cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microencapsulated phase change material via Pickering emulsion stabilized by cellulose nanofibrils for thermal energy storage

Abstract A phase change material (PCM) has an ability to store and release a large amount of energy in a wide range of temperature by the latent heat of fusion upon melting and crystallization. Microencapsulation may protect PCM from undesirable reaction and leaching. Herein, we report the microencapsulation of n-hexadecane via oil-in-water Pickering emulsions stabilized by non-chemically modified cellulose nanofibrils (CNF). The maximum size of PCM-CNF microcapsules was 12 ± 3.4 μm in diameter. The surface coverage of the microcapsule by CNF was as high as 67%, consistent with porous morphology of the freeze-dried microcapsules. With 59% PCM loading, the PCM-CNF microcapsule exhibited 132.5 and 141.1 J/g as stored and released thermal energy, respectively. The microcapsule slurry showed a reversible change in storage modulus by one order of magnitude across the transition temperature of n-hexadecane. Combined results demonstrate the successful microencapsulation of PCM via CNF-based Pickering emulsions for a sustainable thermal energy storage material.
Microglia and its genetics in Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia across the world. While its discovery and pathological manifestations are centered on protein aggregations of amyloid-beta (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau protein, neuroinflammation has emerged in the last decade as a main component of the disease in both pathogenesis and progression. As the main innate immune cell type in central nervous system (CNS), microglia play a very important role in regulating neuroinflammation, which occurs commonly in neurodegenerative conditions including AD. Under inflammatory response, microglia undergo morphological changes and status transition from homeostatic to activated forms. Different microglia subtypes displaying distinct genetic profiles have been identified in AD, and these signatures often link to AD risk genes identified from the genome-wide association studies (GWAS), such as APOE and TREM2. Furthermore, many of AD risk genes are highly enriched in microglia and specifically influence the functions of microglia in pathogenesis, e.g. releasing inflammatory cytokines and clearing Aβ. Therefore, building up a landscape of these risk genes in microglia, based on current preclinical studies and in the context of their pathogenic or protective effects, would largely help us to understand the complexed etiology of AD and provide new insight for the unmet need of effective treatment.
An Open-Source Deep Learning Network for Reconstruction of High-Resolution OCT Angiograms of Retinal Intermediate and Deep Capillary Plexuses.

Purpose We propose a deep learning-based image reconstruction algorithm to produce high-resolution optical coherence tomographic angiograms (OCTA) of the intermediate capillary plexus (ICP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP). Methods In this study, 6-mm × 6-mm macular scans with a 400 × 400 A-line sampling density and 3-mm × 3-mm scans with a 304 × 304 A-line sampling density were acquired on one or both eyes of 180 participants (including 230 eyes with diabetic retinopathy and 44 healthy controls) using a 70-kHz commercial OCT system (RTVue-XR; Optovue, Inc., Fremont, California, USA). Projection-resolved OCTA algorithm removed projection artifacts in voxel. ICP and DCP angiograms were generated by maximum projection of the OCTA signal within the respective plexus. We proposed a deep learning-based method, which receives inputs from registered 3-mm × 3-mm ICP and DCP angiograms with proper sampling density as the ground truth reference to reconstruct 6-mm × 6-mm high-resolution ICP and DCP en face OCTA. We applied the same network on 3-mm × 3-mm angiograms to enhance these images further. We evaluated the reconstructed 3-mm × 3-mm and 6-mm × 6-mm angiograms based on vascular connectivity, Weber contrast, false flow signal (flow signal erroneously generated from background), and the noise intensity in the foveal avascular zone. Results Compared to the originals, the Deep Capillary Angiogram Reconstruction Network (DCARnet)-enhanced 6-mm × 6-mm angiograms had significantly reduced noise intensity (ICP, 7.38 ± 25.22, P < 0.001; DCP, 11.20 ± 22.52, P < 0.001), improved vascular connectivity (ICP, 0.95 ± 0.01, P < 0.001; DCP, 0.96 ± 0.01, P < 0.001), and enhanced Weber contrast (ICP, 4.25 ± 0.10, P < 0.001; DCP, 3.84 ± 0.84, P < 0.001), without generating false flow signal when noise intensity lower than 650. The DCARnet-enhanced 3-mm × 3-mm angiograms also reduced noise, improved connectivity, and enhanced Weber contrast in 3-mm × 3-mm ICP and DCP angiograms from 101 eyes. In addition, DCARnet preserved the appearance of the dilated vessels in the reconstructed angiograms in diabetic eyes. Conclusions DCARnet can enhance 3-mm × 3-mm and 6-mm × 6-mm ICP and DCP angiogram image quality without introducing artifacts. Translational Relevance The enhanced 6-mm × 6-mm angiograms may be easier for clinicians to interpret qualitatively.
The State of IS Research on Offshoring

In this chapter we overview the current state of IS research on offshoring by presenting summaries of manuscripts submitted for a Special Issue of the Management Information Systems Quarterly (MISQ) on the topic of IT offshoring, nine of which were eventually published in the special issue in 2008 (King W. R. and Torkzadeh 2008). In 2005 and until August 2006, papers on the topic of IT offshoring were invited to be submitted for this MISQ Special Issue under the guest editorship of the first two authors. The “call for papers” heavily emphasized a desire for empirical papers, although papers of other varieties were also considered. Forty-three (43) papers were submitted by the deadline. A number of papers (not included in the 43) were submitted or proposed, but were rejected because they dealt with outsourcing, but not specifically with offshore outsourcing . Because of the high esteem in which MISQ is held by IS researchers, when we viewed the rather broad range and scope of the 43 papers, we concluded that they might well be a representative sample of the best research that is currently being conducted on the topic by IS researchers. Of course, given the emphasis on empirical work stated in the call, any conclusions that might be drawn from this “sample” are best limited to that domain. So, in parallel with having the papers reviewed, we conducted our own analysis of the paper topics, research methodologies and other salient descriptors. For each paper, we constructed a profile of these descriptors. The profile did not include attributes of paper quality since the review process was not yet complete at the time of this analysis and because we were, in this activity, not primarily interested in quality, but in the topics studied and the research methods that were used. (Of course, in the review process, we were primarily interested in the quality of each paper). We believe that for purposes of this analysis, we can ignore quality because given the high-quality perception that most IS researchers have of MISQ, there is a significant self-selection bias with regard to quality that exists in any MISQ submission process. The vast majority of IS researchers “self censor” and do not submit papers to MISQ unless they believe them to be of first quality.
A new computer approach to the modeling of atoms, ions and molecules: Part I — Hydrogen

Abstract A computer approach to atomic and molecular dynamics is developed which utilizes known experimental values of ionization energies. In this first paper, applications are made to the hydrogen atom, the hydrogen ion, and the hydrogen molecule. A technique for the approximation of bond lengths is developed and illustrative examples of electron motions and, where significant, proton motions are described and discussed.
Helena Bergmann, A Revised Reading of Mary Hays’ Philosophical Novel Memoirs of Emma Courtney (1796) and Judith Thompson, John Thelwall in the Wordsworth Circle: The Silenced Partner

Review by Miriam L. Wallace (New College of Florida) of Helena Bergmann, A Revised Reading of Mary Hays’ Philosophical Novel Memoirs of Emma Courtney (1796): Enlarging the Canon of the Mary Wollstonecraft Literary-Philosophical Circle . Preface by Jacqueline Labbe. Lewiston, PA: Edwin Mellen Press, 2011. Pp. 179. PB $49.95. ISBN 978077343948X and Judith Thompson. John Thelwall in the Wordsworth Circle: The Silenced Partner . Basingstoke and New York: Palgrave McMillan, 2012. Pp. 313. £58. ISBN 9780230104488.
Does the strategic alignment of value drivers impact earnings persistence

Purpose – This paper aims to advance the literature by extending the empirical relation between a firm’s strategy and socially responsible value drivers (customer/employee relations) beyond firm performance to the impact on earnings persistence. Although existing research demonstrates that management’s effective implementation of a specific strategic orientation such as cost focus or product differentiation leads to better financial performance, no studies, to the authors’ knowledge, directly address the effect of strategic orientation on the persistence of earnings. Design/methodology/approach – This paper utilized the evaluation of a firm’s focus on employee and customer relations through the rating provided by Kinder, Lydenberg and Domini. It uses linear regression analysis to identify statistically significant relations. Findings – The findings demonstrate that simply focusing on socially responsible employee and customer relations alone does not result in higher earnings persistence. But rather, high...
Localization and enumeration of fimbria-associated adhesins of Bacteroides loescheii.

Abstract Monoclonal antibodies that specifically inhibit coaggregation between Bacteroides loescheii PK1295 and its two gram-positive partners Streptococcus sanguis 34 and Actinomyces israelii PK14 were used to enumerate and localize two distinct types of fimbria-associated adhesins on the surface of B. loescheii. Binding studies with radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies indicated that a maximum (Bmax calculated from Scatchard plots) of approximately 400 adhesin molecules specific for S. sanguis and 310 adhesin molecules specific for A. israelii reside on the surface of the cell. Immunoelectron microscopy revealed that the adhesins were not an integral part of the fimbrial subunit; rather, they were usually found on the distal portion of the structures arranged in a random fashion.
Techniques for validation and controlled execution of processes, codes and data: A survey

Various security mechanisms are available to validate, authenticate and permit codes, data and scripts for executing in a computing device. Accordingly, different techniques and tools have been developed to preserve integrity and confidentiality at the process, protocol, system and communication levels. For example, Trusted Platform Module, Intel Trusted Execution Technology and Windows Vista Kernel Mode security ensure system level integrity and security, whereas, Digital Signature, Code Signing, Watermarking, Integrity Checker and Magic Cookies address integrity of data and executables in transit. A brief survey of these techniques is described here with how these techniques help to secure computing environment.
CORROSION TESTING AND FUEL SELECTION FOR LAMPRE I

The first molten plutonium reactor experiment (LAMPRE I) uses a liquid fuel alloy of pIutonium and iron contained in small test tube shaped capsules of tantalum and cooled by liquid sodium. The development of compatible materials for the fuel, container, and coolant has been an important phase of the experiment. The methods of corrosion testing developed for the work and the results of experiments on the composition of the fuel are reported. Both mass transfer attack and intergranular corrosion were found to be significant. Mass transfer was found to be controllable through the use of fuel additives which presumably formed protective layers on the tantalum. Intergranular corrosion was found to be strongly influenced by fuel composition and by container properties. All levels of calcium and magnesium in the fuel were found to be detrimental. Additives which were effective in minimizing mass transfer were found to be not always effective against intergranular attack. Testing methods included tracer techniques, radioautography, chemical analysis, and bend testing. (auth)
Effect of aggregation kinetics on the thermal conductivity of nanoscale colloidal solutions (nanofluid)

The thermal conductivity, k, of nanoscale colloidal suspensions (also known as nanofluid), consisting of nanoparticles suspended in a base liquid, is much higher than the thermal conductivity of the base liquid at very small volume fractions of the nanoparticles. However, experimental results from various groups all across the world have shown various anomalies such as a peak in the enhancement of k with respect to nanoparticle size, an increase as well as a decrease in the ratio of k of these colloidal solutions with the k of the base fluid with increasing temperature, and a dependence of k on pH and time. In this paper, the aggregation kinetics of nanoscale colloidal solutions are combined with the physics of thermal transport to capture the effects of aggregation on k. Results show that the observed anomalies reported in experimental work can be well described by taking aggregation kinetics into account. Finally, we show that colloidal chemistry plays a significant role in deciding the k of colloidal nanosuspensions.
Some considerations in choosing electroconvulsive therapy versus transcranial magnetic stimulation for depression

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has recently been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treatment of depression refractory to at least 1 antidepressant medication. Clinical psychiatrists as well as patients are likely to inquire about TMS as a therapeutic option for the depressed patient. In particular, as TMS is a procedure that has at least some superficial similarities to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), there will be interest in using TMS as a possible alternative to ECT. On the other hand, ECT has been in use for many decades and has a well-established track record of being the most effective treatment for depression. In this article, the author reviews the efficacy, adverse effect profile, cost, and inconvenience issues for both TMS and ECT and outlines some considerations for current clinical decision making regarding the choice between these 2 modalities.
Statins Enhance Formation of Phagocyte Extracellular Traps

Statins are inhibitors of 3-hydroxy 3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. Recent clinico-epidemiologic studies correlate patients receiving statin therapy with having reduced mortality associated with severe bacterial infection. Investigating the effect of statins on the innate immune capacity of phagocytic cells against the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus, we uncovered a beneficial effect of statins on bacterial clearance by phagocytes, although, paradoxically, both phagocytosis and oxidative burst were inhibited. Probing instead for an extracellular mechanism of killing, we found that statins boosted the production of antibacterial DNA-based extracellular traps (ETs) by human and murine neutrophils and also monocytes/macrophages. The effect of statins to induce phagocyte ETs was linked to sterol pathway inhibition. We conclude that a drug therapy taken chronically by millions alters the functional behavior of phagocytic cells, which could have ramifications for susceptibility and response to bacterial infections in these patients.
Therapy with Migrant Farmer Mexican Immigrants Problems and Possible Solutions from Sociology

Those helping people with mental and emotional problems face a myriad of labels and interventions. In 1952, the American Psychiatric Association developed the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of M...
To cloud or not to cloud?: musings on costs and viability

In this paper we aim to understand the types of applications for which cloud computing is economically tenable, i.e., for which the cost savings associated with cloud placement outweigh any associated deployment costs. We discover two scenarios. (i) In an "unified client" scenario, where the cloud-hosted applications are only accessed by a single cloud customer (or small set of associates), it is important to ensure that the cost savings (mainly computation-related) can offset the often significant client-cloud distance (network costs etc). Today, from a technological, cost-centric point of view, this includes only compute-intensive applications with at least 1000 CPU cycles per each 32 bits of client-cloud transferred data. Naturally a number of other considerations may make clouds attractive even for less compute intensive tasks (services, security, pay-as-you-go nature etc). (ii) In a "multi-client" setting on the other hand, when outsourced applications serve numerous different third parties, we show that clouds begin to act similarly in nature to content-distribution networks - their better network integration is simply too good to pass on, when compared to locally hosting the applications (and incurring associated network costs). Thus, in multi-client scenarios, today's compute, energy and general technology costs suggest that outsourcing to clouds is profitable for almost any application. Ultimately, we hope this work will constitute a first step in an objective evaluation of the technological side of costs of outsourcing and computing in general.
Hierarchical micro-architectures of electrodes for energy storage

Abstract The design of electrodes for the electrochemical energy storage devices, particularly Lithium ion batteries (LIBs) and Supercapacitors (SCs), has extraordinary importance in optimization of electrochemical performance. Regardless of the materials used, the architecture of electrodes is crucial for charge transport efficiency and electrochemical interactions. This report provides a critical review of the prototype architectural design and micro- and nano-material properties designated to electrodes of LIBs and SCs. An alternative classification criterion is proposed that divides reported hierarchical architectures into two categories: aligned and unaligned structures. The structures were evaluated and it was found that the aligned architectures are superior to the unaligned in the following characteristics: 1) highly-organized charger pathways, 2) tunable interspaces between architecture units, and 3) good electric-contacted current collectors prepared along with electrodes. Based on these findings, challenges and potential routes to resolve those are provided for future development.
Ethnicity and human biology

Stanley Garn's book, Human Races (1965), captured the essence of the new genetic concept of ethnic groups as populations which share the same gene pool, shaped by natural selection. Since then new genetic traits, especially DNA polymorphisms, have been employed to build upon his vision. They have proven useful in the forensic sciences, medicine, and the human biology of adaptation, migration, evolution, and phylogeny. Some diseases like sickle cell anemia are controlled by single genes concentrated in a large ethnic group; their alleles are valuable for understanding human biology. Other conditions with a marked genetic component, such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis, predominate in certain ethnic groups. The new molecular biology tends to support the migration of farmers from west Asia into Europe in the Neolithic, the isolation of the Basques, and the early entrance of people into the New World. Some DNA data also favor the debatable hypothesis of the development of humanity in Africa and its subsequent dispersal. In many cases linguistic distance parallels genetic distance as language tends to influence gene flow. Apolipoproteins, with alleles unique to one major population group, are useful markers of admixture as well as significant for cardiovascular health. The Gullah-speaking Black people of coastal Carolina are distinctive and close to African ancestors in language, culture, and biology, including genetic markers. Modern research confirms that race (by any name) is quantitative rather than qualitative, relative rather than absolute, and dynamic rather than static. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Performance of smoothing by spectral dispersion (SSD) on Beamlet

The performance of the Beamlet laser with 1D SSD implemented is investigated. Simulations indicate that the critical issue for laser performance is the amount of additional divergence owing to SSD in comparison to the size of the spatial filter pinholes. At the current {plus_minus}200 {mu}rad pinholes used on Beamlet, simulations indicate that the levels of SSD divergence anticipated for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) results in a very slight degradation to the near field beam quality. Experiments performed with the Beamlet front end show no degradation to the near field beam with up to 100 {mu}rad of SSD divergence. Measurements of the smoothing of a far field speckle pattern generated by a phase plate show the expected improvement in contrast with increasing amounts of SSD divergence.
LMS: an adaptive optimal order statistic filter

padded finite length signals are considered, the fixed points of the LMS are allLOMO-(N+2), . In addition the corollary and prior results [3] show that if weconsider infinite length signals there are an infinite number of possible LOMO-(N+2) fixed points and a finite number of periodic fixed points possible. Thisdemonstrates that since the median is computationally more efficient than the
Decade of progress 1991-2001: HMD technology ready for platform integration

DoD has established many simulation programs and it has been concluded that an integrated head-mounted display (HMD) system can enhance situational awareness and augment operational performance of military units in the aforementioned fields. This paper will highlight the accomplishments of the advanced research, development, operational experiments and demonstrations over the past decade and will report on the current status of HMD integration.
Public Administration and Interdependence

In this article, we begin by reviewing the literature regarding the interaction between national bureaucratic systems and international actors and institutions. In particular, we find Keohane and Nye's notion of “complex interdependence” to be useful in understanding the emerging interactions and multifaceted nature of public administration. This is demonstrated by a case study of the successful partnership between Fiat and Chrysler, in which several public bureaucracies were essential. We conclude with our observations about public administration in an increasingly interdependent and globalizing world and offer an agenda for future research in the field.
Telemedicine effects: cost, quality, and access

Following a brief review of lessons learned from first generation telemedicine projects, an analytical framework for assessing the potential effects of telemedicine on cost, quality, and accessibility of health care is provided. It is proposed that the effects of telemedicine on cost, quality, and accessibility are interconnected, and a comprehensive assessment should incorporate all three aspects, each considered from the perspectives of clients, providers, and society.
Anisylazoformylarginine: a superior assay substrate for carboxypeptidase B type enzymes.

Abstract Anisylazoformylarginine (CH 3 OC 6 H 4 –N N–CO–Arg–OH) is rapidly hydrolyzed at the acyl-arginine linkage by the zinc-enzyme porcine carboxypeptidase B. The catalytic reaction is readily monitored spectrophotometrically by disappearance of the intense absorption (349 nm, e 19,100) of the azo chromophore, which chemically fragments after substrate cleavage.
Responsiveness of patients with VWD to DDAVP

Since the early discovery that desmopressin (DDAVP) would release von Willebrand factor (VWF) from vascular endothelium,[1][1] DDAVP has been considered a treatment option for those with type 1 von Willebrand disease (VWD), with the proviso that an adequate biologic response was demonstrated after
Optimum reorganization points for linearly growing files

The problem of finding optimal reorganization intervals for linearly growing files is solved. An approximate reorganization policy, independent of file lifetime, is obtained. Both the optimum and approximate policies are compared to previously published results using a numerical example.
A user oriented housing choice model

Abstract When choosing housing, individuals are often confronted with a fait accompli . Take what is offered, or leave it. Design is often based on past buying habits, but these do not necessarily represent design options that the consumer would prefer. In this study, a methodology to analyze the stated needs and preferences of residents of new rental housing is presented. The methodology based on data collected from extensive home interviews incorporates: (1) descriptions and definitions of underlying dimensions utilized in housing choice, (2) the determination of the similarity of existing and proposed offerings, and (3) the identification of homogeneous user groups and social characteristics of these groups to aid in the development of a model to help estimate user response to design innovations. The model makes use of multidimensional scaling techniques to assist in the analysis of detailed questions on housing attributes and overall rankings of the housing choices themselves. For the group studied, major dimensions of choice were determined to be size, value and luxury. Interior space attributes were considered more important than location and accessibility to activities. The study concludes with a discussion of the application of these measurements to the development of design criteria.
Perceptions of women related to food choice

Male and female subjects (predominately white) provided impression ratings of body shape, personality traits, and total caloric consumption for a female target based on her preference for a low fat or high fat diet. Results showed that meal type significantly affected impression ratings: the target who preferred low fat foods was viewed more favorably than the one who preferred high fat fare. Compared with male subjects, female subjects perceived the target who preferred a high fat diet to be significantly less conscientious. Males were significantly more accurate than females in their caloric estimations of targets' total daily consumption. The results will be discussed in terms of the social pressure on women to restrict not only their weight to acceptable levels, but their food consumption as well.
CONTINUOUS MURMUR IN MITRAL STENOSIS.

Abstract The case of a 48 year old white woman with rheumatic heart disease and mitral stenosis who developed a continuous murmur over the precordium is presented. The hemodynamic studies showed severe mitral stenosis, marked pulmonary hypertension and a left to right interatrial shunt due to a patent foramen ovale. It is emphasized that the audibility of this rare type of continuous murmur over the precordium is determined by the direction of the jet of blood, which is affected by the position of the heart, size of the left atrium and the location of the interatrial communication.
Creating Safe Schools

V iolent and potentially violent incidents in schools i the Uni d States continue to make the eadlines, with school-related violent deaths in the United States in the first half of the 2003-04 school year exceeding the deaths for the entire 2002-03 academic year (Vail 2004). There was a shooting outside the cafeteria in Ballou Senior High School in Washington, DC, and a female student was stabbed in a restroom at Southwood Middle
Mechanisms of flow-dependent endothelial COX-2 and PGI 2 expression

The luminal surfaces of blood vessels are covered with several membrane-bound glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) that constitute the endothelial glycocalyx layer (EGL) of endothelial cells(ECs). ECs, like all anchorage-dependent cells, adhere to the extracellular matrix at focal adhesions. By virtue of their cellular location and signaling abilities, it has been suggested that focal adhesions and the EGL may function as mechanoreceptors, by sensing and facilitating the transfer of “outside in”, mechanical signals across the plasma membrane. However, the mechanism by which ECs detect fluid shear stress (FSS) and transduce signals across the membrane to activate signaling pathways such as the induction of COX-2 and release of PGI 2 is still poorly understood. To directly test the role that focal adhesions (apical and basal) and the EGL play in mediating the “outside in”, COX-2 expression and PGI 2 mechanotransduction, we first limited the formation of focal adhesions by culturing ECs on fibronectin in the presence of soluble fibronectin fragments H-Gly-Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser-Pro-OH (GRGDSP) peptide, which competitively disrupts the fibronectin-integrin interactions, and selectively degraded the glycocalyx component heparan sulfate (HS) using the EGL degrading enzyme Heparanase III (HepIII). ECs were then subjected to fluid shear stress and COX-2 expression and PGI 2 release measured. Surprisingly, the expression and release of both COX-2 and PGI 2 in response to FSS were not significantly decreased in ECs treated with either GRGDSP or EGL degrading enzyme HepIII. These results suggest that the “outside in” pathway is not the major mechanotransduction route by which shear stress activates COX-2 and release of PGI 2 in ECs.
Orientation behaviour of Lepomis macrochirus Rafinesque to salinity fluctuations

The impact of the rate of salinity change has never been studied in primary freshwater fish occupying oligohaline marshes, where they are near their upper physiological limits. We conducted experiments on the bluegill sunfish, Lepomis macrochirus Rafinesque, to examine their orientation to salinity changes under winter temperature and photoperiod. We found significant difference in behavioural responses to rates of salinity change. The responses to the two flow rate changes indicate orthokinesis for ± 1.0‰ and −12.0‰ change h −1 treatments; however, a ‘closure’ type of response is apparent during +12.0‰ change h −1 treatment. These results indicate that bluegill sunfish respond behaviourally to salinity change, but reduce all overt activity when rate changes are unnatural and potentially lethal. It is apparent that behavioural and physiological responses are synergistic when the salinity exceeds a critical rate of change, which presumably is based upon the species' recent acclimatization history. Moreover, an orthokinetic response to the rate of salinity change may allow bluegill sunfish to move into and out of oligohaline marshes.
Rate of crystallization of an amorphous FePC alloy

An alloy containing iron, phosphorus and carbon in the atomic concentrations corresponding to Fe75P15C10 can be obtained in the amorphous state by rapid quenching from the liquid state. The transformation of this alloy from the amorphous to the equilibrium crystalline state has been studied by thermal analysis, X-ray and electrical resistivity. At rates of heating above approximately 320°C/min, the alloy transforms very rapidly into a microcrystalline structure with an average crystal size of about 300A. At slightly lower rates (about 100°C/min) it is possible to stop the massive crystallization and microcrystalline clusters of metastable phases imbedded in an amorphous matrix are present. At a relatively low rate of heating of 1°C/min, crystallization starts around 375°C, but has a sudden increase in the range of 420 to 440°C. This increase in crystallinity is reflected in the electrical resistivity which also shows a sharp drop within the same temperature range. Before this massive crystallization takes place, the electrical resistivity increases slowly with temperature. This behavior has been observed previously in a number of amorphous alloys. In the amorphous FePC alloy, this increase in resistivity is not a reversible phenomenon, and the results of the present investigation suggest that it is due to additional scattering of the conduction electrons by very small clusters of crystalline phases, about 50A in size.
Meditation and College Students' Self-Actualization and Rated Stress

This paper concerns the efficacy of meditation and relaxation in promoting self-actualization and changes in self-reported stress among 62 college students. Two groups were given mantra meditation and a yogic relaxation technique referred to as Shavasana. Pre- and posttest measures were taken on the Personal Orientation Inventory and the Behavioral Relaxation Scale. Both groups showed significant increases in scores on self-actualization; however, no differences were found between groups. Meditation training was associated with larger gains in scores on measures of systematic relaxed behavior than of the relaxation training.
Medical student and faculty perceptions of desirable primary care teaching site characteristics.

Background As the need to expand and improve primary care teaching experiences has mushroomed, the need to identify desirable preceptor and site characteristics has also grown. Purpose The current study was designed to assess the relative importance students and preceptors place on site versus preceptor characteristics. Methods After a required year-long primary care experience, third-year medical students (na 39) and primary care preceptors (na 20) completed a Q-sort exercise. Results In all analyses preceptor characteristics were ranked highest. The highest ranked item for students and preceptors was ‘The preceptor allows student to assume increasing levels of responsibility’. Seven of the highest ranked items appear on both groups’ top 10 list. Conclusions There is a high level of agreement between students and preceptors that preceptor rather than site characteristics make the vital difference in primary care educational experiences. When students and preceptors disagree, it is because preceptors see their rolemodelling characteristics related to relationships with patients as important, while students are more interested in the hands-on learning opportunities afforded by the preceptor.
A direct measure of pollinator effectiveness

A direct measure of pollinator effectiveness, relying on seed set, is proposed, where: [Formula: see text] P i =mean number of seeds set/flower by a plant population receiving a single visit from species i Z=mean number of seeds set/flower by a population receiving no visitation.U=mean number of seeds set/flower by a population receiving unrestrained visitation.The utility and limitations of the proposed measure are discussed and exemplified with a population of Ipomoea trichocarpa (Convoculaceae).
Quantifying magnetic nanoparticles in non-steady flow by MRI.

This work compares the measured $${{R}_{2}^*}$$ of magnetic nanoparticles to their corresponding theoretical values in both gel phantoms and dynamic water flows on the basis of the static dephasing theory. The magnetic moment of a nanoparticle solution was measured by a magnetometer. The $${{R}_{2}^*}$$ of the nanoparticle solution doped in a gel phantom was measured at both 1.5 and 4.7 T. A total of 12 non-steady state flow experiments with different nanoparticle concentrations were conducted. The $${{R}_{2}^*}$$ at each time point was measured. The theoretical $${{R}_{2}^*}$$ on the basis of the magnetization of nanoparticles measured by the magnetometer agree within 11% of MRI measurements in the gel phantom study, a significant improvement from previous work. In dynamic flow experiments, the total $${{R}_{2}^*}$$ calculated from each experiment agrees within 15% of the theoretical $${{R}_{2}^*}$$ for 10 of the 12 cases. The MRI phase values are also reasonably predicted by the theory. The diffusion effect does not seem to contribute significantly. Under certain situations with known $${{R}_{2}^*}$$ , the static dephasing theory can be used to quantify the susceptibility or concentration of nanoparticles in either a static or dynamic flow environment at a given time point. This approach may be applied to in vivo studies.
Input data reuse in compiling window operations onto reconfigurable hardware

Balancing computation with I/O has been considered as a critical factor of the overall performance for embedded systems in general and reconfigurable computing systems in particular. Data I/O often dominates the overall computation performance for window operation, which are frequently used in image processing, image compression, pattern recognition and digital signal processing. This problem is more acute in reconfigurable systems since the compiler must generate the data path and the sequence of operations. The challenge is to intelligently exploit data reuse on the reconfigurable fabric (FPGA) to minimize the required memory or I/O bandwidth while maximizing parallelism.In this paper, we present a compile-time approach to reuse data in window-based codes. The compiler, called ROCCC, first analyzes and optimizes the window operation in C. It then computes the size of the hardware buffer and defines three sets of data values for each window: the window set, the managed set and the killed set. This compile-time analysis simplifies the HDL code generation and improves the resulting hardware performance. We also discuss in-place window operations.
Pressure Gradient Across the Pulmonary Artery Anastomosis During Lung Transplantation

Background. Perioperative monitoring of pulmonary artery (PA) pressures in lung transplant recipients is critical. This report characterizes an intraoperative gradient across the PA anastomosis in a series of patients undergoing bilateral sequential lung transplantation. Methods. Hemodynamic measurements were obtained in a series of 10 patients before anesthetic induction, during one-lung ventilation/perfusion of the newly transplanted first lung with the PA catheter proximal and distal to the anastomosis and after arrival in the intensive care unit. The following measurements were recorded: central venous pressure, cardiac output, PA occlusion pressure, and systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures (systolic, diastolic, mean). Results. Although a systolic pressure gradient of more than 10 mm Hg across the anastomosis was observed in all patients, there was a significant variation in systolic (13 to 59 mm Hg), diastolic (2 to 10 mm Hg), and mean (5 to 27 mm Hg) PA gradients. Mean proximal systolic PA pressure measurements (56.2 ± 20.6 mm Hg) were greater when compared to measurements obtained distal to the anastomosis (28.6 ± 10.1 mm Hg, p = 0.001) and to those obtained in the postoperative period (32.1 ± 9.7 mm Hg, p = 0.004). Conclusions. The present study demonstrates that during single-lung ventilation and perfusion, the PA pressure measured proximally may not reflect accurately the pressure distal to the vascular anastomosis.
Parallel shape recognition and its implementation on a fixed-size VLSI architecture

In a prior paper [5]we have given a lower bound on the time to multiply in a group using a circuit of unit delay elements with limited fan-in. Also in that paper was a circuit realization for group multiplication requiring time at most one unit greater than the lower bound. In the present work we generalize that circuit construction method so as to render it applicable to any function f: X"1 x X"2 -> Y, where X"1 and X"2 are finite sets. We then examine the optimality of the method when S is a finite semigroup and f"l: S x S -> S is semigroup multiplication.
Search-based Job Scheduling for Parallel Computer Workloads

To balance performance goals and allow administrators to declaratively specify high-level performance goals, we apply complete search algorithms to design on-line job scheduling policies for workloads that run on parallel computer systems. We formulate a hierarchical two-level objective that contains two goals commonly placed on parallel computer systems: (1) minimizing the total excessive wait; (2) minimizing the average slowdown. Ten monthly workloads that ran on a Linux cluster (IA-64) from NCSA are used in our simulation of policies. A wide range of measures are used for performance evaluation, including the average slowdown, average wait, maximum wait, and new measures based on excessive wait. For the workloads studied, our results show that the best search-based scheduling policy (i.e., DDS/lxf/dynB) reported here simultaneously beats both FCFS-backfill and LXF-backfill, each roughly providing a lower bound on maximum wait and the average slowdown, respectively, among backfill policies
Strain Measurements Using Fiber Bragg Grating Array

A 3 element, 15 cm Fiber Bragg Grating Array (FBGA), utilizing Coherent Optical Frequency Domain Reflectometry interrogation, was attached to a 75 cm cantilever beam. FBGA axial strain results showed agreement with electric strain gages.
In situ CO oxidation on well characterized Pt3Sn(hkl) surfaces: A selective review

Bimetallic single crystals Pt3Sn(1 1 0) and Pt3Sn(1 1 1) have been characterized for in situ CO oxidation. Surface composition and structure were established in ultra high vacuum (UHV) by Auger electron spectroscopy, low energy ion scattering spectroscopy (LEISS) and low energy electron diffraction (LEED). LEED patterns of Pt3Sn(hkl) are consistent with the surface composition, determined by LEISS, of � 25 or 50 at.% Sn. Following UHV characterization crystals were transferred into the electrochemical environment where surface electrochemistry of adsorbed CO was studied in situ by infrared spectroscopy. Changes in band morphology and vibrational properties: splitting of the band and increase in the frequency mode, were found on Pt3Sn(hkl) and correlated to Pt(hkl) surfaces. Continuous oxidative removal of adsorbed CO starts as low as E < 0.1 V, which is an important property for CO-tolerant catalysts. In addition to electronic effects, other factors, such as surface structure and intermolecular repulsion between adsorbed species are responsible for high catalytic activity of Pt3Sn(hkl) alloys. � 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Single-point parallel disk correction for asymptotically nonlinear oscillatory shear

We derive exact single-point corrections for parallel disk measurements of all four asymptotically nonlinear measures under strain-controlled oscillatory shear. In this regime, sometimes called medium-amplitude oscillatory shear (MAOS), the derivatives appearing in the general stress correction are constant over the range of interest. This enables an exact single-point correction of all four shear stress components and material functions in the asymptotically nonlinear regime. This greatly simplifies the data processing and allows convenient measurements of true nonlinear material functions with parallel disk geometries. We use a strain amplitude expansion for the stress response, introducing a general non-integer strain amplitude scaling for the leading order nonlinearity, σ ∼ γ α , where typically α = 3 has been assumed in the past. The stress corrections are a multiplicative amplification by a factor $f\left (\alpha \right )=\frac {\alpha +3}{4}$ , shown for the first time for all four asymptotically nonlinear coefficients. Experimental measurements are presented for the four asymptotically nonlinear signals on an entangled polymer melt of cis-1,4-polyisoprene, using both parallel disk and cone fixtures. The polymer melt follows a cubic (α = 3) strain amplitude scaling in the MAOS regime. The theoretical corrections indicate a 50 % amplification of the apparent signals measured with the parallel disk fixture. The corrected (amplified) signals match the measurements with the cone.
Interaction of folate with reduced ferredoxin.

Abstract The mechanism of the enzyme pterin reductase from Clostridium sticklandii has been examined. Other workers had shown that this enzyme catalyzes the reduction of folate to dihydrofolate with pyruvate as the reducing agent. Reduced ferredoxin has been found as an intermediate in the reaction. Either reduced ferredoxin or reduced benzyl viologen can reduce folate to dihydrofolate in the absence of pterin reductase. Thus, the role of pyruvate in this reaction is to reduce ferredoxin, which then reacts non-enzymatically with folate to form dihydrofolate. This type of interaction between reduced ferredoxin and folate may be responsible for the reduction of other oxidized pteridine compounds to their dihydro forms.
Anticoagulant properties of a red tide toxin.

Abstract The effect of toxins from the Florida red tide organism Gymnodinium breve Davis (gymnodin) and from the chrysomonad Prymnesium parvum Carter (prymnesim) on the coagulation time of human blood plasma is described. Prymnesim was inactive at a concentration of 4 mg per 0·05 ml aliquot, though the toxin is known to be a potent hemolysin. Gymnodin inhibited the clotting process at a concentration of 0·05 mg per 0·05 ml aliquot. Other anticoagulating agents were studied. Activities were compared in terms of the amounts of anticoagulant required to double the prothrombin time. On this basis, gymnodin had 1 6 the activity of carrageenan and 1 70 the activity of heparin. The anticoagulant activity of gymnodin appears to be the first such activity reported for a toxin from a red tide organism. Available evidence indicated the anticoagulant properties of gymnodin were not responsible for the ichthyotoxicity.
Osmotic gradient dependence of osmotic water permeability in rabbit proximal convoluted tubule.

To assess steady-state transepithelial osmotic water permeability (P f ), rabbit proximal convoluted tubules were perfused in vitro with the impermeant salt, sodium isethionate at 26°C. Osmotic gradients (ΔΠ) were established by varying the bath concentration of the impermeant solute, raffinose. When lumen osmolality was 300 mOsm and bath osmolality was 320, 360 and 400 mOsm, apparentP f decreased from 0.5 to 0.10 to 0.08 cm/sec, respectively. Similar data were obtained when lumen osmolality was 400 mOsm. Five possible causes of the ΔΠ dependence of apparentP f were considered experimentally and/or theoretically: (1) external unstirred layer (USL); (2) cytoplasmic USL; (3) change in surface area; (4) saturation of water transport; (5) down-regulation ofP f . ApparentP f was inhibited 83% byp-chloromercuribenzene sulfonate (pCMBS) at 20 mOsm, but not at 60 mOsm ΔΠ, suggesting presence of a serial barrier resistance to water transport. Increases in perfusate or bath solution flow rate and viscosity did not alter apparentP f , ruling out an external USL. A simple cytoplasmic USL, described by a constant USL thickness and solute diffusion coefficient, could not account for the ΔΠ dependence of apparentP f according to a mathematical model. The activation energy (E a ) for apparentP f increased from 7.0 to 12.5 kcal/mol when ΔΠ was increased from 20 to 60 mOsm, not consistent with a simple USL or a change in membrane surface area with transepithelial water flow. These findings are most consistent with a complex cytoplasmic USL, where the average solute diffusion coefficient and/or the area available for osmosis decrease with increasing ΔΠ. These results (1) indicate that trueP f (at physiologically low ΔΠ) is very high (>0.5 cm/sec) in the rabbit proximal tubule; (2) provide an explanation for the wide variation inP f values reported in the literature using different ΔΠ, and (3) suggest the presence of a flow-dependent cytoplasmic barrier to water flow.