cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling scatter-to-primary dose ratio for megavoltage photon beams

Purpose: A three-parameter semiempirical model for scatter-to-primarydose ratio (SPR) is proposed to fit PDD (or TPR) and S p beam data. The SPR formula proposed in this study is more accurate than the previously published formula utilizing two parameters, especially for lower energy megavoltage photon beams, because the effect of backscatteredphotons is now taken into account. Methods: Monte Carlo(MC) calculated SPR for photon energy spectrum between C 60 o and 24 MV are used to evaluate the accuracy of the models. Based on fitting the MC data, the dependence of the SPR parameters ( a 0 , w 0 , d 0 ) with the attenuation coefficients of the photon beams is obtained and they were incorporated into the authors’ optimization routine. The ability of the optimization routine to fit measured clinic data is examined for photon energies ranging from C 60 o to 25 MV for all major cobalt and linear accelerator manufacturers. Results: The authors’ model successfully fits the measured photon beam data for field size ( E / 3 – 40 cm ) , where E is photon energy in MV and for clinically usable depths, d max to 20 cm for C 60 o , d max to 30 cm for 4 MV, and d max to 40 cm for 6 MV and higher photon energies. The maximum error among these fits is better than 2% for photon energies above C 60 o . Conclusions: The new SPR formula, along with the optimization routine, can serve as an efficient tool for performing quality control of x-ray beam data that conforms to AAPM Radiation Therapy Committee TG40 and Therapy Physics Committee TG142 reports on beam data requirement.
Response functions for bismuth germanate detectors

Abstract A method of calculating the line shape and absolute efficiency of a 7.6 cm by 7.6 cm bismuth germanate scintillator for incident γ-rays between 6 and 40 MeV has been developed. The computer code “CYLTRAN” was used to calculate the energy deposited in the crystal, and the output of the code was smeared with an empirically determined resolution.function. The results of these calculations are compared to pulse height spectra measured using monoenergetic photons. This technique should be applicable to a wide range of experimental geometries and scintillator types.
Lung abscess due to retained gallstones with an adenocarcinoma.

We describe a patient who had a right lower lobe mass containing calcifications consistent with gallstones develop 3 1 / 2 years after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Thoracotomy revealed a chronic abscess containing pigmented gallstones and an adjacent area of bronchoalveolar adenocarcinoma involving both N1 and N2 lymph nodes.
Managerial responsibilities and procedural justice

This article identifies managerial responsibilities associated with ensuring fairness in the implementation of decision-making procedures in organizations. These responsibilities include giving adequate consideration to employees' viewpoints, suppressing biases, applying decision-making criteria consistently, providing timely feedback, giving justification, being truthful in communication, and treating employees with courtesy and civility. The article concludes with a discussion of the theoretical and practical implications of this analysis for procedural justice in organizations
Thermal Loading of a Direct Drive Target Rarefied Gas

In an inertial fusion energy (IFE) power plant, each fusion micro-explosion (∼10 Hz) causes thermal and structural loads on the IFE reactor wall and driver optics. The loading on the wall must remain sufficiently low to ensure that economic and safety constraints are met. One proposed method for decreasing the intensity of the wall loading is to fill the reaction chamber with a gas, such as Xe, at low density. The gas will absorb much of the radiation and ion energy from the fusion event, and then slowly release it to the chamber wall. Unfortunately the protective gas introduces major heat loads on the direct drive target. The thermal loading of a target, during injection, largely determines the viability of that target upon reaching chamber center. Thus, the density of the gas must he carefully selected to ensure that a target will survive injection. The objective of this work is to quantify and characterize the heat flux resulting from the interaction of the target and the protective gas. The loading of the target is modeled using DS2V, a commercial DSMC (Direct Simulation Monte Carlo) program. Using DS2V, this work explores the effect of the protective gas density, temperature, sticking (condensation) and accommodation coefficients on the heat flux to the target.
Suppressing Impacts of the Amazonian Deforestation by the Global Circulation Change

Analyzing the Global Historical Climatology Network, outgoing longwave radiation, and NCEP–NCAR reanalysis data over the Amazon Basin, the authors find a clear interdecadal increasing trend over the past four decades in both rainfall and intensity of the hydrological cycle. These interdecadal variations are a result of the interdecadal change of the global divergent circulation. On the contrary, the impact of the Amazon deforestation as evaluated by all numerical studies has found a reduction of rainfall and evaporation, and an increase of temperature in the Amazon Basin extending its dry season. Evidently, the interdecadal trend of the basin's hydrological cycle revealed from observations functions in a course opposite to the deforestation scenario. Results of this study suggest that future studies analyzing the impact of the basin-scale deforestation on the regional hydrological cycle and climate should be reassessed with multidecade numerical simulations including both schemes handling the land-surface...
Against the odds: academic underdogs benefit from incremental theories

An implicit theory of ability approach to motivation argues that students who believe traits to be malleable (incremental theorists), relative to those who believe traits to be fixed (entity theorists), cope more effectively when academic challenges arise. In the current work, we integrated the implicit theory literature with research on top dog and underdog status to predict self-efficacy in an academic context. To examine our predictions, we assessed college students’ (N = 165) implicit theories of mathematical ability and manipulated their underdog versus top dog status in a math competition. We hypothesized that holding an incremental (vs. entity) theory would interact with competition status (underdog vs. top dog) to predict mathematical self-efficacy. When in an underdog position, incremental (vs. entity) theories boosted students’ mathematical self-efficacy. Moreover, a mediated moderation model revealed that the experience of less helplessness accounted for greater self-efficacy in mathematical ability among academic underdogs with incremental (vs. entity) theories. Implications for teaching practices are discussed.
To buy or not to buy? A social dilemma perspective on green buying

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to draw on social dilemma theory and reference group theory to explain the attitude‐behavior inconsistency in environmental consumerism. This research seeks to better understand why, despite concern towards the environment (attitude), consumers fail to purchase environmentally friendly or green products (behavior).Design/methodology/approach – A survey instrument was developed that used scales to measure eight independent and one dependent variable. In addition, socio‐demographic data were also collected about the study participants. To discriminate between green and non‐green buyers, classification with discriminant analysis was used.Findings – The framework presented contributes to the environmental consumerism literature by framing the attitude‐behavior gap as a social dilemma and draws on reference group theory to identify individual factors to help understand the gap and suggest ways in which to bridge it. Results from the study reveal that several characteristi...
Polyaniline coated on aluminum (Al‐2024‐T3): Characterization and electrochemical studies

A polyaniline coating was deposited onto an Al-2024-T3 substrate using oxalic acid as electrolyte. Both galvanostatic and potentiostatic techniques were used to deposit polyaniline on aluminum under aqueous conditions. The dc polarization studies showed that polyaniline coatings reduced the corrosion rate of Al-2024-T3 significantly by about threefold compared to that of the control. The passivation of the polyaniline-coated aluminum was characterized by reflection absorption infrared spectroscopy and cyclic voltametry. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1669–1675, 2002
Do all drugs and treatments for rheumatoid arthritis have the same efficacy

In the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, where can clinicians find the information to help them decide which drugs to use in what combination and when to use them? In this Viewpoint, the author argues that there is a need to look beyond short-term efficacy studies, and highlights several unanswered questions still to be addressed.
Multitemporal Analysis of TRMM-Based Satellite Precipitation Products for Land Data Assimilation Applications

Abstract In this study, the recent work of Gottschalck et al. and Ebert et al. is extended by assessing the suitability of two Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM)-based precipitation products for hydrological land data assimilation applications. The two products are NASA’s gauge-corrected TRMM 3B42 Version 6 (3B42), and the satellite-only NOAA Climate Prediction Center (CPC) morphing technique (CMORPH). The two products were evaluated against ground-based rain gauge–only and gauge-corrected Doppler radar measurements. The analyses were performed at multiple time scales, ranging from annual to diurnal, for the period March 2003 through February 2006. The analyses show that at annual or seasonal time scales, TRMM 3B42 has much lower biases and RMS errors than CMORPH. CMORPH shows season-dependent biases, with overestimation in summer and underestimation in winter. This leads to 50% higher RMS errors in CMORPH’s area-averaged daily precipitation than TRMM 3B42. At shorter time scales (5 days or less),...
Comparison of intravenous and intramuscular sincalide (C-terminal octapeptide of cholecystokinin) on gallbladder contraction in man

The effects of intramuscular and intravenous sincalide on gallbladder contraction and visualization of the bile ducts were compared in a group of 37 subjects referred for oral cholecystography. The maximum reduction in gallbladder size observed after sincalide 400 ng/kg intramuscular, 54.7±7.2% (mean ±SEM), occurred 25 min after injection and was significantly greater than that observed after sincalide 20 ng/kg intravenous, 26.5±8.2%. Maximum reduction after sincalide 100 ng/kg intramuscular was 47.3±8.2%. The common bile duct was visualized in 60 and 45% of subjects after intramuscular and intravenous sincalide, respectively. The use of intramuscular sincalide 400 ng/kg intramuscular is an effective and convenient adjunct to oral cholecystography when significant gallbladder contraction and visualization of the common bile duct is desired.
1-Stearyl,2-stearoylaminodeoxy phosphatidylcholine, a potent reversible inhibitor of phospholipase A2

Abstract 1-stearyl, 2-stearoylaminodeoxy phosphatidylcholine, a structurally modified phospholipid substrate analog exhibits potent and reversible inhibition of phospholipase A 2 from cobra venom ( N. naja naja ). The apparent K I values determined in two different assay systems employing phosphatidylcholine-surfactant mixed micelles are in reasonable agreement (40 μM and 16 μM) and indicate that the inhibitor binds to the enzyme as much as two orders of magnitude more tightly than does dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine. With phosphatidylethanolamine as substrate, the kinetics are more complicated as the analog also exhibits activation, presumably at a second binding site on the enzyme.
A comparison of the intraocular reactions of rabbits to yeast-phase and mycelial-phase histoplasmin.

Rabbits given intravitreal or suprachoroidal injections of yeast-phase or mycelial-phase histoplasmin developed endophthalmitis. The degree of this reaction could be influenced by intradermal injection of the antigen prior to intrabulbar injection. Intradermal injection of yeast-phase histoplasmin enhanced the endophthalmitis, whereas injection of mycelial-phase histoplasmin depressed it.
Evidence-Based Guidelines As a Foundation For Performance Incentives

Clinical guidelines, which increasingly build upon impartial analysis of evidence from well-designed studies, have become highly credible sources of information about what forms of care are effective. Consequently, they are attractive as foundations for performance incentives. Unfortunately, they are often complex, and frequently it is infeasible to gather the information required to assess compliance with guidelines at reasonable cost. I discuss the problems in implementing evidence-based guidelines and steps that could be taken to make them more useful as a basis for performance measurement.
Interfollicular small lymphocytic lymphoma: The diagnostic significance of pseudofollicles

The pathologic, immunologic, and clinical features of 25 cases of interfollicular (IF) small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) characterized by pseudofollicles (PFs) in the IF region of the lymph nodes and by multiple reactive follicles (RFs) were examined. IFSLL is characterized morphologically by variable numbers and sizes of prolymphocytes (nuclei showing one centrally located prominent nucleolus) in the PFs and by small round lymphocytes in the IF region. The lymph nodes in our cases had multiple RFs (100%) and patent or partially patent sinuses (72%), with moderate expansion of the IF region (48%) and typically absent or minimal perinodal infiltration (48%). In 48% of the cases, the PFs surrounded the RFs, producing a pseudo-mantle zone pattern. Immunologic study showed the medium and large prolymphocytes to be mildly LN 1- and LN 2-positive, whereas the small prolymphocytes and lymphocytes were LN 1-negative and moderately LN 2-positive. Few cells in the IF region stained with UCHL-1 antibody. These data indicate the marked preponderance of the non-follicular center cell type of B cells in the IF areas. In all 11 cases tested, a monoclonal B cell population was found. The mean age of the patients was 62 years, with a male to female ratio of 1:1.7. B symptoms were present in 20% of the patients. Nineteen percent of the patients had clinical stage I or II disease, whereas 81% had stage IV disease. The median absolute lymphocyte count was 3,239 X 10(6), with a range of 767 to 13,770 X 10(6) cells/L. In six cases, the lymphocyte count was above 4,000 X 10(6), and in no case was it more than 15,000 X 10(6). It was difficult to distinguish these cases of IFSLL from lymphadenitis and other non-Hodgkin's lymphomas because it was difficult to recognize the subtle PF pattern in the presence of a partially preserved lymph node architecture. Because of the partially retained lymph node architecture and the expansion of the IF region by PFs, this lymphoma is thought to originate from the IF small B lymphocytes, which displayed an in situ growth pattern. Moreover, because of the predominant disease in the lymph nodes and the similarity of features in PFs and follicles, we conclude that IFSLL is a disease that is primary to the lymph nodes. IFSLL should be distinguished from mantle zone lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
The expression of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) and splice variants of its receptor in human gastroenteropancreatic carcinomas.

Splice variants (SVs) of receptors for growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) have been found in primary human prostate cancers and diverse human cancer cell lines. GHRH antagonists inhibit growth of various experimental human cancers, including pancreatic and colorectal, xenografted into nude mice or cultured in vitro, and their antiproliferative action could be mediated in part through SVs of GHRH receptors. In this study we examined the expression of mRNA for GHRH and for SVs of its receptors in tumors of human pancreatic, colorectal, and gastric cancer cell lines grown in nude mice. mRNA for both GHRH and SV1 isoform of GHRH receptors was expressed in tumors of pancreatic (SW1990, PANC-1, MIA PaCa-2, Capan-1, Capan-2, and CFPAC1), colonic (COLO 320DM and HT-29), and gastric (NCI-N87, HS746T, and AGS) cancer cell lines; mRNA for SV2 was also present in Capan-1, Capan-2, CFPAC1, HT-29, and NCI-N87 tumors. In proliferation studies in vitro, the growth of pancreatic, colonic, and gastric cancer cells was stimulated by GHRH(1–29)NH2 and inhibited by GHRH antagonist JV-1–38. The stimulation of some gastroenteropancreatic cancer cells by GHRH was followed by an increase in cAMP production, and GHRH antagonist JV-1–38 competitively inhibited this effect. Our study indicates the presence of an autocrine/paracrine stimulatory loop based on GHRH and SV1 of GHRH receptors in human pancreatic, colorectal, and gastric cancers. The finding of SV1 receptor in human cancers provides an approach to an antitumor therapy based on the blockade of this receptor by specific GHRH antagonists.
Continuous‐bed columns containing sol–gel bonded octadecylsilica for capillary liquid chromatography

Continuous-bed columns of 200 μm inner diameter containing sol–gel bonded small-pore (5 μm, 90 A) and large-pore (5 μm, 1400 A) octadecylsilica particles were prepared for capillary liquid chromatography using a sol–gel process. These columns were found to be mechanically strong and permeable. The back pressures per centimeter column bed for columns packed with the same particle size were nearly the same, regardless of the pore size. The large-pore and small-pore continuous-bed columns generated efficiencies of 1.16×105 and 0.57×105 plates per meter, respectively. Since conventional liquid chromatography packing materials were utilized to form the continuous-bed columns, selectivities similar to conventional liquid chromatography were obtained. The small-pore continuous-bed columns exhibited stronger retention than the large-pore continuous-bed columns because the small-pore particles possessed higher surface area and carbon load than the large-pore particles. The sol–gel bonded continuous-bed columns were inert to aromatic amines primarily due to the incorporation of a deactivation precursor in the sol–gel matrix. ©2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 12: 6–12, 2000
Diagnostic Biopsy of the Pronator Teres and a Motor Branch of the Median Nerve: Indications and Technique

Purpose Biopsy of muscle tissue and motor nerve is helpful in the neurological evaluation of patients who present with upper limb and/or diffuse motor weakness. The procedure is indicated to supplement clinical, serological, and imaging diagnostic work-up of myopathic and neuropathic disorders. We describe a surgical technique and clinical series of biopsy of the pronator teres muscle and a motor branch of the median nerve. Methods We performed a retrospective review of 20 patients who underwent biopsy of the pronator teres and a motor branch of the median nerve as part of a clinical, serological, and radiographic evaluation for weakness of the upper extremity. All of the biopsies were performed by a single surgeon. The surgical technique is described. Follow-up visits with both the surgeon and the neurologist were reviewed to evaluate preoperative and postoperative neurological function to identify any changes in nerve or muscle function and any postoperative complications. Results Biopsied tissue was sufficient for pathological diagnosis in all 20 patients. Diagnoses included multifocal motor neuropathy in 14 patients, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in 3 patients (2 sporadic; 1 familial), inclusion body myositis (1 patient), inflammatory myopathy (1 patient), and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (1 patient). At a mean follow-up of 11 weeks (range, 5–31 wk), there were 6 minor surgical complications, all of which were superficial hematomas that resolved with use of a compressive wrap. Conclusions Biopsy of the pronator teres and a motor branch of the median nerve was safe and effective. The technique is particularly useful when considering the diagnosis of multifocal motor neuropathy affecting the upper extremity. Type of study/level of evidence Diagnostic III.
Mortality in a Massachusetts general population.

Abstract The mortality experience of 4431 members of the general population of the Boston area was evaluated. From 1925 to 1975, persons aged 45 and above were selected at random from annual residents' lists of specified census tracts. Follow-up was done exclusively using public records: death lists, annual residents lists, Polk directories and telephone books. Fifty per cent of the men and 44% of the women were found to be deceased; 33% of the men and 34% of the women were lost to follow-up. The percentage lost varied only slightly according to age at entrance or year of entrance. The number of deaths expected from a variety of causes was computed on the basis of mortality rates and of proportional mortality ratios. The expected numbers of cause-specific deaths obtained using each method were similar.
Microvascular ear replantation

Microvascular ear replantation is a rare event, having been reported only 25 times since the first case in 1980. It requires a lengthy operative time and hospital stay, results in multiple blood transfusions, and has a significant failure rate. Nevertheless, a successful ear replantation is a dramatic demonstration of the power of microsurgery to restore a lost part. When successful, it obviates the need for other complex reconstructive efforts and provides an unsurpassed aesthetic result. This article reviews the history of microsurgical and nonmicrosurgical ear replantation and presents recommendations for treatment.
Brain Metabolic Correlates of Decision Making in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment

Persons with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) have subtle impairments in medical decision-making capacity (MDC). We examined the relationship between proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and MDC in MCI. Twenty-nine MCI patients and 42 controls underwent MRS to obtain ratios of N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/Creatine (Cr), Choline (Cho)/Cr, and myo-Inositol (mI)/Cr of the posterior cingulate. They also completed the Capacity to Consent to Treatment Instrument (CCTI), a vignette-based instrument measuring decisional standards of expressing choice, appreciating consequences of choice, providing rational reasons for choice, and understanding treatment choices. Patients showed abnormal MRS ratios of mI/Cr and Cho/Cr compared to controls, and impairments on the CCTI understanding and reasoning Standards. Performance on the reasoning standard of the CCTI was correlated with NAA/Cr (r = .46, p < .05). The relationship of NAA/Cr with decision-making suggests a role for posterior cortical neuronal functioning in performance of complex IADLs in MCI.
A formal analogy between Baer subplanes and their complements

A syntactical “princple” similar to the usual Duality Principle is developed which relates the properties of a Baer subplane to the properties of the subplane's relative complement. (In fact this principle is shown to characterize the notion of Baer subplane.) Two known results are presented (and extended) from this point-of-view.
The Effect of Signal Perturbation Parameters on Images Produced on Film by Light Emitting Diodes

The results of an investigation of the relations between various important parameters of a picture making model are presented. Temporal and spatial perturbations are used to control the distribution of energy on film. The necessary relations that must be satisfied in order to achieve sharply defined edges and uniform energy distributions in dark areas are obtained.
Induced fit as a determinative of ionophore selectivity.

Abstract The conformation of the carboxylic ionophore salinomycin has been examined in a variety of solvents by circular dichroism. The solution conformation of the ionophore has been correlated with Na + and K + affinity and selectivity. Cation selectivity appears to be a function of both the initial conformation of the free anionic ionophore and the ability of the latter to reorient about the cation. An analogy to the induced fit model of enzyme-substrate interaction is proposed.
Craniofacial dyssynostosis in two boys with apparently normal cognitive development

Sam F. Lahidji, Steven R. Buchman, Karin Muraszko, Jeffrey W. Innis, and Catherine E. Keegan* Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Energetics of charged metallic particles: From atom to bulk solid.

The energy of a spherical metallic particle of radius R, charged with Z excess electrons, is simply ${E}_{Z}$=${E}_{0}$-ZW+${Z}^{2}$${e}^{2}$/2(R+a), where W is the bulk work function, e is the charge of one electron, and R+a is the radial centroid of the excess charge. Consequently, the ionization energy is I=W+${e}^{2}$/2(R+a), and the electron affinity is A=W-${e}^{2}$/2(R+a). These formulas apply even to the smallest microparticle, a single monovalent atom. Thus they may be used to estimate the bulk work function W=(I+A)/2 and density parameter (Wigner-Seitz radius) ${r}_{s}$ from atomic values for I and A; ${r}_{s}$ is the solution of the equation ${r}_{s}$+a(${r}_{s}$)=${e}^{2}$/(I-A). The link between microcosm and macrocosm is further shown by the relationship ${\ensuremath{\varepsilon}}_{\mathrm{coh}\mathrm{\ensuremath{\approxeq}}\mathrm{\ensuremath{\sigma}}4\mathrm{\ensuremath{\pi}}{r}_{s}^{2}}$ between the cohesive energy ${\ensuremath{\varepsilon}}_{\mathrm{coh}}$ and the surface tension \ensuremath{\sigma}. These relationships are illustrated for atoms and small jellium spheres.
Orthotopic vascularized right lung transplantation in the mouse

Objectives Orthotopic left lung transplantation in the mouse, as recently developed by our laboratory, represents a physiologic model for studies in transplantation biology. However, because of the limited overall respiratory contribution of the murine left lung, left lung transplant recipients remain healthy despite immune-mediated graft necrosis. We sought to develop a lung transplantation model in which animal survival depends on graft function. Methods Orthotopic vascularized right lung transplantations using cuff techniques were performed in syngeneic and allogeneic strain combinations. Grafts were assessed histologically or functionally by measuring arterial blood gases from 7 to 28 days after transplantation. In a parallel set of experiments, syngeneic and immunosuppressed allogeneic hosts underwent a left pneumonectomy 2 weeks after right lung transplantation, with assessment of graft function 1 week later. Results We performed 40 right lung transplantations, with a survival rate of 87.5%. Syngeneic grafts remain free of inflammation as far as 28 days after transplantation. On day 7, arterial oxygen levels in syngeneic recipients (481 ± 90 mm Hg) are equivalent to those in naive mice (503 ± 59 mm Hg) after left hilar occlusion. Alternatively, allogeneic grafts develop histologic evidence of acute rejection, and arterial oxygen levels are significantly decreased after left hilar clamping (53.3 ± 10.3 mm Hg). Both syngeneic and immunosuppressed allogeneic right lung recipients tolerate a left pneumonectomy. Conclusions Right lung transplantation followed by left pneumonectomy represents the first survival model of vascularized lung transplantation in the mouse and will therefore allow for the design of novel studies in experimental lung transplantation.
Characterization of the lipids of some orchids

Abstract The lipids from leaves, spikes, pseudobulbs and roots from hybrid Phalaenopsis, Cattleya and Cymbidium have been characterized. The fatty acids from total lipid extracts revealed the presence of significant proportions of odd chain saturated acids ranging from C15 to C23 in all three genera. Leaf hydrocarbons of Phalaenopsis had high proportions of 31 and 33 carbon normal paraffins, whereas the major hydrocarbons from roots were 25, 27, 29 and 31 carbon normal paraffins. Steroid esters from Phalaenopsis contained principally long chain saturated acids. Analysis of phospholipids, fatty acids, triglycerides and steroid esters from Phalaenopsis revealed the presence of more than 30% saturated acids in each class. Leaf cuticle from Phalaenopsis was degraded and found to contain steroid residues, aromatic residues and principally saturated fatty acids ranging from C13 to C26.
Sublethal effects of chronic oil exposure on the intertidal clam Macoma balthica

When exposed to Prudhoe Bay crude oil in flowing seawater for 180 days, the small intertidal clam Macoma balthica showed behavioral, physical, physiological and biochemical changes. At a high concentration of oil in seawater (3.0 mg l-1) burrowing rate decreased, respiration rate increased, growth was inhibited, and very high mortalities resulted. The lowest concentration of oil in seawater (0.03 mg l-1) inhibited growth and caused reabsorption of gametes. One group of adverse oil effects which was related to sluggishness and disorientation of the clams appeared after a week of exposure to oil; another group related to a negative energy balance was not observed until 60 days. We conclude that chronic exposure of M. balthica to oil-in-seawater concentrations even as low as 0.03 mg l-1 will, in time, lead to population decreases.
75 Does the “Obesity Paradox” in Chronic Heart Failure Fade after Mechanical Circulatory Support with Continuous Flow Devices: Analysis from the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support

Purpose In the "obesity paradox," overweight patients with chronic heart failure demonstrate increased survival as compared to their lean counterparts. Since the natural history of systolic heart failure is modified by mechanical circulatory support (MCS), we hypothesized that obese patients on continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (CF LVADs) would have equivalent survival. Methods and Materials 1435 patients implanted with a CF LVAD were identified from the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) and grouped according to BMI categories. Kaplan-Meier (KM) and adjusted Cox Proportional Hazards analyses were performed. Results The median BMI in this cohort was 27.9kg/m 2 with 37% obese. The obese patient was younger, more likely to have diabetes, and less likely to be in NYHA class IV on inotropes. Over a mean follow-up period of 9.4 months, mortality was 15.9%. In KM analyses, no difference in survival was observed among the BMI categories. After adjusting for relavant covariates including diabetes, we identified equivalent survival in the patient with a BMI ≥ 30 (RR 0.89, p=0.47). Diabetes remained a significant risk factor with the lean diabetic patient carrying the highest mortality risk (RR 2.01, p=0.0008, compared to the obese non-diabetic). Conclusions Survival with a CF LVAD is equivalent in patients with obesity and advanced heart failure. Future studies targetting other endpoints, including adverse events and recurrent hospitalizations, are necessary to determine if diet-induced obesity is a significant risk factor in selecting patients for long term MCS with CF LVADs.
Positive Inotropic Responses and Catecholamine Content of Iqolated Rabbit Atria Exposed to Tyramine

The noradrenaline (NA) content of isolated rabbit atria was essentially unchanged following perfusion with tyramine (100 μg/ml) for 30 min. Over the same period the positive inotropic effect of tyramine was still 75 per cent of the peak response. After prolonged exposure (2–3 hours) the NA content decreased about 25 per cent and the inotropic effect about 50 per cent. In general, there was a correlation between the reduction in the response to c and the NA content. However, the NA content was still 40–50 per cent of the control value when the tissue responded no longer to tyramine. At that time the tissue was fully responsive to administered NA. The reduction in the NA content of the tissue could not supply more than a total of 0.1 to 0.2 μg NA over 2–3 hours. This suggests a considerable synthesis of NA in vitro if the effect of tyramine is indeed mediated through NA release. Direct measurement showed that 30 min after the end of a prolonged tyramine infusion the NA tissue content was restored by an amount corresponding to about 20 per cent of the control value. This however, did not restore the response to tyramine.
Microcontroller-based Feedback Control Laboratory Experiments

this paper is a result of the implementation of the recommendations on enhancing hands-on experience of control engineering education using single chip, small scale computers such as microcontrollers. A set of microcontroller-based feedback control experiments was developed for the Electrical Engineering curriculum at the University of North Florida. These experiments provided hands-on techniques that students can utilize in the development of complete solutions for a number of servo control problems. Significant effort was devoted to software development of feedback controllers and the associated signal conditioning circuits interfacing between the microcontroller and the physical plant. These experiments have stimulated the interest of our students in control engineering.
Financial considerations of policy options to enhance biomass utilization for reducing wildfire hazards

Abstract The Harvest Cost–Revenue Estimator, a financial model, was used to examine the cost sensitivity of forest biomass harvesting scenarios to targeted policies designed to stimulate wildfire hazardous fuel reduction projects. The policies selected represent actual policies enacted by federal and state governments to provide incentive to biomass utilization and are aimed at addressing particular challenges in the production lifecycle of trees to final product. Policies were modeled to compare financial impacts on a per-acre project basis for three scenarios of harvest intensity in southwestern ponderosa pine stands classified as being at high risk of wildfire. This allowed for identification of key cost nodes and how particular policies might better allocate limited resources. Effects of limiting the size of trees harvested and access to biomass markets were also modeled. This analysis showed that the co-location of processing facilities that results in shorter distances traveled is the single most important strategy for reducing costs for all three scenarios modeled. Per acre subsidies and certified product premiums were the next highest ranked in providing economic incentive, followed by production tax credits and cost-share programs. Fuel surcharge waivers and transport tax credits provided the least gains.
A COMPARATIVE SURVEY ON NLP/U METHODOLOGIES FOR PROCESSING MULTI-DOCUMENTS

This paper provides a comparative survey of natural language understanding (NLU) methodologies used for processing multiple documents. The scope of these methodologies is to generate a text output ...
A Genetic Algorithm for the Multiple-Choice Integer Program

We present a genetic algorithm for the multiple-choice integer program that finds an optimal solution with probability one though it is typically used as a heuristic. General constraints are relaxed by a nonlinear penalty function for which the corresponding dual problem has weak and strong duality. The relaxed problem is attacked by a genetic algorithm with solution representation special to the multiple-choice structure. Nontraditional reproduction, crossover and mutation operations are employed. Extensive computational tests for dual degenerate problem instances show that suboptimal solutions can be obtained with the genetic algorithm within running times that are shorter than those of the OSL optimization routine.
Silicon Nanowire Tunnel FETs: Low-Temperature Operation and Influence of High- $k$ Gate Dielectric

In this paper, we demonstrate p-channel tunnel FETs based on silicon nanowires grown with an in situ p-i-n doping profile. The tunnel FETs were fabricated with three different gate dielectrics, SiO2, Al2O3, and HfO2, and show a performance enhancement when using high-k dielectric materials. The best performance is achieved for the devices using HfO2 as the gate dielectric, which reach an Ion of 0.1 μA/μm (VDS = -0.5 V, VGS = -2 V), combined with an average inverse subthreshold slope (SS) of ~ 120 mV/dec and an Ion/Ioff ratio of around 106. For the tunnel FETs with Al2O3 as the gate dielectric, different annealing steps were evaluated, and an activation anneal at only 700°C was found to yield the best results. Furthermore, we also investigated the temperature behavior of the tunnel FETs. Ideal tunnel FET behavior was observed for devices having ohmic Ni/Au contacts, and we demonstrate the invariance of both the SS and on-current with temperature, as expected for true tunnel FETs.
A low-cost, digitally-controlled charger for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles

In this paper, a low-cost onboard charger for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) is presented and verified experimentally. The idea is to utilize the already available main traction and auxiliary motors and associated power electronics systems of an HEV to construct the charger circuit instead of building a standalone charger. Compared to the latter, it enables significant cost, weight, and volume reductions. The topology was verified by modeling and experimental results on a 14 kW prototype.
Joint congestion control and media access control design for ad hoc wireless networks

We present a model for the joint design of congestion control and media access control (MAC) for ad hoc wireless networks. Using contention graph and contention matrix, we formulate resource allocation in the network as a utility maximization problem with constraints that arise from contention for channel access. We present two algorithms that are not only distributed spatially, but more interestingly, they decompose vertically into two protocol layers where TCP and MAC jointly solve the system problem. The first is a primal algorithm where the MAC layer at the links generates congestion (contention) prices based on local aggregate source rates, and TCP sources adjust their rates based on the aggregate prices in their paths. The second is a dual subgradient algorithm where the MAC sub-algorithm is implemented through scheduling link-layer flows according to the congestion prices of the links. Global convergence properties of these algorithms are proved. This is a preliminary step towards a systematic approach to jointly design TCP congestion control algorithms and MAC algorithms, not only to improve performance, but more importantly, to make their interaction more transparent.
Statistical profile estimation in database systems

A statistical profile summarizes the instances of a database. It describes aspects such as the number of tuples, the number of values, the distribution of values, the correlation between value sets, and the distribution of tuples among secondary storage units. Estimation of database profiles is critical in the problems of query optimization, physical database design, and database performance prediction. This paper describes a model of a database of profile, relates this model to estimating the cost of database operations, and surveys methods of estimating profiles. The operators and objects in the model include build profile, estimate profile, and update profile. The estimate operator is classified by the relational algebra operator (select, project, join), the property to be estimated (cardinality, distribution of values, and other parameters), and the underlying method (parametric, nonparametric, and ad-hoc). The accuracy, overhead, and assumptions of methods are discussed in detail. Relevant research in both the database and the statistics disciplines is incorporated in the detailed discussion.
Evaluation of a near-infrared reflectance spectrometer as a granulation sensor for first-break ground wheat : Studies with six wheat classes

ABSTRACT In flour milling, a granulation sensor for ground wheat is needed for automatic control of a roller mill's roll gap. A near-infrared (NIR) reflectance spectrometer was evaluated as a potential granulation sensor of first-break ground wheat using offline methods. Sixty wheat samples, ground independently, representing six classes and five roller mill gaps, were each used for calibration and validation sets. Partial least squares regression was used to develop the models with cumulative mass of size fraction as the reference value. Combinations of four data pretreatments (log (1/R), baseline correction, unit area normalization, and derivatives) and three wavelength regions (700–1,500, 800–1,600, and 600–1,700 nm) were evaluated. Unit area normalization combined with baseline correction or second derivative yielded models that predicted well each size fraction of first-break ground wheat. Standard errors of performance of 4.07, 1.75, 1.03, and 1.40 and r2 of 0.93, 0.90, 0.88, and 0.38 for the >1,041...
Designing soft-edge flip-flop-based linear pipelines operating in multiple supply voltage regimes ☆

Soft-edge flip-flop (SEFF) based pipelines can improve the performance and energy efficiency of circuits operating in the super-threshold (supply voltage) regime by enabling the opportunistic time borrowing. The application of this technique to the near-threshold regime of operation, however, faces a significant challenge due to large circuit parameter variations that result from manufacturing process imperfections. In particular, delay lines in SEFFs have to be over-designed to provide larger transparency windows to overcome the variation in path delays, which causes them to consume more power. To address this issue, this paper presents a novel way of designing delay lines in SEFFs to have a large enough transparency window size and low power consumption. Two types of linear pipeline design problems using the SEFFs are formulated and solved: (1) designing energy-delay optimal pipelines for the general usage that requires SEFFs to operate in both the near-threshold and super-threshold regimes, and (2) designing minimum energy consumed pipelines for particular use case with a minimum operating frequency constraint. Design methods are presented to derive requisite pipeline design parameters (i.e., depth and sizing of delay lines in SEFFs) and operating conditions (i.e., supply voltage and operating frequency of the design) in presence of process-induced variations. HSPICE simulation results using ISCAS benchmarks demonstrate the efficacy of the presented design methods.
Molecular Characteristics of Pectins from Enzyme-Treated Apple Juices

The objective is to develop a high performance size exclusion chromatography method to study the molecular weight distribution characteristics of pectic fractions isolated from enzyme-treated apple juices
Multiple-Reheat Brayton Cycles for Nuclear Power Conversion with Molten Coolants

AbstractGas-turbine power conversion systems can have lower capital costs than comparable steam-turbine systems due to their higher power density. The recent commercialization of magnetic bearing systems for large turbomachinery now makes direct recuperated Brayton cycles the preferred power conversion choice for gas-cooled reactors. This paper presents a multiple-reheat closed gas cycle optimized to use energy input from liquid-metal or molten-salt coolants with temperatures as low as 550 to 650°C. By utilizing reheat, these molten coolant gas cycles (MCGCs) have the potential for substantially higher thermal efficiency than current gas-cooled reactors if used with comparable turbine inlet temperatures. The MCGC system also eliminates the need for steam generators, which removes the potential for chemical reactions between the molten coolant and steam, and greatly simplifies the control of tritium for fusion energy systems.
The Use of Curved Elements in the Finite Element Approximation of Thin Plates by High Order p and hp Methods

In this article we focus on the approximation of the Reissner---Mindlin (R---M) plate model by high-order p and hp versions of the Finite Element Method (FEM), in the case when the mesh includes curved elements; this is of particular interest when plates with smooth boundary are considered. Our main goal is to verify that an appropriately defined Mixed Interpolated Tensorial Components (MITC) FEM performs well, in the presence of curved elements, when the energy norm is used as an error measure, as well as when quantities of engineering interest are computed. Comments on the performance of the standard FEM formulation are also made
Gender and Inequality in the Global Labor Force

▪ Abstract This review examines the convergence of recent anthropological interests in gender, labor, and globalization. Attention to gender and gender inequality offers a productive strategy for the analysis of globalizing processes and their local variations and contestations. Contemporary ethnographic research explores multiple dimensions of labor and gender inequalities in the global economy: gendered patterns of labor recruitment and discipline, the transnational mobility and commodification of reproductive labor, and the gendered effects of international structural adjustment programs, among others. New and continuing research explores the diverse meanings and practices that produce a gendered global labor force, incorporating the perspectives of men and women, masculinities and femininities, and examines how these processes of gender and labor inequality articulate with other structures of subordination (such as ethnicity and nationality) to shape lived experiences of work and livelihood, exploitat...
VARIATION IN ALCOHOL DEHYDROGENASE ACTIVITY AND FLOOD TOLERANCE IN WHITE CLOVER, TRIFOLIUM REPENS.

Flooding results in induction of anaerobic metabolism in many higher plants. As an important component of anaerobic energy production, alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity increases markedly in response to flooding in white clover, Trifolium repens. Significant inter- individual variation in flood-induced ADH activity exists in natural populations of T. repens. The genetic basis of this variation was analyzed by offspring-midparent regression of data from 75 greenhouse reared families; the estimated heritability of flood-induced ADH activity was 0.55 (?0.13). Genetic variation in flood-induced ADH activity has pronounced effects on physiological response and flood tolerance in this species. ADH activity is positively correlated with the rate of ethanol production, indicating that observed in vitro activity differences are manifested in in vivo physiological function. T. repens plants with higher ADH activities during flooding have greater flood tolerance (measured as growth rate when flooded/unflooded growth rate). Variation in ADH activity during flooding accounts for more than 79% of the variance in flood tolerance. On the basis of a limited field survey of populations occupying three sites differing in exposure to flooding conditions, individuals from site C, the most frequently flooded site, expressed significantly higher average ADH activity when flooded than individuals from site A, a site with no history of flooding. Since ADH activity levels are not correlated with electrophoretic mobility variation in T. repens, this work supports previous suggestions that regulatory variation in enzyme activity may play a central role in biochemical adaptations to environmental stress.