cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microgametogenesis in Plumbago zeylanica (Plumbaginaceae). 2. Quantitative cell and organelle dynamics of the male reproductive cell lineage

Quantitative cell and organelle dynamics of the male gamete-producing lineage of Plumbago zeylanica were examined using serial transmission electron microscopic reconstruction at five stages of development from generative cell inception to sperm cell maturity. The founder population of generative cell organelles includes an average of 3.88 plastids, 54.9 mitochondria, and 3.7 vacuoles. During development the volume of the pollen grain increases from 6,200 μm3 in early microspores to 115,000 μm3 at anthesis, cell volume of the male germ lineage decreases more than 67% from 362.3 μm3 to 118.4 μm3. By the time the generative cell separates from the intine, plastid numbers increase by >600%, mitochondria by 250%, and vesicles by 43 times. A cellular projection elongates toward and establishes an association with the vegetative nucleus; this leading edge contains plastids and numerous mitochondria. When the generative cell completes its separation from the intine, organellar polarity is reversed and plastids migrate to the opposite pole of the cell. Cytoplasmic microtubules are common in association with cellular organelles. Plastids accumulate at the distal end of the cell as a linked mass, apparently adhered by lateral electron dense regions. Before division of the highly polarized generative cell, plastids decrease in number by 16%, whereas mitochondria increase by ∼90% and vacuoles increase by ∼140% from the prior stage. After mitosis, the resultant sperm cells differ in size and organelle content. The sperm cell associated with the vegetative nucleus (Svn) contains 62.7% of the cytoplasm volume, 87% of the mitochondria, 280.4 vesicles (79% of those in the generative cell), and 0.6% of the plastids. At maturity, the Svn mitochondria increase by 31% and the cell contains an average of 0.4 plastids, 158.9 vesicles, and 0.36 microbodies. The mature unassociated sperm (Sua) contains 39.8 mitochondria (up 3.3%), 24.3 plastids (down 31%), 91.1 vesicles (up 54.9%), and 3.18 microbodies. The small number of organelles initially in the generative cell, followed by their rapid multiplication in a shrinking cytoplasm suggests a highly competitive cytoplasmic environment that would tend to eliminate residual organellar heterogeneity. Cell and cytoplasmic volumes vary as a consequence of fluctuations in the number and size of large vesicles or vacuoles, as well as loss of cytoplasmic volume by (1) formation of “false cells” involving amitotic cytokinesis, (2) “pinching off” of cytoplasm, and (3) dehydration of pollen contents prior to anthesis.
C. SERGIUS ORATA AND THE RHETORIC OF FISHPONDS

C. Sergius Orata was famous for the oysters that he raised on the Lucrine lake, where he also bought and renovated villas, reselling them at a profit. His oysters changed the market for gourmet seafood by creating a new standard in taste around 100 b.c., and he grew rich enough from this trade to enjoy the luxuries that he purveyed. He was a path-breaking entrepreneur in luxury goods, ‘the first Campanian speculator to cater to the leisure of the great grandees’, as D'Arms described him. Instructive as this interpretation is, it does not address the way Orata is presented in the sources. While the ‘facts’ may be reliable enough to establish a biographical sketch, their presentation has another story to tell because Orata is known from rhetorically coloured portraits that reveal less about him as an individual than about elite identity generally. Fish and fishponds were a favourite target of Roman moralizers concerned with elite behaviour and attitudes. Oysters in particular have a long history as a signal luxury. Orata is a prime example in this tradition, and his name became nearly a trope: ‘Orata’, as I will write when I mean this reputation and not the man himself. A cognomen was a sign of family identity, but it also could be used as an indicator of character. Although Kajanto rejects this interpretation of Orata's name because of its association with fish, it is the very association with fish that made his name powerful as a literary example, whether or not it reflects anything about his actual personality. No more can be said about the Orata family reputation because he is the only man with this cognomen in our sources. For Roman moralizers, ‘Orata’ represented the contested relationship between wealth, commerce and status, because his oyster ponds were both a symbolic luxury and a commercial success.
Global optimization for alignment of generalized shapes

In this paper, we introduce a novel algorithm to solve global shape registration problems. We use gray-scale “images” to represent source shapes, and propose a novel two-component Gaussian Mixtures (GM) distance map representation for target shapes. Based on this flexible asymmetric image-based representation, a new energy function is defined. It proves to be a more robust shape dissimilarity metric that can be computed efficiently. Such high efficiency is essential for global optimization methods. We adopt one of them, the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), to effectively estimate the global optimum of the new energy function. Experiments and comparison performed on generalized shape data including continuous shapes, unstructured sparse point sets, and gradient maps, demonstrate the robustness and effectiveness of the algorithm.
A choice reaction time analysis of spatial frequency discrimination.

Simple reaction time to the onset of sinewave gratings was measured as a function of spatial frequency in two observers. These results are compared to the choice reaction time required for the observer to correctly discriminate the spatial frequency of two gratings flashed sequentially. Grating contrast was either 0.75 or 1.5 logarithmic units above the detection threshold for each spatial frequency tested. The spatial phase and contrast of the reference and test gratings were varied from trial to trial by small random amounts to eliminate fixed cues other than the difference frequency. The spatial frequency difference between the reference and test grating was either 0.125, 0.25 or 0.5 octave. As has been earlier reported, simple reaction time increases with increasing spatial frequency. Contrary to this, choice reaction time first increases (up to 4c/deg) and then decreases. We derived the time required by the observer to make a spatial frequency judgement by subtracting the simple reaction time from the choice reaction time for a given spatial frequency and contrast. The maximum decision time occurs in the medium spatial frequency range (between 1 and 4 c/deg), at which frequencies we are most sensitive. The time required to make a correct spatial-frequency discrimination decreases with increasing spatial-frequency difference. The decision time is, however, fairly invariant over a large range of suprathreshold contrast levels. The findings suggest that the decision time for spatial frequency discrimination increases with the number of mechanisms involved.
Integrated System Health Management: Foundational Concepts, Approach, and Implementation

A sound basis to guide the community in the conception and implementation of ISHM (Integrated System Health Management) capability in operational systems was provided. The concept of "ISHM Model of a System" and a related architecture defined as a unique Data, Information, and Knowledge (DIaK) architecture were described. The ISHM architecture is independent of the typical system architecture, which is based on grouping physical elements that are assembled to make up a subsystem, and subsystems combine to form systems, etc. It was emphasized that ISHM capability needs to be implemented first at a low functional capability level (FCL), or limited ability to detect anomalies, diagnose, determine consequences, etc. As algorithms and tools to augment or improve the FCL are identified, they should be incorporated into the system. This means that the architecture, DIaK management, and software, must be modular and standards-based, in order to enable systematic augmentation of FCL (no ad-hoc modifications). A set of technologies (and tools) needed to implement ISHM were described. One essential tool is a software environment to create the ISHM Model. The software environment encapsulates DIaK, and an infrastructure to focus DIaK on determining health (detect anomalies, determine causes, determine effects, and provide integrated awareness of the system to the operator). The environment includes gateways to communicate in accordance to standards, specially the IEEE 1451.1 Standard for Smart Sensors and Actuators.
Segmentation of texture images for solid model definition

The accuracy of a segmentation process in which the neighborhood of a voxel is needed to determine its tissue type is discussed. The accuracy of the placement of the separating surface is emphasized. Some simple stochastic models and probability distributions are used to demonstrate the issues addressed in this research. The determination of the image texture boundary and the choice of image texture model are examined. >
Expanding the definition of class 3 inteins and their proposed phage origin.

Inteins are the protein equivalent of introns. Their protein splicing activity is essential for the host protein's maturation and function. Inteins are grouped into three classes based on sequence signature and splicing mechanism. The sequence signature of the recently characterized class 3 inteins is a noncontiguous Trp-Cys-Thr (WCT) motif and the absence of the standard class 1 Cys1 or Ser1 N-terminal nucleophile. The intein N-terminal Cys1 or Ser1 residue is essential for splicing in class 1 inteins. The mycobacteriophage Catera Gp206, Nocardioides sp. strain JS614 TOPRIM, and Thermobifida fusca YX Tfu2914 inteins have a mixture of class 1 and class 3 motifs. They carry the class 3 Trp-Cys-Thr motif and have the standard class 1 N-terminal Ser1 or Cys1. This study determined which class the mycobacteriophage Catera Gp206 and Nocardioides sp. JS614 TOPRIM inteins belong to based on catalytic mechanism. The mycobacteriophage Catera Gp206 intein (starting with Ser1) is a class 3 intein, and its Ser1 residue is not required for splicing. Based on phylogenetic analysis, we propose that class 3 inteins arose from a single mutated intein that was spread by phage into predominantly helicase genes in various phages and their hosts.
Exploring Cognitive Work within a 911 Dispatch Center: Using Complementary Knowledge Elicitation Techniques

This study evaluates the differences in user information acquired from scenario-based versus non scenario-based knowledge elicitation for the design of 911 dispatch simulations. During the non-scenario condition, participants answered probe questions concerning their work activities and emergency response procedures. During the scenario-based condition, participants were presented with an emergency scenario and described the necessary steps required to respond to the situation. Preliminary analysis implies that information derived from non scenario-based knowledge elicitation may focus more upon the defined protocols of workgroups whereas information gathered from scenario-based knowledge elicitation may be more concerned with procedures and interactions that are unique to a certain workgroup. Results suggest that the use of scenario-based knowledge elicitation is more likely to allow designers to tailor simulations that conform to the unique culture of an emergency dispatch center workgroup than non scen...
In search of the best constraint satisfaction search

We present the results of an empirical study of several constraint satisfaction search algorithms and heuristics. Using a random problem generator that allows us to create instances with given characteristics, we show how the relative performance of various search methods varies with the number of variables, the tightness of the constraints, and the sparseness of the constraint graph. A version of backjumping using a dynamic variable ordering heuristic is shown to be extremely effective on a wide range of problems. We conducted our experiments with problem instances drawn from the 50% satisfiable range.
Epidemiology of Acute Low Back Injury in Employees of a Large Home Improvement Retail Company

Acute low back injuries are described in a cohort of about 31,000 material handlers employed in all Home Depot, Inc., retail stores in California from 1990 through 1994. With over 87 million work hours, incidence density rates, rate ratios, and confidence intervals are given by age, sex, length of employment, and job-lifting requirements. Injuries are further described by lost work days, activity at time of injury, work restrictions, and time frames. The unadjusted low back injury rate per million work hours was 1.6 times higher for men compared with women, and rates were highest for those less than 25 years of age, those with less than 2 years of current job experience, and employees with the greatest materials lifting and handling job requirements. These findings in unadjusted rates and rate ratios persisted when each was adjusted through a Poisson regression model, with the exception of sex. The adjusted risk ratio for males was reversed with significantly higher risk in females when the rate ratio was adjusted for age, lifting intensity, and length of job experience. Injuries were most commonly associated with lifting activities and, while injury occurrence was highest from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rates were greatest during those hours when the store was closed to retail activities. Merchandise stocking that requires heavy and frequent materials handling is done during these hours. Fewer injuries than expected were reported on weekends, days with considerably less materials handling activities.
Highly-integrated CMOS interface circuits for SiPM-based PET imaging systems

Recent developments in the area of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) detectors using Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs) have demonstrated the feasibility of higher resolution PET scanners due to a significant reduction in the detector form factor. The increased detector density requires a proportionally larger number of channels to interface the SiPM array with the backend digital signal processing necessary for eventual image reconstruction. This work presents a CMOS ASIC design for signal reducing readout electronics in support of an 8×8 silicon photomultiplier array. The row/column/diagonal summation circuit significantly reduces the number of required channels, reducing the cost of subsequent digitizing electronics. Current amplifiers are used with a single input from each SiPM cathode. This approach helps to reduce the detector loading, while generating all the necessary row, column and diagonal addressing information. In addition, the single current amplifier used in our Pulse-Positioning architecture facilitates the extraction of pulse timing information. Other components under design at present include a current-mode comparator which enables threshold detection for dark noise current reduction, a transimpedance amplifier and a variable output impedance I/O driver which adapts to a wide range of loading conditions between the ASIC and lines with the off-chip Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs).
Impact of Severe Hypothyroidism on Cyclophosphamide Disposition and Routes of Metabolism and Transport in a Patient with Treatment-Resistant Lupus Nephritis

OBJECTIVETo report what we believe to be the first case of severe hypothyroidism with reduced drug metabolism and transport activity.CASE SUMMARYA 32-year-old African American woman with a history of treatmentresistant lupus nephritis and concurrent hypothyroidism was participating in a clinical study to evaluate cyclophosphamide pharmacokinetics in patients with glomerulonephritis due to lupus nephritis and small-vessel vasculitis. Thyroid-stimulating hormone levels ranged from 60 to 300 μIU/mL, despite high doses of thyroid replacement hormone (levothyroxine 400 μg twice weekly). The pharmacokinetics of the probe drug cocktail (flurbiprofen/fexofenadine) were altered, with formation clearance of flurbiprofen (CYP2C9 function) lower in our patient versus the average value in our study cohort, suggesting a reduction in activity. The area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 hours for fexofenadine (transporter function) was 2-fold higher in our patient compared to that of other study patients. P...
Distillers’ Dried Solubles in Chick Rations Containing Corn and Vegetable Protein Supplements

Abstract A DESCRIPTION of distillery by-products, and a review of the literature concerning the utilization of these by-products in poultry rations, has been given by Synold et al. (1943). Distillers’ dried solubles has been reported to be a good source of riboflavin and other vitamins of the B complex (Bauernfeind et al., 1944). Experiments have shown that the dried solubles can replace dried skimmilk in certain chick growing rations (Sloan, 1941). However, most of the experimental rations used by previous investigators contained meat and bone scraps or other animal protein supplements. These animal protein feeds are known to be relatively rich sources of some B complex vitamins. Therefore, additional experiments utilizing distillers’ solubles in more simplified rations containing corn, soybean oil meal and alfalfa leaf meal, with vitamin and mineral additions, should prove helpful in indicating the supplementary value of this distillery by-product in chick rations. EXPERIMENTAL Feeding experiments were conducted . . .
Preparation of synaptosomes and vesicles with sodium diatrizoate.

— Synaptosomes were prepared from rat brain on a continuous gradient of sodium diatrizoate and compared with synaptosomes obtained on a discontinuous sucrose gradient. The yield of synaptosomal protein using diatrizoate was double that obtained with sucrose. No significant differences in quality between the two preparations were found based on measurement of: β-glucuronidase, RNA polymerase, 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphohydrolase, total and Na+, K+ -ATPase, acetylcholinesterase, lactic acid dehydrogenase, glucose utilization, and serotonin uptake. Electron microscopy showed the vesicles in the diatrizoate synaptosomes to be better preserved. Vesicles prepared on diatrizoate segregated into two distinct bands which differed in electron microscopic appearance and enzyme activity. The less dense vesicles were smaller, had much higher Mg2+ -ATPase activity, and a lower content of acetylcholinesterase than the more dense vesicles. The less dense vesicle preparation was very homogeneous morphologically, free of myelin and mitochondria, and contained occasional organelle fragments and double membrane structures.
Nuclear accumulation of HDAC4 in ATM deficiency promotes neurodegeneration in ataxia telangiectasia

Ataxia telangiectasia is a neurodegenerative disease caused by mutation of the Atm gene. Here we report that ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) deficiency causes nuclear accumulation of histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) in neurons and promotes neurodegeneration. Nuclear HDAC4 binds to chromatin, as well as to myocyte enhancer factor 2A (MEF2A) and cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB), leading to histone deacetylation and altered neuronal gene expression. Blocking either HDAC4 activity or its nuclear accumulation blunts these neurodegenerative changes and rescues several behavioral abnormalities of ATM-deficient mice. Full rescue of the neurodegeneration, however, also requires the presence of HDAC4 in the cytoplasm, suggesting that the ataxia telangiectasia phenotype results both from a loss of cytoplasmic HDAC4 as well as its nuclear accumulation. To remain cytoplasmic, HDAC4 must be phosphorylated. The activity of the HDAC4 phosphatase, protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), is downregulated by ATM-mediated phosphorylation. In ATM deficiency, enhanced PP2A activity leads to HDAC4 dephosphorylation and the nuclear accumulation of HDAC4. Our results define a crucial role of the cellular localization of HDAC4 in the events leading to ataxia telangiectasia neurodegeneration.
Work in progress - Informatics capstones

Informatics is the study of the application of information technology. The focus of studies within an Informatics program is on particular problem domain areas, including scientific domains like biology or chemistry, but also nonscientific domains like music, fine arts, or business. In this paper we describe our experience with the development of a capstone course for undergraduate Informatics students. In particular, we focus on process-related activities we have undertaken to deal with the rapid increase in enrollment for our course, which has grown from 15 students to over 120 students in just 4 years
Killing and Lysis of Gram-negative Bacteria Through the Synergistic Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide, Ascorbic Acid, and Lysozyme

A mixture of hydrogen peroxide and ascorbic acid has been found to generate an antibacterial mechanism which is active against gram-negative bacteria. It results in bacterial death and renders the organism sensitive to lysis by lysozyme. Under the conditions used, horseradish peroxidase did not augment the antibacterial effect. It is suggested that the effector mechanism involves the generation of short-lived free radicals which disturb the integrity of the cell wall. This effect alone might kill bacteria by interfering with selective permeability, but in the presence of lysozyme a further bactericidal activity is accomplished by complete disruption of the cell. It is proposed that a transient antibacterial system such as that described could exist within phagocytic cells. Free radicals would be formed through the interaction of certain oxidizable substances and hydrogen peroxide, which is produced during the enhanced metabolic activity that accompanies ingestion of bacteria. Such a system would help to explain why macrophages, which are apparently devoid of preformed bactericidins, are nonetheless very efficient in killing most phagocytosed bacteria.
Analyzing the Receiver Window Modification Scheme of TCP Queues

Explicit congestion notification (ECN) and active queue management (AQM) Schemes such as random early detection (RED), adaptive random early detection (ARED) and BLUE queues have been proposed for TCP/IP networks to compensate network congestion. However, using ECN requires that ECN be supported by both TCP senders and receivers. This paper presents a novel AQM modification called receiver- window modification (RWM). RWM can be used together with RED, ARED and BLUE queues, to provide congestion avoidance in packet switched networks at ingress and gateway routers. RWM does not require modification to all end system TCP/IP stacks but can be solely implemented in routers. Our RWM scheme helps in reducing the average queue sizes of RED, ARED, BLUE and even ARED-ECN, BLUE-ECN and RED- ECN queues. By reducing the average queue sizes, RWM queues reduce the queuing delay resulting in significant improvements in one-way end-to-end packet delays and dropped packets. It is also shown that the performance of RED- ECN, ARED-ECN and BLUE-ECN queues is heavily dependent on the queues of the downstream routers. RWM modified queues in ingress or gateway routers are not influenced by the number and state of the downstream router as they will piggyback congestion information to the source in the next available acknowledgement packet. We carry out extensive ns2 simulations to show our results and to support our claims.
A Typology of Management Styles in Families with Children with ADHD

Although studies have demonstrated that family dysfunction is common in families with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) children and that family members often suffer serious psychological effects, knowledge is lacking as to how to intervene to help these families manage the negative sequelae common to this disorder. This grounded theory study explored the effects of ADHD on family life and describes four family management styles exhibited in 15 families with children and adolescents with ADHD: the chaotic family, ADHD-controlled family, the surviving family, and the reinvested family. Descriptions and clinical recommendations are provided that addresses each family management type. By describing an initial typology of family management styles in this population, specific health-related issues and family assessment and intervention strategies can be more specifically directed.
A Nucleocapsid Functionality Contained within the Amino Terminus of the Ty1 Protease That Is Distinct and Separable from Proteolytic Activity

Ty1 is the most successful of the five endogenous yeast retrotransposons. The life cycle of Ty1 dictates that a number of nucleocapsid (NC)-facilitated events occur although the protein(s) responsible for these events has not been identified. The positioning of the NC peptide is conserved at the carboxy terminus of the Gag protein among most long terminal repeat (LTR)-containing retroelements. An analogous region of Ty1 that simultaneously encodes part of Gag, protease (PR), and the C-terminal p4 peptide was mutagenized. Some of these mutations result in smaller-than-normal virus-like particles (VLPs). The mutants were also found to impair an NC-like functionality contained within the amino terminus of the protease that is distinct and separable from its proteolytic activity. Remarkably, these mutants have distinct defects in reverse transcription.
Touch Therapies across the Life Span

The Ayur-Veda, the earliest known medical text from India (around 1800 b.c.), lists touch therapy (massage therapy), diet, and exercise as primary healing practices of that time. As Jules Older notes, even the English word shampoo comes from the word champna, which is an ancient Indian word meaning to press (Older, 1982). From early times, massage has been effectively used for many medical and psychiatric conditions, including dropsy; mental illness; torpor; spasm; stomach pain; heart disease; labor pain; delivery; postpartum bleeding; infertility; dysmenorrhea; stimulating the breast for milk; postsurgery to speed healing; as an adjunct to plastic surgery; discomforts and disorders of the joints; to restore movement in strained, fractured, or wounded limbs; lumbago; rheumatic diseases; and aging.
High-Speed DACs and ADCs for Next Generation Flexible Transceivers

We review digital-to-analog and analog-to-digital converters (DACs and ADCs) for next generation flexible transceivers which will grow capacity from 100 Gb/s to 400 Gb/s and 1 Tb/s.
Efficacy and safety of terazosin to improve voiding in spinal cord injury patients.

A total of 28 male spinal cord injury (SCI) patients were enrolled in an open label study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of terazosin to improve voiding. All patients were started on 1 mg dail...
Treatment of non-HIV cryptosporidial diarrhea with azithromycin.

Objective:To report a patient with non-HIV-related cryptosporidial diarrhea who was treated effectively with a regimen of high-dose azithromycin therapy.Case Summary:A 42-year-old immunocompetent man contracted cryptosporidiosis from an ailing calf that he had purchased. He finally was admitted to the hospital because of excessive weight loss and profuse diarrhea. The patient was started on a course of high-dose azithromycin therapy and symptoms resolved within 48 hours. Follow-up stool cultures were negative for the parasite.Discussion:Although usually associated with immunocompromised patients, cryptosporidiosis occurs in immunocompetent hosts in a significant portion of the reported cases each year. Although self-limiting in most cases in this population, the disease can be severe at times and require treatment. Paromomycin therapy has been used in the past with good results. Although macrolides have had erratic effects against this parasite in the past, azithromycin (an azalide) demonstrated good effi...
Identification of Genes Responsible for Natural Variation in Volatile Content Using Next-Generation Sequencing Technology

Identification of the genes controlling the variation of key traits remains a challenge for plant researchers and represents a goal for the development of functional markers and their implementation in marker-assisted crop breeding. As an example we describe the identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that segregate as single locus or mayor quantitative trait loci (QTL) in strawberry F1 segregating populations. Next, we describe a fast and efficient method for RNA extraction in strawberry that yields high-quality RNA for downstream RNA-seq analysis. Finally, two alternative methods for analysis of global transcript expression in contrasting lines will be described in order to identify the candidate gene and genes with differential expression using RNA-seq.
Prediction of the In Vivo Force–Velocity Relationship of Slow Human Skeletal Muscle from Measurements in Myofibers

Direct measurement of the in vivo contractile properties of an individual muscle cannot be made in humans. The objective of this study was to predict the force–velocity (F–V) properties of slow human skeletal muscle for the in vivo temperature of 37 °C from F–V measurements in type I myofibers. Specifically, to quantitatively link myofiber measurements, which must be conducted at relatively low temperatures, to in vivo properties, the temperature-dependence of contractile properties must be modeled. We estimated the kinetic parameters of a crossbridge model within 15–30 °C from F–V measurements recorded in the myofibers of one subject, extrapolated their values at 37 °C, and then predicted the in vivo shortening and lengthening F–V curves. The prediction for maximal shortening velocity was 2.2 ± 0.2 fiber lengths per second and that for saturation force during lengthening was 2.3 ± 0.2 times isometric force. These estimates agree with previously reported in vivo measurements but are substantially different than those used in muscle models for many musculoskeletal simulations. The results from this study indicate that during low levels of muscle activation when slow motor units are primarily recruited, musculoskeletal models should consider having F–V properties that reflect the contractile properties of type I myofibers.
Ontology to Support Multi-Objective Integrated Analyses for Sustainable Construction: A Conceptual Framework

A typical construction project involves many parties with different objectives. Sustainable construction requires multi-dimensional thinking of social, economic and environmental implications. Therefore, a meaningful analysis of sustainable design options depends on a large amount of economic, technical and environmental data from a life cycle perspective. Although a significant amount of effort has already been put into research and development of integrated solutions that address traditional project objectives such as time, cost, safety and quality, environmental impacts represent a new dimension and need to be integrated with other project objectives. This chapter discusses the need for an ontology-based solution to integrate environmental protection considerations into project performance assessment. An ontology representation of integrated time, cost and environmental impacts (TCEI), called TCEI-Ontology, is presented. Ideas of reusing concepts in the Industry Foundation Classes (IFCs) are also discussed. The potential application of TCEIOntology to solve integration issues in time, cost and environmental impact analyses is illustrated with a case study. Further development and tests are needed to determine the feasibility and the strengths and weaknesses of the proposed approach.
Jean Giraudoux (1882–1944)

Jean Giraudoux’s plays in general, and Ondine and The Madwoman of Chaillot in particular, are mythical in dimension; universal in scope. Implicit in his works is the nobility and depth of Greek theatre; the structure, imagistic vocabulary, and rhythmic pace of French classical drama. Theatre, for Giraudoux had a historical and social mission: it was an educational device capable of enhancing the leisure hours of the working population; of encouraging people to think about spiritual as well as existential matters.
Heuristic Usability Evaluation of Wearable Mental State Monitoring Sensors for Healthcare Environments

In recent years, there has been tremendous growth in both the number and diversity of wearable sensors, including sensors for monitoring mental state. Understanding physiological metrics such as fa...
The Schrödinger Wave Equation

The wave function ψ(x) and the energy (E) of the stationary states of a particle may be obtained by solving the Schrodinger time-independent equation. The Schrodinger time-independent equation is used in this chapter to find the wave function and the energy of a particle moving in an infinite and a finite potential well and to study the states of the simple harmonic oscillator. In each case, the possible energies of the particle correspond to those values of ‘E’ for which there are a solution of the Schrodinger time-independent equation that satisfies the boundary conditions. The Schrodinger equation enables to find the de Broglie wave associated with a particle and thus provides a basic tool for understanding microscopic phenomena. The wave theory of matter originally proposed by de Broglie was further developed by Erwin Schrodinger, who suggested that just as ray optics must be replaced by wave optics when light waves are obstructed by small objects, so classical mechanics must be replaced by wave mechanics in dealing with microscopic systems.
Introduction to Numerical Solution of Partial Differential Equations

Many of the fundamental theories of physics and engineering, including the phase-field models, are expressed by means of systems of partial differential equations, PDEs. A PDE is an equation which contains partial derivatives, such as $$ \frac{\partial u}{\partial t}=\frac{\partial^2 u}{\partial {x}^2} $$ in which u is regarded as function of length x and time t. There is no real unified theory for PDEs. They exhibit their own characteristics to express the underlying physical phenomena as accurately as possible. Since PDEs can be hardly solved analytically, their solutions relay on the numerical approaches. A brief of summary of the numerical techniques involving their spatial and temporal discretization is given below. These techniques will be applied to solving the equations of the various phase-field models throughout the book and their detailed descriptions and implementations are given in relevant chapters. There are numerous textbooks also available on the subjects, of which some of them are listed in the references.
A study of the effect of corporate diversification strategy on technological innovation and strength in technology-oriented multinational corporations across countries

This study attempts to empirically explore the strategic impact of corporate diversification on technological innovation and strength measured by investments in research and development (R&D), and number of patents in high-tech industries across several industrialised countries. The major findings of this study demonstrate that corporate diversification strategies in markets and products are significantly related to various indices of technological innovations and economic performance in technology oriented multinational corporations across different countries and industry sectors. One of the significant findings of this study is that diversification strategies can influence a firm's technological capabilities by enhancing the intensity of R&D investments and increasing the number of patents. This study is intends to provide academicians as well as practitioners with more insightful explanation of strategic determinants of technological innovations and strengths in leading technology-oriented multinational corporations (TMCs).
Armored Scales (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) Infesting Hass Avocado Intercepted in Florida and a New Parasitoid-Host Association for Davidsonaspis aguacatae

A new parasitoid-host association between Davidsonaspis aguacatae (Evans, Watson & Miller) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) and Encarsia lounsburyi (Berlese & Paoli) (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) is documented, and an overview of armored scales infesting Hass avocados intercepted in Florida is given. An observation of the occurrence of crawler scales developing inside a parasitized female scale is discussed.
Marital status as a predictor of survival in patients with human papilloma virus-positive oropharyngeal cancer☆☆☆★

Abstract Purpose Determine whether marital status is a significant predictor of survival in human papillomavirus-positive oropharyngeal cancer. Materials and methods A single center retrospective study included patients diagnosed with human papilloma virus-positive oropharyngeal cancer at Boston Medical Center between January 1, 2010 and December 30, 2015, and initiated treatment with curative intent at Boston Medical Center. Demographic data and tumor-related variables were recorded. Univariate analysis was performed using a two-sample t-test, chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test, and Kaplan Meier curves with a log rank test. Multivariate survival analysis was performed using a Cox regression model. Results A total of 65 patients were included in the study with 24 patients described as married and 41 patients described as single. There was no significant difference in most demographic variables or tumor related variables between the two study groups, except single patients were significantly more likely to have government insurance (p = 0.0431). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in 3-year overall survival between married patients and single patients (married = 91.67% vs single = 87.80%; p = 0.6532) or 3-year progression free survival (married = 79.17% vs single = 85.37%; p = 0.8136). After adjusting for confounders including age, sex, race, insurance type, smoking status, treatment, and AJCC combined pathologic stage, marital status was not a significant predictor of survival [HR = 0.903; 95% CI (0.126,6.489); p = 0.9192]. Conclusions Although previous literature has demonstrated that married patients with head and neck cancer have a survival benefit compared to single patients with head and neck cancer, we were unable to demonstrate the same survival benefit in a cohort of patients with human papilloma virus-positive oropharyngeal cancer.
Generalised gossip-based subgradient method for distributed optimisation

ABSTRACTThis paper presents a generalised time-synchronous gossip-based algorithm for solving distributed optimisation problems associated with multi-agent networked systems. The proposed algorithm presents a generalisation such that the optimisation process can operate in the entire spectrum from ‘complete consensus’ to ‘complete disagreement’. A user-defined control parameter θ is identified for controlling such tradeoff as well as the temporal convergence properties. We formulate the algorithm based upon generalised time-synchronous gossip algorithm and subgradient method and provide analytical results for first and second moment convergence analysis. The proposed algorithm also provides a convergence rate estimate of O(1/m) in the number of iterations m when the step size is constant. We consider the effect of noise in networked systems from the perspectives of modelling uncertainty and measurement noise in subgradient estimation process and communication among agents, respectively. A numerical case s...
Medium-term fiscal multipliers during protracted economic contractions

Abstract The paper examines the consequences of fiscal consolidation in times of persistently low growth and high unemployment by estimating medium-term fiscal multipliers during protracted economic contractions in a sample of 17 OECD countries. Based on Jorda’s (2005) local projection methodology, we find that cumulative fiscal multipliers related to output, employment and unemployment at five-year horizons are significantly above one during protracted contractions. These results suggest that medium-term fiscal consolidation plans to reduce public debt burdens may lead to hysteresis effects and should proceed gradually if economic activity remains below trend for a prolonged period.
Social Construction and the Criminalization of Identity: State-Sanctioned Oppression and an Unethical Administration

What is considered a crime and who is considered a criminal is largely based on social constructions that have a longstanding presence in U.S. history. In the United States, the social construction...
The validity of self-similarity assumptions when modelling internet traffic on broadband networks

Self-similarity is a major assumption used in the modelling and characterization of Internet traffic. This paper examines the role of self-similarity in the development of bandwidth capacity modelling techniques and then presents the results of a case study analyzing Internet traffic on a global broadband network. Most modelling techniques of today express network traffic as a function of fractal Browning Motion, as proposed by Ilkka Norros [1], which are based on assumptions that the traffic is self-similar and long range dependant. This study analyzed the network traffic characteristics of airline users on an example broadband network. The data was collected from four different gateways at geographically diverse locations. Collected data was analyzed for self-similarity and the applicability of fractal Browning motion. A distinct trend away from self-similarity was observed and probable causes are postulated.
Controlled Preparation of Monodisperse Bimetallic Pd-Au Colloids with three Different Microstructures and their use in Preparing Supported Bimetallic Catalysts

Bimetallic monodisperse Pd-Au particles with three different microstructures have been reproducibly prepared, in pure form, as colloidal sols. The three microstructures constitute a complete set for the bimetallic Pd-Au system:1. alloyed Pd-Au particles2. layered, Au-coated Pd particles3. layered, Pd-coated Au particlesThis is the first report of microstructures 1 and 3. The three microstructures have been unambiguously characterized using high resolution analytical electron microscopy. (change-para-here) Supported Pd-Au/C catalysts have been prepared by adsorption of the colloidal Pd-Au particles onto carbon supports. Characterization of the catalysts with AEM indicates the Pd-Au particles are deposited without change of microstructure onto the support. Thus, supported bimetallic catalysts have been prepared with a unique degree of control over metals microstructure.
Neuromagnetic Localization of Late Pain-Related Field Sources

Since the early work of Chatrian et al. (1974), pain-related evoked potentials (PEPs) have been extensively investigated as possible physiological correlates of laboratory pain (see Chapman et al. 1979). The utility of PEPs is largely based upon studies which show that the amplitudes of the late potentials often correlate well with stimulus intensity and subjective report, and exhibit a consistent diminution when analgesic or behavioral pain control methods are introduced. It is also notable that for most types of stimulation, the dominant components of the evoked response occur at latencies near 150 and 250 ms (N150-P250), with largest amplitudes measured at the vertex. Hence, many studies have focussed specifically upon the N150-P250 as a likely correlate of laboratory pain.
Environmental inefficiency and bond credit rating

Abstract This study examines the impact of a firm’s polluting activities (measured as environmental inefficiency) on the firm’s bond credit rating. We posit that firms with excessive polluting activities (i.e., a high level of environmental inefficiency) receive low bond ratings because prior research links pollution reduction to better firm performance and outcomes. Using a 29-year panel sample with 4969 firm-year observations (representing 310 unique firms) from 1987 to 2015, we find a significant negative relation between environmental inefficiency and bond ratings. Our results still hold after a battery of robustness checks. In addition, we find that our results are largely driven by firms that are not near a broad bond rating change (i.e., firms without a plus or minus specification in their bond ratings).
Financial Statement and Ratio Analysis: A Classroom Perspective

Earnings yield theory argues that current stock prices reflect the present value of all expected future payouts. Ultimate aim of a company is to generate income. Items in financial statements therefore show, among others, how likely is it for a company to turn a positive income. Investors pay close attention to any changes in financial statements and reflect these changes in stock prices. This study provides a summary of the theory about investor reaction to changes in financial statements. The main aim of this study is to provide the theory and its application with a classroom approach with current and actual data. A software command is provided to download and to process the relevant data.
It Is Not about the Assay: Preanalytical Screening Is the Key to Reducing Clostridioides difficile Infection.

Clostridioides difficile (formerly Clostridium difficile) infection (CDI) is one of the most common health care-associated infections in the United States, resulting in significant morbidity, deaths, and economic burdens ([1][1]). Whether a C. difficile nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) alone
Relativistic hydrodynamic fluctuations

We present a general systematic formalism for describing dynamics of fluctuations in an arbitrary relativistic hydrodynamic flow, including their feedback (known as long-time hydrodynamic tails). The fluctuations are described by two-point equal-time correlation functions. We introduce a definition of equal time in a situation where the local rest frame is determined by the local flow velocity and a method of taking derivatives and Wigner transforms of such equal-time correlation functions, which we call confluent. We find that not only do the equations for confluent Wigner functions resemble kinetic equations but also the kinetic equation for phonons propagating on an arbitrary background nontrivially matches the equations for Wigner functions, including relativistic inertial and Coriolis forces due to acceleration and vorticity of the flow. We also describe the procedure of renormalization of short-distance singularities which eliminates cutoff dependence, allowing efficient numerical implementation of these equations.
"It Led to Great Advances in Science": What Teacher Candidates Know about the Holocaust.

AbstractA quarter of a century has passed since lawmakers enacted the New Jersey Holocaust education mandate, and it seems responsible and timely to ask if it, the original Holocaust education mand...
The Utility of Stable and Radioisotopes in Fish Tissues as Biogeochemical Tracers of Marine Oil Spill Food Web Effects

Direct exposure to petroleum compounds was widely reported for a variety of taxa following the DWH. Evidence of exposure ranged from oiling of skin, shells, or feathers, depending on the taxa, to observation of ingested oil in small translucent, invertebrates, to biomarkers of petroleum compounds within an organism’s tissues, such as PAHs in the hepatopancreas of invertebrates or the liver of fishes, or metabolic products of PAH catabolism in the bile of various vertebrate taxa. Development of natural biogeochemical tracers to examine indirect effects, especially over long (months to years) time scales, can be much more problematic. In this chapter, we describe the utility of employing stable isotopes and radioisotopes to 1) examine whether food web effects can be inferred from shifts in stable isotope values measured in vertebrate taxa; 2) examine the assimilation and trophic transfer of petrocarbon in marine food webs; and, 3) serve as long-term biogeochemical tracers either of petrocarbon assimilation or trophic shifts that are indicative of food web effects of marine oil spills. Data and analyses are largely drawn from DWH-related studies but with broader implications to marine oil spills in general.