cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in hydrothermal petroleums from the Guaymas Basin spreading center

Abstract Hydrothermal petroleums from the Guaymas Basin spreading center have been analyzed for their polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) content. The PAH concentrations have been compared to those in crude oils from production reservoirs and in coastal sediments. Hydrothermal petroleums contain higher relative concentrations of unsubstituted PAH than crude oils. However, the PAH concentrations in the hydrothermal petroleums are influenced by differing thermal, mixing and post-depositional alteration processes, resulting in considerable variability. Concentrations of the unsubstituted PAH in the hydrothermal mounds/sediments are comparable to those in sediments from highly polluted and industrial areas. The presence of large concentrations of toxic and carcinogenic PAH in these hydrothermal oils could have toxicological effects on the benthic ecosystems of such vent environments.
The effects of urbanization on the hydrochemistry of base flow within the Chattahoochee River Basin (Georgia, USA)

Summary A comprehensive network of stream data ( n = 50) was used to assess the effects of urbanization upon the hydrochemical variation within base flow in the Chattahoochee River Basin (CRB), Georgia (USA). Base flow solute concentrations (particularly sulfate, chloride, bicarbonate alkalinity, and sodium) increase with the degree of urbanization and any degree of urbanization within the Atlanta Metropolitan Region (AMR) results in elevated base flow solute concentrations. This suggests that there are pervasive low-level non-point sources of contamination such as septic tanks systems and leaky sewer lines affecting the chemistry of shallow groundwater throughout much of the AMR and CRB. Six groups or subsets representing the “rural-to-urban gradient” were defined, characterized by the following order of increasing solute concentrations: rural basins r 2 values >0.79) between Na–K–Cl within the CRB that likely reflects the widespread input of electrolytes present in human wastes and wastewater. The most likely source and pathway for contaminant input involves the mobilization of salts, originally present in waste water, within the riparian or hypoheric zone.
Length‐Weight Relationships of Six New England Flatfishes

Abstract Length-weight equations are presented for six New England flatfishes: yellowtail flounder, Limanda ferruginea (Storer); winter flounder, Pseudopleuronectes americanus (Walbaum); American plaice, Hippoglossoides platessoides (Fabricius); witch flounder, Glyptocephalus cynoglossus (Linnaeus); fourspot flounder, Paralichthys oblongus (Mitchill); and windowpane, Scophthalmus aquosus (Mitchill).
Physiological, subjective and behavioral responses to hyperventilation in clinical and infrequent panic

This study investigated the physiological, subjective and behavioral responses to hyperventilation of four groups of Ss with: (1) clinical panic disorder (n = 13); (2) infrequent panic (n = 16); (3) no panic and high trait anxiety (n = 16); and (4) no panic and low trait anxiety. After completing a number of anxiety-related questionnaires, Ss participated in 2 min of hyperventilation during which heart rate and electrodermal activity were recorded continuously. Subjective sensations and cognitions during hyperventilation were assessed immediately following the task. After recovery, Ss could participate in a second, optional hyperventilation from which they could escape at any time. Analyses revealed no group differences in physiological responses to the hyperventilation, although group differences in subjective sensations and cognitions were found. Data are discussed with regards to the role of physiological processes vs subjective responses to anxiety-provoking stimuli in the psychopathology of clinical panic disorder.
Sensitivity of the spectral induced polarization method to microbial enhanced oil recovery processes

ABSTRACTThe demand for more efficient and economic oil recovery techniques has driven research into novel extraction approaches, including microbial enhanced methods. Microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) is an underutilized technology that could significantly enhance tertiary oil recovery. Previous research has shown the spectral induced polarization (SIP) method to be sensitive to microbial degradation of hydrocarbons, so the method should therefore be sensitive to MEOR treatments. To test this hypothesis, heavy-oil-containing sands were monitored for a period of approximately six months while undergoing MEOR treatment. SIP monitoring showed significant sensitivity to biodegradation induced changes. Increases in phase and imaginary conductivity, with a polarization peak centered on approximately 3–8 Hz, were observed for the two MEOR active columns. Similarly, the normalized chargeability, an integrated parameter of a Debye decomposition analysis of the spectra, showed a linear increase in time. Chroma...
Postmenopausal hormone therapy: A concise guide to therapeutic uses, formulations, risks, and alternatives

Postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy is helpful in relieving menopausal vasomotor symptoms and vaginal atrophy and can prevent osteoporosis; however, attendant risks include breast cancer, thromboembolism, gallbladder disease, stroke, CHD, dementia, and hypertriglyceridemia. Decision making must weigh these risks and benefits and also include potential benefits on mood, colorectal cancer prevention, and hip fracture reduction. Some areas, such as ovarian cancer risk and the impact of combination estrogen-progestin versus unopposed estrogen on risk, remain unclear. The physician and patient need to carefully assess, discuss, and monitor the individual's symptoms and risks when considering HT use. For those with contraindications or concerns about HT, there are alternative therapies of variable efficacy for vasomotor symptoms and vaginal atrophy.
Making experience work: The grid® approach to critique

This article presents a review of the book “Making Experience Work: The Grid Approach to Critique,” by Robert R. Blake and Jane Srygley Mouton.
Effect of High-Urea Supplementation on Feed Intake and Milk Production of Dairy Cows

Abstract Two experiments were conducted to study the effects of urea on ration palatability, milk yield, and economy of nitrogen utilization. In Experiment 1 concentrate acceptability was studied with 20 cows assigned to two 5 × 5 Latin squares balanced for residual effects. Addition of 2.2 and 2.7% urea and 15.9 and 19.0% corn cobs to the concentrates significantly (P
Adhesion of an Elastic Convex Shell onto a Rigid Plate

An elastic spherical shell is compressed between two parallel rigid plates and undergoes large geometrical deformation. The convex surface conforms and adheres to the plates. The shell profile and contact stresses under large deformation are obtained numerically using a finite difference method. A thermodynamic energy balance following the classical Johnson-Kendall-Roberts (JKR) model is established to construct the adhesion mechanics, such that the sum of potential energy of the external load, elastic energy stored in the elastic shell, and surface energy to create new surface is minimized. Interrelationship between applied load, approach distance, contact radius, and deformed profile, as well as the “pull-off” phenomenon, are derived. A comparison is made between this model and existing models for a solid sphere in the literature.
DISRUPTIVE EFFECTS OF CONTINGENT FOOD ON HIGH-PROBABILITY BEHAVIOR

The delivery of food contingent on 10 s of consecutive toy engagement resulted in a decrease in engagement and a corresponding increase in other responses that had been previously reinforced with food. Similar effects were not observed when tokens exchangeable for the same food were delivered, suggesting that engagement was disrupted by the contingent provision of the food, which may have functioned as a discriminative stimulus that occasioned competing responses.
Evolution of the Phenomenon of Drug-Resistance. II. Studies of the Extracellular and Intracellular Derivatives of Folic Acid in Relation to Resistance to Sulphathiazole and Growth Factor Requirements

This study is a continuation of the results published previously (Sevag & Ishii 1958). It surveys quantitatively the extracellular and intracellular accumulation of p-aminobenzoic acid (PAB), pteridine, folic acid (FA) and citrovorum factor (CF) of the various sulphathiazole (ST)-sensitive and ST-resistant strains of Escherichia coli grown with and without ST. The altered enzymic activities of the resistant strain with respect to growth factor requirement is also determined. The following observations are made. The utilization of the exogenous PAB by the PAB-dependent strain is followed by the multiplication of cells. These events are followed by the extracellular accumulation of FA first and then CF. This pattern applies to other strains of E. coli and is in accordance with the well-known sequence of steps involved in the synthesis of PAB, pteridine, FA, CF and growth. It is shown that PAB accumulates principally extracellularly, and pteridine principally intracellularly. The synthesis of FA by the resistant strain is at least tenfold more resistant to ST than in the sensitive strain. In the resistant strain there is a greater intracellular than extracellular accumulation of FA and CF. In the sensitive strain this relationship is reversed. The resistant strains are inheritably capable of synthesizing greater amounts of pteridine, FA and CF. The PAB-dependent ST-sensitive strain can utilize a combination of 1-methionine and any of the purines, of 1-methionine alone, or vitamin B$_{12}$ alone in place of PAB for a partial or full growth. The related resistant strain, on the other hand, is unable to multiply in the salts-glucose medium with and without PAB. It requires a combination of 1-methionine and glycine for growth which cannot be replaced by any of the factors mentioned above. This requirement of the resistant strain for growth is analyzed as a deficiency of the enzymic transmethylations and transhydroxymethylation involving the function of CF in the resistant strain.
Hydrogenation of Weakly Rehybridized Ethylene on Fe(100)−H: Ethyl Group Formation

The bonding and reactivity of ethylene on hydrogen presaturated Fe(100) has been investigated using temperature programmed reaction spectroscopy (TPRS) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). Hydrogen preadsorbed on Fe(100) limits the extent of electron back-donation to coadsorbed ethylene, resulting in weak rehybridization relative to adsorption on clean Fe(100). Adsorption at 100 K leads to rehybridization intermediate between the sp2 gas phase species and the nearly sp3 di-σ bound ethylene on clean Fe(100), as indicated by πσ parameters of 0.58 (0.53 for C2D4). Migratory insertion of coadsorbed hydrogen into this adsorbed ethylene occurs below 170 K; vibrational spectroscopy positively identifies the intermediate formed as surface ethyl groups.
Examination of Frameworks for Safe Integration of Intelligent Small UAS into the NAS

This paper discusses a proposed framework for the safe integration of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) into the National Airspace System (NAS). The paper briefly examines the potential uses of sUAS to build an understanding of the location and frequency of potential future flight operations based on the future applications of the sUAS systems. The paper then examines the types of systems that would be required to meet the application-level demand to determine "classes" of platforms and operations. A framework for categorization of the "intelligence" level of the UAS is postulated for purposes of NAS integration. Finally, constraints on the intelligent systems are postulated to ensure their ease of integration into the NAS.
Supporting valid interpretations of learning progression level diagnoses

Assessments associated with learning progressions are designed to provide diagnostic information about the level and nature of student understanding. Valid interpretations of such diagnoses are only possible when students consistently express the ideas associated with a single learning progression level. Latent class analysis was employed to evaluate whether patterns of expected responses to diagnostic multiple-choice items afforded valid interpretations of learning progression level diagnoses. Results indicated that students with scientifically accurate understanding of the forces acting on an object with constant speed usually reasoned systematically across items, but many other students did not. Consequently, interpretations of learning progression level diagnoses on a proposed learning progression would often be invalid. Analyses of this sort would be useful in developing and validating future learning progressions. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 46: 699–715, 2009
Histopathologic observations after short-term implantation of two porous elastomers in dogs

Abstract This report describes the effects of pore size and material on soft tissue ingrowth of two medical-grade elastomers. Using the replamineform process, silicone rubber (SR) and bioelectric Polyurethane (BEP) were rendered microporous with essentially the same microstructural pore configuration. Implants were prepared in each material having five pore size ranges: 18–25μm, 30–45μm, 75–95 μm, 60–120 μm, and 120–180 μm. Implants 1 cm × 1 cm × 1mm were harvested at 1, 2, 4 and 12 weeks following subcutaneous implantation in mongrel dogs. Ingrowth of the 18–25 μm and 30–45μm implants in both polymers consisted of histiocytes and dispersed fibrocytic proliferation during the first two weeks. By 12 weeks, the fibrocytic component had increased, but histiocytes remained the principal component of ingrown tissue. In contrast, initial ingrowth of the 75–95 μm, 60–120 μm and 120–180 μm implants showed increased fibrocytic proliferation and minimal histiocytic reaction. By 12 weeks, ingrowth into the larger-pore implants had progressed to broad bands of well organized collagenous stroma. Differences in the rate of tissue ingrowth were found to be related to both material and pore size. Less than 15% of the void spaces were infiltrated by 4 weeks in 18–25 μm and 30–45μm SR implants, although this increased to approximately 50% by 12 weeks. In contrast, the 3 larger-pore SR implants and all pore sizes in the BEP implants were almost completely ingrown by 4 weeks.
Graduate music education as a site for reconfiguring curriculum development

Curriculum scholars in music education have identified themes and issues to be addressed in reconceptualizing the music curriculum and moving beyond prescriptive and technical models of curriculum planning. Curriculum development courses designed for novice and experienced teachers enrolled in graduate studies serve as sites in which teachers can examine their assumptions about music teaching and learning, think deeply about the school settings where the curriculum is situated, reflect upon the challenges that face the contemporary music classroom, analyze and interpret curricular models and initiatives that address those challenges, and synthesize these insights to design imaginative and compelling musical experiences for students. Graduate study can serve as a catalyst for teachers' professional development, and a cornerstone for the advancement of curricular discourse in music education.
THE CONCEPTS OF MONEY AND COMMERCIAL BANKS

AN EXPERT MECHANIC can diagnose the problems of an engine by listening to what is only a noise to the untrained ear. A gourmet can identify sauces and their ingredients by differences in taste. Expertise and sophistication are associated with this ability to detect subtle characteristics and relationships that go unrecognized by the less knowledgeable. This skill, developed by training and experience, differentiates the expert from the novice. Yet recent economic thought seems to be moving toward the elimination of two traditional professional distinctions-between money and near money and between commercial banks and other types of financial institutions. Since the attacks on these concepts come from some of the most sophisticated members of the profession, the question must be faced as to whether their arguments call for the elimination of these distinctions or whether the attacks merely reflect overenthusiastic expository techniques for calling attention to errors arising from the old distinctions. The usefulness of the concept of money as a medium of exchange has not been seriously questioned. The debate arises as to whether its properties as a medium of exchange give it a unique, role as an economic variable. Historically, money attracted attention as: an economic force by virtue of spectacular variations in its supply. Perhaps the strongest argument for its treatment as a separate variable still rests on the fact that the supply is controlled by special rules and institutions. Ironically the analysis of the role of monetary authorities has itself undermined the definition of money. Analysts, unable to ignore time deposits in tracing the effects of monetary actions, have tended to broaden the definition of money to include them.' But this definition destroys the uniqueness of the money concept and opens the door to other less justifiable additions.2 The Keynesian emphasis on the motivations for holding money called attention to the importance of the public's attitude toward money as an asset and has raised two additional argumentsfor questioning the uniqueness of money. First, the many similarities between money and other forms of financial assets suggested that the distinction is one of degree rather than of kind. Second, a number of economists have stressed the role of the public's desire to hold
Forensic accounting education: insights from academicians and certified fraud examiner practitioners

Current initiatives in accounting education, while focusing on the importance of accounting instruction and teaching students how to learn, emphasize continuous lifelong learning and outcome‐based assessment. The public interest in forensic accounting, especially fraud investigation, has encouraged the accounting profession to consider issuing new standards on fraud detection. Presents a study which aims to examine current coverage and future direction and role of forensic accounting education. Describes a survey of both academicians and certified fraud examiner (CFE) practitioners. Concludes that: the demand for forensic accounting education and practice will continue to increase and that forensic accounting education should be integrated into accounting curricula either as a separate course or through modules in accounting and auditing courses.
3,6-Substituted-1,2,4,5-tetrazines: tuning reaction rates for staged labeling applications

Cycloaddition reactions involving tetrazines have proven to be powerful bioorthogonal tools for various applications. Conceivably, sequential and selective labeling using tetrazine-based reactions can be achieved by tuning the reaction rate. By varying the substituents on tetrazines, cycloaddition rate variations of over 200 fold have been achieved with the same dienophile. Upon coupling with different dienophiles, such as norbornene, the reaction rate difference can be over 14 000 fold. These substituted tetrazines can be very useful for selective labeling under different conditions.
Using the current seasonal cycle to constrain snow albedo feedback in future climate change

[1] Differences in simulations of climate feedbacks are sources of significant divergence in climate models' temperature response to anthropogenic forcing. Snow albedo feedback is particularly critical for climate change prediction in heavily-populated northern hemisphere land masses. Here we show its strength in current models exhibits a factor-of-three spread. These large intermodel variations in feedback strength in climate change are nearly perfectly correlated with comparably large intermodel variations in feedback strength in the context of the seasonal cycle. Moreover, the feedback strength in the real seasonal cycle can be measured and compared to simulated values. These mostly fall outside the range of the observed estimate, suggesting many models have an unrealistic snow albedo feedback in the seasonal cycle context. Because of the tight correlation between simulated feedback strength in the seasonal cycle and climate change, eliminating the model errors in the seasonal cycle will lead directly to a reduction in the spread of feedback strength in climate change. Though this comparison to observations may put the models in an unduly harsh light because of uncertainties in the observed estimate that are difficult to quantify, our results map out a clear strategy for targeted observation of the seasonal cycle to reduce divergence in simulations of climate sensitivity.
Changing causes of death in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: 20 years of progress

Background Patients with FAP are at risk of dying from multiple benign and malignant tumors, from surgical complications, and comorbid diseases. We previously evaluated and published causes of death in FAP patients in 1990. This study analyzes patterns of mortality in the ensuing 2 decades and compares the two time periods to determine if advances in medicine and technology have changed clinical outcomes.
Whole Body Response of the Moon to Electromagnetic Induction by the Solar Wind

A comparison has been made of the interplanetary magnetic field as measured both by Apollo 12 on the lunar surface and by Explorer 35 in orbit around the moon. Two examples are given, one of a step change in the field vector and another of a sinusoidally varying field. A large response measured on the surface is attributed to confinement of the induced field lines between the streaming solar plasma and the high-conductivity interior. A steep bulk electrical conductivity gradient in the lunar crust is implied, with a confining layer roughly 100 kilometers deep.
The Blalock-Taussig Shunt in the Neonate

Abstract With improvements in the techniques of microvascular surgery, the Blalock-Taussig shunt has been applied to smaller infants. We report our experience in 17 neonates (mean age 9 days, mean weight 3.2 kg) who underwent emergency shunt operations. The early mortality was 17.6% (3 of 17), with only 1 death (7%) from renal failure and sepsis, in the last 14 patients. Three shunts were patent but inadequate and required a secondary procedure, which was successful in all 3. There were 3 patients with late shunt failures at a mean of 15 months postoperatively, while 2 are still doing well at 15 and 18 months. No patients developed congestive cardiac failure. The late mortality was high (5 of 14), but was due to late shunt failure and was preventable in only 1 patient. These results are encouraging, and we continue to perform the Blalock-Taussig shunt in neonates. It is hoped that improvements in technique will reduce the incidence of inadequate shunts.
Success and safety of same-day kidney biopsy in children and adolescents

Renal biopsy is crucial for the diagnosis, management, and monitoring of many kidney diseases. Although percutaneous renal biopsy is considered a routine safe procedure in children, the optimal length of in-hospital observation following the procedure is not yet known. We prospectively studied two comparable groups of children to compare the success and safety of performing native renal biopsy as an outpatient procedure versus keeping the children hospitalized post biopsy. Doppler ultrasonography of the biopsied kidney was performed approximately 2 weeks after the procedure. For 40 children the biopsy was performed on a same-day basis (study group) and another 15 children were kept for overnight observation (control group). All biopsies yielded adequate tissue for histopathological diagnosis. There was no difference between the two groups in the amount of reported pain and analgesics used after the procedure. Only 1 child in the study group was readmitted 5 days after the biopsy for 48 h, but no major complications were detected. The incidence of post-biopsy intra- or perirenal hematoma detection by sonography was not statistically different between the two groups (39% study group, 43% control group). Follow-up imaging studies were performed on 10 of the 20 children who had an early post-biopsy hematoma and all were completely normal. Patients and their families appreciated being discharged home the same day. In addition, total charges for hospitalization were significantly less for the study group than the control group. We conclude that in selected patients, same-day discharge after renal biopsy may be performed safely without an increased risk of complications.
Formation of nucleoside 5'-phosphoramidates under potentially prebiological conditions

Adenosine 5'-phosphoramidates form when solutions containing adenosine 5'-polyphosphates pnA (n greater than or equal to 3) or P1, P2-diadenosine 5'-diphosphate and amines are allowed to dry out. Mg ions catalyze these reactions. We have studied systems containing ammonia, imidazole, glycine, ethylenediamine and histamine. The yields of adenosine 5'-phosphoramidates range from 10-50% based on the nucleotide. The prebiotic significance of the reactions is discussed.
Effects of Conducting Instruction on the Musical Performance of Beginning Band Students

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of conducting instruction on 151 beginning band students' individual rhythmic performance, group rhythmic performance, group performance of ...
VIBRATION ANALYSIS OF A BRAKE MECHANISM: MODELING, SIMULATION AND EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS

In this paper, an approach for identifying a model capable of representing the dynamics of the brake mechanism is presented. Experimentally acquired in-plane vibrations of the pad were an- alyzed using the non-linear dynamics method of Lyapunov ex- ponents in order to characterize the system behavior. Friction- induced vibrations were then studied via the associated 4 DOF theoretical model of the brake system. Numerical simulations demonstrated that for a set of system parameters, a certain value of the slope of the mathematical characteristic between the dy- namic friction coefficient and relative velocity, triggers the expo- nential growth of instability with an envelope in good agreement with that approximated from the experimental data. The results obtained from this study provide new insights into brake dynam- ics and the associated instability mechanisms.
Assessing the statistical effectiveness of ecological experiments: utility of the coefficient of variation

The coefficient of variation (C.V.) is a statistic often used to assess the effectiveness of ecological experiments. Characteristics of C.V. behavior over time are illustrated with examples of a chemical variable (pH) and species density measurements. The ratio s/|xi — xj| is introduced, and a “quick‐and‐dirty” rule for a two‐sample t‐test is illustrated with data from microcosm experiments. Relationships among the C.V., minimum detectable distances between means, and statistical power of a test of hypothesis are discussed. Tabular and graphical results are presented for selected small sample sizes. Several examples with data from microcosm experiments are also given. The utility of the C.V. is considerably enhanced by the use of these statistical relationships.
Discrete and fast Fourier transformations on N-dimensional lattices

The N-dimensional discrete Fourier transform (DFT) may be represented as a matrix of elements of unit magnitude, with the arguments constructed as inner products of lattice vectors in the sampling and wavenumber domains, filling regions inverse to the basic cells on their respective lattices. The fast Fourier transform numerical technique is directly applicable to this configuration.
A new intralaryngeal approach for arytenoidectomy in the treatment of bilateral abductor vocal cord paralysis.

ONE of the serious complications of thyroidectomy is bilateral vocal cord paralysis which results from injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerves. Havens (1) has previously stated that “one of the recognized hazards of thyroidectomy is the possibility that a recurrent laryngeal nerve may be injured and cause paralysis of the corresponding vocal cord. Because of certain variable factors such as anomalous situation of the recurrent laryngeal nerve or its displacement by tumor, this complication is encountered in a small percentage of cases following thyroidectomy regardless of the skill of the surgeon and in spite of his utmost care to avoid it.” Unilateral vocal cord paralysis is not a serious complication, since it causes no respiratory obstruction and the immediate hoarseness which results soon disappears if the paralyzed vocal cord assumes a position at or near the median line so that the opposite normal vocal cord then can make contact with it on phonation. A paralyzed vocal cord may assume a position in...
What makes a medical student avoid or enter a career in urology? Results of an international survey.

ABSTRACT Purpose: To recruit the best and brightest medical students, it is crucial to understand what causes a medical student to pursue or avoid a career in urology. We performed a survey of 2 cohorts of residency applicants to elucidate these determinants. Materials and Methods: All 410 applicants to the 2003–2004 United States urology residency match and all 624 individuals who applied to a Boston-area emergency medicine (EM) residency program were invited to participate in the study. The on-line survey for the urology applicants asked the research question “What caused you to pursue the specialty of urology?” The EM applicant survey asked the research question “What caused you NOT to pursue a career in a surgical subspecialty, such as urology?” Qualitative responses were analyzed for themes by 2 researchers and independently coded. Results: Sixty percent (248 of 410) of urology applicants and 40% (252 of 624) of EM applicants completed the survey. Thematic coding of the qualitative responses yielded an inter-rater agreement of 89% to 94%. Positive determinants cited by urology applicants included the mix of medicine/surgery, the diversity of urological procedures, and clinical exposure to the field. Negative determinants cited by EM applicants included the narrowness of the specialty, an unattractive lifestyle, and the demands of a surgical residency. No significant correlations were noted between themes cited and participants’ genders, degrees or medical school nationalities. Conclusions: Ensuring that medical students have clinical exposure to urology, receive appropriate mentorship, and develop realistic perceptions of the specialty may substantially facilitate recruitment.
Single- and multiobjective optimization problems in robust parameter design

This paper reviews the evolution of off-line quality engineering methods with respect to one or more quality criteria, and presents some recent results. The fundamental premises that justify the use of robust product/process design are established with an illustrative example. The use of designed experiments to model quality criteria and their optimization is briefly reviewed. The fact that most design-for-quality problems involve multiple quality criteria motivates the development of multiobjective optimization techniques for robust parameter design. Two situations are considered: one in which response surface models for the quality characteristics can be obtained using regression and considered over a continuous factor space, and one in which the problem scenario and the experiment permit only discrete parameter settings for the design factors. In the former scenario, a multiobjective optimization technique based on the reference-point method is presented; this technique also incorporates an inference mechanism to deal with uncertainty in the response surface models caused by finite, noisy data. In the discrete-factors scenario, an efficient method to reduce computational complexity for a class of models is presented.
Double Integration Using One-Dimensional Adaptive Quadrature Routines: A Software Interface Problem

A software interface problem occurs when two or more items of software are used in conjunction with one another. If proper advantage of using good software is to be gained, the user has to connect them properly. In this paper the problem of double integration employing two similar one-dimensional adaptive quadrature routines is considered. If an absolute error no greater than epsilon/sub T/ in the final result is desired, it is necessary to determine what tolerance parameter epsilon/sub o/ to assign to the outer routine and what tolerance parameters epsilon/sub Ii/ to assign for calls to the inner routine. Since it is not known at the outset how many times the inner routine will be calledm there is required what is termed an accuracy-assignment strategy for determining epsilon/sub iI/. In this paper two simple accuracy assignment strategies are discussed in detail. It is shown that one of them can be unstable if the outer routine is constructed internally by one way (local error control), but that it is quite stable if it is constructed in another way (global error control). It is also found that one of the strategies is marginally more efficient for visually smooth integrands, while the othermore » is significantly more efficient for peaked integrands.« less
Web-based teaching in point-of-care ultrasound: an alternative to the classroom?

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate two educational methods for point-of-care ultrasound (POC US) in order to: 1) determine participant test performance and attitudes in using POC US and 2) compare cost and preparation time to run the courses. METHODS: This was a pilot study conducted at a county teaching hospital. Subjects were assigned to participate in either a large group course with live classroom lectures (Group A) or a group asked to watch 4.5 hours of online prerecorded lectures (Group B). Both groups participated in small-group hands-on training after watching the lectures. Both groups took a pre- and post-course exam, and completed course surveys. Cost and time spent running the courses were also compared. RESULTS: Forty-seven physicians participated in the study. The pre-test and post-test scores between the two groups did not differ significantly. Of those with prior ultrasound experience, the majority of both groups preferred to continue classroom-based teaching for future courses. Interestingly, in the groups who had no ultrasound experience prior to their course participation, there was a higher percentage who preferred web-based teaching. Lastly, Group B was shown to have the potential to take less preparatory time when compared to Group A. CONCLUSION: A web-based curriculum in POC US appears to be a promising and potentially time saving alternative to live classroom lectures and seems to offer similar educational benefits for the postgraduate learner.
Hyenas and heteroglossia: myth and ritual among the Beng of Côte d'Ivoire

By focusing on how the Beng depict hyenas in oral literature and how they treat living hyenas in ritual activities, this article explores how each of these domains makes radically different statements about a single subject. In both cases, hyenas represent a form of subversion of society, but the value such subversion is given contrasts dramatically in the two realms under discussion. Bakhtin's concept of “heteroglossia” is used as a model for analyzing how two distinct realms of meaning in a single society may exist in mutual contradiction. [symbolic anthropology, myth, ritual, animal symbolism, laughter, West Africa]
Enhanced Characterization of Niobium Surface Topography

Surface topography characterization is a continuing issue for the superconducting radio frequency (SRF) particle accelerator community. Efforts are under way to both improve surface topography and its characterization and analysis using various techniques. In measurement of topography, power spectral density (PSD) is a promising method to quantify typical surface parameters and develop scale-specific interpretations. PSD can also be used to indicate how the process modifies topography at different scales. However, generating an accurate and meaningful topographic PSD of an SRF surface requires careful analysis and optimization. In this report, niobium surfaces with different process histories are sampled with atomic force microscopy and stylus profilometry and analyzed to trace topography evolution at different scales. An optimized PSD analysis protocol to serve SRF needs is presented.
An extension of a theory of magnetic amplifiers

Abstract A theory of operation of certain magnetic amplifiers, previously presented, is extended, in the case of secondaries with infinite a-c. impedance to be valid for large input currents.The second harmonic output is shown to deviate from linearity (with d-c. input) and pass through a maximum as the direct current is increased.Some experimental evidence is given to support the calculations.The influence of a third harmonic term in the primary current (not considered in the simple theory) is also investigated. It is shown that for small input currents no serious error is introduced by neglecting the higher harmonic.
Partnering with foreign businesses: perspectives from Chinese firms

Abstract This study examines what Chinese firms are looking for from foreign partner contributions. It identifies strategic, organizational, and financial attributes that are important to Chinese business satisfaction with the performance of international cooperative ventures (ICVs). It finds that a foreign partner's strategic attributes, namely technological capability, foreign market power, and international marketing expertise, and its organizational attributes, including managerial skills and organizational reputation, are positively associated with ICV performance as perceived by Chinese firms. By contrast, financial attributes are not important to Chinese partners. Different from foreign firms in organizational contingencies and institutional constraints, Chinese firms are asymmetrical with foreign firms in terms of strategic needs for ICV formation and partner selection criteria. They select foreign partners based upon market expansion and knowledge acquisition considerations rather than transaction cost concerns.
Association of airway abnormalities and risk factors in 37 subglottic stenosis patients.

OBJECTIVES: The study objective is to characterize the airway abnormalities in a series of patients with subglottic stenosis (SGS) as they relate to etiology and risk factors. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective review, academic medical center. Airway characteristics, patient demographics, and suspected risk factors were recorded from a database of SGS cases from 2001 to 2004. RESULTS: Thirty-seven patients with SGS were identified; 22 of 37 had isolated SGS (59%). Intubation (10 of 37, 27%), high tracheotomy (4 of 37, 11%), and reflux (5 of 37, 14%) comprised the bulk of cases; 13 of 37 (35%) were considered idiopathic. Of 22 patients with isolated SGS, the majority 18 of 22 (P = 0.06) were women, 59% of which were idiopathic. Multiple-level cases (0 of 15) were idiopathic (P < 0.001). Intubation was the most common cause of multiple site stenosis (6 of 15, 40%). CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients in this study had isolated lesions. These patients tend to have no apparent risk factors. Multi-level cases are associated with prolonged intubation and known injuries. The nature of "idiopathic" stenoses is discussed. SIGNIFICANCE: Clinical examination of SGS may be meaningful in understanding the etiology of the stenosis.
Electronic thermal conductivity of a superconducting indium-chromium alloy film

Measurements have been made of the electronic thermal conductivity of a quench-condensed film of an indium-chromium alloy. The results are compared with calculations based on Shiba's theory of superconductors containing magnetic impurities by using ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{0}$ (the normalized position in the energy gap of the excited state associated with a single impurity atom) as an adjustable parameter. The data are in good agreement with the theory for a value ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{0}=0.7$.
Predicting molding forces during sheet molding compound (SMC) compression molding. I: Model development

Because of its high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and low cost, Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) production offers great potential for growth in the automotive and trucking industry. Much attention is now being given to improving the economy of SMC compression molding by reducing the cycle time required to produce acceptable parts in steady production. One of the fastest-growing applications of Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) compression molding panels is the manufacture of truck body panels. Owing to their large size, the molding forces developed are substantial and have a major influence in the molding cycle. The relevant process models for SMC flow are reviewed and a procedure is developed that can be used to obtain the closing force and calculate the needed material parameters. Experiments were done using commercially made SMC to verify the validity of this model and the compression force was predicted and compared to experimental values for commercially made automotive hoods.
Optimal fields for problems with delays

The theory of optimal fields is developed for optimal control problems in which the state variables are solutions of integral equations with delayed arguments. The maximum principle obtained reflects the effects of the delay in the control argument. The Hamilton-Jacobi equations are derived for this problem.
Angioembolization: Indications, Approach and Optimal Use

Angioembolization has revolutionized the management of pelvic-fracture-related hemorrhage. Along with pelvic immobilization and preperitoneal pelvic packing, angioembolization is an integral component in multidisciplinary algorithms for achieving hemostasis in severe pelvic trauma. Polytrauma, especially associated intraperitoneal injuries, adds to the complexity and complicates decisions related to the optimal care for these patients in hemorrhagic shock. The indications, timing, location, and technique for angioembolization differ based on available resources and expertise. Regional, institutional, and personal preferences add further variation to practice patterns and outcomes. While complications are associated with pelvic angioembolization, the actual causal relationship is questionable. Furthermore, angioembolization is frequently a life-saving maneuver without an effective alternative treatment. The wealth of recent literature will be pieced together to define the role that angioembolization should play in the management of pelvic fracture-related hemorrhage.
Investigation of Batten disease with the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

The CLN3 gene, which encodes the protein whose absence is responsible for Batten disease, the most common inherited neurovisceral storage disease of childhood, was identified in 1995. The function of the protein, Cln3p, still remains elusive. We previously cloned the Saccharomyces cerevisiae homolog to the human CLN3 gene, designated BTN1, whose product is 39% identical and 59% similar to Cln3p. We report that yeast strains lacking Btn1p, btn1-Delta deletion yeast strains, are more resistant to d-(-)-threo-2-amino-1-[p-nitrophenyl]-1,3-propanediol (ANP), in a pH-dependent manner. This phenotype is complemented in yeast by the human CLN3 gene. In addition, point mutations characterized in CLN3 from individuals with less severe forms of Batten disease, when introduced into BTN1, altered the degree of ANP resistance. Severity of Batten disease due to mutations in CLN3 and the degree of ANP resistance in yeast are related when the equivalent amino acid replacements in Cln3p and Btn1p are compared. These results indicate that yeast can be used as a model for the study of Batten disease.
Differential morphologic effects of two fractions from fetal calf muscle on cultured chick ciliary ganglion cells.

Abstract An extract of fetal calf striated muscle was found to support the survival, growth and differentiation of chick ciliary ganglion neurons in dissociated cell culture. The active material was precipitated in a single fraction by 35–60% ammonium sulfate. When this active fraction was passed over a concanavalin A-Sepharose column, only a portion of the activity was bound to the column and could be eluted by high salt. Both the bound and unbound fractions supported long-term neuronal survival and enhanced the neurons' capacity for acetylcholine synthesis. The two active fractions induced distinctly different morphologies in the cultures. The bound, salt-eluted fraction resulted in the extension of long, narrow multiply branched neurites with frequent varicosities, but it failed to support non-neuronal survival. The unbound, flow-through fraction caused the neurons to extend processes which aligned with each other and with the non-neuronal cells in dense networks. Striated muscle may thus possess the capacity to send more than one signal to modulate the development as well as maintain the survival of motor neurons.
Cadmium, copper and zinc interactions with marine humus as a function of ligand structure.

Abstract The interactions in seawater of cadmium, copper, and zinc with natural levels of marine humus (fulvic and humic acids) were studied using differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV). Interactions with Cu were also examined by ultraviolet spectrophotometry. The degree of interaction relates to the structure of the particular fulvic or humic acid tested. Marine fulvic and humic acids with different equivalent weights and varying degrees of aromaticity and heteroatom substitution were tested to assess the relative importance of these fundamental structural features in determining the degree of interaction. An index of heteroatom substitution, derived from proton magnetic resonance spectra of these materials, when combined with equivalent weights correlated with the nature and degree of metal interaction. Both marine fulvic and humic acids appreciably interacted with Zn. In contrast, the extent of interaction of fulvic acids with Cu appears to be related to their structure while humic acids appear to interact with Cu regardless of structure. Cadmium interacts only with mature, highly crosslinked humic acids.
Acid phosphatase: defining a role in androgen-independent prostate cancer.

Abstract Objectives. In multivariable analysis, post-therapy change in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was shown to be the most significant factor predictive of survival in patients with androgen-independent prostate cancer. To refine the model, we studied the patterns of change in acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase after treatment. Methods. One hundred seven patients with androgen-independent prostate cancer treated on seven different protocols in Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center were evaluated. For tumor-specific (acid phosphatase and PSA) and nontumor-specifc (alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase) enzymes, a minimum 50% or 80% decrease from baseline documented on three separate occasions a minimum of 6 weeks apart was required to categorize a patient as having a decline. Results. Nineteen patients (18%) had either a 50% decline in acid phosphatase or PSA, of whom 13 (68%) had a decline of both markers. Six (32%) patients showed discordance between the two parameters. Declines in PSA level typically preceded declines in acid phosphatase levels. The median survival of patients showing declines in both markers exceeded that of patients showing declines in PSA alone by 1 year. Although baseline measurements of alkaline phosphatase or lactate dehydrogenase did add additional prognostic information, post-therapy changes did not. Conclusions. Post-therapy declines in PSA and acid phosphatase represent reproducible endpoints for clinical trials in androgen-independent disease. The requirement of a repeated and parallel decline in both markers may improve the results observed by monitoring declines in PSA alone. Monitoring the two parameters may allow the development of models that can be used as surrogate endpoints for response and survival in a disease in which reproducible measurements of response are lacking.