cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of neutrons using a novel three-dimensional optical random access memory technology (3D-ORAM)

12 We report for the first time, the development of a 3D optical random access memory material for neutron dosimetry. Detection of energetic neutrons is important in many applications, spanning from radioactive waste monitoring to space exploration. These anthracene-based photochromic dosimeters show a decrease in fluorescence intensity following exposure to energetic neutrons. Unlike current neutron dosimeters, where foreknowledge of the neutron energy is necessary to determine an exposure dose, these materials can be used in unknown environments (e.g. space exploration). A readout system has also been developed to determine the radiation characteristics (e.g. neutron energy) necessary for estimating dose. The results presented in this work, demonstrate the potential of these novel materials for space exploration and other applications where foreknowledge of neutron energy is unknown and current dosimeters are incapable of providing accurate dose information.
DOMMINO: a database of macromolecular interactions

With the growing number of experimentally resolved structures of macromolecular complexes, it becomes clear that the interactions that involve protein structures are mediated not only by the protein domains, but also by various non-structured regions, such as interdomain linkers, or terminal sequences. Here, we present DOMMINO (http://dommino.org), a comprehensive database of macromolecular interactions that includes the interactions between protein domains, interdomain linkers, N- and C-terminal regions and protein peptides. The database complements SCOP domain annotations with domain predictions by SUPERFAMILY and is automatically updated every week. The database interface is designed to provide the user with a three-stage pipeline to study macromolecular interactions: (i) a flexible search that can include a PDB ID, type of interaction, SCOP family of interacting proteins, organism name, interaction keyword and a minimal threshold on the number of contact pairs; (ii) visualization of subunit interaction network, where the user can investigate the types of interactions within a macromolecular assembly; and (iii) visualization of an interface structure between any pair of the interacting subunits, where the user can highlight several different types of residues within the interfaces as well as study the structure of the corresponding binary complex of subunits.
A visitor's guide to the Kitt Peak observatories, by Leslie Sage and Gail Aschenbrenner

Book Review: A Visitor's Guide to the Kitt Peak Observatories, Leslie Sage, Gail Aschenbrenner. Cambridge University Press (2004).
Building And Using A Data Base To Identify Parameters To Further Improve Diagnostic Performance On The Toshiba Computed Radiography System Model 201

Department of RadiologyUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences CenterTucson, Arizona2Optical Sciences Center and Psychology DepartmentUniversity of ArizonaTucson, ArizonaIntroductionThe digital imaging group at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center Radiology Department is vigorously pursuing the development of a total digital radiology department (TDRD). One avenue of research being conducted is to define the needed resolutions and capabilities of TDRD systems. Parts of that effort are described in these proceedings1 "8 and elsewhere.9"13 One of these investigations is to assess the general application of computed radiography (CR) in clinical imaging. Specifically we are comparing images produced by the Toshiba computed radiography system (Model 201) to those produced by conventional imaging techniques. This paper describes one aspect of that work.Most research has indicated that digital images can give diagnostic information comparable to that derived from conventional film-screen radiography.14"23 Also, digital systems image processing may yield additional information that might not be fully appreciated on conven­ tional radiographs. However, acquiring the data necessary to (1) evaluate in which situations additional information may be extracted, (2) define the important processing parameters; and (3) define which of these parameters are most important for a specific clinical technique, has not been attempted.To answer these questions we have begun building a data base that contains physical, psy- chophysical, and clinical information for clinical cases imaged using our Toshiba computed radiography (TCR) system. We expect that by examining, comparing, and analyzing the trends inherent in the data we will gain information which will aid us in developing strateg­ ies to answer the above questions, either through raising research questions or by finding relationships that are not readily apparent.Another reason for developing this data base is to give us experience in working with this type of information. We feel this will prove invaluable as we start connecting a PACS net­ work to our Radiology and Hospital information systems. The potential for utilizing patient demographic and case information for research and development purposes has only been dimly envisioned.This paper describes the types of information we intend to include in the data base and some early analysis which contrasts diagnostic certainty and image quality ratings to the TCR image's system sensitivity.
An accurate calibration method of effective focal length for machine vision applications

Abstract Automated visual inspection, visual feedback control and navigation guidance apply machine vision. To achieve successful operations, the video camera's effective focal length has to be specified. An accurate, low-cost calibration method which identifies the value of effective focal length is explored, and the sensitivity analysis is presented. The proposed method requires no special equipment other than a simple reference object, which can be either a three-dimensional cube or a two-dimensional square. Numerical examples and results of the field experiments demonstrate that the method yields accurate results.
An automated digital beam profile system for ultrasonic transducer characterization

Abstract An automated digital beam profile system (ADBP) which uses feedback motion control and image processing techniques is presented. The system consists of a three-dimensional mechanical scanner, a host personal computer (PC), a PC plug-in pulser/receiver board, a PC plug-in digitizer board and a PC plug-in motor controller board. The powerful software package can automatically control and dynamically adjust the movement of a transducer to compensate for system mechanical discrepancy. It also combines the functions of a digital oscilloscope, a spectrum analyser, a digital gate, image formation and analysis tools to become a fully integrated transducer characterization system. Descriptions of the system software and hardware, testing procedures and results for a transducer are also included.
Development of the pet bereavement questionnaire

AbstractThe death of a pet can be a significant stressor for some people and is a known risk factor for depression. The Pet Bereavement Questionnaire (PBQ) was developed to fill the need for a brief, acceptable, well-validated instrument for use in studies of the psychological impact of losing a pet. Initial results suggest that the PBQ has good internal reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.87), as well as good construct validity, with three distinct factors reflecting grief, anger and guilt. Grief was found to correlate strongly with pet attachment. The anger and guilt scales, however, correlated with depressive symptoms. The PBQ discriminated between individuals seeking support after pet loss (who would be expected to show higher levels of bereavement) and those who simply acknowledge the recent loss of a pet. We suggest that future research into pet bereavement use this new questionnaire so that the results of different studies can be compared, normative scores can be developed and researchers in this area ca...
Lessons Learnt from the Optical Communications Demonstrator (OCD)

The Optical Communications Demonstrator (OCD) is a laboratory based lasercom terminal that was developed to validate several key technologies such as precision beam pointing, high bandwidth beacon tracking and beacon acquisition. The unique architecture of OCD uses a single focal plane array (FPA) and a single fine steering mirror (FSM) for beacon acquisition, beacon tracking and point-ahead compensation. A fiber-coupled laser transmitter further reduces the complexity of the terminal. Over the last year, system level integration, test and characterization of the terminal were conducted. Here we present results from the integration and test (I&T) of the terminal with the Lasercom Terminal Evaluation Station (LTES), with particular emphasis on the fine tracking performance. Furthermore, we will describe lessons learnt from the implementation and testing of OCD that are relevant to the design of future flight optical communication terminals. The completed OCD is now being used in a series of ground-ground experiments to understand atmospheric effects and to gain experience operating the OCD.
Dynamics of the chemiluminescent reaction C + SO2 → SO(A 3Π) + CO

The vibrational energy distributions of SO(A) in the chemiluminescent reaction C( 3 P) +SO 2 - SO(A 3 π) + CO have been analyzed at different reaction energies. It shows a change in dynamical behavior from a complex formation at low energy to a rebound mechanism at higher energy. Qualitative molecular orbital theory provides a reasonable explanation for such an unexpected behavior.
An analysis of technetium (99mTcO4-) kinetics: the effect of perchlorate and iodide pretreatment.

Abstract Pretreatment with perchlorate or iodide prior to technetium brain scanning has been advocated to reduce the radioactivity emanating from the choroid plexus. By blocking tissue technetium uptake this pretreatment may alter the blood background significantly. The kinetics of technetium blood disappearance and body distribution were evaluated in multiple blood samples withdrawn from 21 patients who were having technetium brain scans. The patients were divided into three groups; (1) control; (2) pretreated with perchlorate; and (3) pretreated with iodide. The activity of the blood was plotted against time and trends were found to fit a model: The tissue compartment appears almost completely blocked by the perchlorate or iodide and the rate constant are found to be k 1 = 0·19 hr −1 , k 2 = 1·47 hr −1 , k 3 = 1·7 hr −1 . From these observations we conclude that equimolar perchlorate and iodide have similar effects on technetium body distribution kinetics and almost completely block a large segment of tissue accretion. These observations provide useful dosimetric data for assessing the effect of iodide or perchlorate pretreatment upon the biologic half life (tissue residence) of pertechnetate and suggest that the optimal time for brain scintiscanning in patients pretreated with perchlorate of iodide is somewhat later than that usually performed shortly after the intravenous injection of technetium.
Molecular structures of two unexpected metal complexes obtained from additions of coordinated phosphines to acetylenes

The syntheses and structures of two new compounds are reported. The first compound, [Cr(CO)4]2[C4F2(PPh2)4], obtained from Cr(CO)4(PPh2H)2 and CF3CCF3 in the presence of one equivalent of BuLi has a structure with the ligand 1,2,3,4-tetrakis(diphenylphosphino)-1,4-difluorobutadiene chelating to two Cr(CO)4 groups via the 1,4 and 2,3 phosphine groups. A mechanism for the formation of this compound is suggested which involves sequential deprotonation of a phosphine, nucleophilic attack on the fluorocarbon, and fluoride ion elimination. The second compound, CrC36H28P2O7, arises from a similar base promoted reaction of Cr(CO)4-(PPhH2)2 and PhCCCOOEt. Here the expected initial product from cyclization of these reactants acts as a nucleophile to attack a second equivalent of the acetylene. The intermediate carbanion from this reaction can undergo a ring closure by displacement of OEt-, giving the observed product.
Pathologic Grade and Tumor Size are Associated with Recurrence-Free Survival in Patients with Duodenal Neuroendocrine Tumors

Duodenal neuroendocrine tumors are rare and few studies exist to guide surgical management. This study identifies factors associated with recurrence after resection. A retrospective, single institution review was performed between 1983 and 2011 on patients with a pathologic diagnosis of duodenal neuroendocrine tumor. Tumor grade was assigned based on WHO 2010 criteria (Ki-67 and mitotic rate). Seventy-five patients were identified that underwent curative resection. This included 12 patients with endoscopic mucosal resection, 34 that had local resection, and 29 that underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy. Two-year and 5-year recurrence-free survival was 84 and 81 %, respectively. There were 11 tumor recurrences (either local or distant), and four patients died of their disease (3/4 had high-grade lesions) with an overall median follow-up of 27 months. On univariate analysis, tumor size and tumor grade were identified as being associated with recurrence, but not intervention type, lymph node metastases, ampullary location, or margin status. Tumor grade and size are associated with recurrence-free survival in duodenal neuroendocrine tumors. When feasible, a less aggressive surgical approach to treat low-grade and low-stage duodenal NETs should be considered.
Corrosion resistance, coating, and magnetic property issues of nonmagnetic austenitic stainless steels for ship hulls

Abstract This article reviews the issues relating to corrosion behavior, coating technology, and magnetic properties of certain austenitic stainless steels being considered as candidate materials for the nonmagnetic advanced double hulls of future U.S. Navy combatants. The issues are discussed by considering the properties of the domestically produced stainless steels AISI Type 316 (UNS S31600), Nitronic 50 (UNS S20910), and AL 6XN (UNS N08367) and the German Navy's experience with the German stainless steel 1.3964.9, which has been used extensively as a nonmagnetic hull material for their submarines and mine countermeasure vessels. The article also identifies the need for an environmentally acceptable coating system capable of preventing crevice corrosion at the crevice formed between the stainless steel and the paint film. Issues needing clarification by further research and testing are noted.
Jovian meteorology: Large-scale moist convection

The suggestion that latent heat of water controls Jovian meteorology is reviewed, and predictions are made for the other outer planets. The observed slow variation and two-dimensional character of motions at cloud-top level is explained. It depends on (1) the thermal structure between water-cloud level and the level of emission to space being closely adiabatic and (2) the large static stability of the emission layer.
Structural analysis on massively parallel computers

Abstract An implementation is presented for JAC3D on two massively parallel hypercube computers. JAC3D, a three-dimensional finite element code developed at Sandia, uses several hundred hours of CRAY time each year in solving structural analysis problems. Two major areas of investigation are discussed: (1) the development of general methods, data structures, and routines to communicate information between processors, and (2) the implementation and evaluation of four algorithms to map problems onto the node processors of the hypercube in a load-balanced fashion. The performance of JAC3D on a 1024-processor NCUBE 2 and NCUBE/ten hypercubes is compared with that on a CRAY X-MP: the NCUBE 2 version presently takes 20% of the computer time of a CRAY processor.
Clinical Pharmacological Issues in Treating Psychiatric Disorders of Patients with Mental Retardation

AbstractThe following practical issues in psychopharmacotherapy of patients with mental retardation (MR) or other developmental disability (DD) are discussed, with some theoretical speculations: Persons with MR/DD have high rates of psychiatric disorders/symptoms, many of which are drug-responsive and not satisfactorily treated with other modalities alone. However, diagnosis is often complicated by concurrent multiple disorders (both psychiatric and medical/surgical), masking or distortion of symptoms, and communication impairments. Comorbidity and associated treatments should be considered in medication choice. Compared to psychiatric patients of normal IQ, patients with MR may be more sensitive to side effects and toxicity as well as responsive to lower doses, possibly related to less neuronal substrate, qualitative brain differences, or developmental stage. Unexpected or disappointing drug responses may also be related to such statistical quirks as “end-of-curve” phenomena. Ripples, ratcheting, and oth...
Selective cannulation of the anterior interventricular vein and coronary sinus: Potential applications

A technique of cannulation of the anterior interventricular vein (AIV) selectively, along with selective cannulation of the coronary sinus, is described. The technique was successful in 61 of 82 patients (76%) in whom it was attempted. There were no serious complications. The technique allows one to obtain blood samples simultaneously from the anterior interventricular vein and the coronary sinus, so that the metabolism of the left ventricular anterior wall and that of the overall left ventricle can be studied. Possible clinical applications of simultaneous investigation of the left ventricular anterior wall and global myocardial metabolism are discussed.
AOA estimation with merged measurements from squint beam monopulse data in conjunction with multiple range samples

A key assumption in monopulse based angle-of-arrival (AOA) estimators is that at most one return from a single object is present in each range cell, or equivalently in each sample of the matched filter output. These algorithms break down if the data consists of merged measurements -multiple target returns contained in the same range cell. The proposed technique makes use of data from a three channel monopulse radar to estimate the AOA of two targets from merged measurements. Specifically, the technique capitalizes on the structure of squint beams in conjunction with multiple range samples to resolve the multiple targets. The paper focuses on the development of the new algorithm along with results from computer simulations that demonstrate its viability. To illustrate the utility of this technique to target tracking problems, comparative Monte Carlo results of performance of a tracker with the new technique and conventional monopulse AOA estimates are provided.© (2003) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Sensory evaluation of a nutritional beverage containing canola oil/caprylic acid structured lipid

Chocolate-flavored nutritional beverages were formulated with canola oil and a structured lipid (SL) to determine the effect of the SL on the sensory profile of the beverage. The SL was synthesized from canola oil and caprylic acid in a bioreactor packed with an sn-1,3-specific lipase obtained from Rhizomucor miehei. Differences were determined by using a triangle test panel comprising 38 members and a 7-member trained quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) panel. Twenty-three panelists correctly identified the odd sample during the triangle testing, which corresponds to a significant difference (P<0.01). QDA results indicated that substituting the SL for unmodified canola oil significantly enhanced the perception of sweet flavor and decreased bubble formation. All other attributes were unchanged when the SL was substituted for unmodified canola oil in the beverage formulations. This SL may be suitable for use by manufacturers of nutritional beverages who market their products to people on modified diets and patients who are recovering from illness or injury. The new formulation would provide consumers with a source of energy that is more readily metabolized in the body while providing essential FA.
Plant-virus interactions and the agro-ecological interface

As a result of human activities, an ever-increasing portion of Earth’s natural landscapes now lie adjacent to agricultural lands. This border between wild and agricultural communities represents an agro-ecological interface, which may be populated with crop plants, weeds of crop systems, and non-crop plants that vary from exotic to native in origin. Plant viruses are important components of the agro-ecological interface because of their ubiquity, dispersal by arthropod vectors, and ability to colonize both crop and wild species. Here we provide an overview of research on plant-virus dynamics across this interface and suggest three research priorities: (1) an increased effort to identify and describe plant virus diversity and distribution in its entirety across agricultural and ecological boundaries; (2) multi-scale studies of virus transmission to develop predictive power in estimating virus propagation across landscapes; and (3) quantitative evaluation of the influence of viruses on plant fitness and populations in environmental contexts beyond crop fields. We close by emphasizing that agro-ecological interfaces are dynamic, influenced by the human-mediated redistribution of plants, vectors, and viruses around the world, climate change, and the development of new crops. Consideration of virus interactions within these environmentally complex systems promises new insight into virus, plant, and vector dynamics from molecular mechanisms to ecological consequences.
Surgical treatment of anomalies of the coronary arteries

Abstract Many anomalies of the coronary arteries may be corrected by surgical procedures. Those with fistulas into the right side of the heart, atrium, ventricle and pulmonary artery, are most favorable for treatment. Most of these have loud continuous murmurs. 42 cases from the literature are reviewed, and we have added 6 cases. There has been no mortality in any of these operations. In some cases of single coronary artery with fistula, it is feasible to establish a dual coronary circulation with a graft to the aorta. Attempts at the surgical treatment of patients with single coronary arteries which do not have the correct distribution or size to nourish the myocardium have not been palliated by operative procedures. The same can be said of cases with anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery, where no collateral connections with the right coronary artery have developed. Cardiac transplantation must be considered for these cases.
Quasi-free electron energy in near critical point helium

Abstract We present for the first time the quasi-free electron energy V 0 ( ρ ) in helium from low density to the density of the triple point liquid (gaseous helium/liquid helium I/liquid helium II triple point), on a noncritical isotherm and on an isotherm near the critical temperature. These data were obtained using field enhanced photoemission, a new experimental technique for the characterization of dense fluids. A novel critical point effect in helium is presented and is accurately fitted to the local Wigner–Seitz model. This model, which was developed for attractive fluids, is thereby shown to be applicable to repulsive fluids as well.
Understanding urban anthropology: A review of anthropology of the city

Edwin Eames and Judith Granich Goode, eds. Anthropology of the City. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentice‐Hall, Inc., 1977. 344 pp. Bibliography, indexes. $8.95.
Performance Analysis of Energy-Efficient Power Allocation for MIMO-MRC Systems

We formulate an adaptive power allocation problem where we minimize the energy-per-goodbit (EPG) of a system employing a multiple-input multiple-output maximum ratio combining (MIMO-MRC) scheme. Closed-form results are obtained for the optimum transmit power and minimum EPG as a function of the number of antennas employed and the quality of the channel. To assess the performance of the solution in a statistically varying channel, we obtain the cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the minimum EPG in closed form. We explore the energy-efficiency trade-off between enhanced diversity and the increased circuit power consumption of multiple antennas. In particular, we use the EPG CDF in a numerical example to find the most energy-efficient number of antennas for a given probability of outage. We consider both Rayleigh and Rician MIMO fading channels.
Interaction of harmonic waves with a periodic array of inclined cracks

Abstract Reflection and transmission of a longitudinal wave by a periodic array of inclined two-dimensional cracks has been investigated. By using the Betti-Rayleigh reciprocity relation, a pair of singular integral equations has been derived for the crack-opening displacements. The singular integral equations have been solved by the use of the boundary element method. Reflection and transmission coefficients of zeroth order have been expressed in terms of the crack-opening displacements by an application of the Betti-Rayleigh reciprocity relation. These coefficients have been computed for normal and oblique incidence, for collinear and inclined cracks, and for various values of the wave number. The results for normal incidence on collinear cracks have been compared with earlier results, and excellent agreement has been obtained. The results for oblique wave incidence or inclined cracks show mode conversion, and they display the dependence of the reflection and the transmission coefficients on the frequency of the incident wave.
Relevance of purine catabolism to hypoxia and recovery in euryoxic and stenoxic marine invertebrates, particularly bivalve molluscs

Abstract 1. Activities of xanthine dehydrogenase (XDH) and xanthine oxidase (XOD) were measured in a variety of euryoxic and stenoxic marine molluscs. 2. Euryoxic bivalves contain only XDH activity which, unlike the mammalian enzyme, is not converted to XOD during anoxic exposure. 3. XOD activity was detected predominantly in stenoxic bivalves such as Pecten maximus, Placopeclen magellanicus, and in the cephalopod Loligo opalescens. Although extremely variable, XOD activity increased 4-fold in Cardium edule and 13-fold in Pecten maximus during anoxic exposures of 56 hr and 0.5 hr respectively. 4. The data suggest that euryoxic species may tolerate anoxic-normoxic transitions in part by possessing a form of XDH that resists conversion to XOD (a source of Superoxide radicals responsible for ischemia-reperfusion tissue injury in mammals). 5. XDH activities in Carcinus maenas digestive gland are sufficient to account fully for the urate reported to accumulate during hypoxia.
Lower temperature during the dark cycle affects disease development on Lygodium microphyllum (Old World climbing fern) by Bipolaris sacchari.

Abstract Growth chamber experiments were conducted to examine environmental parameters affecting disease development by the indigenous pathogen Bipolaris sacchari isolate LJB-1L on the invasive weed Lygodium microphyllum (Old World climbing fern). An initial experiment examined three different temperature regimes (20/15, 25/20, 30/25 °C; light/dark cycle) and three different periods of leaf wetness (12, 24, 48 h). Disease incidence was significantly reduced by incubation of plants at the highest temperature regime (30/25 °C) and with the shortest period of leaf wetness (12 h). Subsequent experiments concentrated on the effect of temperature, as determination of an optimal temperature for disease development might determine the best time of year for field inoculations with this fungus. When the light cycle temperature was kept constant at 30 °C, a dark cycle temperature of 15 °C was more conducive for disease development than 25 °C based on disease incidence and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC). A qualitative examination of conidia germination and appressorial formation in vivo indicated that these initial steps toward infection were probably not influenced by the dark cycle temperature. In vitro, temperature (range of 15–35 °C) did not significantly affect conidia germination, but hyphal growth was significantly affected, with optimal growth between 25 and 30 °C.
Measuring Consumer Impatience and the Effects of Timing in Name-Your-Own-Price Channels

This paper presents a decision analytic model to determine the optimal bidding sequence in a repeat-bid name-your-own-price (NYOP) channel. The model takes into account the impatience of the bidders, and determines the optimal bidding strategies when time intervals are enforced between successive offers. We also use the model to measure the impatience and the frictional costs exhibited by bidders in an experimental setting. We report the results of an empirical study that is conducted with faculty, staff, and students at the University of Illinois. We discuss the levels of impatience they exhibited when time intervals were enforced between each successive offer. We, then, assess the predictive power of the model and compare the theoretical and the actual bids in a variety of different scenarios. We examine the effects of repeat bidding, and the duration between successive offers on the bidder's impatience level. Then, we discuss the repeat bidding NYOP setting from the perspective of an auction firm. We observed that firms do not always suffer from allowing multiple bids. They can in fact benefit from repeat bidding, if they set the threshold price appropriately. We analyze how the firm's profit changes with 1) the threshold price; 2) the number of repeat bids; and 3) the bidder characteristics.
Template directed assembly of dynamic micellar nanoparticles

The ability to pattern functional nanoparticle arrays in multiple dimensions will enable future devices which exhibit functions that cannot be realized using unstructured nanoparticle arrays. Here we demonstrate the unique assembly properties of dynamic micellar nanoparticles by combining a top down lithographic nanopatterning technique with a solution-based bottom up self-assembly. The templates for the directed self-assembly of the micelles consisted of arrays of cylindrical recess features fabricated by nanoimprint lithography. Silica was coated on this patterned substrate and subsequently selectively functionalized with a positively charged molecular monolayer (N-(3-Trimethoxysilylpropyl) diethylenetriamine) to regulate the micelle-surface interactions. The self-assembled block co-polymer polystyrene-b-poly(4-vinyl pyridine) (PS480k–PVP145k) micelles were approximately 325nm in diameter in aqueous solutions (pH = 2.5) and 50nm in diameter in the dry state. The average number of micelles assembled per feature increased from less than 1 to 12 with increasing feature diameter in the range of 200nm–1μm. Using a 2D model for maximum packing of circles in circular host features, the effective sphere size of the micelles during assembly was calculated to be 250nm in diameter. Thus, the micelles exhibited three characteristic sizes during assembly, 325nm in bulk solution, 250nm during assembly, and 50nm in the dry state. This dramatic variation in nanoparticle volume during the assembly process offers unique opportunities for forming nanometre scale, multidimensional arrays not accessible using hard sphere building blocks.
A Novel SFBC-OFDM Scheme for Doubly Selective Channels

Effective intercarrier interference (ICI) mitigation for multiple-input-multiple-output orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (MIMO-OFDM) requires accurate channel estimation, which is very challenging due to the large number and fast time-varying nature of the channel parameters to be estimated using scattered pilots. We present a novel space-frequency block coding OFDM (SFBC-OFDM) scheme for doubly selective channels and a reduced-complexity channel-estimation algorithm, which exploits the banded and sparse structure of the channel in the frequency and time domains, respectively. Furthermore, we design a finite-impulse-response minimum-mean-square-error (FIR-MMSE) ICI cancellation algorithm for mobile SFBC-OFDM and demonstrate its effectiveness for digital video broadcasting-handheld (DVB-H) systems.
A Novel Invisible Color Image Watermarking Scheme Using Image Adaptive Watermark Creation and Robust Insertion-Extraction

In this paper we present a robust and novel strategic invisible approach for insertion-extraction of a digital watermark, a color image, into color images. The novelty of our scheme lies in determining a perceptually important sub-image in the host image so that slight tampering of the sub-image will affect the aesthetic of the host image significantly. This eliminates the possibility of watermark removal, which in turn makes the watermark secure and robust. The other novel feature of our algorithm is the creation of a compound watermark image, called effective watermark, using the input user watermark (logo) and attributes of host image, which facilitates robust insertion-extraction processes. The effective watermark creation consists of two distinct phases: in the first phase, a statistical image is synthesized from a perceptually important sub-image of the host image and in the second phase, a compound image is created by fusing the input logo and synthetic statistical image. Results of exhaustive experimentation using standard benchmarks demonstrates the robustness and efficacy of our approach
Recommendations for presenting analyses of effect modification and interaction

Authors often do not give sufficient information to draw conclusions about the size and statistical significance of interaction on the additive and multiplicative scales. To improve this, we provide four steps, template tables and examples. We distinguish two cases: when the causal effect of intervening on one exposure, across strata of another factor, is of interest (‘effect modification’); and when the causal effect of intervening on two exposures is of interest (‘interaction’). Assume we study whether X modifies the effect of A on D, where A, X and D are dichotomous. We propose presenting: (i) relative risks (RRs), odds ratios (ORs) or risk differences (RDs) for each (A, X) stratum with a single reference category taken as the stratum with the lowest risk of D; (ii) RRs, ORs or RDs for A within strata of X; (iii) interaction measures on additive and multiplicative scales; (iv) the A–D confounders adjusted for. Assume we study the interaction between A and B on D, where A, B and D are dichotomous. Steps (i) and (iii) are similar to presenting effect modification. (ii) Present RRs, ORs or RDs for A within strata of B and for B within strata of A. (iv) List the A–D and B–D confounders adjusted for. These four pieces of information will provide a reader the information needed to assess effect modification or interaction. The presentation can be further enriched when exposures have multiple categories. Our proposal hopefully encourages researchers to present effect modification and interaction analyses in as informative a manner as possible.
Real-time polymerase chain reaction assays for the detection and quantification of Edwardsiella tarda, Edwardsiella piscicida, and Edwardsiella piscicida–like species in catfish tissues and pond water:

Researchers have proposed the adoption of 3 distinct genetic taxa among bacteria previously classified as Edwardsiella tarda; namely E. tarda, E. piscicida, and a taxon presently termed E. piscicida-like. Individual real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays were developed, based on published primers, for E. tarda, E. piscicida, and E. piscicida-like sp. to provide rapid quantitative confirmatory tests for these phenotypically ambiguous bacteria. The qPCR assays were shown to be repeatable and reproducible, with high degrees of sensitivity and specificity. Each assay showed a linear dynamic range covering 8 orders of magnitude and a sensitivity limit of 5 copies of target DNA in a 15-µL reaction. In addition, each assay was found specific to their respective targets with no observed amplification from nontarget organisms, including the closely related E. ictaluri and E. hoshinae. Under the conditions used in this study, the 3 assays had a quantifiable limit ranging from 10(3) (E. piscicida) to 10(2) (E. piscicida-like and E. tarda) colony forming units in kidney tissue biopsies (approximately 25 mg), pond water samples (35 mL), and broth culture (20 μL). In experimental challenges, the assays were able to detect their respective targets in both clinically and subclinically infected channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) fingerlings. In addition to quantifying target bacteria from various substrates, the assays provide rapid identification, differentiation, and confirmation of the phenotypically indistinguishable E. tarda, E. piscicida, and E. piscicida-like sp., a valuable tool for diagnostic assessments.
The development of the reactor safety film

The first computer-generated film of LASL's Reactor Safety efforts was developed using the ANIMATE framework, a program that adds visual capabilities to MAPPER. Numerous software limitations had to be overcome within a very limited production schedule. A significant achievement was the 15,000-vector-per-frame sequence depicting a pressurized water reactor core with parts flashing while pumps circulate fluid through the system.
APOE genotype alters glial activation and loss of synaptic markers in mice.

The e4 allele of the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene is the strongest genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD), and affects clinical outcomes of chronic and acute brain damages. The mechanisms by which apoE affect diverse diseases and disorders may involve modulation of the glial response to various types of brain damage. We examined glial activation in a mouse model where each of the human APOE alleles are expressed under the endogenous mouse APOE promoter, as well as in APOE knock-out mice. APOE4 mice displayed increased glial activation in response to intracerebroventricular lipopolysaccharide (LPS) compared to APOE2 and APOE3 mice by several measures. There were higher levels of microglia/macrophage, astrocytes, and invading T-cells after LPS injection in APOE4 mice. APOE4 mice also displayed greater and more prolonged increases of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) than APOE2 and APOE3 mice. We found that APOE4 mice had greater synaptic protein loss after LPS injection, as measured by three markers: PSD-95, drebin, and synaptophysin. In all assays, APOE knock-out mice responded similar to APOE4 mice, suggesting that the apoE4 protein may lack anti-inflammatory characteristics of apoE2 and apoE3. Together, these findings demonstrate that APOE4 predisposes to inflammation, which could contribute to its association with Alzheimer's disease and other disorders.
Estimation of CO2 Emissions from the Life Cycle of a Potable Water Pipeline Project

The accumulation of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere is considered a major contributor to climate change. Consequently, it is essential to control the emissions generated by human activities to protect the environment for future generations. Many countries have set their own emission control targets to achieve by the middle of the century. In this context, it is important to quantify emissions from human activity and consider alternatives in order to reduce these emissions. This paper demonstrates a model for estimating life-cycle emissions resulting from an underground potable water-line project that could be used as a managerial decision support tool. The life cycle of the water pipeline is divided into different phases for the analysis. Different methods are used to estimate the emissions in each phase of the life cycle. The results indicate the life-cycle emissions from a demonstration 152.4-m (500-ft), 200-mm (8-in.)-diameter water pipeline at a representative 1.22-m (4-ft) depth range between 1,463.2...
Sensitivity of joint approximate diagonalization in FD BSS

This paper investigates the sensitivity of the joint approximate diagonalization of a set of time varying cross-spectral matrices for blind separation of convolutive mixtures of speech signals. We introduce the multitaper method of cross-spectrum estimation. Based on the work of [1] factors affecting the sensitivity of the joint approximate diagonalization problem were investigated. We studied the effect of the number of matrices in the set, and observed that there exists a link between the uniqueness of the joint diagonalizer measured by modulus of uniqueness parameter and the estimation of demixing system parameters.
Instability of Dense Point Spectrum Under Finite Rank Perturbations

We prove that if A is a self-adjoint operator and R a non-negative finite rank operator whose range is cyclic for A, then for a generic (in the Baire sense) t in \(\)$, each eigenvalue of the operator \(\) has a neighborhood containing no other eigenvalues.
Metaphors of disease in the essays of Susan Sontag

(1996). Metaphors of disease in the essays of Susan Sontag. The European Legacy: Vol. 1, Fourth International Conference of the International Society for the Study of European Ideas, pp. 1558-1562.
The building block folding model and the kinetics of protein folding

Here we show that qualitatively, the building blocks folding model accounts for three-state versus the two-state protein folding. Additionally, it is consistent with the faster versus slower folding rates of the two-state proteins. Specifically, we illustrate that the building blocks size, their mode of associations in the native structure, the number of ways they can combinatorially assemble, their population times and the way they are split in the iterative, step-by-step structural dissection which yields the anatomy trees, explain a broad range of folding rates. We further show that proteins with similar general topologies may have different folding pathways, and hence different folding rates. On the other hand, the effect of mutations resembles that of changes in conditions, shifting the population times and hence the energy landscapes. Hence, together with the secondary structure type and the extent of local versus non-local interactions, a coherent, consistent rationale for folding kinetics can be outlined, in agreement with experimental results. Given the native structure of a protein, these guidelines enable a qualitative prediction of the folding kinetics. We further describe these in the context of the protein folding energy landscape. Quantitatively, in principle, the diffusion‐collision model for the building block association can be used. However, the folding rates of the building blocks and traps in their formation and association, need to be considered.
A Modelling and Optimisation Management Tool for large-scale supply chain networks

Supply Chains (SC) can be complex, dynamic and large-scale. They can make modelling and optimisation of SC difficult tasks. This paper describes a framework of a new Modelling and Optimisation Management Tool (MOMT) for large-scale supply chain networks. A graph-based method is used to automatically generate and update optimisation models for large-scale SC networks. Graph's nodes and arcs, that define the optimisation model's constraints and variables, are generated according to the SC requirements. MOMT increases accuracy and flexibility of modelling and information processing in large-scale SC models. The tool applications, advantages and disadvantages are described by real world examples from Motorola Inc. SC.
Obesity hinders ultrasound visualization of the subclavian vein: implications for central venous access

PurposeInternational policy statements from the US and the UK recommend real-time ultrasound guidance (USG) for placement of central venous catheters (CVCs) to improve patient safety. The evidence ...
Meta-analysis to determine the incidence of obstetric anal sphincter damage

Background: The reported incidence of anal sphincter injury after first (11·5–35·0 per cent) and subsequent (3·4–12·1 per cent) vaginal deliveries varies widely. In addition, the reported incidence of associated faecal incontinence ranges from zero to 68·2 per cent. The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis of reported incidences of postpartum anal sphincter defect diagnosed by endoanal ultrasonography (EAUS) and associated incidences of faecal incontinence. Methods: A Medline search yielded five studies with more than 100 subjects who underwent EAUS after childbirth for evaluation of anal sphincter disruption and who were questioned about symptoms of faecal incontinence, defined as any impairment in flatus and stool control but not including urgency of defaecation. A Bayesian meta-analysis was performed to produce one inference while accounting for potential heterogeneity among the five study populations. Results: Meta-analysis of 717 vaginal deliveries revealed a 26·9 per cent incidence of anal sphincter defect in primiparous women and an 8·5 per cent incidence of new sphincter defects in multiparous women. Overall, 29·7 per cent of anal sphincter defects were symptomatic. Some 3·4 per cent of women experienced postpartum faecal incontinence without an anal sphincter defect. In a Bayesian calculation, the probability of postpartum faecal incontinence due to a sphincter defect was 76·8–82·8 per cent. Conclusion: The incidence of occult anal sphincter disruption following vaginal delivery is much higher than commonly estimated. However, at least two-thirds of occult defects are asymptomatic postpartum. The probability of faecal incontinence associated with an anal sphincter defect was 76·8–82·8 per cent. Copyright © 2003 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Barraquer Experience with Intra-ocular Lenses: 20 Years Later

The Barraquer Clinic experience in lens implantation is briefly reviewed. About 500 lenses were implanted in a seven-year period, with excellent early results. Late disasters, particularly corneal dystrophy, required the removal of over 300 of these lenses. Recently an extensive analysis has been completed of 162 of the lenses removed. These included Ridley, Strampelli, Dannheim, Boberg-Ans, and Barraquer lenses. The examination of the lenses themselves, coupled with current knowledge of design requisites for intraocular lenses, permits a scientific analysis of these early implants and the problems associated with their use.