cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A level set approach for optimal design of smart energy harvesters

Abstract The proliferation of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS), portable electronics and wireless sensing networks has raised the need for a new class of devices with self-powering capabilities. Vibration-based piezoelectric energy harvesters provide a very promising solution, as a result of their capability of converting mechanical energy into electrical energy through the direct piezoelectric effect. However, the identification of fast, accurate methods and rational criteria for the design of piezoelectric energy harvesting devices still poses a challenge. In this work, a level set-based topology optimization approach is proposed to synthesize mechanical energy harvesting devices for self-powered micro systems. The energy harvester design problem is reformulated as a variational problem based on the concept of topology optimization, where the optimal geometry is sought by maximizing the energy conversion efficiency of the device. To ensure computational efficiency, the shape gradient of the energy conversion efficiency is analytically derived using the material time derivative approach and the adjoint variable method. A design velocity field is then constructed using the steepest descent method, which is further integrated into level set methods. The reconciled level set (RLS) method is employed to solve multi-material shape and topology optimization problems, using the Merriman–Bence–Osher (MBO) operator. Designs with both single and multiple materials are presented, which constitute improvements with respect to existing energy harvesting designs.
DIFFERENTIATION OF HEMOLYTIC STREPTOCOCCI OF HUMAN AND OF DAIRY ORIGIN BY METHYLENE BLUE TOLERANCE AND FINAL ACIDITY

A grouping of 138 strains of hemolytic streptococci based on differences in dye-sensitiveness and in final hydrogen-ion concentration of cultures is presented. Three groups are distinguished; (1) human parasitic strains, defined by a final pH range of 5.2 to 5.0 and by failure to reduce methylene blue (1:5000) in milk, (2) bovine strains parasitic in the udder, characterized by a final pH range of 4.5 to 4.2 and by failure to reduce methylene blue (1:5000) in milk, (3) saprophytic strains, characterized by a final pH range of 4.5 to 4.2 and by ability to reduce methylene blue. Methylene blue was bactericidal for the strains of hemolytic streptococci that fail to reduce it, but neither bacteriostatic nor bactericidal for the strains that caused its reduction.
Using the H-index to Rank Influential Information Scientists

The authors apply a new bibliometric measure, the h-index (Hirsch, 2005), to the literature of information science. Faculty rankings based on raw citation counts are compared with those based on h-counts. There is a strong positive correlation between the two sets of rankings. It is shown how the h-index can be used to express the broad impact of a scholar's research output over time in more nuanced fashion than straight citation counts.
VI. Implementing indirect needs-assessment models for planning state mental health and substance abuse services☆☆☆

Abstract This article addresses several services-planning issues necessary for successful implementation of an indirect needs-assessment model to estimate geographic differences in the prevalence of needs for alcohol, drug abuse, and mental health (ADM) services. These include: (1) definition and selection of appropriate ADM services need categories as “target groups”, (2) selection of a model that can validly estimate the prevalence of those need categories, and (3) understanding the data requirements, calculation procedures, and limitations on the generalizability of selected models. A strategy for making the best possible use of indirect needs-assessment models, additional research findings to buttress the validity of selected models, and procedures for model implementation in a state are also presented. A key to effective use of such procedures is clear identification of the target groups to be estimated, ranging from the broadest and most prevalent to highly specialized, low-prevalence need groups. Because predictive models are weaker with narrowly defined, low-prevalence need categories than with larger ones, and because of the importance of presenting a full picture of the ADM needs of a state, it is recommended that states employ a series of “nested” target groups that represent the full range of population needs. While the originally proposed models studied here would be useful with higher-prevalence need categories, only two newly developed models that involve the poverty social indicator could successfully predict to low-prevalence surveyed “chronic mental illness” in this study. Enough is now known about indirect needs-assessment models to warrant implementation by states of one of the better-performing models. The results presented strongly support the validity and potential utility of specific models for estimating varieties of need for ADM services at both state and subarea levels.
Digoxin Metabolism in Obesity

A single intravenous dose of tritiated digoxin was given to five obese patients before and after a mean loss of 102 pounds in weight. There were no significant differences in the blood concentrations of digoxin before and after the weight reduction. Likewise, there were no significant differences in the blood concentrations of digoxin when these data were corrected for fat-free body weight. These findings are consistent with the thesis that fat-free body weight is a more important determinant of the blood concentration of digoxin than total body weight is. The clinical implication of this study is that digoxin dosage may be erroneously high if calculated on the basis of total body weight for obese individuals.
Effect of the Support on the Electronic Structure of Au Nanoparticles Supported on Transition Metal Carbides: Choice of the Best Substrate for Au Activation

Periodic density functional theory calculations on large supercells have been carried out to investigate the atomic and electronic structure of small gold particles (Au2, Au4, Au9, Au13, and Au14) supported on the (001) surface of various transition metal carbides (TiC, ZrC, VC, and δ-MoC). All the supported Au particles exhibited strong interactions with the C sites of the metal−carbide surfaces. Nevertheless, the interactions between adsorbed Au atoms were attractive, thus ultimately facilitating nucleation of two- or three-dimensional metal particles. The presence of the underlying carbide strongly modified the electronic structure and charge density of the supported metal particles resulting in the experimentally proven improved catalytic performance of the resulting systems as compared with cases where the support is an oxide. The electronic perturbations were quite strong for two-dimensional gold particles directly in contact with the carbide substrates and gradually decreased for two-layer and thre...
The learning complexity of smooth functions of a single variable

We study the on-line learning of classes of functions of a single real variable formed through bounds on various norms of functions' derivatives. We determine the best bounds obtainable on the worst-case sum of squared errors (also “absolute” errors) for several such classes.
An immunological model for detecting bot activities

We develop a hierarchical immunological model to detect bot activities in a computer network. In the proposed model antibody (detector)-antigen (foreign object) reactions are defined using negative selection based approach and negative systems-properties are defined by various temporal as well as non-temporal systems features. Theory of sequential hypothesis testing has been used in the literature for identifying spatial-temporal correlations among malicious remote hosts and among the bots within a botnet. We use it for combining multiple immunocomputing based decisions too. Negative selection based approach defines a self and helps identifying non-selves. We define non-selves with respect to various systems characteristics and then use different combinations of non-selves to design bot detectors. Each detector operates at the client sites of the network under surveillance. A match with any of the detectors suggests presence of a bot. Preliminary results suggest that the proposed model based solutions can improve the identification of bot activities.
On the Frictional Behavior of an Incipient-Sliding Contact of Sphere-on-Flat With High Normal Loads

Levinson et al [1] present experimental results that show a steep reduction in the static coefficient of friction of a dry sphere-on-flat contact as the normal load increases. The experiments cover a range of loading conditions from elastic contact to contact with significant plastic deformation. A theoretical analysis is carried out in this study using a contact model of an elastic-plastic sphere on a rigid flat. The shear strength of the contact interface is assumed to be proportional to the contact pressure until it reaches a limiting value that is below the bulk shear strength of the sphere. The theory predicts a friction behavior that is consistent with that from the experimental results in [1] in all key aspects. The analysis reveals that a relatively low limiting shear strength in the contact interface is likely the key factor leading to the dramatic reduction in the friction coefficient and the negligible junction growth obtained in the experiments.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Standardized charts for cost-benefit analysis of biogas systems: Case study in Jordan

Abstract This paper establishes a standardization procedure in which results are presented in ready-to-use charts for the economic evaluation of biogas plants. It is hoped this work will alleviate controversial reports on cost-effectiveness of biogas systems. Also, it is found that these systems are the most economic among renewable energy systems using a standardized procedure for their comparison augmented by the generated spider diagrams wherein most probable costing production values for each system are directly compared.
Postoperative Considerations of Neuraxial Anesthesia

Spinal and epidural anesthesia and analgesia, and the combination of the two techniques, have been excellent choices for the management of certain surgical procedures and continue to grow in popularity. The demand for increased patient mobility and quicker discharge for both inpatients and outpatients lends itself to the benefits of regional anesthesia. A neuraxial block is indicated for any surgical procedure in which the appropriate sensory level can be accomplished without any adverse outcome. This article outlines the indications and contraindications for these techniques.
Preclinical experiments on cognition enhancement in Alzheimer's disease: Drugs affecting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) play a role in a variety of diseases of the central nervous system including Alzheimer's disease (AD). There is currently great interest in evaluating AD- related nAChR changes, and pharmacological treatment of nAChR deficits is a promising therapy. In AD, a7 nAChRs remain relatively stable in contrast to a4b2 nAChRs that are lost in substantial numbers. However, a7 nAChRs may be functionally impaired in AD because b-amyloid, a major neuropathology in AD, blocks a4b2 and a7 nAChRs. Agonists selective to a 7o ra4b2 nAChRs are neuroprotective against b-amyloid. A preclinical test of cognition-enhancing drugs affecting nAChRs is eyeblink classical conditioning. This task is severely impaired in human probable AD patients and is impaired by antagonists to nAChRs. Three drugs with different mechanisms of action on nAChRs (partial a7 nAChR agonism (GTS- 21), acetylcholinesterase inhibition and allosteric modulation (galantamine), nootropic activation (nefiracetam)) were tested in young and older rabbits using eyeblink classical conditioning. All three drugs ameliorated learning and memory impairments in older rabbits and reversed an antagonist to nAChRs in young rabbits. Galantamine, with its allosteric modulatory action, was the only drug that facilitated learning in young rabbits. On the basis of efficacy of these drugs that affect nAChRs in preclinical studies and in Phase I (GTS-21), Phase II (nefiracetam), or Phase III (galantamine) clinical trials, exploration of nAChRs as targets for therapeutic intervention via a number of different pathways seems warranted. Drug Dev. Res. 56:335-346, 2002. � c 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Family Size and Learning Readiness Profiles of Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Preschool Whites.

Summary Preschool readiness measures were secured on 50 pairs of disadvantaged two-to three-year-old lower SES white children who represented large and small families, to determine the impact of family size on readiness profiles. The findings reveal that children from small families secured higher scores on all nine skill areas of the Iowa Test of Preschool Development than children from large families. However, only in Expressive Language were the differences of statistical significance. The findings were reviewed in the context of other research which suggests that poor children may experience greater difficulty on oral language tasks than is the case on measures that emphasize receptive language. It is suggested that replication studies are needed to better assess the long-term social and educational implication of the findings.
Combining Multiobjective Optimization and Cluster Analysis to Study Vocal Fold Functional Morphology

Morphological design and the relationship between form and function have great influence on the functionality of a biological organ. However, the simultaneous investigation of morphological diversity and function is difficult in complex natural systems. We have developed a multiobjective optimization (MOO) approach in association with cluster analysis to study the form-function relation in vocal folds. An evolutionary algorithm (NSGA-II) was used to integrate MOO with an existing finite element model of the laryngeal sound source. Vocal fold morphology parameters served as decision variables and acoustic requirements (fundamental frequency, sound pressure level) as objective functions. A two-layer and a three-layer vocal fold configuration were explored to produce the targeted acoustic requirements. The mutation and crossover parameters of the NSGA-II algorithm were chosen to maximize a hypervolume indicator. The results were expressed using cluster analysis and were validated against a brute force method. Results from the MOO and the brute force approaches were comparable. The MOO approach demonstrated greater resolution in the exploration of the morphological space. In association with cluster analysis, MOO can efficiently explore vocal fold functional morphology.
Correction for Resolution Nonuniformities Caused by Anode Angulation in Computed Tomography

Most X-ray tubes comprise a rotating anode that is bombarded with electrons to produce X-rays. A substantial amount of heat is generated, and to increase the area of the anode exposed to the electrons, without increasing the apparent size of the focal spot, the focal track of the anode is generally beveled with a very shallow angle (typically 5deg-7deg in a computed tomography (CT) tube). Due to the line focus principle, this allows a fairly large area of the focal track to be exposed to electrons while retaining a fairly small effective projected focal spot. One side effect of anode angulation is that the focal spot appears different from different positions in the detector array; the effective focal spot size at a constant distance from the tube will be larger for a peripheral detector channel than for a central one. These differences in the effective size of the focal spot across the fleld-of-view lead to worse resolution in the periphery than in the center of reconstructed images. In this work we describe a method for achieving more uniform resolution in fanbeam CT images by correcting for these focal spot angulation effects. We do so by modeling the effects as a series of local blurrings in the space of transmitted CT intensities and determining the effective coefficients of the corresponding discrete convolutions. The effect of these blurrings can then be compensated for in the sinogram domain through the use of a penalized-likelihood sinogram restoration model we have recently developed.
EPR spectrum of the ion pair [CR(CO)5−]2 in irradiated crystals of PPh4+ HCr(CO)5−†

UV-irradiated crystals of PPh4+HCr(CO)5− exhibit anisotropic EPR spectra at room temperature and below which are characteristic of the presence of an electronic triplet (S = 1). From measurements of the angular dependence of the spectrum it is established that the carrier has axial symmetry with g‖ = 2.0019, g⟂ = 2.0202, |D| = 163.0 MHz, and with the unique direction parallel to the c axis of the tetragonal (P4/n) crystal. The magnitudes of the zero-field parameter D and the g-tensor components show that the carrier is a biradical consisting of a pair of Cr(CO)5− radicals separated approximately by one unit cell length along c. A weak single-line spectrum which accompanies the triplet spectrum has the identical g-tensor, and is assigned to the Cr(CO)5− radical itself. A third spectrum with the same g-tensor, which is present in γ-irradiated crystals only, is ascribed to another electronic triplet with |D| = 84 and E ≈ 0 MHz. It is associated with a second pair of exchange-coupled Cr(CO)5− radicals whose interionic axis lies skew in the crystal axis system. Measurements of the signal intensities as a function of temperature show that both biradicals have singlet ground states and small isotropic exchange parameters, J ≈ 35 and 11 cm−1, respectively.
Direct and near-real-time determination of lead, manganese and mercury in laboratory air by electrostatic precipitation-atomic absorption spectrometry

Abstract The direct and near-real-time determination of lead, manganese and mercury in laboratory air by electrostatic precipitation-atomic absorption spectrometry is reported. Background levels in the low-to-sub ng m −3 range were found, which increased by up to two orders of magnitude if the air was disturbed. Detection limits were sub-ng m −3 and a linear relationship between sampling time and atomic absorption signal was obtained if the laboratory air sampled was undisturbed or homogeneous.
Interfacial Recombination Processes in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells and Methods To Passivate the Interfaces

Conventional dye-sensitized solar cells function efficiently only with a single redox couple, I-/I2, because of the unusually slow kinetics for I2 reduction on SnO2 and TiO2 surfaces. When faster redox couples such as ferrocene/ferrocenium are employed, the rapid interfacial recombination of photoinjected electrons with the oxidized half of the redox couple eliminates the photovoltaic effect. To make use of other, perhaps more appropriate, redox couples in these cells, the interfacial recombination processes must be understood and controlled. Charge recombination at the SnO2/solution interface is clearly distinguishable from recombination at the nanoporous TiO2/solution interface. Dark current measurements probe mainly the former reaction, although the latter may be the dominant recombination mechanism under illumination. We introduce two methods for passivating the interfaces that decrease the recombination rates by orders of magnitude. One method involves electropolymerization of an insulating film of p...
A memory-efficient algorithm for network echo cancellation in VoIP systems

In recent years, considerable interest has been focused on voice-over-IP (VoIP) systems. VoIP media gateways implement voice and packet processing for hundreds of channels. One of the limiting factors in such high channel-density voice processing applications is the memory requirement. A substantial amount of memory is used to store the coefficients of the network echo canceller. This paper describes a new algorithm that reduces the memory requirements for echo cancellation by a factor of 2 to 4. When the new memory reduction algorithm is combined with standard NLMS, it also provides faster convergence rate, and better echo path tracking than the standard NLMS algorithm.
Impact of PV on distribution protection system

This paper investigates the impacts of PV interconnection on the protection systems of a distribution network, especially when power flow is reversed in high penetration scenarios. A Florida based substation and its six-feeders were selected for the study. The system was slightly modified to make it a notional system that still closely represents the actual system behavior from the point of view of system protection. The main modification is in the representations of loads, where all the loads were represented by fewer aggregated loads on each feeder. One of the feeders is 9 miles long and has a 12.6 MW (AC) PV plant connected to the primary side of the feeder at a distance of 4.8 miles from the substation. The feeder has an average load of approximately 11 MVA that makes it a contender for a high penetration (more than 100%) feeder when PV reaches its peak generation. The model of the entire substation, its feeders and protection system has been built using a high fidelity transient simulation tool RSCAD. Initial simulation results indicate that if protection devices are coordinated properly, a reverse power flow does not create any nuisance trip or malfunction of the protection system. However, based on the location of the PV plant with respect to the fault, slight change in the trip time of the time-overcurrent relays was observed.
Regional structure and kinematic history of the Sevier fold-and-thrust belt, central Utah: Discussion

[DeCelles and Coogan (2006)][1] summarize the structure and evolution of the Late Jurassic to Paleocene Sevier orogenic belt in central Utah, inferring at least 220 km of crustal shortening on the basis of a regional balanced cross section. Difficulties arise in an otherwise excellent synthesis in
Prehistoric Political Change on the Southeast Mesoamerican Periphery

Recent archaeological settlement pattern research in the 550 sq km Comayagua Valley in central Honduras has documented considerable variation in the political structure of one ranked society over a 2,500-year period of prehistory. Data presented suggest that this Lenca and proto-Lenca culture group underwent at least five major political restructurings during this time as a response to the local, regional, and interregional political climate on the southeast Mesoamerican periphery. Such variability calls into question traditional models postulating a lack of complexity or adaptive flexibility for indigenous cultures of lower Central America.
"I'm not prejudiced, but . . .": compensatory egalitarianism in the 2008 Democratic presidential primary

The historic 2008 Democratic presidential primary race between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton posed a difficult choice for egalitarian White voters, and many commentators speculated that the election outcome would reflect pitting the effects of racism against sexism (Steinem, 2008). Because self-reported prejudices may be untrustworthy, we used the Implicit Association Test (IAT) to assess White adults' (1) condemnation of prejudices, and (2) attitudes toward the candidates in relation to voting decisions, as part of an online survey. Results supported the proposed compensatory egalitarianism process, such that Whites' voting choice was consistent with their implicit candidate preference, but in an effort to remain egalitarian, participants compensated for this preference by automatically condemning prejudice toward the other candidate's group. Additional findings showed that this process was moderated by participants' ethnicity and level of prejudice, as expected. Specifically, compensatory egalitarianism occurred primarily among Whites and individuals low in explicit prejudice. Implications for candidate support, aversive racism theory, and implicit compensation processes are discussed. Language: en
Integrative Toxicopathological Evaluation of Aflatoxin B1 Exposure in F344 Rats

In this study, male F344 rats were orally exposed to a single dose of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) at 0, 50, 250, or 1,000 mg/kg body weight (BW) or repeated dose of 0, 5, 10, 25, or 75 mg/kg BW for up to 5 weeks. Biochemical and histological changes were assessed together with the formation of AFB1-lysine adduct (AFB-Lys) and liver foci positive for placental form glutathione S transferase (GST-P þ ). In single-dose protocol, serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) showed dose-related elevation, with maximal changes observed (>100-fold) at day 3 after treatment. Animals that received 250 mg/kg AFB1 showed concurrent bile duct proliferation, necrosis, and GSTP þ hepatocytes at 3 day, followed by liver GST-P þ foci appearance at 1 week. In repeated-dose protocol, bile duct proliferation and liver GST-P þ foci co-occurred after 3-week exposure to 75 mg/kg AFB1, followed by proliferation foci formation after 4 week and dramatic ALT, AST, and CK elevations after 5 weeks. Liver GST-P þ foci were induced temporally and in a dose-related manner. Serum AFB-Lys increased temporally at low doses (5–25 mg/kg), and reached the maximum after 2-week exposure at 75 mg/kg. This integrative study demonstrated that liver GST-P þ cells and foci are sensitive biomarkers for AFB1 toxic effect and correlated with bile duct proliferation and biochemical alterations in F344 rats.
Second messenger pas de deux: the coordinated dance between calcium and cAMP

Dynamic calcium signaling is a well-established precept in biology. Different cell types exhibit spontaneous as well as stimulus-triggered transient changes in the concentration of intracellular calcium. Does this behavior extend to other second messengers? Optical dissection of various signal transduction pathways with fluorescent reporter molecules that enable visualization of changes in concentration of other second messengers is well under way. Recent research using technologically refined probes provides improved temporal and spatial resolution of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) dynamics to generate insights into the bidirectional interplay between intracellular fluctuations of cAMP and calcium. cAMP oscillations are generated in response to hormones, and cells can recognize and differentially respond to transient versus sustained changes in this second messenger. Second messenger reporters are now available to track multiple players and so provide a dynamic picture of signaling networks.
One-year health care costs associated with delirium in the elderly population.

BACKGROUND: While delirium has been increasingly recognized as a serious and potentially preventable condition, its long-term implications are not well understood. This study determined the total 1-year health care costs associated with delirium. METHODS: Hospitalized patients aged 70 years and older who participated in a previous controlled clinical trial of a delirium prevention intervention at an academic medical center between 1995 and 1998 were followed up for 1 year after discharge. Total inflation-adjusted health care costs, calculated as either reimbursed amounts or hospital charges converted to costs, were computed by means of data from Medicare administrative files, hospital billing records, and the Connecticut Long-term Care Registry. Regression models were used to determine costs associated with delirium after adjusting for patient sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. RESULTS: During the index hospitalization, 109 patients (13.0%) developed delirium while 732 did not. Patients with delirium had significantly higher unadjusted health care costs and survived fewer days. After adjusting for pertinent demographic and clinical characteristics, average costs per day survived among patients with delirium were more than 2(1/2) times the costs among patients without delirium. Total cost estimates attributable to delirium ranged from $16 303 to $64 421 per patient, implying that the national burden of delirium on the health care system ranges from $38 billion to $152 billion each year. CONCLUSIONS: The economic impact of delirium is substantial, rivaling the health care costs of falls and diabetes mellitus. These results highlight the need for increased efforts to mitigate this clinically significant and costly disorder. Language: en
Crossing conjugate normal faults

Normal faults commonly develop in two oppositely dipping sets having dihedral angles of around 60o, collectively referred to as conjugate normal faults. Conjugate normal faults form at a range of scales from cm to km. Where conjugate normal faults cross each other, the faults are commonly interpreted to accommodate extension by simultaneous slip on the crossing faults. Using two-dimensional geometric modeling we show that simultaneous slip on crossing conjugate normal faults requires loss, gain, or localized redistribution of cross-sectional area. In contrast, alternating sequential slip on the crossing faults can produce crossing fault patterns without area modification in cross section. Natural examples of crossing conjugate normal faults from the Volcanic Tableland (Owens Valley, California), Bare Mountain (Nevada), and the Balcones fault zone (Texas) all indicate formation by sequential rather than simultaneous slip. We conclude that truly simultaneous activity of crossing normal faults is likely to be limited to extremely small displacements due to rate-limiting area change processes. If their associated movement is truly simultaneous, crossing normal faults are virtually unrestorable and should show evidence of significant cross-sectional area change (e.g., area increase may be indicated by salt intrusion along fault, area decrease by localized dissolution or mechanical compaction may be indicated by extreme displacement gradients at fault tips). In the absence of such evidence, even the most complicated crossing fault pattern should be restorable by sequentially working backward through the faulting sequence. In common with other structures that affect permeability and that cross at high angles, conjugate normal fault systems are likely to produce bulk permeability anisotropy in reservoir rocks that can be approximated by a prolate (elongate) permeability ellipsoid, with greatest permeability parallel with the line of intersection. Characterization of the fault pattern in a faulted reservoir provides the basis for interpreting the bulk permeability anisotropy in the reservoir, an important step in optimizing well placement. (Begin page 1544)
A Fast Spherical Filter with Uniform Resolution

This paper introduces a fast algorithm for obtaining a uniform resolution representation of a function known at a latitude?longitude grid on the surface of a sphere, equivalent to a triangular, isotropic truncation of the spherical harmonic coefficients for the function. The proposedspectral truncation method,which is based on the fast multipole method and the fast Fourier transform, projects the function to a space with uniform resolution while avoiding surface harmonic transformations. The method requiresO(N2logN) operations forO(N2) grid points, as opposed toO(N3) operations for the standard spectral transform method, providing a reduced-complexity spectral method obviating the pole problem in the integration of time-dependent partial differential equations on the sphere. The filter's performance is demonstrated with numerical examples.
Formulating adaptive radiation therapy (ART) treatment planning into a closed-loop control framework*

While ART has been studied for years, the specific quantitative implementation details have not. In order for this new scheme of radiation therapy (RT) to reach its potential, an effective ART treatment planning strategy capable of taking into account the dose delivery history and the patient's on-treatment geometric model must be in place. This paper performs a theoretical study of dynamic closed-loop control algorithms for ART and compares their utility with data from phantom and clinical cases. We developed two classes of algorithms: those Adapting to Changing Geometry and those Adapting to Geometry and Delivered Dose. The former class takes into account organ deformations found just before treatment. The latter class optimizes the dose distribution accumulated over the entire course of treatment by adapting at each fraction, not only to the information just before treatment about organ deformations but also to the dose delivery history. We showcase two algorithms in the class of those Adapting to Geometry and Delivered Dose. A comparison of the approaches indicates that certain closed-loop ART algorithms may significantly improve the current practice. We anticipate that improvements in imaging, dose verification and reporting will further increase the importance of adaptive algorithms.
Reconstitution of bacterial autotransporter assembly using purified components

Autotransporters are a superfamily of bacterial virulence factors consisting of an N-terminal extracellular ('passenger') domain and a C-terminal β barrel ('β') domain that resides in the outer membrane (OM). The mechanism by which the passenger domain is secreted is poorly understood. Here we show that a conserved OM protein insertase (the Bam complex) and a molecular chaperone (SurA) are both necessary and sufficient to promote the complete assembly of the Escherichia coli O157:H7 autotransporter EspP in vitro. Our results indicate that the membrane integration of the β domain is the rate-limiting step in autotransporter assembly and that passenger domain translocation does not require the input of external energy. Furthermore, experiments using nanodiscs strongly suggest that autotransporter assembly is catalyzed by a single copy of the Bam complex. Finally, we describe a method to purify a highly active form of the Bam complex that should facilitate the elucidation of its function.
Loop-dipole antenna modeling using the FEKO code

A study was done to optimize the design of a loop dipole antenna over a broad frequency range (0.5 - 2 GHz) using the FEKO method of moments code. Variations to the design were modeled as well as the performance of the antenna in an array. The modeling was compared to anechoic chamber data. The fields generated by the FEKO code were also input to a GTD (geometric theory of diffraction) code as an antenna pattern to model the multipath effects caused by mounting the antenna onto an aircraft.
Maternal empathy, self-confidence, and stress as antecedents of preschool children's behavior problems.

PURPOSE. To test psychosocial antecedents (maternal stress, self-confidence, and empathy) of preschoolers’ behavior problems. DESIGN AND METHODS. One hundred and twenty-two postpartum mothers completed a 24-month longitudinal mail survey. A structural equation model that included empathy was tested. RESULTS. Stress, but not maternal self-confidence or empathy, was directly related to child behavior problems (t = 1.98, p = .05). Maternal empathy in combination with self-confidence or stress, however, moderated adverse effects on behavior problems (p = .03). Predictors explained 16% of variance of behavior problems. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Empathy was protective when stress was high. Empathy training may enhance high-risk parent education.
Large strain mechanical behavior of 1018 cold-rolled steel over a wide range of strain rates

M. VURAL, D. RITTEL and G. RAVICHANDRAN The large-strain constitutive behavior of cold-rolled 1018 steel has been characterized at strain rates ranging from � 10 � 3 to 5 � 10 4 s � 1 using a newly developed shear compression specimen (SCS). The SCS technique allows for a seamless characterization of the constitutive behavior of materials over a large range of strain rates. The comparison of results with those obtained by cylindrical specimens shows an excellent correlation up to strain rates of 10 4 s � 1 . The study also shows a marked strain rate sensitivity of the steel at rates exceeding 100 s � 1 . With increasing strain rate, the apparent average strain hardening of the material decreases and becomes negative at rates exceeding 5000 s � 1 . This observation corroborates recent results obtained in torsion tests, while the strain softening was not clearly observed during dynamic compression of cylindrical specimens. A possible evolution scheme for shear localization is discussed, based on the detailed characterization of deformed microstructures. The Johnson‐Cook constitutive model has been modified to represent the experimental data over a wide range of strain rates as well as to include heat-transfer effects, and model parameters have been determined for 1018 cold-rolled steel.
The Influence of Subgroup Dynamics on Knowledge Coordination in Distributed Software Development Teams: A Transactive Memory System and Group Faultline Perspective

With the globalization of the software industry, distributed software teams (DSTs) have become increasingly common. Among the various social aspects that are essential to the success of distributed software projects, the focus of this research is the impact of inter-subgroup dynamics on knowledge coordination. To address this research question, we extend and apply theory from two primary sources: transactive memory systems theory and the faultline model. We describe afield survey study that is in progress. The findings from this study will inform managers on how DSTs develop capabilities to perform successfully across temporal, geographic and cultural boundaries.
An efficient digital sliding controller for adaptive power-supply regulation

Proposes a digital controller for adaptive power-supply regulation that uses sliding control, which is a widely used technique in switching power supplies for its fast transient response and robust stability. A novel reformulation of the sliding control law enables a simple and power-efficient digital implementation. The reference circuit can be either a delay line or a ring oscillator, and the sensor circuits for both cases are discussed. The prototype chip fabricated in 0.25-/spl mu/m CMOS technology demonstrates a power efficiency of 89% - 95 % over the regulated voltage range of 1.1 - 2.3 V.
Anthropometric assessment of nutritional status in renal disease

Abstract A nutritional assessment by a trained dietitian is recommended for persons diagnosed with renal disease because they are frequently in poor nutritional health. Knowledge of the nutritional health of persons with renal disease is necessary to prescribe and monitor appropriate clinical and nutrition therapies. Anthropometrical methods occupy a meaningful role in assessing the nutritional status of persons with renal disease, are cost-effective screening techniques for describing body size, and they are well-suited for identifying levels of body composition, nutritional status, or risk for disease. However, renal patients frequently present special problems for anthropometry because of a cast or an amputation, and as the vascular access is moved around the body in hemodialysis patients, there will be a continuous shifting of body locations for circumferences and skinfolds. Also, an abnormal hydration status alters the assumptions underlying the relationships with anthropometric methods, and it is recommended that these be collected post-dialysis. These alterations in technique combined with the decreased functional status and increased comorbidity associated with renal disease present a challenge to nutritional assessment methodology. In meeting this challenge, the utility of anthropometry as part of a nutrition assessment is significant.
Language and communication barriers for health delivery to a minority group

Abstract The present paper is a first attempt to conceptualize some of the language and communication barriers existing between health providers and an audience of consumers, mostly composed of impoverished Mexican Americans. The paper provides theoretical explanation for the communication gap in terms of the “dependency- dignidad ” and the “cosmology of destiny” paradoxes. Situational examples also look at the stages of medical intervention in terms of Mexican-American perceptions, family relations, norms, and social structure.
Identifying effective policies in approximate dynamic programming: beyond regression

Dynamic programming formulations may be used to solve for optimal policies in Markov decision processes. Due to computational complexity dynamic programs must often be solved approximately. We consider the case of a tunable approximation architecture used in lieu of computing true value functions. The standard methodology advocates tuning the approximation architecture via sample path information and regression to get a good fit to the true value function. We provide an example which shows that this approach may unnecessarily lead to poorly performing policies and suggest direct search methods to find better performing value function approximations. We illustrate this concept with an application from ambulance redeployment.
Production Method and Cultivar Effects on Garlic Over-wintering Survival, Bulb Quality, and Yield

ADDITIONAL INDEX WORDS. Allium sativum, plasticulture, specialty vegetable SUMMARY. Garlic (Alliumsativum) is a popular specialty vegetable sold at many local market venues. Recently, the demand for high-quality garlic has prompted grower interest in producing this crop for direct markets. A 2-year study was conducted at the Southern Illinois University Horticulture Research Center in Carbondale to evaluate eight currently recommended garlic cultivars on a silty loam soil, as well as compare garlic produced on bare soil during the winter and wheat (Triticum aestivum) straw mulch in the spring to black plastic. ‘Idaho Silverskin’ (softneck, silverskin type) and ‘Persian Star’ (hardneck, purple-stripe type) were the best cultivars of those evaluated for the lower midwestern United States based upon various yield and quality characteristics. ‘Idaho Silverskin’ and ‘Persian Star’ had 100% winter survival (regardless of production method), high bulb quality, low amounts of foliar disease, high marketable yields with low cull production (>96% of bulblets developed marketable bulbs), and low amounts of bulb rot (<7%). Black plastic provided greater winter protection for garlic (95% survival rate) compared with bare soil (85% survival rate). Greater marketable weights and bulb diameters (50% and 23% increase, respectively) resulted when garlic was grown in black plastic compared with the bare soil/wheat straw mulch treatment.
Effect of Diet and Metabolic Rate on Open Circuit Calculations of [Vdot]O2 and [Vdot]CO2

Abstract [Vdot]O2, [Vdot]CO2, and R were calculated directly and by Haldane assumption on 18 male subjects at two metabolic rates (resting, and 600 kp·m/min), under three randomly assigned dietary conditions (postabsorbtive, mixed meal, and high protein meal). [Vdot]1N2 and [Vdot]EN2 were calculated. All ventilatory determinations were based on continuous, 5-min volume determinations. Statistical analyses consisted of appropriate 2 × 3 × 18 ANOVA, Scheffe, and paired t-test comparisons. Correlation coefficients between Haldane and direct calculations of [Vdot]O2 and [Vdot]CO2 were .997 and .999, respectively. At rest no effects of imbalances in N2 ventilation were evident. At the work rate of 600 kp·m/min [Vdot]1N2 was significantly greater than [Vdot]EN2 and the Haldane calculation significantly overestimated [Vdot]CO2 by .1% and underestimated [Vdot]O2 by 1.8%. These differences were not considered to be physiologically significant. Other than a SDA effect at rest, diet did not affect calculations of [V...
Analysis of a posteriori error estimates of the discontinuous Galerkin method for nonlinear ordinary differential equations

We develop and analyze a new residual-based a posteriori error estimator for the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method for nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The a posteriori DG error estimator under investigation is computationally simple, efficient, and asymptotically exact. It is obtained by solving a local residual problem with no boundary condition on each element. We first prove that the DG solution exhibits an optimal O ( h p + 1 ) convergence rate in the L 2 -norm when p-degree piecewise polynomials with p ? 1 are used. We further prove that the DG solution is O ( h 2 p + 1 ) superconvergent at the downwind points. We use these results to prove that the p-degree DG solution is O ( h p + 2 ) super close to a particular projection of the exact solution. This superconvergence result allows us to show that the true error can be divided into a significant part and a less significant part. The significant part of the discretization error for the DG solution is proportional to the ( p + 1 ) -degree right Radau polynomial and the less significant part converges at O ( h p + 2 ) rate in the L 2 -norm. Numerical experiments demonstrate that the theoretical rates are optimal. Based on the global superconvergent approximations, we construct asymptotically exact a posteriori error estimates and prove that they converge to the true errors in the L 2 -norm under mesh refinement. The order of convergence is proved to be p + 2 . Finally, we prove that the global effectivity index in the L 2 -norm converges to unity at O ( h ) rate. Several numerical examples are provided to illustrate the global superconvergence results and the convergence of the proposed estimator under mesh refinement. A local adaptive procedure that makes use of our local a posteriori error estimate is also presented.
Spatial and Diel Activity of Liriomyza Species (Diptera: Agromyzidae) in Fresh Market Tomatoes

Spatial and diel activities of Liriomyza spp. leafminers were investigated weekly using yellow sticky traps which were placed at three different plant heights and monitored during four time periods. Leafminer flight activity peaked from 0700 to 1100 hours, due primarily to movement of males. Diel activity differences between species were not observed, but spatial activity differed between species, with most L. sativae Blanchard trapped at the middle plant height while L. trifolii (Burgess) were most abundant at the low plant height. Total adults obtained from low or middle traps monitored during any of the three daylight time periods were significantly correlated with cumulative 24-h counts of adults. L. sativae was the most abundant species collected in 1981, while L. trifolii predominated in 1982. More larvae and puparia were collected in pupal trays between 0700 and 1100 hours than during any other time period, indicating periodicity of larval emergence from foliage. A significant relationship between numbers of pupae in trays and the number of adults captured 2 weeks later provides a suitable tool for forecasting the size of adult populations.
The role of complexity in music uses

This study explores complexity, musical dimensions, and the use of music for cognitive, emotional, or background purposes. In the pilot study, participants rated the complexity of 70 song excerpts ...