cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The spectrum of pure mitral stenosis. Hemodynamic studies in relation to clinical disability.

The pathophysiology of mitral stenosis is reassessed, with special emphasis upon relation of physiologic variables to severity of symptoms and degree of disability. Data from 44 patients with pure mitral stenosis are presented. Cathetcrization of the left side of the heart was performed in all and catheterization of the right side of the heart in 25 patients. Twenty-six patients were in Class I or II (American Heart Association Functional Classification) with mild symptoms or none at all, while 18 patients were in Class III with severe symptoms. As expected, inverse relationships existed between left atrial pressure and mitral valve area (r = − 0.618), pulmonary arterial pressure and mitral valve area (r = − 0.575), and between mean mitral diastolic pressure gradient and mitral valve area (r = − 0.708). There was a positive relationship between cardiac index and mitral valve area (r = + 0.407). All correlation coefficients were significant to the 1 per cent level. Seventeen of the 26 patients in Classes I and II had mitral valve areas of 1.5 cm2, or less. This indicates that severe mitral stenosis can be found in a nearly asymptomatic state. All of the 18 Class III patients had valve areas of less than 1.5 cm2. These two groups of patients with similar degree of valve narrowing were compared. Cardiac output was significantly (p < 0.01) reduced in both categories (2.81 L. min. M2. for Classes I and II, and 2.82 L. min. M2. for Class in patients). Left atrial pressure in the two groups, 18 and 19 mm. Hg, respectively, and mean diastolic pressure gradient, 11 and 13 mm. Hg, respectively, did not show significant differences. However, pulmonary arterial pressure, 22 mm. Hg in Classes I and II and 36 mm. Hg in Class II, as well as pulmonary arteriolar resistance, 105 compared to 425 dynes sec. cm. −5, did allow a hemodynamic distinction between the two clinically different groups. These data suggest that the degree of pulmonary vascular disease is an important determinant of the symptoms of mitral stenosis. For Class I and II patients, history, physical examination and radiographic studies did not allow an accurate prediction of the mitral valve size. It is suggested that one of the earliest adaptive mechanisms to mitral blockade is a decrease in cardiac output and that this is not mediated, initially, through an elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, myocardial failure or atrial fibrillation. It is one of the means by which a patient with severe stenosis of the mitral valve may remain asymptomatic for prolonged periods of time.
Generalized homogeneous coordinates for computational geometry

The standard algebraic model for Euclidean space E n is an n-dimensional real vector space ℝ n or, equivalently, a set of real coordinates. One trouble with this model is that, algebraically, the origin is a distinguished element, whereas all the points of E n are identical. This deficiency in the vector space model was corrected early in the 19th century by removing the origin from the plane and placing it one dimension higher. Formally, that was done by introducing homogeneous coordinates [110]. The vector space model also lacks adequate representation for Euclidean points or lines at infinity. We solve both problems here with a new model for E n employing the tools of geometric algebra. We call it the homogeneous model of E n .
Density functional study of Bi2Te3and Bi4Te6molecules

Results of a density functional study for the molecules Bi2Te3 and Bi4Te6 are reported here. For Bi2Te3, calculations yield eight stable conformations. For Bi4Te6, eight stable isomers are identified. Equilibrium geometries, adiabatic ionisation potentials, atomisation energies, and vibrational bands are estimated. The lowest energy conformations in both cases are clusters of Cs symmetry with all Te atoms two-fold coordinated and all Bi atoms three-fold coordinated. The predicted low energy conformation for Bi4Te6 has alternating rows of Bi and Te atoms. This molecule seems a reasonable precursor to solid bismuth telluride, which has alternating Bi and Te layers.
Parameterized Unit Testing with Pex: Tutorial

This hands-on tutorial teaches the principles of Parameterized Unit Testing in Visual Studio with Pex, an automatic test input generator.
Post-Translational Modification of Xanthine Dehydrogenase in a Natural Population of DROSOPHILA MELANOGASTER

Second chromosomes of D. melanogaster were isolated from a single natural population, and 40 were analyzed by gel-sieving electrophoresis for the presence of polymorphic loci on chromosome 2 that act to modify xanthine dehydrogenase and/or aldehyde oxidase, whose structural genes map to chromosome 3. Clear evidence of polymorphism for one or more xanthine dehydrogenase modifier loci was obtained.
Über die Existenzfähigkeit von Kupfermanganat(V)

Mit dem Ziel, Manganate(V) zu erhalten, wurde die thermische Zersetzung von Kupfermanganat(VII) und Bariummanganat(VII) untersucht. The thermal decompositions of copper and barium manganate(VII) have been investigated in order to obtain manganates(V).
A Simple and Inexpensive Method for Determining Stream Discharge from a Streambank

ABSTRACT A detailed protocol for the determination of stream discharge is presented which requires neither a current meter nor actual entry into streamwater. The protocol represents a modification of the flotation method of discharge determination and was devised in response to the need for a simple, inexpensive, “bank-side” technique for estimation of stream flow. Discharge is determined through measurements of a stream's cross-sectional area and surface velocity. In tests at high and low flows, mean discharges determined by the proposed flotation method were not significantly different from those calculated using a standardized, current-meter method. This suggested that me proposed flotation method (a 10–20 min procedure) could be used with reasonable accuracy to determine discharge in small to moderate-sized streams.
Improving Prediction of Academic Achievement for Transfer Students

The most widely used index for admission of transfer students, grade-point average at prior college, was found to be minimally correlated with subsequent grades. Better predictors of transfer GPA were high school GPA and scores on tests of English usage and mechanical reasoning. While based on 260 transfers at one university, these results suggest that a combination of other academic and intellective variables should replace the traditional transfer predictor—a C average at some other school.
Kinetics of Processes Distributed in Activation Energy

The kinetic behavior of systems in which processes occur which are distributed over a range of activation energies is considered. The effects produced by the initial distribution, the order of reaction, and the frequency factor are discussed. Imaginary and actual experimental situations are used to illustrate the large errors which can result when the distribution of the processes in activation energy is neglected. Some of the complications which can result from successive reactions and varying frequency factors are mentioned.
Shape variables and the shell model

The irreducible representation labelsλ andμ of the SU(3) shell model are related to the shape variablesβ andγ of the collective model by invoking a linear mapping between eigenvalues of invariant operators of the two theories. All but one parameter of the theory is fixed if the shell-model result is required to reproduce the collective-model geometry. And for one special value of the remaining free parameter there is a simple linear relationship between the eigenvalues, λα, of the quadrupole matrix of the collective model and the SU(3) representation labels: $$\lambda _1 = ( - \lambda + \mu )/3, \lambda _2 = ( - \lambda + 2\mu + 3)/3, \lambda _3 = (2\lambda + \mu + 3)/3.$$
Smoking without nicotine delivery decreases withdrawal in 12-hour abstinent smokers

The contribution of sensory factors to smoking satisfaction and nicotine withdrawal symptoms was assessed by evaluating responses to three types of cigarettes: a regular cigarette, a de-nicotinized cigarette (de-nic), and a lettuce leaf cigarette. Doses were varied by requiring subjects to smoke cigarettes using a five-port cigarette manifold. The ratio of the regular or de-nic cigarettes to the lettuce cigarettes was varied across the following values: zero, one, two, and four of five. Seven male smokers were tobacco-deprived for 12 h before testing. On one test day they smoked the de-nic cigarettes, and on another day they smoked the regular cigarettes. Ratings of satisfaction and cigarette linking were directly related to the number of regular or de-nic cigarettes, but were generally higher after the regular cigarette. The regular and de-nic cigarettes were equivalent in reducing acute withdrawal symptoms. Expired CO was similar on both experimental days. The regular cigarette dose-dependently increased plasma nicotine, but the de-nic cigarette did not increase plasma nicotine. These results indicate that sensory characteristics of cigarettes contribute to the abuse liability of smoke-delivered nicotine. The results suggest that smoking cigarettes that do not provide nicotine may temporarily suppress cigarette withdrawal symptoms.
Efficacy of doxepin in the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria

Doxepin hydrochloride, a tricyclic antidepressant, was evaluated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial for the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria in 16 adults. Efficacy was evaluated by symptom scores, concomitant antihistamine use, and suppression of histamine- and codeine-induced wheal response. Doxepin-treated subjects experienced fewer lesions (p less than 0.001), less waking hours with lesions (p less than 0.01), lesser degree of itch and/or discomfort (p less than 0.001), and less swelling or angioedema (p less than 0.001) as compared to placebo-treated subjects. Doxepin-treated subjects required less daily concomitant antihistamine use (mean 0.13 tablets versus 1.48 tablets, p less than 0.05). Doxepin also significantly suppressed histamine- and codeine-induced cutaneous wheal response as compared to placebo. Lethargy was commonly observed but diminished with continued use. Dry mouth and constipation were also commonly observed. We conclude that doxepin is an effective agent for the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria.
User evaluation of a stereoscopic display for space-training applications

Space Shuttle missions and future Space Station Freedom activities both require a significant amount of out-the-window viewing to perform a variety of on-orbit tasks such as grappling objects with a robot arm, berthing payloads into the shuttle cargo bay, and docking the shuttle to the station. Many of these tasks take place close enough to the viewer such that stereo depth cues become useful and important. Astronaut crews spend many hours of ground training practicing these tasks using visual simulation without stereo depth cues. A prototype of a stereoscopic display system for use in these training scenarios has been constructed. Training instructors and development contractor personnel were asked to evaluate the display system for training suitability. Evaluators were also asked to judge the quality of stereo cues, long term viewing comfort, and degree of display artifacts. Results were compared to related research to develop recommendations for scene content and viewing distance and suggest the direction of further research to improve comfort and depth perception.
Phylogenetic inference from adult morphology in the Nematoda; with emphasis on the bursate nematodes, the strongylida; advancements (1982-1985) and recommendations for further work.

Abstract Progress in the years 1982 through 1985 in the development of phylogenetic classifications of nematode parasites of vertebrates was reviewed. Because of space limitations, only significant progress on the phylogeny of the bursate nematodes of the order Strongylida was described and discussed. Significant contributions on other orders were listed but not discussed and contributions below subfamily level could not be included. Major contributions toward understanding the phylogeny of the Strongyloidea of Australian marsupials were made by Beveridge (1982) and a new hypothesis on the evolution of Strongylidae of equids was proposed by Dvoīnos (1982). Additional characters are needed to test the new proposals and to determine whether buccal capsule shape and size is useful at the subfamily level in the Strongyloidea. The most significant contribution on the Trichostrongyloidea was a new classification of the entire superfamily with keys to genera by Durette-Desset (1983) that employed newly described characteristics of the copulatory bursa. A key to genera of the Trichostrongylidae was contributed by Gibbons & Khalil (1982). Contributions on the Metastrongyloidea were made by Anderson (1982) who discussed hosts, life cycles and evolution of the superfamily; by Pryadko (1984) who discussed the origin of the Protostrongylidae; by Spratt (1984) who described new taxa and presented a revised key to nematodes found in the lungs of Australian marsupials; and by Platt (1984) who used cladistics to analyze the phylogenetics of the Elaphostrongylinae.
Isolation of the genes encoding the 51-kilodalton and 28-kilodalton subunits of Crithidia fasciculata replication protein A.

The genes encoding the 51-kilodalton subunit (p51) and the 28-kilodalton subunit (p28) of replication protein A (RPA), designated CfaRPA1 and CfaRPA2 respectively, were cloned from the trypanosomatid Crithidia fasciculata by screening a genomic DNA library in the expression vector λgt11 with antibodies raised against purified C. fasciculata RP-A. CfaRPA1 has a single open reading frame encoding a polypeptide of 467 amino acids and a molecular mass of 52.0 kDa. The predicted p51 polypeptide has sequence similarity to the corresponding subunits from human, Xenopus laevis, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but is lacking a segment of approximately 20 kDa from its amino terminus, accounting for its smaller molecular weight when compared to the large subunits of RP-A from these other organisms. CfaRPA1 contains a zinc-finger motif that is also found in the RP-A large subunits from human, frog, and yeast. CfaRPA2 contains a single large open reading frame encoding a polypeptide of 258 amino acids and a molecular mass of 27.5 kDa. The predicted polypeptide has significant sequence similarity to the middle subunit of RP-A from human cells, mouse cells, and the budding yeast S. cerevisiae. Northern hybridization analysis of polyadenylated RNA from C. fasciculata indicates that both cloned genes are expressed as polyadenylated transcripts. CfaRPA1 hybridized with a 2.30-kb transcript and CfaRPA2 hybridized with a 1.44-kb transcript.
A mass-matrix based frequency-domain finite-element method accelerated by a reduced eigenspace method for circuit modeling

The mass matrix resulting from a finite-element-method (FEM) based electromagnetic analysis possesses favorable properties that can be exploited to reduce the computational time and memory cost for large-scale circuit modeling. In this paper, a mass-matrix based frequency-domain FEM method is developed for the analysis of integrated circuits. Its convergence is theoretically proved, and its efficiency is accelerated by a reduced eigenspace method.
A Study of the Initial Stages of Spark Discharges in Gases

The electro-optical shutter is used to study spark break-down in nitrogen, hydrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, helium and argon at atmospheric pressure and for gap lengths up to about 1 cm. Four distinct types of break-down, as characterized by the appearance and growth of the luminous streamers, are recognizable in these gases. The velocities of the streamers emanating from the cathode in the cases of hydrogen and nitrogen have been measured and have been found to be about ${10}^{7}$ cm per sec. which is of the order of magnitude of the calculated velocities of electrons in these gases under breakdown conditions. Pencil drawings representing the course of the breakdown in hydrogen, nitrogen, helium and argon are reproduced. Photographs of single sparks in early stages are shown for nitrogen, oxygen, air and carbon dioxide, the exposure time for some of these being as short as 5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}9}$ sec. The experiments indicate that the major portion of the current passing during breakdown is carried by electrons, and that these, for the most part, come from the cathode rather than from ionization in the gas. The shortness of the spark lag, and the breakdown times of the sparks, show that the phenomenon is essentially due to the motion of electrons, and that the space charges which cause breakdown result from the large difference in the mobility velocities of electrons and positive ions. A theory is formulated to explain the appearance and growth of the streamers observed in certain gases, such as nitrogen.
Fabrication of dense optoelectronic device arrays

The development of complex optoelectronic devices and circuitry, including optoelectronic integrated circuits, vertical cavity surface emitting laser arrays, and light emitting diode (LED) arrays, may be simplified by the separation of the circuitry and epitaxial layers from the substrate. This separation permits access to the back side of the epitaxial film, allowing back side metallization for interconnects and mirrors, as well as improved heat sink attachment. We describe the results of the successful fabrication of 2D arrays comprising 32,768 monolithic LEDs. The individual LEDs are addressed through a multiplexing circuit in which row addressing is provided on the front side of the epitaxy, and column addressing is provided on the back side. The monolithic LED array is dense, consisting of center to center device spacing of 50 micrometers . The epitaxial films were formed by conventional metal organic chemical vapor deposition, with AlGaAs active layers emitting at 650 nm. A separation layer of AlAs is used to facilitate substrate removal. The fabrication process and results will be described.
Measurement of transmission of VUV monochromators and electron spectrometers using photoemission spectroscopy

Abstract In many applications of photoemission spectroscopy it is necessary to know the relative photoelectron yield from a sample as a function of energy. Two aspects of this measurement are specific to synchrotron radiation sources. We first present a method of extracting the monochromatic contribution from an absorption measurement which includes harmonics of the primary frequency aas well as scattered light. In addition, this measurement is a useful way to characterize VUV monochromators. Secondly, we present an analysis of the transmission of electron spectrometers when viewing a source of the dimensions of a synchrotron radiation source. This is midway between the well-characterized cases of flooded sources (such as an X-ray source) and point sources (such as an electron gun).
A new fundamental bioheat equation for muscle tissue: Part I : Blood perfusion term

A new model for muscle tissue heat transfer has been developed using Myrhage and Eriksson's [23] description of a muscle tissue cylinder surrounding secondary (s) vessels as the basic heat transfer unit. This model provides a rational theory for the venous return temperature for the perfusion source term in a modified Pennes bioheat equation, and greatly simplifies the anatomical description of the microvascular architecture required in the Weinbaum-Jiji bioheat equation. An easy-to-use closed-form analytic expression has been derived for the difference between the inlet artery and venous return temperatures using a model for the countercurrent heat exchange in the individual muscle tissue cylinders. The perfusion source term calculated from this model is found to be similar in form to the Pennes's source term except that there is a correction factor or efficiency coefficient multiplying the Pennes term, which rigorously accounts for the thermal equilibration of the returning vein. This coefficient is a function of the vascular cross-sectional geometry of the muscle tissue cylinder, but independent of the Peclet number in contrast to the recent results in Brinck and Werner [8]. The value of this coefficient varies between 0.6 and 0.7 for most muscle tissues. In part II of this study a theory will be presented for determining the local arterial supply temperature at the inlet to the muscle tissue cylinder.
Nonstoichiometry and decomposition of La1+zBa2−zCu3Oy and La4BaCu5O13−w

Abstract The temperature ( T , K) and oxygen pressure ( p O 2 , Pa) dependence of oxygen content in La 1+ z Ba 2− z Cu 3 O y (123) and La 4 BaCu 5 O 13− w (415) were determined over the ranges 10 Pa to 0.1 MPa O 2 , 0.0≤ z ≤0.7 and 523≤ T ≤1223 K. The data for each phase were correlated with chemical thermodynamic representations. For La 1+ z Ba 2− z Cu 3 O y , the T - z - y - p O 2 behavior was modeled as a solution of LaBa 2 Cu 3 O 7− x and 415. The experimental data demonstrated 7− x values 2 . These two characteristics are not known to occur in the lanthanide and Y analogues. The T - z - p O 2 dependence of high-temperature decomposition was determined and, in conjunction with X-ray analysis, permitted construction of the phase diagram lying between LaBa 2 Cu 3 O 7− x and 415. Effects of residual carbonate content were also determined.
Characterization of side mounted vehicular antennas

Humvees are typically furnished with a wide range of antenna systems commonly mounted on the roof or bumper of the vehicle. While antennas mounted in these locations may have good performance, they both (roof and bumper) have limited room for additional antennas with new or expanded functionalities. Additionally, the roof- and bumper-based antenna systems may contribute to a large visual profile and may compromise both the mobility and safety of the vehicle. For this reason, it is fortuitous to mount antenna systems in alternative locations on a space constrained vehicle such as Humvee. This paper explores the vehicle and ground effects on the performance of antenna systems mounted on alternative vehicle locations. Moreover, we consider the antennas operating over very wide frequency range, classified under the frequency independent family such as spiral, log-periodic, and sinuous. These antennas are considered for a wide range of applications ranging from communications to jamming. Considering both, these antennas' utility, and ubiquitousness in the field, they make for a prime subject of study for side mounted antennas. This paper focuses primarily on the effects in the VHF/UHF/L-band regions for the mounted antennas over a variety of practical ground compositions. To properly characterize the performance in such a location and over diverse grounds, a variety of parameters are examined using commercially available software tools based on integral and partial differential equation methods. After the discussion of the low and high-complexity models, we evaluate first the vehicle/ground/antenna impact on the electric field at different distances from and around the vehicle in the close proximity to the vehicle itself. This study is especially important for jamming applications. The effect of ground losses on the propagation efficiency of the antenna systems is examined next. Impacts of antenna polarization, proximity to the ground, and pattern shaping are determined. Finally, the depolarization due to ground-based polarization variable losses, scattering from the vehicle body and the ground is explored. This paper shows that the vehicle sides may be considered for mounting various antenna systems operating over wide range of frequencies; however, the design needs to be carefully undertaken to insure that the diverse physics is properly and thoroughly accounted for.
Coronary collateral vessels: Spectrum of physiologic capabilities with respect to providing rest and stress myocardial perfusion, maintenance of left ventricular function and protection against infarction

Abstract The physiologic significance of coronary collateral vessels was evaluated in 91 patients with stable coronary artery disease. Four physiologic variables were assessed in the distribution areas of 101 totally occluded coronary arteries associated with angiographically defined collateral vessels. These variables included myocardial perfusion at rest and during stress, left ventricular wall motion and the presence or absence of myocardial infarction. These 101 collateralized areas of myocardium were classified into two major groups on the basis of normal (43 areas) or abnormal (58 areas) myocardial perfusion at rest. Among the 43 areas with normal perfusion at rest, three or more variables were normal in 37 instances (86 percent) and all variables were normal in 17. Of 58 areas with abnormal perfusion at rest, three or more variables were abnormal in 47 (81 percent), and all four variables were abnormal in 32. Although the results were generally concordant when all variables were assessed as a group, significant discrepancies existed if each variable was compared individually with resting perfusion. Of the 43 areas with normal resting perfusion 14 (33 percent) had stress defects, 15 (35 percent) had wall motion abnormalities and 5 (12 percent) showed electrocardiographic evidence of myocardial infarction. Of the 58 areas with abnormal resting perfusion 5 (9 percent) had normal stress perfusion, 16 (28 percent) had normal wall motion and 22 (38 percent) lacked electrocardiographic evidence of infarction. The presence or absence of significant coronary artery disease distal to the origin of a collateral vessel, the extent of coronary artery disease in all coronary vessels and the angiographic appearance of collateral vessels were not helpful in defining the significance of a collateral vessel. These results indicate that the functional significance of collateral vessels varies considerably. Collateral vessels in many patients may be highly effective in maintaining myocardial perfusion and left ventricular function and preventing infarction; in others, collateralization may be of no significance. The use of multiple variables as a group rather than individually provides meaningful information regarding the physiologic significance of a collateral vessel and complements the coronary angiogram, which is not uniformly helpful in making this assessment.
Strategic management in not-for-profit organizations

With many executives spending at least part of their management careers in not-for-profit organizations, the application of viable principles from corporate experience to the not-for-profit situation is important if these managers are to transfer their talents between organizational forms effectively. Strategy identification, evaluation, and reformulation for the not-for-profit organization are discussed in this paper, as an adaptation of the principles developed for corporate strategic management.
Novel Low-Overhead Operand Isolation Techniques for Low-Power Datapath Synthesis

Power consumption in datapath modules due to redundant switching is an important design concern for high-performance applications. Operand isolation schemes that reduce this redundant switching incur considerable overhead in terms of delay, power, and area. This paper presents novel operand isolation techniques based on supply gating that reduce overheads associated with isolating circuitry. The proposed schemes also target leakage minimization and additional operand isolation at the internal logic of datapath to further reduce power consumption. We integrate the proposed techniques and power/delay models to develop a synthesis flow for low-power datapath synthesis. Simulation results show that the proposed operand isolation techniques achieve at least 40% reduction in power consumption compared to original circuit with minimal area overhead (5%) and delay penalty (0.15%)
Effects of transitions to new child care classes on infant/toddler distress and behavior

Abstract Changes in distress and problem behaviors of 38 infants/toddlers were examined after children transitioned from familiar to new classrooms to look at effects of non-continuity of caregiver. Child's age, classroom quality, teacher sensitivity, and transitioning with a peer were examined as possible mediators. Results suggest that transitions were associated with increased distress, especially for younger children. In addition, although overall classroom quality was low, children in higher quality pre-transition classrooms showed more distress after transitioning than children in lower quality classrooms. Transitions were associated with decreased problem behaviors. Both distress and problem behaviors returned to pre-transition levels within 3 weeks. Teacher sensitivity and transitioning with a peer did not relate to distress or problem behaviors. These findings contribute evidence about immediate effects of infant/toddler transitions in child care. Future research should explore child, classroom, and teacher–child relationship variables that influence effects of continuity versus non-continuity of caregiver.
Doxazolidine, a proposed active metabolite of doxorubicin that cross-links DNA.

A crystal structure establishes doxoform as a dimeric formaldehyde conjugate of the oxazolidine of doxorubicin. Doxoform is a prodrug of doxazolidine, a monomeric doxorubicin formaldehyde-oxazolidi...
Fracture toughness of an Al-Li-Cu-In alloy

The crack initiation and growth fracture toughness of select AL-Li-Cu alloy variants are characterized and elucidated. Conventionally processed plates form large DC cast ingots are investigated to eliminate the variation in microstructure associated with laboratory scale and SPF-processed material. Fracture resistance is characterized using the J-integral method to establish crack initiation and growth behavior at 25 and -185 C. It is shown that state-of-the-art 2090-T81 has superior toughness compared to 2090 + In-T6 at both test temperatures, with the low toughness of 2090 + In-T6 associated with intersubgranular fracture attributed to a high density of subboundary precipitates.
Water and energy conservation using irrigation scheduling with center-pivot irrigation systems☆

Abstract An extension project covering portions of two counties in north central Nebraska, USA, demonstrated that irrigation scheduling and pumping plant adjustment practices reduced energy costs for center-pivot irrigated corn ( Zea mays L.). Data were collected for 51 center-pivot systems; 19 employed irrigation scheduling techniques (Schedule Group), and 32 center-pivot systems managed water applications using other methods (Control Group). On average, the Schedule Group used 17% less energy, applied 29mm (11%) less water and harvested 322 kg/ha (3.5%) more grain than the Control Group. Harvested yields and annual water application depths were less variable for the Schedule Group. Results suggest that irrigation scheduling improved the irrigators ability to determine irrigation timing and application depths. Adjustment of pumping plants improved the operating performance by an average of 8.1% of the Nebraska Pumping Plant Performance Criteria. Energy use was reduced by 0 to 34%. Annual return averaged $4.70 per hectare compared to an estimated cost of $1.65 per hectare per year for pumping plant adjustment. Analysis of the operating costs indicated that compared to the Control Group, the Schedule Group realized a total increase in return which ranged from $1.54 per hectare in 1986 to $13.03 per hectare in 1984. Average annual return was increased by $5.40 per hectare.
A Three-Dimensional Demonstration of Embryogenesis

Embryogenesis is described in most developmental psychology texts, but students often have trouble understanding text descriptions or two-dimensional illustrations. This article describes a three-dimensional illustration of embryogenesis that can be used as a classroom demonstration in introductory or developmental psychology courses.
Spectroscopic studies of ionic solvation. XVIII. Solvation of the lithium ion in acetone and acetone-nitromethane mixtures

Solvation of the lithium ion by acetone was studied in acetone-nitromethane solutions by Raman, infrared, and7Li and35Cl NMR spectroscopic techniques. It was confirmed that the 390-cm−1 IR acetone band is split by the lithium ion and that a 369-cm−1 IR band, attributed by other authors to Li+-nitromethane vibration, is due to the vibration of acetone in the lithium inner solvation shell. The frequency of the Li+-nitromethane vibrational band is strongly anion dependent due to contact-ion-pair formation. Several different techniques indicate that Li+ is solvated by four acetone molecules, and approximate equilibrium-constant values for the stepwise solvation reaction were calculated. The influence of weak complexing agents on Li+ ClO4− ion-pair formation was investigated.
Academic Examinations Significantly Impact Immune Responses, but Not Lung Function, in Healthy and Well-Managed Asthmatic Adolescents

The influence of academic examinations on immunity and lung function was investigated in 64 adolescents to determine if stress-related changes would differ between healthy and asthmatic students. Blood samples were collected on three occasions: 1 month prior, during, and 2–3 weeks after exams. Leukocyte subsets were enumerated, andin vitroassays were conducted to assess lymphocyte proliferative and cytolytic responses and neutrophil production of superoxides. Examinations elicited significant changes in several lymphocyte subsets and marked alterations in the three functional measures in all students. However, the magnitude and pattern of change did not differ between healthy and asthmatic students. Similarly, neither mild nor more severe asthmatics showed an exam-related decrement in lung function, as reflected by peak expiratory flow rate. This research validated that examinations are a salient cause of altered immune responses, but indicates that there is not a concomitant aggravation of inflammatory disease in well-managed asthmatics.
η2-Organoazide Complexes of Nickel and Their Conversion to Terminal Imido Complexes via Dinitrogen Extrusion

1-Adamantyl- and mesitylazide react with [(dtbpe)Ni]2(eta2-mu-C6H6) to give the eta2 organic azide adducts (dtbpe)Ni(eta2-N3R) (R = Ad, 3a; Mes, 3b) that have been isolated in good yields and crystallographically characterized. These azide adducts are intermediates in the formation of the corresponding terminal imido complexes (dtbpe)NiNR (R = Ad, 4a; Mes, 4b), undergoing intramolecular loss of dinitrogen upon mild thermolysis.
Correlated equilibrium existence for infinite games with type-dependent strategies

Abstract Under study are games in which players receive private signals and then simultaneously choose actions from compact sets. Payoffs are measurable in signals and jointly continuous in actions. This paper gives a counter-example to the main step in Cotterʼs [K. Cotter, Correlated equilibrium in games with type-dependent strategies, J. Econ. Theory 54 (1991) 48–69] argument for correlated equilibrium existence for this class of games, and supplies an alternative proof.
Characteristics of faults on aircraft electric systems

THE protection of electric systems has been applied mainly to the prevention of damage to electric equipment caused by overheating or overstressing the components. Normal industrial installations result in systems that, in protecting the specific equipment for which they were designed, also give adequate protection to the surrounding equipment. Unfortunately, it has been assumed, without serious reservation, that similar protective systems for aircraft equipment could perform the same function. In reality, however, the environmental conditions in aircraft operation are much more severe ? that is, the structure of the aircraft is much more vulnerable to arc damage ? requiring that more extensive and efficient protection be used in the future. It would be rather pointless to install a system that assured the operation of specific equipment if, at the same time, it allowed the structure of the aircraft to be destroyed. Such a contingency can occur under the present philosophy of protection of aircraft electric systems.
Laser velocimeter measurements of the flow field generated by a forward-swept propfan during flutter

Results are presented from an investigation to measure the flow field generated by a forward-swept propfan operating in flutter at a low forward velocity. For comparison to the flutter condition, flow field data are also presented for a slightly reduced rotational speed just below flutter. The forward-swept propfan was tested as the front rotor of a counterrotating pusher propeller. A laser Doppler velocimeter (LDV) was used to measure the velocity field in planes normal to the model centerline downstream of the rotor and in planes of constant radius within the blade passages at each operating condition. A comparison of the data taken at the two different operating conditions indicated that the mean, time-averaged flow about the blades did not change drastically as the propfan rotational speed was increased from the stable operating point to the flutter condition. No regions of flow separation could be identified in the data plots of the mean intrablade flow field. The data also indicate that the relative flow about the blades remained subsonic during flutter operation. The blades were found to have a higher than expected tip loading at both operating conditions. This is thought to have been caused by the outer blade sections twisting under load to higher than expected effective blade angles. This high tip loading resulted in strong vortices and a very nonuniform flow downstream of the tips of the forward-swept blades. This high tip loading may also have caused the blade flutter.
Changes in the immobile aqueous phase of cellulose during chromatograms formed with absolute ethanol

Abstract Developers which are miscible with water are capable of removing some of the immobile aqueous phase from cellulose if they are initially anhydrous. Eluant fractions from cellulose columns developed with absolute ethanol showed a water content of about 9% (w/w) and a total content equivalent to removal of about 25% of the immobile liquid phase. Eluants from paper chromatograms showed no water probably due to evaporation of the solution from the paper in the chamber. Analysis was by gas chromatography using THEED supported by a fluorocarbon. The average error was 0.6% water in the range 0.5 to 10% water. Water could not be detected below 0.35%.
Crystal Structures of the ADP and ATP Bound Forms of the Bacillus Anti-sigma Factor SpoIIAB in Complex with the Anti-anti-sigma SpoIIAA.

Cell type-specific transcription during Bacillus sporulation is established by sigma(F), the activity of which is controlled by a regulatory circuit involving the anti-sigma factor and serine kinase SpoIIAB, and the anti-anti-sigma SpoIIAA. When ATP is present in the nucleotide-binding site of SpoIIAB, SpoIIAA is phosphorylated, followed by dissociation. The nucleotide-binding site of SpoIIAB is left bound to ADP. SpoIIAB(ADP) can bind an unphosphorylated molecule of SpoIIAA as a stable binding partner. Thus, in this circuit, SpoIIAA plays a dual role as a substrate of the SpoIIAB kinase activity, as well as a tight binding inhibitor. Crystal structures of both the pre-phosphorylation complex and the inhibitory complex, SpoIIAB(ATP) and SpoIIAB(ADP) bound to SpoIIAA, respectively, have been determined. The structural differences between the two forms are subtle and confined to interactions with the phosphoryl groups of the nucleotides. The structures reveal details of the SpoIIAA:SpoIIAB interactions and how phosphorylated SpoIIAA dissociates from SpoIIAB(ADP). Finally, the results confirm and expand upon the docking model for SpoIIAA function as an anti-anti-sigma in releasing sigma(F) from SpoIIAB.
Clinical and dosimetric predictors of radiation-induced esophageal toxicity.

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the incidence, severity, and clinical/dosimetric predictors of acute and chronic esophageal toxicities in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with high-dose conformal thoracic radiation. Methods and Materials: Ninety-one patients with localized NSCLC treated definitively with high-dose conformal radiation therapy (RT) at Duke University Medical Center (DUMC) were reviewed. Patient characteristics were as follows: 53 males and 38 females; median age 64 yr (range 46–82); stage I—16, II—3, IIIa—40, IIIb—30, X—2; dysphagia pre-RT—6 (7%). Treatment parameters included: median corrected dose—78.8 Gy (range 64.2–85.6); BID fractionation—58 (64%); chemotherapy—43 (47%). Acute and late esophageal toxicities were graded by RTOG criteria. Using 3D treatment planning tools, the esophagus was contoured in a uniform fashion, the 3D dose distribution calculated (with lung density correction), and the dose–volume (DVH) and dose–surface histograms (DSH) generated. At each axial level, the percentage of the esophageal circumference at each dose level was calculated. The length of circumferential esophagus and the maximum circumference treated to doses >50 Gy were assessed. Patient and treatment factors were correlated with acute and chronic esophageal dysfunction using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Results: There were no acute or late grade 4 or 5 esophageal toxicities. Ten of 91 patients (11%) developed grade 3 acute toxicity. On univariate analysis of clinical parameters, both dysphagia pre-RT ( p = 0.10) and BID fractionation ( p = 0.11) tended toward significantly predicting grade 3 acute esophagitis. None of the dosimetric parameters analyzed significantly predicted for grade 3 acute esophagitis. Twelve of 66 assessable patients (18%) developed late esophageal toxicity. Of the clinical parameters analyzed, only dysphagia pre-RT ( p = 0.06) tended toward significantly predicting late esophageal toxicity. On univariate analyses, the effects of percent organ volume treated >50 Gy ( p = 0.05), percent surface area treated >50 Gy ( p = 0.05), length of 100% circumference treated >50 Gy ( p = 0.04), and maximum percent of circumference treated >80 Gy ( p = 0.01) significantly predicted for late toxicity of all grades. On multivariate analysis, percent organ volume treated >50 Gy ( p = 0.02) and maximum percent of circumference treated >80 Gy ( p = 0.02) predicted for late toxicity. Conclusions: Late esophageal toxicity following aggressive, high-dose conformal radiotherapy is common but rarely severe. Dosimetric variables addressing the longitudinal and circumferential character of the esophagus have biologic rationale and are predictive of late toxicity. Further studies are needed to assess whether these parameters are better predictors than those derived from traditional DVHs.
Incorporating If ... Then . . . Personality Signatures in Person Perception: Beyond the Person-Situation Dichotomy

Three studies investigated conditions in which perceivers view dispositions and situations as interactive, rather than independent, causal forces when making judgments about another's personality. Study 1 showed that perceivers associated 5 common trait terms (e.g., friendly and shy) with characteristic if...then... (if situation a, then the person does x, but if situation b, then the person does y) personality signatures. Study 2 demonstrated that perceivers used information about a target's stable if...then... signature to infer the target's motives and traits; dispositional judgments were mediated by inferences about the target's motivations. Study 3 tested whether perceivers draw on if...then... signatures when making judgments about Big Five trait dimensions. Together, the findings indicate that perceivers take account of person-situation interactions (reflected in if...then... signatures) in everyday explanations of social behavior and personality dispositions. Boundary conditions are also discussed.
Matrix description of radiometric quantities

The impetus for this paper was to assist investigators not familiar with radiometry theory. Many times they apply a scalar theory to the scattering of polarized light from nondepolarizing targets. Also some investigators erroneously apply a combined scalar–vector theory since the correct vector–matrix approach has not been developed in the literature. The classical theory used by many investigators is modified in vector–matrix form in this paper. The vector–matrix theory is applied to the various geometries. These results and examples are presented in tabular form.
Circular dichroic studies of human plasma retinol-binding protein and prealbumin.

Abstract Circular dichroic (CD) spectra were obtained on solutions of human plasma retinol-binding protein and prealbumin, the two proteins involved in the transport of vitamin A in plasma. CD spectral studies were also carried out on the following solutions: (1) apo-retinol-binding protein (retinol-binding protein not containing bound retinol); (2) a 1:1 molar mixture of prealbumin and l -thyroxine, and (3) two mixtures of prealbumin and retinol-binding protein, one of which consisted almost entirely of the prealbumin-retinol-binding protein complex. The spectra were subjected to computer analysis and yielded information about the secondary structures of both proteins. Retinol-binding protein appears to have a relatively high content of unordered structure, a significant but small complement of β-structure, and little or no α-helix. Prealbumin appears to have a higher content of β-conformation (one-third to one-half the overall structure) and a lower content of unordered structure than does retinol-binding protein; prealbumin also appears to have little or no α-helical structure. It is likely that the structures of both proteins are highly organized and specific, but mainly lack regular repeating characteristics. The CD spectrum of apo-retinol-binding protein was very similar to that of holo-retinol-binding protein from 208 to 240 nm, suggesting that disruption of the ligand-protein complex did not lead to extensive alteration of the secondary structure. Small differences in fine structure of the spectra retinol-binding protein and apo-retinol-binding protein between 240 and 300 nm cannot at present be interpreted in terms of specific chromophores or conformational significance. There was no evidence from the CD spectra to indicate that the interaction of prealbumin with l -thyroxine resulted in a significant change in the secondary structure of the protein. The spectra of mixtures of prealbumin and retinol-binding protein were additive, indicating that formation of the retinol-binding protein prealbumin complex resulted in very little if any alteration in the secondary structure of the two proteins. It is, of course, possible that small conformational changes, not detected by the methods used, occurred as a result of the interactions of the molecules studied.