cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU-E-J-208: Feasibility Study On Using Small Plastic Phantoms for Auditing Radiation Output of MR-Linac Systems

Purpose: To study feasibility of using small plastic phantoms designed for conventional linac output auditing to measure the output of MR-Linac systems. Methods: For simulations, the CT scan of an IROC(formerly RPC) acrylic block phantom designed for 8 MV beams was imported in a research version of the treatment planning system (Monaco). Dose delivered to three TLDs in the block was calculated with a Monte Carlo algorithm and a beam model based on an MR-linac prototype with and without a magnetic field (B=1.5T). In a large mathematical water phantom, the same beam was used to calculate dose in full scatter conditions. The block factor (F) was calculated as the ratio of the average dose to the block TLDs to the dose at the reference point in the mathematical phantom. For experimental measurement, four IROC blocks were irradiated with the MR-linac prototype, and data were analyzed by IROC. Results: The F factor without a B field was 1.053. When a B field was applied, it changed the dose distribution in the block, especially on the edges. With a B field parallel to the long axes of the TLD, F was 1.038. However, with a perpendicular B field, F factor increased slightly to 1.075. In the IROC report, the output determined with two blocks parallel to the B field was 2.3% higher than the output by the two blocks perpendicular to the B field. The average of all four blocks was within 2% of machine output measured with an ion chamber. Conclusion: It may be feasible to expand the utility of the acrylic block phantoms for radiation output auditing from conventional linacs to MR-linacs. However, the scatter correction factor can change due to the B field and its orientation to the block. More symmetric phantom designs may be less prone to mistakes. We acknowledge research support from Elekta
Generalized task markets for human and machine computation

We discuss challenges and opportunities for developing generalized task markets where human and machine intelligence are enlisted to solve problems, based on a consideration of the competencies, availabilities, and pricing of different problem-solving resources. The approach couples human computation with machine learning and planning, and is aimed at optimizing the flow of subtasks to people and to computational problem solvers. We illustrate key ideas in the context of Lingua Mechanica, a project focused on harnessing human and machine translation skills to perform translation among languages. We present infrastructure and methods for enlisting and guiding human and machine computation for language translation, including details about the hardness of generating plans for assigning tasks to solvers. Finally, we discuss studies performed with machine and human solvers, focusing on components of a Lingua Mechanica prototype.
Enzyme supplementation and particle size of wheat in diets for nursery and finishing pigs

Three experiments were conducted to determine the effects of enzyme supplementation and particle size of wheat-based diets on growth performance and nutrient digestibility in nursery and finishing pigs. In Exp. 1, 180 weaned pigs (5.7 kg and 21 d of age) were fed diets in a 35-d growth assay without or with a Trichoderma longibrachiatium enzyme product (4,000 units of xylanase activity per gram of product) and with wheat ground to mean particle sizes of 1,300, 600, or 400 microm. Enzyme supplementation had no effect on ADG or gain/feed (P > 0.32), but there was a trend (P 0.15). However, there were trends for greater gain/feed (P < 0.10) during the 67- to 93-kg phase of the experiment and for greater digestibility of DM (P < 0.10) and N (P < 0.07) with enzyme supplementation. When particle size was reduced from 1,300 to 600 microm, gain/feed was improved (P < 0.03) for the 93- to 114-kg phase of the growth assay, and digestibilities of DM (P < 0.02) and N (P < 0.04) were greater. In Exp. 3, 160 finishing pigs (63 kg) were given diets without or with the enzyme product and wheat ground to 600 or 400 microm. Enzyme supplementation improved ADG (P < 0.04) in the 90- to 115-kg phase but otherwise did not affect growth performance, carcass measurements, or stomach lesions. A particle size of 400 microm increased overall gain/feed (P < 0.04), digestibilities of DM and N (P < 0.01), and development of stomach lesions (P < 0.01). In conclusion, pigs did not benefit consistently from enzyme supplementation. However, wheat particle sizes of 600 and 400 microm supported the best overall performance in nursery and finishing pigs, respectively.
Evolution of the lipoprotein gene in the enterobacteriaceae: Cloning and DNA sequence of the lpp gene from Proteus mirabilis☆

We cloned the lipoprotein gene from Proteus mirabilis and determined its DNA sequence. Comparison with the lpp genes from Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Erwinia amylovora and Morganella morganii revealed several unique features of the evolution of the lpp gene in the Enterobacteriaceae and enabled us to establish phylogenetic relationships between these bacteria.
Temporal Information Management Using XML

A closer integration of XML and database systems is actively pursued by researchers and vendors because of the many practical benefits it offers. Additional special benefits can be achieved on temporal information management – an important application area that represents an unsolved challenge for relational databases [1]. Indeed, XML data model and query languages support: Temporally grouped representations that have long been recognized as a natural data model for historical information [2], and Turing-complete query languages, such as XQuery [3], where all the constructs needed for temporal queries can be introduced as user-defined libraries, without requiring extensions to existing standards.
Electroformed die technique for rubber base impressions

Abstract The principles of plating rubber base impressions with silver are discussed in relation to current strength and time of immersion. A method of producing a silver-plated laboratory cast with removable tooth dies is described.
Extracellular calcium activity in the injured spinal cord

Abstract The extracellular concentration of calcium ion was measured in canine spinal cord subsequent to spinal injury. In the control animal, we found that calcium activities changed little independent of electrode placement in the spinal cord, were stable during the 3 h necessary to make injury measurements, and were comparable to other estimates of calcium in the interstitial space. After injury, calcium activities decreased to micromolar levels that were incompatible with neural function. An incomplete recovery of extracellular calcium occurred during the next 3 h to about one-third (0.44 ± 0.01 m m ) of the normal value (1.1 ± 0.08 m m ). Such a pattern of changes in extracellular calcium was specific for the injury site itself and did not occur at nearby anatomic loci. These results are interpreted as having both short- and longterm effects on neuronal function and subsequent reorganization of spinal pathways.
Penokean deformation and associated metamorphism in the western Marquette Range, northern Michigan

Geologic studies of Precambrian rocks in northern Michigan indicate that the Penokean orogeny, which occurred about 1.9 b.y. ago, consisted of four stages of deformation, three of which occurred during a prolonged period of regional metamorphism. The first two stages of deformation were possibly caused by gravity sliding northward off an ancestral Penokean range located in central Wisconsin. The deformation probably started while the sediments were still soft, and it produced a pervasive west-northwest–trending foliation in the middle Precambrian rocks. The third and fourth stages of deformation were caused by uplift of rigid blocks of lower Precambrian basement rocks; this uplift produced prominent grabens such as the Marquette and Republic troughs. Metamorphism began very early in the deformational sequence, peaked during the third stage of deformation, and ended in a period of retrograde metamorphism.
Mobile inverted-repeat elements of the Tourist family are associated with the genes of many cereal grasses.

Abstract Tourist was originally described as a 128-bp insertion mutation in the maize wx-B2 allele. Subsequent analysis revealed that Tourist elements are in the introns or flanking sequences of 11 maize genes and a single barley gene. In this study we report that Tourist elements are frequently associated with the wild-type genes of two other grasses, rice and sorghum. Six of 35 rice and 5 of 8 sorghum complete gene sequences reported to date contain Tourist elements. Furthermore, 11 additional maize genes have been found to contain Tourist elements, bringing the current total of elements associated with maize genes to 23. Sequence comparison of Tourist elements has led to the identification of four subfamilies, designated A-D. Evidence is presented for the recent mobility of elements in three of these subfamilies and in three of the four grass species. These data suggest that Tourist elements are highly repetitive in the genomes of some and perhaps all members of the grasses.
Theoretical Analysis of the Rhombic Simulator Under Pulse Excitation

An analysis is given of the electromagnetic pulse generated in the space between the wires of a rhombic simulator by pulses of current traveling along the wires. After the mechanism of pulse excitation is clarified with the help of measured results, the electromangnetic pulse is investigated in terms of a current pulse with known shape that travels along the rhombic wires. The calculated pulse sequences agree very well with the measured ones. The "subpulse" radiated by each small segment of the wires as the current pulse traverses it is also studied. The time delays of the sequence of subpulses play an important role in the formation of the complete electromagnetic pulse. The amplitudes of the subpulses are relatively less important.
ELECTRON SPIN RESONANCE STUDIES OF THE EXCITED TRIPLET STATES OF DL‐5‐HYDROXY‐TRYPTOPHAN, 5‐HYDROXYINDOLE, 6‐HYDROXY‐NICOTINIC ACID, INDOLE AND HIPPURIC ACID‡,‡

— The electron spin resonances of the metastable triplet states of DL-5-hydroxy-tryptophan, 6-hydroxynicotinic acid, and other related compounds have been observed in various glasses at 77°K. These compounds are biologically interesting in connection with photochemical processes. The Δm= 2 transitions were observed and the spin-spin interaction parameter (D2+ 3E21/2 was determined. However, for indole, it was also able to observe the Δm= 1 transitions from which D and E were determined separately. From the values of (D2+ 3E2)1/2, D and E whenever possible and from the decay times of the triplet states, it was possible to characterize the lowest triplets as π—π* states in all cases. Studies of the pH dependence of DL-5-hydroxytryptophan, 5-hydroxyindole, and 6-hydroxynicotinic acid indicate that the unionized molecule exhibits a resonance different from that of the related ion with a proton removed from the phenolic hydroxyl group. The zero-field splitting parameters D* and the lifetime of the triplet states have also been measured in various glasses and in Lucite. Both temperature and the specific nature of the host media affected the values of these parameters.
Coronal suturectomy does not cause acute postoperative displacement in the cranial bases of craniosynostotic rabbits

Approximately 300 to 500 infants per 1,000,000 have prematurely fused cranial sutures (craniosynostosis). Craniosynostosis can result in increased intracranial pressure and craniofacial deformities, which often require extensive and costly craniofacial surgery. Because the neurocranium and basicranium are developmentally interrelated, understanding their influence on one another is important for surgical planning. Although surgery has been found to have long-term effects on the cranial bases of craniosynostotic human beings and rabbits, the biological mechanisms behind these effects remain uncertain. Some researchers have suggested that the surgical release of synostosed sutures alters long-term growth patterns, resulting in cranial base differences between craniosynostotic individuals who undergo surgery and those who do not. Additionally, some investigators have proposed that an acute and surgically related displacement of basicranial elements may contribute to the observed differences. The current study examines acute postoperative changes in four lengths, three angles, and three triangles between cranial base landmarks in a sample of seven New Zealand white rabbits with familial nonsyndromic craniosynostosis. Results indicate that suturectomy caused no statistically significant (P < 0.05) acute length, angular, or shape differences in the cranial base. Thus, previous long-term cranial base differences found between rabbits that were operated on and those that were not were probably not caused by an acute displacement of skeletal elements as a result of surgery. These findings suggest that postoperative cranial base changes may be related more to chronically altered growth patterns than to acutely altered changes in intracranial pressure or dural tension.
Initial evaluation of a computer-based medication management tool in a geriatric clinic

Abstract Background: Optimal management of medication regimens remains a challenge for elderly patients and their providers. Tools that aid communication and adherence can be valuable but often do not meet expectations. Objective: The purpose of this article was to describe the development and preliminary evaluation of a computer-based medication management tool, the Visual Medication Profile (VMP), and to report initial feedback from geriatric patient and provider focus groups. Methods: For VMP development, an interdisciplinary team (ie, physicians, nurses, pharmacists, computer analysts, and programmers) designed the fully automated, Web-based intervention that integrates the Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) computer pharmacy system with the computerized patient record system. In addition to development of the required technology, a mixed methods design and a convenience sample were used to collect pilot data related to patient-provider issues about medication management, and the acceptance, feasibility, and usefulness of the VMP. This involved the use of focus groups and a pilot study group. Results: First, the interdisciplinary team developed the VMP by integrating data from the pharmacy database, the patient's database, and a pill photograph database. Second, patients and providers in the focus groups discussed medication management issues and evaluated a sample VMP. Patients (n = 8; mean age, 76 years; 5 black, 3 white) noted the following medication management problems: (1) not understanding the information provided by the physician; (2) multiple providers; and (3) unpronounceable names of medications. Providers (n = 8 [4 physicians, 4 nurse practitioners]) noted that patients and providers use different language to discuss medications; that there is a lack of congruence between patients' self-report of current medications and their medical record; and that there are severe time constraints for clinic appointments and concern regarding introducing a new clinical tool. Both groups favored a VMP-like tool to improve communication. In the VMP prototype pilot study, a patient-specific VMP was developed for each of 6 subjects (mean age, 79.7 years; 3 black, 3 white) from the outpatient geriatric clinic. Congruence rates ranged from 51% to 100%. Five of the 6 subjects participated in follow-up. The nurse's telephone log from the pilot study revealed that although 4 out of the 5 subjects and/or caregivers reported that they favored the VMP as a medical management tool, the use of the VMP at home varied considerably. Conclusions: The VMP is a promising tool for use by both patients and providers to improve medication management. Although it was developed in the VAMC system, its Web-based platform has the potential for export to other systems.
Identification of a Contiguous 6-Residue Determinant in the MHV Receptor That Controls the Level of Virion Binding to Cells

Murine carcinoembryonic antigens serve as receptors for the binding and entry of the enveloped coronavirus mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) into cells. Numerous receptor isoforms are now known, and each has extensive differences in its amino terminal immunoglobulin-like domain (NTD) to which MHV binds via its protruding spike proteins. Some of these receptor alterations may affect the ability to bind viral spikes. To identify individual residues controlling virus binding differences, we have used plasmid and vaccinia virus vectors to express two forms of MHV receptor differing only in their NTD. The two receptors, designated biliary glycoproteins (Bgp) 1a and 1bNTD, varied by 29 residues in the 107 amino acid NTD. When expressed from cDNAs in receptor-negative HeLa cells, these two Bgp molecules were displayed on cell surfaces to equivalent levels, as both were equally modified by a membrane-impermeant biotinylation reagent. Infectious center assays revealed that the 1a isoform was 10 to 100 times more effective than 1bNTD in its ability to confer sensitivity to MHV (strain A59) infection. Bgp1a was also more effective than Bgp1bNTD in comparative virus absorption assays, binding 6 times-more MHV (strain A59) and 2.5 times more MHV (strain JHMX). Bgp1a was similarly more effective in promoting the capacity of viral spikes to mediate intercellular membrane fusion as judged by quantitation of syncytia following cocultivation of spike and receptor-bearing cells. To identify residues influencing these differences, we inserted varying numbers of 1b residues into the Bgp1a background via restriction fragment exchange and site-directed mutagenesis. Analysis of the resulting chimeric receptors showed that residues 38 to 43 of the NTD were key determinants of the binding and fusion differences between the two receptors. These residues map to an exposed loop (C-C' loop) in a structural model of the closely related human carcinoembryonic antigen.
Discovery of hotspots on Io using disk-resolved infrared imaging

First results are presented using two new techniques for ground-based observation of Io's hotspots. An IR array camera was used to obtain direct IR images of Io with resolution better than 0.5 arcsec, so that more than one hotspot is seen on Io in Jupiter eclipse. The camera was also used to make the first observations of the Jupiter occultation of the hotspots. These new techniques have revealed and located at least three hotspots and will now permit routine ground-based monitoring of the locations, temperatures, and sizes of multiple hotspots on Io.
Development of an adsorption compressor for use in cryogenic refrigeration

A new compressor with no moving parts has been developed which is able to supply a source of high-pressure gas to a Joule-Thompson based cryogenic refrigerator. The compressor relies on a newly implemented combination of high-surface-area Saran carbon (sorbent) and krypton gas (working fluid). In addition, an integral gas-gap heat switch is used to provide improved overall efficiency. A prototype compressor has been designed, built, and tested as a part of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory effort in sorption refrigeration. Performance data from the prototype unit described here demonstrate successful compressor performance and good agreement with theoretical predictions.
Experimental evidence of long life lead-free oxygen galvanic sensors

In this work we present an experimental study of the lifetime of O2 galvanic sensors in KOH aqueous solution, considering bismuth, copper and antimony as the candidates for lead anode replacement in present devices. An initial accelerated ageing test in 100% O2 suggested antimony for the next stage. Further experiments have shown an accelerated ageing factor of 18, which allowed the estimation of a lifetime of more than five years for an O2 galvanic sensor based on Sb anode of large surface area. A scaling law in lifetime as a function surface area (or anode current density) was found, which agreed with electrochemical passivation studies of Sb in alkaline solutions.
Ultrastructural characteristics of layer IV neuropil in area 17 of monkeys.

Neurons and synapses were classified within layer IV of area 17 in monkeys (Saimiri, Macaca mulatta, Macaca radiata). Three types of neurons of different sizes, distinct internal structure and synaptic environments occur. The first type is the largest neuron encountered in layer IV. It is rich in cytoplasmic organelles and receives a moderate number of Gray's type 1 and type 2 terminals onto soma and proximal dendrites. Type 1 endings are favored over type 2 terminals. This neuron resembles the large, smooth stellate cell of other investigators. The second type is a small neuron with fewer cytoplasmic organelles and few axosomatic endings of both types. It is similar to the small stellate cell described in other reports. The third type is the smallest cell in layer IV and contains only a sparse collection of organelles. It receives exclusively type 2 axon terminals onto soma and proximal dendrites and, thus, corresponds to LeVay's (1973) small spiny stellate cell. Neurons of this type are the most common in layer IV. Many of these small neurons contain an inclusion body.
The clinical effectiveness and safety of chronic plasmapheresis in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic nonsuppurative, destructive cholangitis, whose etiology is unknown. Morbidity arises early from pruritus and later from hypercholesterolemia with xanthoma formation. Therapy is supportive and directed at the complications of cholestasis. Plasmapheresis has been reported to benefit patients with hyperlipidemia and PBC; thus a pilot study of plasmapheresis utilizing the Haemonetics Model 30 with replacement by albumin and saline was conducted. Five patients (four female and one male) with a mean age of 43 (range 29–58) and a mean duration of illness of 9.5 years (range 6–21) with marked jaundice, xanthomas, xanthelasma, hepatomegaly, fatigability, anorexia, and pruritus, as well as mild nausea were studied. Peripheral neuropathy was present in two patients. Two patients had splenomegaly. Two patients had an associated Sjogren syndrome. All patients had high serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and cholesterol levels and mild elevations in aspartate amino transferase and alanine amino transferase activities. Immune complexes measured in four patients were present. Antimitochondrial antibody titers were significant in all patients. Patients underwent a mean of 63 plasmapheresis procedures over a mean of 112 weeks removing a mean of 94.7 liters of plasma. No serious toxicity was seen. All patients showed a reduction in pruritus, xanthomas, xanthelasmas, and serum cholesterol values. The two patients who had evidence of Sjogren syndrome noted subjective improvement. All patients who had fatigue, anorexia and nausea also noted moderate improvement. There was no change in hepatomegaly or splenomegaly in patients demonstrating such organomegaly. Liver function did not change significantly. Overall, four patients had improvement in their condition and one patient achieved stability. We strongly recommend the use of chronic plasmapheresis for patients with PBC who have failed more “conventional” regimens.
Characterization of a NK-lysin antimicrobial peptide gene from channel catfish.

Auburn Univ, Dept Fisheries & Allied Aquacultures, Fish Mol Genet & Biotechnol Lab, Auburn, AL 36849 USA; Auburn Univ, Program Cell & Mol Biosci, Aquat Genom Unit, Auburn, AL 36849 USA; E China Normal Univ, Shanghai 200062, Peoples R China; Shanghai Fisheries Univ, Coll Aquat Life Sci & Technol, Shanghai 200090, Peoples R China; Chinese Acad Sci, Inst Hydrobiol, Wuhan, Peoples R China
Electrochemical cell investigations of LixTiS2 and LixNayTiS2 using a polymer electrolyte

Abstract Ionic complexes of polymers are a new class of ionic solids which deserve special attention (1) . The open-circuit EMF of cell (A) has been measured as a function of composition, x, in Li x TiS 2 at temperatures between 30 and 100 C. Li/LiC 2 O 2 F 3 in polyethylene oxide/Li x TiS 2 (A) The results agree with a previous study (2) in which a liquid organic-solvent electrolyte was used. Thus, the LiC 2 O 2 F 3 -polyethylene oxide complex is a suitable lithium electrolyte for open circuit measurements in this temperature range. Open-circuit EMF's of cell (B) have also been measured for values of x between 0.2 and 0.8. Li/LiC 2 O 2 F 3 in polyethylene oxide/Li x Na 0.16 TiS 2 (B) Some Li x Na 0.16 TiS 2 compounds with x between 1.0 and 1.8 have also been prepared, but EMF's of cells using these materials as cathodes were unstable. The measured compositional variation of the lithium chemical potential in Li x Na 0.16 TiS 2 is discussed in terms of a recent thermodynamic model (3) to increase the understanding of alkali-metal interactions in intercalated dichalcogenides. The results are also used to calculate a theoretical energy density and to assess the electrode applications of these novel materials.
Translocation renal cell carcinoma: lack of negative impact due to lymph node spread.

BACKGROUND. Pediatric renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is clinically distinct from adult RCC.1 Characterization of the unique biological and clinical features of pediatric RCC are required. METHODS. A retrospective review and biological analysis of all RCC cases presenting to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) in the last 30 years was undertaken. Cases were classified according to the recent World Heath Organization morphologic classification and according to TFE3/TFEB status. A literature review of pediatric TFE+ cases was performed. RESULTS. Eleven cases of RCC with clinical data were identified in our institutional review as follows: 6 clear cell, 2 papillary, 2 translocation, and 1 sarcomatoid. Upon reanalysis, 1 papillary and 1 sarcomatoid were confirmed, 1 case was “unclassified”, and 8 of 11 (72.7%) had features consistent with translocation morphology. Of these 8, all demonstrated immunoreactivity for TFE3 (7 patients) or TFEB (1 patient) protein. In 3 cases, cytogenetics was available, each demonstrating confirmatory MiTF/TFE translocations. Seven of 8 TFE+ RCC patients presented with TNM Stage III/IV disease. Literature analysis confirmed a significant increase in advanced stage presentation in pediatric TFE+ RCC compared with TFE− RCC. Fourteen of fifteen (93.3%) patients with TFE+ stage III/IV RCC due to lymph node spread (N+ M0) remain disease free with a median and mean follow-up of 4.4 and 6.3 years, respectively (range, 0.3-15.5). CONCLUSIONS. Translocation morphology RCC is the predominant form of pediatric RCC, associated with an advanced stage at presentation. Patients with TFE+ N+ M0 RCC maintain a favorable short-term prognosis after surgery alone. Young RCC patients should be screened for translocation morphology, and the screening information should be considered when debating adjuvant therapy. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
The Nuclear Transcription Factor RARα Associates with Neuronal RNA Granules and Suppresses Translation

All-trans-retinoic acid stimulates dendritic growth in hippocampal neurons within minutes by activating mitogen-activated protein kinase and mTOR and increasing dendritic translation of calcium calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II α and the α-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionate receptor subunit GluR1. Hippocampal neurons express RARα in dendrites, and knocking down RARα prevents all-trans-retinoic acid effects on dendritic growth. Here we show, by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis of immunoaffinity isolates of hippocampal neurons, that RARα partners with many RNA-binding proteins and translation factors conveyed in dendritic RNA transport granules, including the purine-rich element-binding protein, Pur α. The interaction of RARα with Pur α, an RNA-binding protein required for dendritic RNA transport, and other RNA-binding proteins was confirmed by tandem affinity purification. Confocal microscopy confirmed localization of neuronal RARα in dendritic RNA granules with Pur α and FMRP (the fragile × mental retardation protein). Hippocampal RARα also associates with mRNA, e.g. encoding GluR1 and calcium calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II α. Consistent with a granule function of conveying translationally silenced mRNA, RARα inhibits translation initiation, independent of 7-methylguanylate cap or poly(A) tail, and prompts mRNA redistribution to silencing ribonucleoprotein particles. These data afford a mechanism for rapid stimulation of dendritic growth by all-trans-retinoic acid and reveal that the ligand-dependent transcription factor RARα also regulates translation.
Progress in Iron and Steel: 1870–1913

At the beginning of the period 1870–1913 the United Kingdom was the acknowledged leader in the iron and steel industry; at its end she was in some sense or other a third-rate iron and steel producer, surpassed by the United States and Germany. The first section of this paper will formulate definitions of “loss of leadership” which are statistically verifiable and economically significant, and will determine whether or not, for a given sense of the term, it is true that the United Kingdom fell behind the other countries. The second section considers some of the factors which led to the U. K.'s “loss of leadership”.
General polygonal variogram functions: Evaluation of estimation variance integrals

The application of regionalized variables requires the estimation of the variogram function and the evaluation of its integral. By representing the variogram by a general polygonal function the requisite integrals may be easily computed by a closed form representation of simple integrals. This paper provides the integration formulas for two-dimensional variogram functions whose domain is represented as a finite collection of rectangles. The integration formulas essential for a fully developed polygonal approach to an extensive statistical evaluation of geostatistical quantities are presented.
Economic factors affecting the increase in obesity in the United States: Differential response to price

Abstract A sharp increase in obesity during the last 15 years in the United States became one of the nation’s main public health problems. The theory of rational addiction seems to explain human behavior in food consumption leading to obesity reasonably well. The interesting thing about our results is that the tax policy, normally used to correct various distortions, is to serve in this case as the preventive policy: additional taxes on future prices of the addictive (sweet) foods contribute to lower sugar consumption and BMI at present time. On the other hand, increasing education level is usually considered a preventive type of policy. In this case, it leads to lowering the levels of the BMI in already overweight and obese population.
Size and Temperature Dependence of Surface Plasmon Absorption of Gold Nanoparticles Induced by Tris(2,2‘-bipyridine)ruthenium(II)

It is well known that surface plasmon absorption (color) of Au nanoparticles highly depends on its size, shape, and surrounding surface environment, providing a great opportunity for the development of Au nanoparticles as a probe for chemical and biochemical sensing and as a building block for nano-optical devices. Currently, it remains incompletely understood how the surface properties of Au nanoparticles ultimately define its optical properties, hindering the progress of rational design of Au nanoparticles for biochemical sensing and assembly of nano-optical devices. Ru(bpy)32+ possesses rich photochemical and electrochemical properties, offering a unique probe to study the surface environment of Au nanoparticles. In this study, we investigate the kinetics of surface plasmon absorption of Au nanoparticles (6.5, 19, 48, 97 nm) in the presence of Ru(bpy)32+ at 24.0, 33.0, and 51.0 °C. We find that the color-change rate of Au nanoparticles is highly sensitive to the amount of Ru(bpy)32+. In addition, the m...
Aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity in obstructive jaundice.

Abstract Purpose: Although it is known that liver disease predisposes to aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity, specific features of such disease that may predispose to aminoglycoside-induced renal injury have not been identified. We sought to identify such features. Patients and methods: We undertook a retrospective review of the charts of 42 consecutive patients with biliary obstruction and/or cholangitis who had received more than three doses of an aminoglycoside. Results: Comparison of patients in whom aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity did and did not develop revealed no differences in age, race, sex, dose, and duration of aminoglycoside therapy; mean peak and trough aminoglycoside levels; initial pre-treatment levels of serum creatinine, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, or albumin; or prothrombin time. The initial pre-treatment serum bilirubin level was higher in the patients in whom aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity developed (12.2 ± 8.8 mg/dl versus 3.4 ± 3.2 mg/dl, p Conclusion: Aminoglycosides should probably be avoided in patients with biliary obstruction and a high serum bilirubin level.
Time To start charging for cleaning student computers

At the University of Delaware, many students became comfortable with allowing their computers to become compromised, even though infected computers and computers flagged for copyright violations would lose campus network access. We believe this is because students were aware that they could bring the computer to IT User Services for staff to fix-for free.During the spring 2004 and fall 2004 semesters, IT User Services cleaned thousands of compromised computers. Students acted as if there were no incentive to become self-sufficient, and our professional staff were pulled from their regularly assigned duties to clean student computers. An extensive advertising and documentation campaign had improved campus security awareness; however, the problem clearly required further management intervention. As a result, IT senior management decided to implement a charge-back policy for cleaning student computers.This presentation will report on the program to date, covering the mechanics of the process, the behavioral effects of combining enhanced documentation with service charges for cleaning systems, the students' reactions to the program, and how the program fits with other responsible computing initiatives on campus.This presentation complements the poster session, "Student, Heal Thyself," about the step-by-step documentation that will help students become more self-sufficient. Our presentation will give an overview suitable for computing services management.
Information Processing with Fuzzy S-P Evaluation Method and Application in Evaluating Teaching Quality

Teaching evaluation is to process the information of the huge amount of teaching data and to evaluate the teaching activity, process and outcome to provide the basis for the quality and decision of teaching. S-P Chart is a typical evaluating method. The paper introduces both traditional and fuzzy S-P chart. Then, the paper proposes three improved S-P methods, including single-knowledge-point analysis, multi-knowledge-point analysis and cognition analysis. All these three improved methods supplements the shortages of traditional S-P and fuzzy S-P, and are implied in an analysis system of the quality of teaching.
Convex polyhedra of doubly stochastic matrices III. Affine and combinatorial properties of Ωn

Abstract Affine and combinatorial properties of the polytope Ω n of all n × n nonnegative doubly stochastic matrices are investigated. One consequence of this investigation is that if F is a face of Ω n of dimension d > 2, then F has at most 3( d −1) facets. The special faces of Ω n which were characterized in Part I of our study of Ω n in terms of the corresponding (0, 1)- matrices are classified with respect to affine equivalence.
Comparison of P with Ca Distribution in Developing Rat Molar Enamel In Vivo and In Vitro

The distribution of 45Ca and 33P in developing rat molar enamel has been studied using freeze sectioning and autoradiographic methods. The distribution patterns of the two tracers in vivo were dissimilar. The use of in vitro methods showed that flux of 33P into enamel is not influenced by the cells of the enamel organ. It is suggested that the factors controlling movement of calcium and phosphorus into mineralizing enamel may be similar to those proposed for bone.
Does a Degree Make a Difference? A Comparison of Interactions between Degreed and Non-Degreed Early Childhood Educators and Their Four-Year-Old Children.

Conclusions and implications from two separate observational case studies which examined teachers’ interactions with young children are compared. The first study was conducted with three teachers of four‐year‐old children attending a for‐profit preschool. None of the teachers held a formal degree. The second study was conducted with two teachers of four‐year‐old children attending a public school preschool. Both teachers were certified teachers, but one held a degree in elementary education and the other held a degree in early childhood education. The differences between the teachers with varying levels and types of education are highlighted. The elementary degreed teacher and the three non‐degreed teachers shared similar characteristics. The specific similarities and differences are discussed. The conclusions support the importance of early childhood education for adults who work with young children.
The fundamentals of barriers to reverse engineering and their implementation into mechanical components

Reverse engineering is a common design strategy in industry. It is a term that has come to encompass a large array of engineering and design activities in the literature; however, in its basic form, reverse engineering is simply the process of extracting information about a product from the product itself. Depending on its use, it may or may not be advantageous to utilize a reverse engineering strategy. As with any rational decision, reverse engineering is only favorable when the benefits from its use outweigh the investment. Therefore, a general understanding of the principles that increase the difficulty or investment required to reverse engineer mechanical products would be helpful for everyone affected by reverse engineering activities. In this paper, we articulate and explore these fundamental principles after reviewing examples from the literature and from our own experience. We then use the principles as a basis for the development of a methodology to build barriers to reverse engineering into new products.
The physical origin of the land–ocean contrast in lightning activity

Abstract New tests and older ideas are explored to understand the origin of the pronounced contrast in lightning between land and sea. The behavior of islands as miniature continents with variable area supports the traditional thermal hypothesis over the aerosol hypothesis for lightning control. The substantial land–ocean contrast in updraft strength is supported globally by TRMM (Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission) radar comparisons of mixed phase radar reflectivity. The land–ocean updraft contrast is grossly inconsistent with the land–ocean contrast in CAPE (Convective Available Potential Energy), from the standpoint of parcel theory. This inconsistency is resolved by the scaling of buoyant parcel size with cloud base height, as suggested by earlier investigators. Strongly electrified continental convection is then favored by a larger surface Bowen ratio, and by larger, more strongly buoyant boundary layer parcels which more efficiently transform CAPE to kinetic energy of the updraft in the moist stage of conditional instability. To cite this article: E. Williams, S. Stanfill, C. R. Physique 3 (2002) 1277–1292.
Verification and validation of the Infantry Warrior Simulation (IWARS) through engagement effectiveness modeling and statistical analysis

The United States Military uses simulations extensively in order to conduct detailed cost benefit analysis, facilitate the procurement, development and testing of systems, and to train and educate service members. The models that the military uses are only beneficial as long as they accurately mirror reality based on known data. As combat evolves, simulations must improve at a matched rate in order to stay relevant. Currently, the Infantry Warrior Simulation (IWARS) program has been through limited validation processes concerning its data on body hit distributions in the simulation versus the body hit distributions from actual combat. The IWARS models are developed through firsthand accounts collected through extensive research and stakeholder analysis. Common aspects of current engagements are then combined into a number of scenarios that the project team will simulate through IWARS. The project team will then use statistical analysis to compare the real and virtual data sets to determine to what degree the simulation matches the collected historical data. The project team will run multiple scenarios and trials in order to create statistically significant data. At the conclusion of this research project and through detailed statistical analysis, the design team will validate the IWARS output against historical data.
A new synthesis of 25-hydroxycholesterol

Abstract A simple (η 3 -allyl)palladium-based synthesis of 25-hydroxycholesterol is described using a dimetallated coupling reagent.
Government size, public debt and real economic growth: a panel analysis

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of the size of government and public debt on real economic growth, for a panel of 175 countries around the world.Design/methodology/approach – The paper utilizes the fixed‐effects and random‐effects techniques to estimate the panel regressions.Findings – The results indicate that both the size of government and the extent of government indebtedness have negative effects on economic growth.Practical implications – The findings suggest that the authorities ought to take the necessary steps to curtail excessive government spending and public debts, in order to promote economic growth.Originality/value – The contribution of the paper is its application of the fixed‐ and random‐effects techniques in modeling the relation of real economic growth to the size of government and public debt, for a panel of 175 countries around the world.
Analyzing multiple-probe microarray: estimation and application of gene expression indexes

Gene expression index estimation is an essential step in analyzing multiple probe microarray data. Various modeling methods have been proposed in this area. Amidst all, a popular method proposed in Li and Wong (2001) is based on a multiplicative model, which is similar to the additive model discussed in Irizarry et al. (2003a) at the logarithm scale. Along this line, Hu et al. (2006) proposed data transformation to improve expression index estimation based on an ad hoc entropy criteria and naive grid search approach. In this work, we re-examined this problem using a new profile likelihood-based transformation estimation approach that is more statistically elegant and computationally efficient. We demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method using a benchmark Affymetrix U95A spiked-in experiment. Moreover, We introduced a new multivariate expression index and used the empirical study to shows its promise in terms of improving model fitting and power of detecting differential expression over the commonly used univariate expression index. As the other important content of the work, we discussed two generally encountered practical issues in application of gene expression index: normalization and summary statistic used for detecting differential expression. Our empirical study shows somewhat different findings from the MAQC project (MAQC, 2006).
Design and analysis of physical phantom experiments for serial SPECT brain tumor imaging

The purpose of this paper is to identify several important issues in the statistical analysis of serial images of active brain tumors and to offer some approaches and methods to help resolve them. Current serial brain tumor imaging is very strong on data acquisition and display yet appears weak on data analysis and inference. To help bridge the gap between certain theoretical mathematical methods for medical imaging developed over the past several decades and actual clinical practice, we describe a new physical phantom that we have designed and built for our research. We also offer some extensions of several relevant tools and principles from statistical science to the analysis of our serial medical images. Among the tools we discuss are the physical phantom itself, a simple experimental design, methods that help to separate image registration and object deformation effects, and some simple paired t-test ideas for comparison of differences in spatial point processes generated from pixelwise events in serial images. We identify several sources of extraneous variation between paired images and propose a few simple methods to control or eliminate them. Replicated experiments with our physical phantom can be used to study the properties of these methods under controlled and known conditions. Several actual patient and simulated serial SPECT images help to motivate and illustrate our techniques.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Synthesis and Characterization of Colloidal CuInS2 Nanoparticles from a Molecular Single-Source Precursor

Thermal decomposition of the molecular single-source precursor (PPh3)2CuIn(SEt)4 in the presence of hexanethiol in dioctylphthalate forms colloidal CuInS2 at 200 °C. The colloidal solution displays size-dependent quantum confinement behavior in the absorption and photoluminescence spectra. The average size of the nanocrystals can be increased from 2 to 4 nm by raising the reaction temperature from 200 °C to 250 °C. The nanoparticles are capped with hexanethiol ligands; these ligands can be exchanged with trioctylphosphine oxide or pyridine. The nature of the surface-capping ligands has a significant effect on the photoluminescence emission intensity. Investigation of the effect of synthesis parameters and postsynthesis treatments on the optical properties of the nanocrystals leads to the conclusion that the room-temperature emission originates in donor−acceptor defects.
Glanzmann's Thrombasthenia Complicating Pregnancy.

Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia is a rare autosomal recessive hemorrhagic disorder caused by abnormal platelet glycoprotein complex (GP IIb-IIIa) presenting with hemorrhagic symptoms. Pregnancy is not uncommon because fertility is not affected but an association is rare. Also delivery often results in haemorrhage. Newborn thrombocytopenia is occasionally severe, but is always transitory. We report a 21-year old primigravida, who underwent vaginal delivery at term with IUGR and Oligohydramnios. Glannzmann’s thrombasthenia was characterized by aggregation and this patient went undiagnosed till adolescence until evaluated for puberty menorrhagia which is uncommon. She received single donor platelet transfusion during the intrapartum period along with tranexemic acid. Platelet transfusion may result in alloimmunization and make successive transfusions less effective. We did not use Factor VII in the intrapartum period due to cost and suspected fetal effects. Postnatally she had hematuria settled on the 2nd day with conservative management. We present this case because of association of Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia with IUGR and oligoamnios the only reported case so far.