cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cooling Design and Analysis of the QPS Modular Coil Winding Packs

A study has been performed on several modular coil coiling schemes for the Quasi-Poloidal Stellarator (QPS). The modular coils provide the primary magnetic field within QPS and consist of flexible cable conductor wound on a cast and machined winding form and vacuum impregnated with cyanide ester resin. Twenty coils and associated winding forms are connected at assembly into a toroidal shell structure. Each winding is encapsulated in an outer layer of groundwrap insulation and ultimately by a thin stainless steel vacuum cover. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the cooling response of the coils after a 1-T pulse has been imposed on the conductor for 1.5 s. The first case examines the use of exterior cooling via tubes outside the winding pack which uses copper cladding as the primary medium for heat transfer. The finite element program ANSYS is used to model a cross section of the modular coil bundle and all of its components (insulation, copper conductor, and the stainless steel support structure and shell). Thermal loading from the pulse is modeled as temperature-dependent heat generation, resulting in a 40 C rise in conductor temperature after the pulse. A primary focus of the model is to determine the location and specific number of cooling tubes required to adequately cool the modular coil. Geometric considerations due to available space, installation and ease of assembly are considered when placing the tubes in the theoretical model. The second concept explored is an internally cooled modular coil concept where the coolant flows through each copper conductor individually through a small copper tube that is built into the conductor during manufacturing. The internally cooled concept undoubtedly has an advantage in terms of heat transport capacity but it may be geometrically challenging to wind the stiffer conductor around the tight bends of the QPS coil trajectories. Fluid flow calculations are used to determine the diameter of the tube and the time and flow required to cool the conductor. Additionally, a Fortran routine is used to plot the speed of the cooling wave along the length of the conductor as it cools after the pulse
Imaging of Cerebritis, Encephalitis, and Brain Abscess

Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of brain abscess, pyogenic infection, and encephalitis. The role of CT and MRI in the diagnosis and management of pyogenic brain abscess and its complications is reviewed. The imaging appearances of several common and select uncommon infectious encephalitides are reviewed. Common causes of encephalitis in immunocompromised patients, and their imaging appearances, are also discussed. When combined with CSF, serologic studies and patient history, imaging findings can suggest the cause of encephalitis.
Electrophysiological significance of rapid atrial pacing as a test of atrioventricular conduction

Although rapid atrial pacing is frequently used as a test of atrioventricular conduction, no studies have compared this method with other conduction parameters. The purpose of this study was to compare the results of rapid atrial pacing with refractory period measurements utilizing the extrastimulus technique. Determination of the refractory periods of the atrium, A-V node, and His-Purkinje system were accomplished in 41 patients undergoing diagnostic cardiac catheterization, and the results compared with rapid atrial pacing to the point at which A-V Wenckebach occurred (WP). The results showed significant correlation (P less than 0.01) between the WP and functional refractory period (FRP) of the A-V node (r=0.89, FRP=865-2.6 WP), and significant correlation between the WP and the effective refractory period (ERP) of the total A-V conducting system(r=0.81, ERP=729-2.6 WP). The relationship between WP and the refractory periods also allowed prediction of the occurrence of physiological His-Purkinje block during introduction of premature atrial contractions and the site of the effective refractory period of the total A-V conducting system. This study establishes a close relationship between these methods and confirms the usefulness of rapid atrial pacing as a reliable test of A-V conduction in man.
On measuring the cost of children

Abstract The primary objectives of this paper are to give a precise definition of the costs of a child and to compare various approaches in the literature to estimating these costs. Two alternative approaches are discussed at length. The first goes back to the work of Engel (1895) on household consumption patterns. The second is based on methods to directly estimate Individual Welfare Functions of Income (van Praag, 1968). Both approaches produce well-defined measures of levels of well-being. These measures are adopted to define the cost of a child. We will show that both approaches can be viewed as stemming from the same general methodological framework. A short discussion of methodologies that do not fit this framework is included. It is concluded that there exists in the literature no consensus on the exact value of the cost of a child. The estimates for a first child range from 0–42% of a household's yearly income. However, the century-long development of this topic in the economic literature has produced a precise definition of the cost of a child that—once adopted—will enable researchers to improve their estimates and narrow down this disappointingly wide range.
Role of U.S. military research programs in the development of U.S.-licensed vaccines for naturally occurring infectious diseases

U.S. military physicians and researchers have collaborated in the development of eight U.S.-licensed vaccines since 1934, when product efficacy requirements were added to product safety requirements mandated in 1902. These vaccines include influenza (1945), rubella (1969), adenovirus types 4 and 7 (1980), meningococcus A, C, Y, W-135 (1981), hepatitis B (1981), oral typhoid (1989), Japanese encephalitis (1992), and hepatitis A (1995). Current efforts include new adenovirus and Japanese encephalitis vaccines, and vaccines to prevent dengue, diarrhea due to enterotoxigenic E. coli, Campylobacter, and Shigella, malaria, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, scrub typhus, meningococcus type B, and HIV infection. All vaccines currently administered to U.S. military forces must be licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Coal desulfurization with aqueous chlorine

A laboratory study on the desulfurization of Sewickley seam coal with aqueous chlorine has been conducted. The coal sample was leached in an acid solution in which chlorine gas was bubbled. The parametric experimental conditions were temperature (25 ‡C, 40 ‡C, and 55 ‡C), stirring speed (230, 360, and 500 rpm), and particle size (35 to 48, 65 to 100, and 150 to 200 mesh). It has been shown that aqueous chlorine can leach more than 90 pct of coal pyrite and approximately 40 pct of organic sulfur at room temperature. The leaching rates are considered to be controlled by pore diffusion mechanisms. The leaching rates decrease slightly as the tem-perature increases. The solubility of chlorine gas that decreases as the temperature increases may be the reason for this trend. A pressurized leaching system is proposed for a future study to increase the concentration of aqueous chlorine and thus remove the sulfur more effectively.
Manufacture of Microcantilever Sensors

Mechanical micro machining is an emerging technology with many potential benefits and equally great challenges. The push to develop processes and tools capable of micro scale fabrication is a result of the widespread drive to reduce part and feature size. One important factor that contributes to the ability to machine at the microscale level is the overall size of the machine tool due to the effects of thermal, static, and dynamic stabilities. This paper explores the technical feasibility of miniaturized machine tools capable of fabricating features and parts on the micro scale in terms of depth of cut and part form accuracy. It develops a machine tool and examines its capabilities through benchmarking tests and the making of precision dies for the injection molding of microcantilever parts. The design and configuration of a miniaturized vertical machining center of overall dimension less than 300 mm on a side is presented and the component specifications discussed. The six axis machine has linear positioning resolution of 4 nm by 10 nm by 10 nm, with accuracy on the order of 0.3 μm, in the height, feed, and cross feed directions. The work volume as defined by the ranges of axes travel are 4 mm by 25 mm by 25 mm in the height, feed, and cross feed and 20 degrees in the rotational space. To quantify the performance capability of the miniaturized machine tool as a system, a series of evaluation tests were implemented based on linear and arch trajectories over a range of feed speed and depth of cut conditions. Test results suggest that micro level form accuracy and sub-micron level finish are generally achievable for parts with moderate curvature and gradient in the geometry under selected machining parameters and conditions. An injection mold was made of steel with this machine and plastic microcantilevers fabricated. Plastic microcantilevers are appropriate for sensing applications such as surface probe microscopy. The microcantilevers, made from polystyrene, were 464 to 755 μm long, 130 μm wide and only 6–9 μm thick. They showed very good uniformity, reproducibility, and appropriate mechanical response for use as sensors in surface force microscopy.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Postpalatoplasty Eustachian tube function in young children with cleft palate.

Objective: To characterize Eustachian tube function using the forced response test in young children with cleft palate with or without cleft lip after palatoplasty with tympanostomy tubes inserted prepalatoplasty and compare these results with those of a 1986 study that evaluated a similar population using identical methods. Setting: Outpatient research clinic. Patients/Participants: A total of 34 children with cleft palate were tested at an average age of 18.6 ± 4.0 months. Main Outcome Measures: Passive and active measures for the forced response test. Results: Of the sample, 13 ears could not be tested, and tests on 24 ears were incomplete. The forced response test showed that the passive Eustachian tube function parameters were similar to those of normal adults and children. The percentage of ears that showed tubal dilation with swallowing was 60%. The active resistance and dilatory efficiency were similar to those of a normal adult population. Conclusions: A 1986 study of Eustachian tube function in ...
Experimental observation of the ion‐ion beam instability in a cylindrical geometry

The ion‐ion beam instability is investigated in a cylindrical geometry. In the presence of a cylindrically symmetric ion beam a coherent ion‐ion beam instability is observed for a well‐defined range of beam velocity. This instability gives rise to cylindrical standing waves whose frequency depends upon beam velocity. The beam distribution function is measured to be a ring in velocity space. The dispersion relation appropriate for the cylindrical standing waves is solved numerically and is shown to be in good agreement with the experimentally observed instability.
Failure to replicate the Scott et al. finding of reversed ear dominance in the Native American Navajo.

The apparent universality of left hemisphere language specialization in neurologically normal right-handed persons has been questioned by SCOTT et al. (Neuropsychologia 17, 89–92, 1979). They found that Native American Navajos had a significant left ear advantage on the dichotic C-V task, while Anglo Ss had a right ear advantage. We attempted to replicate this finding with essentially the same task, more Ss and four times as many trials. Results showed a very clear right ear advantage in Navajos. While we had previously questioned the Scott et al. conclusion on the basis of visual laterality test findings, present results directly contradict those of Scott et al.
Space, R & D , and the FY '81 mission queue

The fiscal year 1981 budget for NASA is part of an overall trend to increase R & D spending. The R & D budget for defense has had a major increase of well over 15% for F Y 1981. T h i s includes almost half of the $35 billion slated for R & D in the federal budget. The NSF R & D budget is increasing to above $1 billion, as the basic research programs are increasing by more than 15%. NASA's budget overall will be increased by 8%. This is higher than the increases for other agencies, which are set at approximately 6% (some agencies will not have a budget increase).
A Promising Thumb Basal Joint Hemiarthroplasty for Treatment of Trapeziometacarpal Osteoarthritis

Background Trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis is a painful, disabling condition that primarily affects women who are postmenopausal. Arthroplasty has been performed to treat this condition; however, subluxation has been a problem with all previous implants. We report the results of hemiarthroplasty using a prosthesis designed to address the problems associated with previous implants.
Preoperative prediction of postoperative visual acuity in patients with cataracts: a quantitative review.

Many tests of visual function have been proposed as means of preoperatively evaluating cataract patients' surgical outcomes. It is impractical to compare all of these tests simultaneously on the same group of patients. Quantitative reviews apply quantitative methods to comparisons across studies. We compared the results of 52 reports in which cataract patients' postoperative acuity was predicted by means of visually evoked potential, laser interferometry, or projection tests (potential acuity meters-pinhole). The results of each study were summarized in a 2 × 2 contingency table. Summary statistics were compared by means of analysis of variance and post hoc tests. Despite difficulties in metaanalysis, we found the visually evoked potential a better predictor with dense opacities. We recommend standardization in a quest for more precise predictions of postoperative visual acuity.
Insight from uncertainty: bootstrap-derived diffusion metrics differentially predict memory function among older adults

Diffusion tensor imaging suffers from an intrinsic low signal-to-noise ratio. Bootstrap algorithms have been introduced to provide a non-parametric method to estimate the uncertainty of the measured diffusion parameters. To quantify the variability of the principal diffusion direction, bootstrap-derived metrics such as the cone of uncertainty have been proposed. However, bootstrap-derived metrics are not independent of the underlying diffusion profile. A higher mean diffusivity causes a smaller signal-to-noise ratio and, thus, increases the measurement uncertainty. Moreover, the goodness of the tensor model, which relies strongly on the complexity of the underlying diffusion profile, influences bootstrap-derived metrics as well. The presented simulations clearly depict the cone of uncertainty as a function of the underlying diffusion profile. Since the relationship of the cone of uncertainty and common diffusion parameters, such as the mean diffusivity and the fractional anisotropy, is not linear, the cone of uncertainty has a different sensitivity. In vivo analysis of the fornix reveals the cone of uncertainty to be a predictor of memory function among older adults. No significant correlation occurs with the common diffusion parameters. The present work not only demonstrates the cone of uncertainty as a function of the actual diffusion profile, but also discloses the cone of uncertainty as a sensitive predictor of memory function. Future studies should incorporate bootstrap-derived metrics to provide more comprehensive analysis.
International perceptions across the sea: Patterns in Japanese young adults

Abstract The international perceptions of Japanese young adults were explored in 172 professional education students in two Tokyo colleges. They classified 30 nations according to their “current” and “future” affinity to Japan. Little difference was detected in the Q-sorts between institutions arid sexes, while the “current” and “future” sorts correlated .96 with each other. In cluster analyses, many two-nation units (e.g., Czechoslovakia-Yugoslavia) were found to be the building blocks for the overall pattern. The total configuration consisted of three broad groups: mostly Western European nations, problematical nations (China, Russia, Israel, Egypt, etc.), and remote and neutral nations. Structurally, the results were similar to those for American young adults, but the contents were different. The notion of cultural metastereotypes thus received tentative support.
Recent Advances in RNA Interference Therapeutics for CNS Diseases

Over the last decade, RNA interference technology has shown therapeutic promise in rodent models of dominantly inherited brain diseases, including those caused by polyglutamine repeat expansions in the coding region of the affected gene. For some of these diseases, proof-of concept studies in model organisms have transitioned to safety testing in larger animal models, such as the nonhuman primate. Here, we review recent progress on RNA interference-based therapies in various model systems. We also highlight outstanding questions or concerns that have emerged as a result of an improved (and ever advancing) understanding of the technologies employed.
Teenagers and artificial tanning.

Recently, many states have attempted to pass laws to limit teenagers' access to tanning facilities. During the 2007 legislative session alone, 16 states introduced bills on this topic and, as of December 2007, 4 became law.1 At least 28 states and 4 counties regulate tanning facilities for minors.1 Mounting evidence about the carcinogenicity of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from tanning devices has led to this wave of legislation. Artificial tanning, primarily through of the use of tanning beds in commercial tanning salons, began in the 1970s. The “tanning industry” is booming, with ∼$5 billion of annual revenue, up from $1 billion in 1992.2 Twenty-eight million visits are made to the 50000 tanning facilities in the United States each year.2 Artificial tanning is popular with teenagers. In a national sample of non-Hispanic white teenagers, 24% of respondents between the ages of 13 and 19 reported using a tanning facility at least once in their lives; this represented 2.9 million teenagers.3 In another national survey, 10% of youth between the ages of 11 and 18 reported using indoor tanning sunlamps in the previous year.4 Teenagers are specifically targeted by the tanning industry through methods such as advertisements placed in high school newspapers. Advertisements commonly offer coupons for discounts, including “unlimited tanning” offers.5 Artificial tanning is especially popular with girls and women: of 1 million people who use tanning salons every day, 70% are females between the ages of 16 and 49. Twenty-eight percent of US teenage girls interviewed in 1996 have used tanning salons 3 or more times during their lives.3 Artificial tanning among white girls rises rapidly with age, more than doubling from ages 14 to 15 (7% to 15%), and doubling again at age 17 (35%).6 Of female tanning bed users, at … Address correspondence to Sophie J. Balk MD, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1621 Eastchester Road, Bronx, NY 10461. E-mail: sbalk{at}montefiore.org
‘Binge’ cocaine administration induces a sustained increase of prodynorphin mRNA in rat caudate-putamen

Other workers have established that cocaine injections increase the levels of dynorphin peptides in the caudate putamen and substantia nigra of the rat brain. Using a quantitative solution hybridization protection assay for mRNA, we detected a significant increase in the concentration of prodynorphin mRNA in caudate putamen extracts of rats injected with cocaine following a 'binge' administration pattern designed to mimic human cocaine abuse. Increased prodynorphin mRNA was observed at the earliest time-point studied (50 h) and the lowest dose (10 mg/kg/day) of cocaine tested and persisted through the 14 day period studied. No prodynorphin mRNA was detected in the substantia nigra.
Iron absorption from infant foods.

ABSTRACT: To determine the bioavailability of iron from iron-fortified infant foods, we have determined erythrocyte incorporation of the stable isotope, 58Fe, after feeding the following foods extrinsically labeled with 58Fe: 1) rice cereal with apples and bananas (“cereal-fruit product”), 2) Mead Johnson Enriched Baby Food (MJEBF), a vitamin, mineral, and protein-enriched rice cereal, 3) vegetables and beef (“vegetable-beef product”), 4) grapejuice, and 5) MJEBF. Foods 1-4 were fortified with ferrous sulfate, and food 5 was fortified with ferrous fumarate. Blood was obtained at ages 140, 168, and 196 d of age, and the test meal was fed under standardized conditions at 154 d of age. Erythrocyte incorporation of the 58Fe label was determined from the increase in the mass isotope ratio, 58Fe/57Fe, from the baseline value (at 140 d of age) to the follow-up values. The mass isotope ratio was determined by inductively coupled mass spectrometry. Geometric mean total iron incorporation into erythrocytes from the test meal of MJEBF fortified with ferrous sulfate (food 2) was 0.05 mg, and from the vegetable-beef product test meal (food 3) was 0.08 mg. The low value for MJEBF is presumably explained by the low level of iron fortification. The low value for the vegetable-beef product may reflect the presence of inhibitors of iron absorption. Geometric mean erythrocyte incorporations of iron from the test meals with foods 1, 4 and 5 were 0.15, 0.14, and 0.18 mg, respectively. These erythrocyte incorporation values are 20 to 26% of the estimated 0.7 mg requirement for absorbed iron, and therefore seem nutritionally important.
Precautionary Demand and Liquidity in Payment Systems

In large-value real-time gross settlement payment systems, banks rely heavily on incoming funds to finance outgoing payments. Such reliance necessitates a high degree of coordination and synchronization. We construct a model of a payment system calibrated for the U.S. Fedwire system and examine the impact of realistic disruptions motivated by the recent financial crisis. In such settings, individually cautious behavior can have a significant and detrimental impact on the overall functioning of the payment system through a multiplier effect. Our results quantify the mutually reinforcing nature of greater caution, and allow comparative statics analysis of shifts in key parameters.
ThiC Is an [Fe-S] Cluster Protein That Requires AdoMet To Generate the 4-Amino-5-hydroxymethyl-2-methylpyrimidine Moiety in Thiamin Synthesis

Thiamin pyrophosphate is a required cofactor in all organisms. The biosynthesis of thiamin requires the independently synthesized 4-amino-5-hydroxymethyl-2-methylpyrimidine pyrophosphate (HMP-PP) and 5-hydroxyethyl-4-methylthiazole phosphate (THZ-P) moieties. In bacteria, the pyrimidine moiety is derived from 5-aminoimidazole ribotide (AIR), and ThiC is the only gene product known to be required for this conversion in vivo. We report here the purification and characterization of the ThiC protein from Salmonella enterica. The data showed this protein generated HMP when AIR, S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet), and an appropriate reducing agent were present. It is further shown that ThiC carries an oxygen labile [Fe-S] cluster essential for this activity.
The Moment of Inertia of Common Objects: A Prediction Equation and Its Relevance to Design

The "feel" of a manipulated object depends upon several factors including its weight and moment of inertia. Although weight has received considerable investigation, less attention has been paid to moment of inertia. This paper summarizes the present state of knowledge regarding the moment of inertia of hand held objects. In addition, three simple models for estimating an object's moment of inertia are compared. A linear regression model was found superior to simple geometric models for 80 common objects with carefully measured moments of inertia. This information is useful in product design, remote manipulation and robotics. Language: en
Measurement of phase changes in a microscopic lithium iodide particle levitated in water vapor

Abstract Single, micron-size lithium iodide particles are suspended electrodynamically in vacuum in a quadrupole ion trap. Solid-solid, solid-liquid, and liquid-solid phase changes are produced by varying the pressure of water vapor admitted. Thermodynamic and nucleation theories are used to analyze the results.
Utilizing energy opportunity windows and energy profit bottlenecks to reduce energy consumption per part for a serial production line

Understanding the energy dynamics of a manufacturing system is pertinent in minimizing energy usage on the production line. Utilizing this analysis of the complex system dynamics will identify inefficiencies on the production line. This paper expands upon previous research to incorporate the warmup time of each machine in the analysis of the dynamic system. This will help establish an energy baseline, which is the least amount of energy needed to create a certain number of parts. This leads to the identification of the energy profit bottleneck, which is the machine that causes the biggest loss in profit on the line. The energy profit bottleneck is proven both analytically and numerically in Simulink/MATLAB. The energy opportunity window is utilized to minimize the overall energy consumption on the production line without negatively impacting the production count.
Precision coordination and motion control of multiple systems via iterative learning control

In this paper, we focus on improving the trajectory tracking and formation coordination performance of multiple systems through the use of iterative learning control. A Norm Optimal framework is used to design optimal learning filters based on varying design objectives. The general norm optimal framework is reformatted to enable separate weighting on individual system trajectory tracking, coupled system trajectory tracking, and coordinated system formation or shape tracking. A general approach for designing a norm optimal learning controller for this coupled system is included. The novel structure of the weighting matrices used in this approach enables one to focus on individual design objectives (e.g. trajectory tracking, formation tracking) and formation approaches (e.g. leader reference, formation center, and neighbor reference tracking) that affect the overall performance of the coupled systems within the same framework. The capabilities of the proposed controller are validated through simulation results.
Role of the Surfactant Polar Head Structure in Protein−Surfactant Complexation: Zein Protein Solubilization by SDS and by SDS/C12En Surfactant Solutions

The ability of anionic surfactants, such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), to solubilize the water-insoluble protein zein in aqueous solution, referred to as the zein solubilization test, has been utilized in the past to rank the skin irritation potential and protein denaturation potential of these surfactants. With this in mind, the effects of the concentrations of SDS and of zein on zein solubilization were investigated. The behavior of the SDS−zein solutions was analyzed using a mass-balance approach that suggests that the solubilization of the zein protein induced by SDS occurs at the onset of cooperative binding of SDS to the zein protein. On the basis of the relative amounts of SDS bound to solid (undissolved) and dissolved zein, it is proposed that zein solubilization occurs when SDS denatures the solid zein protein. The effect of adding the nonionic surfactants dodecyl n(ethylene oxide) (C12En) (n = 4, 6, and 8) to SDS solutions on the interactions between SDS and zein was also investigated. The ad...
Helicobacter pylori Perturbs Iron Trafficking in the Epithelium to Grow on the Cell Surface

Helicobacter pylori (Hp) injects the CagA effector protein into host epithelial cells and induces growth factor-like signaling, perturbs cell-cell junctions, and alters host cell polarity. This enables Hp to grow as microcolonies adhered to the host cell surface even in conditions that do not support growth of free-swimming bacteria. We hypothesized that CagA alters host cell physiology to allow Hp to obtain specific nutrients from or across the epithelial barrier. Using a polarized epithelium model system, we find that isogenic ΔcagA mutants are defective in cell surface microcolony formation, but exogenous addition of iron to the apical medium partially rescues this defect, suggesting that one of CagA's effects on host cells is to facilitate iron acquisition from the host. Hp adhered to the apical epithelial surface increase basolateral uptake of transferrin and induce its transcytosis in a CagA-dependent manner. Both CagA and VacA contribute to the perturbation of transferrin recycling, since VacA is involved in apical mislocalization of the transferrin receptor to sites of bacterial attachment. To determine if the transferrin recycling pathway is involved in Hp colonization of the cell surface, we silenced transferrin receptor expression during infection. This resulted in a reduced ability of Hp to colonize the polarized epithelium. To test whether CagA is important in promoting iron acquisition in vivo, we compared colonization of Hp in iron-replete vs. iron-deficient Mongolian gerbils. While wild type Hp and ΔcagA mutants colonized iron-replete gerbils at similar levels, ΔcagA mutants are markedly impaired in colonizing iron-deficient gerbils. Our study indicates that CagA and VacA act in concert to usurp the polarized process of host cell iron uptake, allowing Hp to use the cell surface as a replicative niche.
Ultrafine coal classification using 150 mm gMax cyclone circuits

Abstract A two-stage classification circuit using 150 mm diameter gMax cyclones was installed and evaluated in a coal preparation plant in an effort to achieve a clean coal product without the use of froth flotation. Particle size separations of around 37 μm were achieved while limiting ultrafine bypass to less than 10% in the circuit underflow stream. As a result, approximately 81% of the ash-bearing material in the circuit feed was rejected to the circuit overflow stream. The feed ash content was reduced from around 50% to values in the range of 22–30% in the circuit underflow stream with a mass recovery of about 30%. Further reductions in the coarse product ash content were limited due to the particle density effect and the remaining presence of a significant quantity of high-ash slime material in the coarse product. The typical D 50 for the coal particles was 40 μm while the estimated value for mineral matter was 17 μm. Based on the findings of the study, the use of classification to recover a low-ash, coarse fraction in the feed of a fine coal circuit is limited by the density effect regardless of the ability to eliminate ultrafine bypass.
Effects of Group Selection for Productivity and Longevity on Blood Concentrations of Serotonin, Catecholamines, and Corticosterone of Laying Hens

Abstract Selection of a line of White Leghorn chickens for high group productivity and longevity resulted in reducing cannibalism and flightiness in multiple-hen cages. Improvements in survival might have been due to changes of physiological homeostasis. The objective of the present study was to test the hypothesis that genetic selection for high (HGPS) and low (LGPS) group productivity and survivability also altered regulation of neuroendocrine homeostasis. Hens were randomly assigned to individual cages at 17 wk of age. At 21 wk of age, blood concentrations of dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and serotonin were measured using HPLC assay. Blood concentrations of corticosterone were measured using radioimmunoassay. The LGPS hens had greater blood concentrations of dopamine and epinephrine than the HGPS hens (P
Distinguishing among disruptive behaviors to help predict high school graduation: Does gender matter?☆

This study examined unique predictive associations of aggressive and hyperactive-inattentive behaviors in elementary school with high school graduation. The current study also investigated whether these associations were moderated by gender. At Time 1, 745 children in the 3rd through 5th grades completed peer ratings on their classmates' disruptive behaviors. At Time 2, school records were reviewed to determine whether students graduated within four years of entering high school. RESULTS showed that gender and hyperactivity-inattention are uniquely associated with high school graduation, but childhood aggression is not. RESULTS also indicated that gender moderated associations between hyperactivity-inattention and graduation. Among boys, hyperactive-inattentive behaviors were not significantly associated with graduation, above and beyond aggression. In contrast, among girls, hyperactive-inattentive behaviors in childhood were significantly associated with graduation even after controlling for aggression. These findings suggest that in middle childhood, hyperactive-inattentive behaviors may be a more meaningful predictor of high school graduation than other forms of early disruptive behavior (e.g., aggression), especially for girls. Such findings could have significant implications for prevention and intervention programs designed to target children at risk for dropping out of school. Language: en
Laparoscopic reconstructive options for obstruction in children with duplex renal anomalies.

OBJECTIVE To present our initial experience of laparoscopic reconstructive surgery in children with upper urinary tract obstruction associated with duplex anomalies, as although there is much information on ablative procedures such as laparoscopic heminephrectomy, there is little available about minimally invasive reconstructive options for duplex renal anomalies in children. PATIENTS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed four consecutive patients (aged 6-11 years) with duplex anomalies and laparoscopic reconstruction for obstructed, dilated segments treated at our institution. The port placement and surgical exposure were analogous to that for transperitoneal laparoscopic pyeloplasty. A JJ stent was placed retrogradely into the ureter immediately before each procedure. The procedures performed were pyelo-ureterostomy for incomplete duplication and lower pole pelvi-ureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction, lower pole pyeloplasty for lower pole PUJ obstruction and complete duplication, and ipsilateral uretero-ureterostomy and distal ureterectomy for an obstructed, ectopic upper pole. Foley catheters were left indwelling for 36-48 h and stents were removed at 4-6 weeks. Postoperative imaging included either ultrasonography or intravenous urography. RESULTS Three children presented with intermittent flank pain due to lower pole PUJ obstruction. The other child presented with pyonephrosis and purulent drainage from her vagina due to an ectopic ureter associated with a functioning upper pole segment. All procedures were successfully completed. The only complication was in the first patient (pyelo-ureterostomy) who had transient urinary extravasation that resolved with bladder decompression for 10 days. With a follow-up of 6-18 months, all had resolution of symptoms with improvement in radiographic variables. CONCLUSIONS This series shows that children with duplex anomalies and obstruction can undergo successful reconstruction using techniques learned with laparoscopic pyeloplasty.
Drosophila melanogaster Selection for Survival of Bacillus cereus Infection: Life History Trait Indirect Responses.

To study evolved resistance/tolerance in an insect model, we carried out an experimental evolution study using D. melanogaster and the opportunistic pathogen B. cereus as the agent of selection. The selected lines evolved a 3.0- to 3.3-log increase in the concentration of spores required for 50% mortality after 18–24 generations of selection. In the absence of any treatment, selected lines evolved an increase in egg production and delayed development time. The latter response could be interpreted as a cost of evolution. Alternatively, delayed development might have been a target of selection resulting in increased adult fat body function including production of antimicrobial peptides, and, incidentally, yolk production for oocytes and eggs. When treated with autoclaved spores, the egg production difference between selected and control lines was abolished, and this response was consistent with the hypothesis of a cost of an induced immune response. Treatment with autoclaved spores also reduced life span in some cases and elicited early-age mortality in the selected and wound-control lines both of which were consistent with the hypothesis of a cost associated with induction of immune responses. In general, assays on egg production yielded key outcomes including the negative effect of autoclaved spores on egg production.
Salutary and deleterious effects of acidity on an indirect measure of metabolic rate and ATP concentrations in CNS cultures

Acidosis has traditionally been considered to mediate certain types of hypoxic-ischemic injury to the brain. However, the recent demonstration that moderate acidosis will reduce NMDA-mediated currents suggested that acidity could actually protect against types of ischemia and excitotoxicity, and in vitro studies now support this idea. Prompted by this, we have utilized the silicon microphysiometer, a recently-developed instrument that allows for indirect real-time measurement of metabolic rate by detecting proton efflux from small numbers of cultured cells, to determine whether acidity has protective effects upon cellular metabolism. Reducing extracellular pH from 7.4 to as low as 6.0 caused prompt, step-wise, and reversible inhibition of proton efflux rate in cortical and hippocampal cultures both normally and restricted to either glycolysis or oxidative metabolism. Approximately half of the inhibition was due to acidotic effects on NMDA-mediated currents, as demonstrated with NMDA receptor antagonists. Such an inhibition of this indirect metabolic measure could be associated with constant or increased ATP concentrations and represent a beneficial decrease in energy demands upon a neuron. Alternatively, an inhibition of proton efflux rate could be associated with ATP depletion and reflect impaired energy production. We observed a complex interplay between these opposing patterns. Reducing pH to 6.7 for 20 min caused significantly increased ATP concentrations, and prevented excitotoxin-induced ATP depletion. These effects of acidosis involved both NMDA-dependent and -independent actions. More severe (less than pH 6.7) acidosis did not cause ATP concentrations to rise, and if sustained for more than an hour caused a significant decline in ATP concentrations. Thus, despite the recent emphasis on the surprising neuroprotective potential of acidosis, a drop in pH is still likely to have complex and mixed consequences for brain tissue.
DIASPORE MORPHOLOGY AND SEED DISPERSAL IN SEVERAL WIND-DISPERSED ASTERACEAE.

I made measurements of morphology and settling velocity on seeds of 19 species of wind-dispersed Asteraceae. From the morphological measurements I calculated Reynolds numbers and approximate plume loadings for the species. Diaspore settling velocity increases linearly with the square root of plume loading. This relationship varies among species and among subfamilies, but not among life history types. Reynolds number is highly variable among subfamilies, less so within subfamilies. Diaspores with beaked achenes have significantly lower settling velocities than diaspores with unbeaked achenes, even though beaked and unbeaked achenes do not differ in plume loading or in Reynolds number. Reynolds numbers of all diaspores examined are well above the range in which Stokes' Law applies. I recommend that the use of formulae based on Stokes' Law be curtailed in studies of the relationship between plume loading and settling velocity. The results suggest that many seed characters may have evolved due to selection on dispersal ability. This is in spite of phyletic constraints on morphology reflected in the relative uniformity of Reynolds numbers within subfamilies.
Stellar collapse dynamics with neutrino flavor changing neutral currents

We perform one-zone simulations of the infall epoch of a presupernova stellar core in the presence of neutrino flavor changing scattering interactions. Our calculations give a self-consistent assessment of the relationship between flavor changing rates and the reduction in electron fraction and redistribution of initial electron lepton number among the neutrino flavors. We discuss and include in our calculations subnuclear density medium corrections for flavor changing scattering coherence factors. We find that flavor changing couplings {epsilon}>3x10{sup -4} in either the {nu}{sub e}{r_reversible}{nu}{sub {mu}} or {nu}{sub e}{r_reversible}{nu}{sub {tau}} channels result in a dynamically significant reduction in the core electron fraction relatively soon after neutrino trapping and well before the core reaches nuclear matter density.
Modulation of sensory-CNS-motor circuits by serotonin, octopamine, and dopamine in semi-intact Drosophila larva

We have introduced an in-situ preparation to induce motor unit activity by stimulating a sensory-CNS circuit, using the third instar larvae of Drosophila melanogaster. Discrete identifiable motor units that are well defined in anatomic and physiologic function can be recruited selectively and driven depending on the sensory stimulus intensity, duration, and frequency. Since the peripheral nervous system is bilaterally symmetric to coordinate bilateral symmetric segmental musculature patterns, fictive forms of locomotion are able to be induced. Monitoring the excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSP) on the prominent ventral longitudinal body wall muscles, such as m6 and m12, provides additional insight into how the selective motor units might be recruited within intact animals. We also introduce the actions of the neuromodulators (serotonin, octopamine (OA) and dopamine (DA)) on the inducible patterns of activity within the sensory-motor circuit. The powerful genetic manipulation in Drosophila opens many avenues for further investigations into the circuitry and cellular aspects of pattern generation and developmental issues of circuitry formation and maintenance in the model organism.
Robot-to-Robot Relative Pose Estimation From Range Measurements

In this paper, we address the problem of determining the 2-D relative pose of pairs of communicating robots from (1) robot-to-robot distance measurements and (2) displacement estimates expressed in each robot's reference frame. Specifically, we prove that for nonsingular configurations, the minimum number of distance measurements required for determining all six possible solutions for the 3 degree-of-freedom (3-DOF) robot-to-robot transformation is 3. Additionally, we show that given four distance measurements, the maximum number of solutions is 4, while five distance measurements are sufficient for uniquely determining the robot-to-robot transformation. Furthermore, we present an efficient algorithm for computing the unique solution in closed form and describe an iterative least-squares process for improving its accuracy. Finally, we derive necessary and sufficient observability conditions based on Lie derivatives and evaluate the performance of the proposed estimation algorithms both in simulation and via experiments.
Theoretical Models of Cognitive Aging and Implications for Translational Research in Medicine

Purpose: We provide an overview of theoretical models of cognitive aging and present empirical research that uses these models to explain older patients’ medical behaviors and to develop interventions for improving the delivery of health information and services to older adults. Design and Methods: Theoretical accounts of age and cognition are summarized and are related to key research findings, including age differences in comprehension of medical information, adherence, and use of medical technologies. The implications of cognitive aging theories for designing optimal medical environments and enhancing adherence are discussed. Results: Age declines in basic cognitive abilities such as working memory capacity limit older adults’ ability to comprehend and recall several types of novel medical information. In contrast, automatic processes and environmental cues can benefit older adults, as shown by age increases in compliance for practiced or mentally imaged health behaviors, but can also be dangerous, as shown by older adults’ greater belief in false but familiar health statements. Last, cognitive aging is shown to be a useful model for investigating cognitive disorders. Implications: Cognitive aging theories are important for understanding older patient behaviors and suggest age-related declines as well as gains in performance in medical domains. In addition, models of cognitive aging are useful in guiding the development of interventions that improve health care in older patients and in furthering our understanding of cognitive dysfunction in populations other than older adults.
Counter-based cache replacement algorithms

Recent studies have shown that in highly associative caches, the performance gap between the least recently used (LRU) and the theoretical optimal replacement algorithms is large, suggesting that alternative replacement algorithms can improve the performance of the cache. One main reason for this performance gap is that in the LRU replacement algorithm, a line is only evicted after it becomes the LRU line, long after its last access/touch, while unnecessarily occupying the cache space for a long time. This paper proposes a new approach to deal with the problem: counter-based L2 cache replacement. In this approach, each line in the L2 cache is augmented with an event counter that is incremented when an event of interest, such as a cache access to the same set, occurs. When the counter exceeds a threshold, the line "expires", and becomes evictable. When expired lines are evicted early from the cache, they make extra space for lines that may be more useful, reducing the number of capacity and conflict misses. Each line's threshold is unique and is dynamically learned and stored in a small 40-Kbyte counter prediction table. We propose two new replacement algorithms: access interval predictor (AIP) and live-time predictor (LvP). AIP and LvP speed up 10 (out of 21) SPEC2000 benchmarks by up to 40% and 11% on average.
Brand "Piracy" and Postwar Statecraft in Guatemala

In this article, I analyze significant gaps between what branding means in Guatemalan Maya communities and how brands are understood in international projects of legal harmonization that are also about rebranding the Guatemalan nation. Following Guatemala's internal armed conflict, neoliberal statecraft has involved policy approaches that amplify the presence of global brands while compounding conditions of socioeconomic inequality that limit Maya men and women's access to authorized goods. Meanwhile, Maya people are invited to participate in a modernist vision of citizenship and social progress that encourages a privatized model of indigenous identity mediated by branded commodities and formal market transactions. In this context, the brand is a powerful medium through which claims to legitimacy and authority are negotiated at national and local levels. [brands, piracy, intellectual property, trademark, fashion, Guatemala, Maya]