cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transfer pricing for aligning divisional and corporate decisions

Abstract Discussions about transfer pricing normally presume the firm's objective is to maximize profit while making the best use of existing capacity. This article differs by exploring the impact of transfer pricing on capital budget decisions. In decentralized firms, decision authority for investment is assigned to division managers whose capital budgets include revenues from internal transfers. When a selling division is under capacity, economic theory recommends a transfer price based on differential cost. Here the seller generates sufficient revenues to recoup operating costs, but not enough to recover capital costs. Consequently, division managers will reject some investments that otherwise would have increased corporate shareholder value. Market-based transfer pricing overcomes this conflict by allocating savings on inter-company transactions to the selling division. However, market transfer pricing may result in shortfalls to corporate profit. Nonetheless, we argue in favor of the use of transfer pricing on the presumption that long-term value creation takes precedence over short-term profit.
Scale-up of two-phase flow in heterogeneous porous media

Abstract The objective of this work is to study the scale-up of multiphase flow properties obtained from core-scale experiments to the grid-scale required for typical field simulations of oil recovery. Typical naturally-occurring porous media represented by field simulation grid-blocks are internally heterogeneous. Heterogeneity is modeled here as a correlated random field parameterized in terms of its variance and two-point variogram. Variogram models of both finite (spherical) and infinite (fractal) correlation length are included as special cases. Local core-scale porosity, permeability, capillary pressure function, relative permeability functions, and initial water saturation are assumed to be correlated. Capillary pressure and relative permeability hysteresis are modeled at the core-scale. Water injection is simulated and effective flow properties (not pseudo-functions) and flow equations are calculated. Conditions under which the traditional relative permeability formulation is valid are identified. For strongly water-wet media and small variance in permeability, flow can be described by an effective relative permeability. In water-wet grid-blocks of large permeability variance and finite correlation length, effective relative permeabilities can describe the average front movements, but a stochastic term is needed to describe the detailed fluctuations. In fractal media, effective relative permeabilities cannot describe even the average front movements.
Splenic sequestration and multiorgan failure as the presenting manifestation of hemoglobin SC disease

Acute splenic sequestration, a well recognized complication of the various sickle cell syndromes, is characterized by increasing splenomegaly and a sudden fall in hemoglobin concentration. In this article, the authors describe a 21-year-old woman with previously undiagnosed hemoglobin SC disease whose initial presentation was that of acute, severe splenic sequestration. Despite the severity of her illness, prompt diagnosis and appropriate therapy led to a complete recovery. The splenic sequestration in this case was apparently exacerbated by a recent hepatitis B infection. To date, this presentation of hemoglobin SC disease has not been described in the medical literature.
A functional magnetic resonance imaging predictor of treatment response to venlafaxine in generalized anxiety disorder.

Background Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) holds promise as a noninvasive means of identifying neural responses that can be used to predict treatment response before beginning a drug trial. Imaging paradigms employing facial expressions as presented stimuli have been shown to activate the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Here, we sought to determine whether pretreatment amygdala and rostral ACC (rACC) reactivity to facial expressions could predict treatment outcomes in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Methods Fifteen subjects (12 female subjects) with GAD participated in an open-label venlafaxine treatment trial. Functional magnetic resonance imaging responses to facial expressions of emotion collected before subjects began treatment were compared with changes in anxiety following 8 weeks of venlafaxine administration. In addition, the magnitude of fMRI responses of subjects with GAD were compared with that of 15 control subjects (12 female subjects) who did not have GAD and did not receive venlafaxine treatment. Results The magnitude of treatment response was predicted by greater pretreatment reactivity to fearful faces in rACC and lesser reactivity in the amygdala. These individual differences in pretreatment rACC and amygdala reactivity within the GAD group were observed despite the fact that 1) the overall magnitude of pretreatment rACC and amygdala reactivity did not differ between subjects with GAD and control subjects and 2) there was no main effect of treatment on rACC-amygdala reactivity in the GAD group. Conclusions These findings show that this pattern of rACC-amygdala responsivity could prove useful as a predictor of venlafaxine treatment response in patients with GAD.
Interpopulation quality in gypsy moths with implications for success of two pupal parasitoids: Brachymeria intermedia (Nees) and Coccygomimus turionellae (L.).

. 1 Gypsy moth egg masses were collected from innocuous, release and outbreak populations and reared in the laboratory on synthetic diet under identical conditions. 2 Outbreak population gypsy moths hatched sooner, were smaller and less fecund than innocuous or release gypsy moths, but had a higher concentration of total carbohydrates in their haemolymph. 3 Pupae from each population source were submitted to parasitization by two pupal parasitoids. Emerging B.intermedia, an established parasitoid of the gypsy moth associated with outbreak populations, were largest on outbreak source gypsy moths. C. turionellae, not a usual parasitoid of the gypsy moth, were largest when emerging from innocuous or release population gypsy moths. Implications for population dynamics of the gypsy moth are discussed.
A new process for the fabrication of miniature Fabry Perot spectrometers

Abstract In this paper, we discuss the use of micromachining techniques and silicon microfabrication technology to create miniature, low cost replacements for conventional optical spectrometers. The unique aspect of our approach is that the spectrometer is created using two separate processes involving conventional optical coating technology and surface micromachining. Sub-components of the spectrometer are then assembled to create the final device. This method provides optimum performance of the micromachined actuators and semi-transparent mirrors.
An investigation on back-end for speaker recognition in multi-session enrollment

This study explores various back-end classifiers for robust speaker recognition in multi-session enrollment, with emphasis on optimal utilization and organization of speaker information present in the development data. Our objective is to construct a highly discriminative back-end framework by fusing several back-ends on an i-vector system framework. It is demonstrated that, by using different information/data configuration and modeling schemes, performance of the fused system can be significantly improved compared to an individual system using a single front-end and back-end. Averaged across both genders, we obtain a relative improvement in EER and minDCF by 56.5% and 49.4%, respectively. Consistent performance gains obtained using the proposed strategy validates its effectiveness. This system is part of the CRSS' NIST SRE 2012 submission system.
The "wandering" spleen

A 15-year-old girl presented with 7 days of intermittent lower abdominal pain. Contrast-enhanced CT demonstrated an enlarged “wandering” spleen (asterisk) within the pelvis (Fig. 1). The splenic vascular pedicle was elongated and whorled, suggesting torsion (Fig. 2). Imaging findings were confirmed at laparoscopy, and splenic detorsion and splenopexy were performed. Excessive splenic mobility and resultant ectopia are caused by abnormal peritoneal fixation, with the splenogastric and splenorenal ligaments being either absent or lax [1, 2]. While splenic shadow absence may suggest the
Radiolabeling with technetium-99m to study high-capacity and low-capacity biochemical systems.

After a brief review of the history of the development of technetium-99m-labeled radiopharmaceuticals, the use of technetium chelates in high-capacity systems is discussed. The latter are used in the study of five organ systems, the kidneys, liver, bone, brain, and heart. The chemical characterization of99mTc complexes is also reviewed, followed by discussion of the various approaches to the labeling of proteins with direct labeling, the preformed chelate approach, and the antibody chelator conjugate approach. Thereafter, the labeling of biochemicals with99mTc for use with easily saturated sites, e.g., receptors and enzymes, is considered. Finally, attention is given to factors that affect the preparation of high specific activity, high affinity99mTc-labeled biochemicals.
Bisphenol diglycidyl ethers and bisphenol A and their hydrolysis in drinking water.

Epoxy coatings are commonly used to protect the interior (and exterior) surfaces of water mains and storage tanks and can be used on the interior surfaces of water pipes in homes, hospitals, hotels, and other buildings. Common major components of epoxies include bisphenols, such as bisphenol A (BPA) or bisphenol F (BPF), and their reactive prepolymers, bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) and bisphenol F diglycidyl ether (BFDGE), respectively. There currently are health concerns about the safety of BPA and BPF due to known estrogenic effects. Determination of key bisphenol leachates, development of a hydrolysis model, and identification of stable hydrolysis products will aid in assessment of human bisphenol exposure through ingestion of drinking water. Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) was used for quantitation of key analytes, and a pseudo-first order kinetic approach was used for modeling. In fill-and-dump studies on epoxy-coated pipe specimens, BADGE and a BPA-like compound were identified as leachates. The BADGE hydrolysis model predicts BADGE half-lives at pH 7 and 15, 25, 35, and 40 °C to be 11, 4.6, 2.0, and 1.4 days respectively; the BFDGE half-life was 5 days at pH 7 and 25 °C. The two identified BADGE hydrolysis products are BADGE-H2O and BADGE 2H2O, with BADGE 2H2O being the final end product under the conditions studied.
Finite state Markov decision models with average reward criteria

Abstract This paper deals with a discrete time Markov decision model with a finite state space, arbitrary action space, and bounded reward function under the average reward criteria. We consider four average reward criteria and prove the existence of persistently nearly optimal strategies in various classes of strategies for models with complete state information. We show that such strategies exist in any class of strategies satisfying the following condition: along any trajectory at different epochs the controller knows different information about the past. Though neither optimal nor stationary nearly optimal strategies may exist, we show that for some nonempty set of states the described nearly optimal strategies may be chosen either stationary or optimal.
Sorption and transport of inert gases in PVF2/PMMA blends

Sorption and transport of several inert gases (He, Ar, N2, and CH4) in miscible blends of PMMA and PVF2 are reported as a function of pressure at 35°C. For each gas, the permeabilities are independent of pressure for all blend compositions. Sorption isotherms are linear for rubbery compositions (PVF2-rich) and nonlinear for glassy compositions (PMMA-rich) as expected. In contrast to CO2, these gases do not plasticize any of these materials. The data are analyzed using appropriate models for sorption and transport, and the parameters are correlated in terms of blend composition and molecular characteristics of the gases. Effects of crystallinity are discussed. Sorption behavior is compared with poly(methyl acrylate) and poly(vinyl acetate).
Comparison of Fixation Methods After Anteromedialization Osteotomy of the Tibial Tubercle for Patellar Instability

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical strength of two 4.5-mm screws and three 3.5-mm screws for fixation of the tibial tubercle after anteromedialization osteotomy. Methods Anteromedialization of the tibial tubercle was performed on 5 pairs of fresh-frozen cadaveric lower extremities. One leg from each pair was randomized to fixation with two 4.5-mm screws and the contralateral leg to fixation with three 3.5-mm screws. Each specimen was loaded cyclically to simulate an active straight-leg raise and then to failure while displacement of the tubercle fragment was recorded. Results There was no difference in mean tubercle fragment displacement under cyclic loading at any cycle number ( P > .352). Maximum failure load for osteotomies secured with two 4.5-mm screws was 1,459 ± 540 N, and for three 3.5-mm screws it was 1,360 ± 707 N. This was not a statistically significant difference ( P = .723). Tubercle migration of 7 mm was chosen as clinical failure. At this amount of displacement, mean load was 1,085 ± 398 N and 764 ± 313 N in the 4.5-mm and 3.5-mm groups, respectively, which was also not significantly different ( P = .146). Conclusions Both 2 × 4.5-mm and 3 × 3.5-mm screw constructs after tibial tubercle anteromedialization are equally capable of withstanding physiologic forces like those encountered during an active straight-leg raise and have similar failure strength. Clinical Relevance Although both configurations are comparable, the use of the smaller 3.5-mm screws may reduce the need for hardware removal related to prominence and soft tissue irritation.
Birthdate Psychology: A Look at Some New Data

Summary The Flexibility and Femininity scales of the California Personality Inventory (CPI) were administered to five male and five female volunteers born under each of the 12 sun signs of the Zodiac. The scores for each scale were subjected to a 2 (sex) by 12 (sun sign) independent groups ANOVA in an attempt to confirm a finding by Pellegrini that a strong association exists between the Femininity score on this inventory and sun sign of birthdate. The observation was not confirmed; the F ratio for the main effect of sun sign was well short of significance.
THE IMPORTANCE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP FOR WEALTH CONCENTRATION AND MOBILITY

The paper conducts an empirical analysis of the importance of entrepreneurship for wealth concentration and mobility using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. The data shows a marked concentration of wealth in the hands of entrepreneurs which is not merely a consequence of their higher incomes. The higher saving rates among entrepreneurs is one of the possible explanations for their higher asset holdings and this hypothesis is supported by the statistical tests conducted in the paper. The data also shows that entrepreneurs experience greater upward mobility in that they have a greater probability of moving to higher wealth classes, and this is not only a consequence of their higher incomes.
Short-Term Positive and Negative Consequences of Sex Based on Daily Reports Among College Students

Because sexual behavior may be associated with a broader range of outcomes than physical consequences like sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy, it is important to understand consequences of sex that may influence mental and social well-being in emerging adulthood. This article describes the short-term intrapersonal and interpersonal consequences reported by college students on days they engage in vaginal sex and what factors predict experiencing particular consequences. Data are from first-year college students who reported vaginal sex on at least one of 28 sampled days (mean age = 18.5 years; 53% female; 30% Hispanic/Latino [HL]; of non-HL participants, 30% were African American, 22% were Asian American, 35% were European American, and 12% were multiracial; N = 209 people and N = 679 person days). Participants reported positive consequences more frequently than negative consequences. Non-use of contraception and sex with a non-dating partner were associated with greater odds of reporting negative consequences. These findings have implications for messages about casual sex and use of contraception in sex education and sexual health programming.
Impact of increased TOVS signal on the NMC global spectral model - A tropical-plume case study

Temperature and moisture signals are extracted from operationally available TOVS channel radiances for a tropical plume that developed over the North Pacific in January 1989, and are inserted into the NMC's operational medium-range forecast model. Several 48-h forecasts are made to test the impact of the additional information. It is shown, at least within a single tropical plume event, that there is still unutilized information within operational TOVS satellite observations. This information resides in the moisture channels and within small-amplitude, but horiontally coherent, thermal features. Perturbed upper-tropospheric relative humidity patterns are smoother and more consistent with satellite imagery than is the historical forecast.
The function of Geraldine in Christabel: A critical perspective and interpretation

(1980). The function of Geraldine in Christabel: A critical perspective and interpretation. English Studies: Vol. 61, No. 2, pp. 130-141.
Student Perceptions of Computer Viruses: 1991 versus 1993.

Abstract Computer viruses—practically unheard of 10 years ago—are a real and common threat to almost every computer installation today. Information systems staff as well as nontechnical users must take precautions to prevent the loss of data and programs that viruses can cause. Education about viruses is vital to their detection and prevention. Results of a comparison between two groups of students—one group surveyed in 1991 and the other in 1993—indicate that students were more aware of viruses and were more active in virus detection and prevention in 1993 than they were 2 years earlier. Findings also indicate that educators are taking steps to ensure this awareness and to facilitate precautionary measures.
Effect of chromosomal breaks induced by X-irradiation on the number of mesosomes and the cytoplasmic organization of Streptococcus faecalis

Abstract A model which explains mesosome formation via a contraction of the cytoplasm and nucleoid when bacteria are physiologically disturbed was tested by: (1) X-irradiation of unfixed cells of Streptococcus faecalis to produce chromosomal breaks and to remove DNA attached to the cell membrane; (2) subsequent determination of the number of irradiated cells in which mesosomes (using electron microscopy) and central density changes (using phase-contrast microscopy) could be visualized after fixative was added. Results obtained by exposure of cells to doses up to 1100 krads before fixation indicated that: (1) the number of cells with central mesosomes was reduced proportional to the decrease in the molecular weight of the DNA due to double-strand breaks: (2) the number of cells with total (central plus peripheral) mesosomes and the number of cells with peripheral mesosomes were both reduced proportional to the removal of DNA attached to the cell membrane (M band); (3) the nucleoid became more diffusely organized. Exposure of cells to doses greater than 1100 krads before fixation resulted in: (1) an increase in the number of cells with central and peripheral mesosomes (compared to cells exposed to lower dosages); (2) a return to the centralized, dense nucleoid seen in unirradiated cells. These results suggest that mesosomes are formed when localized sites on the cell membrane are pulled from close contact with the cell wall into the cytoplasm by the action of a cross-linking fixative via the aggregation of intracytoplasmic components such as DNA. This model considers the attachment of DNA and/or other cytoplasmic components to the membrane as an intrinsic part of its mechanism. The formation of central and peripheral mesosomes in unirradiated and X-irradiated cells are contrasted.
Use of Aeroponic Chambers and Grafting to Study Partial Resistance to Fusarium solani f. sp. glycines in Soybean

ABSTRACT Several plant introductions (PIs) and cultivars have been classified as partially resistant (PR) to sudden death syndrome. However, little is known about the nature of resistance to this d...
Visible wavelength Fabry-Perot reflection modulator using indirect-gap AlGaAs/AlAs

A Fabry-Perot reflection modulator with integrated quarterwave mirrors using indirect bandgap AlGaAs/AlAs quantum wells as the cavity material is reported. A total reflectivity change of 30% and insertion loss of 2.3 dB at a wavelength of 609 nm are achieved.
The preparation and thermal and mechanical properties of new titanium rich metallic glasses

Abstract The compositions of Ti-rich alloys in the TiNiSi system which form a metallic glass upon rapid liquid quenching have been identified. Binary glasses were obtained only over narrow composition ranges of 30–40 at.% Ni and ∼20 at.% Si; glass formation occurs over a much wider section of the ternary system, and selected ternary alloys, e.g. Ti0.60Ni0.30Si0.10, form glasses more readily and were melt-spun to a glass. Related glasses, e.g. TiNiB and TiFeSi alloys, were also made. The glass forming ability of the alloys has been related to relatively low melting points, the size differences of the components and the presence of complex intermediate phases. The crystallization temperatures Tc and Vickers diamond pyramid hardnesses H of selected alloys were determined; H ranged from 540 to 1070 kg/mm2 and Tc ranged from 700 to over 1000 K for a heating rate of 80 K/min. Values for both quantities increase when either Ti or Ni is replaced by Si or when Ti is replaced by Ni. While H changes linearly with Tc for a section at 10 at.% Si, no universally valid relation between H and Tc was observed. Specific strength values, UTS/ρ, have been estimated from hardness data and may range up to 59 × 105cm.
IMC based wastegate control using a first order model for turbocharged gasoline engine

The basis of constructing an Internal Model Controller (IMC) are the plant model and its inversion. The construction of an appropriate invertible plant model is one of the challenges in implementation of an IMC on a nonlinear system. In this work we study the control of a turbocharged gasoline engine using a wastegate actuator. The turbocharged engine is typically represented using a fourth or higher order model. A first order representation of this system (or single state) is obtained via singular perturbation. The resulting model is invertible, and is cast into the standard structure of IMC. We also include the throttle actuator into consideration during the reduced order model development. The IMC is implemented on a full order nonlinear model for evaluation and the performance is compared to a PI controller with similar feed-forward action.
Classification of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) imaged on high-resolution CT using contrast enhancement and three-dimensional quantitative image features

Spiral CT images were obtained of 21 SPN patients before and after the injection of an intravenous contrast agent. On pre- and post-injection images, nodules were isolated using a semi- automated contouring procedure; the resulting contours, as well as their internal pixels, were combined to form regions of interest (ROIs). These ROIs were then used to measure each nodule's CT attenuation, texture, volume and shape. Peak enhancement was calculated as the maximum difference between average gray levels in central areas of post-contrast and pre- contrast images for each nodule. Stepwise feature selection chose the best subset of discriminating measurements. A linear classifier was then trained and tested using chosen features. Using a commonly applied feature, peak enhancement, by itself, all malignant cases were classified correctly, but 6/12 benign cases were misclassified. Using peak contrast enhancement, a three-dimensional shape measure and two texture measures, 20/21 cases (95.2%) were classified correctly by resubstitution, and 17/21 (81.0%) by jackknifing. The combination of contrast enhancement, three dimensional shape features and texture features holds promise for accurate classification of solitary pulmonary nodules imaged on CT.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Computer Simulation of Babesia bovis (Babes) and B. bigemina (Smith & Kilborne) Transmission by Boophilus Cattle Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae)

A computer model was developed to simulate the processes involved in transmission of the cattle fever parasites Babesia bovis (Babes) and Babesia bigemina (Smith & Kilborne) between cattle and Boophilus ticks. The model of Babesia transmission was combined with a dynamic life history model for population dynamics of the tick vectors, Boophilus microplus (Canestrini) and B. annulatus (Say). Epidemiological parameters and relationships in the model include the reduction in fecundity of infected ticks, rate of transovarial transmission, effect of cattle type and inoculation rate on infectivity of cattle, variation of infected cattle recovery rate with age of infection, inoculation rate, and species of parasite. Some parameters in the model were fitted by iterative simulations to produce realistic rates of Babesia infection in larval ticks. Comparisons of simulated and reported epidemiological data from one location in Australia indicated a reasonable level of validity for the model. Theoretical tick density thresholds for maintenance of Babesia in cattle and for inoculation of greater than or equal to 99.5% calves were determined by iterative simulations at 10 locations with B. microplus and six locations with B. annulatus. The model and transmission thresholds can serve as the basis for further simulation studies on strategies for control or eradication of babesiosis.
Visuomotor integration in split-brain monkeys with other cerebral lesions.

Abstract Split-brain monkeys underwent either deep hemispheric disconnection or unilateral cortical ablations in an attempt to determine the neural mechanisms underlying ipsilateral eye-hand coordination. The results indicate that the responding hand is not in any direct way controlled by visual processes of the ipsilateral hemisphere. Instead, it is suggested that the target information crosses over to the hemisphere in major control of the responding arm through proprioceptive feedback generated during eye, head and neck movements initiated by the hemisphere viewing the target.
Linearization Technique for Probabilistic Riser Frequency Domain Analysis

This paper presents a rigorous derivation of equations for the minimization of the mean-squared error and defines the describing function for different input components. The technique has a direct application to analyze the dynamic response of marine risers. The describing function method will be used to determine the linearization coefficients for the nonlinear drag effects, taking into account a steady current and the random sea waves. The method will have significant impact on other problems such as fixed offshore platforms and tension leg platforms.
Human anti-CXCR4 antibodies undergo VH replacement, exhibit functional V-region sulfation, and define CXCR4 antigenic heterogeneity.

The chemokine receptor CXCR4 and its ligand stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1/CXCL12) are essential for many biological processes and various pathological conditions. However, the relationship between CXCR4 antigenic structure and SDF-1-mediated biological responses is poorly understood. In this report, a panel of human anti-CXCR4 Abs were isolated and used to explore CXCR4 antigenic heterogeneity and function. Multiple fixed CXCR4 antigenic isoforms were detected on the surface of hemopoietic cells. Epitope mapping studies demonstrated the complex nature of the surface-exposed CXCR4 epitopes. Ab-mediated inhibition of chemotaxis correlated strongly with binding affinity, epitope recognition, as well as the level of CXCR4 isoform expression. In addition, detailed genetic analyses of these Abs showed evidence of V H replacement. Importantly, structural and biochemical studies demonstrated tyrosine sulfation in novel regions of the V genes that contributed bidirectionally to the binding activity of the Abs. These data provide the first evidence that functional tyrosine sulfation occurs in self-reactive Abs and suggest a potential new mechanism that may contribute to the pathogenesis of Ab-mediated autoimmune disease. These Abs also provide valuable tools to explore the selective in vivo targeting of CXCR4 isoforms that may be preferentially expressed in certain disease states and involved in steady-state CXCR4-SDF-1 homeostasis.
Density Functional Theory Calculations of the Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Propane on the (010) Surface of V2O5

Density functional theory and the calculations of oxygen nucleophilicity have been applied to an analysis of the oxidative dehydrogenation (ODH) of propane on the (010) surface of V2O5. These calculations show that the energetically preferred initial step is the dissociative adsorption of propane to form i-propoxide and hydroxyl species. Two VO groups [O(1)] bonded by a V−O−V bridge are required. One of the vanadyl groups attacks the β-C atom of propane and is converted to a V−OCH2(CH3)2 species, whereas the other vanadyl group is converted into a V−OH group. The activation barrier for this process is 9.4 kcal/mol. Dissociative adsorption to form an n-propoxide can also occur, but the activation barrier for this process is 14.5 kcal/mol. Propene and water are formed via a concerted process in which an H atom of one of the methyl groups of i-propoxide reacts with an O(3)H group. Exploration of alternative pathways for this step reveals that neither O(1, 2, 3), O(1)H, nor O(2)H are sufficiently reactive. Th...
SCREW CONFIGURATION EFFECTS ON RESIDENCE TIME DISTRIBUTION AND MIXING IN TWIN‐SCREW EXTRUDERS DURING EXTRUSION OF RICE FLOUR

Screw configuration effects on residence time distribution and mixing were investigated during twin-screw extrusion of rice flour. The type, length, and position of mixing elements, and spacing between two elements significantly affected residence time distribution and mixing. Mean residence time (t mean ) and extent of mixing were lower for screw profiles with KB than those with RSE, A systematic increase in t mean was observed as the mixing elements were moved farther away from the die, with longer elements, and with increased spacing between two elements.
Neocytolysis: physiological down-regulator of red-cell mass

It is usually considered that red-cell mass is controlled by erythropoietin-driven bone marrow red-cell production, and no physiological mechanisms can shorten survival of circulating red cells. In adapting to acute plethora in microgravity, astronauts' red-cell mass falls too rapidly to be explained by diminished red-cell production. Ferrokinetics show no early decline in erythropolesis, but red cells radiolabelled 12 days before launch survive normally. Selective destruction of the youngest circulating red cells-a process we call neocytolysis-is the only plausible explanation. A fall in erythropoietin below a threshold is likely to initiate neocytolysis, probably by influencing surface-adhesion molecules. Recognition of neocytolysis will require re-examination of the pathophysiology and treatment of several blood disorders, including the anaemia of renal disease.
Multi-Flexible-Body Simulations Using Interpolating Splines in a Divide-and-Conquer Scheme

A new method for modeling multi-flexible-body systems is presented that incorporates interpolating splines in a divide-and-conquer scheme. This algorithm uses the floating frame of reference formulation and piece-wise interpolation spline functions to construct and solve the non-linear equations of motion of the multi-flexible-body systems undergoing large rotations and translations. We compare the new algorithm with the flexible divide-and-conquer algorithm (FDCA) that uses the assumed modes method and may resort to sub-structuring in many cases [1]. We demonstrate, through numerical examples, that in such cases the interpolating spline-based approach is comparable in accuracy and superior in efficiency to the FDCA. The algorithm retains the theoretical logarithmic complexity inherent to the divide-and-conquer algorithm when implemented in parallel.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Resource allocation using ASK, FSK and PSK modulation techniques with varying M

Communicating effectively over a large distance has always been the quest of engineers and scientists and with the transition of modern day systems from analog to digital, has further complicated the scenario. Several modulation techniques like the AM and FM, have been tried and tested in the past century to get the desired analog signal at the receiver. But with the introduction of digital systems we find ourselves in the time of ever increasing demand for high data rates and optimum bandwidth usage. This has forced us to look for better modulation techniques with higher immunity to environmental noise and channel distortion. But implementation of these digital modulation schemes like the Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK), Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) and Phase Shift Keying (PSK) comes with a tradeoff. There is a compromise that needs to be made between the available bandwidth and the number of bits/symbol that can be sent over the line, which in turn limits the maximum data rate on the link. Thus choice of digital modulation schemes is absolutely critical, especially in an environment like the satellite uplink - downlink where resources are very limited and time slots are auctioned at very high rates. The intent of the paper will be to show the effect of varying M, when applied to the modulation schemes, which can be then selected to achieve the best performance in an outer space communication link. Having this knowledge of the resources needed to maintain an acceptable Bit Error Rate (BER), it will be possible to change the modulation scheme during sudden environmental changes, like rainfall, stand storms and tornadoes to sustain the communication link.
Early and midterm outcome of complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD) in a single institution

Background Surgical repair of complete atrioventricular septal defect is a well established procedure performed in young children. We sought to determine the rate of survival, reoperation and occurrence of Left Atrioventricular Valve Regurgitation (LAVVR).
Substitutes with Significance: Increasing the Impact of Substitute Teachers in Special Education:

The impact of substitute teachers on student learning, especially on children with disabilities, is often overlooked. Special education substitute teachers must have the appropriate preparation and continuing professional development to be effective professionals. This article suggests ways to develop effective substitute teacher programs. The suggestions are framed around the Standards for Staff Development created by the National Staff Development Council. Substitute training and support systems need to address appropriate context, process, and content. Detailed recommendations are presented.
DECIPHER, a search-based approach to chimera identification for 16S rRNA sequences

ABSTRACT DECIPHER is a new method for finding 16S rRNA chimeric sequences by the use of a search-based approach. The method is based upon detecting short fragments that are uncommon in the phylogenetic group where a query sequence is classified but frequently found in another phylogenetic group. The algorithm was calibrated for full sequences (fs_DECIPHER) and short sequences (ss_DECIPHER) and benchmarked against WigeoN (Pintail), ChimeraSlayer, and Uchime using artificially generated chimeras. Overall, ss_DECIPHER and Uchime provided the highest chimera detection for sequences 100 to 600 nucleotides long (79% and 81%, respectively), but Uchime9s performance deteriorated for longer sequences, while ss_DECIPHER maintained a high detection rate (89%). Both methods had low false-positive rates (1.3% and 1.6%). The more conservative fs_DECIPHER, benchmarked only for sequences longer than 600 nucleotides, had an overall detection rate lower than that of ss_DECIPHER (75%) but higher than those of the other programs. In addition, fs_DECIPHER had the lowest false-positive rate among all the benchmarked programs (
SPM Measurements of Ferroelectrics at MHZ Frequencies

The concepts behind several MHz frequency SPM investigations of ferroelectrics are presented. These include studies of domains switched at MHz frequencies and measured in the kHz range, and imaging techniques based on MHz excitations of domains detected at the same or downconverted frequencies. In order to characterize the results, interactions between the sample and the integrated cantilever and tip are simulated accounting for a broad range of experimental conditions. The non-negligible influence of several seldom considered effects is uniquely incorporated, such as distributed loads acting along the cantilever and the corresponding error in measurements by a standard beam-bounce-detecting AFM due to the angular sensitivity. These simulations provide a better understanding of both standard kHz range piezo-mode force microscopy (PFM) as well as the higher frequency measurements discussed here. MHz measurements of ferroelectric hysteresis, domain switching, and domain maps agree with the theory.
A holon‐based process modeling methodology

Process models are a valuable tool in the design and configuration of enterprises. However, current modeling techniques have shortcomings that prevent them from fully supporting the analysis required to design an enterprise. This is especially true when considering the needs of modeling highly distributed and temporary multi‐company enterprises such as fractal or virtual enterprises. This paper presents a modeling scheme that supports a process‐centered approach to the analysis and design of both conventional and extended enterprises. Using a holon‐based approach to model the components of an enterprise, it allows for the development of integrated business rule, activity, resource, business process, and organizational views of the enterprise using the IDEF suite of modeling methods. The scheme is built around a central IDEF5 model of the enterprise from which the other views are extracted. The paper also describes the technique for developing an enterprise model using the scheme.
Evolutionary Persistence of Chemically Elicited Ophiophagous Antipredator Responses in Gartersnakes (Thamnophis sirtalis)

The ability to detect and respond to potential predators is key for the survival of individuals, but this ability is sometimes lost via relaxation of antipredator behavior when prey species are separated from predators. Adult and predator-naive neonate gartersnakes (Thamnophis sirtalis) from mainland and insular sites where they do and do not occur with ophiophagous (snake-eating) snakes were tested to determine if responses to such predators have been lost, reduced, or retained, and what might be causing differences in such responses. Our data indicate that, overall, adult snakes from populations syntopic with ophiophagous milksnakes are more responsive to chemical stimuli from milksnakes than adults from areas where they are not syntopic with milksnakes, whereas there were few differences with neonate gartersnakes. Experiments with neonates with or without periodic ophiophagous snake chemical expe- rience over several weeks showed that gartersnakes with such experience became more responsive to ophiophagous cues rather than habituating to them. Such evidence of both genetic and experiential factors underlying the antipredator responses to ophiophagous snakes indicates that antipredator responses have persisted despite separation of predator and prey.
Causal Inference and Comparative Methods

Various ways are considered to infer causality from a relatively small number of cases that can be selected but not manipulated. The development of the “comparable-cases strategy” is examined first...
Inter-temporal Pricing with Strategic Customer Behavior

This paper develops a model of dynamic pricing with endogenous inter-temporal demand. In the model, there is a monopolist who sells a finite inventory over a finite time horizon. The seller adjusts prices dynamically in order to maximize revenue. Customers arrive continually over the duration of the selling season. At each point in time, customers may purchase the product at current prices, remain in the market at a cost in order to purchase later, or exit, and they wish to maximize individual utility. The customer population is heterogeneous along two dimensions: they may have different valuations for the product and different degrees of patience (waiting costs). We demonstrate that heterogeneity in both valuation and patience is important because they jointly determine the structure of optimal pricing policies. In particular, when high-value customers are proportionately less patient, markdown pricing policies are effective because the high-value customers would buy early at high prices while the low-value customers are willing to wait (i.e. they are not lost). On the other hand, when the high-value customers are more patient than the low-value customers, prices should increase over time in order to discourage inefficient waiting. Contrary to intuition, we find that strategic waiting by customers may sometimes benefit the seller: when low-value customers wait, they compete for availability with high-value customers and thus increase their willingness to pay. Our results also shed light on how the composition of the customer population affects optimal revenue, consumer surplus, and social welfare. Finally, we consider the long run problem of selecting the optimal initial stocking quantity.
Optimal entanglement-assisted one-shot classical communication

The one-shot success probability of a noisy classical channel for transmitting one classical bit is the optimal probability with which the bit can be successfully sent via a single use of the channel. Prevedel et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 106, 110505 (2011)] recently showed that for a specific channel, this quantity can be increased if the parties using the channel share an entangled quantum state. In this paper, we characterize the optimal entanglement-assisted protocols in terms of the radius of a set of operators associated with the channel. This characterization can be used to construct optimal entanglement-assisted protocols for a given classical channel and to prove the limits of such protocols. As an example, we show that the Prevedel et al. protocol is optimal for two-qubit entanglement. We also prove some tight upper bounds on the improvement that can be obtained from quantum and nonsignaling correlations.
Multiple target detection for an antenna array using outlier rejection methods

When there are multiple targets in a Gaussian noise background, single target detection methods can cause missed detections. The missed detections result because targets are present in the data used to estimate the covariance. Range bins containing targets differ from target-free range bins and are considered to be outliers. Different outlier rejection methods for multivariate data are developed. These methods include single outlier detection via hypothesis testing and multiple outlier detection using model order methods. Range bins detected as outliers are removed from the covariance estimate and target detection is performed. Simulation results for the various outlier rejection methods are presented. >
Options for shielding Tokamak Cooling Water electrical components against high magnetic fields

The Tokamak Cooling Water System (TCWS) Instrumentation and Control (I&C) components of ITER will be located in areas of relatively high magnetic fields. Previous tests on electrical and I&C components have indicated that shielding will be required to protect these components from such magnetic fields. To accomplish this, studies were performed by AREVA Federal Services (AFS) in support of the TCWS Design project with the intent of identifying an optimal solution for shielding I&C components. This paper presents a summary of these studies and presents design options for providing magnetic shielding to ITER TCWS I&C components and electrical equipment that are susceptible to the magnetic fields present.
Heart transplantation for undiagnosed cardiac sarcoidosis.

H transplantation (HT) for cardiac sarcoidosis is rare. Only 6 patients having HT for cardiac sarcoidosis have been previously reported (Table 1). In 2 of them, the diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis was not known at the time of HT. In this report, we describe a patient who underwent HT for presumed idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDC), but on examination, the explanted heart was found to have extensive cardiac sarcoidosis.
Acclimatization of the Crustose Coralline Alga Porolithon onkodes to Variable pCO2

Ocean acidification (OA) has important implications for the persistence of coral reef ecosystems, due to potentially negative effects on biomineralization. Many coral reefs are dynamic with respect to carbonate chemistry, and experience fluctuations in pCO2 that exceed OA projections for the near future. To understand the influence of dynamic pCO2 on an important reef calcifier, we tested the response of the crustose coralline alga Porolithon onkodes to oscillating pCO2. Individuals were exposed to ambient (400 µatm), high (660 µatm), or variable pCO2 (oscillating between 400/660 µatm) treatments for 14 days. To explore the potential for coralline acclimatization, we collected individuals from low and high pCO2 variability sites (upstream and downstream respectively) on a back reef characterized by unidirectional water flow in Moorea, French Polynesia. We quantified the effects of treatment on algal calcification by measuring the change in buoyant weight, and on algal metabolism by conducting sealed incubations to measure rates of photosynthesis and respiration. Net photosynthesis was higher in the ambient treatment than the variable treatment, regardless of habitat origin, and there was no effect on respiration or gross photosynthesis. Exposure to high pCO2 decreased P. onkodes calcification by >70%, regardless of the original habitat. In the variable treatment, corallines from the high variability habitat calcified 42% more than corallines from the low variability habitat. The significance of the original habitat for the coralline calcification response to variable, high pCO2 indicates that individuals existing in dynamic pCO2 habitats may be acclimatized to OA within the scope of in situ variability. These results highlight the importance of accounting for natural pCO2 variability in OA manipulations, and provide insight into the potential for plasticity in habitat and species-specific responses to changing ocean chemistry.