cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toxic deaths in the Second National Wilms' Tumor Study.

There were 122 deaths among 803 children registered, randomized, and followed in the second National Wilms' Tumor Study; 17 occurred in children apparently free of disease and were attributable to causes other than tumor progression. Seven deaths were attributed to infection during periods of drug-induced leukopenia; four were due to liver failure; and one each was attributable to radiation pneumonopathy, intestinal obstruction, renal failure, myocardial disease, and encephalopathy. The cause of one death was unexplained. Of particular concern were four (of 47) infants under one year of age with group I or II disease who had toxic deaths. Subsequent to these experiences the doses of all chemotherapeutic agents were reduced by 50% for infants under one year of age. No deaths from toxicity were observed thereafter in infants. An analysis of the therapeutic effect of this dose reduction showed three of 47 relapsed on full dose and five of 54 on half dose. The difference is not statistically significant. This...
Multiple Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Subdiagnostic Variants of Marfan Syndrome

Mutations in the FBN1 gene, which encodes fibrillin-1, cause Marfan syndrome (MFS) and have been associated with a wide range of milder, overlap phenotypes. The factors that modulate phenotypic severity, both between and within families, remain to be determined. This study examines the relationship between the FBN1 genotype and phenotype in families with extremely mild phenotypes and in those that show striking clinical variation among apparently affected individuals. In one family, clinically similar but etiologically distinct disorders are segregating independently. In another, somatic mosaicism for a mutant FBN1 allele is associated with subdiagnostic manifestations, whereas germ-line transmission of the identical mutation causes severe and rapidly progressive disease. A third family cosegregates mild mitral valve prolapse syndrome with a mutation in FBN1 that can be functionally distinguished from those associated with the classic MFS phenotype. These data have immediate relevance for the diagnostic and prognostic counseling of patients and their family members.
Lamivudine treatment in patients with decompensated hepatitis B cirrhosis: for whom and when?

HRONIC C HEPATITIS B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health problem that affects approximately 300 million individuals. In many parts of the world, hepatitis B-related liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are the leading causes of death (1,2). Several studies have demonstrated that the ChildTurcotte-Pugh (CTP) scoring system is reliable in the assessment of the severity of hepatic dysfunction and the prognosis of patients with cirrhosis (3,4). The 5year survival rate of patients with compensated HBV cirrhosis (CTP score of 5 or 6) is 80% compared to only 14% in patients with decompensated HBV cirrhosis (CTP score 87) (5,6). Clinical factors associated with a higher risk of developing cirrhosis and HCC include male sex, alcohol consumption, and co-infection with hepatitis C or D or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (7,s). Among patients with HBV cirrhosis, those with detectable HBV replication (hepatitis B e antigen+ [HBeAg] and/or HBV DNA+) have higher mortality than patients with low or undetectable HBV replication (9,lO). Therefore, it is reasonable to hypothesize that suppression or elimination of HBV replication in patients with advanced HBV cirrhosis may lead to clinical improvement. Interferon-a (IFN) and lamivudine treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B lead to a sustained loss of replicative markers in 2&40% of treated patients (11-13). Although IFN can benefit some patients with compensated HBV cirrhosis, response to IFN is poor in patients with decompensated HBV cirrhosis. In the latter patients, IFN may also precipitate hepatic failure during flares in aminotransferase (ALT) levels as well as life-threatening infections (14,15). Thus, IFN is not
Characterization of the Oxide Film Formed on Type 316 Stainless Steel in 288°C Water in Cyclic Normal and Hydrogen Water Chemistries

Abstract Characteristics of the oxide film formed on type 316 (UNS S31600) stainless steel (SS) in 288°C water under cyclic normal water chemistry (NWC) and hydrogen water chemistry (HWC) condition...
Psychiatric symptoms and acute care service utilization over the course of the year following medical-surgical ICU admission: a longitudinal investigation*.

Objective To determine if the presence of in-hospital substantial acute stress symptoms, as well as substantial depressive or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms at 3-months post-intensive care unit (ICU), are associated with increased acute care service utilization over the course of the year following medical-surgical ICU admission.
Influence of Transcontinental Arch on Cretaceous Listric-Normal Faulting, West Flank, Denver Basin: ABSTRACT

Seismic studies along the west flank of the Denver basin near Boulder and Greeley, Colorado illustrate the interrelationship between shallow listric-normal faulting in the Cretaceous and deeper basement-controlled faulting. Deeper fault systems, primarily associated with the Transcontinental arch, control the styles and causative mechanisms of listric-normal faulting that developed in the Cretaceous. Three major stratigraphic levels End_Page 1333------------------------------ of listric-normal faulting occur in the Boulder-Greeley area. These tectonic sensitive intervals are present in the following Cretaceous formations: Laramie-Fox Hills-upper Pierre, middle Pierre Hygiene zone, and the Niobrara-Carlile-Greenhorn. Documentation of the listric-normal fault style reveals a Wattenberg high, a horst block or positive feature of the greater Transcontinental arch, was active in the east Boulder-Greeley area during Cretaceous time. Paleotectonic events associated with the Wattenberg high are traced through analysis of the listric-normal fault systems that occur in the area. These styles are important to recognize because of their stratigraphic and structural influence on Cretaceous petroleum reservoir systems in the Denver basin. Similar styles of listric-norma faulting occur in the Cretaceous in many Rocky Mountain foreland basins. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1334------------
Sympathetic alterations after sodium restriction and short-term captopril administration

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of short-term captopril therapy during sodium restriction on several markers of the sympathetic nervous system, including plasma norepinephrine, neuropeptide Y, beta-adrenergic receptors and cortisol. Background. Recent studies suggest that the therapeutic effects of converting enzyme inhibitors involve not only the renin-angiotensin and prostaglandin systems but also the sympathetic system. Methods. Twelve hypertensive and 20 normotensive men were studied after 25-day hospital stays during which they consumed a 10-mEq sodium diet and received captopril (25 mg twice daily) or placebo in a double-blind crossover study. Results. Captopril decreased neuropeptide Y (p < 0.05) and angiotensin II (p < 0.01) and increased isoproterenol-stimulated cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) in lymphocytes (p < 0.03), plasma norepinephrine (p < 0.02), Cortisol (p < 0.05) and renin (p < 0.001) in both hypertensive and normotensive subjects. Hypertensive subjects had an increased beta-adrenergic receptor density (p < 0.02) and a greater decrease in diastolic blood pressure compared with normotensive subjects (p < 0.02). Conclusions. The results of this study suggest that the short-term therapeutic effects of captopril may involve concerted changes in key components of the sympathetic nervous system. These findings, such as decreased neuropeptide Y combined with increased norepinephrine and beta-adrenergic receptors, are compatible with the observation of increased cardiac output and decreased peripheral resistance after short-term angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition.
Sphingolipid metabolism. II. The biosynthesis of 3-keto-dihydrosphingosine by a partially-purified enzyme from rat brain.

A condensation reaction between serine and palmitoyl CoA by a partially-purified enzyme from rat brain is described. The product of the reaction, 3-keto-dihydrosphingosine is characterized by the conversion to several derivatives. The addition of EDTA to the incubation mixture results in inhibition of the conversion of serine to phospholipid, with the result that 3-keto-dihydro-sphingosine is the sole product.
Influence of diborane on blow-off limits of hydrocarbon flames

Abstract Blow-off studies of hydrocarbon-diborane flames on a bunsen burner show that diborane influences the properties of hydrocarbon flames in an unusual manner. V C x H y V ∗ C x H y , the ratio of hydrocarbon in these binary mixtures at a given jet velocity, v j , at blow-off to the hydrocarbon in a hydrocarbon flame at blow-off also at v j decreases as v j increases. In flames of binary hydrocarbon mixtures V C x H y V ∗ C x H y increases as v j increases. This unique behaviour of hydrocarbon-diborane mixtures is believed to result because diborane burns selectively. Consequently, the configuration of hydrocarbon-diborane flames would be different from those of hydrocarbon flames, and the two types are not directly comparable.
The evolution of the MVS operating system

The mechanization of computer operations and the extension of hardware functions are seen as the basic purposes of an operating system. An operating system must fulfill those purposes while providing stability and continuity to its users. Starting with the data processing environment of twenty-five years ago, this paper describes the forces that led to the development of the OS/360 system design and then traces the evolution which led to today's MVS system.
Pulsating arm veins.

1 was most informative. Usually, superior and inferior venae cavae have no valves and, therefore, a raised right atrial pressure is transmitted without any impediment to jugular vein and hepatic veins (having no venous values), which causes pulsation of jugular veins and the liver, respectively. Functional insufficiency of venous valves in the legs, whether of congenital origin or acquired after thrombophlebitis, causes varicosities. It is therefore understandable that in patients with tricuspid insufficiency pulsations of the veins of the legs have been reported early in patients with varicose veins. 2
Right Directions, Wrong Maps Understanding the Involvement of Low-SES African American Parents to Enlist Them as Partners in College Choice

Research extols the benefits of parent involvement in college choice, but low-SES African American parents are unable to match efforts of wealthier parents. This qualitative study found that in their communities the high school diploma was the normative credential for upward mobility. To this end, parents used narratives of struggle to motivate their children while utilizing maps that charted the course to high school completion. Findings suggest that in these families a high level of involvement towards high school completion exists, but that to shift expectations from high school to college completion requires unified and coordinated efforts from the Academy to pull parents into the college pipeline as early as middle school. The Academy must assume parents support their child's education and work with them to aggressively deliver critical college knowledge in the form of co-constructed maps that chart the course to college completion.
Relativistic self-dual Chern-Simons vortices with adjoint coupling

Abstract We derive a set of self-duality equations for the nonabelian theory of a relativistic charged scalar field coupled to a Chern-Simons gauge field via adjoint coupling and with a specific sixth-order potential. Solutions to the self-duality equations saturate the lower bound on the energy, given by the gauge invariant relativistic charge, and the solutions are static in the sense that tr (φφ † ) is time independent. In the abelian limit this theory reduces to the self-dual Chern-Simons vortex model of Jackiw and Weinberg, and in the nonrelativistic limit this theory reduces to the theory of nonrelativistic adjoint coupling Chern-Simons vortices whose solutions are known to be intimately related with integrable models in two dimensions.
Words vs. Deeds: What Really Matters?

This paper revisits the link between the nominal exchange rate regime and inflation, based on a sample of 145 emerging market and developing countries (EMDCs) over the period 1980-2010. We contend that, just as a de jure peg that is not backed by a de facto peg will have little value, de facto pegs that lack the corresponding de jure will likewise reap few of the low inflation benefits associated with pegging the exchange rate. To test our hypothesis, we exploit a novel dataset of both de jure and de facto exchange rate regime classifications. We find that pegged exchange rates are associated with significantly lower inflation in EMDCs than flexible exchange rates, and that this effect is much stronger for de facto pegs that are matched by de jure pegs than for those that are not. When it comes to anchoring expectations and delivering low inflation, therefore, both deeds and words matter.
Insubstance defeasances: Security Price Reactions and Motivations

Abstract This paper examines the bond and stock price reactions to the announcement of insubstance defeasances, and the motivations for the transaction. We find a reliably positive bond price reaction and a reliably negative stock price reaction. However, the bond price reaction is much less than would be predicted had the defeased bonds been made riskless. We find evidence suggesting that some firms defease to window-dress their earnings, some defease to avoid restrictions in bond covenants, and some defease as a use for excess cash on hand.
Is there a culture of youth violence

Culture Bound explores topics related to the impact of culture on psychiatric/mental health nursing practice, research, and education.
Simulations of the Ribosome Suggest Reversible Transitions and Parallel Pathways are Involved in the Large-Scale Functional Motions of tRNA During Translation

Through model building and large-scale computer simulations, we present a structural framework for understanding the molecular mechanisms of transfer RNA (tRNA) motion through the ribosome. In the context of tRNA accommodation (the process by which tRNA enters the ribosomal complex), these models predict that highly-specific functional motions are determined by the atomic details of the ribosome. Significant findings include 1) large-scale reversible fluctuations in tRNA position precede complete tRNA accommodation, 2) the accommodation process possesses multiple kinetic intermediates that may be related to ribosomal “proofreading” and 3) parallel pathways of accommodation may allow incoming tRNA molecules to be re-routed in response to changes in cellular conditions. In addition to illuminating the role of the ribosome's structure, this work also predicts that large changes in entropy in the individual tRNA molecules lead to energetically favorable accommodation pathways. The dynamics predicted in these models are validated through comparison with crystallographic data, explicit-solvent simulations and smFRET experiments.
Dynamic MIPS Rate Stabilization for Complex Processors

Modern microprocessor cores reach their high performance levels with the help of high clock rates, parallel and speculative execution of a large number of instructions, and vast cache hierarchies. Modern cores also have adaptive features to regulate power and temperature and avoid thermal emergencies. All of these features contribute to highly unpredictable execution times. In this article, we demonstrate that the execution time of in-order (IO), out-of-order (OoO), and OoO simultaneous multithreaded processors can be stable and predictable by stabilizing their mega instructions executed per second (MIPS) rate via a proportional, integral, and differential (PID) gain feedback controller and dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS). Processor cores in idle cycles are continuously consuming power, which is highly undesirable in systems, especially in real-time systems. In addition to meeting deadlines in real-time systems, our MIPS rate stabilization framework can be applied on top of it to reduce power and energy by avoiding idle cycles. If processors are equipped with MIPS rate stabilization, the execution time can be predicted. Because the MIPS rate remains steady, a stabilized processor meets deadlines on time in real-time systems or in systems with quality-of-service execution latency requirements at the lowest possible frequency. To demonstrate and evaluate this capability, we have selected a subset of the MiBench benchmarks with the widest execution rate variations. We stabilize their MIPS rate on a 1GHz Pentium III--like OoO single-thread microarchitecture, a 1.32GHz StrongARM-like IO microarchitecture, and the 1GHz OoO processor augmented with two-way and four-way simultaneous multithreading. Both IO and OoO cores can take advantage of the stabilization framework, but the energy per instruction of the stabilized OoO core is less because it runs at a lower frequency to meet the same deadlines. The MIPS rate stabilization of complex processors using a PID feedback control loop is a general technique applicable to environments in which lower power or energy coupled with steady, predictable performance are desirable, although we target more specifically real-time systems in this article.
Roles in Sociological Field Observations

Buford Junker has suggested four theoretically possible roles for sociologists conducting field work. These range from the complete participant at one extreme to the complete observer at the other. This chapter presents extensions of Junker's thinking growing out of systematic interviews with field workers whose experience had been cast in one or more of these patterns of researcher-subject relationship. Although basically similar to the complete observer role, the participant-as-observer role differs significantly in that both field worker and informant are aware that theirs is a field relationship. Simmel's distinction between intimate content and intimate form contains an implicit warning that the latter is inimical to field observation. The observer-as-participant role is used in studies involving one-visit interviews. It calls for relatively more formal observation than either informal observation or participation of any kind. The complete observer role entirely removes a field worker from social interaction with informants.
Mapping Historic Hookworm Disease Prevalence in the Southern Us, Comparing Percent Prevalence with Percent Soil Drainage Type Using GIS:

Mapping of Historic US Hookworm prevalence data from the Rockefeller Sanitary Commission (early 1900s) using current GIS (Geographic Information System) software (county shape files) illustrates the extremely high prevalence of hookworm disease (Uncariasis) in the Southeastern US at the time. Some counties in 7 states recorded 50% to 100% of the population with positive screens for hookworm in a monumental surveillance and treatment campaign. Narrative descriptions mentioned higher prevalence in “sand districts” vs. “clay districts”. In order to validate this description for historic data, further GIS databases (STATSGO) were used to classify and quantify the % acreage in Eastern North Carolina falling into moderately- to well-drained soil types. These were then mapped and compared with the historic prevalence data. Most severely infested counties had at least 50% moderately to well-drained soil. Further analysis on soil data for other states with “coastal plains” could provide more background information on Environmental conditions for hookworm prevalence and distribution in US history.
Global Reliability-Aware Power Management for Multiprocessor Real-Time Systems

Recently, the negative effect of the popular power management technique Dynamic Voltage and Frequency Scaling (DVFS) on the system reliability has been identified. As a result, various reliability-aware power management (RAPM) schemes have been studied for uniprocessor real-time systems. In this paper, we investigate global scheduling-based RAPM (G-RAPM) schemes for a set of frame-based real-time tasks running on a homogeneous multiprocessor system. An important dimension of the problem is how to select the appropriate subset of tasks for energy and reliability management (i.e., schedule a recovery for each selected task and scale down their executions). We show that making this decision optimally (i.e., the static G-RAPM problem) is NP-hard. Then we propose two efficient G-RAPM heuristics, which rely on local and global task selections, respectively. Moreover, to reclaim dynamic slack generated at runtime, we extend the slack-sharing based global dynamic power management scheme to the reliability-aware settings. The proposed schemes are evaluated through extensive simulations. The results show that our static G-RAPM heuristics can preserve system reliability while achieving significant energy savings (within 3% of an upper bound for most cases). Moreover, G-RAPM with global task selection provides better opportunities for dynamic slack reclamation and up to 15% more energy savings can be obtained at runtime compared to that of local task selection.
Self-consistent modeling of the influence of texture on thermal expansion in polycrystalline TATB

This paper presents a modeling approach for simulating the anisotropic thermal expansion of polycrystalline (1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene) TATB-based explosives which utilizes microstructural information including the porosity, crystal aspect ratio and processing-induced texture. A self-consistent homogenization procedure is used to relate the macroscopic thermoelastic response to the constitutive behavior of single-crystal TATB. The model includes a representation of the grain aspect ratio, porosity and, crystallographic texture attributed to the consolidation process. A quantitative model is proposed for describing the evolution of the preferred orientation of basal planes in TATB during consolidation and an algorithm constructed for developing a discrete representation of the associated orientation distribution function. Analytical and numerical solutions using this model are shown to produce textures consistent with previous measurements and characterization for isostatically and uniaxially ‘die-pressed’ specimens.Predicted thermal strain versus temperature results for textured specimens are shown to be in agreement with corresponding experimental measurements. Results from these simulations are used to identify qualitative trends. Key conclusions from this work include the following. Both porosity and grain aspect ratio have an influence on the thermal expansion of polycrystal TATB, considering realistic material variability. The preferred orientation of the single-crystal TATB [0 0 1] poles within a polycrystal gives rise to pronounced anisotropy of the macroscopic thermal expansion. The extent of this preferred orientation depends on the magnitude of the deformation and, consequently, is expected to vary spatially throughout manufactured components much like the porosity. The modeling approach presented here has utility toward bringing spatially variable microstructural features into macroscale system engineering models.
Political entrepreneurs, clientelism, and civil society: supply-side politics in Turkey

How do citizens in developing democracies launch political careers? Despite the large literature on electoral politics in developing countries, we know surprisingly little about how individuals become political candidates. This article examines an important mechanism of political recruitment in developing democracies: party-civil society organization (CSO) linkages. Existing theories treat CSOs as arenas of civic participation rather than as political agents in their own right, which leads scholars to overlook their impact on electoral competition. This article argues that the distinct resource portfolios of CSOs influence their relative impact on candidate selection, and consequently, local politics. CSOs that represent the material interests of their constituents, such as resource-rich business groups and vote-rich identity groups, have significant influence over candidate selection. Issue-oriented CSOs tend to have less impact. Party-CSO relations often facilitate clientelist linkages between parties a...
How much inequality in income is fair? A microeconomic game theoretic perspective

Abstract The increasing inequality in income and wealth in recent years, and the associated excessive pay packages of CEOs in the US and elsewhere, is of growing concern among policy makers as well as the common person. However, there seems to be no satisfactory answer, in conventional economic theories and models, to the fundamental questions of what kind of income distribution we ought to see, at least under ideal conditions, in a free market environment, and whether this distribution is fair. We propose a novel microeconomic game theoretic framework that addresses these questions and proves that the lognormal distribution is the fairest inequality of pay in an organization comprising of homogeneous agents, under ideal free market conditions at equilibrium. We also show that for a population of two different classes of agents, the equilibrium distribution is a combination of two different lognormal distributions where one of them, corresponding to the top ∼3–5% of the population, can be misidentified as a Pareto distribution. We compare our predictions with empirical data on global income inequality trends provided by Piketty and others. Our analysis suggests that the Scandinavian countries, and to a lesser extent Switzerland, Netherlands and Australia, have managed to get close to the ideal distribution for the bottom ∼99% of the population, while the US and UK remain less fair at the other extreme. Other European countries such as France and Germany, and Japan and Canada, are in the middle. Our theory also shows the deep and direct connection between potential game theory and statistical mechanics through entropy, which we identify as a measure of fairness in a distribution. This leads us to propose the fair market hypothesis, that the self-organizing dynamics of the ideal free market, i.e., Adam Smith’s “invisible hand”, not only promotes efficiency but also maximizes fairness under the given constraints.
Ribbed growth of graphite in Ni-C solutions containing boron.

WE report here on some effects due to boron in Ni-C melts. A number of interesting and hitherto unnoted features of graphite growth have been observed. The significance of these observations is that they demonstrate an important mechanism of a morphology change in graphite growing from solution. We show that the growth changes can be attributed to a concentration of boron in a boundary layer at the liquid–solid interface. Growth interfaces break down and morphology changes result. In particular, we have observed both scroll and spherulitic forms.
Proton ionizable crown compounds. 18. Comparison of alkali metal transport in a H2O-CH2Cl2-H2O liquid membrane system by four proton-ionizable macrocycles containing the dialkylhydrogenphosphate moiety

The macrocycle-mediated fluxes of alkali, alkaline earth, and several transition metal cations have been determined and compared in a H2O-CH2Cl2-H2O liquid membrane system using four water-insoluble macrocycles containing a dialkylhydrogenphosphate moiety. Transport of alkali metal cations by these ligands was greatest from a source phase pH = 12 or above into an acid receiving phase (pH = 1.5). Very low fluxes were observed for the transport of the alkaline earth cations and all transition metal ions studied except Ag+ and Pb2+ which were transported reasonably well by these new macrocycles.
Bioavailability of Dyphylline and Dyphylline-Guaifenesin Tablets in Humans

A six-way-crossover bioavailability study was conducted with twelve healthy male volunteers to evaluate the relative bioavailability of three tablet formulations containing dyphylline and three tablet formulations containing dyphylline–guaifenesin. Each subject was administered two tablets of each product with ≥3 d separating each dose. Blood samples were obtained just prior to each dose and at 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0, and 10.0 h following each dose. An HPLC method was used to assay dyphylline in the serum. The meantmax ranged from 0.6 to 1.0 h for the six products. The mean values for Cmax differed by 29%, and the AUC values differed by <8%. It was noted that the dyphylline–guaifenesin products exhibited a lower bioavailability than the products which only contained dyphylline. It was concluded that the three combination products were bioequivalent, as were the three dyphylline products.
Ketoprofen analysis in serum by capillary electrophoresis

A method for the quantification of ketoprofen, a new non-prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, in serum, by capillary zone electrophoresis for therapeutic monitoring and emergency toxicology is described. Serum is deproteinized with acetonitrile in the presence of an internal standard, to remove serum proteins and to induce sample stacking. The migration time was about 10 min. The assay was linear between 1-10 mg/l without any interferences. The method compared well to an HPLC assay. The HPLC afforded a better detection limit, but the CE was less expensive to operate. This method demonstrates that capillary electrophoresis is a simple and effective method for determination of ketoprofen as well as other drugs in human serum at levels close to 1 mg/l.
New fast high-resolution 3D imaging system with color structured light

This paper proposes a new fast and high-resolution color structured-light-based 3D imaging system. Unlike the expensive laser-based 3D imaging system, our hand-held system contains a commercial digital camera and two special designed projectors, the cost is much lower. Only two images are necessarily to reconstruct the 3D model with textures. One projector illuminates white light for texture imaging, the other projector projects special designed pattern for 3D information imaging. 384 vertical color bars (comprised of six primary colors) with special coding are projected onto the target, our proposed algorithm detects edges between any two successive color bars. From decoding algorithm the correct locations of edges are derived. Then the calibration algorithm finds accurate positions of edges in 3D space with triangulation. Color bars can be seriously distorted by colorful objects. Edges and colors of the object may cause edges of color bars to be broken segments. And some bars even show very different colors. A curve reconstruction algorithm is developed to reconstruct the complete edge from residual edge segments. And a robust color decoding algorithm can recover the correct color sequence even when many color bars are seriously distorted. The suggested approach has been implemented and the preliminary results show the resolution can compete with laser 3D imaging systems and -0.2~+0.2 mm accuracy is achieved.
Labour market segmentation and union wage gaps

Abstract There has been a great deal of research regard the effects of unions on union – non-union wage gap. Most of the studies regarding the impact of unions on wages have assumed that apart from the division between union and non-union workers, the labour market is relatively homogeneous. A number of economists, however, have argued that the labour market is segmented, implying that there are distinct labour markets and that some workers employment opportunities are concentrated in “bad jobs” while other workers employment opportunities are concentrated in “good jobs” which are rationed. This paper will explore whether the relative wage differential between union and non-union workers differs between the independent primary, subordinate primary and secondary labour markets. Labour market segments are defined using “job zones”. “Job zones” are distinct groups defined by the level of specific vocational preparation necessary for a particular occupation, allowing for the comparison of skill levels and tra...
CORRELATION OF THERMAL MODELS WITH MICROSTRUCTURAL EFFECTS IN CONTINUOUS MMC WIRE PRODUCTION

Abstract A recently developed continuous pressure infiltration process at Northeastern University has successfully produced completely infiltrated metal matrix composite (MMC) wires showing high mechanical strength. Thermal models are developed for two key regions (the entrance and middle orifices) of the high-pressure infiltration apparatus to identify heat transfer conditions that relate to process limitations and resulting MMC microstructure. For composites composed of 2024-aluminum alloy with alumina fiber reinforcement, experimental measurement of resulting grain size and solute segregation are compared for two processing velocities. At lower pulling velocity, the overall average matrix grain diameter (3.92 μm) is larger than that measured at higher pulling velocity (1.84 μm). Segregation is notably higher at lower pulling velocities. Predictions from thermal models correlate with microstructural observations, and are utilized to determine a maximum processing velocity for improved process control.
Purification and Properties of Succinyl‐CoA:3‐Oxo‐Acid CoA‐Transferase from Rat Brain

Rat brain succinyl-CoA:3-oxo-acid CoA-transferase (3-oxo-acid CoA-transferase, EC 2.8.3.5), the first committed enzyme in the oxidation of ketone bodies in mitochondria, was purified to apparent homogeneity as judged by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The enzyme has an apparent molecular weight of 90,000 as determined by G-150 Sephadex chromatography, and an apparent subunit molecular weight of 53,000 as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The specific activity of the purified enzyme was approximately 161 mumol/min/mg of protein. Initial velocity studies of the forward reaction (acetoacetate leads to acetoacetyl-CoA) are consistent with a "ping pong" mechanism. Substrate inhibition appears above approximately 1 mM acetoacetate. Apparent Km values were 70 microM for acetoacetate and 156 microM for succinyl-CoA (the forward reaction), and 59 microM for acetoacetyl-CoA and 25 mM for succinate (the reverse reaction). These values are markedly different from those reported for this enzyme from pig heart.
An Integrated Approach to the Business Cycle

Die Konjunkturschwankungen: Theoretische Gunglagen der Wirtschafts-politik, Bd. II. The Japanese Village in Transition. By A. F. Raper, T. Tsuchiyama, H. Passin and D. L. Sills. Public Finance and Fiscal Policy. By Richard W. Lindholm. Business and Government. By C. C. Rohlfing, E. W. Carter, B. W. West and J. G. Hervey. The Economy of Latin America. By Wendell C. Gordon. Price Theory. By Sidney Weintraub. Pricing in Planned Economy. By B. V. Krishnamurti. Pressure of Population and Economic Efficiency in India. By D. Ghosh. Studies in Genius. By Walter G.
A RELATION BETWEEN THE PER CENT ABSORPTION, THE MODULUS OF RUPTURE, AND THE ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY OF BUILDING BRICK

A relation between the per cent absorption and the electrical conductivity of building brick has been found which can be expressed by the empirical equation Likewise, a relation between the modulus of rupture and the conductivity is of the form The constants of the two equations may be evaluated to give the following equations: These relations, which were developed from tests on building brick, can be readily applied to other forms of structural silicates.
G-protein modulation of N-type calcium channel gating current in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK 293).

1. Voltage-dependent inhibition of N-type calcium currents by G-proteins contributes importantly to presynaptic inhibition. To examine the effect of G-proteins on key intermediary transitions leading to channel opening, we measured both gating and ionic currents arising from recombinant N-type channels (alpha 1B, beta 1b and alpha 2) expressed in transiently transfected human embryonic kidney cells (HEK 293). Recombinant expression of a homogeneous population of channels provided a favourable system for rigorous examination of the mechanisms underlying G-protein modulation. 2. During intracellular dialysis with GTP gamma S to activate G-proteins, ionic currents demonstrated classic features of voltage-dependent inhibition, i.e. strong depolarizing prepulses increased ionic currents and produced hyperpolarizing shifts in the voltage-dependent activation of ionic current. No such effects were observed with GDP beta S present to minimize G-protein activity. 3. Gating currents were clearly resolved after ionic current blockade with 0.1 mM free La3+, enabling this first report of gating charge translocation arising exclusively from N-type channels. G-proteins decreased the amplitude of gating currents and produced depolarizing shifts in the voltage-dependent activation of gating charge movement. However, the greatest effect was to induce a approximately 20 mV separation between the voltage-dependent activation of gating charge movement and ionic current. Strong depolarizing prepulses largely reversed these effects. These modulatory features provide telling clues about the kinetic steps affected by G-proteins because gating currents arise from the movement of voltage sensors that trigger channel activation. 4. The mechanistic implications of concomitant G-protein-mediated changes in gating and ionic currents are discussed. We argue that G-proteins act to inhibit both voltage-sensor movement and the transduction of voltage-sensor activation into channel opening.
Real-time implementation of structural and aero-optical effects for hypervelocity missiles

The Kinetic-kill-vehicle Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulation Facility (KHILS), located at Eglin AFB FL, has been involved in the development and ground testing of Ballistic Missile Defense Organization hit-to-kill interceptor concepts for 10 years. Work is ongoing to characterize the implement hardware-in-the-loop models for missile `environment' effects that are associated with high speed flight in general and endo-atmospheric flight in particular. Two critical areas of interest in endo-atmospheric simulation are: (1) effects on the line-of-sight due to divert thruster firings and the resulting structural vibration, and (2) the line-of-sight aero-optical environment which can be influenced by heated missile flowfields, coolant layers, and thruster fringes. The structural and aero-optical effects manifest themselves as image jitter, blurring, boresight shifts, and increased background radiance. At the KHILS facility, real-time closed-loop simulation techniques are being developed for structural and aero-optical effects presentation. These techniques include both software and hardware solutions. This paper describe the status of activities by describing the issues and the present KHILS solutions. The paper includes discussion of model interfaces with hardware-in-the-loop simulations, timing issues, and data transmittal bandwidth requirements. Image show the effects of structural and aero-optical disturbances on seeker focal plane energy distributions.
Inhibition of nitrogen mineralization in young humic fractions by anaerobic decomposition of rice crop residues

Field observations indicate a long-term decrease in crop uptake of N derived from soil organic matter under continuous production of irrigated lowland rice (Oryza sativa L.). Decreased availability has been associated with an accumulation of phenolic lignin residues in soil organic matter, which can chemically bind N. To evaluate the hypothesis that the decrease in N availability results primarily from anaerobic decomposition of incorporated crop residues, 15 N-labelled fertilizer was applied three times during one growing season in a field study that compared anaerobic decomposition with aerobic decomposition for annual rotations of rice (Oryza sativa L.)-rice and rice-maize (Zea mays L.). Contents of 15 N and total N during the growing season were measured in humic fractions and total soil organic matter. Results indicated an inhibition of N mineralization for the rice-rice rotation with anaerobic decomposition of crop residues, both for 15 N that was immobilized after application and for total N. The inhibition was strongest for 15 N that was applied at planting. It became more evident as the season progressed and reached significant levels during mid-season stages of plant growth when crop demand for N peaks. These results were clearest for a young, phenolic-rich humic fraction that was active in 15 N immobilization and remineralization. Comparable but less significant trends were evident for a more recalcitrant humic fraction and for soil organic matter. Trends in crop-N uptake associated the combination of rice-rice rotation and anaerobic decomposition with inhibited uptake of soil organic N but uninhibited uptake of fertilizer N. Increased aeration of rice soils through aerobic decomposition of crop residues or crop rotation is a promising management technique for improving soil N supply in lowland rice cropping.
Composition and morphology of partially selenized CuIn1-xGaxSe2 thin films prepared using diethylselenide (DESe) as selenium source

Abstract CuIn 1− x Ga x Se 2 (CIGS) thin films are being prepared by selenization of Cu–In–Ga precursors using diethylselenide, (C 2 H 5 ) 2 Se, (DESe) as selenium source in place of H 2 Se gas because of lower toxicity and ease of handling. Rough estimates indicate that selenization process using DESe would cost approximately same or slightly less compared to that using H 2 Se. Price of DESe per mole is approximately five times that of H 2 Se. However, partial pressure of DESe, which reflects source material consumption, is approximately three to four times less than that of H 2 Se, due to higher decomposition rate of DESe compared to that of H 2 Se. The actual DESe consumption would be four to ten times less compared to that of H 2 Se. A selenization set-up using DESe as selenium source has been designed, fabricated and installed at FSEC Photovoltaic Materials Lab. Initial characterization of CIGS thin films have been carried out using electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy, secondary ion mass spectroscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy. EPMA showed elemental ratios of film to be near stoichiometric composition CuInSe 2 with very low gallium content mainly because of tendency of gallium to diffuse towards back contact. XRD data shows formation of high crystalline CuInSe 2 phase consistent with the EPMA data.
Start-up and steady-state operation of a passive vapor-feed direct methanol fuel cell fed with pure methanol

Abstract A transient, two-dimensional, two-phase, multi-component, non-isothermal model is developed to investigate the start-up and steady-state characteristics of a fully passive, vapor-feed direct methanol fuel cell fed with pure methanol. The model considers the species, heat, charge and electrolyte-dissolved water transport in a single computational domain. During the steady-state operation, methanol loss due to evaporation from the cell to the ambient decreases with an increasing current density. Both the scale analysis and the predictions from the full numerical model reveal that the transient response time depends primarily on the cell load. At high current densities, mass consumption in the anode catalyst layer becomes dominant in the cell transient response time, whereas for the lower current densities, both the diffusive liquid transport in the anode and the mass consumption in the anode catalyst layers are predominant.
CO2-Forced Climate and Vegetation Instability During Late Paleozoic Deglaciation

The late Paleozoic deglaciation is the vegetated Earth9s only recorded icehouse-to-greenhouse transition, yet the climate dynamics remain enigmatic. By using the stable isotopic compositions of soil-formed minerals, fossil-plant matter, and shallow-water brachiopods, we estimated atmospheric partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) and tropical marine surface temperatures during this climate transition. Comparison to southern Gondwanan glacial records documents covariance between inferred shifts in pCO2, temperature, and ice volume consistent with greenhouse gas forcing of climate. Major restructuring of paleotropical flora in western Euramerica occurred in step with climate and pCO2 shifts, illustrating the biotic impact associated with past CO2-forced turnover to a permanent ice-free world.
Extracellular matrix and the mechanics of large artery development

The large, elastic arteries, as their name suggests, provide elastic distention and recoil during the cardiac cycle in vertebrate animals. The arteries are distended from the pressure of ejecting blood during the active contraction of the left ventricle (LV) during systole and recoil to their original dimensions during relaxation of the LV during diastole. The cyclic distension occurs with minimal energy loss, due to the elastic properties of one of the major structural extracellular matrix (ECM) components, elastin. The maximum distension is limited to prevent damage to the artery by another major ECM component, collagen. The mix of ECM components in the wall largely determines the passive mechanical behavior of the arteries and the subsequent load on the heart during systole. While much research has focused on initial artery formation, there has been less attention on the continuing development of the artery to produce the mature composite wall complete with endothelial cells (ECs), smooth muscle cells (SMCs), and the necessary mix of ECM components for proper cardiovascular function. This review focuses on the physiology of large artery development, including SMC differentiation and ECM production. The effects of hemodynamic forces and ECM deposition on the evolving arterial structure and function are discussed. Human diseases and mouse models with genetic mutations in ECM proteins that affect large artery development are summarized. A review of constitutive models and growth and remodeling theories is presented, along with future directions to improve understanding of ECM and the mechanics of large artery development.
Traveling-Wave Couplers for Longitudinal Beam-Type Amplifiers

The equations governing traveling-wave interaction between an electron beam and a slow-wave circuit are formulated in terms of amplitudes of circuit mode and slow and fast space charge modes. The resulting equations are solved to find expressions for the matrix which relates the mode amplitudes at the output of the traveling-wave coupler to the mode amplitudes at the input. The properties of this matrix are discussed and numerical values given for Kompfner Dip. Matrices for velocity jumps and drift regions are also given, and the characteristics of couplers which are preceded by or followed by a drift region and velocity jump are discussed. It is shown that necessary and sufficient conditions for the removal of beam noise from the fast space-charge wave by any lossless coupler are that, for a circuit input, there be no circuit output (M11 = 0) and no slow space-charge wave output (M21 = 0). These results are then applied to the design of fast space-charge wave couplers for longitudinal beam type parametric amplifiers.
A quality index for reference mass spectra

A numerical rating for evaluating the quality of reference mass spectra used for retrieval and interpretive applications is proposed. The overall quality index is the product of seven quality factors: (1) source of the spectrum; (2) ionization conditions; (3) higher molecular weight impurities; (4) illogical neutral losses; (5) isotopic abundance accuracy; (6) number of peaks; and (7) lower mass limit of peaks. For quality factor 6 the number of peaks of abundances ≥1% was found to correspond to 15 more than the number of atoms in the molecule with a correlation coefficient of 0.482. The program has been found useful in preparing a data base of 41429 mass spectra; for the majority of spectra judged to be unsatisfactory by the program this arose from a low quality factor 6 value (too few peaks).