cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sensors, Controls, and Man-Machine Interface for Advanced Teleoperation

Some advances have been made in teleoperator technology through the introduction of various sensors, computers, automation, and new man-machine interface devices and techniques for remote manipulator control. The development of dexterous articulated mechanisms, smart sensors, flexible computer controls, intelligent man-machine interfaces, and innovative system designs for advanced teleoperation is, however, far from complete, and poses many interdisciplinary challenges. This article summarizes the state of the art, gives a brief outline of the basic problems, and presents the results of teleoperator research and development at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Cardiac and systemic hemodynamic actions of the slow channel calcium blocking agent, KB-944.

Abstract 1. 1. The effects of KB-944 (10–400 μg/kg/min, i.v.), a new slow channel calcium blocking agent, on myocardial oxygen utilization, regional myocardial perfusion and hemodynamics were measured in anesthetized dogs. 2. 1. KB-944 produced significant dose-related increases in coronary blood flow and decreases in heart rate, left ventricular systolic pressure, aortic blood pressure and peripheral vascular resistance. At high doses, peak positive and negative dP/dt were both reduced and left ventricular end diastolic pressure increased. 3. 3. KB-944 reduced arterial-venous oxygen content difference across the heart while significantly increasing coronary blood flow. The pressure rate product, an index of myocardial oxygen consumption, was also reduced. KB-944 produced a uniform and dose-related increase in transmural tissue flow within the left ventricular free wall. 4. 4. These results indicate that KB-944, a new slow channel calcium blocking agent, is a potent peripheral and coronary vasodilator with negative inotropic and chronotropic properties and may be potentially useful in coronary artery disease or hypertension.
Effects of oxygenated additives on aromatic species in fuel-rich, premixed ethane combustion: A modeling study

Abstract The motivation for the work described in this paper was conflicting results from diesel engine research on the question of whether the structure of an oxygenated compound blended into diesel fuel can affect the level of reduction of particulate emissions. A constant-pressure reactor model (SENKIN) was used to investigate the effect of oxygenated additives on aromatic species, which are known to be soot precursors, in fuel-rich ethane combustion. 5% oxygen by mass of the fuel was added to ethane using dimethyl ether (DME-CH3OCH3) and ethanol (C2H5OH). A significant reduction in aromatic species relative to pure ethane was observed with the addition of both DME and ethanol, but DME was more effective in reducing aromatic species than ethanol. One reason for the greater effectiveness of DME was found to be its higher enthalpy of formation, compared to ethanol, which led to a higher final temperature. However, with initial temperatures adjusted to achieve the same final temperature for all fuels, DME was still more effective than ethanol in reducing aromatic species compared to the base case of pure ethane. A reaction flux analysis was conducted to determine the mechanism of aromatic species reduction by the oxygenated compounds and the cause of the greater effectiveness of DME.
Immunogenecity signals 1,2,3... and 0

The most critical property of the immune system is its ability to discriminate self from nonself. Failure to respond to nonself can lead to overwhelming infection, while failure in the ability not to respond to self, or self tolerance, leads to autoimmunity. A meeting held in Steamboat Springs focused on this issue under the title of ‘Immunogenicity’. This brief summary focuses on one of the key issues considered at this conference — the signals involved in the induction of lymphocyte activation. In addition, an hypothesis of immune system function that appears to follow from these findings is described.
Determining Color-Octet ψ-Production Matrix Elements from γp and ep Processes

We calculate, within the NRQCD factorization formalism, the leading color-octet contributions to ψ production in photon-nucleon and electron-nucleon collisions. The expressions we obtaine depend on the NRQCD matrix elements $\langle{\mathcal O}^\psi_8(^1S_0)\rangle$ and $\langle {\mathcal O}^\psi_8(^3P_0)\rangle$. These matrix elements can be determined by fitting to experimental data. The color-octet contribution to ψ photoproduction is in the forward region of phase space, where there may be large corrections to the NRQCD result from higher twist terms. As to ψ leptoproduction we point out that the theoretical uncertainties plaguing the photoproduction calculation vanish in the large momentum transfer limit. In this region of phase space the NRQCD formalism should be valid, making ψ leptoproduction an ideal laboratory for testing the theory.
Dietary modification of lead toxicity: Effects on fatty acid and eicosanoid metabolism in chicks☆

Abstract 1. 1. The influence of nutrition and chronic lead (Pb) administration on the level of eicosanoids and their precursors was evaluated in serum and liver from chicks fed defined diets. 2. 2. Dietary Pb consistently increased arachidonic acid, the arachidonate/linoleate ratio, and hepatic non-protein sulfhydryl concentration. 3. 3. Hepatic microsomal fatty acid elongation activity was decreased by Pb. 4. 4. Cottonseed oil, calcium and methionine interacted with Pb, affecting liver and serum fatty acid profiles, 5. 5. Tissue levels of leukotriene C 4 rose significantly with Pb or correlated with Pb-compromised body weight in only one experiment. Serum prostaglandins E 2 and F 2α were unchanged by treatments. 6. 6. The results suggest that an increase in precursors is not consistently reflected by tissue levels of eicosanoids.
A hybrid approach for real-time sequencing and scheduling

Abstract An approach for real-time sequencing and scheduling is described which integrates artificial neural networks, real-time simulation, genetic algorithms, and a trace-driven knowledge acquisition technique. This approach will be used to solve both single machine sequencing and multi-machine scheduling problems. Single-performance, artificial neural nets are used to quickly generate a small set of candidate sequencing or scheduling rules from some larger set of heuristics. A more detailed evaluation of these candidates is carried out using realtime simulation. This evaluation is necessary to generate a ranking that specifics how each rule performs against all of the performance measures. A further reduction of these candidates can be achieved from this ranking. Genetic algorithms are applied to this remaining set of rules to generate a single 'best' schedule. To capture the knowledge contained in that schedule, a trace-driven knowledge acquisition technique is used. Then, the derived rule is added to...
AlPO4−ZrO2 catalysts, II. Synthesis, textural properties and crystal structure of systems obtained in ethylene oxide

The effects of surface dehydration on textural properties, crystallinity and the structure of AlPO4−ZrO2 (weight ratio AlPO4/ZrO2=3) systems precipitated with ethylene oxide have been studied by N2 adsorption and XRD measurements. The increase in calcination temperature in the range 773–1273 K decreases the textural parameters as a consequence of AlPO4 crystallization to the tridymite form.
Change Detection on Comparametrically Related Images

In this paper we present a change detection approach for exposure-different images. This approach is based on a significance test on the joint comparametric probability distribution, that is, the joint noise and intensity image pair distribution. The approach involves determining a binary comparametric change detection mask for which homologous pixel pairs in our images are compared. In addition, joint spatial and tonal image registration is performed prior to carrying out the change detection. Two examples of real imagery are presented and receiver operating characteristic curves from three other change detection approaches are provided as comparison. The results demonstrate the increasing importance of properly accounting for exposure in change detection approaches as the exposure difference between images increases.
Pathology of Meloidogyne— Galling, Giant Cell Formation, Effects on Host Physiology

Gall Formation. The hypothesis that the localized tissue reaction to invasion by infective larvae results from the introduction of growth regulators by the nematodes is put forward. Critical evidence in support of the hypothesis is lacking, but there is some evidence that auxins are present in nematodes. It is suggested that Meloidogyne respond to a signal, from the plant, to release the galling stimulus. Giant Cell Formation. The organization of a localized source of proteins in the giant cells under the direction of the developing, female nematode is the outstanding characteristic of Meloidogyne infections. A number of possible mechanisms are considered. A. The nematode may remove important end-products such as amino acids or peptides. B. The developing larva may introduce specific regulators of protein synthesis, such as nucleic acids. C. Growth regulators are known to control protein synthesis. D. The nematode may affect the permeability of the membranes, increasing the flow of important ions into giant cells. E. The carbohydrases and proteolytic enzymes of Meloidogyne may affect the patterns of wall formation and nuclear division. F. A specific inhibitor of cell wall formation could account for many of the observations. Effects on Host Physiology. An increased ratio of root/shoot weights is characteristic of Meloidogyne infections. The nematode affects top growth by altering the traffic patterns of export and import between root and stem. In the field, this is manifest as increased susceptibility to water stress, reduced top growth, and especially, increased damage to roots by other micro-organisms.
Representing function: Relating functional representation and functional modeling research streams

This paper is an informal description of some recent insights about what a device function is, how it arises in response to needs, and how function arises from the structure of a device and the functions of its components. These results formalize and clarify a set of contending intuitions about function that researchers have had. The paper relates the approaches, results, and goals of this stream of research, called functional representation (FR), with the functional modeling (FM) stream in engineering. Despite the occurrence of the term function in the two streams, often the results and techniques in the two streams appear not to have much to do with each other. I argue that, in fact, the two streams are performing research that is mutually complementary. FR research provides the basic layer for device ontology in a formal framework that helps to clarify the meanings of terms such as function and structure, and also to support representation of device knowledge for automated reasoning. FM research provides another layer in device ontology, by attempting to identify behavior primitives that are applicable to subsets of devices, with the hope that functions can be described in those domains with an economy of terms. This can lead to useful catalogs of functions and devices in specific areas of engineering. With increased attention to formalization, the work in FM can provide domain-specific terms for FR research in knowledge representation and automated reasoning.
Morphological Control In Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal Film Matrices

Polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) films are derived from the polymerization of solutions of liquid crystals (LCs) in monomers. Upon polymerization:a phase separation occurs causing the liquid crystal to separate into discrete droplets. The liquid crystal material within these droplets still retains the electro-optic properties of bulk material. We describe the preparation of PDLC films in which the polymer is derived from a number of photopolymerizable acrylate-based monomers and the liquid crystal is a commercially available mixture with a positive dielectric anisotropy. It was found that the morphology of the resulting PDLC film can be controlled by the composition and concentration of the monomer/liquid crystal solution, the type of photoinitiator, and the rate of polymerization. Two distinct morphologies were observed: (1) A "polymer ball" morphology, in which the liquid crystal droplets were large and irregularly shaped, and (2) a "Swiss cheese" morphology, in which the liquid crystal droplets were small and nearly spherical. Modification of the polymerization mechanism from a chain polymerization to a stepwise polymerization had a dramatic effect on the resulting morphology.
Anisotropic spectra of magnetoplasmons in wide parabolic quantum-well systems.

Anisotropic intrasubband magnetoplasmons of an electron gas in a wide parabolic quantum well are obtained by using a method within the framework of the random-phase approximation. The symmetries and shapes of the various perturbed Hartree potentials along the confining direction at [ital B]=0 are found analytically. Anisotropy of the intrasubband modes in the presence of a longitudinal magnetic field perpendicular to the confinement direction is revealed and explained. We also make a striking prediction that a strong longitudinal magnetic field can give rise to an additional one-dimensional-like undamped intrasubband magnetoplasmon mode which is well within the experimentally accessible range.
Image differentiation and locational proximity among retail firms

Hotelling's (1929) classic paper gave rise to a voluminous literature and founded a controversy concerning the validity of the Principle of Minimum Differentiation (PMD). This research has produced conflicting theoretical results and inconsistencies between theory and empirical observations of retail competition. This paper develops a theory of market behavior that encompasses the extent and direction of customer loyalties, the multiplicity of chains and stores, and three forms of competitive expectations. Under conditions of shared competitive expectations, competitive pessimism, and competitive optimism, it provides a theoretical test of PMD and an explanation for the prevalence of spatial proximity and the differentiation of images in retail competition.
Quantifying uncertainties in pollutant mapping studies using the Monte Carlo method

Abstract Routine air monitoring provides accurate measurements of annual average concentrations of air pollutants, but the low density of monitoring sites limits its capability in capturing intra-urban variation. Pollutant mapping studies measure air pollutants at a large number of sites during short periods. However, their short duration can cause substantial uncertainty in reproducing annual mean concentrations. In order to quantify this uncertainty for existing sampling strategies and investigate methods to improve future studies, we conducted Monte Carlo experiments with nationwide monitoring data from the EPA Air Quality System. Typical fixed sampling designs have much larger uncertainties than previously assumed, and produce accurate estimates of annual average pollution concentrations approximately 80% of the time. Mobile sampling has difficulties in estimating long-term exposures for individual sites, but performs better for site groups. The accuracy and the precision of a given design decrease when data variation increases, indicating challenges in sites intermittently impact by local sources such as traffic. Correcting measurements with reference sites does not completely remove the uncertainty associated with short duration sampling. Using reference sites with the addition method can better account for temporal variations than the multiplication method. We propose feasible methods for future mapping studies to reduce uncertainties in estimating annual mean concentrations. Future fixed sampling studies should conduct two separate 1-week long sampling periods in all 4 seasons. Mobile sampling studies should estimate annual mean concentrations for exposure groups with five or more sites. Fixed and mobile sampling designs have comparable probabilities in ordering two sites, so they may have similar capabilities in predicting pollutant spatial variations. Simulated sampling designs have large uncertainties in reproducing seasonal and diurnal variations at individual sites, but are capable to predict these variations for exposure groups.
Hydrogen (H2) Evolution by Rhizobia after Synergetic Culture with Soybean Cell Suspensions

Rhizobium japonicum cells were grown in liquid suspension cultures and separated from soybean plant cells by two to three bacterial membrane filters. Under these conditions, the plant cells elaborated materials into the medium which aided in the expression of a major rhizobial phenotype, namely, nitrogenase activity (acetylene reduction). The evolution of H2 was also measured and this activity relative to acetylene reduction, was influenced by: (a) O2; (b) the quantity of conditioned plant medium; and (c) ammonia. It is concluded that plant substances are of major importance in the H2 evolution and nitrogenase activities of free-living rhizobia in suspension cultures.
The Comic Old Man in a Medicean Context: Lorenzino, the Florentine “New Brutus,” and ARIDOSIA

Playwright Lorenzino de' Medici (1514–48) is best known for assassinating his cousin and patron Alessandro, the despotic Duke of Florence, in 1537 and for justifying the murder publicly in an Apologia, which advocated the restoration of republican government in the city. While Lorenzino's stage comedy Aridosia (1536) has received considerable critical attention, its own political implications — its standing as ideological precursor to the apology — have been underestimated. With its central character, the miserly senex Aridosio, the play delineates an advanced form of corruption consonant with the wider ills described in the Apologia. The domestic tyrant's obsessive resolve to keep his wealth from his children evokes the Medicean determination to maintain absolute control in Florence. At other moments, Aridosio's unflattering portrayal recalls a different target: the older generation of greedy Florentine aristocrats, whom Lorenzino also charged with hindering the republican cause. The significant modifica...
Effect of urban ozone levels on laboratory-induced respiratory infections☆

Abstract The effect of the time of exposure to an aerosol of viable microorganisms on the incidence of respiratory infections associated with a 3 h exposure to ozone (O3) was studied. The 157 and 196 μg m 3 (0.08–0.1 ppm) levels of O3 used occur regularly in some urban communities. The studies reported here show that the susceptibility of mice to a laboratory-induced infection can be maximally enhanced if the infectious challenge is concurrent with the exposure to O3.
On the mechanism for the hydrogenation of olefins on transition-metal surfaces : the chemistry of ethylene on Pt(111)

The chemistry of ethylene on Pt(111) single-crystal surfaces was chosen here to represent olefin hydrogenation reactions on transition-metal catalysts. In vaccum the hydrogenation of ethylene was proven to proceed via a stepwise incorporation of hydrogen atoms on the clean surface, but under high pressures the catalyst was shown to become covered with carbonaceous deposits soon after exposure to the reactant gases. The species that compose the strongly bonded hydrocarbon fragments were identified as ethylidyne, a C2 moiety where one carbon atom sits on a 3-fold hollow site on the surface and is single-bonded to a methyl group directly above it. In order to better understand the role of the ethylidyne layer in the hydrogenation reaction, the mechanism of the conversion of ethylene to ethylidyne was studied in some detail. Even though no simple scheme has been found to explain this surface process so far, our studies have led to the rejection of previously suggested two-step pathways involving either vinyl ...
Oil Absorption Characteristics of a Multigrain Extrudate During Frying: Effect of Extrusion Temperature and Screw Speed1

ABSTRACT The oil absorption characteristics of a multigrain extruded and fried snack product were studied as a function of extruder screw speed and cooking temperature using a central composite response surface methodology (RSM). The extruded product was produced using a corotating twin screw extruder, dehydrated to a uniform moisture content, and subsequently deep-fat-fried at 192 ± 1°C for 10–40 sec to complete expansion. Significant RSM models were developed for oil absorption and extrudate water absorption index (WAI). According to the lowest oil model, absorption (19.9%) was obtained with an extruder screw speed of 218.6 rpm and a cooking temperature of 117.8°C. WAI reached a maximum at a screw speed of 221.9 rpm and a cooking temperature of 109°C. Oil absorption characteristics and extrudate WAI were significantly correlated (r= -0.84, P = 0.0002). The data suggest that extrusion conditions can be optimized to influence the physicochemical structures in the extrudate matrix so that oil absorption ca...
Energy efficiency and conservation for individual Americans

Americans make up only 4% of the world population, yet currently consume 25% of the world’s fossil fuels. The U.S. imports 63% of its oil and it is predicted that by 2020 the U.S. will be importing 95% of its oil resources. Over the past century, ample and affordable supplies of fossil fuels have powered the growth and prosperity of the economies of the US and other countries. Within this century, world oil supplies will decline while demand is projected to continue to increase, suggesting that we will have to transition to different fuels or become much more energy efficient or both. Looking ahead to the near decades, estimates are that consumers will have to reduce their energy use by at least 50%. This reduction will be necessary in large part due the decline in the availability of conventional oil and gas, but also because the U.S. population will continue to grow in number. Although government action is important, individuals too often discount their ability to make significant contributions to solving such major problems. This investigation identifies how informed and concerned individuals can collectively conserve fossil energy.
Bolstering resilience in the coconut kingdom: Improving adaptive capacity to climate change in Vanuatu

This communication discusses climate change adaptation efforts underway in Vanuatu. In particular, it uncovers why community-based approaches to adaptation are more likely to bear fruit than ones driven from the top-down at the national level. The authors make this claim based on early evidence that small-scale projects (a) support community ownership over adaptation, (b) provide ongoing technical learning lessons (c) relieve pressure from capacity constraints at national administrative bodies, and (d) expedite implementation by avoiding cumbersome multilateral procedures. The first section discusses its research methods and presents important characteristics of the Vanuatu economy, people and geography. The communication then moves on to discuss Vanuatu’s vulnerability to the effects of climate change. It specifically investigates on-going efforts to adapt to natural climatic hazards in Vanuatu. Early evidence and analysis reveals lessons salient for energy and climate policy.
Autoimmune inflammation of astrocyte transplants

Astrocytes have been shown to be capable of serving as antigen-presenting cells and as targets for encephalitogenic cytotoxic T lymphocytes. The role of astrocytes in central nervous system (CNS) autoimmune inflammation is unclear. To study this further, we transplanted astrocyte aggregates into the anterior eye chamber of the mouse. The astrocytic nature of these transplants was confirmed by immunohistochemical detection of glial fibrillary acidic protein and the inability to detect oligodendrocyte or microglial markers. When mice bearing transplants were induced to develop experimental allergic encephalomyelitis by either passive or active protocols, the astrocyte transplants developed a perivascular inflammatory response similar to that seen in the host CNS during the course of the encephalomyelitis. The data suggest that astrocytes could serve as targets for the autoimmune attack of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis and support the possibility that the pathogenesis of this disease may involve an autoimmune reaction against a site other than the myelin sheath.
Linear microstructural features in R5(Si,Ge)4-type alloys: Difficulties in identification

Abstract A brief review of the current literature concerning compounds based upon the R 5 (Si x Ge 1− x ) 4 structure reveals that essentially all examined alloys contain “linear features” similar to those first observed by Szade et al. on the surface of Gd 5 Si 4 , Gd 5 Si 2 Ge 2 and Gd 5 Ge 4 samples. Attempts to characterize these features, using a variety of techniques, have proven to be a difficult task. Rather than becoming clearer and better understood, discrepancies in the reported data have resulted in much confusion. A series of comprehensive experiments involving optical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometry, magnetization, and heat capacity measurements have been performed in an attempt to clarify the situation. These experiments, coupled with a critical examination of published data, allow certain misconceptions and apparent contradictions to be understood and explained. Of major importance is the discovery that the volume fraction of the linear feature present is far lower than what one may estimate on the basis of etched samples. The results of this study support previous data that show the linear features are a second phase of composition R 5 (Si x Ge 1− x ) 3 , and reveal the various difficulties associated with proper identification of this phase due to its small size scale and low volume percentage.
The Radical Philosophy Association

Originating informally in 1968 as the Radical Caucus within the American Philosophical Association (APA), the Radical Philosophy Association (RPA), established formally in 1982, is dedicated to str...
Convex Quadratic Approximation

For some applications it is desired to approximate a set of m data points in \Bbb Rn with a convex quadratic function. Furthermore, it is required that the convex quadratic approximation underestimate all m of the data points. It is shown here how to formulate and solve this problem using a convex quadratic function with s e (n + 1)(n + 2)/2 parameters, s ≤ m, so as to minimize the approximation error in the L1 norm. The approximating function is q(p,x), where p ∈ \Bbb Rs is the vector of parameters, and x ∈ \Bbb Rn. The Hessian of q(p,x) with respect to x (for fixed p) is positive semi-definite, and its Hessian with respect to p (for fixed x) is shown to be positive semi-definite and of rank ≤n. An algorithm is described for computing an optimal p* for any specified set of m data points, and computational results (for n e 4,6,10,15) are presented showing that the optimal q(p*,x) can be obtained efficiently. It is shown that the approximation will usually interpolate s of the m data points.
SU-C-500-05: CT-Based Treatment Planning for 4Pi Non-Coplanar Converging (4PiNC) Beams in An External-Beam Treatment Planning System

Purpose: A 4-Pi non-coplanar converging (4PiNC) modality has been actively developed in our institution, in which the radiation beams are delivered along conic trajectories and rotate around the midline of a patient. The proposed design eliminates the potential gantry-couch collision, a major concern of non-coplanar beam delivery. This study introduces a method to implement the 4PiNC planning in the public-domain treatment planning system (TPS) PLUNC. Methods: The cone angle of a 4PiNC delivery is defined as the angle between the cone edge and the transverse iso-plane. The beam angle defines its relative position on the cone. We have mathematically proved that there is a one-to-one correspondence between a 4PiNC beam specification (cone and beam angle) and a LINAC beam specification (gantry and couch angle). Therefore, a graphic interface was written in PLUNC to design a 4PiNC RT plan using existing commissioned LINAC machines. The method was validated visually on a spherical phantom of 15cm radius with 12 beams evenly distributed on a cone, and with cone angle 40, - 30, 20, - 10 and 0 degree respectively. A 4PiNC RT plan was made for a prostate SBRT case with the afore-mentioned 5 cones (20 beams on each cone) and was compared with the conventional five-beam IMRT plan. Results: In the phantom study, the transverse planes at −3, 0 and 3 cm from the iso-plane as well as the sagittal iso-plane were examined; the beam separations and cone angles were consistent with those specified. The prostate study suggested that the OAR mean dose can be reduced by up to 44.5% by the 4PiNC RT plan with comparable PTV coverage. Conclusion: The RT planning for the proposed 4PiNC delivery system can be implemented in a TPS for conventional LINAC beams. This allows dosimetric investigation of the proposed system even before finalizing the hardware design. This work was partially supported by a DoD grant DoD W81XWH1010862
A CHARACTERIZATION OF NONSINGULAR PAIRS OF QUADRATIC FORMS

Let F, G be a pair of quadratic forms defined over an arbitrary field k. We give a characterization for when every nontrivial zero of F = G = 0 defined over the algebraic closure of k is nonsingular. When chark ≠ 2, this result is well known. When chark = 2, the problem divides into two cases. If n is odd, we use the half-determinant, and if n is even, we use the Arf invariant for this characterization. The characterization depends only on the coefficients of the quadratic forms and operations taking place in the field k.
Kinetics of Cinnamoyl Glycerol Formation

The esterifications of glycerol with cinnamic acid, 2-methoxy cinnamic acid, and 4-methoxy cinnamic acid were investigated in batch reactions. Conversions of over 50% were achieved for cinnamic acid and 4-methoxy cinnamic acid within 8 h. After 24 h, conversions of over 80% were obtained for cinnamic acid and 4-methoxy cinnamic acid. Conversions of 33 and 40% were observed for 2-methoxy cinnamic acid after 8 and 24 h, respectively. These reactions were modeled by a system of sequential first-order rate expressions. Kinetic parameters were estimated from experimental data fit to the model equations.
The Multiple Gyrotron System on the DIII-D Tokamak

The electron cyclotron heating and current drive complex on the DIII-D tokamak presently comprises six gyrotrons injecting rf power from the low field side at 110 GHz, the 2f ce resonance at the center of the vacuum chamber. Typical injected rf power is 600–650 kW per gyrotron. The launched rf can be directed over ±20° toroidally to create both co- and counter-current drive and scanned over 40° poloidally to permit the injected rf beams to intersect, and be absorbed at, the second harmonic resonance anywhere in the tokamak upper half plane. The elliptical polarization is controlled so that the desired extraordinary or ordinary modes are excited for any injection geometry. The maximum injected energy on a single plasma shot has been 16.6 MJ for six gyrotrons injecting a total of 3.4 MW for 5 seconds.
Comments on "Tolerance of double-loop computer networks to multimode failures" by H. Masuyama and T. Ichimori

H. Masuyama and T. Ichimori (see IEEE Trans. Comput., vol.38, no.5, p.738-41, 1989) quantitatively evaluated the ability of a class of double-loop networks called forward-loop-backward-hop (FLBH) networks to tolerate node failures. Their approach was based on the enumeration of all possible sets of failures. The authors prove that their results are incorrect and demonstrate that it is difficult to solve this problem using an approach based on the enumeration of failure sets, suggesting that other approaches may be preferable. >
Extreme Form Factor Imagers

Optical design for imagers is always a problem in constrained optimization, where the application provides both optical performance as well as the typically conflicting constraints on the system cost and/or physical footprint. Here we review work on several imaging systems where the physical shape of the imager has been a dominant factor in the optical system design, including a narrow imager and light source in a laryngoscope for neonatal infants as well as a number of extremely thin imagers based on the concentric folded lens geometry.
Unlocking the mysteries of the ice ages

Much progress has been made towards understanding what caused the waxing and the waning of the great ice sheets, but a complete theory of the ice ages is still elusive.
Synthesis of Titanium and Zirconium Complexes That Contain the Tridentate Diamido Ligand, [((t-Bu-d6)N-o-C6H4)2O]2- ([NON]2-) and the Living Polymerization of 1-Hexene by Activated [NON]ZrMe2

As a part of their program to investigate the utility of triamidoamine ligands and new diamido ligands in early metal chemistry, the authors were attracted to the [(t-BuN-o-C{sub 6} H{sub 4}){sub 2}O]{sup 2-} ligand for preparing new noncyclopentadienyl group 4 olefin polymerization catalysts for a variety of reasons, among them the likely robust nature of the (tert-butyl)(phenyl)amide-metal linkage and the diphenyl ether linkage. The article reports the preliminary results for Ti and Zr. The results reported here, along with those reported recently for a Ti catalyst containing a chelating diamido ligand, suggest that group 4 addition polymerization catalysts that contain diamido ligands can be designed that are much more stable with respect to loss of olefin via {beta} elimination and consequent chain transfer than metallocene-based catalysts, but are still highly active. 36 refs., 3 figs.
Vocational services associated with competitive employment in 18–25 year old cancer survivors

Young adult cancer survivors report difficulties related to employment. This study investigated the association of vocational services on work in young cancer survivors unemployed prior to receipt of services. Administrative data obtained for years 2004 and 2005 from the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) database was used in the analyses. A total of 368 cases aged 18–25 who were closed during the 2 years with a diagnosis of cancer were identified. All cancer survivors were unemployed at the time of application. Data on demographic characteristics, employment and vocational services were extracted and analyzed in relation to employment. Multivariate logistic regression was used to examine the relationship among services provided and work outcomes accounting for demographic characteristics. Cancer survivors represented 0.4% of the total population that received vocational services in the state-federal vocational rehabilitation system. Of the unemployed cancer survivors who received services, 190 (51.6%) achieved successful employment while 178 (48.4%) were not employed following receipt of vocational rehabilitation services. Gender (woman) (OR = 1.79; 95% CI: 1.16 to 2.76), vocational training (OR = 2.03; 95% CI: 1.03 to 4.00), miscellaneous training (OR = 4.01; 95% CI: 1.80 to 8.97), job search assistance (OR = 4.01; 95% CI: 1.80 to 8.97), job placement services (OR = 2.24; 95% CI: 1.11 to 4.52), on-the-job support (OR = 4.20; 95% CI: 1.66 to 10.63), and maintenance services (OR = 2.85; 95% CI: 1.38 to 5.90) were all related to an increased odds for employment. Provision of cash or medical benefits (e.g., Social Security Disability Insurance benefits) (OR = 0.43; 95% CI: 0.28 to 0.67) was associated with lower employment following vocational services. Very few young adult cancer survivors were involved in the state-federal rehabilitation program. Despite this, the provision of certain vocational rehabilitation services was related to increased employment in this group. Those who received job search assistance and on the job support were four times more likely to be employed following such services. While those in receipt of benefits were less likely to be employed, it is very likely that those receiving such benefits are the more severe cases. It is worth noting that the exact direction of these relationships can not be determined with the current design. Young adult cancer survivors who are seeking employment and can qualify for such services may benefit from certain services offered by state vocational rehabilitation agencies. This represents another service to consider when employment is a goal.
Mainstreaming or Mainlining A Competency Based Approach to Mainstreaming

This study identified the social skill competencies a mainstreamed student should possess in order to function successfully in the regular classroom. Regular and special elementary level educators completed a 36-item questionnaire that asked them to rate their perception as to whether or not a specific social skill was critical for success in the mainstream setting. Based upon the results of this study, three general social skill areas and 15 competencies were identified. Differences between regular and special educators and primary and intermediate level teachers were identified.
The motion of drops in viscous media

Abstract The effects of local variations in interfacial tension on the motion of drops in liquid—liquid systems are discussed. Experimental observations of the various types of motion which are caused by the addition of solute to the dispersed phase are described. Approximate models of the drop motion are used to make quantitative estimates of the relative importance of different dynamical modes in dissipating the surface energy. Values of the parameters which characterize the transient behaviour of the oscillation mode are estimated and compared with observed values.
Accuracy of Least Squares Computer Programs: Another Reminder

In 1943, Hotelling reported on the potential inaccuracies of least squares algorithms. Since then, numerous studies have been published presenting the results of comprehensive tests of widely used least squares routines, algorithm refinement, and assessments of error bounds. Papers by Beaton, Rubin, and Barone; Freund; Ling; Longley; and Wampler provide a sample of the literature available. Most of the formal research on these issues has been conducted by statisticians, mathematicians, or computer scientists and/or has been published in the scientific journals of those professions. While probably aware of potential computer inaccuracies, agricultural economists and others using least squares programs in their research are often forced to rely on both the software packages and hardware available at their research station. They may or may not be familiar with the literature being published on computational accuracy and as a result may not explicitly question the accuracy of either the software or the hardware they use. The issue is real and of some importance. In 1976, for example, SPSS, Inc., distributed a newsletter warning users of that major software package that there "is a catastrophic error in the discriminant procedure. The discriminant function coefficients are incorrectly computed" (p. 2). While the problem was corrected once it was discovered, consider the plight of those who used the discriminant procedure from that package to conduct research and are now anxiously awaiting comments from reviewers regarding the publishability of their results and the associated policy implications. The purpose of this note is to demonstrate once again and in a form meaningful to program users that even though substantial improvements in computer software and hardware have been made in recent years, computational accuracy can still be a problem. While it is admitted that accuracy is a multidimensional issue, our concern in this paper is with computational accuracy. The procedure employed is that used by Wampler. Results obtained from selected regression routines available to agricultural economists at four land grant universities are examined and compared. No formal attempt is made here to explain why, for certain problems, some routines and/or machines may generate more accurate results. Such a discussion is beyond the scope of this note and would in large measure duplicate the literature now available. The interested reader is referred to Ling.
Measurements of formate and acetate in precipitation at Niwot Ridge and Boulder, Colorado

Formate and acetate as well as other organic and inorganic anions have been measured in precipitation collected in Colorado at Niwot Ridge (a rural site) and Boulder (a suburban site). At both sites, the organic anion concentration is usually at least 20% of the nitrate concentration and occasionally exceeds the nitrate. Formate is the dominant organic anion measured with concentrations as large as 9 × 10−5 M occurring in summer rain showers. A variety of dicarboxylic anions are observed but their concentration is generally much less than formate. Correlation with nitrate suggests that the large values found for the organic anions results from anthropogenic pollution.
Maternal Orbital Hematoma Associated With Labor

We examined two women with orbital hematomas that occurred during labor. Both women developed sudden diplopia, proptosis, and orbital pain. The location of the hematoma was confirmed by orbital echography and computed tomography. The patients were observed without surgical intervention. Neither patient developed clinical or echographic signs of compressive optic neuropathy. Clinical resolution occurred during the following two weeks. Serial standardized orbital echographic examinations documented resolution of the hematomas.
Marijuana Use Among the Adolescent Children of High-Risk Drug-Abusing Fathers

This study examines marijuana use among children of male drug abusers. Subjects were 83 African-American and European-American male drug abusers, of whom the majority were injection drug users, and their children. Thirty-one of the fathers were HIV-positive and 52 were HIV-negative. Using logistic regression analyses, we explored cross-sectionally the relationship between four psychosocial domains (ie, paternal attributes, adolescent problem behaviors, father-adolescent relations, and environment) and adolescent marijuana use. The father's use of illegal drugs and his failure to cope adaptively predicted adolescent marijuana use, while a close father-child bond predicted less adolescent marijuana use. Adolescent problem behaviors predicted an increased likelihood of marijuana use. Furthermore, hierarchical regression analysis demonstrated that the adolescent's problem behavior mediated the associations between both the father-adolescent relationship and environmental factors with adolescent marijuana use. Reducing the risk factors and enhancing the protective factors within each of the domains could help reduce marijuana use among the adolescent children of drug-abusing fathers. Moreover, if a father is a drug abuser, it is important to help him establish a close bond with his child in order to help attenuate the influence of his drug use on the child's marijuana use.
Noninvasive cardiovascular studies in patients with inflammatory myopathy.

The authors prospectively performed echocardiographic and Doppler studies on 13 patients with inflammatory myopathy to evaluate ventricular function, to assess valve morphology and function, and to obtain hemodynamic data. No patient had a reduction in left ventricular function or evidence of significant val vular disease. Hemodynamic assessment suggested evidence of pulmonary hyper tension in 9 patients. They conclude that cardiomyopathy in association with inflammatory myopathy is unusual and that the suggestion of pulmonary hyper tension is unexplained and merits further evaluation.
Cyclosporine therapy for psoriasis: serum creatinine measurements are an unreliable predictor of decreased renal function.

With increasingly widespread use of Cyclosporine for the treatment of psoriasis, it is imperative to identify reliable markers of Cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity. Five patients with extensive psoriasis and no significant preexisting renal disease were treated with oral Cyclosporine (average dosage, 5 mg/kg per day; average duration of treatment, 9 weeks). Changes in serum creatinine measurements made immediately before and at the end of treatment were compared with changes in glomerular filtration rate as determined by 125 I-iothalamate clearance. During treatment, the average serum creatinine value only increased from 1.0 ± 0.2 to 1.1 ± 0.3 mg/dl (± standard deviation), whereas iothalamate-based estimates of glomerular infiltration rate decreased from 100 ± 22 to 63 ± 37 ml/min/1.73 m 2 ( p 125 I-iothalamate and 24-hour creatinine clearances were obtained in two patients at the end of treatment and at 2 weeks after Cyclosporine therapy. Glomerular filtration rates determined by iothalamate clearance were 14% to 30% lower than those calculated by 24-hour creatinine clearances. Neither serum creatinine measurements nor creatinine clearances (whether calculated or measured) accurately reflect the Cyclosporine-induced decline in renal function as determined by glomerular filtration rate. In contrast, 125 I-iothalamate clearance is a more accurate measurement of glomerular filtration rate, which provides a sensitive marker for monitoring potential Cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity.
Exploitation of fluctuations to enhance target detection and to reduce clutter and background noise in the marine environment

Amplitude and phase fluctuations are an inherent characteristic of many types of propagation media including sound in the marine environment. Generally, fluctuations are regarded as a nuisance to be ignored, avoided, or eliminated. However, this paper shows that fluctuations can be effectively exploited to enhance the detection of targets that fluctuate less in amplitude than the clutter and background noise. In fact, a case can be made that the exploitation of fluctuations constitutes a third dimension for achieving gain to supplement the other two well know dimensions of frequency resolution gain and array aperture gain. Results from measurements at sea are presented to support the claim that a new dimension of gain is being accessed and to demonstrate that the additional gains can be substantial.
Climate Variability and Sugarcane Yield in Louisiana

Abstract This paper seeks to understand the role that climate variability has on annual yield of sugarcane in Louisiana. Unique features of sugarcane growth in Louisiana and nonclimatic, yield-influencing factors make this goal an interesting and challenging one. Several methods of seeking and establishing the relations between yield and climate variables are employed. First, yield–climate relations were investigated at a single research station where crop variety and growing conditions could be held constant and yield relations could be established between a predominant older crop variety and a newer one. Interviews with crop experts and a literature survey were used to identify potential climatic factors that control yield. A statistical analysis was performed using statewide yield data from the American Sugar Cane League from 1963 to 2002 and a climate database. Yield values for later years were adjusted downward to form an adjusted yield dataset. The climate database was principally constructed from d...
Foodservice Forecasting Using Simple Mathematical Models

The purpose of this study was to develop, test and evaluate simple math ematical time series forecasting models to predict covers in a commercial foodservice environment. Total covers were selected as the focus of this research because they have been identified as the most common forecast numbers for food sales forecasts within hotel food and beverage operations (Schmidgall, 1989).KeyWords:Forecasting, foodservice, mathematical (time series) models, hospitality management.
Exercise attenuates nuclear protein binding to gene regulatory sequences of hepatic fatty acid synthase

The effect of an acute bout of exhaustive exercise on hepatic fatty acid synthase (FAS) gene expression was examined in rats. Female Sprague-Dawley rats (age 8 wk) were fasted for 48 h (F,n = 6), o...