, The magazine's editor in chief prepared a flash poll to gauge key perceptions regarding the separation between software engineering research and software development practice. The results for each conference were interesting, but the differences between the two groups were especially revealing.
Cellulose graft copolymers. III. Effects of oxygen on graft copolymerization of ethyl acrylate with γ‐irradiated cellulose

The effects of oxygen on graft copolymerization of ethyl acrylate from methanol–water systems with γ-irradiated fibrous cotton cellulose were investigated by electron spin resonance spectroscopy and by the formation of cellulose–poly(ethyl acrylate) copolymer. The concentrations of free radicals in cellulose irradiated dry in an atmosphere of nitrogen at 25°C decreased during postirradiation storage in nitrogen or oxygen. The concentration of free radicals in the irradiated cellulose, moisture regain of the irradiated cellulose, and formation of cellulose–poly(ethyl acrylate) copolymer decreased with increase in temperature and time of postirradiation storage and to a greater extent when stored in oxygen rather than in nitrogen. From the decrease in moisture regain of irradiated cellulose during postirradiation storage, it was concluded that increased intermolecular bonding occurred in irradiated cellulose during storage in both nitrogen and oxygen atmospheres. When irradiated celluloses which had been stored in either oxygen or nitrogen were copolymerized with ethyl acrylate at 60°C, less formation of copolymer was observed than when the copolymerization reactions were conducted at 25°C. It was concluded that there was no evidence for the formation or decomposition of cellulose peroxides during these reactions and that formation of graft copolymer depended primarily on the concentration of free radicals in the irradiated cellulose at the time of copolymerization.
Family Migration and Labor Force Outcomes: Sex Differences in Occupational Context

Empirical analyses of sex differences in the career consequences of family migration have focused on adjudicating between the human capital and the gender-role explanations but have ignored the potential infl uence of gender inequality in the structure of the labor market. In this paper we estimate conditional difference-in-difference models with individual-, family- and occupation-level data to test a structural explanation that attributes sex differences in the returns to family migration to occupational sex segregation. Despite using measures of relevant occupational characteristics and occupational fi xed effects, our results do not support the structural explanation. Instead, the results add to the body of empirical evidence that is consistent with the gender-role explanation of sex differences in the experience of family migration.
19.2: Distinguished Paper: Characterization of Electron‐Hole Pair Migration and Trapping in Rare Earth Doped YBO3 under Vacuum Ultraviolet Excitation

We have measured host-to-activator energy transfer efficiencies in rare-earth doped YBO3 under vacuum ultraviolet excitation. From these data, relative electron-hole (e-h) pair trapping rate constants can be estimated. Our analysis suggests a correlation between e-h trapping efficiency and the energy of activator electronic states relative to the host conduction band.
Data evaluation and fitting of electron impact ionization cross sections of Ar, Cl, F, N2, O2, Cl2, F2 and their ions for plasma modeling

The still growing influence of the plasma technologies on the world's largest manufacturing industries, puts new requirements on the quality of atomic data supplied. Maybe more than ever the field of plasma modeling is in need of reliable electron impact ionization cross sections data. This work aims to provide accurate analytical fits for the most common atomic species found in plasmas, such as Argon and halogen elements like Fluorine and Chlorine, etc. The first attempts for the analytical fitting of the relevant molecular species are also made. The standard BELI formula is revisited, however other analytical expressions are suggested, too, for approximating single-ionization cross sections. In the evaluation process the preference is given to experimental data up to date covering the whole range in energies. The question of the factors effecting the accuracy of the fits is addressed as well.
Studies on the Characterization of the Subtype(S) of Muscarinic Receptor Involved in Prostacyclin Synthesis in Rabbit Cardiomyocytes

AbstractThe present study was conducted to localize and characterize the subtype(s) of muscarinic receptor involved in prostacyclin (PGI2) production elicited by the cholinergic transmitter acetylcholine (ACh) in various cell types in the rabbit heart. ACh increased PGI2 synthesis measured as 6-keto-PGF1α, in cultured coronary endothelial cells and freshly dissociated ventricular myocytes in a dose dependent manner but not in cultured coronary smooth muscle cells of rabbit heart. McN-A-343, a partially selective M1 muscarinic ACh receptor (mAChR) agonist, did not alter 6-keto-PGF1α synthesis in these cell types. ACh induced 6-keto-PGF1α synthesis in coronary endothelial cells and ventricular myocytes was not altered by a low concentration (10−8 M) of pirenzipine, an M1 mAChR antagonist but was reduced by a higher concentration (10−6 M). In coronary endothelial cells ACh induced 6-keto-PGF1α production was reduced by hexahydro-sila-difendial (HHSiD), an M3 mAChR antagonist, and in ventricular myocytes by b...
The application of motivational theory to cardiovascular risk reduction

The level of motivation sustained by an individual has been identified as a primary predictor of success in sustained cardiovascular risk factor modification efforts. This article reviews the primary motivational theories that have been used to explain and predict cardiovascular risk reduction. Specifically, the application of the Health Belief Model, Health Promotion Model, Theory of Reasoned Action, Theory of Planned Behavior and Self-efficacy Theory to the initiation and maintenance of cardiovascular health behavior is addressed. The implication of these theories for the development of nursing interventions as well as new directions for nursing research and practice in the study of individual motivation in health behavior change are discussed.
Coping with complex boundaries

There are many applications in materials science involving boundary value problems in which the boundaries have complicated shapes. Examples include the computation of the capacity and translational friction coefficients of objects having general shape, the discharge of Poiseuille flow through a pipe of arbitrary cross section, and the calculation of “virial coefficients” which describe the leading order concentration dependence of the effective material properties of suspensions or composites containing a small concentration of complex shaped particles. Moreover, the scattering of small objects by electromagnetic (radar, visible light) and pressure (acoustic) waves involves mathematical problems identical to the virial coefficient calculations which have many practical applications corresponding to cases where the scattering particles have elaborate structure (e.g., snow flakes). Direct analytical approaches based on traditional differential equations methods are often not effective in dealing with this class of problems. On April 15, 1994 Jack F. Douglas from National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) presented a different approach based on recasting this kind of boundary value problem in terms of an averaging over random walk paths. He showed through a sequence of examples how this point of view leads to viable numerical and analytical treatment of complex boundaries. He described recent work and presented open problems.
Data-driven constructive induction in AQ17-PRE: A method and experiments

A method is presented for constructive induction, in which new attributes are constructed as various functions of original attributes. Such a method is called data-driven constructive induction, because new attributes are derived from an analysis of the data (examples) rather than the generated rules. Attribute construction and rule generation are repeated until a termination condition, such as the satisfaction of a rule quality measure, is met. The first step of this method, the generation of new attributes, has been implemented in AQ17-PRE. Initial experiments with AQ17-PRE have shown that it leads to an improvement of the learned rules in terms of both their simplicity and their accuracy on testing examples. >
A Den-centered Analysis of Swift Fox (Vulpes velox) Habitat Characteristics in Northeastern New Mexico

Abstract Twenty-one swift fox (Vulpes velox) den sites were examined in northeastern New Mexico and compared to 50 random sites across public and private land, and to 50 random sites on public land only, to determine landscape level habitat characteristics in 1997–1998. Den sites were located by monitoring of radio-collared foxes and by systematic field surveys. We used Geographic Information System coverages to describe den site characteristics, including distances to nearest road, prairie dog town, residential structure and agricultural land; road density, residential density and percent agricultural land within 1 and 2 km of the den site or random site; and soil series, United States Department of Agriculture texture class, unified texture class, slope and elevational index at the den site or random site. Den sites had higher values than both types of random sites for road density within 1 km, road density within 2 km and elevation index; and lower values for distance to prairie dog town, residential d...
Fluorimetric method for the determination of phenylalanine in serum

Abstract The fluorimetric determination of phenylalanine is based on the enhancement of the fluorescence of a phenylalanine-ninhydrin reaction product by a peptide, leucylalaninc. The method allows phenylalanine to be measured quantitatively in the presence or absence of other amino acids at a final concentration of 10 −7 M. Under the conditions described only 5 μL of normal serum is required for analysis. The method has been applied to the determination of phenylalanine serum levels in adult, pediatric, and phenylketonuric patients. The values found are in good agreement with those reported in the literature using other methods.
Who is a 'Natural Born' Citizen? We’ll Know When Canadian Runs for President

In this paper I argue that there is a class of foreign born citizens who must be considered "natural born" for the purposes of the presidential eligibility requirements under Article II of the United State Constitution.
Closer Cooperation between Research and Extension

Lack of adequate cooperation between research and extension activities in agricultural economics has long been a problem. Evolution from separate physical location and separate administration, to the same physical location and separate administration, to combined location and administration has improved program coordination. However, many problems ranging from personality conflicts, inadequate communication, and basic lack of understanding still plague the profession. Joint appointments, combined funding, and a better understanding of the problem itself may lead to more effective program performance in agricultural economics research and extension.
Oviposition and Nymphal Survival of the Hawthorn Lace Bug (Hemiptera: Tingidae) on Selected Species of Cotoneaster (Rosaceae)

Oviposition and nymphal development of the hawthorn lace bug, Corythucha cydoniae (Fitch), were evaluated on 13 species or cultivars of Cotoneaster. C. cydoniae had high oviposition and nymphal survival on glabrous foliage of C. dammeri ‘Royal Beauty’ C. K. Schneid. Low oviposition and nymphal survival occurred on pubescent foliage of C. lacteus W. W. Sm. Leaf pubescence seemed to have an inhibitory effect on oviposition and nymphal survival. Oviposition was not affected by application of neem seed extract to the foliage.
The Expressions of Complicated Types and Forms of Conflict in Lord of the Flies

Conflict in Lord of the Flies find all expressions in types and forms,and the mental conflict is highlighted.These contribute to the richness of themes and variety of significance of this novel.
High-Molecular-Weight Kininogen Is Exclusively Membrane Bound on Endothelial Cells to Influence Activation of Vascular Endothelium

An important biologic function of high-molecular-weight kininogen (HK) is to deliver bradykinin (BK) to its cellular receptors. Internalization and degradation of HK may provide a mechanism by which endothelial cells modulate the production of BK and control its activities. Therefore, we investigated the binding and subsequent distribution of biotinylated-HK (biotin-HK) associated with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). HUVEC bound 3 to 4 times more HK and with greater avidity at 1 to 3 hours at 37 degrees C than at 4 degrees C (Bmax = 1.0 +/- 0.02 x 10(7) molecules/cell, kd = 7 +/- 3 nmol/L v Bmax = 2.6 +/- 0.2 x 10(6) molecules/cell, kd = 46 +/- 8 nmol/L). However, there was no evidence that the difference was caused by internalization of HK at the higher temperature. First, the same amount of biotin-HK was associated with nonpermeabilized and permeabilized HUVEC using buffers containing 20 to 50 mumol/L zinc ion in the absence or presence of 2 mmol/L calcium ion. Second, binding of biotin-HK to HUVEC was approximately 92% reversible at 1 hour when the cells were maintained at both 37 degrees C and 4 degrees C. Third, neither chloroquine nor primaquine altered the amount of biotin-HK bound to HUVEC. Fourth, biotin-HK bound to HUVEC was almost completely removed by pronase. Fifth, the nonpermeable dye, crystal violet, almost completely quenched the fluorescence signal emitted by HUVEC-associated fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) HK. Finally, the localization of HUVEC-bound FITC-HK was restricted to the membrane as shown by laser scanning confocal microscopy. The expression of HK binding sites had an absolute requirement for metabolic energy, but was not dependent on new protein synthesis. Membrane-bound HK contributed to the anticoagulant nature of endothelial cells by blocking human alpha-thrombin binding and its resultant induction of prostacyclin formation. These studies indicate that HK is not internalized by HUVEC, but remains primarily on cell surfaces to be accessible for BK liberation and to modulate the binding and actions of alpha-thrombin.
Alcohol Use Before and During Pregnancy

A woman’s excessive drinking during pregnancy can cause structural and behavioral abnormalities in her offspring. However, population-based data concerning maternal drinking behaviors are sparse. To describe drinking prevalences and patterns, we analyzed self-reported data from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring Systems of Maine, Michigan, Oklahoma, and West Virginia. During 1988 and 1989, 6,319 mothers were surveyed two to six months after delivery; state-specific response rates ranged from 65.6% to 83.5%. We applied statistical weights to the sample from each state; thus, the results estimate state-specific prevalences. State-specific prevalences of drinking during the last three months of pregnancy were low: 6.8% to 15.1% of mothers reported light drinking (one to six drinks per week), 0.06% to 0.30% reported moderate drinking (seven to 13 drinks per week), and 0.03% to 0.13% reported heavy drinking (14 or more drinks per week). In contrast, prevalences of drinking during the three months before pregnancy were much higher: the range was 31.9% to 53.8% for light drinking, 1.6% to 3.0% for moderate drinking, and 0.6% to 1.3% for heavy drinking. State-specific prevalences of mothers who reported receiving prenatal counseling about alcohol’s effects ranged from 66.3% to 75.0%. More heavy drinkers than light drinkers received counseling. These findings indicate that moderate and heavy drinking during late pregnancy is relatively rare. However, all levels of drinking near the time of conception are much higher, and these results suggest the need for research into methods of reducing drinking before pregnancy.
Surgical Management of Major Renal Trauma: A Review of 102 Cases Treated by Conservative Surgery

AbstractA review is presented of 102 patients with significant renal trauma seen in the last 5 years. All patients underwent exploratory laparotomy for abdominal trauma and had associated urologic injuries, which were managed by conservative surgery. Forty-eight patients had non-expanding retroperitoneal hematoma and were treated expectantly. Nine patients needed exploration and drainage only, while 18 had some form of Tenorrhaphy. Four patients underwent repairs of renal pelvic injuries, 12 underwent partial nephrectomy and 11 underwent repairs of renal pedicle injuries. A conservative approach to renal trauma is emphasized.
More than book reading: A case study on Liren Rural Library:

This essay looks at Liren Rural Library, a grassroots educational project, in order to shed light on the current situation of civil society organizations in China. With a detailed description of ho...
New Directions for Auditory Training: Introduction

Purpose The purpose of this research forum article is to provide an overview of a collection of invited articles on contemporary issues in auditory training.
Modular Cross-Linking of Gelatin-Based Thiol-Norbornene Hydrogels for in Vitro 3D Culture of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells.

Gelatin-based hydrogels are increasingly used to promote cell fate processes in 3D. Here, we report the use of orthogonal thiol–norbornene photochemistry to prepare modularly cross-linked gelatin-based hydrogels for studying the influence of independent matrix properties on hepatocellular carcinoma cell fate in vitro. In addition to demonstrating the ability to independently tune the mechanical and biological properties of modular gelatin–norbornene (GelNB) hydrogels, we also determined that network cross-linking density plays a key role in the mechanisms of proteolytic gel degradation. During in vitro degradation studies, GelNB hydrogels with lower cross-linking density degraded faster and followed a surface erosion mechanism, whereas dense GelNB hydrogels degraded in a bulk degradation mechanism. Hepatocellular carcinoma cells, Huh7, were encapsulated and grown in GelNB hydrogels with modularly tuned stiffness, bioactive motifs, and heparin content. We systematically evaluated the effect of matrix prope...
Rigid Origami via Optical Programming and Deferred Self-Folding of a Two-Stage Photopolymer.

We demonstrate the formation of shape-programmed, glassy origami structures using a single-layer photopolymer with two mechanically distinct phases. The latent origami pattern consisting of rigid, high cross-link density panels and flexible, low cross-link density creases is fabricated using a series of photomask exposures. Strong optical absorption of the polymer formulation creates depth-wise gradients in the cross-link density of the creases, enforcing directed folding which enables programming of both mountain and valley folds within the same sheet. These multiple photomask patterns can be sequentially applied because the sheet remains flat until immersed into a photopolymerizable monomer solution that differentially swells the polymer to fold and form the origami structure. After folding, a uniform photoexposure polymerizes the absorbed solution, permanently fixing the shape of the folded structure while simultaneously increasing the modulus of the folds. This approach creates sharp folds by mimickin...
Self-Monitoring Interventions for Students With EBD: Applying UDL to a Research-Based Practice:

Students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) have unique academic and behavioral needs that require the use of evidence-based practices. One way that teachers can support students with EB...
Optical losses of photovoltaic modules due to mineral dust deposition: Experimental measurements and theoretical modeling

Abstract Deposition of particles on photovoltaic (PV) modules has the potential to increase costs of solar energy production and maintenance and to affect grid-connected energy forecasting. Particles deposited on PV modules can reduce the optical transmission to the PV semiconductor significantly ( > 50 % ) due to absorption and scattering. Although there are many previous studies of PV module efficiency losses with respect to exposure time, angle tilt of the PV module, and other environmental factors, there has been little study of PV module efficiency losses with respect to the optical characteristics of the deposited particles (e.g., refractive index, optical depth). Here, we deposited two types of dust onto glass slides, optically absorbing dust and optically non-absorbing dust. We systematically increased the mass per unit area deposited onto the glass slides and measured the optical depth and total transmission (i.e., direct plus diffuse light) using a spectrophotometer with an integrating sphere detector system. Our experimental measurements were compared with a two-stream radiative transfer model, and with Monte Carlo radiative transfer calculations, yielding good agreement for both absorbing and non-absorbing dust. Our results indicate that total transmission decreases approximately linearly as a function of dust mass deposited per unit area, with the slope being highly sensitive to the absorptivity of the dust. The obtained results and models used in this study can be used in conjunction with deposition models to predict the degradation of the optical transmission of PV modules with respect to mass per unit area dust loading.
Vacuum Distillation and Freeze Drying

Vacuum distillation is based on the fact that under vacuum the boiling point of the materials is lower than at normal atmospheric pressure. The use of vacuum distillation for distilling off solvents is required where elevated temperatures would destroy the resolved components. Working with some biologically active materials which are dissolved in water, the solution can be concentrated using vacuum distillation at 20° or 30°C without inactivating the preparation if the pressure is reduced to 14 or 16 mm Hg. The complete removal of water by vacuum distillation, however, damages the biologic potency of many preparations. Some protein-containing solutions foam considerably, and in these cases vacuum distillation should be avoided. Frequently, the freeze drying (lyophilization) procedure gives much better results.
The Influence of Nuclear Energy on Transportation Fuels

Nuclear reactions are a potentially unlimited source of energy for the future. However, nuclear energy is not in a form easily used in transportation.
Towards competence in autonomous agents

My thesis aims to contribute towards building autonomous agents that are able to develop what White (1959) called competency over their environment—agents that are able to achieve mastery over their domain and are able to solve new problems as they arise using the knowledge and skills they acquired in the past. While the field of machine learning has made much progress in solving individual, isolated problems, progress has been slow in developing agents that are able to interact effectively with their environment and flexibly deal with new tasks. There is still a large gap between the abilities of humans in this respect and the current capabilities of autonomous agents. My thesis will propose a number of methods for building competence in autonomous agents using the reinforcement learning (RL) framework, a computational approach to learning from interaction that has proved effective in certain types of problems (Sutton & Barto 1998). I expect that the methods I propose will extend the capabilities of RL agents in ways that are more than incremental, essentially allowing an autonomous agent to operate at a qualitatively different level.
Diabetes und herztransplantation

Diabetes is frequently encountered in patients presenting with end-stage heart failure to be listed for transplantation. While diabetes used to be a contra-indication for heart transplantation, careful preoperative evaluation and individualized postoperative medication lead to long-term outcome after heart transplantation equal to non-diabetic patients. About 1/3 of transplanted patients develop a post-transplant diabetes. Several risk factors have been identified leading to this condition. Mostly, post-transplant diabetes is of temporary nature. Several studies have shown no impact of diabetes on the incidence of rejection, malignancies, and transplant vasculopathy. However, glucose intolerance must be taken into consideration when planing immunosuppressive therapy since different medications have distinct impact on glucose metabolism after transplant. A multidisciplinary team allows for closely monitoring and treating patients with diabetes after heart transplant.
Behavior Therapy with Children

Child behavior therapy has its historical roots in the work of John Watson and the behavioral psychology movement of the early twentieth century, but was not applied generally to children until the late 1960s with the applications of B. F. Skinner's work. Based upon principles of classical, operant, and social learning theories, behavior therapy with children is characterized by an adherence to scientific method and an emphasis upon measurable treatment goals. This article describes various applications of contemporary behavior therapy to the treatment of common emotional and behavioral problems experienced by children in both home and school settings. Prototypical behavioral treatments of children's school phobia, attentional and hyperactivity problems, and oppositional and defiant behaviors are offered as examples of a few of the many childhood difficulties that have been successfully ameliorated through behavioral procedures. Applications of behavior therapy to cases of chronic illness and the prevention of negative responses to invasive medical procedures are also noted. New frontiers in behavior therapy with children include an emphasis upon the systemic prevention of childhood disorders before they arise, and an increased sensitivity to developmental issues as they relate to etiology and treatment of childhood problems.
Elastic fiber fragmentation increases transmural hydraulic conductance and solute transport in mouse arteries.

Transmural advective transport of solute and fluid was investigated in mouse carotid arteries with either a genetic knockout of Fibulin-5 (Fbln5-/-) or treatment with elastase to determine the influence of a disrupted elastic fiber matrix on wall transport properties. Fibulin-5 is an important director of elastic fiber assembly. Arteries from Fbln5-/- mice have a loose, non-continuous elastic fiber network and were hypothesized to have reduced resistance to advective transport. Experiments were carried out ex vivo at physiological pressure and axial stretch. Hydraulic conductance (Lp ) was measured to be 4.99·10-6 ± 8.94·10-7, 3.18·-5 ± 1.13·10-5 (P < 0.01), and 3.57·10-5 ± 1.77·10-5 (P < 0.01) mm·s-1·mmHg-1 for wild-type, Fbln5-/-, and elastase-treated carotids, respectively. Solute fluxes of 4, 70, and 150 kDa FITC-dextran were statistically increased in Fbln5-/- compared to wild-type by a factor of 4, 22, and 3 respectively. 70 kDa FITC-dextran solute flux was similarly increased in elastase-treated carotids by a factor of 27. Solute uptake by Fbln5-/- carotids was decreased compared to wild-type for all investigated dextran sizes after 60 minutes of transmural transport. These changes in transport properties of elastic fiber compromised arteries have important implications for the kinetics of biomolecules and pharmaceuticals in arterial tissue following elastic fiber degradation due to aging or vascular disease.
Soil Macroinvertebrate Presence Alters Microbial Community Composition and Activity in the Rhizosphere

Despite decades of research, our understanding of the importance of invertebrates for soil biogeochemical processes remains incomplete. This is especially true when considering soil invertebrate effects mediated through their interactions with soil microbes. The aim of this study was to elucidate how soil macroinvertebrates affect soil microbial community composition and function within the root zone of a managed grass system. We conducted a 2-year field mesocosm study in which soil macroinvertebrate communities were manipulated through size-based exclusion and tracked changes in microbial community composition, diversity, biomass and activity to quantify macroinvertebrate-driven effects on microbial communities and their functions within the rhizosphere. The presence of soil macroinvertebrates created distinct microbial communities and altered both microbial biomass and function. Soil macroinvertebrates increased bacterial diversity and fungal biomass, as well as increased phenol oxidase and glucosidase activities, which are important in the degradation of organic matter. Macroinvertebrates also caused distinct shifts in the relative abundance of different bacterial phyla. Our findings indicate that within the rhizosphere, macroinvertebrates have a stimulatory effect on microbial communities and processes, possibly due to low-intensity microbial grazing or through the dispersal of microbial cells and spores by mobile invertebrates. Our results suggest that macroinvertebrate activity can be an important control on microbially-mediated processes in the rhizosphere such as nitrogen mineralization and soil organic matter formation.
Readmissions After Injury: Is Fragmentation of Care Associated With Mortality?

Abstract Background Unplanned readmissions of surgical patients are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. “Fragmentation of care” (FOC) occurs when patients are readmitted to a different hospital than where they initially received care. FOC complicates accurate quantification of hospital readmission rates and is associated with worse outcomes in many surgical patient populations. However, few studies have evaluated the impact of FOC specifically on patients with traumatic injury. Materials and methods We performed a retrospective cohort study using the 2013 National Readmissions Database. Data on demographics, diagnosis, injury severity, readmissions, complications, and outcomes were collected. Patients readmitted to hospitals within 30 d after index admission were identified, and risk factors for readmission were discerned. Patients were stratified into groups readmitted to index versus nonindex hospital. Outcomes were compared between these groups. Results A total of 333,188 patients with index admission for injury were identified; 34,197 (10.3%) were readmitted within 30 d of discharge. Of these, only 24,747 (72.4%) were readmitted to their index hospital for an FOC rate of 27.6%. There was no significant difference in outcomes between patients readmitted to index versus nonindex hospitals. Among all readmitted patients, 30-d mortality was associated only with burden of medical comorbidities and age. Conclusions Single-institution readmission rates are not reflective of true readmission rates for trauma patients. FOC does not impact outcomes in trauma patients who are readmitted; however, age and number of comorbidities are associated with higher mortality in these patients. FOC rates are high in trauma patient populations and merit further investigation to determine potential etiologies and consequences.
Low-Temperature Ammonia Production during NO Reduction by CO Is Due to Atomically Dispersed Rhodium Active Sites

Rhodium plays a key role in three-way catalysts to control NOx emissions in gasoline engines primarily through the reduction of NO by CO. Despite extensive investigation, there remains uncertainty ...
Generalized Average Modeling of a Single-Stage Resonant-Based Inverter

This paper presents an accurate full-order continuous-time average model for a resonant-based inverter with variable switching frequency and phase shift control. A single-stage series-resonant dual active half bridge (SR-DAHB) inverter with combined phase shift and frequency modulation is studied. Four state variables are taken into account; resonant inductor current, resonant capacitor voltage, output filter capacitor voltage, and inverter’s filter inductor current. Since the ripples in the state variables are not small, the dc and first terms of the Fourier series are used to represent the average of the state variables more accurately. In addition, the small signal transfer function of the control-to-output has been derived to design a closed-loop current regulator. Finally, a hybrid control architecture is proposed based on the large and small-signal models. Simulation and experimental results on a 1kV, 50kW SR-DAHB inverter prototype validate the accuracy of the proposed full-order state-space model.
Tiny-CFA: A Minimalistic Approach for Control-Flow Attestation Using Verified Proofs of Execution.

The design of tiny trust anchors has received significant attention over the past decade, to secure low-end MCU-s that cannot afford expensive security mechanisms. In particular, hardware/software (hybrid) co-designs offer low hardware cost, while retaining similar security guarantees as (more expensive) hardware-based techniques. Hybrid trust anchors support security services, such as remote attestation, proofs of software update/erasure/reset, proofs of remote software execution, in resource-constrained MCU-s, e.g., MSP430 and AVR AtMega32. Despite these advances, detection of control-flow attacks in low-end MCU-s remains a challenge, since hardware requirements of the cheapest related architectures are often more expensive than the MCU-s themselves. In this work, we tackle this challenge by designing Tiny-CFA - a control-flow attestation (CFA) technique with a single hardware requirement - the ability to generate proofs of remote software execution (PoX). In turn, PoX can be implemented very efficiently and securely in low-end MCU-s. Consequently, our design achieves the lowest hardware overhead of any CFA architecture (i.e., two orders of magnitude cheaper), while relying on a formally verified PoX architecture as its sole hardware requirement. With respect to runtime overhead, Tiny-CFA also achieves better performance than prior CFA techniques based on code instrumentation. We implement and evaluate Tiny-CFA, analyze its security, and demonstrate its practicality using real-world publicly available applications.
The impact of distraction minimization on endoscopic mentoring and performance.

Background and study aims Endoscopic mentoring requires active attention by the preceptor. Unfortunately, sources of distraction are abundant during endoscopic precepting. The impact of distraction minimization on endoscopic mentoring and performance is unknown. Methods Fellow and attending preceptors were paired and randomized in a prospective crossover design to perform esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and/or colonoscopy in either a “distraction minimization” (DM) or a “standard” (S) room. Cell phones, pagers, music, and computers were not permitted in DM rooms. S rooms operated under typical conditions. Fellows and attendings then completed a survey. The primary outcome was fellow satisfaction with mentoring experience (visual analogue scale: 0 = min,100 = max). Additional fellow outcomes included satisfaction of attending attentiveness, identifying landmarks, communication, and distractedness; attending outcomes included satisfaction with mentoring, attentiveness, communication, and distractedness. Endoscopic performance measures included completion of EGD, cecal intubation rate, cecal intubation time, withdrawal time, total procedure time, attending assistance, and polyp detection rate. A paired t-test was used to compare mean differences (MD) between rooms; significance set at P Results Eight fellows and seven attendings completed 164 procedures. Despite a trend toward less distraction between rooms (DM = 12.5 v. S = 18.3, MD = 4.1, P = 0.17), there was no difference in fellow satisfaction with training/mentoring (DM = 93, S = 93, MD = –0.04, P = 0.97), attentiveness (DM = 95, S = 92, MD = 0.86, P = 0.77), identifying pathology/landmarks (DM = 94, S = 94, MD = –1.72, P = 0.56), or communication (DM = 95, S = 95,MD = 1.0, P = 0.37). Similarly, there was no difference between rooms for any attending outcome measures or performance metrics. Conclusions DM did not improve perceived quality of endoscopic mentoring or performance for fellows or attendings; however, reduced distraction may improve attending engagement/availability.
Retrospective Benefit–Cost Analysis of Security-Enhancing and Cost-Saving Technologies

Research and development (RD therefore, estimation is facilitated by developing a familiar linear welfare model using derivatives of cost and risk reduction functions to estimate areas of costs and benefits. The theoretical model is applied to two homeland security projects involving airport patrols and the assignment of U.S. federal air marshals to international flights. Retrospective data are available for most periods. Welfare-based rates of return are reported for the two cases, each of which is estimated to return large present value net benefits. Extensive sensitivity and Monte Carlo simulation explores uncertainties. Two important findings are that (i) given the rationality assumption, relative increases in security levels can be valued, even if the absolute level of security is not known; and (ii) large uncertainties about risk reduction exist but can be bounded by parametric sensitivity and uncertainty analysis.
DHEA as a biomarker of aging in humans and nonhuman primates: synthesis, neuroprotection, and cognitive function

Abstract Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfated ester (DHEAS) are two of the most abundant steroid hormones in the human circulation. Like cortisol, they are produced by the adrenal cortex and released into the circulation in a circadian pattern. Although the exact physiological roles of DHEA(S) are unclear, some of their actions may stem from intracrine conversion of DHEA(S) to estradiol within specific tissues, including cognitive brain centers. Importantly, circulating DHEA(S) concentrations decrease markedly during aging, and this decrease has been implicated in the cause of age-associated cognitive decline. However, although correlations have been demonstrated between circulating DHEA(S) concentrations and cognitive ability in certain human patient populations, such correlations have yet to be convincingly demonstrated during normal aging. Furthermore, despite DHEA being widely available in the United States, as a food supplement, there is little evidence supporting the view that physiological doses of exogenous DHEA can improve cognitive function in the elderly.