cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gaussian Cramer-Rao bound for direction estimation of noncircular signals in unknown noise fields

This paper focuses on the stochastic Cramer-Rao bound (CRB) on direction of arrival (DOA) estimation accuracy for noncircular Gaussian sources in the general case of an arbitrary unknown Gaussian noise field parameterized by a vector of unknowns. Explicit closed-form expressions of the stochastic CRB for DOA parameters alone are obtained directly from the Slepian-Bangs formula for general noncircular complex Gaussian distributions. As a special case, the CRB under the nonuniform white noise assumption is derived. Our expressions can be viewed as extensions of the well-known results by Stoica and Nehorai, Ottersten et al., Weiss and Friedlander, Pesavento and Gershman, and Gershman et al. Some properties of these CRBs are proved and finally, these bounds are numerically compared with the conventional CRBs under the circular complex Gaussian distribution for different unknown noise field models.
Aligned millimeter-long carbon nanotube arrays grown on single crystal magnesia

Single crystal magnesium oxide (MgO) was found to be very beneficial to the growth of aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays as long as 2.2 mm by chemical vapor deposition. Before growth, a thin film of catalyst (iron) was coated on the MgO by magnetron sputtering. Scanning electron microscopy was used to study the alignment and length, and transmission electron microscopy was used to exam the wall numbers, diameter, and graphitization. It was found that the number of walls as few as two can be controlled by the catalyst film thickness, whereas the length is a combined result of gas pressure, temperature, and time during growth. Water was found not to be a factor to the length of CNTs grown on MgO, but a significant factor when sapphire was used as the substrates.
Hopkins Ultraviolet Telescope Observations of Six Elliptical and S0 Galaxies

In order to better understand the hot stellar populations of E and S0 galaxies, we observed six objects using the Hopkins Ultraviolet Telescope. Through our 10'' × 56'' aperture, we observed the centers of M49, M60, M87, M89, NGC 3115, and NGC 3379 with varying exposure times and signal-to-noise. The far-ultraviolet (FUV) spectra were obtained during orbital night as part of the Astro-2 mission on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1995 March, and cover the spectral range of 820 to 1840 A with a resolution of 2-4 A. This sample quadruples the number of early-type galaxies studied to the Lyman limit. After correcting for geocoronal emission and interstellar extinction in our own Galaxy, all the spectra are similar, even though the "UV upturn" strength, as characterized by the parameter m1550 - V, varies over the range 2.04-3.86 mag for these galaxies. Comparison with models of evolved stellar populations confirms the conclusion from Astro-1 data that the FUV flux can be explained by the post horizontal branch evolution of stars with a narrow range of temperature and envelope mass on the extreme horizontal branch (EHB). These comparisons also put constraints on the FUV flux contribution from post-asymptotic giant branch (PAGB) stars. Furthermore, we find that the EHB stellar evolutionary flux deduced from the model fits to our data is positively correlated with the Mg2 absorption line strength.
TU‐D‐210A‐03: Where Sound Meets Electricity: The Acoustoelectric Effect in Biomedicine

The acoustoelectric(AE)effect is a well‐documented interaction between local pressure and electric resistivity. In recent years, the phenomenon has been revived for applications in biomedical imaging and therapy. My laboratory is developing two new approaches based on this concept: 1) ultrasonic imaging of current flow and 2) novel detection and imaging of an acoustic beam. UltrasoundCurrent Source Density Imaging (UCSDI) is a new modality for mapping electrical current deep into tissue. This approach combines moderate acoustic pressure with recording electrode technology to directly imagecurrent densities. We have demonstrated feasibility of UCSDI in saline, tissue‐equivalent phantoms, neural tissue and direct mapping of the cardiac activation wave in the live rabbit heart. Although potential applications of UCSDI are diverse, we are focusing on enhancing electrical cardiac mapping during ablation treatment of arrhythmias. There are several potential advantages of UCSDI over conventional electrophysiology and electrical imaging, highlighted by 1) enhanced spatial resolution determined by the size of the ultrasound focus (<1 mm); and 2) automatic co‐registration of UCSDI with pulse echo ultrasound, depicting current density maps superimposed on heart structure and motion. In addition to UCSDI, we are also developing the AEhydrophone as a new device for detecting pressure and imaging an ultrasound beam. As clinical applications for ultrasound therapy continue to proliferate—from lithotripsy to ablation treatment of uterine fibroids and cancer—the need for simple, rapid, and accurate estimates of the acoustic field become increasingly important. The AEhydrophone does not depend on a piezoelectric material; instead, a small region with high current density is used as a gain mechanism for detecting ultrasonic waves. I will present early results from initial prototypes and compare with conventional hydrophones, as well as simulations. The AEhydrophone has attractive attributes not typically seen with other devices, including simple construction, low cost, decent sensitivity, and resistant to damage at high intensity ultrasonic fields.
Identifying Heightened Risk for Posttraumatic Symptoms Among Maltreated Youth

Negative posttraumatic cognitions, dissociation, and depression may be key risk factors for PTSD symptoms in traumatized children. However, less information is available regarding how these factors may impact PTSD symptoms in maltreated youth in particular. The present study examined the relationship between (1) negative posttraumatic cognitions, dissociation, and depression and (2) posttraumatic symptom levels in maltreated youth via structural equation modeling. Further modeling was examined across IQ level, gender, age, ethnicity, and maltreatment type. Participants (n = 360) included maltreated youth from Department of Family Services-related sites. Negative posttraumatic cognitions, dissociation, and depression were associated with heightened posttraumatic symptoms. Model fit remained best with respect to age group (older youth), ethnicity (African American and multiracial status), and maltreatment type (sexual maltreatment and neglect), but varied little across IQ and gender. Specific individual characteristics may thus exacerbate risk for PTSD symptoms in maltreated youth.
Estimation of the instantaneous air count of general aviation aircraft flying under visual flight rules

Abstract This paper presents preliminary estimates of the instantaneous aircraft count (IAC) of general aviation (GA) aircraft flying under visual flight rules (VFR). Separate estimates for each of the following sub-categories of VFR flights are made from available data. (1) Itinerant GA flying under formal VFR flight plans. (2) Itinerant GA with no flight plans of any type. (3) Local GA. An itinerant aircraft is defined to be one whose origin and destination airports are different. A local GA is primarily one doing touch and go runway operations at an airfield. All estimates are generated by new mathematical models which utilize sampled field data. The IAC data of all GA come from towered and non-towered air fields and are tabulated by Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC), and by type of flight plan (IFR, VFR, no flight plan), although this paper willdeal only with last two categories of flight plan. General aviation with no flight plans constitute most of the aircraft in the air at any one time. The basic approach has been: (1) data sampling instead of census; (2) statistical estimates to infer data not sampled; and (3) data validation. The IAC of itinerant GA-VFR over the continental United States is estimated to be roughly 13,000, which is about 8% of all registered GA aircraft. The IAC of local GA is about 7% of the itinerant count. Comparison of these estimates with other sources of information indicate that they are fairly reasonable. A point of major importance in the overall approach is that aircraft activity and flight characteristics are similar in similar regions, thereby drastically reducing data collection costs and data processing. Predictive techniques are also facilitated.
Erythropoietin response to post–liver transplantation anemia

Abstract Anemia frequently accompanies end-stage liver disease.Erythropoietin has recently been shown to be of benefit in a number of diseases complicated by anemia. We studied erythropoietin levels before and after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) and correlated these with the degree of anemia. Twenty-seven patients with end-stage cirrhosis who underwent OLT had preoperative and weekly postoperative serum erythropoietin levels determined by a highly sensitive radioimmunoassay. The relation of erythropoietin level to the values for hematocrit, serum creatinine, and cyclosporine and other biochemical test results was evaluated. Before transplantation, 23 patients were anemic; erythropoietin levels were appropriately elevated (72.7 ± 37 mU/mL; normal, 10 to 15 mU/mL) for the degree of anemia (hematocrit, 33.1% ± 1%) in 16 patients (70%). A blunted erythropoietin response to anemia was found in 7 of the anemic patients with cirrhosis (30%). After OLT, the hematocrit decreased to 29.5% ± 0.6% at 4 weeks, with a reciprocal increase in serum erythropoietin levels to 36 ± 5 mU/mL. Erythropoietin response appeared appropriate to the degree of anemia in 82% of the liver transplant recipients and blunted in 18%. We conclude that the ability to secrete erythropoietin in response to anemia is defective in many patients with end-stage liver disease, and a normal response may be restored after OLT The results uggest that exogenous erythropoietin administration may be beneficial in anemic patients with cirrhosis and liver transplant recipients who have inappropriately low serum erythropoietin levels.
Time to metabolic atrophy after permanent prostate seed implantation based on magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging.

Abstract Purpose To characterize the time to metabolic atrophy (TMA) after permanent prostate implantation (PPI) using combined MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) compared with the time to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) nadir. Methods and materials This study was based on a posttreatment analysis comparing the MRI/MRSI findings with the PSA levels of 65 patients treated with PPI alone or combined with external beam radiotherapy and/or HT. The fraction of interpretable voxels demonstrating metabolic atrophy was used to compare the TMA with the time to PSA nadir. Results The fraction of patients with metabolic atrophy in >95% of usable voxels after PPI increased from ∼46% to 100% at 6 and 48 months, respectively. The mean time for PSA nadir vs. TMA was 42.5 vs. 28.9 months (PPI), 32.8 vs. 25.6 months (external beam radiotherapy + PPI), and 25.3 vs. 28.0 months (external beam radiotherapy + hormonal therapy + PPI). Conclusion Magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging may provide an early tool for evaluating the treatment response for patients treated with PPI. If supported by longer follow-up, TMA may be a useful adjunct to PSA measurement for assessing local control after PPI and could be useful in evaluating the complex relationships between the quality of the implant and the time to indication of successful therapy.
“Dad Doesn’t Text” Examining How Parents’ Use of Information Communication Technologies Influences Satisfaction Among Emerging Adult Children

Advancements in technology have altered how and when communication occurs between individuals in a relationship. Although research has investigated how new information communication technologies (ICTs) affect peer relationships and parents’ communication with their young children, how ICTs influence parent–adult child relationships is less clear. Based on media multiplexity theory (MMT), this study tested whether the number of media used to interact influences communication and relationship satisfaction for emerging adult children. Results indicated that the number of media parents and emerging adult children utilize to maintain their relationship does modestly influence communication and relationship satisfaction. Furthermore, these results imply that utilizing additional media can offset a parent’s low communication competence. These findings extend MMT to family relationships and underscore the importance of communication competence in communication and relationship satisfaction.
Response of the Wintertime Northern Hemisphere Atmospheric Circulation to Current and Projected Arctic Sea Ice Decline: A Numerical Study with CAM5

AbstractThe wintertime Northern Hemisphere (NH) atmospheric circulation response to current (2007–12) and projected (2080–99) Arctic sea ice decline is examined with the latest version of the Community Atmospheric Model (CAM5). The numerical experiments suggest that the current sea ice conditions force a remote atmospheric response in late winter that favors cold land surface temperatures over midlatitudes, as has been observed in recent years. Anomalous Rossby waves forced by the sea ice anomalies penetrate into the stratosphere in February and weaken the stratospheric polar vortex, resulting in negative anomalies of the northern annular mode (NAM) that propagate downward during the following weeks, especially over the North Pacific. The seasonality of the response is attributed to timing of the phasing between the forced and climatological waves. When sea ice concentration taken from projections of conditions at the end of the twenty-first century is prescribed to the model, negative anomalies of the NA...
Ca2+ sparks involving multiple Ca2+ release sites along Z‐lines in rat heart cells.

1. High spatial resolution confocal imaging was used to investigate the fundamental nature of "Ca2+ sparks' in rat cardiac myocytes loaded with the fluorescent calcium indicator, fluo-3. 2. The sites at which calcium sparks occurred (Ca2+ release sites) were packed closely and irregularly in transverse planes along Z-lines (mean spacing between sites of 0.76 microns). In contrast, sites were spaced more regularly in the longitudinal direction, at intervals of 1.8 microns (i.e. the sarcomere length). 3. Diffusion of released Ca2+ was slower transversely (apparent diffusion coefficient, D, 7.9 microns 2 s-1) than longitudinally (D, 17.1 microns 2 s-1). 4. Frequently, discrete sites several hundred nanometres apart transversely activated in near synchrony. The probability of transverse synchronous activity fell to low levels (< 20%) at sites separated by more than 1.0 micron. Synchronous activation was not observed between sites on different Z-lines (i.e. separated longitudinally by 1.8 microns). 5. High temporal resolution confocal microscopy (stationary spot) revealed Ca2+ sparks with "stepped' rises, consistent with multiple sites of origin. 6. We conclude that the Ca2+ spark as originally described is usually not an "elementary' event, in the sense of being indivisible, but is often comprised of yet smaller, triggered units of Ca2+ release.
Alpha as a Net Zero-Sum Game

Must aggregate alpha gains by one set of investors equal those lost by another set (after trading and research costs). In practice, the size of the alpha pie is not fixed. Investors9 strategies, choice sets, horizons, benchmarks, and risk preferences vary, and investors face different constraints and access costs. Over time, capital may be added to or taken away from any subset of the global financial system. It must be true, however, that global economic growth will drive the ability to provide net positive alpha (over the global risky asset market portfolio), as it influences aggregate wealth and capital creation.
A continuous reactor system for production of lactulose

A continuous reactor process was developed to produce lactulose from lactose. A system of two CSTRs in series with a tubular finishing reactor gave conversion to lactulose of about 76%. The reactors ran at 71-75 degrees C with a volumetric hold-up in the CSTRs of 22.7 dm3 and in the tubular reactor of 2.6 dm3. Each CSTR had a nominal residence time of 44 min. The flow rate was 0.53 dm3 min-1.
Mushrooms by magic: making connections between signal transduction and fruiting body development in the basidiomycete fungus Schizophyllum commune

The basidiomycete fungus Schizophyllum commune has been utilised as a model system for examining the genetic regulation of sexual reproduction, a process that culminates in the production of mushrooms in this and many other related species. Recent studies have suggested that conserved elements of the cyclic AMP (cAMP) signalling pathway play a role in the control of mushroom development in S. commune. The small G-protein Ras also appears to impinge on the process, either by inputting into the cAMP pathway, or by acting in parallel. The molecular connections between nutrient sensing and mushroom development are now beginning to be examined.
Optimization of thermoelectric topping combined steam turbine cycles for energy economy

Abstract A mismatch between the fuel combustion temperature ∼2250 K (adiabatic) and the high pressure steam temperature up to 900 K, results in a large amount of thermodynamic losses in steam turbine (ST) cycles. A solid-state thermoelectric (TE) placed on top of a ST cycle will produce additional electrical power. By selecting the right materials for the TE generator for high temperature operation, the energy production from the same fuel consumption will increase. Recent nano-structured enhancements to the thermoelectric materials could provide practical performance benefits. We carried out a theoretical study on the optimization of the interface temperature connecting these two idealized engines for energy economy as a combined system. We also analytically studied the optimum point-of-operation between the maximum power output for minimizing the payback and the maximum efficiency to obtain the maximum fuel economy for each generator. The economic optimum ends up in a significant reduction in energy cost ($/kW h). The combined TE topping generator system provides a lower energy cost for any period of operational life and higher interface temperature compared to the ST cycle alone. The maximum power output is observed at around 700 K of interface temperature for 10,000 h of operation, while the minimum energy production cost from the combined system is observed at over 900 K with ZT = 1.
Fracture processes in ferroic materials

Abstract This paper analyzes recent studies on the fracture behavior of BaTiO3 and Pb(ZrTi)O3. The analysis shows that the measured fracture parameters (strength, fracture energy, flaw size) in the ferroic state can be described by standard fracture mechanics equations which are modified to take into account internal stresses. Thus, the analysis suggests that the effects of ferroic mechanisms (ferroelastic twinning, phase transformations) on fracture are important only prior to catastrophic crack propagation.
PORT FACILITIES AND THE INTERNATIONAL COAL MARKET

Abstract This study examines the relationship between the increased demand for U.S. coal in the early 1980s, and the coal pier congestion that accompanied and hampered it. We find an export price elasticity for U.S. coal of -16.7, and a port service price elasticity of -0.8, suggesting deadweight losses of approximately $4 million per month. We then separate the short-term from the long-term changes in the demand for U.S. coal exports. The long-term demand estimates predict increases of 77% in U.S. coal exports, compared to the actual 83% increase in shipping capacity provided by coal shippers.
Anticarcinogenic effect of phytic acid (IP6): Apoptosis as a possible mechanism of action

Abstract Several in vivo and in vitro studies provide convincing evidence for the anticarcinogenic properties of phytic acid (PA) (Inositol hexaphosphate, IP6). The objectives of this investigation were to elucidate the effects of PA on suppression of colonic aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and to study the inhibitory effect of IP6 on human colon carcinoma, CaCo-2 cell line. Fisher 344 male, weanling rats were divided into 3 groups of 15 each and were fed control diet (AIN 93 G-C) and C+(1 or 2 g/100 g PA in water) for 13 weeks. Rats received 2 s.c. injections of azoxymethane (AOM) in saline at 16 mg/kg body weight at 7 and 8 weeks of age. There was a 36% and 42% reduction in ACF in 1 and 2 g/100 g PA groups compared to control group ( P 0.001 ) . Cytotoxic effect of IP6 was evaluated on Caco-2 cell line at concentrations of 0.25–4 g mol/l using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay (LDH released from the cytosol of damaged cells into the supernatant), histone-associated DNA fragmentation assay using a cell death detection ELISA® kit and microscopic analysis. The cells were treated with 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4 g mol/l of IP6 and incubated for 24 and 48 h. After 24 h of incubation, LDH release ranged from 13.55% to 44.70%. Histone-associated DNA fragmentation (an assay based on the quantitative sandwich-enzyme-immunoassay- principle directed against DNA and histones which allows the specific determination of mono- and oligonucleosomes in the cytoplasmic fraction of cell lysates) was also dose dependent. CaCo-2 cells grown on slide flaskets in the presence of 0.25 g mol/l IP6 showed membrane blebbing (zeiosis) characteristic of apoptitic activity. Results of this study indicate that IP6 might exert anticarcinogenic activity through induction of apoptosis.
Helium Sources to Groundwater in Active Volcanic Terrain, and Implications for Tritium-Helium Dating at Mount St. Helens

Abstract Groundwater helium sources and residence times were investigated using groundwater discharging from springs surrounding Mount St. Helens in the Cascades region of the United States. Significant contributions of mantle helium were found in all samples and are attributable to interaction between groundwater and magmatic gases. Bounding calculations for residence times were made on the basis of helium isotope mixing plots and historical tritium data.
Ecology and evolutionary biology in the war and postwar years: Questions and comments

Of all the scientists discussed by Mitman, Keller, and Taylor, Odum stands out most as the technocrat, the social engineer. But less obvious candidates, like Allee, also fancied themselves in this capacity: “Our task as biologists and as citizens of a civilized country, is a practical engineering job.” Allee had in mind the establishment of an international cooperative order based on his biological principles. He apparently did not recognize the extent to which his principles were themselves an engineering feat: he had already constructed a world in which eternal peace and order were possible. To an engineer in the traditional sense, the world is changeable, but not in all respects; there are constraints, and these constraints are taken very seriously. Scientists acting as engineers, in the traditional sense, must also pay attention to constraints. But scientists sometimes also take the option of engineering the very constraints, intellectually reconstructing the world so that it can (supposedly) be physically manipulated in the desired direction. There seems to be a lot of engineering, in the extended sense, going on in the very interesting stories that Mitman, Keller, and Taylor tell.
Elevated expression of T-antigen in skin fibroblasts from individuals with cytogenetic anomalies infected in vitro with simian or human papovaviruses.

SummaryHuman skin fibroblasts were infected with human papovavirus (BK type) or simian papovavirus 40 (SV40) at multiplicities of infection which induced similar frequencies of T-antigen-containing cells at 72 hr after infection. Both viruses exhibited a higher rate of T-antigen expression in cells from genetically abnormal individuals with Fanconi anemia, Turner's syndrome, or Klinefelter's syndrome than in cells from normal individuals.The authors wish to express their gratitude to Mark Gunnell, Thomas Archer, Elizabeth Alexander, and Carole Yee for their excellent technical assistance, and Celeste Martin for her patient secretarial assistance.
A comparative study of human periodontal ligament cells and gingival fibroblasts in vitro.

Both periodontal ligament and gingival tissue are thought to harbor cells with the ability to stimulate periodontal regeneration, i.e., formation of new bone, cementum, and connective tissue attachment. To understand further the role of these cells in the regenerative process, we compared human periodontal ligament cells and gingival fibroblasts, both derived from the same patient, same passage, in vitro. Protein and collagen production was significantly greater in periodontal ligament cells when compared with that of gingival fibroblasts. In addition, periodontal ligament cells had higher alkaline phosphatase levels when compared with those of gingival fibroblasts.
A novel vanadium(V) homocitrate complex: synthesis, structure, and biological relevance of [K2(H2O)5][(VO2)2(R,S-homocitrate)2]·H2O

Initial investigations into the possible roles of homocitric acid in the biosynthesis and function of the active site cofactor of nitrogenase resulted in the isolation and characterization of the dinuclear vanadium(V) species [K2(H2O)5][(VO2)2(R,S-C7H8O7)2]·H2O ( 1). Complex 1 represents the first synthetic structurally characterized transition metal homocitrate complex and may represent an early mobilized precursor in the biosynthesis of VFeco. Compound 1 was characterized by a variety of physical methods, including X-ray crystallography. Crystal data: space group P * (#2), with a = 10.292 (3) A, b = 16.663 (3) A, c = 8.343 (1) A, α = 95.93 (1)°, β = 105.74 (2)°, γ = 90.86 (2)°, V = 1386 (1) A3, and Z = 2. The homocitrate ligand is coordinated to the vanadium(V) atoms in a bidentate fashion via the deprotonated bridging hydroxyl group and a carboxylate donor. This unique coordination mode accurately mimics the coordination of homocitrate to the cofactor of nitrogenase.
Mössbauer spectroscopy studies of the magnetic ordering and relaxation of some chemically interesting systems in the Helium-3 temperature range (0.3 K to 1.3 K)

A new carbon sorption pumped Helium-3 Mossbauer spectroscopy cryostat is briefly described. Exempliary spectra for some magnetically interesting iron compounds are presented.
An Examination of the Interpersonal Psychological Theory of Suicidal Behavior in Physicians

Physicians are commonly reported to die by suicide more frequently than individuals in the general population. Thus far, few reasons for this elevated suicide risk have been empirically investigated. Although the interpersonal psychological theory of suicidal behavior (IPTS) has been suggested as a fruitful means of explaining physician suicidality, it has yet to be examined quantitatively. Four hundred nineteen Pennsylvania physicians were assessed on a number of demographics, as well as all components of the IPTS. Findings indicated that physician scores on IPTS components are comparable to other groups displaying increased suicidality (e.g., military populations, prior attempters). Perceived burdensomeness was a significant predictor of suicidal ideation, while thwarted belongingness predicted prior suicide attempts. Acquired capability did not distinguish between prior attempters and nonattempters. Preliminary findings indicate the IPTS may be a useful framework for understanding and predicting physician suicidality.
Perturbations of linear control systems

The purpose of this paper is to consider the controllability of linear control systems which are perturbations (with respect to $L^p $-norms) of controllable linear systems. We show that the set of all completely controllable linear systems is open and dense in the set of all linear control systems.
Controlled-ph batch butanol-acetone fermentation by low acid producing Clostridium acetobutylicum B18

C. acetobutylicum B18 produced a large amount of butanol over a wide range of pH (4.5–6.0). At pH 6.0 fermentation and cell growth were most active at pH 6.0, and the highest values of glucose consumption rate (4.37 g/L-h), butanol productivity (1.0 g/L-h), butyric acid recycle rate (0.31 g/L-h), and cell growth rate (0.2 h-1) were obtained. There existed a critical pH between 6.0 and 6.5 above which cells switched to organic acid producing mode. Clostridial stage appeared essential for solvent production by strain B18 but sporulation was not necessary for solvent formation.
INVESTIGATION OF A CERAMIC-METAL INTERFACE PREPARED BY ANODIC SPARK DEPOSITION

Les revetements Al 2 O 3 sont deposes sur des substrats en niobium. Caracterisation de l'interface par microscopie electronique a balayage, diffraction RX et analyse par microsonde electronique. Influence des parametres de depot: concentration de l'electrolyte
Ground-based tests of hollow cathode plasma contactors

Experimental results are presented which describe operation of and the plasma environment associated with a hollow cathode-based plasma contactor collecting electrons from an ambient, low density Maxwellian plasma when the boundary between the contactor and the ambient plasma is nearly hemispherical. Basic physical features of the process of electron collection identified on the basis of these results include a double-sheath across which a substantial potential difference can develop and substantial ionization of neutral gas coming from the cathode by the electrons being collected. Experimental results obtained when the diameter of the anode is too small to yield a hemispherical double-sheath are shown to induce distortion of this sheath but it is argued that the same basic phenomena are still active in this case. Data obtained in these experiments should serve to validate numerical models of this process that are being developed to predict plasma contactor performance in space. Preliminary performance and plasma property results measured on a contactor emitting electrons are examined and some physical elements of this process are identified.
Achieving Sustainable First Door-to-Balloon Times of 90 Minutes for Regional Transfer ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Objectives A network approach to transfer ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients can achieve durable first door-to-balloon times (1st D2B) for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) within 90 min. Background Nationally, a minority of STEMI patients from referral centers obtain 1st D2B in Methods Included were transfer STEMI patients from 9 network hospitals treated in 2007 compared with 2008 to 2011 after installing the following initiatives: 1) established hospital referral system; 2) goal-oriented performance protocols; 3) expedited transport by ground or air; 4) first hospital activation of the PCI hospital catheterization laboratory; and 5) outreach coordinator and patient-level web-based feedback to the referring hospital. Results A total of 101 STEMI patients transported in 2007 were compared with 442 STEMI patients transferred after starting these initiatives for STEMI from 2008 to 2011, with the median door-in to door-out time decreased from 44 to 35 min (p Conclusions A system-wide network program can achieve sustained (over 4 years) 1st D2B times of
Entropic elastomeric force in protein structure/function

Briefly noting earlier studies on the polypentapeptide of elastin, (Val1-Pro2-Gly3-Val4-Gly5)n, and on elastin, it is emphasized that entropic elastomeric force can be exhibited by nonrandom, anisotropic polypeptide systems and therefore that entropic elastomeric force does not necessarily result from isotropic random chain networks as required by the classical theory of rubber elasticity, nor does it result from solvent entropy effects as deduced from the slow loss of elastomeric force on thermal denaturation. Instead entropic protein elasticity can be the result of internal chain dynamics, specifically of librational processes that become damped on chain extension. This new mechanism of entropic protein elasticity allows for an understanding not only of elastin but also of the passive tension of striated muscle, of the voltage-dependent interconversion between open and closed conductance states in the sodium channel of squid nerve, and of protein elastic forces producing strain in a substrate bond during enzyme catalysis. Because entropic elastomeric force develops as a result of an inverse temperature transition, it becomes possible to shift the temperature of the transition to higher or lower temperatures by decreasing or increasing, respectively, the hydrophobicity of the elastomeric polypeptide chain. In warm-blooded animals this allows for biochemical modulation of the relaxation or development of entropic elastomeric force by an enzymatically modulated decrease or increase of the hydrophobicity, as for example, by phosphorylation or dephosphorylation of the elastomeric polypeptide chain. This understanding provides a mechanism for modulating protein function, whether for example enzymatic or channel, a mechanism for the remarkable reversible structural processes that attend parturition, and a mechanism for the connective tissue anomalies of wound repair and enviromentally induced lung disease.
Simulation: The forgotten tool of TQM

While examples of the successful use of simulation in activities that are relevant to or can be part of a TQM program and process improvement programs exist, its potential in integrated system-wide TQM and process improvement applications is often overlooked. Integration of simulation as a system-wide tool will lead to significant improvements in TQM and process improvement efforts. This paper describes several cases in which simulation has been used in TQM-related projects to significantly improve the results. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Syst Eng 2: 237–241, 1999
Factors influencing changes in surgical intensive care unit utilization.

Objectives To determine the factors that cause changes in surgical intensive care unit (ICU) utilization. The aim was to uncover the causes of these changes and examine whether any could have been predicted statistically. Design Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected representative data. Setting University hospital adult surgical ICU. Patients A total of 6,571 consecutive patients admitted over 8 yrs. Interventions None. Measurements and Main Results Changes in annual admission rates and lengths of stay were examined to determine their causes, whether they were because of structural changes caused by alterations of physical facilities, functional changes caused by changes in personnel or policies, or clinical changes caused by alterations in clinical practice. The medical literature was examined to determine whether these changes reflected medical trends. During the 8 yrs there was a steady increase in the number of admissions and a steady reduction in the length of stay. These changes in unit utilization were often not predictable statistically and were attributable to a combination of clinical, structural, and functional factors. Conclusions Surgical ICU utilization was notable for continual, and not predictable, changes. Clinical issues included new surgical techniques and anesthetic practices; structural causes included changes in bed capacity and opening an intermediate care unit; and functional factors involved changes in surgical personnel, policy revisions, and pressures to reduce ICU length of stay. This was further complicated by the observation that changes in the number of admissions were often not paralleled by similar changes in the number of patient days. This complex situation demonstrated the problems of basing predictions of future utilization on previous experiences.
Myoclonic seizures with lithium.

Abstract Myoclonus has been infrequently observed in patients receiving lithium therapy, and associated electroencephalographic (EEG) changes have not been well described. We report two women, ages 35 and 48, who, after the initiation of lithium carbonate therapy, had several generalized tonic-clonic seizures followed by myoclonic seizures. In both, myclonus was associated with repetitive sharp waves on the EEG. Although the epileptogenicity of lithium remains controversial, the occurrence of myoclonic seizures associated with lithium treatment suggests a proconvulsant effect of lithium in susceptible individuals.
Dielectric constants of chrysoberyl, spinel, phenacite, and forsterite and the oxide additivity rule

The dielectric constants and dielectric loss values of BeAl2O4 (chrysoberyl), MgAl2O4 (spinel), Be2SiO4 (phenacite), and Mg2SiO4 (forsterite) were measured at 1 MHz using a two-terminal method and empirically determined edge corrections. The results are: chrysoberyl, κ′ a =9.436, κ′ b =9.071, κ′ c =8.269; spinel, κ′ a =8.18; phenacite, κ′ a =6.28, κ′ c =6.06; and forsterite, κ′ a =6.867, κ′ b =7.392, κ′ c =6.739. The agreement between measured dielectric polarizabilities as determined from the Clausius-Mosotti equation and those calculated from the sum of oxide polarizabilities according to αD(M2M′X4) = 2αD(MX)+αD(M′X2) is ~ 1.0%.
Evaluation of the Mn Lα and Lβ Spectra of Mn Metal and of Various Mn-Oxides

Abstract The Mn Lα and Lβ spectra of Mn, MnO, Mn3O4, Mn2O3, and MnO2 have been measured. Each Mn La spectrum has been deconvoluted into two bands, LαA and LαB, and the integrated LαA/LαB intensity ratio was found to be inversely proportional to the Mn-0 inter-atomic distance, but proportional to the oxidation number. This finding tends to indicate the likelihood of crossover transition from oxygen to manganese. The intensity ratio Lβ/LαB of the pure metal was found to coincide closely with the statistically predicted value of 0.5. Furthermore, for Mn-metal, as well as for the oxides, the shift of the LαA band from the LαB band was found to agree with the change in the Lβ/Lα peak intensity ratio as a function of oxidation number.
Geomorphic inferences from regolith thickness, chemical denudation and CRN erosion rates near the glacial limit, Boulder Creek catchment and vicinity, Colorado

Granitic regolith, developed in the Boulder Creek catchment and adjacent areas, records a history of deep weathering, some of which may predate Quaternary time. Field and well-log measurements of weathering, chemical denudation and rates of erosion derived from 10Be cosmogenic radionuclide (CRN) data help to quantify rates of landscape change in the post-orogenic Rocky Mountains. The density of oxidized, fractured bedrock ranges from 2.7 to about 2.2 g cm− 3, saprolite and grus have densities between ∼2.0 and 1.8 g cm− 3, and 30 soil samples averaged 1.6 ± 0.2 g cm− 3. Highly weathered regolith in ∼540 wells averages ∼3.3 m thick, mean depth to bedrock in 1661 wells is ∼7 m, and the weathered thickness exceeds 10 m in relatively large local areas east of the late Pleistocene glacial limit. Thickness of regolith shows no simple relationship to rock type or structure, local slope, or distance from channels. Catchments in the vicinity of the Boulder Creek have an average CRN erosion rate of 2.2 ± 0.7 cm kyr− 1 for the past 10,000 to 40,000 yr. Annual losses of cations and SiO2 vary from about 2 to 5 g m− 2 over a runoff range of 10 to nearly 160 cm. Using measured rates in simple box models shows that if a substantial fraction of void space is created by volume expansion in the weathering rock materials, ∼7 m of weathered rock materials could form in as little as 230 kyr. If density loss results mainly from chemical denudation and some volume expansion, however, the same weathering profile would take > 1340 kyr to form. Rates of erosion measured by CRN could be balanced by the rate of soil formation from saprolite if the annual solute loss from soil is 2.0 g m− 2 and 70% of the density decrease from saprolite to grus and soil results from strain. Saprolite, however, forms from oxidized bedrock at a far slower rate and rates of saprolite formation cannot balance soil and grus losses to erosion. The zone of thick weathered regolith is likely an eroding relict landscape. The undulating surface marked by relatively low relief and tors is not literally a topographic surface of Eocene, Oligocene or Miocene age unless it was covered with deposits that were removed in Pliocene or Quaternary time.
Section Review—Cardiovascular & Renal: Recent Developments in Antithrombotic Agents

During the past decade, many significant developments in the clinical management of thrombotic and vascular disorders have occurred. In particular, several newer approaches for the prophylactic and therapeutic management of such disorders as venous thrombosis, acute myocardial infarction and stroke have been introduced. This has only been possible due to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the thrombogenic process which plays a key role in the pathophysiology of thrombotic and vascular disorders. With the increased knowledge of the pathophysiology of thrombosis have come advances in drug treatment possibilities. Advances in biotechnology and separation techniques have contributed to the development of many newer antithrombotic, anticoagulant and thrombolytic drugs. Many new drugs and devices based on newer concepts are currently being tested in various clinical trials. Hirudin, hirulog, Gpllb/llla targeting antibodies and tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI), are some examples. Fro...
Preparation of highly hydrophobic and oleophobic textile surfaces using microwave-promoted silane coupling

The wetting behavior of a solid surface is controlled by the geometric structure as well as the chemical composition of the material. In this study, highly hydrophobic and oleophobic materials were prepared by microwave-assisted cross-linking of perfluoroalkoxysilane onto nylon and cotton-blended fabric. Surface roughness was controlled by choice of the catalyst. Water catalysis resulted in a smooth coating deposition of the perfluoroalkoxysilanes on the fiber surface, while base catalysis resulted in a micro and nano scale rough surface on the fibers. Both water and base-catalyzed materials were superhydrophobic, but creating multi-scale geometric structure via base catalysis was required to improve oleophobicity. A series of experiments explored the parameters of fluorosilane concentration, base catalysis, curing time, and the number of cures. The apparent contact angles of the fabric samples treated in a multiple dip-and-cure sequence averaged 135° (hexadecane) and 148° (water) with no absorption of either within 60 h (hexadecane) or until complete evaporation (water).
Genetic Control of Dairy Cattle Behavior

Abstract Past efforts to understand the genetics of behavior in cattle, and livestock in general, have emphasized changes related to the domestication process. Especially in intensive systems, domestic cattle may not express the full range of innate behavior when they are provided with food, shelter, and protection from predators. When provision of these necessities is inadequate or curtailed, a larger range of behaviors may occur. The goal of this paper is to explore the prospects of enhancing behavior genetically to better adapt dairy cattle to current and future dairy production systems. In dairy cattle, behavioral traits have been categorized as feeding, reproductive, maternal, social, learning, and human-animal interaction. Temperament, when scored subjectively and retrospectively by the human handler, is a measure of human-animal interaction. It is the most evaluated behavior trait in cattle, and is related to ease of handling, milking efficiency, and handler safety. Recent estimates of heritability for temperament range from 0.08 to 0.25, with differences observed among breeds. Thus, temperament may have potential for inclusion in breeding objectives. Traits that affect feeding behavior, such as time spent grazing and aggressiveness at the feed bunk in confinement systems, may prove to have great economic value. However, little is known about the genetic control of their expression. Duration and intensity of estrus behavior may be genetically influenced and is becoming increasingly important as labor for estrus detection becomes less available and more expensive. In the past, routine collection of behavior measurements has been difficult or impossible on a large scale. Future progeny-test programs or genetic improvement schemes, such as nucleus breeding herds using Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer (MOET), that focus intensive data collection on a small number of large herds may foster recording of economically important behavioral traits like temperament, estrus expression, and measures of feeding behavior.
Global quantitative assessment of the colorectal polyp burden in familial adenomatous polyposis by using a Web-based tool

Background Accurate measures of the total polyp burden in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) are lacking. Current assessment tools include polyp quantitation in limited-field photographs and qualitative total colorectal polyp burden by video. Objective To develop global quantitative tools of the FAP colorectal adenoma burden. Design A single-arm, phase II trial. Patients Twenty-seven patients with FAP. Intervention Treatment with celecoxib for 6 months, with before-treatment and after-treatment videos posted to an intranet with an interactive site for scoring. Main Outcome Measurements Global adenoma counts and sizes (grouped into categories: 4 mm) were scored from videos by using a novel Web-based tool. Baseline and end-of-study adenoma burden results were summarized by using 5 models. Correlations between pairs of reviewers were analyzed for each model. Results Interobserver agreement was high for all 5 measures of polyp burden. Measures that used both polyp count and polyp size had better interobserver agreement than measures based only on polyp count. The measure in which polyp counts were weighted according to diameter, calculated as (1) × (no. of polyps 4 mm) had the highest interobserver agreement (Pearson r = 0.978 for two gastroenterologists, 0.786 and 0.846 for the surgeon vs each gastroenterologist). Treatment reduced the polyp burden by these measurements in 70% to 89% of patients (P Limitations Phase II study. Conclusion This novel, Web-based polyp scoring method provides a convenient and reproducible way to quantify the global colorectal adenoma burden in FAP patients and a framework for developing a clinical staging system for FAP.
Intercomparison of HALOE and ER-2 aircraft H2O and CH4 Observations collected during the Second Airborne Arctic STratospheric Experiment (AASE-II)

HALOE observations of H2O and CH4 are compared with in situ techniques aboard the ER-2 aircraft during the northern winter of 1991/92, in particular for the dates 911208, 920108, 920217, 920222, and 920320 when the spatial coincidences are close, within +/- 1 deg latitude and +/- 12 deg longitude. The results reveal the limitations of comparing high resolution in situ aircraft data with a remote sounding limb scanner. Of the five comparison dates, three had HALOE/ER-2 coincidences which occurred near the edge of the Arctic vortex; the vertical variability in the HALOE results and the horizontal variability in the ER-2 observations on these days show that the vortex edge is not a region where exact agreement can be expected except by chance. On a 4th comparison date, there was substantial overlap away from the vortex edge, although for some species the aircraft data show considerable variability near the coincidence point. On the 5th comparison date, the ER-2 had no overlap in altitude with the lowest HALOE observations; however, a short linear interpolation over about 1 km altitude results in smooth composite profiles. Generally speaking the agreement between HALOE and the ER-2 at overlap altitudes is about 12 percent in the case of water vapor, which shows low horizontal and vertical variability. The agreement for methane, with limited data having altitude overlap, is better than 6 percent.