cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Limited efficacy of BMS-911543 in a murine model of Janus kinase 2 V617F myeloproliferative neoplasm

Activation of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), frequently as a result of the JAK2 V617F mutation, is a characteristic feature of the classical myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia, and myelofibrosis, and it is thought to be responsible for the constitutional symptoms associated with these diseases. BMS-911543 is a JAK2-selective inhibitor that induces apoptosis in JAK2-dependent cell lines and inhibits the growth of CD34 + progenitor cells from patients with JAK2 V617F -positive MPN. To explore the clinical potential of this inhibitor, we tested BMS-911543 in a murine retroviral transduction–transplantation model of JAK2 V617F MPN. Treatment was initiated at two dose levels (3 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) when the hematocrit exceeded 70%. Following the first week, white blood cell counts were reduced to normal in the high-dose group and were maintained well below the levels in vehicle-treated mice throughout the study. However, BMS-911543 had no effect on red blood cell parameters. After 42 days of treatment, the proportion of JAK2 V617F -positive cells in hematopoietic tissues was identical or slightly increased compared with controls. Plasma concentrations of interleukin 6, interleukin 15, and tumor necrosis factor α were elevated in MPN mice and reduced in the high-dose treatment group, whereas other cytokines were unchanged. Inhibitor activity after dosing was confirmed in a cell culture assay using the plasma of dosed mice and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 flow cytometry. Collectively, these results show that BMS-911543 has limited activity in this murine model of JAK2 V617F -driven MPN and suggest that targeting JAK2 alone may be insufficient to achieve effective disease control.
A marketing maturity model for IT: building a customer-centric IT organization

Despite a variety of management tools, valuable management prescriptions, and the desire of information technology (IT) managers and business managers alike to build a better relationship, the current state of the IT-business relationship is far from ideal. Although many believe the difficulty in managing this relationship is rooted in differences in knowledge, culture, motivation, and language, we argue in this paper that the key to managing relationships is in the frame of reference and that a marketing perspective can prove valuable. We outline how concepts from marketing (e.g., price, product, customer, place, and promotion) are useful within an IT context and propose a marketing maturity model for IT executives to assess how to enhance their relationship with their business counterparts.
Optimum Stacking Sequence Design of Composite Sandwich Panel Using Genetic Algorithms

In the present study, both critical buckling load maximization and face-sheet laminate thickness minimization problems for the composite sandwich panel, subjected to bi-axial compressive loading under various imposed constraints have been investigated using genetic algorithms. In the previously published work, the optimization of simple composite laminate panels with only even number of laminae has been considered [1, 3]. The present work allows the optimization of a composite sandwich panel with both even and odd number of laminae in the face-sheet laminates. Also, the effects of the bending-twisting coupling terms (D16 and D26) in bending stiffness matrix which were neglected in the previous studies [1, 2, 3], are considered in the present work for exact solutions. In addition effect of both balanced and unbalanced face-sheet laminates on the optimum solutions have also been investigated, whereas only balanced laminates were considered in the previous studies [1, 2, 3].
Bayesian selection of important features for feedforward neural networks

Abstract This paper presents a probability of error based method of determining the saliency (usefulness) of input features and hidden nodes. We show that the partial derivative of the output nodes with respect to a given input feature yields a sensitivity measure for the probability of error. This partial derivative provides a saliency metric for determining the sensitivity of the feedforward network trained with a mean squared error learning procedure to a given input feature.
A Model Predicting the Evolution of Ice Particle Size Spectra and Radiative Properties of Cirrus Clouds. Part II: Dependence of Absorption and Extinction on Ice Crystal Morphology.

This study builds upon the microphysical modeling described in Part 1 by deriving formulations for the extinction and absorption coefficients in terms of the size distribution parameters predicted from the micro-physical model. The optical depth and single scatter albedo of a cirrus cloud can then be determined, which, along with the asymmetry parameter, are the input parameters needed by cloud radiation models. Through the use of anomalous diffraction theory, analytical expressions were developed describing the absorption and extinction coefficients and the single scatter albedo as functions of size distribution parameters, ice crystal shapes (or habits), wavelength, and refractive index. The extinction coefficient was formulated in terms of the projected area of the size distribution, while the absorption coefficient was formulated in terms of both the projected area and mass of the size distribution. These properties were formulated as explicit functions of ice crystal geometry and were not based on an 'effective radius.' Based on simulations of the second cirrus case study described in Part 1, absorption coefficients predicted in the near infrared for hexagonal columns and rosettes were up to 47% and 71% lower, respectively, than absorption coefficients predicted by using equivalent area spheres. This resulted in single scatter albedos in the near-infrared that were considerably greater than those predicted by the equivalent area sphere method. Reflectances in this region should therefore be underestimated using the equivalent area sphere approach. Cloud optical depth was found to depend on ice crystal habit. When the simulated cirrus cloud contained only bullet rosettes, the optical depth was 142% greater than when the cloud contained only hexagonal columns. This increase produced a doubling in cloud albedo. In the near-infrared (IR), the single scatter albedo also exhibited a significant dependence on ice crystal habit. More research is needed on the geometrical properties of ice crystals before the influence of ice crystal shape on cirrus radiative properties can be adequately understood. This study provides a way of coupling the radiative properties of absorption, extinction, and single scatter albedo to the microphysical properties of cirrus clouds. The dependence of extinction and absorption on ice crystal shape was not just due to geometrical differences between crystal types, but was also due to the effect these differences had on the evolution of ice particle size spectra. The ice particle growth model in Part 1 and the radiative properties treated here are based on analytical formulations, and thus represent a computationally efficient means of modeling the microphysical and radiative properties of cirrus clouds.
Reactions of 1-Hydroxy-1-methylethyl Radicals with NO2-: Time-Resolved Electron Spin Resonance

The reaction of the α-hydroxyalkyl radical of 2-propanol (1-hydroxy-1-methylethyl radical) with nitrite ions was characterized. A product of the reaction was assigned as the adduct nitro radical anion, [HO−C(CH3)2NO2]•-. This radical was identified using time-resolved electron spin resonance (TRESR). The radical's magnetic parameters, the nitrogen hyperfine coupling constant (aN = 26.39 G), and its g-factor (2.0052) were the same as those of the nitro radical anion previously discovered in •OH spin-trapping experiments with the aci-anion of (CH3)2CHNO2. Production of [HO−C(CH3)2NO2]•- was determined to be 38% ± 4% of the reaction of (CH3)2C•−OH with nitrite. The reason why this fraction was less than 100% was rationalized by invoking the competitive addition at oxygen, which forms [HO−C(CH3)2ONO]•-, followed by a rapid loss of •NO. Furthermore, by taking this mechanism into account, the bimolecular rate constant for the total reaction of (CH3)2C•−OH with nitrite at reaction pH 7 was determined to be 1.6 ×...
(3H)‐Dihydrotestosterone in catecholamine neurons of rat brain stem: Combined localization by autoradiography and formaldehyde‐induced fluorescence

A combined formaldehyde-induced fluorescence (FIF)-autoradiography procedure was used to determine how and where the androgen, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), is associated with catecholamine systems in the rat brain. With this dual localization method, (/sup 3/H)-DHT target sites can be visualized in relation to catecholamine perikarya and terminals. In the hindbrain, catecholamine neurons adjacent to the fourth ventricle (group A4), the nucleus (n.) olivaris superior (group A5), the n. parabranchialis medialis (group A7), and in the locus coeruleus (group A6) and subcoeruleal regions, as well as in the substantia grisea centralis, concentrate (/sup 3/H)-DHT in their nuclei. (/sup 3/H)-DHT target neurons appear to be innervated by numerous catecholamine terminals in the following hindbrain regions: n. motorius dorsalis nervi vagi, n. tractus solitarii, n. commissuralis, n. raphe pallidus, n. olivaris inferior, the ventrolateral portion of the substantia grisea centralis, n. cuneiformis, and the ventrolateral reticular formation in the caudal mesencephalon. In the forebrain, (/sup 3/H)-DHT concentrates in nuclei of catecholamine neurons located in the n. arcuatus and n. periventricularis (group A12). In addition, (/sup 3/H)-DHT target neurons appear to be innervated by numerous catecholamine terminals in the following forebrain regions: n. periventricularis rotundocellularis, n. paraventricularis, n. dorsomedialis, n. periventricularis, area retrochiasmatica, n. interstititalis striaemore » terminalis (ventral portion), and n. amygdaloideus centralis. The disclosure of a morphologic association between (/sup 3/H)-DHT target sites and certain brain catecholamine systems suggests a close functional interdependence between androgens and catecholamines.« less
Structure of the stridulatory apparatus and analysis of the sound produced by Smicronyx fulvus and Smicronyx sordidus (coleoptera, curculionidae, erirrhininae, smicronychini).

Wing folding spicules, elytral binding patches, and elytral locking devices of adult male and female seed weevils, Smicronyx fulvus LeConte and S. sordidus LeConte, involved in stridulation are described. Sound is produced by both sexes of the two species when the plectrum, paired conical teeth located along the anterior margin of the dorsally elevated seventh sternite, is struck against an elongate file, the pars stridens, on the under surface of the apical portion of each elytron. A second plectrum, on the sixth tergite, is well-developed in males of both species and is used by males to produce sound before and during mating. Sex-specific and species-specific differences in the sound produced is attributed to structural variation in the pars stridens and the elytra. The pars stridens determines frequencies, while the elytra may further modify the sound. The frequency range for male S. fulvus is 1,000 cycles per second (cps) through 13,000 cps and for male S. sordidus is 2,500 cps through 13,000 cps. The frequency range for female S. fulvus is 2,000 cps through 11,500 cps and for female S. sordidus is 900 cps through 11,500 cps.
Accountability and Innovation: Challenges for Agricultural Economists

HE 1960s might be called a Golden Era in the support of public programs in teaching, extension, and research in the U. S. The scene shifted dramatically with the arrival of the 1970s, and support became harder to get. I will discuss briefly some of the major reasons for the shift in support. The paper will focus on obtaining future support for the kinds of programs that agricultural economists conduct. The discussion will emphasize accountability, because I believe accountability will largely determine how much support agricultural economics or any other discipline will obtain in the years ahead. I will not be concentrating on administrative problems; I am convinced that accountability is a problem for every member of this profession. A secondary theme of the paper is the need for agricultural economists to be more daring, more innovative. Among other things, accountability involves using funds for valuable, productive purposes; doing so requires innovation.
The social disorder of the broadened concept of marketing

The concept of “social order” is fundamental to the stability of most social systems. In this paper, three dimensions of social order—drawn predominantly from the writings of Talcott Parsons—are analyzed in terms of how they are influenced by broadened marketing. The authors maintain that the widespread acceptance and application of broadened marketing,defined as marketing, is inconsistant with social order and could ultimately erode the reputation of all marketing practioners. Furthermore, such a series of events could lead to the severe regulation of marketing practices and the development of inhibitions by bright young students regarding the formal study of marketing.
Innominate arterial rupture distal to anomalous origin of left carotid artery

Isolated innomnate arterial rupture from blunt trauma is rare. We present the case of a pregnant woman with an isolated injury to the innominate artery distal to an anomalous origin of the left common carotid artery. A safe operative technique is described.
Repeat abortions in New York City, 2010.

This study aims to describe factors associated with the number of past abortions obtained by New York City (NYC) abortion patients in 2010. We calculated rates of first and repeat abortion by age, race/ethnicity, and neighborhood-level poverty and the mean number of self-reported past abortions by age, race/ethnicity, neighborhood-level poverty, number of living children, education, payment method, marital status, and nativity. We used negative binomial regression to predict number of past abortions by patient characteristics. Of the 76,614 abortions reported for NYC residents in 2010, 57 % were repeat abortions. Repeat abortions comprised >50 % of total abortions among the majority of sociodemographic groups we examined. Overall, mean number of past abortions was 1.3. Mean number of past abortions was higher for women aged 30–34 years (1.77), women with ≥5 children (2.50), and black non-Hispanic women (1.52). After multivariable regression, age, race/ethnicity, and number of children were the strongest predictors of number of past abortions. This analysis demonstrates that, although socioeconomic disparities exist, all abortion patients are at high risk for repeat unintended pregnancy and abortion.
A multi-rail shared error ADC with pipeline structure for DC-DC converter digital controller in 0.13µm CMOS technology

This paper presents the design and measurement results of an error ADC with a pipeline structure for DC-DC converter digital controller in 0.13µm technology. The proposed error ADC shared by three voltage rails through an analog MUX. The error signal is amplified by a differential amplifier and a switched capacitor amplifier with a total gain of 10. The amplified error signal is then digitized with a conventional 5b pipeline ADC. The ADC operates at a sampling frequency of 12 MSPS, draws 3mA from a single 1.5V power supply with an area of 500µm by 600µm. Metal fringe capacitors are used for switched-capacitor circuit.
Diversionary Foreign Policy in Democratic Systems

This article examines how reelection incentives influence foreign policy decision making in democratic states. A formal model characterizes how future electoral prospects affect a government's decision to undertake adventurous foreign policies. When governments are assured of reelection, they make unbiased decisions considering only international factors. Decision making is similarly unbiased when governments have no prospects of reelection. When the voters' evaluation of foreign policy outcomes could have an effect on election results then governments are biased towards violent, adventurous foreign policy projects. Institutional constraints are shown to reduce the magnitude of these biases. The bias in foreign policy decisions at the end of the electoral cycle influences decision making in other countries. As a nation approaches the end of its electoral cycle other nations are more conciliatory and less confrontational towards it. With endogenous crisis formation, the model provides an explanation for the empirical phenomenon that democracies are more likely to become involved in war early in their electoral term.
Hyperinsulinemia in African-American Adolescents Compared With Their American White Peers Despite Similar Insulin Sensitivity: A reflection of upregulated β-cell function?

OBJECTIVE —African-American (AA) children are hyperinsulinemic and insulin resistant compared with American white (AW) children. Previously, we demonstrated that insulin secretion relative to insulin sensitivity was ∼75% higher in AA compared with AW children, suggesting that hyperinsulinemia in AA children is not merely a compensatory response to lower insulin sensitivity. The aim of the present investigation was to assess whether glucose-stimulated insulin response is higher in AA versus AW adolescents who have comparable in vivo insulin sensitivity. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS —The hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic and hyperglycemic clamp techniques were utilized to assess first- and second-phase insulin secretion. Insulin secretion relative to insulin sensitivity was calculated as the glucose disposition index. RESULTS —AA adolescents compared with their AW peers with comparable insulin sensitivity and body composition had higher first-phase insulin concentrations. CONCLUSIONS —The quantitative relationship between insulin sensitivity and first-phase insulin appears to differ among AA and AW adolescents.
Use of Mass Conservation and Critical Dividing Streamline concepts for Efficient Objective Analysis of Winds in Complex Terrain

Abstract Observed winds and temperature profiles can be used to generate three-dimensional, mass-conserving wind fields that reflect topographical influences. The concept of critical dividing streamlines is used to define quasi-horizontal, flow-confining two-dimensional surfaces. Adjustment toward two-dimensional nondivergence on those surfaces forces flow around obstacles under stable conditions when some flow surfaces intersect higher terrain features. Unlike most mass-conserving wind models, the approach described here includes objective evaluation of the effects of atmospheric stability. Efficiency is achieved by casting the three-dimensional problem as several two-dimensional problems and by using an iterative scheme to adjust toward nondivergence. A 20 × 20 × 5 gridpoint analysis requires approximately 2 min on an IBM-AT personal computer.
Cor Triatriatum Sinister and Persistent Left Cranial Vena Cava in a Kitten

An approximately 8-week-old, 0.61 kg, male Bengal kitten was evaluated by the referring veterinarian for a 5-day history of sneezing, lethargy, anorexia, coughing, and dyspnea. Thoracic radiographs revealed cardiomegaly with left atrial enlargement, a patchy distribution of pulmonary edema, and loss of abdominal detail.
25Mg NMR studies of yeast enolase and rabbit muscle pyruvate kinase.

Abstract 25Mg NMR spectroscopy was used to study the interactions of the activating cations with their respective binding sites in the enzymes yeast enolase and rabbit muscle pyruvate kinase (PK). Titration of Mg2+ with enolase allows for the calculation of 1 T 2 for Mg2+ bound at site I of 1510 s−1 and a quadrupolar coupling constant χ = 0.30 MHz. Titration of Mg2+ with enolase in the presence of 2-phosphoglycerate (PGA) and Zn2+, where Zn2+ binds specifically at site I, gives a 1 T 2 for Mg2+ bound at site II of 4000 s−1 (χ = 0.49 MHz). The Mg2+ at site II appears to be more anisotropic than Mg2+ at site I. The titration of site I of the enolase-Mg-PGA-Mg complex with Zn2+ or Mn2+ shows a simple displacement of the Mg2+. No paramagnetic effects by Mn2+ on 25Mg relaxation were observed. Temperature studies of the 25Mg resonance show that fast exchange of the Mg2+ occurs under these conditions. From the lack of a paramagnetic effect, the distance between the cations at sites I and II must be more than 6–9 A. This distance limits the location, hence the function, of the cation at site II for catalytic activity. Titration of Mg2+ with PK gives a 1 T 2 for bound Mg2+ of 2200 s−1 (χ = 0.24 MHz). A titration of Mg2+ with PK in the presence of the inhibitor oxalate gives a 1 T 2 of 400 s−1. The temperature dependence of 25Mg relaxation in the PK-Mg-oxalate complex is consistent with slow exchange (Ea = 6.1 ± 1.6 kcal/ mol). The enzyme-bound cation is more tightly sequestered by the addition of a ligand that binds directly to the cation. An investigation of the 25Mg relaxation in the PK-Mn-oxalate-Mg-ATP complex, where the Mg2+ is bound to the nucleotide and the Mn2+ was enzyme bound, was not successful due to precipitation of PK under experimental conditions and the short T2 relaxation for 25Mg in this complex. The applications of 25Mg NMR have been useful in partially describing the properties of the bound Mg2+ in these two metal-requiring enzymes.
The Enactment of the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982: A Multiple Perspectives Explanation

The Nuclear Waste Policy Act (NWPA) is generally analyzed from the distinct perspective of any given actor involved in the nuclear waste policymaking process. Yet, these perspectives often rest on totally different models of decisionmaking. This article applies a multiple perspective explanation as developed by Allison (1971) and Linstone (1984) to the NWPA and explains policy outcomes by reference to three models of decisionmaking: rational actor, organizational processes and governmental politics. Commonalities and points of disjointure in the three models are highlighted and prospects for future nuclear waste disposal policy development are assessed using an integrated decisionmaking framework.
A conceptual model of diet selection as an ecosystem process

Abstract Diet selection is treated as an ecosystem process with important implications for ecosystem structure and function as well as for community and population interactions. Diet selection has been viewed both as a strategic and tactical problem. Major diet selection strategies include energy maximization, feeding time minimization, and optimization of nutritional balance. Tactics of diet selection vary with species and environments and are numerous. The model presented incorporates these tactics within a framework of major diet selection components (food availability, consumer food requirement, consumer preference, and consumer selectivity) and the variables affecting these components. Each component is dealt with separately; the variables thought to be most critical for each component are presented along with evidence concerning their mode of action. The major components are then integrated by means of a diet selection model. The operation of the model and its utility are discussed.
Dosimetric verification of a 3-D electron pencil beam dose calculation algorithm

A three‐dimensional electron beam dose calculational algorithm implemented for use in a three‐dimensional treatment planning system is described. The 3‐D electron beam calculations have been in use clinically for more than seven years. The algorithm uses a pencil beam model based on small angle multiple Coulomb scattering theory. Our implementation allows volumetric CT‐based inhomogeneity corrections and provides for irregular field shapes (fields shaped with cerrobend cutouts) and the use of bolus. As part of NCI‐funded work evaluating the state of the art in electron beamtreatment planning, extensive algorithm verification was undertaken and results of these tests for our implementation are presented.
A Comparative Study of Metamodeling Techniques for Predictive Process Control of Welding Applications

Metamodeling is investigated as a tool for predictive process control of welding applications. The motivation for predictive process control is to incorporate physics-based models in place of empirical models that are statistically derived from repeated physical tests. Predictive process control promises to be particularly useful for high flexibility applications, such as frequent modifications of material or geometry. One of the primary challenges is that accurate physics-based, thermal models of the welding process usually require computationally expensive software such as FLUENT [1], while faster models, such as the analytical models of Rosenthal [2], are typically less accurate. Metamodeling or surrogate modeling is investigated as an alternative modeling technique for combining the accuracy of the detailed models with the speed of the faster models, thereby enabling real-time control of the welding process. Four of the most promising metamodeling techniques—polynomial regression, multivariate adaptive regression splines, kriging, and support vector regression—are selected based on a set of preliminary criteria. Each technique is used to build surrogate models of a representative welding process, based on FLUENT data obtained with statistically designed experiments. The techniques are compared with respect to accuracy, speed of model construction, and speed of prediction. Implications for predictive process control of a welding process are also discussed.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Synergistic induction of cancer cell death and reduction of clonogenic resistance by cisplatin and FK228

Abstract Human urinary bladder cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the United States, and the long-term disease-free survival in patients is still suboptimal with current chemotherapeutic regimens. Development of effective chemotherapeutic regimens is crucial to decrease the morbidity and mortality of this cancer. The goal of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of FK228 in increasing cisplatin’s ability to induce bladder cancer cell death and reduce drug resistance. Our study revealed that FK228 combined with cisplatin synergistically induced cell death and reduced clonogenic survival of human urinary bladder cancer cells. The Erk-Nox pathway played an important role in mediating signals highly increased by this combined treatment to induce significantly-elevated levels of reactive oxygen species, leading to substantially-induced caspase activation and synergistically-increased death in cancer cells. Cisplatin was able to enhance the ability of FK228 to significantly reduce glutathione, indicating a novel activity of combined FK228 and cisplatin in reducing drug resistance. The ability of combined FK228 and cisplatin to synergistically induce cell death and reduce clonogenic survival was also applicable to colon cancer cells. Hence, combined use of FK228 with cisplatin should be considered in development of therapeutic strategies to control urinary bladder cancer and other cancer development and recurrence.
Zooming, a Practical Strategy for Improving the Quality of Multidimensional NMR Spectra

Abstract A method has been developed, which is termed “zooming,” that provides high digital resolution in any region selected from an n -dimensional data set. The region selected can be of arbitrary size (any number of data points). In the zooming approach as implemented in the “ZOOM” computer program, the desired region of the frequency-domain spectrum is first extracted. Next, a “pseudo-FID” for the selected region is constructed by n -dimensional inverse Fourier transformation. The resulting time-domain data block is zero filled in n -dimensions and finally Fourier transformed back to the frequency domain. The basic principles behind the zooming approach are described, and its application to the analysis of 2D and 3D NMR data from proteins is demonstrated. Zooming is expected to be of even greater importance in the analysis of higher-dimensional NMR data where problems of acquisition and processing times and data storage space become more pronounced. The implementation described here is for spectra consisting of real or absolute-value data; at least one zero fill must have been applied in each dimension during the initial processing of the data.
Functional analysis of a RING domain ankyrin repeat protein that is highly expressed during flower senescence

A gene encoding a RING zinc finger ankyrin repeat protein (MjXB3), a putative E3 ubiquitin ligase, is highly expressed in petals of senescing four o'clock (Mirabilis jalapa) flowers, increasing >40,000-fold during the onset of visible senescence. The gene has homologues in many other species, and the Petunia homologue is strongly up-regulated in senescing Petunia corollas. Silencing the expression of this gene in Petunia, using virus-induced gene silencing, resulted in a 2 d extension in flower life. In Mirabilis, a 2 kb promoter region, 5' upstream of the MjXB3 gene, was isolated. The promoter sequence included putative binding sites for many DNA-binding proteins, including the bZIP, Myb, homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip), MADS-box, and WRKY transcription factors. The construct containing a 1 kb promoter region immediately upstream of the MjXB3 gene drove the strongest expression of the beta-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene in a transient expression assay. In Petunia, GUS expression under the control of this heterologous promoter fragment was specific to senescing flowers. The Mirabilis promoter GUS construct was tested in other flower species; while GUS activity in carnation petals was high during senescence, no expression was detected in three monocotyledonous flowers--daylily (Hemerocallis 'Stella d'Oro'), daffodil (Narcissus pseudonarcissus 'King Alfred'), and orchid (Dendrobium 'Emma White').
Supply and Demand Forecasting of Blast Furnace Gas Based on Artificial Neural Network in Iron and Steel Works

Abstract.Blast Furnace Gas (BFG) system of an iron and steel works was considered. The relationship of gas amount and factors about BFG generation and consumption was analyzed by grey correlationand the BP neural network prediction model of blast furnace gaswas established based on artificial neural network for forecasting thesupply and demandof BFGinthe iron and steel-making processes.The scientific forecasting of BFG generation and consumption in each process was discussed undernormal production and accidental maintenance condition. The results show that established forecasting model is high precision, small errors, and can solve effectively actual production of BFG prediction problem and decreasing BFG flare, providing theoretical basis for establishing reasonable plans in the iron and steel works.
Rapid methods for the estimation of rosin and fatty acids in tall oil

A rapid method for the estimation of the rosin acids, and methods of calculating the composition of Tall Oil are described. The significance of the existing analytical methods for the estimation of fatty acids, rosin acids, and unsaponifiable matter in Tall Oil is given, together with a brief description of the properties of these three components. Typical analyses of crude and refined tall oils, and a bibliography pertaining to the composition of Tall Oil are appended.
QuEChERS sample preparation followed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry for rapid screening of dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt in avian egg tissue

A quantification method was developed for the determination of dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt (DOSS) in avian egg samples based on a QuEChERS extraction technique followed by UPLC-MS/MS analysis. DOSS is an anionic surfactant that is part of the Corexit® 9500 dispersive mixture that prevents the formation of oil slicks on water bodies. It was extensively used when the Deepwater Horizon rig exploded and a large amount of crude oil was released into the Gulf of Mexico. QuEChERS provided a simple, effective and time saving sample preparation method prior to analysis without reducing analytical sensitivity and became an excellent substitute to lengthy traditional extraction methods. Weak anionic exchange cleanup significantly reduced matrix effects and improved analyte sensitivity. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography provided an effective separation method, while MS/MS provided the necessary selectivity and increased sensitivity. Our method achieved baseline separation of DOSS, surrogate (sodium octyl...
The choice between rights and underwritten equity offerings: Evidence from Chinese stock markets ☆

Abstract We study the choice and valuation effects of alternative flotation methods using a sample of Chinese firms that must meet the return on equity (ROE) thresholds set by the government to raise equity capital. The ROE requirement, although changed over time, seems to play an important role on the valuation and performance of seasoned equity offerings. The analysis of 219 rights and 75 underwritten offerings between 2000 and 2004 shows that Chinese firms that are not qualified for the flotation method with a higher ROE requirement suffer the most at announcement and experience significantly lower buy-and-hold abnormal returns than those that are qualified. Our results suggest that the freedom to choose their preferred flotation method may be valuable to firms that meet the higher ROE requirement. Finally, our probit models identify several determinants of the choice of flotation methods.
Revisiting the Children of Twins: Can They Be Used to Resolve the Environmental Effects of Dyadic Parental Treatment on Child Behavior?

The children of twins (COT) design has been proposed as an alternative to the adoption study to resolve the direct effects of parental treatment from secondary parent-child association due to genetic factors. The basic analytical approach compares the parent-offspring correlation with the correlation between children and the monozygotic (MZ) twins of their parents. We show that a significant difference between these correlations does not imply direct environmental causality when the measured parental treatment in question is dyadic, that is, influenced by both parents even when mating is random. Nongenetic causal effects yield very similar patterns of correlation to secondary genetic effects on dyadic treatment variables. The fact that many candidate environments, such as parental divorce, are dyadic gives reason to question the interpretation of their correlations with behavior in the children of twins.
Inlet subcooling effect on heat and mass transfer characteristics in a laminar film flow

Abstract In this paper, a mathematical model for simultaneous heat and mass transfer in an ammonia–water, falling film type of absorber is presented. A nondimensional analysis shows that the overall absorption process can be decomposed into two basic processes: absorption owing to the subcooling of the liquid solution, and absorption owing to the cooling from the wall. Empirical correlations for heat and mass transfer coefficients were developed for film flows with short mixing distances. Numerical results show that both heat and mass coefficients are affected by the subcooling of the inlet solution as well as by the film thickness.
Hodgkin's disease presenting in epitrochlear nodes

Two cases of Hodgkin's Disease (HD) presenting in epitrochlear nodes are described, and compared to four similar cases gleaned from the literature. The nodular sclerosis type of HD was present in 5 of the 6 patients. Of the four patients staged with laparotomy, two had infradiaphragmatic disease. A treatment approach using radiation alone for patients with disease limited to the epitroclear region is presented, and anatomical considerations of the treatment technique are given.
Determined self-intervention: A comment on Secord

Conduites volontaristes et autorenforcement, composantes de la reussite sociale. Critique de la critique des presupposes du behaviorisme en tant que mis en acte dans la vie personnelle: autocontrole et autorenforcement. Du cognitisme a la Secord au behaviorisme radical de skinner
Body water estimates in neonatal polycythemia.

To determine whether neonatal polycythemia and its treatment by partial exchange transfusion affect body water estimates, 10 normocythemic and eight polycythemic neonates were studied within 12 hours of birth. Total body water, extracellular water, and plasma volume were estimated immediately prior to and following exchange. Intracellular and interstitial water contents were calculated. There were no significant differences between normocythemic and preexchange polycythemic neonates in mean total body water, extracellular water, interstitial water, and intracellular water contents. In the polycythemic group, exchange did not affect mean total body water, but was associated with decreases in mean extracellular water and mean interstitial water and an increase in mean intracellular water. Mean transcapillary escape rate of T-1824 was not affected by exchange but was quite rapid both before (35±SE 3%/hr) and after the procedure (30±4.9%/hr). These data suggest that moderate polycythemia in normal term neonates does not affect total and extravascular body water estimates, but that a fluid shift from the extracellular to the intracellular space may accompany the exchange procedure.
Free Electron Lasers and magnetic materials

Abstract Free Electron Lasers (FELs), offering coherent, tunable, high power submillimeter radiation, open exciting areas of magnetic materials research. At the same time, FELs have benefited from magnetic materials research - specifically the modern development of rare earth cobalt and neodymium-iron-boron permanent magnet materials. Application of these materials to a new type of short period FEL undulator is described.
High-speed programmable optical attenuator

A high-speed programmable optical attenuator is introduced that can provide high dynamic range and high resolution attenuation control. An acousto-optic Bragg cell has been used to realize the desired attenuator. Various practical architectures have been proposed to prove the concept. A typical acousto-optic deflector (AOD) based design offers a dynamic range of 46.11 dB. The average resolution is 3.08 dB/volt whereas the best resolution achieved is 0.39 dB/volt. The response time of the AO attenuator is in the sub microsecond(s) regime, and was observed as low as 0.175 microsecond(s) . The polarization dependent loss was about 0.7 dB, whereas the excess losses were about 1.5 dB.
Reduced renal function and sleep-disordered breathing in community-dwelling elderly men.

Background Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and death in chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the association between mild reductions in renal function and SDB is uncertain.
Pustular Necrotizing Angiitis

Two patients had generalized pustules which subsequently ruptured producing punched-out, necrotic ulcers. A clinical diagnosis of necrotizing angiitis was made which was confirmed by skin biopsy. Results of all viral, bacterial, and immunological studies were negative. Both patients responded rapidly to large doses of corticosteroids.
The Perils of Public Health Regulation

Policies that are designed to promote public health should not use coercion to discourage unhealthy decision making. Though public health officials may be experts about medical regularities in a population, they are not experts about which dietary or lifestyle choices are best for particular indiviuals. Experts in regulatory agencies also face several political incentives that undermine their ability effectively to promote health at the population level. Furthermore, without consent, coercive public health policies are extremely difficult to justify to citizens. For these reasons, states should not enforce coercive public health policies, even if the state subsidizes citizens' healthcare. Many of the same reasons to reject coercive public health regulations are also reasons to reject other coercive paternalistic policies.
Public health nurses'responses to domestic violence : A report from the enhanced domestic abuse intervention project.

Public health nurses (PHNs) can play an important role in the detection of domestic violence. This study examines whether the introduction of a domestic violence assessment protocol by public health nurses in a maternal and child health visiting program increases the identification and referral rates of women experiencing domestic violence. Data collected from case files during the baseline year prior to the initiation of the protocol were compared to case file information after the protocol had been implemented. When the protocol was used, there was a higher rate of identification, although the difference was not statistically significant. Significantly more women, however, were provided with information about domestic violence resources after the protocol was in place, and significantly more women were referred to services in the second year after the protocol had been implemented. This study provides support for the use of a domestic violence protocol to improve the public health nursing response to domestic violence.
Impotence caused by pudendal arteriovenous fistula

Partial impotence in a twenty-year-old was found, on angiography, to be the result of an arteriovenous fistula of the internal pudendal artery. This condition was corrected by corpus cavernosum revascularization.
On analyzing and improving COPE performance

COPE is a new architecture for unicasts in wireless mesh networks that employs opportunistic network coding to improve total throughput. Katti et al. showed through experiments that this system significantly improves the throughput of wireless networks with UDP traffic, and several attempts have been made to analyze the COPE performance. However, they are not completely satisfactory. In this paper, we give a new analysis of COPE, and argue that the key to COPE's success lies in the interaction between COPE and the MAC protocol. The local fairness enforced by the MAC protocol among competing nodes play an important role here. Based on the analysis, we also propose a simple modification to the COPE system that can further improve the network throughput.
The relationship of weathering cracks to split-line orientation in bone.

The essential identity of weathering cracks and split-lines is demonstrated experimentally. Innominate bones, left in the open to weather, developed cracks similar to the split-line orientation typically observed in the same region. These bones were decalcified and intermittent split-lines prepared along their course. The orientation of the split-lines always corresponds to the weathering splits. The same results were obtained with bird and mammal bones collected in the field and showing weathering cracks. The same also applies to cracks in bones of a gorilla which had been partly defleshed and salted down for preservation. Apparently any process which shrinks bone will produce cracks with the same orientation as split-lines. Possibilities for split-line analysis of fossil and archeological bone are opened up by these experiments.
Aspect and the shape of action in Old Russian

L'A. examine l'aspect et la forme de l'action en vieux russe en analysant 250 racines verbales differentes, donnant un total de 968 verbes, dans des chroniques datees entre le 11 e et le 14 e siecle
AXIAL DISTRIBUTION OF SOLID PARTICLES IN BUBBLE COLUMN SLURRY REACTORS IN THE BUBBLE FLOW REGIME

Physical mechanisms responsible for the suspension of solid particles in semi-batch bubble column slurry reactors in bubble flow are identified, thus allowing the classification of solids into four states: free, engaged, wake-entrained and captured particles. A theory is then presented to predict the axial distribution of solids when wake-entrained and captured particles are absent. Reasonable agreement is found between the theory and experimental data obtained in this work and those reported by otherinvestigators.
Calibration and modeling of a dual-axis inclinometer

Abstract Methods are described to calibrate and model a dual-axis inclinometer, using a single-axis sine bar, by rotating the inclinometer axially on the sine bar and using a cross-coupled polynomial expansion model. A simple combination of angle blocks and fixturing is used to generate the axial rotations. An example of how the method was used to calibrate the model CST92 panel corner setting tools for the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT) is described.
A path-independent integral for the characterization of solute concentration and flux at biofilm detachments

A path-independent (conservation) integral is developed for the characterization of solute concentration and flux in a biofilm in the vicinity of a detachment or other flux limiting boundary condition. Steady state conditions of solute diffusion are considered and biofilm kinetics are described by an uptake term which can be expressed in terms of a potential (Michaelis–Menten kinetics). An asymptotic solution for solute concentration at the tip of the detachment is obtained and shown to be analogous to that of antiplane crack problems in linear elasticity. It is shown that the amplitude of the asymptotic solution can be calculated by evaluating a path-independent integral. The special case of a semi-infinite detachment in an infinite strip is considered and the amplitude of the asymptotic field is related to the boundary conditions and problem parameters in closed form for zeroth and first order kinetics and numerically for Michaelis–Menten kinetics.
Deformation of the Rodent Optic Nerve Head and Peripapillary Structures during Acute Intraocular Pressure Elevation

PURPOSE. To evaluate the effect of acutely elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) on retinal thickness and optic nerve head (ONH) structure in the rat eye by spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). METHODS. Fourteen adult male Brown-Norway rats were studied under anesthesia (ketamine/xylazine/acepromazine, 55:5:1 mg/kg intramuscularly). Both eyes were imaged by SD-OCT on two baseline occasions several weeks before and again 2 and 4 weeks after the acute IOP imaging session. During the acute IOP session, SD-OCT imaging was performed 10 minutes after IOP was manometrically set at 15 mm Hg and then at 10, 30, and 60 minutes after IOP had been elevated to 50 mm Hg (n = 8) and again 10 and 30 minutes after IOP had been lowered back to 15 mm Hg (recovery). In two additional groups, IOP elevation was set to 70 mm Hg (n = 4) or 40 mm Hg (n = 2). Acute IOP results are reported for a pattern of 49 horizontal B-scans spanning a 20° square and follow-up results for peripapillary circular B-scans. Retinal and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thicknesses were measured with custom software by manual image segmentation. Friedman and Dunn's tests were used to assess acute and longer-term effects of acute IOP elevation. RESULTS. Acute IOP elevation to 50 mm Hg caused rapid (within seconds) deformation of the ONH and peripapillary structures, including posterior displacement of the ONH surface and outward bowing of peripapillary tissue; retinal thickness decreased progressively from 10 to 30 to 60 minutes by 16%, 18%, and 20% within the area of Bruch's membrane opening (BMO; P < 0.0001) by 8%, 9%, and 11% within the central 10° (excluding the BMO; P < 0.0001) but only by 1%, 2%, and 2.4% beyond the central 10° (P < 0.0001). Recovery was progressive and nearly complete by 30 minutes. Acute IOP elevation to 40 and 70 mm Hg produced similar structural changes, but 70 mm Hg also interfered with retinal blood flow. There were no changes in peripapillary retinal or RNFL thickness (P = 0.08 and P = 0.16, respectively) measured 2 and 4 weeks after acute elevation to 50 mm Hg. CONCLUSIONS. Acute IOP elevation in the rodent eye causes rapid, reversible posterior deformation of the ONH and thinning of the peripapillary retina, with only minimal retinal thinning beyond 5° of the ONH. No permanent changes in peripapillary retinal or RNFL thickness (for up to 1 month of follow-up) were caused by 60 minutes of IOP elevation to 50 mm Hg.