cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polymers as Materials

Abstract The chemistry and technology of polymers has developed rapidly during the last three decades; it concerns itself with materials consisting essentially of the elements C, H, N, and O, and being therefore conventionally classified as organic polymers. However, in many instances other elements such as B, Si, P, S, F, and CI are present in certain proportions and have a more or less important influence on the ultimate properties of the products. Together with the large family of metallic compounds and ceramic systems, organic polymers represent useful and increasingly important engineering materials in the construction of buildings, vehicles, engines, applicanes, textiles, packaging, printing and writing materials, plastics, rubber goods and household articles of all kinds.
A testimonial to H. H. Henline from past AIEE presidents

A testimonial in appreciation of the services of H. H. Henline, who recently retired as secretary of the Institute, was presented during the Summer and Pacific General Meeting in the form of a portfolio of letters from Mr. Robertson and the other 15 living past presidents who served during Mr. Henline's tenure. The presentation was made by Past President McMillan.
Enhanced Simulation-Optimization Approach Using Surrogate Modeling for Solving Inverse Problems

This study investigates and discusses groundwater system characterization problem utilizing surrogate modeling. In this inverse problem, the contaminant signals at monitoring wells are recorded to recreate the pollution profiles. In this study, simulation-optimization approach is a technique utilized to solve inverse problems by formulating them as an optimization model, where evolutionary computation algorithms are used to perform the search. In this approach, the partial differential equations (PDE) groundwater transport simulation model is solved iteratively during the evolutionary search, which in general can be computationally expensive since thousands of simulation model evaluations will be evaluated. To overcome this limitation, the simulation model is replaced by a surrogate model, which is computationally much faster than the simulation model and yet is relatively accurate. Artificial neural networks (ANN) is used to construct surrogate models that provide acceptable accuracy performances. The AN...
Synthesis and characterization of silica-based hyper-crosslinked sulfonate-modified reversed stationary phases.

Abstract A novel type of silica-based sulfonate-modified reversed phase (−SO3-HC-C8) has been synthesized; it is based on a newly developed acid stable “hyper-crosslinked” C8 derivatized reversed phase, denoted HC-C8. The −SO3-HC-C8 phases containing controlled amounts of sulfonyl groups were made by sulfonating the aromatic hyper-crosslinked network of the HC-C8 phase at different temperatures. The −SO3-HC-C8 phases are only slightly less hydrophobic than the parent HC-C8 phase. The added sulfonyl groups provide a unique strong cation-exchange selectivity to the hydrophobic hyper-crosslinked substrate as indicated by the very large C coefficient as shown through Snyder's hydrophobic subtraction reversed-phase characterization method. This cation-exchange activity clearly distinguishes the sulfonated phase from all other reversed phases as confirmed by the very high values of Snyder's column comparison function Fs. In addition, as was found in previous studies of silica-based and zirconia-based reversed phases, a strong correlation between the cation-exchange interaction and hydrophobic interaction was observed for these sulfonated phases in studies of the retention of cationic solutes. The overall chromatographic selectivity of these −SO3-HC-C8 phases is greatly enhanced by its high hydrophobicity through a “hydrophobically assisted” ion-exchange retention process.
Analog Negative-Bias-Temperature-Instability Monitoring Circuit

A negative-bias-temperature-instability (NBTI) monitor subcircuit is presented and implemented in 65-nm CMOS technology. The subcircuit can be incorporated in various analog circuit blocks subject to different variability, stress, and aging histories. For an amplifier block, the NBTI monitor is a linear sensor, and sensing is provided as variation of the amplifier gain in response to NBTI-induced bias variation. The monitor sensitivity in this configuration is 3.15 V-1 and is demonstrated through electrothermal stress on the amplifier circuit.
Staff-Mediated Learning in Museums: A Social Interaction Perspective

ABSTRACT Educators, docents, and interpreters are considered integral to the learning experiences at many museums. Although there is growing recognition that these staff members need professional development to effectively support visitor learning, there has been little research to describe their work or identify effective facilitation strategies. To address this need, we explored the nature of unstructured staff-facilitated family learning at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry in Portland, OR, videotaping and inductively analyzing 65 unstructured staff-family interactions. The analysis highlighted the importance of role negotiation between staff and adult family members, particularly during the initiation of interactions, staff and visitor facilitation of family learning, and the introduction of new learning goals by staff members. Aligned with prior research on family learning in museums, adult family members played a critical role in shaping the nature of the interactions and determining the lev...
Medical Care in the Countryside near Paris, 1800-1914ab

Les medecins d'epidemie institues par Napoleon au niveau de l'arrondissement ont eu un role primordial dans la diffusion de la medecine et de l'hygiene dans les campagnes. Les grandes epidemies, les guerres aussi, marquent les grandes etapes chronologiques de la transformation des mentalites
Media effects of experimental presentation of the ideal physique on eating disorder symptoms: a meta-analysis of laboratory studies.

Abstract Background Older meta-analyses of the effects of the media's portrayal of the ideal physique have found small effects revealing that exposure to the ideal physique increases body image concerns. These meta-analyses also included correlational, quasi-experimental, and experimental studies, with limited examination of moderators and other relevant outcomes besides body image. Methods We conducted a systematic literature search and identified 33 experimental (i.e., pre and post data for both experimental and control groups) laboratory studies examining the effects of acute exposure to the media's portrayal of the ideal physique on eating disorder symptoms (i.e., body image, positive affect, negative affect, self-esteem, anger, anxiety and depression) and the mechanisms that moderate this effect. Results Fourteen separate meta-analyses revealed a range of small to moderate effect sizes for change in outcomes from pre to post for both experimental and control groups. Exposure to images of the ideal physique resulted in small effect sizes for increased depression and anger and decreased self-esteem and positive affect. Moderator analyses revealed moderate effect sizes for increased depression and body dissatisfaction among high-risk participants. Conclusions This meta-analysis makes it clear that media exposure of the ideal physique results in small changes in eating disorder symptoms, particularly with participants at high risk for developing an eating disorder. Further research is needed to examine the longitudinal effects of media exposure of eating disorder symptoms.
Initiating Interactive Turn Spaces in Japanese Conversation: Local Projection and Collaborative Action

Shifting from a focus on transitions between speakers at turn boundaries, this study examines projective and multimodal structures inside a turn-constructional unit (TCU), out of which any turn is built. It analyzes how particular noun-phrasal components within a TCU become projective and shape interactive turn spaces (ITSs) where co-participants legitimately provide a relevant next action. The speaker projects spaces, which create opportunities for responses and facilitate collaborative participation. The analysis explicates where and how the speaker projects ITSs through emerging syntactic components and multimodal resources such as gazes, gestures, and facial expressions. Demonstrating how participants understand emerging local actions and how they analyze prior actions to which they are responding (i.e., the impact of reflexivity) reveals the interactive organization of spaces inside a TCU where multiple dimensions of projection work together to facilitate micro-collaboration in Japanese conversation.
GABAA receptor downregulation in brains of subjects with autism

Gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptors are ligand-gated ion channels responsible for mediation of fast inhibitory action of GABA in the brain. Preliminary reports have demonstrated altered expression of GABA receptors in the brains of subjects with autism suggesting GABA/glutamate system dysregulation. We investigated the expression of four GABAA receptor subunits and observed significant reductions in GABRA1, GABRA2, GABRA3, and GABRB3 in parietal cortex (Brodmann’s Area 40 (BA40)), while GABRA1 and GABRB3 were significantly altered in cerebellum, and GABRA1 was significantly altered in superior frontal cortex (BA9). The presence of seizure disorder did not have a significant impact on GABAA receptor subunit expression in the three brain areas. Our results demonstrate that GABAA receptors are reduced in three brain regions that have previously been implicated in the pathogenesis of autism, suggesting widespread GABAergic dysfunction in the brains of subjects with autism.
The physiological disposition of 2-(2,6-dichloroanilino)-2-imidazoline (St-155)

Abstract St-155 [2-(2,6-dichloroanilino)-2-imidazoline] is a new hypotensive agent effective in microgram doses. The physiological disposition of the compound in the rat was examined by using 14 C-labeled drug and a selective extraction procedure. St-155 was found to be localized reversibly in all of the tissues examined, but especially in the submaxillary gland. The gland to plasma concentration ratio was about 40. The concentration in saliva was lower than that for the plasma, indicating that the compound had accumulated in the gland itself. Examination of the uptake of St-155 into sub-maxillary slices in vitro showed that the accumulation reflected the concentration of non-ionized compound in the bath fluid, suggesting that passage of the drug from plasma to saliva occurs by diffusion of this form of St-155 through the gland.
Novel non-suppressing mutants of Escherichia coli tRNATyr su3+

Several addition and deletion mutations were constructed in the region of the gene for Escherichia coli tRNATyr su+3 corresponding to the dihydrouracil loop of the mature tRNA. None of these resulting mutants had detectable suppressor function compared to the parent gene yet some directed the synthesis of mature tRNA. These latter mutants may affect the ability of the tRNA to be aminoacylated or to interact with the translational machinery on the ribosome.
The Effect of Lewis Bases on the 13C NMR of Iodoalkynes

In Lewis-basic solvents, alkynyl carbons bonded to iodine have chemical shifts approximately 12−15 ppm higher in frequency than the corresponding shifts in CDCl3. We offer computational evidence that this solvent effect comes directly from polarization of the iodoalkyne triple bond. Hartree−Fock and Density Functional Theory calculations reproduce the change in chemical shift for a gas-phase complex between the iodoalkyne and dimethyl sulfoxide as Lewis base. The amount of spin−orbit coupling from the adjacent iodine does not change appreciably in the complex, according to the calculations.
Fabrication of large-aperture lightweight diffractive lenses for use in space

We describe the advantages of using diffractive (Fresnel) lenses on thin membranes over conventional optics for, among others, future space telescope projects. Fabrication methods are presented for lenses on two types of freestanding membrane up to 50 cm in size. The first is a Fresnel lens etched into a thin (380-microm) glass sheet, and the second is an approximately 50-microm-thick polymer membrane containing a Fresnel lens made by replication process from a specially made fused-silica master. We show optical performance analysis of all the lenses that are fabricated, including a diffraction-limited Airy spot from a 20-m- focal-length membrane lens in a diffractive telescope system.
The removal of the bereavement exclusion in the DSM-5: exploring the evidence.

Since 1980, the DSM-III and its various iterations through the DSM-IV-TR have systematically excluded individuals from the diagnosis of major depressive disorder if symptoms began within months after the death of a loved one (2 months in DSM-IV), unless the depressive syndrome was ‘severely’ impairing and/or accompanied by specific features. This criterion became known as the ‘bereavement exclusion’. No other adverse life events were noted to negate the diagnosis of major depressive disorder if all other symptomatic, duration, severity and distress/impairment criteria were met. However, studies since the inception of the bereavement exclusion have shown that depressive syndromes occurring after bereavement share many of the same features as other, non-bereavement related depressions, tend to be chronic and/or recurrent if left untreated, interfere with the resolution of grief, and respond to treatment. Furthermore, the bereavement exclusion has had the unintended consequence of suggesting that grief should end in only 2 months, or that grief and major depressive disorder cannot co-occur. To prevent the denial of diagnosis and the consideration of sometimes much needed care, even after bereavement or other significant losses, the DSM-5 no longer contains the bereavement exclusion. Instead, the DSM-5 now permits the diagnosis of major depressive disorder after and during bereavement and includes a note and a comprehensive footnote in the major depressive episode criteria set to guide clinicians in making the diagnosis in this context. The decision to make this change was widely and publically debated and remains controversial. This article reports on the rationale for this decision and the way the DSM-5 now addresses the challenges of diagnosing major depressive disorder in the context of someone grieving the loss of a loved one.
Reduce—Recycle—Reuse: Guidelines for Promoting Perioperative Waste Management

The perioperative environment generates large amounts of waste, which negatively affects local and global ecosystems. To manage this waste health care facility leaders must focus on identifying correctable issues, work with relevant stakeholders to promote solutions, and adopt systematic procedural changes. Nurses and managers can moderate negative environmental effects by promoting reduction, recycling, and reuse of materials in the perioperative setting.
Multiresolution optical correlation using the wavelet transform

ABSTRACT We used the wavelet representation of an image for multiresolution processing. As the resolution of an object was decreased we maintained the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) at the highest resolution by changing the support region of a binary phase-only filter (BPOF). In this way we were able to decreasethe resolution by a factor of four while maintaining the SNR at the full resolution for our test image. Although the SNR remained constant as the resolution decreased, the peak-to-correlation energy decreased. The processing of an object at a lower resolution is significant because it corresponds to pro-cessing the same object in a larger image after downsampling. Due to the limited number of pixels incurrently available SLMs, multiresolution processing could extend there usefulness.Keywords: binary phase-only filter, multiresolution, optical correlator, wavelet transform, 1.0 INTRODUCTION Because the resolution of an optical correlator is usually fixed, only a constant size image can be pro-cessed. Therefore, we can often only process a portion of an image as its resolution is increased. Usingthis technique an optical correlator has been used to search a pyramid representation of an In thismethod, input images were preprocessed with morphological filters to approximate low-pass filters togenerate a binary image pyramid. As the resolution of the image decreased, objects appeared smaller
Abnormal glycosylation of myelin-associated glycoprotein in quaking mouse brain.

Abstract Brain slices from actively myelinating (26–28 days) quaking and normal littermates were dual-labeled with radioactive mannose and fucose for 2 h. Following the incubation myelin was isolated by sucrose density gradient centrifugation and the incorporation of sugars into the major myelinassociated glycoprotein (MAG) determined. The incorporation of mannose (an internal monosaccharide) and fucose (a terminal monosaccharide) was impaired in quaking by approximately 70 and 83% respectively as compared to control. The mannose/fucose ratio in quaking myelin was approximately 70% higher than in control. The results indicate an abnormal processing of the N-linked oligosaccharide moiety of MAG in quaking oligodendrocytes.
Racial variation in lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 in older adults

Background Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is a predictor of cardiovascular events that has been shown to vary with race. The objective of this study was to examine factors associated with this racial variation.
High-resolution water vapor spectrum and line shape analysis in the Terahertz region

Abstract A coherent broadband high-resolution study of the water vapor absorption spectrum at 1.5 THz was performed. The transmittance was recorded for many different water vapor and air pressures at multiple path lengths at a resolution of 5–10 MHz. A post-processing routine was developed to filter the acquired data before being subjected to a global multispectral fitting analysis of 145 data sets. The experimental data was fit to multiple different line shapes and a line shape analysis was performed in order to determine the most accurate line shape in the Terahertz range. Five of the strongest water vapor lines in the region were identified and fit to the data. The line center frequencies, absolute intensities, self- and foreign-broadening coefficients, and self- and foreign-continuum coefficients were all experimentally determined along with their statistically determined error bars. The fitted parameters are compared to the values from the literature.
Cloning of a tomato polygalacturonase expressed in abscission.

Abscission, organ separation, is accompanied by cell wall breakdown in separation layer cells. In tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), ethylene-induced abscission is correlated with an increase in polygalacturonase (PG) and endo-β-1,4-D-glucanase (cellulase) activity. We have identified a putative, abscission-specific cDNA clone for PG, pTAPG1. The TAPG1 cDNA has 43% identity at the amino acid level with the tomato fruit PG. Genomic blot analysis suggests that the gene for TAPG1 is a member of a small subfamily of PG genes that is distinct from the tomato fruit PG. The TAPG1 cDNA hybridizes to mRNA expressed during the course of ethylene-induced leaf and flower abscission. A high level of PG transcript accumulation coincides with the occurrence of abscission. Auxin, an abscission inhibitor, and silver thiosulfate, an ethylene action inhibitor, suppressed accumulation of mRNA in leaf abscission zones complementary to the TAPG1 cDNA. Expression of TAPG1 transcripts is several-fold higher in flower abscission zones than in leaf abscission zones. The identification of cDNAs that encode abscission-specific PG provide and additional tool to study the regulation of abscission and cell wall dissolution in separation layer cells.
Sol-gel trapping of functional intermediates of hemoglobin: Geminate and bimolecular recombination studies

The encapsulation of proteins in porous sol−gels is a promising technique for generating, trapping, and probing functionally significant nonequilibrium protein species. An essential step needed in the pursuit of that goal is establishing the degree to which the sol−gel limits conformational change upon adding or removing substrates. In the present study, geminate recombination and solvent phase bimolecular recombination of CO to human adult hemoglobin (HbA) are used as sensitive probes of the degree of conformational constraint within the sol−gel. Two forms of CO saturated encapsulated HbA are generated. In one case, designated [COHbA], the equilibrium form of COHbA is directly encapsulated. In the second case, designated as [deoxyHbA] + CO, the equilibrium form of deoxyHbA is encapsulated and only after the sample has aged is CO introduced to the HbA through the porous sol−gel matrix. Three different preparative protocols are used to generate the sol−gels for each of the two forms of encapsulated COHbA. ...
Effects of pregnancy and childbirth on postpartum sexual function: a longitudinal prospective study

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of pregnancy and childbirth on postpartum sexual function. Nulliparous, English-literate women were enrolled who had presented to the UNC Hospital’s obstetrical practice; these women were 18 years of age and older and at 30–40 weeks’ gestation. Questionnaires were completed regarding sexual function prior to pregnancy, at enrollment, and at 2, 6, 12, and 24 weeks postpartum. Demographic and delivery data were abstracted from the departmental perinatal database. One hundred and fifty women were enrolled. At 6, 12, and 24 weeks postpartum, 57, 82, and 90% of the women had resumed intercourse. At similar postpartum timepoints, approximately 30 and 17% of women reported dyspareunia; less than 5% described the pain as major. At these times, 39, 60, and 61% of women reported orgasm. Orgasmic function was described as similar to that prior to pregnancy or improved by 71, 77, and 83%. Delivery mode and episiotomy were not associated with intercourse resumption or anorgasmia; dyspareunia was only associated with breast-feeding at 12 weeks (RR=3.36, 95% CI=1.77–6.37). Most women resumed painless intercourse by 6 weeks and experienced orgasm by 12 weeks postpartum. Function was described as similar to or improved over that prior to pregnancy.
Does it make sense to speak of an "Islamic Bioethics"? Some lessons from the organ transplant controversy in Egypt

Abstract Why has Egypt, a pioneer of organ transplantation, been reluctant to pass a national organ transplant law for more than three decades? The talk will be based on Sherine Hamdy's newly released book, Our Bodies Belong to God: Organ Transplants, Islam, and the Struggle for Human Dignity in Egypt (2012) which analyzes the national debate over organ transplantation in Egypt as it has unfolded during a time of major social and political transformation—including mounting dissent against a brutal regime, the privatization of health care, advances in science, the growing gap between rich and poor, and the Islamization of public space. She will ask what implications this has for an “Islamic Bioethics” in general.
Four-urn catenary model for excretion*

A chain-like arrangement of four urns (a catenary system) into which different color balls (white, corresponding to radio atoms, and black, corresponding to stable atoms) are being transferred is used to simulate the transport of atoms down the GI tract of man and animals. Into the first urn (stomach) are placedw o white balls andr black balls while in the 2nd (small intestines) and 3rd (large intestines) urn, onlyr blacks are put in, with no whites. A sample of sizer is transferred from the 1st, 2nd and 3rd urns to the 2nd, 3rd and 4th (infinite universe) urns. From the random variable difference equations the first and second moments for the distribution of the number of radio atoms present in each urn are obtained. The variance of the contents of radioatoms in the excretion urn is
Discrete morphological size distributions and densities: estimation techniques and applications

Morphological size distributions and densities are frequently used as descriptors of granularity or texture within an image. They have been successfully employed in a number of image processing and analysis tasks, including shape analysis, multiscale shape representation, texture classification, and noise filtering. In most cases however it is not possible to analytically compute these quantities. In this paper, we study the problem of estimating the (discrete) morphological size distribution and density of random images, by means of empirical as well as Monte Carlo estimators. Theoretical and experimental results demonstrate clear superiority of the Monte Carlo estimation approach. Examples illustrate the usefulness of the proposed estimators in traditional image processing and analysis problems.
Eocene basalts from the Yakutat terrane: Evidence for the origin of an accreting terrane in southern Alaska

Basalts from the Yakutat terrane, a composite oceanic and continental tectonostratigraphic terrane, are chemically diverse large ion lithophile element (LILE)–depleted and LILE-enriched tholeiites, interpreted as normal mid-ocean ridge and oceanic island basalt, that originated on seamounts near the Kula-Farallon spreading center during the early to middle Eocene. Coeval and geochemically similar basalts, occurring sporadically in a linear belt from southern Vancouver Island to the southern Oregon Coast Range, are correlative with the Yakutat terrane basalts. Both basaltic sequences were accreted to the continental margin during subduction of the Kula-Farallon Ridge and Kula plate about 48 Ma. The Yakutat basalts were emplaced along the coast of Washington or British Columbia. The Yakutat terrane probably originated during the Neogene as a composite terrane when it was sliced off the continental margin and started to move northward along the Queen Charlotte-Fairweather transform fault toward its present location in southern Alaska.
Hand preferences in sign-learning students with autistic disorder.

The purpose of the study was fourfold: (a) to document the hand preferences of nonspeaking individuals with autism as they produced signs and nonsign actions; (b) to find out if sign-language proficiency in such individuals is associated with directionality or consistency of signing hand preference; (c) to explore the link between hand preference for signing and standardised measures of cognitive and motor development; (d) to compare the hand preferences (sign and nonsign actions) of such individuals to sign-learning children with normal cognitive functioning. In this study, the hand preferences of 14 nonspeaking students with autistic disorder were determined from videotape records of their sign production and nonsign actions. In their sign production, four students strongly favoured their right hands, four had a distinct left-hand preference, and six did not significantly favour either hand. There was little evidence linking sign-language proficiency, cognitive maturity, or motor development to strongly...
Fusarium hostae sp. nov., a relative of F. redolens with a Gibberella teleomorph.

Fusarium hostae sp. nov. causes Fusarium root and crown rot of container-grown hosta plants. Morphology, pathogenicity and molecular analyses based on sequences from portions of beta-tubulin and translation elongation factor 1-or genes indicate that this species is closely related to but distinct from F redolens Wollenw. Fusarium hostae can be distin-
Business and Politics: A Study of Collective Action

Based on a survey of all national business associations, and interviews with many interest-group executives, Business and Politics outlines the wide variety of roles assumed by interest groups in the Canadian policy process. Coleman argues that the present fragmention of business interests makes consultation with major socio-economic producer groups highly unlikely. Instead, adjustment takes place as a series of ad hoc bailouts related to an electoral calculus rather than to a more reflective consideration of the longer-term evolution of the Canadian economy and the relative economic position of Canadians. As there are no organizations that prompt business to take a broad look at its responsibilities to society at large, some economic policy options that political leaders might want to consider are ruled out. Attempts to redress difficulties in the Canadian economy and social welfare system consequently suffer. Coleman concludes that the business community is not appropriately accountable to Canadians for its actions, nor is it sufficiently organized to assume the political responsibilities that come with the private economic power it possesses. He argues that Canada could benefit from examining models of the political institutions in smaller European states and adopting some of their solutions for reform in this country.
The corticotropin-releasing hormone stimulation test: a possible aid in the evaluation of patients with adrenal insufficiency

Ten patients with adrenal insufficiency receiving chronic glucocorticoid therapy were studied. All had subnormal plasma cortisol responses to ovine corticotropin-releasing hormone ( CRH ) (1 microgram/kg as an iv bolus) 12-60 h after discontinuation of steroid treatment. Plasma ACTH responses to CRH fell into three different patterns. The first three patients with primary adrenal insufficiency had high basal ACTH levels and augmented ACTH responses to CRH . A fourth such patient, however, treated with pharmacologic doses of prednisone, had a low normal ACTH response. Patients with secondary adrenal insufficiency had either low basal ACTH levels and diminished responses to CRH or low basal ACTH values but prolonged and augmented plasma ACTH responses to CRH with a delayed peak. We postulate that the group of patients with the former pattern have pituitary gland destruction whereas the patients with the latter pattern have hypothalamic CRH deficiency. Thus, CRH may be useful in differentiating between hypothalamic and pituitary causes of adrenal insufficiency.
Samuel R. Friedman on Francisco Bastos’ “Structural Violence in the Context of Drug Policy and Initiatives Aiming to Reduce Drug-Related Harm in Contemporary Brazil: A Review”

There are many forms of structural violence in the world and in Brazil. These include the massive brutalities of hunger and starvation, of environmental destruction, of necessity-induced working at...
Hypersonic aerodynamics of nonaxisymmetric boattailed bodies

Results and Discussion Drag measurements (CA1 and CD>2) vs yaw angle are shown for untripped and tripped flow in Fig. 2. The results in Fig. 2a, RS/D = Q.Q and 0B = 30 deg, indicate that transverse rectangular grooves and longitudinal v-grooves (both orientations) are beneficial in reducing CDtl and CD2 for yaw angles up to about 25 deg for both untripped and tripped flow. Fig. 2b, RS/D = 0.5 and 6B = 30 deg, shows that by increasing the shoulder radius, thereby reducing the drag and extent of separation on the ungrooved configuration, the grooves (longitudinal and transverse) are less beneficial. In fact, for tripped flow the grooves impose a penalty over a range of yaw from 0 to 30 deg. In the case of untripped flow, drag reductions are seen up to about 25 deg of yaw, depending on the groove selection. But a configuration that reduces drag at low yaw angles may increase the drag at higher yaw angles and vice versa. Only the effect of the longitudinal v-grooves were investigated for RS/D = 0.0 and 6B = 90 deg as shown in Fig. 2c. It is seen that significant reductions in drag can be achieved by the use of four equally spaced longitudinal v-grooves. However, the orientation of the grooves with respect to the plane of yaw is obviously critical, since the orientation with opposite grooves in the plane of yaw indicates drag levels generally as high or higher than the ungrooved case while the x-orientation shows large drag reductions. It should be emphasized that these data and trends are shown only for a Reynolds number of 150,000 based on body diameter. At other Reynolds numbers the comparisons could be very different and possibly even reversed since the effect of the grooves (especially the transverse ones) on drag can be very sensitive to Reynolds number.'
Batch Mode Active Learning for Multimedia Pattern Recognition

Multimedia applications like face recognition and facial expression recognition inherently rely on the availability of a large amount of labeled data to train a robust recognition system. In order to induce a reliable classification model for a multimedia pattern recognition application, the data is typically labeled by human experts based on some domain knowledge. However, manual annotation of a large number of images is an expensive process in terms of time, labor and human expertise. This has led to the development of active learning algorithms, which automatically identify the salient instances from a given set of unlabeled data and are effective in reducing the human annotation effort to train a classification model. Further, to address the possible presence of multiple labeling oracles, there have been efforts towards a batch form of active learning, where a set of unlabeled images are selected simultaneously for labeling instead of a single image at a time. Existing algorithms on batch mode active learning concentrate only on the development of a batch selection criterion and assume that the batch size (number of samples to be queried from an unlabeled set) to be specified in advance. However, in multimedia applications like face/facial expression recognition, it is difficult to decide on a batch size in advance because of the dynamic nature of video streams. Further, multimedia applications like facial expression recognition involve a fuzzy label space because of the imprecision and the vagueness in the class label boundaries. This necessitates a BMAL framework, for fuzzy label problems. To address these fundamental challenges, we propose two novel BMAL techniques in this work: (i) a framework for dynamic batch mode active learning, which adaptively selects the batch size and the specific instances to be queried based on the complexity of the data stream being analyzed and (ii) a BMAL algorithm for fuzzy label classification problems. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to develop such techniques in the active learning literature.
Randomization Analysis of Experimental Data: The Fisher Randomization Test

Abstract R.A. Fisher's classic text on the design of experiments is the principal source of inspiration for a mode of data interpretation that is usually characterized as randomization analysis. In Chapter III of this text, Fisher briefly commented on how to make a randomization test on some data generated by a Darwin experiment. Two variants of this randomization test are discussed in this article. The variant that is discussed in Section 4 may be regarded as the forerunner of all nonparametric tests. The original variant of the test is discussed in Section 6. The author concludes that the Fisher randomization test is not logically viable.
In It for the Long Haul: Lessons from a Decade of Assessment.

This paper analyzes student evaluations of library orientation and information literacy instruction over a ten-year period, 2002 to 2011. The survey respondents were five hundred students who were taking or had just completed their first course in LEEP, the distance education option of the M.S. program at the University of Illinois. This case study describes the LEEP program and library services for it, focusing on the librarian-led information literacy activities that are integrated into the students’ initial ten-day on-campus residency. Student-centered assessment data has informed decisions to modify, replace, or retain components of the information literacy program, as several examples illustrate. This case study re-visits three factors identified in an earlier analysis as influencing both the demand for library services and their successful provision. Finally, this study examines the assessment process itself and shares insights about response rates, multi-year data, small-scale evaluation, and the p...
Hole-spectrum representation and model-based optimal morphological restoration of binary images degraded by subtractive noise

A shape-based image representation grounded on the distribution of holes within an image is developed, and the manner in which this representation can be used to design optimal morphological filters to restore images suffering from subtractive-noise degradation is investigated. The image and noise models are predicated on the existence of some class of shape primitives into which both image and noise can be decomposed (relative to union), and this decomposition is developed within the framework of a general algebraic paradigm for component-based filtering that does not depend on the linear-space structure typically used in spectral representations. Both deterministic and nondeterministic models are considered, and in each case the necessary model constraints are fully explored. Moreover, the type of filters that are naturally compatible with the image-noise models are analyzed. Specifically, optimal morphological filter design is studied in terms of the shape-based hole spectrum (as linear filter design is studied in terms of the frequency spectrum). Various forms of a design algorithm are discussed, the particulars depending on a symmetric-difference error analysis yielding approximate error expressions in terms of the spectral decomposition and the geometry of the underlying shape primitives. Finally, the statistical estimation procedures required for practical implementation of the entire spectrum-filter paradigm are explained.
Improving cancer pain management in communities : Main results from a randomized controlled trial

The purpose of this randomized controlled community trial is to evaluate the effects of a community intervention utilizing opinion leaders and educational strategies on the cancer pain management knowledge, attitudes, and the practices of physicians and nurses, and cancer pain reported by patients. Six Minnesota communities participated in the study. The three communities randomized to the intervention received educational programs over 15 months. The clinical community opinion leaders participated in a minifellowship, developed community task forces, and interacted with their peers. This strategy was reinforced with community outreach programs, clinical practice guidelines, educational materials, and media events. The primary study end point was patients' pain intensity score. Comparing intervention to control communities, pain prevalence declined slightly, pain management index improved slightly, pain intensity scores increased slightly, patient and family attitude scores did not change, and physicians' and nurses' knowledge and attitude scores improved slightly. None of these changes, however, reached statistical significance. Participation in at least one intervention program improved physicians' and nurses' knowledge and attitude scores that approached statistical significance. Our results suggest that community opinion leaders combined with other educational programs may improve cancer pain management, but this strategy requires further study. The results suggest that more intense intervention application may be effective. Effective strategies to improve cancer pain management remain elusive.
Monitoring proteolysis during Cheddar cheese ripening using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis

A 2-D gel electrophoretic method, consisting of isoelectric focusing and alkaline urea-PAGE was used to monitor proteolysis during ripening (180d, 5°C and 8°C) of full- and reduced-fat Cheddar cheese. The method enabled quantifying changes in levels of peptides in cheese with good spot-resolution. Results can complement those from other analyses, especially those for determining low MW peptides. Notable effects were found for cheese composition and ripening temperature on gel pattern and on relative levels of selected proteolysis products. In both cheese varieties, most peptides reached a maximum during the first 3 ripening months and gradually disappeared as ripening advanced.
Management of congenital tracheal anomalies and laryngotracheoesophageal clefts

Congenital obstructions and anomalies of the pediatric airway are rare problems that may be associated with mild symptoms or critical stenoses that may be life threatening in the first few days of life. This review provides an overview of the embryologic development of the airway, different congenital anomalies associated with airway development, and surgical correction that may be associated with good long-term outcome.
Influence of chronic exercise on carotid atherosclerosis in marathon runners

Objectives The effect of habitual, high-intensity exercise training on the progression of atherosclerosis is unclear. We assessed indices of vascular health (central systolic blood pressure (SBP) and arterial stiffness as well as carotid intima-medial thickness (cIMT)) in addition to cardiovascular risk factors of trained runners versus their untrained spouses or partners to evaluate the impact of exercise on the development of carotid atherosclerosis. Setting field study at Boston Marathon. Participants 42 qualifiers (mean age±SD: 46±13 years, 21 women) for the 2012 Boston Marathon and their sedentary domestic controls (46±12 years, n=21 women). Outcomes We measured medical and running history, vital signs, anthropometrics, blood lipids, C reactive protein (CRP), 10 years Framingham risk, central arterial stiffness and SBP and cIMT. Results Multiple cardiovascular risk factors, including CRP, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, heart rate, body weight and body mass index (all p 0.31) and were associated with age (all r≥0.41; p 0.08 for interactions). The amplification of the central pressure waveform (augmentation pressure at heart rate 75 bpm) was also not different between the two groups (p=0.07) but was related to age (p Conclusions Habitual endurance exercise improves the cardiovascular risk profile, but does not reduce the magnitude of carotid atherosclerosis associated with age and cardiovascular risk factors.
Regional Exchange Rate Indexes for the United States

In this paper we construct exchange rate indexes for the nine U.S. Bureau of the Census regions. The results indicate there are nontrivial differences between them and an identically created overall U.S. exchange rate index. The national index is cointegrated with only two of these regional indexes, and in a Granger sense, it is causing one regional index. In addition, our results indicate that two of the regional exchange rate indexes are interchangeable with the national index. These results show that researchers investigating how exchange rate changes affect regional exports or regional economic growth should be cautious in making inferences based upon a national exchange rate index.
A framework for installable external tools in Skyline

Summary: Skyline is a Windows client application for targeted proteomics method creation and quantitative data analysis. The Skyline document model contains extensive mass spectrometry data from targeted proteomics experiments performed using selected reaction monitoring, parallel reaction monitoring and data-independent and data-dependent acquisition methods. Researchers have developed software tools that perform statistical analysis of the experimental data contained within Skyline documents. The new external tools framework allows researchers to integrate their tools into Skyline without modifying the Skyline codebase. Installed tools provide point-and-click access to downstream statistical analysis of data processed in Skyline. The framework also specifies a uniform interface to format tools for installation into Skyline. Tool developers can now easily share their tools with proteomics researchers using Skyline. Availability and implementation: Skyline is available as a single-click self-updating web installation at http://skyline.maccosslab.org. This Web site also provides access to installable external tools and documentation. Contact: ude.notgnihsaw.u@xnadnerb Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Human interaction support in HP SynerVision for SoftBench

The paper describes how human/tool and human/human interactions are supported in the SynerVision for SoftBench process enactment tool from Hewlett-Packard. The scope is not limited to enactment time, due to a feature of SynerVision which allows process enactors to simultaneously be process designers. Questions that are touched on briefly include: what is the relationship between humans and the framework? How are humans and tools modeled in the software process? What does the formalism allow one to specify (roles, goals, other)? How should humans be handled or supported in the process? How are interactions modeled in the software process?.
Human antibody responses to VlsE antigenic variation protein of Borrelia burgdorferi

VlsE is a 35-kDa surface-exposed lipoprotein of Borrelia burgdorferi that was shown previously to undergo antigenic variation through segmental recombination of silent vls cassettes with vlsE during experimental mouse infections. Previous data had indicated that sera from North American Lyme disease patients and experimentally infected animals contained antibodies reactive with VlsE. In this study, sera from patients with Lyme disease, syphilis, and autoimmune conditions as well as from healthy controls were examined for reactivity with VlsE by Western blotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Strong Western blot reactivity to a recombinant VlsE cassette region protein was obtained consistently with Lyme disease sera. Although sera from Lyme disease patients also reacted with a band corresponding to VlsE in B. burgdorferi B31-5A3, interpretation was complicated by low levels of VlsE expression in in vitro-cultured B. burgdorferi and by the presence of comigrating bands. An ELISA using recombinant VlsE was compared with an ELISA using sonically disrupted B. burgdorferi as the antigen. For a total of 93 Lyme disease patient sera examined, the VlsE ELISA yielded sensitivities of 63% for culture-confirmed erythema migrans cases and 92% for later stages, as compared to 61 and 98%, respectively, for the "whole-cell" ELISA. The specificities of the two assays with healthy blood donor sera were comparable, but the VlsE ELISA was 90% specific with sera from syphilis patients, compared to 20% specificity for the whole-cell ELISA with this group. Neither assay showed reactivity with a panel of sera from 20 non-Lyme disease arthritis patients or 20 systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Our results indicate that VlsE may be useful in the immunodiagnosis of Lyme disease and may offer greater specificity than ELISAs using whole B. burgdorferi as the antigen.
Semiconductor manufacturing: decision analysis for fab site selection

A decision analysis model that facilitates the assessment of a multi-criteria decision from among a variety of competing alternatives is presented in this paper. The model is tested for sensitivity and found to be robust when one criterion is changed while others are held constant. The decision itself is related to locating a semiconductor manufacturing plant in one of many equally attractive and equally problematic sites worldwide. It is essentially a problem under conditions of near-certainty with no EMV or payback considerations by construction. The decision analysis described herein is a data-driven methodology with a two-step process where an algorithm is used to narrow down the choice of locations from a starting count of eight to a more manageable group of five. In the second step of the process, a decision model is defined and implemented. Hierarchical decision modelling is used in this study to disaggregate the complex decision into its component parts, to quantify and normalise judgements and to assign weights to the decision alternatives to obtain the proper result.