cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Prevention of neural tube defects by periconceptional use of folic acid.

1. Mohammad Masud Iqbal, MD, MPH, MSPH* 1. 2. *Department of Epidemiology & International Health, School of Public Health, The University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL. After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Identify today’s most common vitamin deficiency in women. 2. List the etiology of neural tube defects (NTDs) and its relationship with folic acid. 3. Describe how up to 70% of NTDs can be prevented among women of child-bearing age. 4. Name the diagnostic methods used to detect NTDs. 5. Describe the relationship between increased intake of folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiency. Birth defects are the leading cause of infant mortality and a major contributor to heightened morbidity in the United states. The basic definition of a birth defect is a structural abnormality present at birth. Infant mortality attributable to birth defects has not declined as rapidly as overall infant mortality; from 1968 to 1995, the proportion of infant mortality due to birth defects increased from 14.5% to 22.2%. It has been estimated that approximately 20% to 25% of all birth defects are due to gene mutations, 5% to 10% to chromosomal abnormalities, and another 5% to 10% to exposure to a known teratogenic agent (such as prescription drugs, chemicals, or radiation) or a maternal factor. Together, these percentages account for only 30% to 40% of birth defects, leaving the etiology of more than 50% unexplained. It has been speculated that environmental factors account for no more than 10% of all congenital anomalies. Genetic factors are responsible for 30% of pediatric hospital admissions. Birth defects rank somewhere between second and fifth among causes of death in children younger than 1 year of age; 3% to 4% of infants in their first year of life are diagnosed as having major birth defects. Of the 120,000 to 150,000 infants born with serious birth defects each year, approximately 6,000 die during their first 28 days of life and another 2,000 die before reaching their first birthdays. In …
The Times of Ira Hirsh: Multiple Ranges of Auditory Temporal Perception

Ira Hirsh was among the first to recognize that the auditory system does not deal with temporal information in a unitary way across the continuum of time intervals involved in speech processing. He identified the short range (extending from 1 to 20 milliseconds) as that of phase perception, the range between 20 and 100 milliseconds as that in which auditory patterns emerge, and the long range from 100 milliseconds and longer as that of separate auditory events. Furthermore, he also was among the first to recognize that auditory time perception heavily depended on spectral context. A study of the perception of sequences representing different temporal orders of three tones, by Hirsh and the author (e.g., Divenyi and Hirsh, 1978) demonstrated the dependence of auditory sequence perception on both time range and spectral context, and provided a bridge between Hirsh's view of auditory time and Bregman's view of stream segregation. A subsequent search by the author for psychophysical underpinnings of the cocktail-party phenomenon (e.g., Divenyi and Haupt, 1997) suggests that segregation of simultaneous streams of speech might rely on the ability to follow spectral changes in the demisyllabic-to-syllabic (100 to 200 milliseconds) range (i.e., Hirsh's long range).Learning Outcomes: As a result of this activity, the participant will be able to (1) describe the importance of temporal processing in hearing; and (2) identify time ranges where the auditory system will spontaneously adopt different analysis techniques.
LONG-TERM OXIDATION PERFORMANCE OF INGOT-PRODUCED FE3AL ALLOYS

The oxidation performance of ingot-produced Fe-28at.%Al-(2–5)%Cr alloys with minor oxygen-active element additions was examined in long-term exposures at 1,000–1,300°C. As expected for alumina-forming alloys, additions of Zr, Y and Hf improved the oxidation behavior of these alloys. At the lower end of the temperature range, these alloys performed similarly to other iron-base alumina-formers. However, at higher temperatures, scale spallation was increased and significant deformation of the substrate was observed. This type of scale spallation was not observed on other alumina-formers. Oxidation data were used to predict times to breakaway for this temperature range.
A new stationary Hadamard encoding mask for near- infrared Hadamard transform Raman spectrometry

Abstract Near-infrared Hadamard transform Raman spectrometry was performed to demonstrate the advantages gained using a recently developed 255 element polymer-dispersed-liquid-crystal (PDLC) optical-shutter-array as a stationary Hadamard encoding mask. Spectra presented illustrate the improvements the PDLC encoding mask has made in comparison with a 127 element cholesteric liquid crystal display used previously. Examples of the multiplex advantage and a selective multiplex technique are presented and discussed.
The rapid intermembraneous transfer of retinoids

Abstract The intermembraneous rates of retinoid (all- trans -retinol(al), 11- cis -retinol and all- trans -retinol palmitate) transfer from vesicle to vesicle and vesicle to erythrocyte were studied. The rates of transfer of the retinols(al) were exceedingly rapid. The rates of transfer of the retinols(al) from egg phophatidyl choline based SUV's to bovine erythrocytes had a half-time of approximately 1–2 min. The vesicle to vesicle transfer rate was too rapid to measure by conventional techniques. By contrast, all- trans -retinol palmitate did not undergo transfer at an appreciable rate.
Gold nanorod length controls dispersion, local ordering, and optical absorption in polymer nanocomposite films

The dispersion, local orientation and optical absorption of polystyrene (PS, degree of polymerization P) nanocomposites containing PS-grafted gold nanorods (Au NRs, PS degree of polymerization N), with aspect ratios (ν = length/diameter) ranging from 2.5 to 6.3, are studied using quantitative scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical spectroscopy. The experimentally observed nanorod assemblies and optical absorptions are compared with predictions from self-consistent field theory (SCFT) and finite difference time domain (FDTD) calculations, respectively. A pair correlation function for Au NRs is calculated from SEM images, and contains no correlation peaks for P/N = 0.9, indicating nanorods are dispersed within the nanocomposite. Large correlation peaks are observed for P/N = 7.6, representative of interparticle separation distances within nanorod aggregates, which do not vary with ν. On the basis of SCFT calculations, aggregation is attributed to significant depletion-attraction forces in the composite for P/N > 1. When Au NRs disperse, the longitudinal surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) peak red shifts from the visible into the near-IR as ν increases. No shift in the dispersed LSPR position is observed for v = 2.5 and 3.3 upon aggregation because the ratio of the interparticle distance to the nanorod length is too large for surface plasmon coupling. However, for v = 6.3, significant coupling between surface plasmons leads to a blue shift of the LSPR by approximately 140 nm, in agreement with FDTD calculations.
Use of plasma spraying in the production of slide gate plates

This article presents the results of investigations of the production of slide gate plates with the use of plasma spraying. The determination of the possibility in principle of application of protective coatings on the plates and development of the spraying conditions were done on a unit that includes the plasmotron (PVK-50) connected through the manifold with the electrical, gas, and water supply systems and also the feeder for supplying the powder. Specimens of refractory parts of various compositions were used as the bases, and electro-corundum with a grain size of 40-60 ..mu..m both in pure form and in mixtures based on it as the powder for spraying. An analysis of the results obtained shows that the specimens with the coatings have a gas permeability 0.5-1.5 orders of magnitude less than the original bases, and coatings on bases (corundum and high-alumina) close in chemical composition to the sprayed powders are more effective in this respect. An experimental lot of composite plates were tested from the specimens with coatings. The plates were assembled using the normal method and the plates were tested in bottom teeming of steel from 200-ton ladles. Types St45 and St40Kh steel were teemed. The successful results of production more » tests showed that the use of the plasma method makes less expensive use of the plates and provides more available materials protected from direct contact with the molten metal by a coating not more than 3mm thick. « less
An Evaluation of a Practical Algorithm for Estimating Histograms in Dynamic Tracer Studies Using Positron-Emission Tomography

A method for estimating histograms of numbers of counts in multiple regions of interest from projection data collected at high frame rates using positron-emission tomography (PET) is evaluated. Simulations are used to show that the algorithm accurately corrects for attenuation, that it has slightly better spatial resolution than methods using filtered backprojection, that it computes histograms with significantly less noise than filtered backprojection, and that it is faster than methods using filtered backprojection.
Mechanistic Study of a One-Step Catalytic Conversion of Fructose to 2,5-Dimethyltetrahydrofuran

Carbohydrates, such as fructose, can be fully dehydroxylated to 2,5-dimethyltetrahydrofuran (DMTHF), a valuable chemical and potential gasoline substitute, by the use of a dual catalytic system consisting of HI and RhX(3) (X=Cl, I). A mechanistic study has been carried out to understand the roles that both acid and metal play in the reaction. HI serves a two-fold purpose: HI acts as a dehydration agent (loss of 3 H(2)O) in the initial step of the reaction, and as a reducing agent for the conjugated carbinol group in a subsequent step. I(2) is formed in the reduction step and metal-catalyzed hydrogenation reforms HI. The rhodium catalyst, in addition to catalyzing the reaction of iodine with hydrogen, functions as a hydrogenation catalyst for C=O and C=C bonds. A general mechanistic scheme for the overall reaction is proposed based on identification of intermediates, independent reactions of the intermediates, and deuterium labeling studies.
Analysis and simulation of BGK electron holes

Recent observations from satellites crossing regions of magnetic-field-aligned electron streams reveal solitary potential structures that move at speeds much greater than the ion acoustic/thermal velocity. The structures appear as positive potential pulses rapidly drifting along the magnetic field, and are electrostatic in their rest frame. We interpret them as BGK electron holes supported by a drifting population of trapped electrons. Using Laplace transforms, we analyse the behavior of one phase-space electron hole. The resulting potential shapes and electron distribution functions are self-consistent and compatible with the field and particle data associated with the observed pulses. In particular, the spatial width increases with increasing amplitude. The stability of the analytic solution is tested by means of a two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulation code with open boundaries. We consider a strongly magnetized parameter regime in which the bounce frequency of the trapped electrons is much less than their gyrofrequency. Our investigation includes the influence of the ions, which in the frame of the hole appear as an incident beam, and impinge on the BGK potential with considerable energy. The nonlinear structure is remarkably resilient
Innervation of ventricular and periventricular brain compartments.

Synaptic transmission is divided into two broad categories on the basis of the distance over which neurotransmitters travel. Wiring transmission is the release of transmitter into synaptic clefts in close apposition to receptors. Volume transmission is the release of transmitters or modulators over varying distances before interacting with receptors. One case of volume transmission over potentially long distances involves release into cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The CSF contains neuroactive substances that affect brain function and range in size from small molecule transmitters to peptides and large proteins. CSF-contacting neurons are a well-known and universal feature of non-mammalian vertebrates, but only supra- and subependymal serotonergic plexuses are a commonly studied feature in mammals. The origin of most other neuroactive substances in CSF is unknown. In order to determine which brain regions communicate with CSF, we describe the distribution of retrograde neuronal labeling in the rat brain following ventricular injection of Cholera toxin, s subunit (CTs), a tracer frequently used in brain circuit analysis. Within 15 to 30 min following intraventricular injection, there is only diffuse, non-specific staining adjacent to the ventricular surface. Within 2 to 10 days, however, there is extensive labeling of neuronal perikarya in specific nuclear groups in the telencephalon, thalamus, hypothalamus and brainstem, many at a considerable distance from the ventricles. These observations support the view that ventricular CSF is a significant channel for volume transmission and identifies those brain regions most likely to be involved in this process.
Ordering the extraction of renewable resources: The case of multiple aquifers

Abstract Optimal sequencing of resource extraction is typically studied for nonrenewable resources. We provide conditions for optimal use of multiple sources of a renewable resource and characterize the resulting extraction sequence, resource scarcity values, and (single) efficiency price path for two groundwater aquifers and an abundant alternative resource. Even with one demand, the optimal sequence depends on the differential opportunity costs of the two renewables. A numerical simulation for the South O‘ahu aquifer system, which also allows for different distribution costs, illustrates the case of using the “leakier” aquifer first and then switching to simultaneous use of both resources. The welfare gain from specialization relative to independent management is $4.7 billion.
A dictatorial domain for monotone social choice functions

Abstract We give a dictatorial domain for monotone and unanimous social choice functions.
Symbolic functioning in preschool children

Abstract An important goal of parents and preschool educators alike is to introduce young children to a variety of symbol systems, and to help children begin to master some of these crucial cultural tools. Our research indicates that, in spite of the importance that adults place on symbolization, adult intuitions about the acquisition of symbolic functioning and how to facilitate it are often poor. In this article we summarize research on toddlers' understanding of two kinds of symbols—models and pictures. We show that the initial insight that something is a symbol or representation of something else is extremely challenging for young children, and it is an insight that must be achieved with each symbol system they encounter. Two factors that contribute to the difficulty children have appreciating symbolic relations are discussed: dual representation (the ability to think about something in two different ways at the same time; specifically, the ability to think of something both as an object itself and a symbol for something else) and representational specificity (understanding that a symbol can stand for a specific reality). Implications of these factors for preschool practice are considered.
Low-stress, heavily-doped polycrystalline silicon carbide for MEMS applications

This paper details a process to deposit low-stress, heavily-doped polycrystalline 3C-SiC (poly-SiC) films suitable for MEMS applications. The films were deposited by low pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) on Si and SiO/sub 2/ coated Si wafers at 900/spl deg/C using dichlorosilane (SiH/sub 2/Cl/sub 2/) and acetylene (C/sub 2/H/sub 2/) as precursors and ammonia (NH/sub 3/) as a dopant gas. Poly-SiC films with a resistivity of 0.017 /spl Omega/-cm and a tensile residual stress of 59 MPa were produced. The average Young's modulus for these films was found to be around 330 GPa, as determined using bulk micromachined membranes and surface micromachined resonators. Suspended microbridges fabricated from these films were able to operate in air at elevated temperatures for extended periods, thus illustrating the chemical and thermal durability of the thin SiC films.
Challenges in the design of frequency synthesizers for wireless applications

This paper describes the challenges in the design of frequency synthesizers used in wireless transceivers. Following a review of design issues and the effect of nonidealities, we present a number of synthesizer architectures along with their merits and drawbacks. We also describe the difficulties in the design of some of the building blocks and consider the role of synthesizers in emerging applications.
Broadband infrared photoluminescence in silicon nanowires with high density stacking faults

Making silicon an efficient light-emitting material is an important goal of silicon photonics. Here we report the observation of broadband sub-bandgap photoluminescence in silicon nanowires with a high density of stacking faults. The photoluminescence becomes stronger and exhibits a blue shift under higher laser powers. The super-linear dependence on excitation intensity indicates a strong competition between radiative and defect-related non-radiative channels, and the spectral blue shift is ascribed to the band filling effect in the heterostructures of wurtzite silicon and cubic silicon created by stacking faults.
Effect of Chronic Intermittent Administration of Inhaled Tobramycin on Respiratory Microbial Flora in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

Pseudomonas aeruginosa endobronchial infection causes significant morbidity and mortality among cystic fibrosis patients. Microbiology results from two multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of inhaled tobramycin in cystic fibrosis were monitored for longitudinal changes in sputum microbial flora, antibiotic susceptibility, and selection of P. aeruginosa isolates with decreased tobramycin susceptibility. Clinical response was examined to determine whether current susceptibility standards are applicable to aerosolized administration. Treatment with inhaled tobramycin did not increase isolation of Burkholderia cepacia, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, or Alcaligenes xylosoxidans; however, isolation of Candida albicans and Aspergillus species did increase. Although P. aeruginosa tobramycin susceptibility decreased in the tobramycin group compared with that in the placebo group, there was no evidence of selection for the most resistant isolates to become most prevalent. The definition of resistance for parenteral administration does not apply to inhaled tobramycin: too few patients had P. aeruginosa with a tobramycin MIC >/=16 microgram/mL to define a new break point on the basis of clinical response.
Complete Bladder Duplication Presenting as Incontinence in an 11-Year-Old Girl

We describe the case of an 11-year-old girl with complete bladder duplication presenting as urinary incontinence. We discuss a unique surgical approach to the correction of her incontinence.
A Dynamic Programming Approach to the Test Point Insertion Problem

The test point insertion problem is that of selecting t nodes in a combinational network as candidates for inserting observable test points, so as to minimize the number of test vectors needed to detect all single stuck-at faults in the network. In this paper we describe a dynamic programming approach to selecting the test points and provide an algorithm that inserts the test points optimally for fanout-free networks. We further extend this algorithm to general combinational networks with reconvergent fanout. We also analyze the time complexity of the algorithm and show that it runs in O(n-t) time, where n is the size of the network and t is the number of test points to be inserted. As a side result we show that we can compute minimal test sets for a restricted class of networks that includes fanout. This extends previous results which were limited to fanout-free networks.
Deletion of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 2 from the Peri-Wolffian Duct Stroma Leads to Ureteric Induction Abnormalities and Vesicoureteral Reflux

Purpose Pax3cre-mediated deletion of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (Fgfr2) broadly in renal and urinary tract mesenchyme led to ureteric bud (UB) induction defects and vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), although the mechanisms were unclear. Here, we investigated whether Fgfr2 acts specifically in peri-Wolffian duct stroma (ST) to regulate UB induction and development of VUR and the mechanisms of Fgfr2 activity.
The Alzheimer amyloid precursor protein maps to human chromosome 21 bands q21.105-q21.05.

Abstract The Alzheimer amyloid protein precursor (APP) has previously been localized to human chromosome 21q11.2–q21. We have refined the regional localization to a small region including chromosome bands 21q21.105–q21.05 by using quantitative Southern blot analysis of cell lines aneuploid for parts of chromosome 21. Our findings exclude the APP gene from the minimal region producing the classical phenotypic features of Down syndrome. This further narrowing of the APP location will help in identifying the physical location of the gene causing familial Alzheimer disease.
Little Evidence Of Correlation Between Growth In Health Care Spending And Reduced Mortality

As rapid U.S. health care spending growth continues, the question of whether additional dollars purchase better health or unnecessary care remains in sharp focus for policy makers, large employers, and other stakeholders. To investigate this question, we measured changes in mortality and cost for seven common diagnoses at 122 U.S. hospitals from 2000 to 2004. After adjusting for inflation, we found little correlation between reduced mortality for certain conditions and increased spending on patients with those conditions. The message to be underscored once again for policy makers is that health care dollars provide inconsistent value, and future spending increases should be targeted to care that improves outcomes.
Mixed Layer Modeling of Intraseasonal Variability in the Tropical Western Pacific and Indian Oceans

Sea surface temperature (SST) variations associated with the atmospheric intraseasonal oscillation in the tropical Indian and western Pacific Oceans, are examined using a one-dimensional mixed layer model. Surface fluxes associated with 10 well-defined intraseasonal events from the period 1986‐93 are used to force the model. Surface winds from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts daily analyses and SST from the mixed layer model are used to compute latent and sensible heat fluxes and wind stress with the TOGA COARE bulk flux algorithm. Surface freshwater flux is estimated from the Microwave Sounding Unit precipitation data. Net shortwave radiation is estimated, via regression analysis, from outgoing longwave radiation. An idealized diurnal cycle of shortwave radiation is also imposed. The intraseasonal SST variation from the model, when forced by the surface fluxes estimated from gridded analyses, agrees well with the SST observed at a mooring during the COARE. The model was then integrated for the 10 well-defined intraseasonal events at grid points from 758 to 1758 Ea t 58S, which spans the warm pool of the equatorial Indian and western Pacific Oceans. The one-dimensional model is able to simulate the amplitude of the observed intraseasonal SST variation throughout this domain. Variations of shortwave radiation and latent heat flux are equally important for driving the SST variations in the western Pacific, while latent heat flux variations are less important in the Indian Ocean. The phasing of the intraseasonal variation of precipitation relative to wind stress results in little impact of the freshwater flux variation on the intraseasonally varying mixed layer. The diurnal cycle of shortwave radiation is found to significantly increase the intraseasonal amplitude of SST over that produced by daily mean insolation.
The effects of late Quaternary climate and pCO2 change on C4 plant abundance in the south-central United States

The late Quaternary was a time of substantial environmental change, with the past 70,000 years exhibiting global changes in climate, atmospheric composition, and terrestrial floral and faunal assemblages. We use isotopic data and couple climate and vegetation models to assess the balance between C3 and C4 vegetation in Texas during this period. The carbon isotope composition of fossil bison, mammoth, and horse tooth enamel is used as a proxy for C3 versus C4 plant consumption, and indicates that C4 plant biomass remained above 55% through most of Texas from prior to the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) into the Holocene. These data also reveal that horses did not feed exclusively on herbaceous plants, consequently isotopic data from horses are not reliable indicators of the C3–C4 balance in grassland biomes. Estimates of C4 percentages from coupled climate–vegetation models illuminate the relative roles of climate and atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in shaping the regional C4 signal. C4 percentages estimated using observed modern climate–vegetation relationships and late Quaternary climate variables (simulated by a global climate model) are much lower than those indicated by carbon isotope values from fossils. When the effect of atmospheric CO2 concentration on the competitive balance between C3 and C4 plants is included in the numerical experiment, however, estimated C4 percentages show better agreement with isotopic estimates from late Quaternary mammals and soils. This result suggests that low atmospheric CO2 levels played a role in the observed persistence of C4 plants throughout the late Quaternary.
On the Mechanism of Sodium Extrusion across the Irrigated Gill of Sea Water-Adapted Rainbow Trout (Salmo gairdneri)

Sodium efflux (JoutNa) across the irrigated trout gill was rapid in sea water (SW), but only about 25 % as large in fresh water (FW). The difference correlated with a change in the potential difference across the gill (TEP). The latter was about +10 mV (blood positive) in SW, but –40 mV in FW. Both flux and electrical data indicated that gills in this fish are permeable to a variety of cations including Na+, K+, Mg2+, choline, and Tris. They are less permeable to anions; PNa:PK:PCl was estimated to be 1:10:0.3, and PCl > Pgluconate. The TEP was shown to be a diffusion potential determined by these permeabilities and the extant ionic gradients in SW, FW as well as in other media. JoutNa appeared to be diffusive in all of the experiments undertaken. Exchange diffusion need not be posited, and the question of whether there is an active component remains open.
U-slot patch antennas for dual-band or multi-band applications

A wide band patch antenna fed by an L-probe can be designed for dual- and multi-band applications by cutting U-slots on the patch. The half wavelength long U-slot resonates and introduces a band-notch. Multiple band-notches could be introduced by cutting several U-slots on the patch. Simulation and measurement results are presented to illustrate this design. Stable broadside radiation patterns are maintained across the bands.
Origins of Igneous Layering

Anyone who has ever seen a photo of a layered intrusion, let alone visited one first hand, or even seen a thin section from one, cannot help but be impressed by the stunning record of crystal growth and deposition. Such bodies stand as majestic monuments of undeniable evidence that intricate magmatic processes exist, processes that couple crystallization, convection, and crystal sorting to form rocks so highly ordered and beautiful that they are a wonder to behold. These are the altars to which petrologists must carry their conceived petrologic processes for approval. Although significant in number, the best layered intrusions seem to be found almost always in remote places. Their names, Bushveld, Muskox, Kiglapait, Stillwater, Duke Island, Skaergaard, Rhum, ring through igneous petrology almost as historic military battles (Saratoga, Antietam, Bull Run, Manassas, Gettysburg) do through American history. People who have worked on such bodies are almost folk heros: Wager, Deer, Brown, Jackson, Hess, Irvine, McBirney, Morse; these names are petrologic household words. Yet with all this fanfare and reverence, layered instrusions are nearly thought of as period pieces, extreme examples of what can happen, but not generally what does. This is now all changing with the increasing realization that these bodies are perhaps highly representative of all magmatic bodies. They are simply more dynamically complete, containing more of the full range of interactions, and of course, exposing a more complete record. They are one end of a spectrum containing lava flows, lava lakes, large sills, plutons, and layered intrusions. This book uniquely covers this range with an abundance of first-hand field observations and a good dose of process conceptualization, magma physics, and crystal growth kinetics.
Urban cover mapping using digital, high-spatial resolution aerial imagery

High-spatial resolution digital color-infrared aerial imagery of Syracuse, NY was analyzed to test methods for developing land cover classifications for an urban area. Five cover types were mapped: tree/shrub, grass/herbaceous, bare soil, water and impervious surface. Challenges in high-spatial resolution imagery such as shadow effect and similarity in spectral response between classes were found. Classification confusion among objects with similar spectral responses occurred between water and dark impervious surfaces, concrete and bare- soil, and grass/herbaceous and trees/shrub. Methods of incorporating texture, band ratios, masking of water objects, sieve functions, and majority filters were evaluated for their potential to improve the classification accuracy. After combining these various techniques, overall cover accuracy for the study area was 81.75%. Highest accura- cies occurred for water (100%), tree/shrub (86.2%) and impervious surfaces (82.6%); lowest accuracy were for grass/herbaceous (69.3%) and bare soil (40.0%). Methods of improving cover map accuracy are discussed.
Hepatocellular carcinoma arising in adenoma: similar immunohistochemical and cytogenetic features in adenoma and hepatocellular carcinoma portions of the tumor

Well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma in non-cirrhotic liver can show morphological features similar to hepatocellular adenoma. In rare instances, hepatocellular carcinoma can arise in the setting of hepatocellular adenoma. This study compares the immunohistochemical and cytogenetic features of the hepatocellular adenoma-like and hepatocellular carcinoma portions of these tumors. Immunohistochemistry for β-catenin, glutamine synthetase, serum amyloid A protein, glypican-3, and heat-shock protein 70 was done in 11 cases of hepatocellular carcinoma arising in hepatocellular adenoma in non-cirrhotic liver. Tumors with nuclear β-catenin and/or diffuse glutamine synthetase were considered β-catenin activated. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was done in nine cases for gains of chromosomes 1, 8 and MYC. There were seven men (33-75 years) and four women (29-65 years). Focal atypical morphological features were seen in hepatocellular adenoma-like areas in 7 (64%) cases. Hepatocellular adenoma-like areas showed features of inflammatory hepatocellular adenoma in 7 (64%) cases; 4 of these were also serum amyloid A-positive in the hepatocellular carcinoma portion. β-Catenin activation, heat-shock protein 70 positivity, and chromosomal gains on FISH were seen in the hepatocellular adenoma portion in 55%, 40%, and 56% of cases, and 73%, 60%, and 78% of cases in the hepatocellular carcinoma portion, respectively. In conclusion, the hepatocellular adenoma-like portion of most cases of hepatocellular carcinoma arising in hepatocellular adenoma shows features typically seen in hepatocellular carcinoma such as focal morphological abnormalities, β-catenin activation, heat-shock protein 70 expression, and chromosomal gains. Hepatocellular adenoma-like areas in these tumors, especially in men and older women, may represent an extremely well-differentiated variant of hepatocellular carcinoma, whereas the morphologically recognizable hepatocellular carcinoma portion represents a relatively higher grade component of the tumor.
CISC controls and the union/non-union wage ratio

This article was published in the Journal of Behavioral Economics, Vol 13: David Shulenburger, Robert A. McLean, Sara B. Rasch, CISC controls and the union/non-union wage ratio, Pages 57-66. Copyright Elsevier (1984).
Temperature rise in an anatomical human head model due to 2.45 and 3.7 GHz inverted-F antennas

Temperature rise induced by 2.45 and 3.7 GHz inverted-F antennas were studied in an anatomical human head model. These antennas were integrated in a 100 mm by 40 mm by 10 mm metal box. Using an FDTD simulation tool different orientations and separation distances of 2.45 and 3.7 GHz handset antennas were investigated for maximum temperature rise inside the head model. Temperature rise profile with respect to time was studied as well.
The influence of amateur radio on the development of the commercial market for quartz piezoelectric resonators in the United States

In the mid and late 1920s, amateur radio operators were experimenting in great numbers with crystal control of radio transmitters. At the time, most amateurs used home built transmitters made from a combination of purchased and home made parts. The use of quartz crystals by amateurs predated the first U.S. commercial broadcast station to use crystal control. Amateur radio operators were the first sizable commercial market for crystals. Many of the crystal companies of the 1920s and 1930s were founded by amateur radio operators to supply other amateurs.
Surface modifications with Lissajous trajectories using atomic force microscopy

In this paper, we report a method for atomic force microscopy surface modifications with single-tone and multiple-resolution Lissajous trajectories. The tip mechanical scratching experiments with two series of Lissajous trajectories were carried out on monolayer films. The scratching processes with two scan methods have been illustrated. As an application, the tip-based triboelectrification phenomenon on the silicon dioxide surface with Lissajous trajectories was investigated. The triboelectric charges generated within the tip rubbed area on the surface were characterized in-situ by scanning Kelvin force microscopy. This method would provide a promising and cost-effective approach for surface modifications and nanofabrication.
The Employment Potential of Refugee Entrepreneurship: Soviet Jews and Vietnamese in California

Research concerning immigrant and ethnic business formation has focused almost exclusively upon the enterprises of economically motivated immigrants and long established refugees. Ignored are the businesses opened by recent refugees who, since 1975, account for 20% of the legal entrants to the United States. Because refugees have different social and demographic characteristics than economic immigrants and come to the U.S. for different reasons, they reveal distinct entrepreneurial behaviors. Relying on a sample of 67 Soviet Jewish and Vietnamese enterprises in California, this study explores the prospects for refugee self-employment. It considers the characteristics of self-employed refugees, their resources and motives for openingbusinesses, and their use of community-based sources of capital, labor, customers and information.
Shedding light on bioluminescence regulation in Vibrio fischeri

The bioluminescence emitted by the marine bacterium Vibrio fischeri is a particularly striking result of individual microbial cells co-ordinating a group behaviour. The genes responsible for light production are principally regulated by the LuxR-LuxI quorum-sensing system. In addition to LuxR-LuxI, numerous other genetic elements and environmental conditions control bioluminescence production. Efforts to mathematically model the LuxR-LuxI system are providing insight into the dynamics of this autoinduction behaviour. The Hawaiian squid Euprymna scolopes forms a natural symbiosis with V. fischeri, and utilizes the symbiont-derived bioluminescence for certain nocturnal behaviours, such as counterillumination. Recent work suggests that the tissue with which V. fischeri associates not only can detect bioluminescence but may also use this light to monitor the V. fischeri population.
Service-oriented middleware for Smart Home applications

Smart Homes uses different devices including sensors and actuators to provide services that assist in performing the activities of daily living. Currently these smart homes are developed in a manual and adhoc way. Manually configured smart homes create scalability, extensibility and cost problem. The need for a uniform platform for intercommunication among devices and a middleware abstraction using service-oriented technology is presented in this paper. A layered architecture for smart home developers to use is presented. Different demos that take advantage of the service-oriented middleware layer are shown.
Ionic liquids as modulators of the critical micelle concentration of sodium dodecyl sulfate

Critical micelle concentration (CMC) of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), an anionic surfactant, has been investigated in aqueous solutions of a variety of room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs): 1,3-dimethylimidazolium iodide (Me2IM-I, 2), 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (BMIM-Cl, 3), 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (HxMIM-Cl, 4), 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium chloride (MOIM-Cl), 5, and 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (MOIM-BF4, 6). The CMC of SDS is shown to correlate with the nature of the alkyl groups in the RTILs; SDS showed appreciably higher CMCs in presence of ionic liquids 2 and 3, whereas in the presence of ionic liquids 4, 5, and 6 much smaller CMCs were observed. The nature of the gigenions, Cl- or BF4-, has no noticeable effect on the observed CMC values.
Review: Geophysical methods for kimberlite, prospecting

Kimberlites occur as intrusive igneous rocks, generally as dykes, and pipes and some small diatremes or volcanic vents. The pipes are generally irregular structures and have not been found to exceed 2 km in diameter. The physical properties of kimberlites are variable. Physical properties from a large number of sources are tabulated. Western Australian pipes have shown some similarity in features to the Orapa (Botswana) pipes and the choice of geophysical prospecting methods for these pipes should be according to these similarities. Geological interpretation of aerial photography and satellite imagery are useful in the screening and classification of magnetic anomalies in kimberlite environments. Aerial photography may serve as a basic tool for studying the structural environment of kimberlites and the identification of intrusions, particularly dykes. Fracture analysis may aid in locating kimberlites. There may be considerable variation in the amplitude of magnetic response over kimberlite pipes. Within pipes that exhibit large magnetic response, there are large local inhomogeneities, probably caused by a combination of the explosive emplacement mechanism, different volcanic pulses, and different weathering. The gravity method is useful for detecting extensions of existing kimberlite pipes, and defining the position of the intrusion at depth. Over large pipes where kimberlite is weathered, a negative anomaly of a few tenths of a milligal may be expected. The unweathered kimberlite at depth gives a positive anomaly, and must be more dense than the average density of basalt. Since the anomalies over quite large pipes in basalt are small (1 or 2 milligal), accurate terrain corrections and allowances for any substantial variations in the thickness of the overburden and for any regional gravity gradient are important. Kimberlite material is electrically conductive compared with host country rocks, and resistivity methods are useful in delineating large bodies. Electromagnetic techniques have proven effective in some areas in defining the extent of kimberlite pipes and shape of dykes. Despite success in some Scandinavian countries and Canada the electromagnetic method for kimberlite prospecting in tropical and subtropical countries has not shown convincing results because of the conductive overburden in these areas. Induced polarisation has sometimes served to define sharply the vertical edge of weathered pipe rock. Owing to the enrichment of radioelements including potassium, thorium and uranium in kimberlite the radiometric technique might be expected to be of use in kimberlite prospecting. However, weak total-count anomalies have been obtained over pipes, with some potassium radio-activity measured either over the pipe or along its contact.
Single-Institution Experience with Robotic Partial Nephrectomy for Renal Masses Greater Than 4 cm.

Abstract Purpose: To review our institution's experience with robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) for T1b and greater renal masses (>4 cm [T1b+]) in terms of perioperative and oncologic outcomes relative to a contemporary cohort of patients with T1a renal masses (<4 cm). Patients and Methods: 232 patients underwent RPN at our institution between 2008 and 2014. Demographics, R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry score, and operative, pathologic, and renal function outcomes, as well as complications, were compared between the two groups (T1a vs T1b+). Results: A total of 168 and 64 patients underwent RPN for T1a and T1b+ renal masses, respectively. T1b+ patients had a higher mean nephrometry score (8.2 vs 6.9), median pathologic tumor size (4.8 vs 2.6 cm), median blood loss (200 vs 100 mL), median warm ischemia time (23 vs 21 minutes), rate of conversion to radical nephrectomy (7.8% vs 1.2%), and rate of Clavien grade III or higher complications (14% vs 4.2%) compared with T1a patients. One patient was found to have disease...
Mathematics: What’s spatial, what’s not

Probably, almost everyone has some idea of what is meant by the words ‘spatial mathematics.’ The problem is that 100 people have 100 different ideas, because the concept is not easy to codify. In this paper we suggest a few ways to illustrate differences between ‘spatial’ and ‘non-spatial’ concepts, and ways to introduce spatial approaches where none was present before.
Evaluation of fat suppression in contrast-enhanced MR of neoplastic and inflammatory spine disease.

PURPOSE To determine the benefit of fat suppression in conjunction with gadolinium enhancement for evaluating neoplastic and inflammatory diseases of the spine. METHODS Contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images were compared with the corresponding contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images with fat suppression in 14 patients with various neoplastic and inflammatory spine diseases. RESULTS Contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images with fat suppression showed enhancing lesions in all cases of vertebral disease (five cases), but in one case some metastases did not enhance. Paravertebral (nine lesions), epidural (seven lesions), and intradural-extramedullary (six lesions) were delineated better with contrast-enhanced fat suppression. In the 14 cases (29 lesions), nine lesions were seen only on contrast-enhanced images with fat suppression. Integrity of the vertebral end plates was assessed more accurately on fat-suppressed images. CONCLUSION Although noncontrast T1-weighted images are sufficient to screen for vertebral disease, contrast-enhanced images with fat suppression may detect additional lesions. Fat suppression should be used in conjunction with gadolinium for evaluating epidural, paravertebral, and intradural-extramedullary spinal lesions.
Directional Statistics in Machine Learning: a Brief Review

The modern data analyst must cope with data encoded in various forms, vectors, matrices, strings, graphs, or more. Consequently, statistical and machine learning models tailored to different data encodings are important. We focus on data encoded as normalized vectors, so that their "direction" is more important than their magnitude. Specifically, we consider high-dimensional vectors that lie either on the surface of the unit hypersphere or on the real projective plane. For such data, we briefly review common mathematical models prevalent in machine learning, while also outlining some technical aspects, software, applications, and open mathematical challenges.
The impact of supervised weight loss and intentional weight regain on sex hormone binding globulin and testosterone in premenopausal women

What is the impact of intentional weight loss and regain on serum androgens in women? We conducted an ancillary analysis of prospectively collected samples from a randomized controlled trial. The trial involved supervised 10% weight loss (8.5 kg on average) with diet and exercise over 4-6 months followed by supervised intentional regain of 50% of the lost weight (4.6 kg on average) over 4-6 months. Participants were randomized prior to the partial weight regain component to either continuation or cessation of endurance exercise. Analytic sample included 30 obese premenopausal women (mean age of 40 ± 5.9 years, mean baseline body mass index (BMI) of 32.9 ± 4.2 kg/m(2)) with metabolic syndrome. We evaluated sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), total testosterone (T), free androgen index (FAI), and high molecular weight adiponectin (HMWAdp). Insulin, homeostasis model assessment (HOMA), and quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI), and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) measured in the original trial were reanalyzed for the current analytic sample. Insulin, HOMA, and QUICKI improved with weight loss and were maintained despite weight regain. Log-transformed SHBG significantly increased from baseline to weight loss, and then significantly decreased with weight regain. LogFAI and logVAT decreased similarly and increased with weight loss followed by weight regain. No changes were found in logT and LogHMWAdp. There was no significant difference in any tested parameters by exercise between the groups. SHBG showed prominent sensitivity to body mass fluctuations, as reduction with controlled intentional weight regain showed an inverse relationship to VAT and occurred despite stable HMWAdp and sustained improvements with insulin resistance. FAI showed opposite changes to SHBG, while T did not change significantly with weight. Continued exercise during weight regain did not appear to impact these findings.
United States of America's Change in International Trade Policies that Effect ASEAN Community

The purpose of this study is to study the United States of America’s Change in International Trade Policies that Effect ASEAN Community. The study is done by documents studied, in-depth interview with the international traders and specialists from the international trade organizations in the total of 21 people that had given main information. The study results found that the products that had directly effect from the changing of the U.S.’s international trade policies are the products that have GSP rights and the products that have been accused of using child labors or the use of forced labors. However, it has not effected that high due to the products that have balance of trade deficit are the products that American investors used ASEAN countries as the manufacturing bases. Therefore, proactive protection guidelines preparation from the international trade policies changed are to elevate many products quality to the higher level than asking for privileges and if there must be trade agreement, it should be done by trade agreements and investment descriptions between the United States of America and ASEAN community. Thus, ASEAN community must apply for old customer preservation policy and searching for new customers than abiding on old trade markets and to reduce commercial exploitations between one another.