cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the Spectral Efficiency of Noncoherent Doubly Selective Block-Fading Channels

In this paper, we consider noncoherent single-antenna communication over doubly selective block-fading channels with discrete block-fading interval N . In our noncoherent setup, neither the transmitter nor the receiver know the channel fading coefficients, though both know the channel statistics. In particular, we consider discrete-time channels whose impulse-response trajectories obey a complex-exponential basis expansion model with uncorrelated coefficients, and we show that such a model holds in the limit N ? ? for pulse-shaped transmission/reception over certain wide-sense stationary uncorrelated scattering channels. First, we show that, when the inputs are chosen from continuous distributions, the channel's multiplexing gain (i.e., capacity pre-log factor) equals max(0, 1 - N delay N Dopp/N) , for discrete delay spread N delay and discrete Doppler spread N Dopp. Next, for the case of strictly doubly selective fading (i.e., N Dopp > 1 and N delay > 1), we establish that, for cyclic-prefixed affine pilot-aided transmission (PAT) schemes designed to minimize the mean-squared error (MSE) attained by pilot-aided minimum-MSE channel estimation, the pre-log factor of the achievable rate is less than the channel's multiplexing gain. We then provide guidelines for the design of PAT schemes whose achievable-rate pre-log factor equals the channel's multiplexing gain and construct an example.
Shape and motion analysis of left ventricle dyssynchrony from real-time 3D echocardiography

The diagnosis of left ventricular mechanical dyssynchrony (LVMD) and identifying cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) candidates are challenging problems due to the limitation of the currently applied regional volume-curve analysis. In this study, four-dimensional (4D, 3D+time) left ventricle (LV) regional shape models of 26 LVMD patients were constructed from pre- and/or post- CRT real-time 3D echocardiography (RT3DE) datasets that include 9,900 traced slices on 663 cardiac phases. The shape model analysis based on principal components were compared to volume curve model analysis. The results suggested that the 4D shape modal indices correctly capture LVMD motion patterns and their relative changes after CRT, comparably to the volume curve analysis, and they are also likely to capture unique LVMD shape and motion features that cannot be found by volume curve analysis.
Formalizing designer's preferences for multiattribute optimization with application to leakage-delay tradeoffs

Traditional single-attribute optimization problems force a designer to choose either power or delay as the objective function and minimize it with constraints on other attributes. However this approach does not provide the designer with enough freedom to incorporate tradeoffs between various attributes such as leakage and delay. In this paper we present a utility theoretic approach for the joint optimization of leakage and delay. This provides a general framework for quantifying a designer's preferences for tradeoffs between leakage and delay. We show that energy-delay product (EDP) is an element of a larger class of such utility functions. The resulting multi-attribute optimization problem is modeled as a convex gate sizing problem that is solved using Geometric Programming. The resulting solution is a design point that is optimal with respect to the designer's preferences.
Methodological Review: Cloud computing: A new business paradigm for biomedical information sharing

We examine how the biomedical informatics (BMI) community, especially consortia that share data and applications, can take advantage of a new resource called ''cloud computing''. Clouds generally offer resources on demand. In most clouds, charges are pay per use, based on large farms of inexpensive, dedicated servers, sometimes supporting parallel computing. Substantial economies of scale potentially yield costs much lower than dedicated laboratory systems or even institutional data centers. Overall, even with conservative assumptions, for applications that are not I/O intensive and do not demand a fully mature environment, the numbers suggested that clouds can sometimes provide major improvements, and should be seriously considered for BMI. Methodologically, it was very advantageous to formulate analyses in terms of component technologies; focusing on these specifics enabled us to bypass the cacophony of alternative definitions (e.g., exactly what does a cloud include) and to analyze alternatives that employ some of the component technologies (e.g., an institution's data center). Relative analyses were another great simplifier. Rather than listing the absolute strengths and weaknesses of cloud-based systems (e.g., for security or data preservation), we focus on the changes from a particular starting point, e.g., individual lab systems. We often find a rough parity (in principle), but one needs to examine individual acquisitions-is a loosely managed lab moving to a well managed cloud, or a tightly managed hospital data center moving to a poorly safeguarded cloud?
An in vitro spectroscopic analysis to determine whether para-chloroaniline is produced from mixing sodium hypochlorite and chlorhexidine.

Introduction The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine whether para-chloroaniline (PCA) is formed through the reaction of mixing sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and chlorhexidine (CHX).
Combined unilateral blockade of cholinergic, peptidergic, and serotonergic receptors in the ventral respiratory column does not affect breathing in awake or sleeping goats.

Previous work in intact awake and sleeping goats has found that unilateral blockade of excitatory inputs in the ventral respiratory column (VRC) elicits changes in the concentrations of multiple ne...
Autobiographie als Familientradition: Die Augsburger Familie von Stetten

Mikrohistorisch geht es bei Familientraditionen um die Entstehung, Ausgestaltungund Weitergabe von Ritualen, Themen, Auftragen und Werten. Dies soll imFolgenden beispielhaft an der autobiographischen Tradition der Augsburger Patrizierfamilievon Stetten anschaulich gemacht werden.
Making european-style community wind power development work in the United States

Making European-Style Community Wind Power Development Work in the United States Mark A. Bolinger Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory One Cyclotron Road, MS 90-4000 Berkeley, California 94720, USA MABolinger@lbl.gov 603-795-4937 (phone and fax) Abstract Once primarily a European phenomenon, community wind power development – defined here as one or more locally owned, utility-scale wind turbines interconnected on either the customer or utility side of the meter – is gaining a foothold in an increasing number of states throughout the United States. This article describes the various policies and incentives that Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Massachusetts are using to support community wind power development, and how state and federal support influences the types of projects and ownership structures that are being developed. Experience in these states demonstrates that, with an array of incentives and creative financing schemes targeted at community-scale projects, there are opportunities to make community wind work in the United States. Keywords: Wind power; Community; Financing; Ownership; Economics; Policy Contents 1. Introduction 1 2. Community Wind in Europe 2 3. Community Wind in the United States 5 3.1 Minnesota 5 3.1.1 Xcel Energy’s Wind Mandate 6 3.1.2 Minnesota’s Renewable Energy Objective 7 3.1.3 Xcel Energy’s Small Wind Tariff and PPA 7 3.1.4 Minnesota’s Production Incentive 7 3.1.5 Xcel Energy’s Renewable Development Fund 8 3.1.6 Minnesota Department of Commerce Grants 9 3.1.7 USDA Farm Bill Grants 9 3.1.8 Results 10
Foster parent training programmes for foster youth: a content review

Foster parent training is a well-recognized component of providing quality care in child welfare. Well-trained foster parents can improve placement stability, reduce behavioural problems and encourage successful reunification or adoption. A review of the foster parent training programmes can provide a better understanding of the current state of foster parenting training and inform future practice and policy-making. This review examined published and unpublished research on foster parent training conducted from 1970 to 2014 and provided an overview of the structure and content of 22 foster parent training programmes. Common patterns in the content and structure of foster parent training programmes are identified and discussed, highlighting trends towards multi-session in-service training with eclectic content. The development of new training programmes with strong theoretical grounding that train foster parents on specific behavioural skills is recommended.
Lattice-Ordered Groups of Divisibility: An Expository Introduction

This paper discusses the interplay between the theories of abelian l-groups and Bezout domains via the group of divisibility This interplay depends on a one-to-one correspondence between onto l-homomorphisms and overrings. A method for interpreting l-embeddings in the context of Bezout domains is conjectured.
Identification of the Covalently Bound Flavin of Succinate Dehydrogenase as 8α-(Histidyl) Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide

Abstract Acid hydrolysis of flavin peptides from the active center of mammalian succinate dehydrogenase yields a substituted riboflavin which was isolated in pure form. It contains a substituent attached to position 8α of riboflavin. Drastic acid hydrolysis of this compound and catalytic hydrogenation yield nearly 1 mole of free histidine. Histidine is also liberated on neutral photolysis. The presence of histidine is confirmed by behavior on high voltage electrophoresis at various pH values and by acid titration curves. Linkage of the 8α-CH3 group of riboflavin is to one of the imidazole ring nitrogens since neither the flavin peptide nor its acid derivative give a Pauly reaction. This assignment is in full accord with the characteristic pH-fluorescence curve of covalently bound flavin. The pK of the fluorescence quenching agrees with that expected for the imidazole nitrogen in histidyl flavin.
Metabolic and neurochemical profiles in insulin-treated diabetic rats

Plasma glucose concentration was measured at 3-h intervals in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats placed on various insulin replacement regimens using three different kinds of insulin. High insulin dosages produced at least periodic hypoglycemia, even though there were no overt signs of insulin overdose. Low- and single-dose regimens produced periods of hyperglycemia. Both high and low doses of protamine zinc insulin normalized diabetes-induced reductions in 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid [5-HIAA; the principal metabolite of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] and 5-HT turnover (5-HIAA/5-HT), despite the failure of the low-dose regimen to normalize plasma glucose. Diabetic rats evidenced continued hyperphagia and hyperdipsia during insulin treatment, and insulin treatment also induced hyperphagia and excessive weight gain in nondiabetic rats. Insulin treatment only partially normalized diabetes-induced adrenal hypertrophy. Adrenal hypertrophy is an indication of a continued stresslike physiological state in diabetes even during insulin therapy. This state may be involved in the enhanced risk in diabetic humans for development of anxiety disorders and clinical depression.
Book & Resource Reviews

The article reviews the book “Metrics for Project Management: Formalized Approaches,” by Parviz F. Rad and Ginger Levin.
Global non-communicable disease prevention: Building on success by addressing an emerging health need in developing countries

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are beginning to dominate the global health landscape. Despite numerous calls to action for chronic disease preventive and control, the response to the urgency is insufficient, especially in terms of their prevention efforts. Worldwide, the total number of people dying from NCDs is twice that of the combined total of all infectious diseases (including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria), maternal and perinatal conditions and nutritional deficiencies. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the world and accounts for about 30% of all deaths. Increased interventions in global NCDs prevention and control programs are needed as a global strategy to improve the current scenario. Specifically, we present this case for the United States to provide leadership in global NCD prevention and control.
Structure of the Eyes of the Pea Aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum

The 3 separate types of visual centers, the ocelli and the primary and secondary compounds eyes of the pea aphid, are illustrated and discussed. Each system is morphologically distinct and each, within the limits imposed by its own structure, should be capable of receiving visual signals and transmitting them to the brain. Differences in the location of pigments within the ommatidia of secondary compound eye of apterous viviparous females are illustrated. The exact functions of each type of eye and reasons for differences in the movement of pigment are unknown.
The role of religiosity as a protective factor against marijuana use among African American, White, Asian, and Hispanic adolescents

AbstractGiven the moves toward legalization of marijuana in the United States and problems associated with adolescent marijuana use, this study focused on examining the role of religiosity in protecting African American, White, Hispanic, and Asian American adolescents from using marijuana. It also tested the moderation effects of race on religiosity and marijuana use. Results of the main effects revealed that religiosity may serve as a protective factor against marijuana use for African American, White, Hispanic, and Asian American adolescents. Race did not have moderating effects on the relationship between religiosity and marijuana use in the sample. Implications for clinical practice are discussed.
Effect of platinum nanoparticle deposition parameters on hydrogen peroxide transduction for applications in wearable electrochemical glucose biosensors

Enhanced interest in wearable biosensor technology over the past decade is directly related to the increasing prevalence of diabetes and the associated requirement of daily blood glucose monitoring. In this work we investigate the platinum-carbon transduction element used in traditional first-generation glucose biosensors which rely on the concentration of hydrogen peroxide produced by the glucose–glucose oxidase binding scheme. We electrodeposit platinum nanoparticles on a commercially-available screen printed carbon electrode by stepping an applied current between 0 and 7.12 mA/cm2 for a varying number of cycles. Next, we examine the trends in deposition and the effect that the number of deposition cycles has on the sensitivity of electrochemical glucose sensing. Results from this work indicate that applying platinum nanoparticles to screen printed carbon via electrodeposition from a metal salt solution improves overall biosensor sensitivity. This work also pinpoints the amount of platinum (i.e., number of deposition cycles) that maximizes biosensor sensitivity in an effort to minimize the use of the precious metals, viz., platinum, in electrode fabrication. In summary, this work quantifies the relationship between platinum electrodeposition and sensor performance, which is crucial in designing and producing cost-effective sensors.
Effects of resolution and reaging treatment on mechanical properties and microstructure of 7175 aluminum alloy

The effects of resolution and reaging treatment on mechanical properties of 7175 aluminum alloy were investigated by using scanning electron microscopy(SEM),transmission electron microscopy(TEM),tensile test and conductivity measurement test.The results show that the second-stage ageing temperature is the most important effect factor,and the optimum comprehensive properties can be obtained by means of 480 ℃×2 h+95 ℃×8 h+180 ℃×10 h resolution and reaging treatment.At the same time,when intracrystalline precipitated phase of 7175 aluminum alloy includes more and finer GP zone and small-size η′ phase,and size of precipitated phase in grain boundary becomes bigger,the material would possess good comprehensive properties.
Coordinated Control of Reactive and Active Power for Direct-Drive Wind Farm

In allusion to slow and considerable voltage fluctuation caused by wind speed disturbance,load variation and so on,a power coordination control strategy for direct-drive wind farms was proposed.Through decreasing active power output by adjusting pitch angle,the ability of adjusting reactive power of direct-drive wind farm was enhanced and the output voltage level of direct-drive wind farm could be maintained,thus it could be prevented or avoided for wind power generating sets to fall into low voltage ride through(LVRT) and other abnormal modes due to higher voltage deviation which might bring about severe impact on power grid.Simulation results showed that the proposed method could rationally coordinate active and reactive power of direct-drive wind farm and effectively provide reactive power support to output voltage of direct-drive wind farm,therefore the voltage stability at the point where direct-drive wind farm is connected to power grid can be maintained.
System Stability Control Strategy for Multi-Send & Multi-Infeed HVDC Project from Southwest Hydropower Stations to East China Power Grid

The definition of multi-send multi-infeed DC (MS-MIDC) system is given in this paper,and the features and existing problem of this kind of system are analyzed. From the viewpoint of MS-MIDC system,to enhance the stability of MS-MIDC project from hydropower stations in Southwest China to East China power grid a scheme of dynamic reactive power compensation through both static var compensator (SVC) and synchronous condenser is researched. Considering the superiority of easy to implement mutual support among HVDC systems within this MS-MIDC project,it is proposed to utilize both overload capability and frequency modulation function of HVDC systems to realize the coordinated control among HVDC systems to improve the stability level of the project under serious faults. Simulative calculation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.
Predictors of excessive blood use after coronary artery bypass grafting. A multivariate analysis.

One hundred fifty-nine consecutive patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting were studied to determine clinical and laboratory predictors of excessive postoperative packed red blood cell transfusion. Consideration of the distribution of packed red blood cells administered revealed that the patients could be divided into two groups: those patients who received 5 units of red blood cells or less (group I, n = 139) and those patients who received more than 5 units of packed red blood cells (group II, n = 20). The Mann-Whitney test or Fisher’s exact test was used whenever appropriate to test differences between these two groups with respect to twelve patient variables. Patients in group II were found to have a significantly longer preoperative template bleeding time and decreased preoperative packed red blood cell volume (p
Probing the association of smoking status with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

e15524 Background: Bladder cancer is strongly associated with smoking, with close to a 50% case attribution. There is ample evidence to support the direct genotoxic effect of cigarette smoke on the...
In Vitro Inhibition of the Growth of Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli 0157:H7 by Bacteria Isolated from the Cecal Contents of Adult Chickens.

A Veillonella species and Enterococcus durans were isolated from the cecal contents of adult broilers. Mixed cultures of Veillonella and E. durans inhibited the growth of Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli 0157:H7 on media containing 2.5% lactose (w/v). The growth of S. typhimurium or E. coli 0157:H7 was not inhibited by mixed cultures containing Veillonella and E. durans on media containing only 0.25% lactose or by pure cultures of Veillonella or E. durans on media containing either 0.25% or 2.5% lactose. The mixed cultures of Veillonella and E. durans produced significantly (P<0.05) more acetic, propionic, and lactic acids in media containing 2.5% lactose than in media containing 0.25% lactose. The inhibition of the enteropathogens was related to the production of lactic acid from lactose by the E. durans and the production of acetic and propionic acids from lactic acid by the Veillonella .
N–H cleavage as a route to new pincer complexes of high-valent rhenium

A novel PNN-type pincer ligand has been accessed via imine reduction with LiAlH4 to provide the phosphine diamino proligand, PNHNH (1). The ligand, 1, as well as PNHP can be metallated directly, via N–H cleavage, with L2ReOX2(OEt) precursors to access six-coordinate (PNP)ReOCl2 (2) and (PNNH)ReOX2 (3-Cl, X = Cl; 3-Br, X = Br) in good yield. 3-Cl and 3-Br undergo dehydrohalogenation upon treatment with NEt3, furnishing the five-coordinate phosphine/diamido PNN-type compounds (PNN)ReOX (4-Cl, X = Cl; 4-Br, X = Br) in excellent yield, presenting as a mixture of rotameric diasteromers. The reversibility of this deprotonation, and the coordinative unsaturation of 4-Cl is shown in reactions with HCl(aq) and PMe3 providing 3-Cl and 4-PMe3, respectively. Treatment of 4-Cl with AgOAc, AgOTf, or NaHBEt3 lead to formation of (PNN)ReO(OAc) (4-OAc), (PNN)ReO(OTf) (4-OTf), and (PNN)ReO(H) (4-H), all isolated in excellent yields in varying diasteromeric ratios. The nature of the isomerism was analyzed based on solid-state structural studies and solution NMR data.
Estimating Trends in the Atmospheric Deposition of Pollutants

Atmospheric deposition is widely recognized as a major environmental problem. The release in this century of anthropogenic emissions has polluted the atmosphere and changed its chemistry. Atmospheric deposition of acids and bases occurs through both wet and dry mechanisms. Wet deposition is the result of precipitation removing gases and large and fine particles from the atmosphere. Dry deposition is the transfer of gases and particles to the ground surface in the absence of precipitation. Changes over time in these components of deposition reflect changes in the meteorology and chemistry of the atmosphere, including the effects of emission changes.
Experimental Methods for the Study of Hydrodynamic Cavitation

A review of traditional and novel experimental methods for the investigation of hydrodynamic cavitation is presented. The importance of water quality is discussed, along with its characterization and management. Methods for the direct and indirect experimental determination of cavitation inception are presented. Along with traditional optical visualization, methods of measuring developed cavitation are described, including point and surface electrical probes, optical bubble probes, acoustic measurements, and indirect measurements of noise and vibration. Recent developments in the use of ionizing radiation as a means to visualize cavitating flows are also discussed.
An Industry Perspective on Regulation and Reporting

Following a brief history of the role of socially responsible investment and its effects on both global business and the environment, a series of criteria for determining appropriate assets is collected from three companies. These criteria may be considered a starting basis for a standardized selection process, in order to better regulate and report on the industry .
Topological Analysis of DNA-Protein Complexes

A tangle consists of strings properly embedded in a 3-dimensional ball. Tangles have been used to model protein-bound DNA. The protein is represented by the 3D ball and the protein-bound DNA is represented by the strings embedded in the 3D ball. We review tangle analysis of protein-DNA complexes involving three or four segments of DNA.
X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis

X-ray fluorescence analysis has come a long way in the sixty years since Moseley began his classic experiments on the relation of x-ray wavelength to atomic number.(1) During this period several significant milestones were reached: in 1923 Coster and Von Hevesy confirmed the existence of element 72, Hafnium, from the x-ray spectra of Norwegian zircon;(2) in the 1930’s concentrations of a fraction of a percent could be measured; in the mid-1940’s the availability of high-powered sealed x-ray tubes, large single crystals, and geiger counters enabled Friedman and Birks to demonstrate a practical system for chemical analysis.(3) in the last twenty years, the technique has developed to a high degree of sophistication and is presently accepted as one of the most useful rapid and economical analytical methods available. The method is simple and straightforward with commercial equipment and a high vacuum is not required.
Effects of Green Tea Extract on Gene Expression in Human Hepatoma (HepG2) and Tongue Carcinoma (Cal-27) Cells

Some of the beneficial health effects of green tea extract can be traced to the ability of certain constituents in the extract to regulate gene expression. For example, green tea and the major green tea catechins have been shown to induce a variety of gene products related to anti-oxidant or other protective functions. The full range of genes that are activated by this pathway is still being explored, however, the molecular mechanisms involved have been reasonably well characterized. In addition to anti-oxidant genes, a number of genes involved in apoptosis have also been shown to respond to GTE, through both induction and repression. It is likely that the anti-proliferative/anti-cancer effects of GTE may be expressed, in part, via this mechanism. Finally, genes involved in drug metabolism, in particular, cytochrome P450 enzymes, are regulated by GTE, which may have implications for development of chemoprentive strategies using GTE.
Analysis of the Modular Multilevel Converter under Single Open-Circuit Fault in the Upper Active Switch of a Submodule

The modular multilevel converter (MMC) is one of the most promising topologies for medium- and high-voltage applications. Since the MMC is structured based on series connection of a number of identical Submodules (SMs), an open-switch fault in any of the SMs deteriorates the voltage and current. In this paper, the impacts of a single open-circuit fault in the upper active switch of a SM are focused. Under a faulty condition, the SM capacitor voltage magnitudes and arm current changing rates are analyzed. The analysis results provide design guidance to protect the MMC prior to the activation of any post-fault strategy. In addition, a current changing rate-based faulty arm locating method is proposed. Effectiveness of the proposed analysis method is investigated and verified in the PSCAD/EMTDC software environment.
Effects of arrival medication with tilmicosin phosphate on health and performance of newly received beef cattle.

Three trials were conducted to evaluate the use of tilmicosin phosphate (Micotil®) as a prophylactic medication for newly received, stressed beef cattle. In Trial 1, 57 beef calves (average initial BW=170 kg) were shipped to the research feedlot from Tennessee and either given no antibiotic at processing or treated with Micotil at 10 mg of tilmicosin phosphate/kg of BW. During a 28-d receiving period, treatment at processing with Micotil did not affect daily gain (P .50) daily gain during the trial; however, as in Trial 1, mass treatment with Micotil decreased (P<.01) the percentage of calves treated for respiratory disease from 32.8% to 12.1%. In Trial 3, two truckloads of beef calves (183 total; average initial BW=232 kg) shipped from Tennessee were allotted randomly to the same two treatments used in Trials 1 and 2 or to a third treatment that consisted of administration of Micotil at arrival processing if the rectal temperature of the calf was ≥39.7 o C. Treatment at arrival processing with Micotil, whether on a mass basis or based on rectal temperature, increased daily gain during the initial 28-d receiving period (P<.01) and a subsequent 28-d feeding period (P<.07). Dry matter intake was greater (P<.05) and feed:gain ratio was lower (P<.03) for both groups of Micotil-treated calves than for control calves for the overall 56-d trial. Both mass treatment (11.9%) and rectal temperature-based treatment (12.9%) of calves with Micotil decreased (P<.01) the percentage of calves treated for respiratory disease compared with controls (43.6%). Micotil seems to be a highly effective prophylactic medication for newly received beef cattle that have been subjected to shipping stress. Application of Micotil based on rectal temperature of calves at the time of processing was as effective as mass treatment
A Proposed Method to Obtain Surface Specificity with Pump–Probe and 2D Spectroscopies

Surfaces and interfaces are ubiquitous in nature. From cell membranes, to photovoltaic thin films, surfaces have important function in both biological and materials systems. Spectroscopic technique...
A heat and mass transport model of clay pot evaporative coolers for vegetable storage

Abstract Clay pot coolers are low-cost technologies that can prolong vegetable shelf-life by providing a cool and humid storage environment through evaporative cooling. A predictive performance model of these systems is not available for investigating the impact of design modifications on device performance. This study proposes transport models for pot-in-pot and pot-in-dish coolers that have been validated with experimental data from 17 field trials from Mali and Rwanda with maximum errors of less than 6% observed. Results show that the pot-in-pot and pot-in-dish devices consume 1.96 and 2.85 L/day of water, respectively. A parametric study was conducted to evaluate how the refrigeration efficiency and daily water consumption are affected by the size of the device, local wind speed, and the mass of vegetables stored in the cooler. Increasing local wind speeds provides a net positive impact on refrigeration efficiency despite the increased convective heating. In addition, the quantity of vegetable mass showed a negligible impact on daily water consumption. Insights from the model suggest that water consumption is more efficient for larger devices.
Are translated mathematics items a valid accommodation for dual language learners? Evidence from ECLS-K

Abstract When measuring academic skills among students whose primary language is not English, standardized assessments are often provided in languages other than English. The degree to which alternate-language test translations yield unbiased, equitable assessment must be evaluated; however, traditional methods of investigating measurement equivalence are susceptible to confounding group differences. The primary purposes of this study were to investigate differential item functioning (DIF) and item bias across Spanish and English forms of an assessment of early mathematics skills. Secondary purposes were to investigate the presence of selection bias and demonstrate a novel approach for investigating DIF that uses a regression discontinuity design framework to control for selection bias. Data were drawn from 1,750 Spanish-speaking Kindergarteners participating in the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 1998–1999, who were administered either the Spanish or English version of the mathematics assessment based on their performance on an English language screening measure. Evidence of selection bias—differences between groups in SES, age, approaches to learning, self-control, social interaction, country of birth, childcare, household composition and number in the home, books in the home, and parent involvement—highlighted limitations of a traditional approach for investigating DIF that only controlled for ability. When controlling for selection bias, only 11% of items displayed DIF, and subsequent examination of item content did not suggest item bias. Results provide evidence that the Spanish translation of the ECLS-K mathematics assessment is an equitable and unbiased assessment accommodation for young dual language learners.
Aging in Down Syndrome: Latest Clinical Advances and Prospects.

Down syndrome (DS), or trisomy 21, is the most common genetic cause of intellectual disability [...]
Characterization of 177Lu-Affibody-HSA bioconjugate for radionuclide therapy of EGFR-expressing head and neck carcinomas

1735 Objectives The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an attractive target for radionuclide therapy of disseminated head and neck carcinomas. EGFR specific Affibodies have shown excellent tumor localizations in PET and SPECT studies, but on the other hand, display extremely high kidney uptakes (>100%ID/g). This represents a critical concern for high doses to the radiation sensitive kidneys. We have recently demonstrated that a human serum albumin (HSA)-HER2 Affibody conjugate exhibits improved pharmacokinetics. The purpose of this study is to further explore whether radiolabeled EGFR-HSA bioconjugates could be suitable for radionuclide therapy of EGFR expressing tumors. Methods HSA was modified by a site-specific conjugation with DOTA-NHS and the bifunctional crosslinker Sulfo-SMCC. The EGFR Affibody analog Ac-Cys-ZEGFR:1907 was then covalently conjugated with the HSA through the sulfo-SMCC, and the resulting bioconjugate DOTA-HSA-ZEGFR:1907 was further radiolabeled with 64Cu and 177Lu. Radiometal labeled DOTA-HSA-ZEGFR:1907 was subjected to in vitro cell uptake and internalization studies using the human oral squamous carcinoma cell line SAS (n=5). PET, SPECT and biodistribution studies were examined using SAS tumor-bearing mice (n=4). Results Radiolabeling with 64Cu as well as with 177Lu resulted in high radiochemical yields (>70%). The in vitro stability of 177Lu-DOTA-HSA-ZEGFR:1907 in mouse serum was >80% at 168 h. Cell uptake studies displayed a significant (8.4% at 4 h) and specific uptake and the internalization of 177Lu-DOTA-HSA-ZEGFR:1907 could be verified. PET and SPECT using 64Cu-DOTA-HSA-ZEGFR:1907 and 177Lu-DOTA-HSA-ZEGFR:1907, respectively showed good tumor imaging contrasts. The imaging results were consistent with the biodistribution data: 177Lu-DOTA-HSA-ZEGFR:1907 displayed good tumor uptakes (5.1% ID/g) and high liver uptakes (31.5% ID/g) and relatively low kidney uptakes (8.5% ID/g) at 72 h p.i. Conclusions 177Lu-DOTA-HSA-ZEGFR:1907 is a promising agent for radionuclide therapy of EGFR expressing head and neck carcinomas
Adverse pregnancy outcomes after in vitro fertilization: effect of number of embryos transferred and plurality at conception.

Objective To evaluate risks for adverse pregnancy outcomes by number of embryos transferred (ET) and fetal heartbeats (FHB) in assisted reproductive technology–conceived singleton live births. Design Longitudinal cohort using cycles reported to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcomes Reporting System between 2004 and 2008 among women who were treated and gave birth in Massachusetts. Setting Not applicable. Patient(s) Assisted reproductive technology data on 6,073 births between 2004 and 2008 were linked to vital records and hospital data. Likelihood of ET ≥3 vs. 1–2, FHB >1 vs. 1, and risks of preterm birth (PTB, 1 were modeled with binary logistic regression using a backward-stepping algorithm, and presented as adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals). Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) ET ≥3, FHB >1, PTB, LBW, and SGA. Result(s) Higher ET was significantly more likely with older maternal age, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, assisted hatching, cleavage-stage embryos, and thawed embryos. The likelihood of FHB >1 with ≥3 ET vs. 1–2 ET was 2.04 (1.68–2.48). Risks of PTB and LBW with FHB >1 were 1.63 (1.27–2.09) and 1.81 (1.36–2.39), respectively; the risk of SGA was not significant. Nulliparity was associated with higher risks of PTB (1.34 [1.12–1.59]), LBW (1.48 [1.20–1.83]), and SGA (2.17 [1.69–2.78]). Conclusion(s) Number of embryos transferred was strongly associated with FHBs, with twice the risk of FHB >1 with ≥3 ET vs. 1–2 ET. Increasing FHBs were associated with significantly greater risks for PTB and LBW outcomes.
Improving the performance of genetic algorithms in automated discovery of parameters

Genetic Algorithms are generally compute intensive procedures that require the evaluation of many candidate solutions to a given problem. In the application area we study (routing and scheduling), the genetic algorithm sets parameters for a mathematical heuristic. To reduce the computational overhead of this approach, we developed three mechanisms for improving the performance of the genetic search. First, we employ a method of using multiple sharing evaluation functions, permitting the parallel investigation of multiple peaks in the search space. Second, we carry out function evaluation in parallel, using a network of heterogeneous processors. Third, a neural network system is employed to inject heuristic knowledge into the initial population of the genetic algorithm, resulting in relatively fast convergence. When the methods are used together, the result is high quality solutions with considerable speedup in computational time. Our overall system, called XVRP-PGA, is a distributed software system that demonstrates the increased efficiency of genetic algorithms in the automated discovery of parameters for mathematical heuristics, in the domain of computer-aided vehicle routing and scheduling problems.
Deriving implications of comparison theory for demographic phenomena: a first step in the analysis of migration.

This article describes the use of comparison theory to generate testable implications about demographic phenomena and to illustrate derives some implications of comparison theory for migration behavior. Using two strategies for deriving predictions known as the micromodel and macromodel strategies we obtain a variety of theoretical results for the three types of actors in migration situations--the migrant others in the origin country and others in the destination country--for bilateral relations between origin and destination countries and for the effects of the societal valued goods and the income distribution and its inequality on the differential propensity to emigrate among rich and poor. (EXCERPT)
A study on two colorimetric assays for Solanaceae alkaloids.

Procedures for two colorimetric assays for Solanaceae alkaloids are described. A comparison of the two colorimetric assays with the official assay of belladonna and stramonium is made. The merits of the assays are pointed out.
An In-situ X-ray Powder Diffraction Study of the Adsorption of Hydrofluorocarbons in Zeolites

A time resolved in-situ synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction study of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-134 (CF2HCF2H) and -134a (CF3CFH2) adsorption on NaY has been performed, as a function of the temperatu...
Keep your employees safe on the road

Purpose – The paper aims to examine health and safety of employees on the road.Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses the safety of employees on the road.Findings – Employees have a duty to drive safely but employers also have clear duties – not only to ensure that they do not put their people under pressure, but also to take all reasonable steps to reduce the chances of an accident occurring.Originality/value – The paper provides useful advice on the safety of employees on the road.
Making the Teacher Relevant and Effective in a Technology-Led Teaching and Learning Environment

Abstract Growing use of technology in the process of teaching and learning has made the role of teacher subservient if not irrelevant. The teacher has been reduced to the level of an informer and a facilitator. Added to these are the commercial trends which have made the teacher a paid service provider being compensated for his efforts; thus making the noble profession of teaching a commercial enterprise. It has also relegated the traditional function of the teacher as a guide and a mentor, influencing and shaping the lives of students, building their character on higher moral principles. The increasing use of technology has depersonalized the whole process of teaching and learning, taking away the moral high ground and pivotal position the teacher always held. This is a challenge faced by the teachers in a technology-intensive environment. This paper aims at analyzing these factors with a view to exploring ways to make the teacher relevant and effective in a technology-led teaching and learning environment.
A high-throughput study of PtNiZr catalysts for application in PEM fuel cells

Abstract The effects of adding Zr to PtNi oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalyst alloys were examined in a study aimed at probing the possibility of creating catalysts with enhanced resistance to corrosion in a PEM fuel cell environment. Samples consisting of pure Pt or PtNiZr alloys with a range of compositions (not exceeding 11 at.% Zr) were fabricated using co-sputter deposition. A high-throughput fabrication approach was used wherein 18 distinct thin film catalyst alloy samples with varying compositions were deposited onto a large-area substrate with individual Au current collector structures. A multi-channel pseudo-potentiostat allowed for the simultaneous quantitative study of catalytic activity for all 18 electrodes in a single test bath, a first for the study of ORR electrocatalysts. A properly stirred oxygenated 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte solution was used to provide each electrode with a steady-state flow of reactants during electrochemical evaluation. The onset potentials, absolute current density values, and Tafel analysis data obtained using this technique were compared with literature reports. The analyses showed that most PtNiZr alloys tested offered improvements over pure Pt, however those surfaces with a high mole fraction (>4 at.%) of Zr exhibited reduced activity that was roughly inversely correlated to the amount of Zr present. Film composition, morphology, and crystallographic properties were examined using X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (XEDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), SEM, and synchrotron X-ray diffraction. These data were then correlated with electrochemical data to elucidate the relationships between composition, structure, and relative performance for this ternary system.
Preliminary results at the ultradeep x-ray lithography beamline at CAMD

The Center for Advanced Micro structures and Devices (CAMD) at Louisiana State University supports one of the strongest programs in synchrotron radiation micro fabrication in the USA and, in particular, in deep x-ray lithography. Synchrotron radiation emitted form CAMD's bending magnets has photon energies in the range extending from the IR to approximately 20 keV. CAMD operates at 1.3 and 1.5 GeV, providing characteristic energies of 1.66 and 2.55 keV, respectively. CAMD bending magnets provide a relatively soft x-ray spectrum that limits the maximal structure height achievable within a reasonable exposure time to approximately 500 micrometers . In order to extend the x-ray spectrum to higher photon energies, a 5 pole 7T superconducting wiggler was inserted in one of the straight sections. A beam line and exposure station designed for ultra deep x-ray lithography was constructed and connected to the wiggler. First exposures into 1 mm and 2 mm thick PMMA resist using a graphite mask with 40 micrometers thick gold absorber has been completed.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Genetic Testing and Informed Consent

To the Editor. —We read with concern and considerable dismay the short discussion about tissue storage and reuse within the review of genetic testing for susceptibility to cancer by Dr Geller and coworkers. 1 What is presented is said to reflect "a number of consensus statements" agreeing that research should be done on banked tumor tissue without specific permission from the patient for the particular questions being asked. It is relevant to note that these "consensus statements" are largely the work of lawyers, bioethicists, and genetic counselors, "many of whom" are narrowly focused and without any direct experience in the science of cancer research. Completely lost within this rush to perceived social correctness is the devastating effect these restrictions would have on the emerging fields of cancer molecular epidemiology and somatic cell cancer genetics. One can only surmise that if these same committees had been charged with fixing a leaky faucet
Hall effect near the metal-insulator transition.

Hall-coefficient and dc-conductivity measurements have been made, with use of the van der Pauw geometry, on uncompensated Si:As samples on both sides of the metal-insulator transition (7.77\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{18}$N32.8\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{18}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}3}$, 8.55\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{18}$${\mathit{n}}_{\mathit{c}}$8.60\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{18}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}3}$) in the temperature range 300 to 0.5 K. Much of the data was taken in temperature sweeps between 4.2 and 0.5 K at magnetic fields between 0.5 and 15 T. The insulating samples exhibit variable-range-hopping (VRH) behavior for ${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{H}}$(N,H,T) that is similar to the VRH behavior of \ensuremath{\sigma}(N,H,T) and is Mott VRH in the temperature range of these experiments. The ratio of the Hall VRH characteristic temperature ${\mathit{T}}_{0\mathit{H}}$ and the Mott characteristic temperature ${\mathit{T}}_{0}$ as H\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0 and N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}${\mathit{n}}_{\mathit{c}\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ is in good agreement with the theoretical prediction of Gruenewald et al. that (${\mathit{T}}_{0\mathit{H}}$/${\mathit{T}}_{0}$${)}^{1/4}$=5/8. The metallic results indicate ${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{H}}$(n,H,T)\ensuremath{\simeq}${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{H}}$(n,H)[1+${\mathit{m}}_{\mathit{H}}$(n,H)${\mathit{T}}^{1/2}$] at sufficiently low temperature, analogous to earlier results for \ensuremath{\sigma}(n,H,T) and suggest a coefficient of the ${\mathit{T}}^{1/2}$ term for ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\sigma}}}_{\mathit{x}\mathit{y}}$ of order ${\mathit{m}}_{\mathit{x}\mathit{y}}$\ensuremath{\sim}1.5${\mathit{m}}_{\mathit{x}\mathit{x}}$. The values of ${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{H}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$(n, H\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0, T\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0 K) do not show the apparent critical behavior observed for Ge:Sb, Kr:Bi, and a-Si:Pt and are essentially in agreement with the weak-localization theoretical predictions of Fukuyama and of Shapiro and Abrahams. It is speculated that the differing ``critical behavior'' of these metal-insulator systems results from a spin-orbit contribution (extraordinary contribution) to the Hall coefficient.
Intranasal administration of plasmid DNA-coated nanoparticles results in enhanced immune responses

Intranasal immunization offers potential forthe elicitation of effective mucosal and systemic immune responses. In this study, a previously reported novel cationic nanoparticle engineered from a microemulsion precursor was further modified, optimized and applied intranasally to mice to explore its potential as a plasmid DNA (pDNA) vaccine delivery system. To this end, more uniform nanoparticles (around 100 nm) containing less cationic surfactant were developed. The pDNA-coated nanoparticles significantly enhanced the specific serum IgG and IgA titres to an expressed model antigen, beta-galactosidase, by 18-28 and 25-30 fold, respectively, when compared with naked pDNA alone. An enhanced splenocyte proliferative response was also observed after immunization with the pDNA-coated nanoparticles. It was concluded that these plasmid DNA-coated nanoparticles may have potential for immunization via the nasal route.