cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The diagnosis of lesions of the major bronchi in pulmonary tuberculosis.

Summary (1) Clinically detectable tuberculous lesions of the trachea and major bronchi have been recognized for more than two decades. The diagnosis of such lesions, and the role played by them in the evolution of pulmonary tuberculosis has been intensively studied in the U.S.A. but neglected in Britain. The sensitivity of these lesions to streptomycin therapy is now established. Their diagnosis becomes, therefore, a matter of prime importance. (2) The findings in 800 consecutive bronchoscopies performed at the Wm. H. Maybury Sanatorium, Northville, Mich., over a period of seven and a half years up to 1946 are presented and are related to clinical and radiological indications for the procedure. (3) The view is expressed that these lesions have not been overdiagnosed in the best American clinics. The criteria adopted for their bronchoscopic diagnosis in these clinics supports this view. (4) Categories of cases, likely to yield a high percentage of positive bronchoscopic findings can be established on a clinical and radiological basis. (5) An objective or subjective wheeze, and other sounds of bronchial origin—often heard best with the stethoscope at the slightly open mouth during a moderately forced expiration–is an almost constant clinical feature in established lesions of the major bronchi. Such sounds in the presence of dense infiltration or ‘atelectasis’ in a lung segment should lead one to suspect a lesion in a major bronchus. (6) In 16 post-thoracoplasty cases with persistently positive sputum in the presence of presumably controlled parenchymal disease active lesions of the tracheobronchial tree were discovered in 13. In 9 of these in which the bronchial lesion was observed to heal, sputum conversion occurred. (7) The timely diagnosis of active lesions of the major bronchi is of great clinical importance, for thir established presence should modify one's attitude to the whole programme of therapy in such cases.
Improving Teacher Education

(2011). Improving Teacher Education. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 82, No. 5, pp. 3-56.
A method for representing and developing process models

Abstract Scientists investigate the dynamics of complex systems with quantitative models, employing them to synthesize knowledge, to explain observations, and to forecast future system behavior. Complete specification of systems is impossible, so models must be simplified abstractions. Thus, the art of modeling involves deciding which system elements to include and determining how they should be represented. We view modeling as search through a space of candidate models that is guided by model objectives, theoretical knowledge, and empirical data. In this contribution, we introduce a method for representing process-based models that facilitates the discovery of structures that explain observed behavior. This representation casts dynamic systems as interacting sets of processes that act on entities. Using this approach, a modeler first encodes relevant ecological knowledge into a library of generic entities and processes, then instantiates these theoretical components, and finally assembles candidate models from these elements. We illustrate this methodology with a model of the Ross Sea ecosystem.
Electro-Optic Functions for Interpretation of Experimental Data

We reproduce here a number of line shapes which we believe will be of value to experimentalists in the field of electroreflectance. We have found them to be very useful in our work on the higher-energy critical points of germanium and gallium arsenide.
An Exploration of Mental Health Literacy Among African American Clergy

ABSTRACT The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore African American clergy's mental health literacy with older congregants 60 years of age and older. Using a grounded theory approach, we recruited a purposive sample of 9 African American clergy representing diverse ages, denominations, locales, and educational levels. Data was coded and classified according to Kevin's (1976) typology of pastoral counseling and Jorm et al.'s (1997) conceptual model of mental health literacy. Findings from data analysis revealed study respondents were adherents of Kevin's Religious–Community (R–C) model. Additionally, the following themes emerged: loss of cognitive functioning, psychosocial stressors, religiosity, and appreciation for professional assistance, cultural barriers, and key informants/familiarity with formal mental health providers which partially maps onto Jorm et al.'s conceptual model of mental health literacy.
Geomechanical modeling of stress and strain evolution during contractional fault-related folding

Abstract Understanding stress states and rock mass deformation deep underground is critical to a range of endeavors including oil and gas exploration and production, geothermal reservoir characterization and management, and subsurface disposal of CO 2 . Geomechanical modeling can predict the onset of failure and the type and abundance of deformation features along with the orientations and magnitudes of stresses. This approach enables development of forward models that incorporate realistic mechanical stratigraphy (e.g., including competence contrasts, bed thicknesses, and bedding planes), include faults and bedding-slip surfaces as frictional sliding interfaces, reproduce the overall geometry of the fold structures of interest, and allow tracking of stress and strain through the deformation history. Use of inelastic constitutive relationships (e.g., elastic–plastic behavior) allows permanent strains to develop in response to the applied loads. This ability to capture permanent deformation is superior to linear elastic models, which are often used for numerical convenience, but are incapable of modeling permanent deformation or predicting permanent deformation processes such as faulting, fracturing, and pore collapse. Finite element modeling results compared with field examples of a natural contractional fault-related fold show that well-designed geomechanical modeling can match overall fold geometries and be applied to stress, fracture, and subseismic fault prediction in geologic structures. Geomechanical modeling of this type allows stress and strain histories to be obtained throughout the model domain.
Method for Simultaneous Wing Aerodynamic and Structural Load Prediction

A calculation method is presented for the simultaneous solution of aerodynamic and structural loads on arbitrary high aspect ratio wings. The wing aerodynamics are modeled using lifting line theory with roll rate, yaw, and yaw rate effects included. The wing structure is modeled as a nonlinear beam with vertical and horizontal displacement and torsional degrees of freedom. Axial compression effects are also incorporated to permit modeling of wings with external bracing struts or wires. The aerodynamic and structural problems together constitute a coupled nonlinear system for the aerodynamic and structural unknowns, which is discretized anci solved using a global Newton method. The overall procedure permits computationally economical prediction of:
Forecasting invasive pneumococcal disease trends after the introduction of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in the United States, 2010–2020

Abstract Introduction Pneumococcal vaccines are highly effective at preventing invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD), a leading cause of global morbidity. Because pneumococcal vaccines can be expensive, it is useful to estimate what impact might be expected from their introduction. Our objective was to develop a statistical model that could predict rates of IPD following introduction of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) in the U.S. Methods We used active surveillance data to design and validate a Poisson model forecasting the reductions in IPD observed after U.S. introduction of 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) in 2000. We used this model to forecast rates of IPD from 2010 to 2020 in the presence of PCV13. Because increases in non-PCV7-type IPD were evident following PCV7 introduction, we evaluated varying levels of increase in non-PCV13-type IPD (“serotype replacement”) by sensitivity analyses. Results A total of 43,507 cases of IPD were identified during 1998–2009; cases from this period were used to develop the model, which accurately predicted indirect effects of PCV7 in adults, as well as serotype replacement. Assuming that PCV13 provides similar protection against PCV13 serotypes as PCV7 did against PCV7 serotypes, the base-case model predicted approximately 168,000 cases of IPD prevented from 2011 to 2020. When serotype replacement was varied in sensitivity analyses from 0 to levels comparable to that seen with serotype 19A (the most common replacement serotype since PCV7 was introduced), the model predicted 167,000–170,000 cases prevented. The base-case model predicted rates of IPD in children under five years of age decreasing from 21.9 to 9.3 cases per 100,000 population. Conclusions This model provides a “benchmark” for assessing progress in the prevention of IPD in the years after PCV13 introduction. The amount of serotype replacement is unlikely to greatly affect the overall number of cases prevented by PCV13.
On distributed systems performance

Abstract The behavior of two interacting processes in a distributed processing environment is analyzed. This problem represents a class of problems which we will confront in the next decade as distributed systems are implemented.
Cationic polymerization by cyclic halonium ions I. The 2,5‐dimethylhexane/Bcl3/isobutylene system

Polymerisation de l'isobutene dans CH 2 Cl 2 a −35°C par le melange dichloro-2,5 dimethyl-2,5 hexane/BCl 3 en composes telecheliques
Evolutionary Theory in Sociology : An Examination of Current Thinking

After long neglect, evolutionary thinking is receiving new emphasis in the social sciences. Although evolutionary theories in biology are complex, changing, and often controversial, the basic concepts of variation, selection, and transmission potentially have powerful applications in sociology. In such uses, a crucial distinction must be made between developmental processes and evolutionary processes. Two main approaches characterize current evolutionary thinking in sociology: sociobiological explanations, and coevolutionary accounts of the interaction of genes and culture. Evolution through natural selection can occur with genes, cultural elements, and any other self-replicating codes. Although social learning is the cultural analogue of genetic transmission, cultural evolution does not necessarily maximize genetic fitness. Newly emerging sociological theories of evolution hold promise of integrating micro- and macroprocesses, providing explanations of complexity and diversity in social change, reconciling ideas of agency and structure, and linking sociology to biology without misleading reductionism.
Matrix cracking and interface debonding in fiber-reinforced cement-matrix composites

Abstract The processes of matrix cracking and interface debonding were studied using the high sensitivity Moire interferometry technique. The experiments were conducted with continuous steel fiber reinforced cementitious composites subjected to uniaxial tension. The initiation and propagation of cracking and debonding were observed during the tests with the specimens of different fiber-volume ratios. Based on the experiments, the fiber stress, the interface slip, the interface shear stress, and the matrix strain distribution were calculated. It was shown that interfacial frictional shear stresses were not constant either along the whole interface or at different loading levels. The strain localization was observed in the matrix where it was bonded to the fiber. The average contribution of the matrix was greater for the composites with the higher fiber-volume ratio.
WE‐G‐211‐03: Development of Ultrasound Imaging Equipment

One of the earliest man‐made ultrasoundimages of the human body was produced by Dussik in 1941, when he attempted to image the brain using a through transmission technique. These early images were later judged to be artifacts related to sound wave transmission through skull bone. Pulse‐echo examination of the body started in the late 1940's following developments of sonar, radar, and ultrasound flaw detectors. Ludwig and colleagues measured speeds of sound in tissues, publishing the value 1540 m/s for many tissue paths, a figure still used today. Among the pioneering pulse‐ echo imaging teams in the USA were Wild and Reid who developed real time imaging of the breast in the early 1950's, and Howry and Bliss, who were able to generate detailed anatomical pictures of the neck by employing water bath scanners. Many other groups, including from Japan, Australia, and Europe were pursuing both A‐scope and B‐scope applications of ultrasound around this time. Notable achievements include work by Ian Donald in the UK, who in 1955 described a contact scanner and published B‐scope images depicting a variety of anatomical regions. The systems of Donald and of Wild are said to have inspired engineers from Howry's water bath team in Colorado to develop their own contact scanner, and in 1963 a new company, Physionics produced the first commercial, single element transducer “articulated arm” scanner. It provided bi‐stable B‐mode images on a storage oscilloscope, marking the beginning of widespread acceptance of this modality. Gradual instrument improvements include analog then digital scan converters for gray scale in the 70's, and both auxiliary and stand alone mechanical scanning real time probes. Phased array technology also emerged for cardiac imaging, as did linear arrays for obstetrics and abdominal imaging. Perhaps the most revolutionary instrument ever was produced in the early 1980's, the Acuson 128, introducing high image quality linear and phased array beamformed images for radiology applications and helping to conclude the brief era of manual scanners. As beamformers became digital devices in the 1990's, unprecedented image quality, diagnostic features, two dimensional arrays, and even system miniaturization evolved, bringing ultrasound imaging to its present state. The ultrasound field is still characterized by novel instruments emerging from the laboratories of clever scientists, addressing diagnostic and therapeutic needs not provided by present day technology. Learning Objectives: 1. Describe features of the first commercially available ultrasoundscanners. 2. Identify the relationship between technological developments in radar and emergence of ultrasound as a modality 3. Explain the significance of a high large channel count in beamforming 4. Contrast echo acquisition and processing in a modern scanner with first generation devices.
Automated segmentation of mucosal change in rhinosinusitis patients

Rhinosinusitis is a sinonasal disease affecting 16% of the population. Volumetric segmentation can provide objective data that is useful when determining stage and therapeutic response. An automated volumetric segmentation method was developed and tested. Four patients underwent baseline and follow-up CT scans. For each patient, five sections were outlined by two otolaryngologists and the automated method. The median Dice coefficient between otolaryngologists was 0.74. The otolaryngologist and automated segmentations demonstrated acceptable agreement with a median Dice coefficient of 0.61. This automated method represents the first step in the creation of a computerized system for the quantitative 3D analysis of rhinosinusitis.
Can the ubiquitous power of mobile phones be used to improve health outcomes in developing countries

The ongoing policy debate about the value of communications technology in promoting development objectives is diverse. Some view computer/web/phone communications technology as insufficient to solve development problems while others view communications technology as assisting all sections of the population. This paper looks at evidence to support or refute the idea that fixed and mobile telephones is, or could be, an effective healthcare intervention in developing countries. A Web-based and library database search was undertaken including the following databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, (nursing & allied health), Evidence Based Medicine (EBM), POPLINE, BIOSIS, and Web of Science, AIDSearch (MEDLINE AIDS/HIV Subset, AIDSTRIALS & AIDSDRUGS) databases. Evidence can be found to both support and refute the proposition that fixed and mobile telephones is, or could be, an effective healthcare intervention in developing countries. It is difficult to generalize because of the different outcome measurements and the small number of controlled studies. There is almost no literature on using mobile telephones as a healthcare intervention for HIV, TB, malaria, and chronic conditions in developing countries. Clinical outcomes are rarely measured. Convincing evidence regarding the overall cost-effectiveness of mobile phone " telemedicine" is still limited and good-quality studies are rare. Evidence of the cost effectiveness of such interventions to improve adherence to medicines is also quite weak. The developed world model of personal ownership of a phone may not be appropriate to the developing world in which shared mobile telephone use is important. Sharing may be a serious drawback to use of mobile telephones as a healthcare intervention in terms of stigma and privacy, but its magnitude is unknown. One advantage, however, of telephones with respect to adherence to medicine in chronic care models is its ability to create a multi-way interaction between patient and provider(s) and thus facilitate the dynamic nature of this relationship. Regulatory reforms required for proper operation of basic and value-added telecommunications services are a priority if mobile telecommunications are to be used for healthcare initiatives.
The effect of short-range order on stacking fault energy and dislocation arrangements in f.c.c. solid solutions

An increase in stacking fault energy, gamma , was observed in Cu-(30-31 at.%)Zn for very slowly cooled alloys and for specimens aged 1 hr at 200 deg C after rapid quenching, whereas in quenched alloys, gamma falls continuously. The dislocations remain coplanar in the alloys that showed an increase in gamma but were not extended. Similar effects were also found in certain austenitic stainless steels. When the Ni content of high-purity Fe/Cr base alloys is increased, the stacking fault energy increases. (P.C.H.)
Immunological Examinations of Species Variability in Predator Gut Content Assays: Effect of Predator:Prey Protein Ratio on Immunoassay Sensitivity

In qualitative predator gut content immunoassays, sensitivity of an immunoassay is important for determining whether a predator contains a targeted prey antigen. If the immunoassay employed is insensitive, the probability of obtaining a false-negative reaction is high. The sensitivity of an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) developed to detect pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), egg(s) in whole body homogenized predators varied in efficacy between species. Specifically, the indirect ELISA was more effective at detecting egg antigen in small predators than in large predators. In this study, we examined the effect that the predator:prey protein ratio has on the sensitivity of an indirect ELISA. Our results suggest that when assaying whole body homogenized predators, care must be taken not to overload an ELISA microplate with nontarget(predator)proteins.Predatorsamplesshould be diluted to less than 125 mg of total protein per sample. Any protein concentration above 125 mg per ELISA microplate well will likely result in an ELISA false-negative reaction. In another experiment, we compared the efficacy of an indirect ELISA with a dot blot immunoassay. Adults of Hippodamia convergens Guerin-Meneville (Coleoptera: Coccineliidae) that had eaten one pink bollworm egg were homogenized in variable dilutions of phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and each sample was analyzed for pink bollworm egg antigen using both immunoassays. The dot blot immunoassay was more reliable than the indirect ELISA for detecting minute traces of egg antigen in the samples. Generally, the volume of PBS that the H. convergens were homogenized in had little effect on the qualitative outcome of the dot blot. However, the indirect ELISA was more effective when H. convergens was homogenized in a larger volume of PBS. This suggests that the efficacy of an indirect ELISA can be improved for large, protein-rich predators by grinding them in a larger volume of PBS, thus minimizing the total protein in a given sample. r 1997 Academic Press
Integrated peer-to-peer applications for advanced emergency response systems. Part II. Technical feasibility

We present a study of the technical feasibility of applying peer-to-peer (P2P) technology to the domain of emergency response. The conceptual feasibility of such an endeavor is described in "Integrated Peer-to-Peer Applications for Advanced Emergency Response Systems Part I: Concept of Operations" (Bahora, et al.), which argues that current emergency response technologies do not adequately support the dynamic nature of emergency response. To provide support, peer-to-peer networks have been identified as an integrating architecture. We explore the integration of the peer-to-peer architecture, specifically the HyperCast peer-to-peer communications framework, with streaming video communication, GPS-based location awareness, and information access management control to better support emergency response. Upon conclusion of this research, these functionalities were implemented as prototypes.
Visual Concept Learning: Combining Machine Vision and Bayesian Generalization on Concept Hierarchies

Learning a visual concept from a small number of positive examples is a significant challenge for machine learning algorithms. Current methods typically fail to find the appropriate level of generalization in a concept hierarchy for a given set of visual examples. Recent work in cognitive science on Bayesian models of generalization addresses this challenge, but prior results assumed that objects were perfectly recognized. We present an algorithm for learning visual concepts directly from images, using probabilistic predictions generated by visual classifiers as the input to a Bayesian generalization model. As no existing challenge data tests this paradigm, we collect and make available a new, large-scale dataset for visual concept learning using the ImageNet hierarchy as the source of possible concepts, with human annotators to provide ground truth labels as to whether a new image is an instance of each concept using a paradigm similar to that used in experiments studying word learning in children. We compare the performance of our system to several baseline algorithms, and show a significant advantage results from combining visual classifiers with the ability to identify an appropriate level of abstraction using Bayesian generalization.
Molecular immunity to mycobacteria: knowledge from the mutation and phenotype spectrum analysis of Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial diseases

Understanding molecular immunity against mycobacterial infection is critical for the development of effective strategies to control tuberculosis (TB), which is a major health issue in the developing world. Host immunogenetic studies represent an indispensable approach to understand the molecular mechanisms against mycobacterial infection. A superb paradigm is the identification of rare mutations causing Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial diseases (MSMD). Mutations in the interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) receptor genes are highly specific (although not exclusive) for mycobacterial infection. Only dominant negative mutations of STAT1 have specific susceptibility to mycobacterial infection. Mutations in the interleukin-12 (IL-12) signaling genes have phenotypes with non-specificity. Current studies highlight a complex molecular network in antimycobacterial immunity, centered on IFN-γ signaling.
Oxygen Consumption During the Life Cycles of the Prepupa-Wintering Bee Megachile rotundata and the Adult-Wintering Bee Osmia lignaria (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae)

Abstract We studied the oxygen consumption of two megachilid bees (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae), Megachile rotundata (F.) and Osmia lignaria Say, at selected, biologically relevant intervals throughout their respective life cycles. The U-shaped oxygen consumption curve and the static weights of wintering (nonfeeding) prepupae that we observed during the life cycle of M. rotundata support previous arguments for a winter diapause similar to that observed in other Hymenoptera. For O. lignaria, which overwinters as an adult, we found stepwise increases in oxygen consumption and continuous weight loss throughout the wintering period. However, our observations on adult O. lignaria wintering requirements are consistent with the previously published results for overwintering M. rotundata prepupae and reveal sharply increasing survival rates when wintered for a minimum of 3 mo. We interpret the greatly reduced survival in both M. rotundata and O. lignaria, as an indication that a critical biological process, diapaus...
Internal structure characterization of asphalt mixtures for rutting performance using imaging analysis

Characterization of the asphalt concrete microstructure using two-dimensional (2-D) imaging techniques is an economically efficient approach. However, the features that have been captured and quantified using 2-D imaging in most published research have been limited to simplistic analyses of aggregate structure. The present research focused on introducing a more elaborate method of characterization of internal structure, and proposing new indices to relate to and explain rutting resistance performance of asphalt mixtures. The aggregate internal structure provides the skeleton of the asphalt concrete, which plays an important role in rutting resistance. It is shown that this structure can be captured using a combination of image analysis indices developed in this research, namely: number of aggregate-on-aggregate contact points, contact length/area, and contact plane orientation. These parameters are defined for both the total aggregates and for the effective load bearing aggregate structure, referred to as...
The Political Power of Organized Labor and the Politics of Foreign Direct Investment in Developed Democracies

How does organized labor shape restrictions on inward foreign direct investment (FDI)? Distributional consequences, drawn from heterogeneous firms theory, suggest that although inward FDI benefits ...
The rat submaxillary salivary gland. A correlative study by light and electron microscopy.

The rat submaxillary salivary gland has five distinct parenchymal zones. 1Acini consist of secretory and myoepithelial cells. An extensive network of canaliculi connect the many cells within an acinus to the main lumen. The fine structure of acinar secretory cells suggests that they are capable of great synthetic capacity; each cell having a large amount of ergastoplasm, many Golgi zones, and a great amount of secretory material. It is proposed that these cells are of the continually secreting type. 2Intercalated ducts consist of cuboidal cells and myoepithelium. This segment connects the acini to the main conduit system of the gland. The fine structure of the cuboidal cells indicates that they are essentially nonsecretory. 3The granular duct consists of three types of columnar cells; (a) dark narrow cells which contain many free ribosomes but no ergastoplasm or granules, (b) light granular cells which have varying amounts of ergastoplasm and granules, (c) dark granular cells which are full of granules while the other cell constituents including the nucleus, occupy a basal position. It is proposed that these three cells represent different secretory stages of the same cell type. This supports the interpretation that secretion in these cells is not continuous, but cyclic in nature. 4The striated duct forms a small portion of the total gland parenchyma and consists of tall columnar cells with extensive infolding of the basal plasma membrane, relatively little ergastoplasm and very few granules. It seems likely that ion and water metabolism is a specialized function of this segment. 5The excretory duct consists of three cell types: (a) tall columnar light cells, (b) dark columnar vesiculated cells and (c) small basal cells. The basal infoldings of these cells and the arrangement of many capillaries around these ducts suggests that this segment is primarily concerned with water transport.
Size dependence of the bandgap of plasma synthesized silicon nanoparticles through direct introduction of sulfur hexafluoride

Developing silicon nanoparticle (SiNP) synthesis techniques that allow for straightforward control of nanoparticle size and associated optical properties is critical to potential applications of these materials. In addition, it is, in general, hard to probe the absorption threshold in these materials due to silicon's low absorption coefficient. In this study, size is controlled through direct introduction of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) into the dilute silane precursor of plasma synthesized SiNPs. Size reduction by nearly a factor of two with high crystallinity independent of size is demonstrated. The optical absorption spectra of the SiNPs in the vicinity of the bandgap are measured using photothermal deflection spectroscopy. Bandgap as a function of size is extracted taking into account the polydispersity of the samples. A systematic blue shift in absorption edge due to quantum confinement in the SiNPs is observed with increasing flow of SF6. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra show a similar blue shift with si...
Adaptive spectrum sensing and estimation

We propose a multistage adaptive approach to spectrum sensing and estimation with the goal of concentrating more sensing resources on spectral components of interest. The allocation of resources to minimize the mean squared estimation error is formulated as a dynamic program. An optimal policy is given for the case of two sensing stages. For more than two stages, tractable approximate policies are developed based on open-loop feedback control (OLFC). These policies improve monotonically with the number of stages, and in particular upon the optimal two-stage policy. A spectrum sensing simulation shows substantial reductions in mean squared error compared to non-adaptive sensing and a recently proposed adaptive method. Performance gains in detecting unoccupied channels are also shown.
Potential climatic suitability for establishment of Phytophthora ramorum within the contiguous United States

Phytophthora ramorum has caused extensive mortality to tanoak and several oak species in coastal California. This pathogen has infected at least 72 plant species under natural conditions and 32 additional species in the laboratory. Many infected hosts have been distributed across the United States by the horticultural industry. We developed a simulation model using CLIMEX software to evaluate the suitability of the climate in the United States for establishment of P. ramorum. CLIMEX was driven by monthly climate normal data for 1971–2000 collected from >5300 weather stations in the contiguous United States. CLIMEX growth-requirement and stress-response parameters were derived from literature data. Values for the ecoclimatic index (EI), a measure of overall climatic suitability based on temperature and soil moisture, were between 0 and 53. Much of the Intermountain West and the Great Plains was climatically unsuitable for establishment of P. ramorum (EI = 0). Many states bordering the Great Lakes were marginal (0 25) for establishment of P. ramorum were common in the Gulf States, and areas considered favorable (10 < EI < 26) extended into southern Illinois, southern Indiana, and northwards into southern Maine. Predictions derived from CLIMEX matched known occurrences of P. ramorum in California and Oregon. Finds of the pathogen were 3.4-times more likely in areas classified as favorable or very favorable than in areas classified as marginal or unsuitable. Model results were only modestly sensitive to changes in values assigned to temperature parameters for growth but were more sensitive to changes in values assigned to moisture parameters for growth. Additional research is needed to determine the effects of low moisture on population growth of the pathogen. Nevertheless, our model distinguishes some areas within the contiguous United States that do not have a suitable climate for the pathogen. Such information could be used to refine survey and detection programs. # 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
SRAM SER in 90, 130 and 180 nm bulk and SOI technologies

We investigate the soft error rate (SER) of bulk and SOI SRAMs at the 90, 130 and 180 nm technology nodes. We use accelerated testing and Monte Carlo modeling to determine SER sensitivity to different radiation sources; we can therefore predict the product SER based on the radiation flux. Lifetests performed underground, near sea level, and at 10,000 feet confirm the predicted SER levels.
Favorable Pharmacodynamic Features and Superior Anti-Leukemic Activity of B43 (Anti-CD 19) Immunotoxins Containing Two Pokeweed Antiviral Protein Molecules Covalently Linked to each Monoclonal Antibody Molecule

Standard immunotoxin production procedures using whole IgG as the MoAb moiety yield a heterogeneous mixture of 180 kDa, 210 kDa, and 240 kDa immunotoxin species with 1 to 1, 1 to 2, and 1 to 3 MoAb to toxin ratios. This heterogeneity makes it impossible to precisely deliver a predetermined immunotoxin dose to target cells and impairs the accuracy of pharmacologic studies. In this report, we describe the preparation and characterization of B43(anti-CD19)-pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP) immunotoxins containing either one or two 30 kDa PAP toxin molecules covalently linked to each 150 kDa B43 monoclonal antibody molecule. Compared to the 180 kDa immunotoxin, the 210 kDA immunotoxin displayed greater in vitro chemical stability, resulted in higher systemic exposure levels in vivo, and was a more effective anti-leukemic agent in a SCID mouse model of human B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Taken together, the results of this study recommend the clinical evaluation of 210 kDa B43-PAP as a potentially mor...
Roundtable debate: Controversies in the management of the septic patient – desperately seeking consensus

Despite continuous advances in technologic and pharmacologic management, the mortality rate from septic shock remains high. Care of patients with sepsis includes measures to support the circulatory system and treat the underlying infection. There is a substantial body of knowledge indicating that fluid resuscitation, vasopressors, and antibiotics accomplish these goals. Recent clinical trials have provided new information on the addition of individual adjuvant therapies. Consensus on how current therapies should be prescribed is lacking. We present the reasoning and preferences of a group of intensivists who met to discuss the management of an actual case. The focus is on management, with emphasis on the criteria by which treatment decisions are made. It is clear from the discussion that there are areas where there is agreement and areas where opinions diverge. This presentation is intended to show how experienced intensivists apply clinical science to their practice of critical care medicine.
Programs/projects management and integrated product/process development in high technology electronic products industries

A summary overview of project/program management and its evolution to an integrated product/process team for high-technology product development (simultaneous engineering, etc.) is presented. Aspects of project/program management and product/process integration are also addressed. The team program planning, documentation, and control process for the product transformation/realization management process are presented and reviewed. It provides the potential and bias to drive the product/technology development process. References are made to a number of successful companies who are implementing the program/project management team product/process development process. >
Cluster and Sporadic Cases of Herbaspirillum Species Infections in Patients With Cancer

Herbaspirillum species are gram-negative, flagellate members of the Betaproteobacteria class of bacteria, which includes Burkholderia, Ralstonia, and other plant-associated bacteria. Most species of Herbaspirillum are nitrogen-fixing bacteria that are commonly found in the rhizosphere and colonize plants endophytically. They are found in the roots and stems of maize, rice, beans, bananas, sugar cane, pineapple, and other plants [1, 2] and they have been recovered from groundwater [3] and drinking water distribution systems [4] as well. In the published literature, Herbaspirillum species have been recovered from respiratory secretions of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) [5, 6] and described in case reports of 4 patients with bacteremia, 2 of whom had an underlying malignancy [6–9]. Its close phylogenetic and phenotypic resemblance to Burkholderia cepacia complex led to initial misidentification in 2 of the 4 reported cases [6, 9]. To our knowledge, no outbreaks or clusters of cases have been previously reported in the literature. Between June and August 2011, we identified an initial cluster of 5 patients with bloodstream infection caused by a gram-negative bacillus, initially identified as B. cepacia complex. The isolates were susceptible to all antibiotics tested, whereas over the years, previous B. cepacia isolates recovered in our institution were resistant to at least 1 and up to 4 of the antibiotics tested. These isolates were submitted to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Burkholderia cepacia Research Laboratory and Repository at the University of Michigan and were subsequently reidentified as Herbaspirillum species. We conducted a joint investigation with the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to determine the nature and extent of the cluster of Herbaspirillum species infections. This report describes the clinical and epidemiologic findings from our investigation and provides a review of the literature.
Maneuverability by the sea lion Zalophus californianus: turning performance of an unstable body design.

SUMMARY Maneuverability is critical to the performance of fast-swimming marine mammals that use rapid turns to catch prey. Overhead video recordings were analyzed for two sea lions ( Zalophus californianus ) turning in the horizontal plane. Unpowered turns were executed by body flexion in conjunction with use of the pectoral and pelvic flippers, which were used as control surfaces. A 90° bank angle was used in the turns to vertically orient the control surfaces. Turning radius was dependent on body mass and swimming velocity. Relative minimum radii were 9-17% of body length and were equivalent for pinnipeds and cetaceans. However, Zalophus had smaller turning radii at higher speeds than cetaceans. Rate of turn was inversely related to turn radius. The highest turn rate observed in Zalophus was 690 degrees s -1 . Centripetal acceleration measured up to 5.1 g for Zalophus . Comparison with other marine mammals indicates that Zalophus has a morphology that enhances instability, thus providing enhanced turning performance. Enhanced turning performance is necessary for sea lions to forage after highly elusive prey in structurally complex environments.
Recent advances in understanding the molecular basis of group B Streptococcus virulence.

Group B Streptococcus commonly colonises healthy adults without symptoms, yet under certain circumstances displays the ability to invade host tissues, evade immune detection and cause serious invasive disease. Consequently, Group B Streptococcus remains a leading cause of neonatal pneumonia, sepsis and meningitis. Here we review recent information on the bacterial factors and mechanisms that direct host–pathogen interactions involved in the pathogenesis of Group B Streptococcus infection. New research on host signalling and inflammatory responses to Group B Streptococcus infection is summarised. An understanding of the complex interplay between Group B Streptococcus and host provides valuable insight into pathogen evolution and highlights molecular targets for therapeutic intervention.
Do Economic Statistics Leak Out Before Their Official Announcements

The finding of this study is that most of the 14 economic data examined in this study appear to not leak out before the official announcement. However, it appears that three of the 14 may indeed become available to some traders. This statement is based on the facts that for each of the three number of positive observations are considerably above the halfway mark, and the net positive weighted values for each of the three are fairly high. These three variables are the Producer Price Inde3x, Consumer Credit, and the Purchasing Managers Survey.
The MNCS Global Ethics And Social Responsibility: A Strategic Diversity Management Imperative

A multinational corporation’s (MNC) ethical and social responsibility issues must be an integral part of its strategic management process. The MNC headquarters (HQ) must decide on its core ethical and social responsibility values and priorities, and, it should empower its foreign units to formulate their specific programs and strategies to respond to changing host countries’ environments.
Optimized Sensor Collaboration for Estimation of Temporally Correlated Parameters

In this paper, we aim to design the optimal sensor collaboration strategy for the estimation of time-varying parameters, where collaboration refers to the act of sharing measurements with neighboring sensors prior to transmission to a fusion center. We begin by addressing the sensor collaboration problem for the estimation of uncorrelated parameters. We show that the resulting collaboration problem can be transformed into a special nonconvex optimization problem, where a difference of convex functions carries all the nonconvexity. This specific problem structure enables the use of a convex–concave procedure to obtain a near-optimal solution. When the parameters of interest are temporally correlated, a penalized version of the convex–concave procedure becomes well suited for designing the optimal collaboration scheme. In order to improve computational efficiency, we further propose a fast algorithm that scales gracefully with problem size via the alternating direction method of multipliers. Numerical results are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach and the impact of parameter correlation and temporal dynamics of sensor networks on estimation performance.
Nonlinear and nonlocal effects on transverse Anderson localizations in disordered fibers

Two dimensional disordered systems sustain localized modes that may interact in the presence of a nonlinear optical response. We consider the effect of nonlinearity and nonlocality on the degree of localization and on the mutual interaction of disorder induced localized states.
Effects of Inhomogeneous Shell Thickness in the Charge Transfer Dynamics of ZnTe/CdSe Nanocrystals

ZnTe/CdSe core/shell nanocrystals with varying ZnTe core sizes and CdSe shell thickness have been synthesized. The absorption onset and photoluminescence (PL) wavelengths vary from the mid-visible to the near-infrared range. The conduction and valence band energies as well as bandgap and electron–hole overlap are accurately described by an effective mass approximation model. These particles are type-II, with the hole confined to the ZnTe core. PL quenching dynamics of ZnTe/CdSe nanocrystals having various shell thicknesses by hole acceptors are studied. A model has been developed to describe the interfacial charge transfer of the core-confined holes to adsorbed acceptors. This model considers a Poisson distribution of acceptor numbers and includes shell thickness variability. The shell thickness variability occurs on each particle and corresponds to surface roughness. The shell local thickness is assumed to have a Poisson distribution of numbers of layers.
Rubber—Black Interaction Influence on Cure Level of Vulcanizates

Abstract The crosslink density of vulcanizates has been quantitatively investigated using swelling measurements (Vr) of compounds of cis-1,4-polybutadiene reinforced with N242, N326, or N990 (Vulcan 6H, Regal 300, Sterling MT). Crosslink density in both filled and unfilled stocks is shown to be related to the molar concentration of the curatives in the unbound rubber phase of the vulcanizates and not merely to total concentration. The effects of different carbon black loadings and of cure time are demonstrated to be fully describable by the extent of carbon black—rubber interaction, measured by bound rubber; that occurs during mixing and during the induction period of the cure step. Greater rubber-black interaction, whether achieved by higher black level or from higher reinforcing blacks, always yielded vulcanizates of increased crosslink density compared to an identically vulcanized gum control. Calculating curative concentration on the basis of unbound rubber—rather than total rubber—illustrated the exp...
The Effect of Vitamin D Deficiency on Bone Repletion

AbstractThe present study was undertaken to determine the effects of vitamin D deficiency, serum calcium, and PTH on the two major bone changes associated with bone repletion: the increase in endos...
Modulation of Transmitter Release by Action Potential Duration at the Hippocampal CA3-CA1 Synapse

Qian, Jing and Peter Saggau. Modulation of transmitter release by action potential duration at the hippocampal CA3-CA1 synapse. J. Neurophysiol. 81: 288–298, 1999. Presynaptic Ca2+ influx through v...
Reducing cell-to-cell spacing for large-format lithium ion battery modules with aluminum or PCM heat sinks under failure conditions

Abstract Thermal management is critical for large-scale, shipboard energy storage systems utilizing lithium-ion batteries. In recent years, there has been growing research in thermal management of lithium-ion battery modules. However, there is little information available on the minimum cell-to-cell spacing limits for indirect, liquid cooled modules when considering heat release during a single cell failure. For this purpose, a generic four-cell module was modeled using finite element analysis to determine the sensitivity of module temperatures to cell spacing. Additionally, the effects of different heat sink materials and interface qualities were investigated. Two materials were considered, a solid aluminum block and a metal/wax composite block. Simulations were run for three different transient load profiles. The first profile simulates sustained high rate operation where the system begins at rest and generates heat continuously until it reaches steady state. And, two failure mode simulations were conducted to investigate block performance during a slow and a fast exothermic reaction, respectively. Results indicate that composite materials can perform well under normal operation and provide some protection against single cell failure; although, for very compact designs, the amount of wax available to absorb heat is reduced and the effectiveness of the phase change material is diminished. The aluminum block design performed well under all conditions, and showed that heat generated during a failure is quickly dissipated to the coolant, even under the closest cell spacing configuration.