cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Student Reactions to the Field Consulting Capstone Course in Operations Management at the University of Dayton

The University of Dayton's operations management major offers a unique capstone opportunity for students to apply theory in a live consulting project that addresses real problems of live clients. Projects require students to apply a broad spectrum of skills learned in the major, including, but not limited to, optimization, simulation, and statistical analysis, and apply techniques from business improvement programs such as lean, Six Sigma, and reengineering. As a result, students gain valuable experience applying technical skills in a live environment. This paper, a companion to The University of Dayton Operations Management Capstone Course: Undergraduate Student Field Consulting Applies Theory to Practice, which explores client reactions, presents the student perspectives on the risks and benefits of a course based on field consulting projects. Quantitative and qualitative student reaction to the course are reported from three sources: course evaluations at the time it was taken, a retrospective of the four-year experience upon graduation, and a survey that captures graduate reflections on the course up to seven years after completion of the course. Despite the inherent risks of offering a capstone based on field work, students find the experience both of tremendous practical value and of high academic rigor.
CASTRATION OF FISH IN THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY.

Abstract Evidence is presented that the castration of fish was performed in England as early as the eighteenth century.
Decreased expression of the C3b/C4b receptor (CR1) and the C3d receptor (CR2) on B lymphocytes and of CR1 on neutrophils of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Decreased numbers of complement receptor type 1 (CR1) have been observed on erythrocytes of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and on glomerular podocytes of patients having proliferative nephritis of SLE. In the present study, the analysis of the cellular expression of CR1 has been extended to include leukocytes. In addition, expression by B lymphocytes of the C3d receptor (CR2), which also serves as the receptor for the Epstein-Barr virus, was assessed. Receptor expression was measured by 2-color fluorescent flow cytometry of peripheral blood B cells, identified by the presence of the B1 antigen, that had also been stained with anti-CR1 or anti-CR2. B cells from 17 patients with SLE exhibited a mean relative fluorescence for CR1 that was 61% of that found in 17 normal individuals (P less than 0.001). The expression of CR2 by the patients' B cells (n = 14) was 62% of that of the B cells from normal subjects (n = 17) (P less than 0.001). The expression of CR1 correlated with that of CR2 among patients (r = 0.63; P less than 0.01) but not with the expression of CR2 among normal individuals (r = 0.36; P greater than 0.1). The mean CR1 content of the patients' neutrophils was only 59% of the normal mean (P less than 0.001). Thus, abnormalities of complement receptor expression occur on the leukocytes of patients with SLE. These deficiencies may be secondary to interaction of the cells with the products of complement activation, or, in some individuals, the deficiencies may be familial.
Modified plasma-based ecarin clotting time assay for monitoring of recombinant hirudin during cardiac surgery.

Recombinant hirudin (r-hirudin) is being used increasingly for therapeutic anticoagulation in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia undergoing cardiovascular surgery. Although multiple laboratory methods are available for measuring r-hirudin, the ecarin clotting time (ECT) is the most commonly used for this purpose. Ecarin (extracted from snake venom) converts prothrombin to meizothrombin, which promotes clot formation. Direct thrombin inhibitors, like r-hirudin, bind meizothrombin and yield a linear, dose-dependent prolongation of ECT. Low levels of prothrombin and fibrinogen in plasma samples can lead to higher ECT, suggesting falsely elevated r-hirudin levels. A modified ECT assay with prothrombin and fibrinogen in excess was optimized using an orthogonal array method to eliminate the variations in patients’ plasma prothrombin and/or fibrinogen levels for accurate determinations of plasma r-hirudin levels. By using the modified ECT assay, falsely elevated r-hirudin levels can be avoided in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass, thus providing reliable and accurate r-hirudin monitoring in this clinical setting.
Successful use of bivalirudin for superior vena cava recanalization and stent placement in a child with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a potentially life-threatening, adverse effect of heparin therapy. Patients with this complication require an alternative approach to anticoagulation. Bivalirudin is a direct thrombin inhibitor with an efficacy comparable to that of heparin, a short half-life, and reduced bleeding complications in adults. We present the case of a 2-year-old boy with HIT Type II who underwent recanalization of an occluded superior vena cava and stent placement, utilizing bivalirudin as anticoagulant.
Simplication of the manufacture of Schiff reagent for use in histochemical procedures.

Schiff reagent may be made by simply adding 1 g. fuchsin, 1.9 g. sodium metabisulfite to 100 ml. 0.15 N hydrochloric acid, shaking at intervals or mechanically for 2 hours, decolorizing with charcoal and filtering.To obtain perfectly colorless Schiff reagent, it is necessary that fresh activated charcoal be used. If the final product is not water white, a fresh sample of activated charcoal should be obtained, and the product retreated and refiltered.Schiff reagent precipitates a white crystalline substance after varying periods of cold storage, apparently a polymer which can be partly depolymerized by boiling and reconstituted into a Schiff reagent. The reconstituted reagent rather promptly precipitates again. Hence reconstitution is impractical and preparation of fresh batches at intervals of 2-3 weeks is recommended.
Classroom study on noticing and recast features: Capturing learner noticing with uptake and stimulated recall

Abstract Research has shown that various features of recasts, such as length, intonation, and linguistic target, influence learners’ ability to notice the recasts. Noticing has typically been measured using a performance (e.g., uptake) or introspective (e.g., stimulated recall) measure, however, little research has examined how these measures compare in their effectiveness in capturing learner noticing. The current study investigated the extent to which uptake and stimulated recall may capture learners’ noticing of recasts, and the relationship between recast features (length, form, number of changes, intonation, error type, and directness) and learners’ noticing in the form of verbal reporting and of uptake. Twenty-five ESL learners participated in teacher-fronted classroom interactions, which were immediately followed by a stimulated recall interview. During the interview, learners reported their thoughts at the time of interaction while watching recast episodes that occurred during the interaction. The results indicated that the rate of noticing was substantially higher when it was measured by stimulated recall than when was measured by uptake. When noticing was measured by stimulated recall, recasts with rising intonation were the only significant predictor of learners’ noticing.
A writing-intensive, methods-based laboratory course for undergraduates.

Engaging undergraduate students in designing and executing original research should not only be accompanied by technique training but also intentional instruction in the critical analysis and writing of scientific literature. The course described here takes a rigorous approach to scientific reading and writing using primary literature as the model while simultaneously integrating laboratory instruction on basic enzyme purification and characterization, followed by 6 weeks of laboratory dedicated to student-designed original research projects. In the preparation and execution of their original projects, students engage in analysis of the primary literature, proposal writing, peer review, manuscript preparation, and oral presentation. The result is a comprehensive and challenging course that teaches third- and fourth-year undergraduates what it means to “think and work like a scientist.” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education Vol. 39, No. 3, pp. 196–203, 2011
To cure chronic HIV infection, a new therapeutic strategy is needed

With the advent of highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) in 1997, most investigators felt that HIV infection would be cured with a few years of antiviral therapy. It is now clear that antiviral drugs alone cannot cure the infection, even when applied within a few weeks of initial symptoms. There are now several reports of the discontinuation of HAART after several years of effective suppression of detectable plasma virus. Relapse occurs universally within a few weeks. More promising results have been reported if HAART is initiated early after infection. However, even in this instance, most patients suffer a relapse within a few weeks. If diagnostic treatment interruptions are performed, some individuals appear to control plasma virus concentrations at low levels — <5000 HIV RNA molecules/ml. We have similar results from subjects who were infected chronically before HAART was initiated, so that it is clear that the previous dogma that HIV-specific immune reactivity is absent in individuals who are chronically infected is incorrect. Immune reactivity to HIV does exist, and is detectable in vivo, even when the infection becomes chronic before therapy is initiated. Consequently, we are now faced with a new therapeutic dilemma: how can a cure of this infection be achieved? This review is focused on the rationale and methods to design clinical trials directed towards achieving a cure of HIV infection.
Out of time: colonial history in Ibrahim Nasrallah’s Time of White Horses

In its broadest contours, this article seeks to foreground the importance of colonial history in postcolonial approaches to Palestine. After demonstrating that the hegemonic reading of the Nakba by the Israeli “New Historians” has largely obscured the teleology of Zionist settler-colonialism, it argues that postcolonial studies must follow Palestinian historiography in drawing on oral history to counter such narrative erasure. It then turns to Palestinian historical fiction and explores the functioning of orality in literary counter-narratives of the Nakba. It focuses on Ibrahim Nasrallah’s Time of White Horses (2007; trans. 2012), a historical novel which seeks to resolve the “symbolic problem” of the invisibility of the Nakba in global culture. By directly transcribing oral testimonies in its narrative of the destruction of Palestinian society under colonialism, this novel becomes riven between mythic and historical registers. Nasrallah’s attempt to produce Palestinian historical fiction as form thus re...
Pregnancy and birth history influence women's experience of menopause.

Objective: The determinants of experiencing menopausal symptoms are complex, representing biological, psychological, and social factors. We report the impact of one such factor, fertility, on the experience of menopausal symptoms. We hypothesize that nulliparous women will have more dissatisfaction with childbearing choices and more negative attitudes toward menopause but will experience fewer menopausal symptoms. Design: Women aged 40 to 65 years were recruited from a single internal medicine practice to participate in a 5-year longitudinal study of the impact of menopause on health-related quality of life. Women completed questionnaires including the RAND-36, attitudes toward menopause, menopausal symptoms, and fertility and childbearing. Based on self-reported pregnancy and birth history, we categorized women as parous (one or more live births), nulligravida (no pregnancies or births), and nulliparous (one or more pregnancies and no live births). Categorical variables were analyzed using univariable and multivariable ordered logistic and logistic regression. Continuous variables were analyzed using Student's t test and multivariable linear regression techniques. Results: The 728 participants were, on average, 50.8 years old with 2.4 pregnancies and 1.7 live births. Compared with parous women, nulligravida and nulliparous women were more likely to report being very dissatisfied with childbearing choices (odds ratio [OR] [95% CI]: 3.3 [2.3-4.6] and 4.0 [2.5-6.4], respectively). Nulliparous, but not nulligravida, women expressed more negative attitudes toward menopause compared with parous women (P < 0.001). Nulligravida and nulliparous women were half as likely to report hot flashes as parous women (OR [95% CI]: 0.6 [0.4-0.9] and 0.5 [0.3-0.9], respectively). Compared with parous women, nulligravida women were less likely to report vaginal dryness (OR [95% CI]: 0.5 [0.3-0.7]). Conclusions: Our study examined the impact of pregnancy and birth history on menopausal symptoms, and the findings support the hypothesis that women who experience infertility may find menopause to be a time of normalcy and experience fewer hot flashes. Both physiologic and psychosocial mechanisms deserve further study.
Development on Preparation of Mullite and its Composites from Fly Ash

The latest development on preparation of mullite, mullite-corundum and mullite-zirconia materials using fly ash by reaction sintering process was reviewed. The future development of mullite and its composites synthesized from fly ash was prospected.
In Vivo Interactions Between Cobalt or Ferric Compounds and the Pools of Sulphide in the Blood During and After H2S Poisoning

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S), a chemical hazard in oil and gas production, has recently become a dreadful method of suicide, posing specific risks and challenges for the first responders. Currently, there is no proven effective treatment against H2S poisoning and its severe neurological, respiratory or cardiac after-effects. We have recently described that H2S is present in various compartments, or pools, in the body during sulphide exposure, which have different levels of toxicity. The general goals of our study were to (1) determine the concentrations and kinetics of the various pools of hydrogen sulphide in the blood, i.e., gaseous (CgH2S) versus total sulphide, i.e., reacting with monobromobimane (CMBBH2S), during and following H2S exposure in a small and large mammal and (2) establish the interaction between the pools of H2S and a methemoglobin (MetHb) solution or a high dose of hydroxocobalamin (HyCo). We found that CgH2S during and following H2S infusion was similar in sedated sheep and rats at any given rate of infusion/kg and provoked symptoms, i.e., hyperpnea and apnea, at the same CgH2S. After H2S administration was stopped, CgH2S disappeared within 1 min. CMBBH2S also dropped to 2–3μM, but remained above baseline levels for at least 30 min. Infusion of a MetHb solution during H2S infusion produced an immediate reduction in the free/soluble pool of H2S only, whereas CMBBH2S increased by severalfold. HyCo (70 mg/kg) also decreased the concentrations of free/soluble H2S to almost zero; CgH2S returned to pre-HyCo levels within a maximum of 20 min, if H2S infusion is maintained. These results are discussed in the context of a relevant scenario, wherein antidotes can only be administered after H2S exposure.
Controversies in the Care of the Enterocutaneous Fistula

Enterocutaneous fistula and its variations are some of the most difficult problems encountered in the practice of general surgery. Reliable evidence that can be used to direct the care of patients afflicted with this malady is limited. There are controversies in several areas of care. This article addresses some of the gray areas of care for the patient with enterocutaneous fistula. There is particular attention directed toward the phenomenon of enteroatmospheric fistula, as well as prevention and abdominal wall reconstruction, which is often required in these individuals.
Hope, optimism, and self-care among Better Breathers Support Group members with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The objective of this study was to determine the levels of hope, optimism, and self-care of persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who attend community-based Better Breathers Support Group (BBSG) meetings. A convenience sample of 68 BBSG members from 14 groups in three southeastern states participated. The data were collected with a questionnaire set composed of a demographic form and three previously tested research instruments: the Herth Hope Index (HHI), the Alberto Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Self-care Behavior Inventory (COPDSC), and the Life Orientation Test--Revised (LOT-R). The findings (n = 68) include a significant and positive relationship between the HHI and COPDSC (r = .39; p > .01), between the LOT-R and COPDSC (r = .41; p > .001), and between the LOT-R and HHI (r = .59; p > .001). So, those participants with higher Hope and Optimism have higher levels of Self-care. We concluded the participants were fairly optimistic (LOT-R average = 23.75+/-4.49) and hopeful (HHI average 39.47+/-5.61). The average score on the COPDSC was 141.57 (+/-14.76) indicating a high level of self-care.
The record in the meteorites—IV: Origin of diamonds in iron meteorites

Abstract A number of diamond-bearing Canyon Diablo specimens have been investigated in order to determine whether the diamonds were produced under high gravitational pressures in a meteorite parent body, or upon impact with the earth, as proposed by Urey and Nininger . respectively. Metallographic studies confirm Nininger's observation that the diamond-bearing fragments, and only these, were reheated strongly after the formation of the Widmanstatten pattern. The metal phase appears to have been reheated to ~950°C for 1–5 sec, followed by cooling in less than 2 min. The rapid cooling rate implies that the process took place after the meteorite fragments had attained their present, small size. Thermodynamic calculations and structural studies indicate that cohenite (Fe3C), rather than graphite is the likely precursor of diamonds in iron meteorites. This fact severely limits the possible range of conditions for diamond formation. The diamonds are always associated with troilite. which shows signs of having been heated to much higher temperatures than the metal, suggesting that the heating took place by a shock wave upon impact with the earth. The growth of diamonds must have occurred on cooling or pressure drop, but it is not yet clear whether high pressures (e.g. from the compression during impact shock, or localized stresses) were at all required, or whether the diamonds formed as a metastable product at moderate to low pressures. Possible origins of diamonds in other meteorites are discussed. It is shown that in the presence of free iron, formation under high gravitational pressures could take place only under very extraordinary circumstances. Instead, it is considered much more likely that all meteoritic diamonds were produced by catastrophic events: either upon impact with the earth, or during the breakup of the meteorite parent bodies. This mode of origin obviates the need for postulating meteorite parent bodies of lunar or planetary size, with interior pressures of 3 × 104 atm or greater. The laboratory formation of diamond is discussed in terms of metal carbide dissociation equilibria, and several features of the General Electric process arc explained in this manner. Some comments are offered on Moissan's experiments.
Demand elasticities, asymmetry and strategic trade policy

Abstract This paper shows that demand elasticities and cost asymmetry are important determinants of strategic trade policy. In the symmetric case, the direction of intervention is critically dependent upon the elasticity of demand. Under unit elastic demand, free trade is optimal under symmetry, and a subsidy (tax) is optimal if the exporting firm has lower (higher) marginal cost than its competitor. If both the exporting governments intervene, then the conventional result that the lower cost firm gets the higher subsidy is reversed for inelastic demand. However, such an equilibrium is unstable in policy space.
Photorefractive keratectomy to treat myopia and astigmatism after radial keratotomy and penetrating keratoplasty

Abstract Fifteen eyes with an initial myopia between −5.00 diopters (D) and −12.00 D were treated with radial keratotomy (RK) followed by photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) at least 6 months later and observed for 6 months to 24 months. Five eyes that had penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) were treated for residual ametropia by PRK and followed for up to two years. For the RK-treated eyes, mean pre-PRK refraction was −4.00 D sphere and +1.25 D cylinder, which improved to −0.52 D sphere and +0.73 D cylinder. Incidence of complications, including corneal haze, was extremely low in both the RK and PKP groups. In summary, PRK is a valuable method for correcting ametropia following RK and PKP, with risks similar to that for eyes having PRK as the initial refractive procedure.
Analysis of the relationship between switching frequency and sub-module capacitor unbalanced voltage for a modular multilevel converter

With voltage-balancing control, the voltage difference among sub-module (SM) capacitors in a modular multilevel converter can be reduced. However, this comes at the cost of increased device switching frequency. In this paper, the relationship between the switching frequency and SM capacitor unbalanced voltage is investigated. As the relationship depends on the voltage-balancing control schemes, a popular scheme using a modified sorting method is considered. The switching frequency is found to be inversely proportional to the SM capacitor unbalanced voltage due to the voltage-balancing control and an analytical relationship is derived for the first time. As the SM capacitors voltage-unbalance increases the voltage fluctuation for each SM, the impact of switching frequency on the SM capacitance design is further investigated. The developed analytical relationship can thus be used for the SM capacitance design. Finally, the theoretical analysis is verified by simulation.
Studies on the electron-transport system. XLVI. On the modification of the properties of cytochrome b.

Abstract The oxidation-reduction potential of purified cytochrome b has been determined. At pH 7.0 the E ′ 0 is −0.34 V. This potential can be raised significantly by formation of a complex between the cytochrome b and mitochondrial structural protein. The cytochrome b -structural protein complex is a monomeric species, soluble at neutral pH. Reduction of the cytochrome enhances the rate and extent of formation of the complex. The implications of these observations are discussed.
Consolidation and universal banking

Abstract Banks in the US have been competing with investment banks through newly created “Section 20” subsidiaries. The evidence to date suggests that banks entry into securities activities via these subsidiaries has been pro-competitive. Recently, however, banks have been allowed to enter securities activities via acquisitions. This may not result in the same competitive effects as “new bank” entry.
Human lingual atherosclerosis

Abstract The human lingual arteries are highly susceptible to the development of atherosclerosis. A histologic study of 75 human tongues, ranging in age from 3 days to 81 yr, revealed that 92.0 per cent had microscopic markers of atherosclerosis in the sections examined. There were no significant sex or race differences in vulnerability in this sampling. Lesions were found as early as 22 days postnatally and increased in incidence and severity with increasing age. All were remarkably free of haemorrhagic, ulcerative or thrombotic complications.
ExHFT for fourth generation heat transfer technology

This review paper considers the many techniques that have been developed to enhance convective heat transfer. A summary is given of the techniques that are effective for the various modes of heat transfer. Of particular interest currently is compound enhancement that involves the simultaneous application of several techniques, so as to produce an enhancement that is larger than the individual techniques operating separately. This is considered fourth generation heat transfer technology. To realize this, there are many experimental challenges to be overcome that relate to obtaining and applying data.
Leukemia-associated AML1/ETO (8;21) chromosomal translocation protein increases the cellular representation of PML bodies.

Promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies are important components of nuclear architecture that are functionally linked to aberrant gene expression and disease. To understand the mechanisms that modify subnuclear distribution and regulatory activities of PML domains in leukemia, we performed immunofluorescence microscopy with a panel of normal diploid cells and established cell lines. We analyzed the representation and intranuclear distribution of PML domains. We find that multiple biological parameters contribute to heterogeneity in the subnuclear organization of PML domains in a broad spectrum of cell types. The subnuclear organization of PML domains was also evaluated following transient transfection with a series of vectors expressing normal hematopoietic and leukemia-related transcription factors. Our results show that expression of a chimeric transcription factor encoded by the tumor related chromosomal translocation (8;21) involving the AML1 and ETO loci is sufficient to cause reorganization of PML domains. This finding increases our understanding of the mechanisms by which the AML1/ETO protein may contribute to modified gene expression linked to the onset and progression of t(8;21) related acute myelogenous leukemia.
P-92: Thermal-Optical Simulations on ColorQuad™ for Image Quality

This article presents a methodology on the analysis of the thermal effects in the ColorQuad™ for the image quality. ColorQuad™ is one of the most promising optical components in the projection display system. Various types of thermal effects might occur in optical system. ITRI/OES is developing a study methodology that combines different kinds of commercial software (ASAP™ FlowTherm™ and ANSYS™). The ability to simulate the multi-physics phenomena is important to the analysis of the image quality for various optical components. This simulation indicates that the cooling system will cause depolarization of the light in the first PBS, which will degrade the contrast ratio of the system.
Finding the Graph with the Maximum Number of Spanning Trees

Abstract The problem is to determine the linear graph that has the maximum number of spanning trees, where only the number of nodes N and the number of branches B are prescribed. We deal with connected graphs G ( N , B ) obtained by deleting D branches from a complete graph K N . Our solution is for D less than or equal to N
Load redistribution considerations in the fracture of ceramic matrix composites

Using a macroscopic viewpoint, composite laminae are homogeneous orthotropic solids whose directional strengths are random variables. Incorporation of these random variable strengths into failure models, either interactive or noninteractive, allows for the evaluation of the lamina reliability under a given stress state. Using a noninteractive criterion for demonstration purposes, laminate reliabilities are calculated assuming previously established load sharing rules for the redistribution of load as the failure of laminae occur. The matrix cracking predicted by ACK theory is modeled to allow a loss of stiffness in the fiber direction. The subsequent failure in the fiber direction is controlled by a modified bundle theory. Results are compared with previous models which did not permit separate consideration of matrix cracking, as well as to results obtained from experimental data. The effects of variations from the ideal physical geometry which is normally used to depict the matrix cracking are also studied.
Quantum Theory of Surface Energy and Tension

The surface energy ${E}_{S}$ of a system of interacting particles is ${E}_{S}=\ensuremath{\int}{\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\infty}}^{\ensuremath{\infty}}dz{\ensuremath{\epsilon}(z)\ensuremath{-}{\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{B}[\frac{\ensuremath{\rho}(z)}{{\ensuremath{\rho}}_{B}}]}$, where $\ensuremath{\epsilon}(z)$ and $\ensuremath{\rho}(z)$ are the energy and particle densities along the axis normal to the surface. ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{B}$ and ${\ensuremath{\rho}}_{B}$ are the corresponding quantities in the bulk. Alternatively one may formulate an exact expression for the surface tension defined as $\ensuremath{\gamma}={(\frac{\ensuremath{\partial}F}{\ensuremath{\partial}S})}_{V}$, with the result that $\ensuremath{\gamma}=\ensuremath{\int}{\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\infty}}^{\ensuremath{\infty}}\mathrm{dz}\left\{2[{t}_{z}(z)\ensuremath{-}{t}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}(z)]+\frac{1}{4}\ensuremath{\int}d\mathrm{r}({r}^{2}\ensuremath{-}3{{r}_{z}}^{2})\frac{1}{r}\frac{\mathrm{dv}}{\mathrm{dr}}{\ensuremath{\rho}}^{(2)}(z, z+{r}_{z})\right\}.$ ${t}_{i}(z)$ are the components of the average kinetic energy density and ${\ensuremath{\rho}}^{(2)}({r}_{1}, {r}_{2})$ is the pair distribution function. In the ground state $\ensuremath{\gamma}={E}_{S}$. We have applied these formulas to liquid ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ and ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$ assuming that ${\ensuremath{\rho}}^{(2)}=\ensuremath{\rho}(z)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\ensuremath{\rho}(z+{r}_{z}){g}_{B}(r)$. The bulk radial distribution ${g}_{B}(r)$ is obtained from x-ray data. Use of the thermodynamic data ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{B}$ and $p=0$ gives ${t}_{B}$ and checks ${g}_{B}(r)$. Further we assume a free-volume form of the kinetic energy density $t(z)={t}_{B}{[\frac{\ensuremath{\rho}(z)}{{\ensuremath{\rho}}_{B}}]}^{\frac{5}{3}}$ and an exponential density fall-off $\ensuremath{\rho}(z)={\ensuremath{\rho}}_{B}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}\frac{z}{a}}$. Calculated values of ${E}_{S}$ show a minimum at $a=2.0\mathrm{A}$. ${E}_{S}$ and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ differ by 20% at this value, with $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ being 0.38 erg/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$ for ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$. The experimental value of $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ is 0.35 erg/${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$.
Primordial129Xe in meteorites

Abstract Xenon isotopic analyses by stepwise heating are presented for two neutron-irradiated chondrites, Arapahoe (L5) and Bjurbole (L4). The iodine-xenon formation age of Arapahoe is the oldest yet observed, 9.9 ± 0.8 m.y. before that of Bjurbole. It is thus unlikely that younger ages found in carbonaceous chondrite magnetite record the condensation of the solar nebula. The composition of trapped xenon in Arapahoe is normal except for a deficiency of129Xe, where we infer 129/Xe132Xe= 0.56 ∓ 0.04, well below the apparent primordial solar system value. This need not conflict with higher values in other metamorphosed meteorites since growth of129Xe from decay of129I in xenon-depleted environments can be substantial. The contrast with apparent average solar system composition cannot be easily explained, however, since there is no way to generate one composition from the other. The simplest way to achieve low129Xe seems to be to suppose that before decay to129Xe r-process production at mass 129 condensed into dust as129I, and that Arapahoe's parent body formed in a region of the solar system substantially depleted of this dust before any isotopic homogenization by vaporization of the remaining dust. Arapahoe is not unique in having trapped129Xe-deficient xenon, nor in any other respect yet observed, so some such history evidently characterizes major groups of meteorites.
Gamma knife surgery for brainstem arteriovenous malformations.

Objective To evaluate the long-term imaging and clinical outcomes of patients with brainstem arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) treated with Gamma Knife surgery (GKS). Methods The study included 85 patients with brainstem AVMs undergoing GKS during the period 1989–2007. The locations of the nidi were the midbrain in 42 patients, pons in 31 patients, and medulla oblongata in 12 patients. The volume of the nidi ranged from 0.1–8.9 mL (median 1.4 mL, mean 1.9 mL), and the prescription dose ranged from 5–32 Gy (median 20 Gy, mean 19.9 Gy). After the initial Gamma procedure, 18 patients had repeat GKS for AVM residuals that were still patent. Two patients had a third GKS 7 years and 16 years after a failed repeat GKS. Clinical follow-up ranged from 24–252 months with a mean of 100 months (median 102 months) after the initial GKS. Results GKS yielded a total angiographic obliteration in 50 (58.8%) patients and subtotal obliteration in 4 (4.7%) patients. In 22 (25.9%) patients, the AVMs remained patent. In 9 patients (10.6%), no flow voids were observed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but angiographic confirmation was unavailable. A small nidus volume and a high prescription dose were significantly associated with increased AVM obliteration rate. Radiation-induced changes developed in 34 patients (40%); 24 were asymptomatic, 1 patient had only headache, and 9 patients developed neurologic deficits. One patient developed a large cyst 6 years after GKS. Conclusions Given the poor surgical outcome of brainstem AVMs, the results of 59% nidus obliteration and 6% permanent neurologic deficits make GKS a reasonable management of these difficult lesions.
Introduction to New Directions in Software Assurance Minitrack

Many companies are struggling with how to assure their software products and processes in an effective manner. Traditional software assurance is often required on large software intensive projects but is typically kept to a minimum level of support because of a perceived lack of value. This perceived lack of value is increasing in spite of software becoming an increasing source of risk not only for large aerospace and defense projects but also in the automotive industry whose most sophisticated vehicles have well over a million lines of code. Part of the issue is that current practices of software assurance are being driven by tradition (e.g. “do what has been done before”) or institutional requirements (e.g. “do what is needed to satisfy policy or regulations), which are increasingly inadequate in providing effective software assurance activities and definitely inadequate in rationalizing its value added to a project. As part of the focus on software process improvement, various new approaches for improving the quality and acceptance of software assurance that do not rely on these drivers are being considered. At the same time there are other areas where assurance activities are being applied but as performed by the engineering organizations as part of the way they do their work and not being performed by an independent assurance organization. This minitrack has four papers looking at different ways to apply and improve how software assurance activities are conducted. The first two papers look at how to improve software assurance as performed by the software assurance organizations and the last two look at how to apply software assurance methods outside the software assurance organizations.
Kinetic analysis of lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells: lytic parameters and determination of LAK cell frequency.

Kinetic analysis was used to define lytic events in murine lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cell-mediated tumour cell lysis. The maximum rate of target cell lysis (Vmax) and Km (target cell number resulting in 1/2 Vmax) were determined. Single cell lytic assays demonstrated that only LAK effector cells bound to target cells (i.e. non-lytic, bystander lymphocytes did not influence the determination of kinetic parameters) in contrast to natural killer (NK) cell lysis. This finding allowed for LAK cell frequency determinations where Km approximates the concentration of lytic LAK effector cells within a given number of lymphocytes. Frequencies determined in this manner were not significantly different from those obtained using the more cumbersome single cell lytic assay. Furthermore, frequencies determined for the same lymphocyte population against four different NK-resistant tumour targets, that varied in their sensitivity to LAK cell lysis, were not significantly different. In addition, LAK cell lytic programming of target cells was found to be the rate limiting lytic event. This study provides a means of determining reliable estimates of LAK cell frequencies within a lymphocyte population, which will be useful in studies evaluating LAK cytolytic mechanisms and the effects of drugs, biological response modifiers, or disease states on LAK cell lytic activity.
Somatostatin Receptor-mediated Signaling in Smooth Muscle ACTIVATION OF PHOSPHOLIPASE C-β3 BY Gβγ AND INHIBITION OF ADENYLYL CYCLASE BY Gαi1 AND Gαo

In COS-7 cells, all five cloned somatostatin receptors are coupled via inhibitory G proteins to activation of an unidentified phospholipase C-β (PLC-β) isozyme and inhibition of adenylyl cyclase. In the present study, intestinal smooth muscle cells (SMC) that express only one receptor type, sstr3, and possess a full complement of G proteins and PLC-β isozymes were used to identify the PLC-β isozyme and the G proteins coupled to it and to adenylyl cyclase. Somatostatin-14 bound with high affinity to intestinal SMC; stimulated -myo-inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) formation, Ca2+ release, and contraction; and inhibited forskolin-stimulated cAMP formation in a pertussis toxin-sensitive fashion. Somatostatin also stimulated phosphoinositide hydrolysis in plasma membranes. Only those somatostatin analogs that shared a high affinity for sstr3 receptors elicited muscle contraction. IP3 formation, Ca2+ release, and contraction in permeabilized SMC and phosphoinositide hydrolysis in plasma membranes were inhibited (∼80%) by pretreatment with antibodies to PLC-β3 but not other PLC-β isozymes, and by antibodies to Gβ but not Gα. Inhibition of cAMP formation was partially blocked by antibody to Gαi1 or Gαo and additively blocked by a combination of both antibodies. Somatostatin-stimulated [35S]GTPγS-Gα complexes in plasma membranes were bound selectively by Gαi1 and Gαo antibodies. We conclude that in smooth muscle sstr3 is coupled to Gi1 and Go; the α subunits of both G proteins mediate inhibition of adenylyl cyclase, while the βγ subunits mediate activation of PLC-β3.
Fluidization characteristics of power-plant fly ashes and fly ash-charcoal mixtures

Abstract A fluidization test system was designed and constructed for measurement of fluidization parameters for fly ashes and fly-ash—charcoal mixtures as part of continuing research on aluminum recovery from power plant fly ash by the HiChlor process. Bituminous and sub-bituminous coal fly ashes were tested and significant differences in fluidization characteristics were observed. Fly ashes which had been mechanically collected fluidized uniformly at low air flow-rates. Electrostatically precipitated fly ashes exhibited channeling tendencies and did not fluidize. Fluidization characteristics of electrostatically collected ashes improved when pulverized charcoal was added. Fluidization of the mixtures was aided initially by a mechanical stirrer. Once fluidized, the mixtures would refluidize without stirring. Smooth fluidization and large bed expansion were observed. A fly-ash—coal mixture fluidized only after being oven-dried.
The septal social cohesiveness effect: its robustness and main determinants.

Abstract Rats prepared with lesions of the forebrain septum and placed within an open field exhibit strong tendencies to maintain contacts with each other. The expressed doubts of other workers notwithstanding, the effect is robust and enduring, as is shown by an experiment with one pair of rats and a review of past experiments. Moreover, although septal rats are fearful when alone within a field, they will actively approach cats or rabbits, which suggests that the effect is primarily a function of release of the contact-comfort motive.
Recruitment and retention of females in the STEM disciplines: The annual Girl Scout Day Camp at Baylor University

What would the demographics of typical science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs in the United States look like if the ratio of females going into those fields approached the ratio of females showing an aptitude and an affinity for STEM fields prior to puberty? The School of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS) at Baylor University, in conjunction with the student sections of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), has designed an annual girl scout day camp for brownies (ages six, seven, and eight) and Junior (ages nine, ten, and eleven) girl scouts. This paper reviews the current research on the retention of females, especially in the elementary ages, in the STEM areas; document the design and development of the annual girl scout day camp, including the multi-year rotation of badges and activities offered; as well as the feedback from the local and area girl scout councils, troop leaders, and parents. In future years we hope to be able to determine whether involvement in this type of activity has any significant effect on the recruitment of females as they approach high school and college, or the retention of current ECS females.
Work-related impairment and employment-focused rehabilitation options for individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome: A review

Background: Over the past decade, the need to measure work-related impairment of individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and develop rehabilitation programs focusing directly on employment has become increasingly clear.Aims: Evidence in the scientific literature was sought to determine the extent of work-related impairment and the efficacy of rehabilitation programs that specifically focus on issues of work-related impairment and employment.Methods: Three evidence-based medical review sources and five specialist databases were searched. English-language studies of adults with CFS published between 1 January 1966 and 15 July 2004 were included if functional or work-related impairment and employment were primary variables measured in the study.Results: Few studies of work-related impairment and work-focused rehabilitation in CFS exist. Rates of unemployment ranged from 35 – 69% and rates of job loss ranged from 26 – 89%. Work-related impairment encompassed getting out of bed, transportation to work,...
Post-fordist debate: a theoretical perspective to information technology and the firm

Abstract This article introduces a framework of theoretical arguments, broadly labeled “post-Fordism”, with which to conceptualize the role of information technology in the firm. Broadly speaking, the term “post-Fordism” refers to the emergence of a new set of organizational, economic, technological, and social configurations to replace those of “Fordist” mass production. The theoretical arguments surrounding “post-Fordism” rest upon the relationships among these constructs. The role of information technology within the post-Fordist worldview is an important one. Post-Fordist theoretical arguments are rooted in the belief that reality is historically constituted. Thus, the study of information technology in organizational settings cannot be isolated, but must embrace critical dimensions of the organization as well as of the society, industry, and nation of which it is a part. The purpose of this article is, first, to delve into the post-Fordist conceptual foundation, and second, to explore some of the emerging technologies that are consonant with the post-Fordist paradigm. While indebted to the watershed work of Piore and Sabel, following the neo-Schumpeterian analysis, we will argue, first, that technology in fact is an integral part of the structure and culture of a firm itself, and second, that the move from Fordist to post-Fordist economy represents more than simply a change in technology. This transformation represents a shift of major significance in technological, organizational, and cultural paradigms. In this transition from the Fordist to the post-Fordist world, technology has emerged as a paradigmatic force.
Long-Term Effects of Logging on African Primate Communities: a 28-Year Comparison From Kibale National Park, Uganda

If logging is to be compatible with primate conservation, primate populations must be expected to recover from the disturbance and eventually return to their former densities. Surveys conducted over 28 years were used to quantify the long-term effects of both low- and high-intensity selective logging on the den- sity of the five common primates in Kibale National Park, Uganda. The most dramatic exception to the expec- tation that primate populations will recover following logging was that group densities of Cercopithecus mitis and C. ascanius in the heavily logged area continued to decline decades after logging. Procolobus tephrosceles populations were recovering in the heavily logged areas, but the rate of increase appeared to be slow (0.005 groups/km 2 per year). Colobus guereza appeared to do well in some disturbed habitats and were found at higher group densities in the logged areas than in the unlogged area. There was no evidence of an increase in Lophocebus albigena group density in the heavily logged area since the time of logging, and there was a ten- dency for its population to be lower in heavily logged areas than in lightly logged areas. In contrast to the findings from the heavily logged area, none of the species were found at a lower group density in the lightly logged area than in the unlogged area, and group densities in this area were not changing at a statistically significant rate. The results of our study suggest that, in this region, low-intensity selective logging could be one component of conservation plans for primates; high-intensity logging, however, which is typical of most logging operations throughout Africa, is incompatible with primate conservation.
Meta-headers: Top-down networking architecture with application-specific constraints

The direction of cross-layer wireless research has been prominently bottom-up, i.e., optimizing higher layer protocols based on the characteristics of the underlying wireless communication medium. Though this approach has been essential for efficient use of scarce wireless connectivity and bandwidth, there is a recent trend for massive availability of wireless resources through initiatives such as municipal WiFi and community wireless. The key metric to optimize is becoming application utility rather than the wireless resources. This paradigm shift calls for top-down cross-layer designs in wireless protocols, where application-specific requirements can be reconciled. We introduce “meta-headers” vertically traveling across the network stack and enabling top-down optimizations in the architecture.
Performance comparisons of modified SMI and GLR algorithms

Adaptive filtering for signal detection in colored interference of unknown statistics is addressed. The detection performance of a modified version of the well-known sample matrix inversion (SMI) algorithm, called the modified SMI (MSMI), is compared with that of the generalized likelihood ratio (GLR) algorithm in colored Gaussian interference. The performance sensitivity of the MSMI and GLR in colored Weibull and log-normal interference is studied via simulation. It is found that there is almost no need to use the more complicated GLR algorithm in Gaussian interference, while in Weibull or log-normal interference the GLR should be preferable to the MSMI. >