cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Indicators of Structural Stability of Object-Oriented Designs: A Case Study

The structural stability of an object-oriented design (OOD) refers to the extent to which the structure of the design is preserved throughout the evolution of the software from one release to the next. This paper empirically investigates potential indicators of measures of structural stability of OODs. Both product-related and process-related indicators are considered. These indicators were evaluated through a case study that involves 13 successive releases of Apache Ant. The results showed that each one of the stability metrics is significantly correlated with at least one of the investigated indicators. To make early predictions of the values of each one of the stability metrics, statistically significant regression models were constructed from subsets of the investigated indicators
Design Experiments in Educational Research

In this article, the authors first indicate the range of purposes and the variety of settings in which design experiments have been conducted and then delineate five crosscutting features that collectively differentiate design experiments from other methodologies. Design experiments have both a pragmatic bent—“engineering” particular forms of learning—and a theoretical orientation—developing domain-specific theories by systematically studying those forms of learning and the means of supporting them. The authors clarify what is involved in preparing for and carrying out a design experiment, and in conducting a retrospective analysis of the extensive, longitudinal data sets generated during an experiment. Logistical issues, issues of measure, the importance of working through the data systematically, and the need to be explicit about the criteria for making inferences are discussed.
28 GHz omni-directional quasi-optical transmitter array

Omni-directional base stations are needed in many emerging wireless communication systems. This paper presents the first adaptation of a quasi-optical oscillator array for this purpose. A 28 GHz active oscillator element containing a modified Vivaldi endfire antenna is utilized as the unit cell. Twelve of these are incorporated into the circular array, which is powered from a single DC power supply. The array has a high combining efficiency and remains frequency-locked over a span of 600 MHz. >
Bedload-to-suspended load ratio and rapid bedrock incision from Himalayan landslide-dam lake record

About 5400 cal yr BP, a large landslide formed a N400-m-tall dam in the upper Marsyandi River, central Nepal. The resulting lacustrine and deltaic deposits stretched N7 km upstream, reaching a thickness of 120 m. 14 C dating of 7 wood fragments reveals that the aggradation and subsequent incision occurred remarkably quickly (∼500 yr). Reconstructed volumes of lacustrine (∼0.16 km 3 ) and deltaic (∼0.09 km 3 ) deposits indicate a bedload-to-suspended load ratio of 1:2, considerably higher than the ≤1:10 that is commonly assumed. At the downstream end of the landslide dam, the river incised a new channel through ≥70 m of Greater Himalayan gneiss, requiring a minimum bedrock incision rate of 13 mm/ yr over last 5400 yr. The majority of incision presumably occurred over a fraction of this time, suggesting much higher rates. The high bedload ratio from such an energetic mountain river is a particularly significant addition to our knowledge of sediment flux in orogenic environments. © 2007 University of Washington. All rights reserved.
Grain‐Size Dependence of Fracture Energy in Ceramics: II, A Model for Noncubic Materials

A mathematical model of the grain-size dependence of fracture energy of noncubic ceramics is developed and discussed. This model attributes the maxima in fracture energy of noncubic materials to countertrends of increasing numbers of microcracks and decreasing energy absorption per microcrack as grain size increases. The model predicts results similar to those experimentally observed. Agreement between calculated and measured fracture energy values is generally good, except for materials with extreme anisotropy. Sources of these differences and methods of improving calculations are discussed.
Rapidly assessing the activation conditions and porosity of metal-organic frameworks using thermogravimetric analysis†

A methodology utilizing a thermogravimetric analyzer to monitor propane uptake following incremental increases of the temperature is demonstrated as a means of rapidly identifying porous materials and determining the optimum activation conditions of metal-organic frameworks.
Generalized phase space projection for nonlinear noise reduction

Improved phase space projection methods, adapted from related work in the linear signal processing field based on subspace decomposition, are presented for application to the problem of additive noise reduction in the context of phase space analysis. These methods improve upon existing methods such as Broomhead–King singular spectrum analysis projection by minimizing overall signal distortion subject to constraints on the residual error, rather than using a direct least-squares fit. This results in a range of weighted projections which estimate and compensate for the portion of the principal component’s singular values corresponding to noise rather than signal energy, and which include least-squares (LS) and least minimum mean square error (LMMSE) as subcases. The nature of phase space covariance, the key element in construction of the projection matrix, is examined across global phase spaces as well as within local neighborhood regions. The resulting algorithm, illustrated on a noisy Henon map as well as on the task of speech enhancement, is applicable to a wide variety of nonlinear noise reduction tasks.
Membrane targeting of p21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) induces neurite outgrowth from PC12 cells.

Rho‐family GTPases regulate cytoskeletal dynamics in various cell types. p21‐activated kinase 1 (PAK1) is one of the downstream effectors of Rac and Cdc42 which has been implicated as a mediator of polarized cytoskeletal changes in fibroblasts. We show here that the extension of neurites induced by nerve growth factor (NGF) in the neuronal cell line PC12 is inhibited by dominant‐negative Rac2 and Cdc42, indicating that these GTPases are required components of the NGF signaling pathway. While cytoplasmically expressed PAK1 constructs do not cause efficient neurite outgrowth from PC12 cells, targeting of these constructs to the plasma membrane via a C‐terminal isoprenylation sequence induced PC12 cells to extend neurites similar to those stimulated by NGF. This effect was independent of PAK1 ser/thr kinase activity but was dependent on structural domains within both the N‐ and C‐terminal portions of the molecule. Using these regions of PAK1 as dominant‐negative inhibitors, we were able to effectively inhibit normal neurite outgrowth stimulated by NGF. Taken together with the requirement for Rac and Cdc42 in neurite outgrowth, these data suggest that PAK(s) may be acting downstream of these GTPases in a signaling system which drives polarized outgrowth of the actin cytoskeleton in the developing neurite.
Emergency Department Utilization, Hospital Admissions, and Physician Visits Among Elderly African American Persons

This study uses a theoretical model of health services utilization to examine (a) emergency department utilization, (b) hospital admissions, and (c) office-based physician visits among a sample of 998 low-income elderly African American persons. Poisson Regression analysis was used to estimate the parameters specified in the Andersen behavioral model. Some of the more interesting results include the following: (a) a greater frequency of emergency room visits among respondents with a lower level of accessibility to physician services, (b) a lack of a significant relationship between some chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart problems and the frequency of office-based physician visits, (c) a greater number of hospital admissions among insured persons, and (d) a significant impact of the health locus of control indexes on all three types of health care utilization. The results of this study challenge the assumption that hospital and emergency use are the results of nondiscretionary behavior.
Training professional technical writers and editors: a pedagogical model for a tripartite approach

The author presents a practical pedagogical model for training professional technical writers and editors. The model develops a tripartite approach to technical writing and editing which includes a structural analysis, a pictorial analysis, and a fine editing analysis. >
Health Policy and the Coloring of an American Male Crisis: A Perspective on Community-Based Health Services

Health services at the community level are organized and financed in such a way that men need access but encounter barriers to care such as poor service design, lack of insurance, and the absence of health literacy. Community health delivery systems may not be appropriate, effective, fit, or able to meet the needs they are charged to fill. Community-based health services, including health departments, are underfunded, understaffed, and unable to carry out their mission in a way that protects the health of the community. The current design for funding and delivering health care services excludes poor men, particularly men of color. Improving the health of men requires modifications in the way health care is financed, delivered, and managed.
Stains Compatible with Dipping Radioautography

Paraffin sections of 13 different kinds of mouse tissues, containing tritiated thymidine, were used to test stains applied either before or after application of the nuclear emulsion by dipping. Criteria used to determine compatibility were good histological definition with moderate gelatin coloration, sharp contrast to silver granules and no artifact or bleaching. Stains which worked best when applied prior to dipping included Feulgen-fast green, chronium hematoxylin-phloxine, and aldehyde fuchsin-PAS. Stains which worked best when performed after photographic development included celestin blue-Mayer's haemalum, metanil yellow-iron hematoxylin, lithium carmine-picric acid, Weigert acid-iron hematoxylin, alum cochineal, methyl green-pyronin, indigo carmine-picric acid, methylene blue-azure A, toluidine blue, Nissl and Cason. “Combination” stains which worked well when tissues were partially stained before dipping and completed after development included trichrome-PAS, luxol fast blue-PAS, hematoxylin-eosin...
Mouthing and grasping in neonates: Evidence for the early detection of what hard or soft substances afford for action

Abstract Newborns and 2- and 3-month-old infants were presented for 3 min with a rigid or an elastic object either introduced into their mouths for mouthing or into their right hands for grasping. Each object was connected to an air pressure transducer allowing polygraphic recording of the positive pressure variations applied by the infant to the object. Results indicate that, from birth, infants haptically discriminate between the rigidity and elasticity of objects by generating different rates and patterns of responses. Furthermore, the differential haptic responding by the infant does not manifest itself in an analogous manner for the oral or the manual modality of response but is reversed relative to the two objects' properties. During the first 3 months, a developmental trend is observed wherein the infant's oral response rates and patterns begin to align themselves with her/his manual responding to either one of the two objects. Relative to a similar output of positive pressures generated orally or manually, these observations show that from birth the infant's response is both object-dependent (hard vs. soft substance) and modality-dependent (oral vs. manual condition). These results are interpreted as suggesting that early mouthing and grasping are not merely controlled by reflexive (automatic) mechanisms but rather are guided by what objects afford for functional actions.
Independence claims in linguistics

Empirical work in linguistics often puts forward claims about the independence of two phenomena as substantive hypotheses. But, independence is always an assumption in the framework of empirical hypothesis testing, meaning independence claims are not empirically verifiable. Hence, they need to be regarded differently from truly empirical hypotheses within the substantive theories of which they are part. In this paper, a number of independence claims are illustrated, alongside their problematic consequences for empirically guided theorizing. Recommendations are made regarding the use of independence that should facilitate the empirical testing of substantive linguistic hypotheses.
Identification of homologous core structures.

Using a large database of protein structure–structure alignments, we test a new method for distinguishing homologous and “analogous” structural neighbors. The homologous neighbors included in the test set show no detectable sequence similarity, but they may be well superimposed and show functional similarity or other evidence of evolutionary relationship. Analogous neighbors also show no sequence similarity and may be well superimposed, but they have different functions and their structural similarity may be the result of convergent evolution. Confirming results of other analyses, we find that remote homologs and analogs are not well distinguished by measures of pairwise structural similarity, including the percentage of identical residues and root-mean-square (RMS) superposition residual. We show, however, that with structure–structure alignments of analogous neighbors rarely superimpose the particular substructure that is shared among homologous neighbors. We call this characteristic substructure the homologous core structure (HCS), and we show that a cross-validated test for presence of the HCS correctly identifies 75% of remote homologs with a false-positive rate of 16% analogs, significantly better than discrimination by RMS or other measures of pairwise similarity. The HCS describes conservation of spatial structure within a protein family in much the way that a sequence motif describes sequence conservation. We suggest that it may be used in the same way, to identify homologous neighbors at greater evolutionary distance than is possible by pairwise comparison. Proteins 1999;35:70–79. Published 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Allogeneic peripheral-blood progenitor-cell transplantation for poor-risk patients with metastatic breast cancer.

PURPOSETo evaluate the feasibility of allogeneic peripheral-blood progenitor-cell (PBPC) transplantation and to assess graft-versus-tumor effects in patients with metastatic breast cancer.PATIENTS AND METHODSTen patients with metastatic breast cancer that involved the liver or bone marrow were treated with high-dose chemotherapy and allogeneic PBPC transplantation. The median age was 42 years (range, 29 to 55). The median number of metastatic sites was three (range, one to five). The conditioning regimen was cyclophosphamide (6,000 mg/m2), carmustine (BCNU; 450 mg/m2), and thiotepa (720 mg/m2) (CBT regimen). Patients received graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis using cyclosporine- or tacrolimus-based regimens.RESULTSAll patients had engraftment and hematologic recovery. Three patients developed grade > or = 2 acute GVHD and four patients had chronic GVHD. After transplantation, one patient was in complete remission (CR), five achieved a partial remission (PR), and four had stable disease (SD). In...
Primary Pancreatic Lymphomas

Primary pancreatic lymphomas are extremely rare. Clinically, primary pancreatic lymphomas usually present with symptoms of carcinoma of the pancreatic head. Patients with primary pancreatic lymphomas are between 35 and 75 years of age and with a strong male predominance. Common clinical manifestations include abdominal pain, jaundice, acute pancreatitis, small bowel obstruction, and diarrhea. An accurate cytopathologic diagnosis by fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is imperative because the primary treatment is non-surgical. Cytomorphologic features include hypercellularity with discohesive cells with round nuclei, often prominent nucleoli, mitoses, and karyorrhexis. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrates a monoclonal pattern of immunoglobulin light chain expression. FNA coupled with flow cytometry analysis appears to be highly accurate in the diagnosis of primary pancreatic lymphomas. Fluorescence in-situ hybridisation technique has been established its role in the diagnosis of lymphoid malignancies, including primary pancreatic lymphomas. LDH and beta-2 microglobulin are important diagnostic and prognostic tumor markers. The differential diagnoses of primary pancreatic lymphomas include secondary lymphoma, pancreatic endocrine neoplasm, and florid chronic pancreatitis. The role of surgery is limited to the rare occasions when initial FNA and flow cytometry analysis are non-diagnostic. Treatment usually consists of a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, or stem cell transplantation. Primary pancreatic lymphomas has a much better prognosis than adenocarcinoma of the pancreas.
Changes in insulin sensitivity from stress during repetitive sampling in anesthetized rats.

The effect of repetitive sampling on insulin sensitivity was studied in anesthetized rats. During glucose clamp studies, glucose disposal decreased from 9.3 +/- 0.9 (SE) to 6.5 +/- 1.1 mg.kg-1.min-1 (P less than 0.05), and hepatic glucose output (HGO) increased from 1.2 +/- 0.8 to 2.4 +/- 1.1 mg.kg-1.min-1 (P less than 0.05) after a cumulative blood loss of 9 ml/kg. After a loss of 15 ml/kg, HGO rose further to 4.7 +/- 1.6 mg.kg-1.min-1 (P less than 0.05). During repetitive sampling under identical conditions, plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) increased, despite simultaneous saline infusion, from 68 +/- 11 to 102 +/- 15 pg/ml (P less than 0.05) with a loss of 8 ml/kg, while plasma insulin increased from 39 +/- 7 to 124 +/- 20 mU/l (P less than 0.01) with a loss of 10 ml/kg. Thereafter, ACTH and insulin rose progressively. Plasma corticosterone closely followed the pattern of the ACTH response, indicating that the stress of cumulative blood loss had a significant effect on adrenal steroid production. Increases in ACTH were retarded by reduced volume loss and accelerated by increased loss. It is concluded that stress from blood loss greater than 7 ml/kg may be a source of error in the evaluation of glucose turnover and insulin sensitivity during clamp experiments in rats.
Fly ash-based geopolymer with kappa-carrageenan biopolymer

Abstract This chapter for the first time investigates the enhancement of fly ash-based geopolymer with kappa-carrageenan (KC), a seaweed extract. Mechanical tests were conducted to study the improvement of strength and prepeak toughness, and scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were employed to study the microstructural and chemical evolution when different amounts of KC were incorporated in the fly ash-based geopolymer paste specimens. The results indicate that when the appropriate amount of KC is incorporated, the strength and prepeak toughness of the geopolymer increases substantially due to the hydrogen bonds and the more condensed geopolymer structure.
Moving Away and Reaching Out: Young Adults’ Relational Maintenance and Psychosocial Well-Being During the Transition to College

ABSTRACTIn this study, we extended the research on students’ stress and psychosocial well-being during the transition to college to consider the potential moderating effect of their communication of relational maintenance with a parent. We found that as students’ (N = 155) daily stress increased, their daily loneliness and depression increased, and their daily happiness decreased. Moreover, we identified students’ daily communication of openness and assurances with a parent as moderators of the association between their daily stress and daily loneliness. These results suggest that students’ communication with a parent is a salient factor in their well-being during the transition to college.
Aerodynamic and Chemical Characteristics of Six Engineered Nanomaterial Powders

Six engineered nanomaterial (ENM) powders (nano-diamond, nano-silver, nano-titanium dioxide, single walled carbon nanotubes, multi-walled carbon nanotubes, and C60 fullerenes) were investigated to determine their aerodynamic and chemical characteristics. Materials were suspended in a controlled environmental chamber, collected on filters and cascading deposition impactors (MOUDI), and then underwent gravimetric and chemical analysis using standard atmospheric aerosol methodologies. The chemical analyses included examining elemental/organic carbon (EC/OC), soluble metals by ICP-MS, organics by TD-GCMS, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) macrophage assay. Chemical composition and toxicity were compared to urban ambient PM values to give context to the ENM results, allowing a relative assessment of aerosol characteristics and the risks associated with ENM emissions. The results show that ENM particle suspensions generally exist in the accumulation or coarse particle mode range, while large mass concentrations of Aitken-nuclei mode particles were not observed. Key findings include the following: the organic and elemental carbon analysis of the carbon structured ENM could not adequately reconstruct the mass of these carbon based materials, suggesting the carbon structure of these samples is too refractive or the carbonaceous material is not oxidized sufficiently to allow accurate quantification with standard thermal-optical EC/OC analysis; the materials exhibited very low quantities of PAHs and alkanes, with the majority of these constituents below detection limits; a select group of soluble metals were detected in concentrations similar to those observed in urban ambient samples on a mass per mass basis, and lastly, the biological activity of the ENM was found to be small (by in-vitro ROS macrophage assay), especially when compared to the activity of atmospheric PM2.5 in an urban location in the US.
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids. VI.

Highly unsaturated fatty acid esters carrying more than 4 nonconjugated double bonds changed their structure to the conjugated polyene form, when heated under interruption of air.The compounds produced by heating at 200°C without solvent were linear and had the cis-cis-trans conjugated triene form showing absorption maxima at 266, 277 and 287.5mμ, whereas those prepared by treating at 215°C together with 10 times of microcrystalline wax consisted both of the linear and of the ring compounds, in nearly the same proportion.In both cases, the conjugated triene compounds were all monomeric and the dimeric triene was never found.When heated at 250°C without solvent the produced conjugated diene had the absorption maximum at 236mμ and consisted mainly of the dimeric compounds having the cyclohexane ring structure.In contrast, the compounds treated at 250°C with microcrystalline wax included not only the dimeric conjugated diene, above described, but also the monomeric diene that may have the polycyclic form as well as cyclohexane ring in about the same ratio.Polymer more than dimer was scarcely found under our experimental conditions.
Dual fucci: a new transgenic line for studying the cell cycle from embryos to adults.

While technological innovations are sometimes published in methods papers, theyoften are partof a research paper and thus not apparent to people outside of the specific research area. To enhance the dissemination of generally useful technological advances and transgenic lines, Zebrafish is introducing TechnoFish, which will highlight these innovations for the general zebrafish community. The advantagefor thecommunity is that it willhighlight technological advances inpapers that many people might otherwise miss, and the advantage for authors is that it will draw broad attention to their paper. Authors who feel that this is appropriate for their work will submit a short (150 word or less) description, written in the third person, which highlights why their method or transgenic line is of general interest. Afigure should be included to draw interest, which is attractive in both black and white (for the printed version) and in color (for the online version). The submission will be rapidly reviewed to ensure that the technology is of general interest and is clearly described. By submitting this, authors are also agreeing that all relevant plasmids, transgenic lines, etc., will be made available to all who request it. We are accepting submissions or inquiries for your TechnoFish — please address to David Kimelman (kimelman@uw.edu). FIG. 1. The Dual Fucci transgene, which uses the ubiquitin promoter to drive expression, produces both a Cerulean-tagged degron, which is detectable during the S/G2/M phases of the cell cycle, and a Cherry-tagged degron, which is only detectable during the G1 phase. Color image available online at www.liebertpub.com/zeb
NUMERICAL COMPARISON OF WAVE SYNTHESIS METHODS

A numerical comparison study is carried out on a variety of methods for synthesizing pseudo-random Gaussian wave records for laboratory wave generation. Three nonharmonic superposition methods and three time domain filtering procedures are compared to a harmonic FFT technique. The synthesis methods are evaluated on the basis of a statistical analysis of 16 standard wave parameters obtained from a set of 200 wave records. Second order group-bounded long wave components are also investigated.
In Vitro Assessment of Platelet Damage During Rotator Storage

The measurement of beta-thromboglobulin (BTG) and platelet lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) as markers for alpha-granule release and platelet lysis, respectively, has been reported to correlate with the amount of damage incurred during the preparation and storage of platelet concentrates. We compared the concentrations of these markers in the supernatant plasma of platelets stored on platform, elliptical, and circular rotators. Significant BTG release occurred after 24 hours on all three rotators (P less than 0.01), but LDH discharge after 24 hours was significant (P less than 0.05) only with elliptical rotation. BTG and LDH levels were not significantly different at any time when platform and circular rotations were compared, but both markers were significantly (P less than .05) higher during elliptical rotation. The lower levels of BTG release and LDH discharge during platform and circular agitation implies that these rotators produce less in vitro platelet activation and damage than occurs with elliptical agitation.
Lipemia-induced acceleration of intravascular clotting.

SummaryIntravenous administration of a fat emulsion has been found to accelerate substantially the formation of a fibrin clot in isolated venous segments of anesthetized dogs. This finding is interpreted as implying that induced lipemia may contribute to, or result in, an in vivo hypercoagulable state.
Preparation,Characterization and Drug Loading Properties of Fluorescent-magnetic Nano-microsphere Dy_xFe_(3-x)O_4@PEGMA-Tb

The Dy3+-doped ferrite magnetic fluids were synthesized by a improved chemical co-precipitation method,and magnetic nano-particles consisting of hydroxyl radicals were prepared by photochemical synthesis in the hydrophilic magnetic fluid DyxFe3-xO4,the monomer PEGMA(poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) and the cross-linker MBA(N,N′-methylene-bis-acrylamide).Fluorescent magnetic polymer microspheres(FMPMs) containing Tb were synthesized and characterized by VSM,PCS,FTIR,TGA,SEM and FS.The drug loading-releasing property of FMPMs was analyzed with pharmaceutical model of mitomycin C.The results show that FMPMs has superparamagnetism,fluorescence,high dispersion and sphericity,high drug loading and embedding ratio,a great effect of relaxation ability in vitro on pH,a very remarkable magnetic responsibility,and therefore can be used as high-quality drug carrier.
Construction of communication theory experiment teaching system

To train students' ability of acting hands,synthesizing,designing and researching,the experiment teaching system is constituted.Experimental means add Matlab Systemview emulational experiments and FPGA/CPLD DSP designed experiments,changes validated signal experiments.Experimental methods add elective and opened contents.The paper gives measures of training experiment teachers,constructs laboratory management platform and consummates laboratory management system.
Altered Mucin and Glycoprotein Expression in Dry Eye Disease

Purpose Mucins are among the many important constituents of a healthy tear film. Mucins secreted and/or associated with conjunctival goblet cells, ocular mucosal epithelial cells, and the lacrimal gland must work together to create a stable tear film. Although many studies have explored the mechanism(s) whereby mucins maintain and protect the ocular surface, the effects of dry eye on the structure and function of ocular mucins are unclear. Here, we summarize current findings regarding ocular mucins and how they are altered in dry eye. Methods We performed a literature review of studies exploring the expression of mucins produced and/or associated with tissues that comprise the lacrimal functional unit and how they are altered in dry eye. We also summarize new insights on the immune-mediated effects of aqueous tear deficiency on ocular surface mucins that we discovered using a mouse model of dry eye. Results Although consistent decreases in MUC5AC and altered expression of membrane-bound mucins have been noted in both Sjogren and non-Sjogren dry eye, many reports of altered mucins in dry eye are contradictory. Mechanistic studies, including our own, suggest that changes in the glycosylation of mucins rather than the proteins themselves may occur as the direct result of local inflammation induced by proinflammatory mediators, such as interleukin-1. Conclusions Altered expression of ocular mucins in dry eye varies considerably from study to study, likely attributed to inherent difficulties in analyzing small-volume tear samples, as well as differences in tear collection methods and disease severity in dry eye cohorts. To better define the functional role of ocular mucin glycosylation in the pathogenesis of dry eye disease, we propose genomic and proteomic studies along with biological pathway analysis to reveal novel avenues for exploration.
Genetic optimization and experimental verification of complex parallel pumping station with centrifugal pumps

Abstract While single pump design allows operation at high performance levels, multi-pumping systems are controlled to cover actual flow rate requirements, with less emphasis on power consumption. Widely accessible sensors and programmable controllers can improve this approach. This paper discusses the methodology for optimizing analysis of a complex pumping system with set of parallel centrifugal pumps. For this purpose, an experimental model pumping station, with four pumps in a parallel configuration, was designed and constructed. Auxiliary equipment allows control of each pump by three possible methods: (i) discharge valve, (ii) by-pass flow, and (iii) variable speed drive (VSD). For system performance optimization, three estimating strategies, that are functions of control input parameters at each pump were proposed: (i) minimization of power consumption, (ii) flow rate balancing and (iii) maximization of overall efficiency. A Uniquely developed (C++) genetic algorithm (GENOCOP) determined solutions and these were positively verified by measurements at the model experimental station. Results show the existence of multiple local extrema for all of estimating strategies. These solutions show it is possible to control a complex pumping station with various combinations of control parameters, giving similar results. This analysis demonstrates that the strategy of minimizing power consumption is the most energy efficient and proves the described methodology as a powerful tool for optimizing of complex pumping stations.
An investigation of cognitive overlap in working memory profiles in children with developmental disorders

Abstract We investigated the nature of cognitive independence or overlap between working memory and IQ in the following developmental disorder groups: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectual Disability (ID), and Speech and Language Impairment (SLI). Participants were tested on standardized measures of IQ and working memory. The data indicates that there was some cognitive overlap in visuo-spatial working memory and nonverbal IQ. All three developmental disorder groups were distinguished by their severity of deficits: the SLI group performed in the normal range; the ASD group had scores in low-average range, and ID group scored below average. These findings correspond with evidence that developmental disorders do not have single, independent cognitive deficit. Clinical and educational support should be tailored accordingly.
Therapeutisches Management intraabdomineller und retroperitonealer Weichgewebssarkome

Gegenstand dieser Ubersichtsarbeit ist die Diagnostik, Therapie, Nachsorge und Prognose intraabdomineller und retroperitonealer Weichgewebssarkome. Beschrieben und diskutiert werden chirurgische Verfahren, die Vor- und Nachteile verschiedener Formen und Kombinationen adjuvanter und neoadjuvanter Therapien, die Therapie bei Irresektabilitat und das Vorgehen bei Desmoidtumoren. Behandlungsergebnisse, Uberwachungsstrategien und Studien, die sich mit neuen Therapieansatzen beschaftigen, werden vorgestellt.
B-integral dependent ellipse rotation effects on large-aperture, hlgh-power third harmonic conversion

Large-aperture high-power solid-state laser systems for inertial confinement fusion (ICF) research, such as the recently activated Nova system at LLNL, are frequency converted from the 1.053-μm fundamental (1ω) to the second (2ω), third (3ω), and fourth (4ω) harmonic wavelengths for efficient laser-target coupling,1 It is therefore essential that we understand the optical processes that limit efficient frequency conversion. We report here on the implications of recent observations using the Nova laser system of a power-dependent rotation of the plane of polarization of the output beam. This rotation occurs in slightly depolarized regions of the beam and depends in magnitude on the polarization ellipticity and B-integral accumulated in the propagation path subsequent to the depolarizing components. In particular, we find that third harmonic (3ω) conversion with type II phase matching2 is adversely affected, because a polarization orientation error as small as 1° or 2° causes a premature backconversion of the 3ω field to the input 1ω and 2ω fields. We have conducted experiments on Nova to understand the details of dynamic polarization rotation and the implications for second3 and third harmonic, frequency converted, solid-state laser systems. Recent experiments show 65 % conversion of the full aperture 1.053-μm Nova beam to the third harmonic when the output polarization is fixed with an additional polarizing element.
Mathematical Models of Synaptic Transmission and Short-Term Plasticity

The synapse is the storehouse of memories, both short-term and long-term, and is the location at which learning takes place. There are trillions of synapses in the brain, and in many ways they are one of the fundamental building blocks of this extraordinary organ. As one might expect for such an important structure, the inner workings of the synapse are quite complex. This complexity, along with the small size of a typical synapse, poses many experimental challenges. It is for this reason that mathematical models and computer simulations of synaptic transmission have been used for more than two decades. Many of these models have focused on the presynaptic terminal, particularly on the role of Ca2+ in gating transmitter release (Parnas and Segel, 1981; Simon and Llinas, 1985; Fogelson and Zucker, 1985; Yamada and Zucker, 1992; Aharon et al., 1994; Heidelberger et al., 1994; Bertram et al., 1996; Naraghi and Neher, 1997; Bertram et al., 1999a; Tang et al., 2000; Matveev et al., 2002). The terminal is where neurotransmitters are released, and is the site of several forms of short-term plasticity, such as facilitation, augmentation, and depression (Zucker and Regehr, 2002). Mathematical modeling has been used to investigate the properties of various plasticity mechanisms, and to refine understanding of these mechanisms (Fogelson and Zucker, 1985; Yamada and Zucker, 1992; Bertram et al., 1996; Klingauf and Neher, 1997; Bertram and Sherman, 1998; Tang et al., 2000; Matveev et al., 2002). Importantly, modeling has in several cases been the motivation for new experiments (Zucker and Lando, 1986; Hochner et al., 1989; Kamiya and Zucker, 1994; Winslow et al., 1994; Tang et al., 2000). In this chapter, we describe some of the mathematical models that have been developed for transmitter release and presynaptic plasticity, and discuss how these models have shaped, and have been shaped by, experimental studies.
Neuropsychological functioning following cardiac transplant in Danon disease.

ABSTRACTPurpose: To present a unique case involving a 31-year-old male with Danon disease (diagnosed at 14) who received cardiac transplant and subsequent cardiac re-transplant. Research design: Brief report/case study. Methods: Serial neuropsychological assessment across a 23-year span along with a review of school records and prior psychoeducational assessment. Results: A consistent pattern of higher level cognitive impairment from childhood through adulthood was found. This pattern is interpreted in light of the sparse literature regarding cognitive and adaptive functioning related to Danon disease. Conclusions: The noteworthy aspects of this case include the preservation of some academic abilities and an unexpected level of functional independence given cognitive concerns. This case study further explores the nature of the deficits related to Danon disease and highlights the benefits of neuropsychological evaluation to guide functional interventions and maximize level of independence across the life span.
Mononuclear Rhodium(II) and Iridium(II) Complexes Supported by Tetradentate Pyridinophane Ligands.

The tetradentate ligands N,N′-dialkyl-2,11-diaza[3,3](2,6)pyridinophane (RN4, where R = Me or tBu) were employed to synthesize and fully characterize [(RN4)MI(COD)]+ complexes (M = Rh or Ir; COD = cyclooctadiene). Interestingly, these complexes exhibit accessible oxidation potentials and can generate detectable [(RN4)MII(COD)]2+ complexes, which were characterized by electron paramagnetic resonance and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Moreover, a rare mononuclear [(MeN4)RhII(COD)]2+ complex was isolated and crystallographically characterized, allowing for a direct comparison with its rhodium(I) analogue. The detailed characterization of such paramagnetic rhodium(II) and iridium(II) complexes enables further investigation of their redox reactivity.
Right Truncated Normal

The right-truncated normal distribution (RTN) takes on many shapes, from a normal to an inverted exponential-like. The distribution has one parameter, k, called the right-location parameter of the standard normal distribution. The distribution includes all the standard normal values smaller than k, and thereby the density skews towards the left-tail. The important statistics are readily computed and are the following: mean, standard deviation, coefficient-of-variation, cumulative probability, and a variety of percent-points. Table values are provided to allow the analyst to apply the distribution to sample data. Also included is a series of plots that show the analyst how the density is shaped with respect to the right-location parameter. The percent-points are all negative values since the distribution starts with zero at the right-truncated location parameter, and subsequently moves downward to the left. Hence, the average and coefficient-of-variation are also negative values. When sample data is available, the average, standard deviation and coefficient-of variation are easily computed, and the analyst can apply these to identify the right-truncated normal distribution that best fits the sample data. This also allows the analyst to estimate any probabilities needed on the sample data, without having to always assume the normal distribution. Examples are provided to help the user on the application of the distribution. In Chap. 7, (Truncated Normal Spread Ratio), another statistic is introduced and allows the analyst to easily identify the type of distribution (left-truncated, right-truncated, normal) that best fits sample data. This chapter pertains to a right-truncated normal distribution; while the prior chapter describes the left-truncated normal. Recall from Chap. 1, (Continuous Distributions), only the beta distribution offers a choice of shapes that skew to the left, and thereby this right-truncated normal distribution may well be a welcome alternative. Furthermore, the percent-points of the right-truncated normal are far easier to compute that those of the beta distribution.
Are Free Trade Agreements Always Beneficial

Free trade agreements such as NAFTA are based on a 19th century conclusion of classical theory entitled the law of comparative advantage. If free trade is permitted classical theory states each nation should specialize in particular industry in which it had a comparative cost advantage and the result will be global full employment and more goods and services available for everyone. The Keynes theory argues that comparative advantage is only applicable for foreign trade in minerals and climate affected industries such as agriculture. For all mass production manufacturing industries, free trade favors nations that do not treat its workers in a civilized manner but instead production occurs under “sweatshop” conditions. Free trade in manufacturing industries is destructive to prosperity and full employment conditions in developed nations Poicies are necessary to prevent free trade if production occurs in foreirgn factories under “sweatshop” conditions.
CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE IS ASSOCIATED WITH WORSE MORTALITY, INCREASED LENGTH OF STAY AND INCREASED HOSPITAL COSTS IN PATIENTS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION: A NATIONWIDE STUDY

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been found to be independently associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). We aim to assess the impact of COPD on patients with AF, as data is limited on the effects of co-existence of these two conditions on inpatient mortality, length of stay (LOS)
Regional Assessment of North America: Urbanization Trends, Biodiversity Patterns, and Ecosystem Services

North America contains some of the most urbanized landscapes in the world. In the United States (U.S.) and Canada, approximately 80 % of the population is urban, with Mexico slightly less (Kaiser Family Foundation 2013). Population growth combined with economic growth has fueled recent urban land expansion in North America. Between 1970 and 2000, urban land area expanded at a rate of 3.31 % (Seto et al. 2011) creating unique challenges for conserving biodiversity and maintaining regional and local ecosystem services.
The Role of Discourse Context in Reference Production and Comprehension: Insights From the Lexical Differentiation Effect

Abstract In conversation, interlocutors design referential expressions with respect to both local and historical contexts. Referential expressions that are more specific than necessary given the local context often can be motivated by the historical discourse context. To explore the breadth of the relevant discourse context in conversation, many studies have examined how past references from the previous discourse context affect current language use. Lexical differentiation is a phenomenon that reflects the contribution of discourse history to referential design. The term refers to speakers' tendency to use two different labels (or modifiers) to name two subsequently presented objects from the same category. In multiple studies, this has been replicated in production , but the size of the effect has been small. I discuss the source of lexical differentiation and identify the factors that can cause the discourse history to exert a larger effect on referential design. Further, I introduce mixed findings regarding lexical differentiation in comprehension : listeners' brain responses reveal clear sensitivity to the discourse history, but this is not observed in behavioral measures (e.g., eye-movements). Lastly, lexical differentiation can reveal the interaction of memory and referential design in cognitive processes, and, thus, I discuss potential future work that could elucidate the mechanisms that support interlocutors' reference use on the basis of multifaceted measures.
Performance of Ramp and Pitfall Traps for Arthropods and non-Target Vertebrates in Californian Oak Woodland and Chaparral Habitats

Selection of tools for monitoring epigeal arthropods may be limited by site characteristics and the need to reduce risk of vertebrate bycatch. We designed a ramp trap for sampling surface-active arthropod diversity and compared its effectiveness with pitfall traps. Paired transects of ten ramp and ten pitfall traps were laid out in five sites at the Hopland Research and Extension Center in California. We identified and enumerated the ground-dwelling arthropods in the samples, with an emphasis on beetles and spiders, and compared trap types using t-tests and NMDS. There was no significant difference in abundance and diversity between ramp and pitfall traps for beetles or spiders; however, there were significantly more millipedes caught by pitfall traps. The NMDS analysis of beetle assemblages distinguished between trap types; however, differences were not significant for spider assemblages. The ramp traps were more difficult to fabricate and transport because of their complexity and bulk, but they were easier and faster to setup, more resistant to disturbance, and resulted in less vertebrate bycatch. Ramp traps are a useful tool to be used alongside or as an alternative to pitfall traps.
3-D constraint effects on models for transferability of cleavage fracture toughness

Since the late 1980s there has been renewed interest and progress in understanding the effects of constraint on transgranular cleavage in ferritic steels. Research efforts to characterize the complex interaction of crack tip separation processes with geometry, loading mode and material flow properties proceed along essentially two major lines of investigation: (1) multi-parameter descriptions of stationary crack-tip fields under large-scale yielding conditions, and (2) rational micromechanics models for the description of cleavage fracture which also reflect the observed scatter in the ductile-to-brittle transition (DBT) region. This article reviews the essential features of a specific example representing each approach: the J-Q extension to correlative fracture mechanics and a local approach based on the Weibull stress. Discussions focus on the growing body of 3-D numerical solutions for common fracture specimens which, in certain cases, prove significantly different from long-established plane-strain results.
Expert Secondary Content-Area Teachers' Pedagogical Schemas for Teaching Literacy to Students with Learning Disabilities.

Secondary content-area teachers seldom use research-based practices for students with learning disabilities (LD), and prior research indicates they often conceptualize instruction in ways that alig...
What's in the Secret Sauce? The Importance of Self-Regulation in Building Entrepreneurial Expertise

The study of expertise in the field of entrepreneurship is still in its infancy as scholars strive to identify those personal, behavioral, and environmental characteristics that influence skill dev...