cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Responses of ligated larvae of the flesh fly, Boettcherisca peregrina (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), to injected ecdysteroids: a possible usage for a simple in vivo assay for ecdysteroid measurement

Mature larvae of the flesh fly, Boettcherisca peregrina, ligated at the tenth abdominal segment in the last larval stage showed a disturbance of puparium formation (pupariation) in the anterior portion. The anterior portion of the larval body was injected with samples tested. The disturbance of pupariation in the anterior portion was dose-dependently rescued by a single injection of ecdysteroids. The minimum effective doses of exogenous ecdysteroids to induce puparial tanning at the anterior portion were 125, 64, 64, 32, 16 and 8 ng for inokosterone, ecdysone, 20-hydroxyecdysone-22acetate, ponasterone A, 20-hydroxyecdysone and polypodine B, respectively. This assay showed a similar ecdysteroid-sensitivity to a conventional bioassay but produced results approximately 2 days earlier than the conventional assay that employed the isolated abdomen of B. peregrina larvae ligated at the sixth body segment.
Structural tailoring of silicon chalcogenide glasses: Compositional control of edge-sharing units as monitored by high-resolution29Si solid state NMR

29Si MAS-NMR data provide strong evidence for the presence of edgesharing tetrahedra in non-oxide chalcogenide glasses derived from SiS2 and SiSe2. The spectra show three distinct peaks which have been assigned on the basis of suitable model compound studies. It is further shown that the fraction of edge-sharing can be controlled by compositional parameters. In glassy SiSe2 both the presence of excess selenium and additional network formers such as phosphorus selenide are shown to diminish the degree of edge-sharing due to the formation of Si-Se-Se or Si-Se-P bonds. In glassy SiS2 a similar effect can be accomplished by a network modifier such as Li2S. In the latter case, the creation of nonbridging chalcogen atoms is accompanied by a concomitant decrease of edge-sharing tetrahedra.
Assessment of Rich-Burn, Quick-Mix, Lean-Burn Trapped Vortex Combustor for Stationary Gas Turbines

This paper describes the evaluation of an alternative combustion approach to achieve low emissions for a wide range of fuel types. This approach combines the potential advantages of a staged rich-burn, quick-mix, lean-burn (RQL) combustor with the revolutionary trapped vortex combustor (TVC) concept. Although RQL combustors have been proposed for low-Btu fuels, this paper considers the application of an RQL combustor for high-Btu natural gas applications. This paper will describe the RQL/TVC concept and experimental results conducted at 10 atm (1013 kPa or 147 psia) and an inlet-air temperature of 644 K (700°F). The results from a simple network reactor model using detailed kinetics are compared to the experimental observations. Neglecting mixing limitations, the simplified model suggests that NOx and CO performance below 10 parts per million could be achieved in an RQL approach. The CO levels predicted by the model are reasonably close to the experimental results over a wide range of operating conditions. The predicted NOx levels are reasonably close for some operating conditions; however, as the rich-stage equivalence ratio increases, the discrepancy between the experiment and the model increases. Mixing limitations are critical in any RQL combustor, and the mixing limitations for this RQL/TVC design are discussed.
Moderation by goal commitment of the feedback–performance relationship: Theoretical explanation and preliminary study

Abstract This paper presents goal commitment as one stage of a multidimensional goal striving process that affects feedback acquisition, processing, and use during the achievement of performance goals. Specifically, this paper argues that higher goal commitment leads to more effective acquisition, processing, and use of feedback that in turn fosters higher performance than does lower goal commitment. To provide a preliminary test of this proposition, data from an earlier field study conducted by the author and colleagues [J. Occup. Organ. Psychol. 72 (1999) 107] were used to examine the moderating effects of goal commitment on the relationship between perceived task feedback amount and work performance of 196 rehabilitation counselors. Results were consistent with this proposed interaction, as perceived task feedback amount had a positive linear relationship with work performance for higher goal commitment rehabilitation counselors and a negative linear relationship with performance for lower goal commitment counselors. The discussion urges researchers to broaden their views of goal commitment beyond the goal difficulty–performance relationship and to devote more attention to moderators of the feedback–performance relationship. Directions for future research and practical implications are also discussed.
Future generation CT imaging

Since the 1970s CT has been used to generatecross-sectional images of human anatomy from x-rayprojection data acquired at many angular positionsaround the body. The development of the first CTscanner is credited to Hounsfield [1], using recon-struction methods developed by Cormack [2]. Sincethen several key technological advancements haveincreased the usefulness of CT to the point where ithas become an essential tool in the clinical evaluationof patients, with most hospitals having CT scannersavailable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. First-generation CT systems, which used a single, thinx-ray beam and a single detector element to acquirethe x-ray projection data necessary for image recon-struction, quickly evolved into third-generation sys-tems, which use a fan-shaped x-ray beam combinedwith a rotating x-ray tube and detector to acquire thex-ray projection data needed for image reconstruc-tion. With the development of helical CT systems inthe late 1980s [3–6], large sections of anatomy couldbe scanned quickly using linear, continuous table mo-tion, enabling faster throughput and better registrationbetween adjacent slices of the body. Electron beamCT (EBCT) technology, incorporating a stationarydetector and using an x-ray tube comprised of astationary target ring and a swept electron beam,was developed in 1983 to scan the heart and coronaryarteries at subsecond scan times, thereby reducingmotion artifacts resulting from the beating of the heartduring data acquisition [7]. Recently, CT has furtherevolved from single-slice scanners to systems incor-porating multiple detector rows with improved reso-lution, with the introduction of multislice CT (MSCT)in 1998, enabling high-resolution, thin-slice scanningof large sections of human anatomy.Over the years CTscanning has found widespreaduse in imaging applications for trauma assessment,thoracicandvascularstudies,andstrokeassessment,aswellasemergingapplicationsincardiacimaging,lungcancer detection, colonoscopy, and brain and myo-cardial perfusion. The goal of this article is to outlinesome of the recent technological advances that willdrive future CTevolution and to describe the recentlyenabled applications and trends in chest imaging.Image acquisition aspectsImage acquisition with today’s multislice scanneris more flexible when compared with a single-slicescanner because many scanning modes are madeavailable to the clinician. For example, several com-binations of slice thickness and helical pitch can nowbe used to scan the full thorax within a single breath-hold, giving clinicians many options to maximize theclinical value of the acquired images. Because moreprotocol options are available to the clinician, it is im-portanttounderstandtherelationshipbetweenscannerparameters and resulting image quality so that theacquisition can be tailored to meet the particularimaging need. Some of the key geometric parametersare identified in Fig. 1, a third-generation CTsystem.Two important characteristics to consider whenthinking about CT image quality are spatial resolu-tion and image noise. The key imaging parameters
Electrochemical Determination of Xanthine Oxidase-Catalyzed Oxidation of Xanthine

Abstract A rapid electrochemical (chronoamperometric) method for the determination of xanthine oxidase catalyzed oxidation of xanthine and hypoxanthine is described. The assay is based on the anodic oxidation of the product, uric acid, at a stationary carbon paste electrode. Metabolism was monitored as reaction proceeded by direct insertion of a three-electrode assembly into incubation mixtures, applying a potential and measuring current after a 7 sec controlled electrolysis. The method requires no sample preparation, nor utilization of external reagents, and is compared with the on-line spectrophotonetric analysis based on monitoring the appearance of uric acid detected as an increase in absorbance at 290 nm.
Hypermedia, help and how-to

Hypermedia will soon become a basic tool for providing information support for all sizes of computing systems. Documentation professionals will need to make an efficient transition to this new method of presenting information. Structural aspects of existing hardcopy documents and on-line help can serve as a guide, but some rethinking of how information is presented will be needed to take full advantage of the potential of hypermedia.
Growing where you are planted: Exogenous firms and the seeding of Silicon Valley

Abstract What are the respective roles of indigenous and exogenous factors in the development of high-tech regions? Entrepreneurs and their start-ups have dominated Silicon Valley's economy in recent decades, but a different dynamic was at work from 1940 to 1965, when the Valley emerged as a formidable high-tech region. In key industries (electronics, semiconductors, computers, and aerospace) that defined Silicon Valley as a high-tech cluster during that period, companies based elsewhere played critical roles in planting the organizations that would – through the innovations they made, the technical talent they attracted, and the start-ups they spun off – help make the Valley the world's most admired and emulated high-tech region.
Cardiac and Metabolic Effects of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Abuse on Lipids, Blood Pressure, Left Ventricular Dimensions, and Rhythm

Recent surveys and reports suggest that many athletes and bodybuilders abuse anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). However, scientific data on the cardiac and metabolic complications of AAS abuse are divergent and often conflicting. A total of 49 studies describing 1,467 athletes were reviewed to investigate the cardiovascular effects of the abuse of AAS. Although studies were typically small and retrospective, some associated AAS abuse with unfavorable effects. Otherwise healthy young athletes abusing AAS may show elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein and low levels of high-density lipoprotein. Although data are conflicting, AAS have also been linked with elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure and with left ventricular hypertrophy that may persist after AAS cessation. Finally, in small case studies, AAS abuse has been linked with acute myocardial infarction and fatal ventricular arrhythmias. In conclusion, recognition of these adverse effects may improve the education of athletes and increase vigilance when evaluating young athletes with cardiovascular abnormalities.
AMPA-Induced Excitotoxicity Increases Nuclear Levels of CAD, Endonuclease G, and Acinus and Induces Chromatin Condensation in Rat Hippocampal Pyramidal Neurons

Programmed cell death has been linked to AMPA-receptor-mediated excitotoxicity in pyramidal neurons of the hippocampus. The intent of this study was to investigate the roles of caspase-dependent and independent nuclear death-related factors in mediating AMPA-induced nuclear changes in PyNs by use of immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Data indicate increases in the nuclear levels of caspase-activated acinus and DNase and Endonuclease G (a caspase-independent endonuclease) in CA1 and CA3 PyN nuclei with different temporal patterns following an AMPA-insult. Hoechst staining and TEM confirm AMPA-induced chromatin condensation. The presence of active acinus in nuclei suggests it mediates chromatin condensation. Interestingly, a DNA fragmentation labeling protocol showed that there was no chromatin cleavage up to 90 min after AMPA-insult. Overall, we conclude that: 1) AMPA-induced excitotoxicity increases nuclear immunoreactivity of pro-death enzymes from multiple programmed cell death pathways, 2) differential chromatin condensation patterns occur between CA1 and CA3, and 3) there is no chromatin cleavage within our experimental timeframe.
Thin-layer chromatography of carbonyl compounds separation of aliphatic carbonyl 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazones into classes

Abstract A procedure is described for the separation of the 2,4-dinitrophenyldrazine derivatives of aliphatic carbonyl compounds into classes by thin-layer chromatography on magnesia-Celite plates. The four classes examined were the methyl ketones, saturated aldehydes, 2-enals, and 2,4-dienals. Each class produces a characteristic color to the plate which aids in its classification. The procedure, which takes about 1 hour, will readily permit the classification of as little as 9 × 10 −4 μmoles of any of the classes studied.
On the implementation of the frequency-domain LMS adaptive filter

Alternative implementations for the frequency-domain LMS adaptive filter are presented. One of the implementations uses an LMS steepest-descent algorithm to compute the discrete Fourier transform (DFT). Therefore, the frequency-domain LMS adaptive filter is implemented as a cascade of two parts, with each one running the LMS adaptive algorithm. This requires fewer computations than the FFT for large filter lengths. Simulations of practical applications of frequency-domain LMS adaptive filters are carried out to determine their suitability, and comparisons are made with simulations using the FFT. For real input data, another frequency-domain LMS adaptive filter is suggested based on the discrete Hartley transform (DHT). >
Assessing the ability of airborne LiDAR to map river bathymetry

Airborne bathymetric LiDAR was collected for 220 river kilometers in the Yakima and Trinity River Basins in the United States. Concomitant with the aerial data collection, ground surveys of the river bed were performed in both basins. We assess the quality of the bathymetric LiDAR survey from the perspective of its application toward creating accurate, precise, and complete streambed topography for numerical modeling and geomorphic assessment. Measurement error is evaluated with respect to ground surveys for magnitude and spatial variation. Analysis of variance statistics indicate that residuals from two independent ground surveys in similar locations do not come from the same population and that mean errors at different study locations also come from different populations. Systematic error indicates a consistent bias in the data and random error falls within values of expected precision.
Effect of age on hepatic cytochrome P450 of Ross 708 broiler chickens

Age has significant impact on hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP450) systems in animals. Ross 708 broiler chicken is a breed of chicken with fast growth characteristics. Cytochrome P450 in the livers of Ross 708 broiler chicken of different ages has been investigated. The birds were raised under standard husbandry conditions. A certain number of chickens was randomly sampled weekly for liver collection from d 1 to 56 posthatch. The chicken body and liver weights were recorded. The chicken livers were processed for liver microsomes though a multiple-step procedure at low temperature. Total CYP450 content in chicken liver homogenates and liver microsomes was measured using a UV/visible spectroscopic method. The enzymatic activities of CYP450 in the chicken liver microsomes were determined through incubation of CYP450 isoform substrates followed by measurement of formation of their metabolites. The chicken showed an opposite age pattern in hepatic CYP450 content and activities compared with most mammals. The hepatic CYP450 content and activities of chicken at d 1 posthatch were higher than at other ages. The total hepatic CYP450 content in chickens at d 1 posthatch was more than twice the average hepatic value of the chickens at d 7 to 28. This high CYP450 fell quickly in the first week posthatch and slightly rose from d 28 to 56. Hepatic CYP450 activities of CYP1A, 3A, 2C, 2D, and 2H were much higher in the chicken at d 1 posthatch. The differences of these enzymatic activities between d 1 and other ages of chicken were CYP450 isoform dependent. This result suggests that embryonic development of chicken livers has a significant impact on the age profile of hepatic CYP450 content and activities of posthatch chickens.
Synthesis of (E)-4-hydroxydimethylallyl diphosphate. An intermediate in the methyl erythritol phosphate branch of the isoprenoid pathway.

The syntheses of (E)-1-hydroxy-2-methyl-2-buten- 4-yl diphosphate ((E)-4-hydroxydimethylallyl diphosphate, HDMAPP), an intermediate in the methyl erythritol phos- phate pathway, and (E)-(4- 2 H)HDMAPP were accomplished in two steps from (E)-4-chloro-2-methyl-2-butenal. The synthetic route is easily adaptable for the facile incorporation of tritium at C-4 of the diphosphate.
Maternal umbilicus: Ultrasound window to the gravid uterus

Transabdominal sonograms of 68 consecutive pregnant women were reviewed retrospectively. Images of fetal parts obtained through the umbilical window (UW) were compared with those obtained through the paraumbilical window (PUW) as to (1) thickness of tissue to amniotic cavity, (2) clarity of the part imaged, and (3) noise produced. The paraumbilical tissue thickness had a mean of 18 mm; the umbilical tissue thickness, a mean of 11 mm. In patients where the difference in thickness of their paraumbilical tissue and umbilical tissue was only 0 mm to 6 mm (group 1), the UW improved clarity in 10 of 34 (29%), reduced clarity in 3 of 34 (9%), and did not change clarity in 21 of 34 (62%). Improvement of images with use of the UW was not statistically significant. However, in the group of patients with the difference in tissue thickness between the paraumbilical and umbilical areas of > 6 mm (group 2), clarity was improved in 19 of 32 (60%), reduced in 2 of 32 (6%), and was unaltered in 11 of 32 (34%). In this group the image improvement with the UW was statistically significant. Images through the UW had relatively less noise. In group 1, noise was reduced in 12 of 35 (34%). The effect of the UW on noise reduction was more significant in group 2 (tissue thickness difference > 6 mm): 24 of 31 (77%) of cases. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Identification of radioactivity in cell nuclei from brain, pituitary gland and genital tract of male rhesus monkeys after the administration of [3H]testosterone.

Abstract Enzymes are present in the primate brain that convert testosterone into-17β-hydroxy-5α-androstan-3-one (dihydrotestosterone), estradiol-17β and 4-androstene-3,17-dione. To identify the metabolites of testosterone that accumulate in cell nuclei obtained from different regions of the brain, 9 adult castrated male rhesus monkeys were injected with 5 mCi [ 3 H]testosterone as an intravenous bolus. After 1 h, brains were rapidly removed and the left halves were used for autoradiography while the right halves were dissected to provide 14 samples. Radioactive metabolites in cell nuclei were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and by repeated recrystallization. In autoradiograms of brain, most of the labeled neurons were in the hypothalamus, preoptic area and amygdala. These three regions also had the highest levels of radioactivity. The major form of this radioactivity was [ 3 H]estradiol 17β (Type I tissues) and the major radioactive androgen present was [ 3 H]testosterone. In all other brain regions and pituitary gland, the major form of radioactivity was unchanged [ 3 H]testosterone (Type II tissues). In genital tract structures, [ 3 H]dihydrotestosterone predominated (Type III tissues). These results suggested that, in contrast to its actions on genital tract structures, testosterone acts on neuronal nuclei mainly in unmetabolized form or after conversion to estradiol-17β.
A process for evaluation of a multi-faceted educational renewal project

Abstract By careful analysis of the information, we have gleaned a strong sense of support for the renewal of teacher education and strengthening of partnerships with the participating public schools in these specific settings. While there are minor concerns regarding administrative structure and governance, there continues to be strong support for related renewal activities such as the PEP program and the use of advisory councils with the partner schools. The evaluation evidence was conclusive as sustained conversation regarding the agenda of simultaneous renewal did occur under the auspices of this funded project. The evaluators believe that the model developed and used to assess this renewal effort has transportability to other sites seeking to evaluate multi-institution collaborative.
Making Fresnel Off-Axis Parabolic Mirrors by the Evaporation Technique

A technique was worked out for making Fresnel off-axis parabolic mirrors by selective deposition of evaporated aluminum onto spherical mirrors. Tests were made to determine the extent and the nature of the interference between the light reflected from the different zones. When the illuminating slit was parallel to the principal radius there was no undesirable interference and no appreciable reduction in resolving power.
Multilingual Records in WorldCat

ABSTRACT Since the mid-1990s, OCLC has been loading into WorldCat records that originate from sources other than member libraries. This paper addresses the issues created by vendor-contributed records for Spanish language materials and some of the internal, temporary solutions developed by the University of New Mexico General Library (UNMGL) Catalog Services Department for cataloging with these records. Based on four years of day-to-day experience cataloging titles represented in WorldCat by vendor records, the staff of the Ibero Resources Section at UNMGL has devised procedures to identify problem areas that can cause serious access issues for OPAC users. The fact that some U.S. libraries often download these vendor-created records and do not upgrade/enhance them for the rest of the cataloging community complicates the picture. On the flip side, some that do make the effort to lock and replace the master record, fail to do a thorough job. Even more complications arise when OCLC actively recruits new memb...
Effect of mineral dust aerosol aspect ratio on polarized reflectance

Abstract The effects of dust particle aspect ratios on single- and multiple-scattering processes are studied using the spheroidal model in order to obtain a better understanding of the radiance and polarization signals at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) under various dust-aerosol-loading conditions. Specifically, the impact of the particle aspect ratio on the polarization state of the TOA radiation field is demonstrated by comparing the normalized polarized radiances observed by the POLDER (POLarization and Directionality of the Earth׳s Reflectances) instrument on board the PARASOL (Polarisation et Anisotropie des Reflectances au sommet de l׳Atmosphere, couples avec un Satellite d׳Observation emportant un Lidar) satellite with the corresponding theoretical counterparts. Furthermore, presented are the aspect ratio values inferred from multi-angular polarized radiance measurements of Saharan and Asian dust by the POLDER/PARASOL.
Theory Versus Experiment for the Rotordynamic Coefficients of Labyrinth Gas Seals: Part I—A Two Control Volume Model

The basic equations are derived for a two-control-volume model for compressible flow in a labyrinth seal. The recirculation velocity in the cavity is incorporated into the model for the first time. The flow is assumed to be completely turbulent and isoenergetic. The wall friction factors are determined using the Blasius formula. Jet flow theory is used for the calculation of the recirculation velocity in the cavity. Linearized zeroth- and first-order perturbation equations are developed for small motion about a centered position by an expansion in the eccentricity ratio. The zeroth-order pressure distribution is found by satisfying the leakage equation while the circumferential velocity distribution is determined by satisfying the momentum equations. The first-order equations are solved by a separation of variable solution. Integration of the resultant pressure distribution along and around the seal defines the reaction force developed by the seal and the corresponding dynamic coefficients.
Economic Distress and Families: Policy Issues

This article examines the impact of economic distress on families and analyzes policies and programs that prevent, reduce, and alleviate economic distress. The prevention of economic distress requires job creation and retention programs and an integrated program of income supports. Economic distress may be reduced through reemployment, a shift in the family work effort, or participation in the informal economy. Families cope with economic distress through financial management, decisions regarding family composition, definitional coping, and the use of social supports. Large-scale economic changes and frequent recessions are challenging policymakers, communities, and families to develop creative and innovative strategies to prevent, reduce, and alleviate economic distress.
Rete di comunicazione e assetto del territorio nel PTCP di Napoli

Il PTCP nasce nel clima della pianificazione europea rivolta alla realizzazione della rete TenT e della ricerca di come questo sistema di connessione potesse diventare strumento di sviluppo e coesione territoriale. Nella stessa scia si colloca tanto il Quadro Strategico Nazionale che il Piano Strategico Ragionale nei quali si definisce il ruolo territoriale della metropoli napoletana nel contesto internazionale. Queste premesse forniscono utili indicazioni per determinare l’organizzazione generale del territorio napoletano sia perche determinano nuovi ingressi da attrezzare adeguatamente al ruolo di vetrine e di accoglienza, sia perche contribuiscono a realizzare il sistema policentrico locale e le connessioni nel sistema delle centralita regionali. Tra i problemi di maggior delicatezza che si pongono c’e l’equilibrio tra vecchie e nuove centralita, ovvero la scelta se procedere secondo uno sviluppo additivo al sistema urbano esistente con il rispetto del patrimonio culturale e delle radici storiche. L’altro fondamentale termine di confronto e costituito dalle esigenze ambientali affermate prioritariamente con la difesa delle aree agricole e degli spazi aperti, ma di cui non si possono trascurare altre implicazioni quali quelle della capacita di un sistema urbano concentrato di rafforzare la competitivita della mobilita verde.
Null Association between Vitamin D and PSA Levels among Black Men in a Vitamin D Supplementation Trial

Background: Black men exhibit a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency as well as a higher incidence of prostate cancer and higher mortality rates from prostate cancer than Whites. There are few data about the effect of vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplementation on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in healthy Black men. Methods: During three winters from 2007 to 2010, 105 Black men (median age, 48.9 years) of Boston, MA were randomized into a four-arm, double-blind trial for 3 months of placebo, 1,000, 2,000, or 4,000 U of vitamin D3. At baseline and 3 months, free and total PSA was measured. Results: With vitamin D supplementation, no significant differences in free and total PSA were observed; free PSA, −0.0004 ng/mL ( P = 0.94) and total PSA, −0.004 ng/mL ( P = 0.92) for each additional 1,000 U/d of vitamin D3. Conclusion: Within an unselected population of healthy Black men without a cancer diagnosis, we found no effect of vitamin D supplementation on free or total PSA. Impact: These findings support prior findings of no change in PSA with vitamin D supplementation and emphasize the need for new methods to assess the influence of vitamin D supplementation on prostate cancer prevention. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(9); 1944–7. ©2014 AACR .
Setting a Judicial Agenda: The Decision to Grant En Banc Review in the U.S. Courts of Appeals

Agenda setting has received only modest attention in studies of the judiciary. This reflects the limited control most courts exercise over the cases they hear. We analyze the influence of ideological and legal factors on the grant of en banc rehearing in the U.S. Courts of Appeals—one of the few instances of agenda control in the lower federal courts. Unlike previous research, we examine multiple decision points in the agenda-setting process. Our results indicate that the influence of attitudinal and legal factors varies across decision points revealing a complexity obscured in previous work. Our research underscores the importance of treating agenda setting as a process rather than as a single decision.
Experience in reverse osmosis pretreatment

To prevent reverse osmosis (RO) membrane fouling, all the organic, colloidal and biological matter needs to be removed from the feed water to the RO system. A proper pretreatment is therefore considered to be the key to successful RO plant operation. A key component of the RO pretreatment process is the deep bed filter. The purpose of this filter is to remove suspended matter such as the precipitates of coagulation and flocculation and various microorganisms. This paper outlines the pretreatment steps involved in preparing the water to enter the RO membranes, with particular emphasis on filtration, which is considered the heart of the pretreatment process. Case studies are presented from over 30 years of experience in the field of pretreatment. Filter media selection with regard to their type, size, size distribution and specific gravity (SG) are discussed. What causes filter media losses during backwash, short filter runs, free board requirements are explained and field examples are presented. Optimum packing layer configurations to avoid percolation of filter media into the filter underdrain that can cause nozzle blockages and contamination of filtrate water are presented. Optimum backwash velocities to keep the filter bed clean and avoid mud balling leading to channeling and filter media solidification are also discussed.
Analysis of cumulative strain in tendons and tendon sheaths

Twenty-five fresh frozen flexor digitorum profundus tendons stratified by sex were subjected to uniaxial step stress and cyclic loads in twelve intact human cadaver hands. By attaching specially designed clip strain gage transducers on tendons just proximal and distal to an undisrupted carpal tunnel, the interactions of the tendons, tendon sheath and retinacula were measured. The elastic and viscous response of the tendon composites to step stresses were found to fit fractional power functions of stress and time respectively. A significant and quantifiable decrease in strain from the proximal to the distal tendon segment was found to be a function of wrist deviation. The results indicate that an accumulation of strain does occur in tendinous tissues during physiologic loading.
A local extended Kalman filter for visual tracking

This paper applies estimation theory to the problem of tracking deformable moving objects in an image sequence. We extend previous work to derive a sub-optimal second-order curve filtering strategy. The second-order model accounts naturally for the curve velocities, resulting in better curve predictions. The second-order curve dynamics are nonlinear, so an extended Kalman filtering approach is utilized to estimate the position and deformations of a curve as it evolves in the plane. Application to visual tracking is emphasized through experiments utilizing recorded imagery and providing objective comparisons to other tracking methods.
A field experiment in interpersonal persuasion using authoritative influence

Summary Thinking that they were simply being interviewed as participants in a public opinion survey, a portion of a cross-sectional adult sample of 1,275 persons were unwitting subjects of an experiment in interpersonal persuasion After committing themselves on the question how the legal machinery should deal with a specific case of a juvenile lawbreaker, subjects were given an argument presented as the view of an expert and contrary to their own It was hypothesized that subjects scoring higher on a scale measuring authoritarianism would more commonly change their opinion in the advocated direction than would those scoring lower The hypothesis received substantial confirmation Two secondary hypotheses also were sustained. These were (a) that persons assigning the locus of causality of juvenile delinquency to the individual himself rather than to circumstances beyond his control would have higher scores on authoritarianism than persons assigning causality to these latter conditions, and (b) that persons scoring higher in authoritarianism would initially more commonly recommend a harsher treatment of the delinquent than would those scoring lower in this trait
Psychological issues among children of hereditary breast cancer gene (BRCA1/2) testing participants

Children growing up in hereditary breast cancer families may experience diminished psychological well-being. In addition to coping with having a cancer-affected parent or close relatives, these children may focus on their own health risks in light of shared genetic information. While knowledge of a parent's BRCA1/2 negative status may allay a subset of children's worries and fears about cancer, others could experience distressing thought patterns over positive test results. The purpose of this preliminary study is to explore conceptions of health, cancer risk, and psychological adjustment among children in families suggestive of carrying BRCA1/2 susceptibility genes. As part of a longitudinal investigation of the outcomes of BRCA1/2 testing in adults, 20 children of a highly select group of 15 mothers (80% previously affected by breast/ovarian cancer) completed a self-report survey of their beliefs and opinions regarding cancer and genetic testing, stress and worry about cancer, and anxiety, depression, and behavior problems. All information was completed at baseline, prior to the mother's receipt of her genetic test result. The data did not suggest unusually elevated cancer worries or psychological adjustment problems in these children at this point in the parental genetic testing process. However, children with more psychological distress symptoms did experience more frequent thoughts of becoming sick and greater cancer worries. To the extent that learning about a parent's positive test result could exacerbate these tendencies, recommendations to promote child psychological and family communications research that monitor such responses are offered. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Hidden Curriculum? Examining the Gender Content in Introductory-Level Political Science Textbooks

Gender mainstreaming is a curricular reform emphasizing the inclusion of gendered perspectives into required coursework for the political science major. The burden of mainstreaming gendered content (along with other diversity subjects) ultimately lies with the instructor, who must provide a rigorous, comprehensive, and intellectually challenging course. To the extent that instructors rely on textbooks to structure (and even streamline) course development, the textbook is an important entry point for exploring the prevalence of gender content in the political science curriculum. Given the symbolic status of textbooks as “repositories of official knowledge” for the discipline (Ferree and Hall 1996), the exploration of content on women in introductory-level American politics textbooks offers insight into the messages students commonly receive about the role of women in American political life.
Effect of Long-term Community Health Education on Body Mass Index: The Stanford Five-City Project

Being overweight is a risk factor for cardiovascular heart disease and other medical problems. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a community-wide cardiovascular risk reduction trial (the Stanford Five-City Project) on body mass index. In the Stanford Five-City Project, two treatment cities (n = 122,800) received a 6-year mass media and community organization cardiovascular risk reduction intervention. Changes in the treatment cities were compared with two control cities (n = 197,500) for changes in knowledge of risk factors, blood pressure, plasma cholesterol level, smoking rate, body mass index, and resting pulse rate after 5-1/3 years of the education program. Both cohort and cross-sectional (independent) samples were used in the study. In the independent surveys, subjects in the treatment communities gained significantly less weight than subjects in the control communities (0.57 kg compared with 1.25 kg) over 6 years. In the cohort, there were no significant overall differences. The study provides some evidence that a community health education program may help reduce weight gain over time, but more effective methods must be developed if this important risk factor is to be favorably affected in broad populations.
Inositol Hexakisphosphate Kinase 1 (IP6K1) Regulates Inositol Synthesis in Mammalian Cells

myo-Inositol, the precursor of all inositol compounds, has pivotal roles in cell metabolism and signaling pathways. Although physiological studies indicate a strong correlation between abnormal intracellular inositol levels and neurological disorders, very little is known about the regulation of inositol synthesis in mammalian cells. In this study, we report that IP6K1, an inositol hexakisphosphate kinase that catalyzes the synthesis of inositol pyrophosphate, regulates inositol synthesis in mammalian cells. Ip6k1 ablation led to profound changes in DNA methylation and expression of Isyna1 (designated mIno1), which encodes the rate-limiting enzyme inositol-3-phosphate synthase. Interestingly, IP6K1 preferentially bound to the phospholipid phosphatidic acid, and this binding was required for IP6K1 nuclear localization and the regulation of mIno1 transcription. This is the first demonstration of IP6K1 as a novel negative regulator of inositol synthesis in mammalian cells.
Self-Assembly of Archimedean Tilings with Enthalpically and Entropically Patchy Polygons

Considerable progress in the synthesis of anisotropic patchy nanoplates (nanoplatelets) promises a rich variety of highly ordered two-dimensional superlattices. Recent experiments of superlattices assembled from nanoplates confirm the accessibility of exotic phases and motivate the need for a better understanding of the underlying self-assembly mechanisms. Here, we present experimentally accessible, rational design rules for the self-assembly of the Archimedean tilings from polygonal nanoplates. The Archimedean tilings represent a model set of target patterns that (i) contain both simple and complex patterns, (ii) are comprised of simple regular shapes, and (iii) contain patterns with potentially interesting materials properties. Via Monte Carlo simulations, we propose a set of design rules with general applicability to one- and two-component systems of polygons. These design rules, specified by increasing levels of patchiness, correspond to a reduced set of anisotropy dimensions for robust self-assembly ...
Evaluation of Coagulation after Extracorporeal Circulation with Sonoclot Analyzer

OBJECTIVE To evaluate coagulation function after extracorporeal circulation(ECC) with Sonoclot analyzer in open heart surgery.METHODS 20 patients were studied with activated clotting time(ACT) assay and Sonoclot analyzer before and after ECC.RESULTS ACT and Sonoclot values were in normal level preoperatively.After ECC,gbACT was significantly increased(P=0.009) compared to the value before anesthesia,clot rate(CR) was significantly lower(P=0.01) than that preoperatively,platelet function(PF) was slightly decreased(P=0.50),and ACT was slightly increased(P=0.27).CONCLUSION Sonoclot analyzer is able to diagnose early coagulation dysfunction after ECC.It's more sensitive than ACT.
Questioning the peremptory status of the prohibition of the use of force

Introduction 215 I. Identifying a Peremptory Norm 219 II. The Majority View: The Prohibition as Peremptory ..... 220 III. The Suitability of the Prohibition as a Peremptory Norm 225 A. The Problem of the Prohibition of the Threat of Force...... 225 B. The Problem of the Exceptions to the Prohibition 229 C. The Problem of the Development of the Law on the Use of Force 236 IV. The Acceptance of the Prohibition as a Peremptory Norm by States 241 A. The General Lack of Reference to State Practice in the Literature 242 B. The Nature of the State Practice Required for a Norm to Gain Peremptory Status 243 C. A Brief Survey of State Acceptance of the Prohibition as Peremptory in Practice 245 D. The Implications of the Sporadic State Acceptance of the Prohibition as Peremptory 252 Conclusion 255
Mechanisms of ventricular fibrillation during hypothermia. Relative changes in myocardial refractory period and conduction velocity.

Summary Experimental studies of the effect of hypothermia on myocardial refractory period and conduction time during induced hypothermia have been performed. The following observations were made. 1. There was progressive and proportionate increase in refractory period and conduction time down to approximately 20° C. 2. At temperatures below 25° C., there was progressive impairment of conduction with development of partial and, subsequently, complete atrioventricular block with multifocal ectopic beats. 3. On the basis of these observations, it is felt that hypothermic ventricular fibrillation cannot be explained by disproportionate changes in conduction time and refractory period leading to re-entry of the impulse. This tends to refute the circus movement theory of fibrillation during hypothermia. 4. It is believed that hypothermic fibrillation at temperatures below approximately 25° C. is primarily a result of progressive interference with conduction, resulting in cessation of normal coordinated myocardial activation.
Corollary Network Principles

This chapter presents eight network principles that are corollary to, explained by, the first four network principles that form the explanatory nucleus of the proposed Bio↔Psychology Network Theory described in Chapter 3 . Principle 5 concerns priming. Repetition, semantic, lexical, emotional, affective, cultural, and other forms of priming are discussed. Principle 6 concerns part-whole pattern completion. It entails the ability to create a more complete gestalt from partial cues. Principle 7 pertains to people’s tendency to prefer consonance and avoid dissonance. Evidence from social and political science is presented. Personal choice as a constraint satisfaction process is considered. Principle 8 concerns the therapeutic application of dissonance induction and reduction. This principle explains why all effective therapies, regardless of their theoretical origin, work. Principle 9 reveals that memories are superimposed on the same neural networks rather than stored in different places as classic information processing theories maintain. Principle 10 concerns neural networks for prototypes and explains how people can respond more strongly to a prototype that their brain extracted than to any of the training stimuli. Principle 11 explains that the graceful degradation that occurs when real neural networks are damaged stems from their parallel-distributed architecture. Principle 12 discusses the interaction of top-down and bottom-up processing in the formation of internal working models and prospections regarding future events.
Effects of activation method and mental effort on touchscreen task performance for users with and without upper extremity motor control disabilities

The rise in popularity of touchscreens supports the need for improving the usability and accessibility of the technology for users with varying abilities. Touchscreen activation methods (tapping, take-off) can help address these issues but may have trade-offs (longer time to complete task). This study evaluated tapping and take-off touchscreen activation methods during a multi-item selection activity. Participants with (n = 10) and without (n = 10) motor control disabilities affecting upper extremity function (+MCD and źMCD, respectively) completed an experimental task to select four items from a list using either tapping or take-off activation with two different levels of mental effort (memorization vs. no memorization). Fewer errors (29 vs. 21 %, p = .018) but longer task completion times (14.3 vs. 9.04 s, p = .007) were observed for take-off vs. tapping. Error rate doubled for memorization compared to no memorization (33.5 vs. 16.5 %, p = .002). Both +MCD and źMCD groups had fewer errors using the take-off method, but tapping was preferred, had fewer misses and required less task completion time during a menu selection activity. For tablet touchscreen menu selection applications for individuals with and without upper extremity motor control disabilities, take-off activation method is more accurate than tapping though tapping is preferred, has fewer misses and requires less task completion time. Additional mental demand leads to an increase in the number of errors during touchscreen operation.
Treating idiopathic hypertrophic pyloric stenosis with sequential therapy: A clinical study.

AIM The aim of this study was to explore the efficacy and safety of treating idiopathic hypertrophic pyloric stenosis with sequential therapy (ST). METHODS From January 2010 to June 2013, 49 children with idiopathic hypertrophic pyloric stenosis were divided into two groups to accept either atropine ST (ST group, n = 26) or laparoscopic surgery (operation group, n = 23). The remission rate of vomiting, complications, hospital stay and medical expenditure were compared between the two groups. The body weight and the thickness of the pyloric muscle at 6 months after the treatments were also compared. RESULTS The remission rate of vomiting was lower in the ST group (88.5%; 23/26) than in the operation group (100%, 23/23). The difference in the incidence rate of complications, body weight and pyloric muscle thickness was not statistically significant between the two groups. However, the hospital stay was significantly longer, while the medical expenditure was significantly lower in the ST group than in the operation group. CONCLUSIONS Atropine ST is safe, effective and cost-effective as compared with operation; however, the efficacy of ST is lower than operation.
An M-estimator for reduced-rank system identification

The proposed model generalizes the traditional linear dynamical system model.An efficient algorithm is designed for parameter estimation.The model works very well on high-dimensional neuro-imaging data.It is also a standard tool for big time-series data analysis in many domains. High-dimensional time-series data from a wide variety of domains, such as neuroscience, are being generated every day. Fitting statistical models to such data, to enable parameter estimation and time-series prediction, is an important computational primitive. Existing methods, however, are unable to cope with the high-dimensional nature of these data, due to both computational and statistical reasons. We mitigate both kinds of issues by proposing an M-estimator for Reduced-rank System IDentification (Mr. Sid). A combination of low-rank approximations, 1 and 2 penalties, and some numerical linear algebra tricks, yields an estimator that is computationally efficient and numerically stable. Simulations and real data examples demonstrate the usefulness of this approach in a variety of problems. In particular, we demonstrate that Mr. Sidcan accurately estimate spatial filters, connectivity graphs, and time-courses from native resolution functional magnetic resonance imaging data. Mr. Sidtherefore enables big time-series data to be analyzed using standard methods, readying the field for further generalizations including nonlinear and non-Gaussian state-space models.