cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Consumer Response to Overstyling: Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality in Product Design

Aesthetic design, or styling, is an important product attribute in today's retail environment, especially when functional demands have been met (Chitturi, Raghunathan, & Mahajan, 2007; Hoegg, Alba, & Dahl, 2010). This research note, however, focuses on consumer responses to products when perceived functionality is low. Ideally, high styling is combined with high functionality, but perceived trade‐offs may arise when styling appears to conflict with functionality. This research highlights some implications of these trade‐offs and emphasizes that they depend on usage context. Specifically, the authors demonstrate that styling can compensate for minor, but not major, flaws in functionality (Study 1). Further, the influence of styling on perceived functionality and product evaluation is less (vs. more) favorable in a utilitarian (vs. hedonic) context (Study 2). Key insights for managers based on this research are discussed.
Firing Costs and Decoupling of Technological Invention and Post-invention Investments

We show that employment protection laws, which increase firing costs, decouple invention and post-invention investment by reducing the coordination benefits of collocation. The decoupling played a ...
Increase of Graft Diameter

On occasion, as the posterior portion of the anastomosis is being completed, one can tell that the graft is too small for the aorta. One can increase the circumference of the graft in order to match the aorta more closely.
Side chain specificity of ADP-ribosylation by a sirtuin

Endogenous mono-ADP-ribosylation in eukaryotes is involved in regulating protein synthesis, signal transduction, cytoskeletal integrity, and cell proliferation, although few cellular ADP-ribosyltransferases have been identified. The sirtuins constitute a highly conserved family of protein deacetylases, and several family members have also been reported to perform protein ADP-ribosylation. We characterized the ADP-ribosylation reaction of the nuclear sirtuin homolog Trypanosoma brucei SIR2-related protein 1 (TbSIR2RP1) on both acetylated and unacetylated substrates. We demonstrated that an acetylated substrate is not required for ADP-ribosylation to occur, indicating that the reaction performed by TbSIR2RP1 is a genuine enzymatic reaction and not a side reaction of deacetylation. Biochemical and MS data showed that arginine is the major ADP-ribose acceptor for unacetylated substrates, whereas arginine does not appear to be the major ADP-ribose acceptor in reactions with acetylated histone H1.1. We performed combined ab initio quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical molecular dynamics simulations, which indicated that sirtuin ADP-ribosylation at arginine is energetically feasible, and involves a concerted mechanism with a highly dissociative transition state. In comparison with the corresponding nicotinamide cleavage in the deacetylation reaction, the simulations suggest that sirtuin ADP-ribosylation would be several orders slower but less sensitive to nicotinamide inhibition, which is consistent with experimental results. These results suggest that TbSIR2RP1 can perform ADP-ribosylation using two distinct mechanisms, depending on whether or not the substrate is acetylated. Structured digital abstract • MINT-7288298: TbSIR2 (uniprotkb:O96670) adp ribosylates (MI:0557) histone H1.1 (uniprotkb:Q02539) by enzymatic studies (MI:0415) • MINT-7288305, MINT-7288325, MINT-7288338, MINT-7288352, MINT-7288370, MINT-7288395, MINT-7288412: TbSIR2 (uniprotkb:O96670) adp ribosylates (MI:0557) histone H1.1 (uniprotkb:P02253) by enzymatic studies (MI:0415) • MINT-7288385: TbSIR2 (uniprotkb:O96670) deacetylates (MI:0197) histone H1.1 (uniprotkb:Q02539) by deacetylase assay (MI:0406) • MINT-7288424: hADPRH (uniprotkb:P54922) cleaves (MI:0194) histone H1.1 (uniprotkb:Q02539) by enzymatic studies (MI:0415)
Working in Distributed Teams: Challenges, Best Practices, and Guidelines

In this paper, we discuss the different challenges faced by offshore software development engineering teams – starting with the incubation period to ongoing development – from the team members’ perspective. We also discuss actions taken to overcome the obstacles, and extrapolate some of the best practices and guidelines from the authors’ own experience of working for more than a decade in distributed teams in multinational companies.
The validity of biochemical markers in metabolic bone disease in preterm infants: a systematic review.

UNLABELLED To establish the validity of biochemical markers of metabolic bone disease (MBD) in preterm infants. CONCLUSION There is insufficient evidence that any of the frequently used serum measurements are valid biochemical markers of MBD in preterm infants. Increased urinary calcium concentration may be a valid biochemical marker, but more research is necessary to confirm this.
Just a Little Bit of History Repeating: The California Model of Marijuana Legalization and How it Might Affect Racial and Ethnic Minorities

IV. Is Legislation such as California’s Marijuana Control Act the Answer for Minority Communities? 576 A. Productivity Concerns 578 B. What About Potency Regulation? 579 C. The Money Drain from Minority Communities 581 D. Federal Collateral Sanctions Would Still Exist with State Legalization 583 E. Will Legalization Predispose Minority Youth for Future Use? 586
Genetic fuzzy classification fusion of multiple SVMs for biomedical data

Classification of biomedical data faces a special challenge because of the characteristics of the data: too few data examples with too many features. How to improve the classification performance or the generalization ability of a classifier in the biomedical domain becomes one of the active research areas. One approach is to build a fusion model to combine multiple classifiers together and result in a combined classifier which can achieve a better performance than any of its composing individual classifiers. In this paper, we propose a SVM classifier fusion model to combine multiple SVMs by applying the knowledge of fuzzy logic and genetic algorithms. The fuzzy logic system (FLS) is constructed based on SVM accuracies and distances of data examples to SVM hyperplanes in SVM feature spaces. A genetic algorithm (GA) is used to tune the fuzzy membership functions (MFs) in the FLS and determine the optimal fuzzy fusion model. We have applied the proposed model to two biomedical data: colon tumor data and ovarian cancer data. Our experiment shows that multiple SVM classifiers complement each other well in the proposed fusion model and the ensemble achieves a better, more robust and more reliable performance than individual composing SVMs.
Infant mortality at the Cook County Hospital among sixteen thousand deliveries

I N THE past twenty-five years, there has been a definite improvement in the death rate of infants during the first year of life. The mortality at birth and during the neonatal period has remained practically unchanged. As a result of improved prenatal care and supervision some reduction in the neonatal death rate has been achieved. There are still many intrapartum and neonatal deaths due to ill-timed, ill-chosen, and unnecessary operative procedures. Unfortunately there has been in the recent literature an indication of a tendency in the direction of more active operative interference in labor, the wisdom of which can be seriously called into question. A statistical survey of the infant mortality at the Cook County Hospital was made to analyze the results of what may be regarded as a conservative policy in this department with respect to operative procedures including delivery by cesarean section. True conservatism consists as much in the performance of operations properly selected and performed as it does in a well-considered policy of allowing the patient to deliver spontaneously. In a study of infant mortality the question as to whether too many or too few operative deliveries are performed can only be answered by a consideration of the number of infants lost who could have been saved by some operative procedure without undue risk to the mother. Normal deliveries are conducted by the internes under the supervision of the resident physician. Analgesias are rarely used beeaus~ of the expense involved and the limitation of personnel. Inhalation anesthesia is used only when operative procedures require it. Local infiltration with 1~ per cent novocaine is used for the performance of episiotomy and repair of lacerations. Frequently, in selected cases, prudendal nerve block is resorted to, for the performance of simple operative procedures. As in all large charity institutions, Cook County Hospital accepts patients who have had no prenatal care; patients who have been referred from clinics other than that associated with the Hospital, because of complications of pregnancy or labor; and many patients who have been under the care of private physicians or midwives and are admitted to the Hospital as emergencies. This survey covers a four.year period, 1933 to 1936 inclusive, during which time 16,242 babies were delivered, including 184 sets of twins. Of the 16,058 mothers delivered, 10,016 attended the Cook County
Design of programmable embedded IF source for design self-test

A programmable embedded IF source has been designed for embedded communication self-test using an on-chip memory block, a shifter register, and a noise-shaping filter. An on-chip memory element is programmed with software-generated delta-sigma modulated code. The frequency of the IF source is programmable by using a variable on-chip clock generator. The design simulation shows 45 dB single-tone SFDR with a 1200 /spl mu/m /spl times/ 900 /spl mu/m chip area. Another improved design is in progress, which is implemented with analog FIR filtering techniques. This approach relaxes the design specifications for noise shaping filters, yielding a smaller circuit.
The etiology of computerphobia

Abstract Computerphobics, Uncomfortable Computer Users, and Control Group subjects were interviewed on their retrospective computer and mechanical experiences, personality style, and media influence on the development of computer feelings. Results indicated that psychological reactions to early mechanical and computer experiences differed between the three groups with etiological roots of computerphobia evident as early as childhood. Gender and attitude of the technology “introducer” were important in predicting later psychological reactions to computers. Computerphobics appeared to suffer from a more generalized “technophobia” while Uncomfortable Computer Users were apprehensive only about computers. Personality styles differed only slightly between the three groups with Computerphobics being less persistent in problem solving and less likely to seek assistance. Prevention and intervention implications include: effective nonevaluative introduction of technology in the school system by “introducers” who are comfortable and skilled with computer technology; and identification and treatment of current Computerphobics.
Thioredoxin and enzyme regulation

Abstract Thioredoxin, a hydrogen carrier protein that functions in DNA synthesis and in the transformation of sulfur metabolites, has recently been found to serve as a regulatory protein in linking light to the activation of enzymes during photosynthesis.
TRANSPORTATION ASSET MANAGEMENT: THE VALUE OF ENTERPRISE-BASED FINANCIAL REPORTING

The adoption of enterprise-based financial reporting practices in the public transportation infrastructure has the potential to facilitate the use of profitability analysis and, thus, the management of public transportation infrastructure assets. However, a major challenge for successful implementation is the ability to generate in a public setting what the Governmental Accounting Standards Board refers to as "satisfactory" system input values. Because market prices are not generated in these environments, they must be simulated. Two promising approaches for generating such measurements are reviewed: benefit-cost analysis and econometric studies of the productivity impacts of infrastructure investments (on productivity studies). Although the two approaches are subject to several weaknesses that inhibit them from generating satisfactory system input values, ongoing methodological advances in both indicate fair prospects for generating such values in the future. Therefore, a dismissal of enterprise financia...
Ecology of Culex tarsalis (Diptera: Culicidae): factors influencing larval abundance in mesocosms in Southern California.

Colonization and succession of mosquitoes and macroinvertebrate predators were studied in 30-m2 ponds (mesocosms) during summer and fall 1987. Larval abundance of Cx. tarsalis Coquillette was lower during the hot, summer months than during the fall. In all studies, larval populations declined markedly 2-3 wk after habitat flooding. Although predator abundances differed in these studies, sometimes by an order of magnitude, the common predators colonized mesocosms in the following order: Triops, hydrophilid beetle larvae, dytiscid beetle larvae, mesoveliids, dragonfly and damselfly naiads, and notonectids. The similarity of the colonization phenologies probably resulted from the vagility of the adult insects and species-specific developmental rates. Stepwise multiple regression was used to identify factors potentially affecting larval mosquito populations. For most studies, coleopteran larvae were related inversely to per capita change in the entire larval population and the third- and fourth-instar subpopulation (i.e., large coleopteran larval populations were associated with large declines in the Cx. trasalis larval population). Maximum water temperatures and pond age (days after flooding) also were identified as significant factors affecting larval abundance and per capita change of mosquitoes. Potentially lethal water temperatures (greater than or equal to 35 degrees C) occurred during the summer; however, the declines in larval abundance of Cx. tarsalis were not restricted to (or obviously associated with) periods of high water temperature. Our results indicated that predation by coleopteran larvae and factor(s) associated with pond age, such as mosquito ovipositional preferences, significantly affected Cx. tarsalis larval populations.
Differential effects of serial hemodilution with hydroxyethyl starch, albumin, and 0.9% saline on whole blood coagulation

Abstract Study Objectives: To determine by thrombelastography assessed coagulation, the effects of progressive hemodilution with three intravascular volume expanders. Design: Prospective, controlled, whole blood, volumetric ex vivo hemodilution study. Setting: University of Pennsylvania Medical Center Operating Rooms. Patients: 60 ASA physical status I and II patients; phlebotomy prior to administration of IV fluids or medications. Interventions: Analysis of whole blood clotting determined by six thrombelastographic channels for control and five volumetric hemodilutions (11%, 25%, 33%, 50%, and 75%) with 0.9% saline, 5% albumin, and 6% hydroxyethyl starch (n = 20 for each diluent group). Measurements and Main Results: Thrombelastographic parameters R (minutes), angle α (°), MA (mm), and lysis (%) were measured and compared to the sample control for each dilution of the same specimen. There was no significant difference between control groups in any thrombelastographic variable (R, angle α, MA, or lysis). No changes were seen in any variable from any diluent at 11% hemodilution. Seventy-five percent hemodilution caused significantly hypocoagulable changes from control for all thrombelastographic parameters for all three diluents. Thrombelastographic indices differed significantly from controls at intermediate hemodilutions. Both colloids caused decreases in measured angle α and MA at lower hemodilution than did 0.9% saline. Albumin 5% caused significant hypocoagulable changes from control values at lower hemodilution than did either 0.9% saline or 6% hydroxyethyl starch for all thrombelastographic parameters. Saline 0.9% increased angle α significantly at 50% hemodilution. Abnormal lysis did not occur at any dilution. Differing ex vivo effects of three different intravascular fluids thrombelastography assessed coagulation are found. Conclusion: No differences were found after 11% hemodilution with any volume expanders. Hemodilution with up to 50% saline maintained thrombelastographic indices. Albumin produced early and profound hypocoagulable effects. Significant hypocoagulability occurred for all three diluents at 75% hemodilution. The study supports the use of albumin in patients at risk for thrombosis, and saline in patients with a need for normal hemostasis.
Characteristics and mechanisms of azithromycin accumulation and efflux in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes

Azithromycin achieves prolonged, high tissue concentrations in spite of low serum levels and obviously must be active at tissue sites of infection to be effective. These unique features prompted us to evaluate the interactions of azithromycin and human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN). Uptake of radiolabeled antibiotic by PMN was determined by a velocity-gradient centrifugation technique and expressed as the ratio of cellular to extracellular drug concentration (C/E). Azithromycin was massively accumulated by human PMN (C/E=387.2 at 2 h). Uptake was not influenced by inhibitors of cellular metabolism, but phagocytosis slightly inhibited the entry of azithromycin into PMN. After removal of extracellular drug, the release (efflux) of azithromycin from PMN was extremely slow. Agents which neutralize lysosomal pH, preventing protonation and trapping of azithromycin, markedly increased antibiotic efflux. Active concentration and prolonged retention of azithromycin by phagocytic cells should allow delivery and subsequent release of accumulated drug at sites of infection.
Adaptive feature extraction and SVM classification for real-time fault diagnosis of drivetrain gearboxes

Drivetrain gearboxes play an important role in many modern industrial applications. This paper presents a novel method consisting of adaptive feature extraction and support vector machine (SVM)-based classification for condition monitoring and fault diagnosis of drivetrain gearboxes operating in variable-speed conditions. An adaptive signal resampling algorithm, a frequency tracker, and a feature generation algorithm are integrated in the proposed method for effective extraction of the features of gearbox faults from the stator current signal of the AC electric machine connected to the gearbox. A radial basis function kernel-SVM classifier is designed to identify the fault in the gearbox according to the fault features extracted. Experimental studies are performed for a drivetrain gearbox with a gear crack fault connected with a permanent magnet synchronous machine. Results show that the fault can be effectively identified by the proposed method.
A novel genetic region flanks the plasmid-carried blaNDM-1 isolated from a patient in Rhode Island in 2012.

As of February 2013, 24 cases of New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM)-producing Enterobacteriaceae have been reported in the United States ([1][1]). The majority of these reports involved one or two isolates, except the most recent, in which eight patients were reportedly infected or colonized ([1
Is it just talk? Understanding and evaluating intergroup dialogue

Intergroup dialogues are lauded as a way to increase understanding and reduce prejudice, but a limited amount of published research explores the effectiveness of these processes. This article examines the evaluation of a yearlong dialogue program for African American and Jewish high school students, considering both consistently found attitudinal changes and others that appear dependent on the nature and extent of relationships formed among dialogue participants.
Theory of photorefractive phase-conjugate ring oscillators

We consider bidirectional oscillations in phase-conjugate ring oscillators in which a photorefractive medium that is pumped by a pair of counterpropagating beams provides the gain. The results are presented and discussed.
Impact of segmental grafts on pediatric liver transplantation—A review of the United Network for Organ Sharing Scientific registry data (1990–1996)

Abstract Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the relative impact of segmental grafts from cadaveric and living donors on outcomes in 3,409 pediatric transplants ( Methods: Analysis of the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) Scientific registry data from 1990 to 1996 was performed. Results: Liver grafts consisted of 2,636 whole grafts (WLG), 246 liver donor grafts (LDG), 89 split liver graft (SLG), and 438 reduced-size grafts (RSG). Although the number of pediatric transplants were unchanged between 1990 and 1996, segmental grafts made up an increasing proportion from 14.5% to 29.2%, and WLG decreased proportionately. The increase among segmental grafts occurred for LDG (threefold), followed by SLG (53%) and RSG (50%). One-year graft and patient survival rates for 3,409 transplants were 69.7% and 81.9%, respectively and were significantly higher ( P v 61.0% and 73.7%). LDG graft survival (75.9%) was comparable with WLG(70.9%) but significantly better at 1 year than SLG (60.3%, P = .007) and RSG (61.1% P = .001), even after excluding retransplants and ICU patients. Patient survival rates were not different statistically between groups. A separate analysis of outcomes in recipients less than 1 year of age suggested significantly better graft and patient survivals for LDG (83.3% and 89.4%) than for WLG (62.3% and 76.5%) and RSG (62.7% and 75%). Conclusions: Segmental liver grafts from cadaveric and living donors constitute an increasing proportion of pediatric transplants. Survival rates of cadaveric segmental graft are inferior to those of live donor segmental grafts even after adjustment for medical condition. Live donor grafts demonstrate consistently superior graft and patient outcomes in pediatric recipients less than 1 year of age, and should be promoted aggressively as a solution to the critical shortage of size matched grafts in small recipients.
2nd U.S.‐Japan Seminar on “High‐Pressure Research: Applications in Geophysics”

The second U.S.-Japan seminar on ‘High-Pressure Research: Applications in Geophysics’ was held in Hakone, Japan, January 12–15, 1981, under the auspices of the U.S.-Japan Cooperative Science Program between the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) and the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). The coconvenors were Syun-iti Akimoto (Japan) and Murli H. Manghnani (USA). The first such seminar was held in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1976. Like the Hawaii seminar, the Hakone seminar was a tremendous success.
Influence of Shipping Container, Preservative, and Breed on Analysis of Milk Components of Shipped Samples

Abstract An average of 50 milk samples from Holsteins and 16 samples from Jersey cows were collected monthly for 11 mo and allocated to one of four treatments: 1) preserved with potassium dichromate and shipped in plastic bags, 2) preserved with bronopol and shipped in plastic bags, 3) preserved with potassium dichromate and shipped in plastic vials, and 4) preserved with bronopol and shipped in plastic vials. Samples were shipped to a DHIA laboratory for determination of milk fat, milk protein, and SCC. Samples shipped in vials preserved with bronopol were statistically higher in milk fat. Overall, milk fat was higher in samples shipped in vials than in those shipped in bags and in shipped samples preserved with bronopol than in those preserved with potassium dichromate. Milk protein was lower for samples shipped in vials than for those shipped in bags but was higher for samples preserved with bronopol than with potassium dichromate. Effects of containers and preservatives were not different for SCC. Overall, shipment of samples in plastic vials using bronopol as a preservative yielded the highest results for the analysis of milk fat, and milk protein and SCC.
Fluid shear stress in trabecular bone marrow due to low-magnitude high-frequency vibration

Abstract Low-magnitude high-frequency (LMHF) loading has recently received attention for its anabolic effect on bone. The mechanism of transmission of the anabolic signal is not fully understood, but evidence indicates that it is not dependent on bone matrix strain. One possible source of signaling is mechanostimulation of the cells in the bone marrow. We hypothesized that the magnitude of the fluid shear stress in the marrow during LMHF loading is in the mechanostimulatory range. As such, the goal of this study was to determine the range of shear stress in the marrow during LMHF vibration. The shear stress was estimated from computational models, and its dependence on bone density, architecture, permeability, marrow viscosity, vibration amplitude and vibration frequency were examined. Three-dimensional finite element models of five trabecular bone samples from different anatomic sites were constructed, and a sinusoidal velocity profile was applied to the models. In human bone models during axial vibration at an amplitude of 1 g, more than 75% of the marrow experienced shear stress greater than 0.5 Pa. In comparison, in vitro studies indicate that fluid induced shear stress in the range of 0.5 to 2.0 Pa is anabolic to a variety of cells in the marrow. Shear stress at the bone-marrow interface was as high as 5.0 Pa. Thus, osteoblasts and bone lining cells that are thought to reside on the endosteal surfaces may experience very high shear stress during LMHF loading. However, a more complete understanding of the location of the various cell populations in the marrow is needed to quantify the effects on specific cell types. This study suggests the shear stress within bone marrow in real trabecular architecture during LMHF vibration could provide the mechanical signal to marrow cells that leads to bone anabolism.
Seismic attenuation of the inner core: Viscoelastic or stratigraphic?

Broadband velocity waveforms of PKIKP in the distance range 150° to 180° are inverted for inner core attenuation. A mean Qα of 244 is determined at 1 Hz from 8 polar and 9 equatorial paths. The scatter in measured Q−1 exceeds individual error estimates, suggesting significant variation in attenuation with path. These results are interpreted by (1) viscoelasticity, in which the relaxation spectrum has a low-frequency corner near or slightly above the frequency band of short-period body waves, and by (2) stratigraphic (scattering) attenuation, in which attenuation and pulse broadening are caused by the interference of scattered multiples in a velocity structure having rapid fluctuations along a PKIKP path. In the scattering interpretation, PKIKP attenuation is only weakly affected by the intrinsic shear attenuation measured in the free-oscillation band. Instead, its frequency dependence, path variations, and fluctuations are all explained by scattering attenuation in a heterogeneous fabric resulting from solidification texturing of intrinsically anisotropic iron. The requisite fabric may consist of either single or ordered groups of crystals with P velocity differences of at least 5% and as much as 12% between two crystallographic axes at scale lengths of 0.5 to 2 km in the direction parallel to the axis of rotation and longer in the cylindrically radial direction, perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
Contrasting visuomotor functions of tectum and cortex in the golden hamster.

Visually-guided orientation (spatial localization) and visual discrimination were dissociated by means of brain lesions in the golden hamster. After ablation of visual cortex, hamsters failed to discriminate visual patterns, but showed nearly normal ability to localize an object in space by means of vision. Ablation of the superior colliculus produced opposite effects: these animals were completely unable to orient to the position of a visual stimulus, but nevertheless showed excellent pattern discrimination.
A study of user behavior in an immersive virtual environment for digital libraries

In this paper we present a 2x3 factorial design study evaluating the limits and differences on the behavior of 10 users when searching in a virtual reality representation that mimics the arrangement of a traditional library. The focus of this study was the effect of clustering techniques and query highlighting on search strategy users develop in the virtual environment, and whether position or spatial arrangement influenced user behavior. We found several particularities that can be attributed to the differences in the VR environment.This study's results identify: 1) the need of co-designing both spatial arrangement and interaction method; 2) adifficulty novice users faced when using clusters to identify commontopics; 3) the influence of position and distance on users' selection of collection items to inspect; and 4) that users did not search until found the best match, but only until they found a satisfactory match.
Time-optimal path planning in dynamic flows using level set equations: realistic applications

The level set methodology for time-optimal path planning is employed to predict collision-free and fastest-time trajectories for swarms of underwater vehicles deployed in the Philippine Archipelago region. To simulate the multiscale ocean flows in this complex region, a data-assimilative primitive-equation ocean modeling system is employed with telescoping domains that are interconnected by implicit two-way nesting. These data-driven multiresolution simulations provide a realistic flow environment, including variable large-scale currents, strong jets, eddies, wind-driven currents, and tides. The properties and capabilities of the rigorous level set methodology are illustrated and assessed quantitatively for several vehicle types and mission scenarios. Feasibility studies of all-to-all broadcast missions, leading to minimal time transmission between source and receiver locations, are performed using a large number of vehicles. The results with gliders and faster propelled vehicles are compared. Reachability studies, i.e., determining the boundaries of regions that can be reached by vehicles for exploratory missions, are then exemplified and analyzed. Finally, the methodology is used to determine the optimal strategies for fastest-time pick up of deployed gliders by means of underway surface vessels or stationary platforms. The results highlight the complex effects of multiscale flows on the optimal paths, the need to utilize the ocean environment for more efficient autonomous missions, and the benefits of including ocean forecasts in the planning of time-optimal paths.
Bridging the Gap: Modeling the variation due to grain size distribution in CdTe solar cells

In this paper, we develop a multi-scale, hierarchical cell-to-module modeling approach to interpret and predict the effects of average grain size and grain size distribution on the cell efficiency of polycrystalline thin film solar cells, specifically, that of close space sublimated (CSS) CdTe. Our results explain why (1) increasing grain size improves cell performance, (2) the performance saturates beyond a critical grain size, (3) the effect of grain size distribution is averaged over larger length-scales, and therefore, (4) the observed empirical distribution of module efficacy must be attributed to sources other than grain-size distribution.
End-of-life symptoms and care in patients with primary malignant brain tumors: a systematic literature review.

The aim of this study was to review the literature on end-of-life symptoms and end-of-life care of adult patients with high-grade glioma (HGG). Despite aggressive treatment, the survival of HGG patients is limited. Symptom management is paramount to maintain maximum quality of life. The goal of this review is to identify the symptoms and the potential needs of brain tumor patients and their caretakers at the end of life. A systematic literature search in PubMed and Cochrane databases was performed for the years 1946 through August 6th, 2013. A total of 6,196 article citations were identified. Based on predefined criteria, 32 articles were retained for detailed examination. Of these 32 articles, only 7 focused on end-of-life symptoms and interventions. All 7 studies were retrospective and focused on inpatients (3), outpatients (2) or both (2). All but one study involved formal hospice. Drowsiness and loss of consciousness was the most common symptom (1–90 %). Poor communication (64 and 90 %), focal neurological deficits (3–62 %), seizures (3–56 %), dysphagia (7–85 %) and headaches (4–62 %) were also frequent. Only 4 studies reported on palliative interventions. Our systematic review shows that HGG patients in the end-of-life phase have a consistently high symptom burden especially during the last days of life. There is no prospective or conclusive literature describing end-of-life symptom management in HGG patients. Prospective research will be needed to further define symptoms and management in the end-of-life phase.
RECONCILING MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF BIOLOGICAL CLOCKS BY AVERAGING ON APPROXIMATE MANIFOLDS

Although oscillations are typically described in terms of two variables (phase and amplitude), most oscillating systems contain more than two variables. We present a method for approximating the dynamics of the phase and the amplitude of a quasilinear system of three or more variables. This method is used to analyze Goldbeter's five-variable model of the biological circadian (approximately 24-hour period) clock in the fruit fly Drosophila [Proc. Roy. Soc. London B, 261 (1995), pp. 319--324]. Using this method, we show that Forger, Jewett, and Kronauer's mathematical model [J. Biolog. Rhythms, 14 (1999), pp. 532--537] of the human circadian system (based on the van der Pol equation) is almost identical to Goldbeter's model, even though these models were developed independently. This leads to (1) a biochemical analogue of the van der Pol equation, (2) biochemical support for the numerous mathematical models of circadian systems which use the van der Pol equation, and (3) possible evidence of the similarity ...
Effect of chelating agents on uptake of trace metals when chelating agents are applied to soil in contrast to when they are applied to solution cultures

Abstract When metal chelates were applied to soil the concentrations of several trace metals were increased in plants. Similar additions to nutrient solutions usually result in plant reductions in trace metals such as Cu, Zn, Mn, Ni, and Cd. Hypotheses for differential effects between soil and solution are discussed.
Further Characterization of a Transplantable Murine Osteogenic Sarcoma

AbstractA transplantable murine osteogenic sarcoma was characterized to determine its suitability as a model for human cancer and to evaluate specific end points to study therapeutic intervention. Palpable tumors developed at implantation sites following latent periods of 8 to 21 days and grew to 3 g masses within 60 days. The tumor model was predictable in its manner of tumor growth, tumor production of alkaline phosphatase, formation of pulmonary metastases, and the survival of the host. It was found to be sensitive to treatment with cyclophosphamide and vincristine and to a lesser extent to adriamycin and 41-epi-adriamycin. It did not show a response to treatment with cis-platinum, actinomycin D, or m-AMSA. Survival of the host is limited by the progression of metastatic disease and local control does not appreciably extend the median survival time. Thus, population survival should be used as a measure of the effectiveness of treatment of pulmonary metastases. Circulating alkaline phosphatase levels ma...
Role of the macular optical coherence tomography scan in neuro-ophthalmology.

Most clinicians, especially neuro-ophthalmlogists and glaucoma specialists have been trying to understand whether the information yielded by optical coherence tomography (OCT) is really helping them to improve upon the clinical care of their patients. Since its inception, OCT had provided new information about the status of the optic nerve, in terms of axon loss, providing information about the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL). As neuro-ophthalmologists have attempted to incorporate the quantification of RNFL thickness into their decision-making, they have gained new insight into both its clinical usefulness and its limitations. Recently, the use of the macula OCT has helped to further expand the usefulness of OCT in neuro-ophthalmology patients, especially as spectral domain OCT (SD-OCT) has improved resolution and shortened the time for sampling of tissue volume. More advanced image analysis algorithms have improved the ability to segment the retinal layers in the macula, allowing improved detection and differentiation of the cause of visual loss.
Networks, Scale, and Transnational Corporations: The Case of the South Korean Seed Industry

In light of recent theoretical scholarship that has incorporated scale with networks perspectives, this article examines the potential of a scalar networks- based approach to understanding the global strategies and activities of transnational corporations (TNCs), through a comparative case study of two TNCs that were involved in the recent transformation of the South Korean seed industry. The comparative study demonstrates that a foreign TNC's mergers and acquisitions (M&As) of major South Korean seed companies in 1998-1999 in the context of structural adjustment (TNC's material politics of scale) was an outcome of complex relations and the intermingling of various actor-networks that were embedded in various scales. A domestic TNC's responses to the M&As, on the other hand, illustrate how the TNC's struggle to reshape power relations through a discursive politics of scale enabled it to extend and enrich its networks and power relations with farmers, politicians, the general public, and the government. Material and discursive uses of scale in the business strategies of TNCs are shaped by complex actor-networks that are embedded in specific sociocultural and institutional contexts and influence new configurations of networks and power relations, and a scalar networks-based approach helps one understand this complexity of TNCs' activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Collection of uncharged prolate spheroidal aerosol particles by spherical collectors—I: 2D motion

Abstract The dynamics of prolate spheroidal particles are examined in relation to collisions with a 30 μm radius collector droplet. The rotations of the particles along their trajectories are determined for different particle aspect ratios. The initial particle orientation and position with respect to the collector and the particle rotational inertia are found to have strong influences on the collision efficiencies. Large differences in efficiency can occur for particles if the aerodynamic size is defined at different particle orientations. Capture of prolate spheroidal particles on the downstream side of the collector can occur in the absence of attractive forces in contrast to the case of spherical particles.
Northern State Gubernatorial Primary Elections Explaining Voting Turnout

This is a study of the variables affecting turnout of voters in northern state gubernatorial primaries from 1952 to 1980. The dependent variable is turnout in each party's primary as a percentage of turnout for that party in the general election. Two of the most important independent variables are long-term patterns of primary competition and two-party competition, suggesting that voters develop habitual patterns of voting in primaries. Other predictors of turnout are short-term primary competition, the type of primary (open or closed), and (among Republicans) party endorsement of candidates.
Adjuvant Chemotherapy in the Treatment of Localized Medulloblastoma in Children 791

Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common malignant brain tumor of the posterior fossa in children. Surgical excision followed by neuraxis radiation has been the mainstay of therapy for children with localized posterior fossa(PF) MB. This treatment has resulted in a 60-65% long term disease free survival. In an effort to improve the outcome of children with this chemosensitive tumor, some institutions have incorporated adjuvant chemotherapy into the initial therapeutic regimen. Between 5/92 and 1/97, 12 children (mean age 10 years 3 months) presented consecutively with localized PF MB. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine showed no evidence of metastatic disease. All patients underwent gross total surgical excision of the primary tumor followed by total neuraxis irradiation, and then treatment with 6 cycles of multiagent chemotherapy. The median radiation doses to the spinal axis, brain, and tumor were 3600 cGy, 4000 cGy and 5450 cGy, respectively. Following radiation therapy, all patients were treated with cycles of vincristine 2 mg/m2 IV, methylprednisolone 300 mg/m2 IV every six hours for three doses, cisplatin 90 mg/m2 IV, and cyclophosphamide 1200 mg/m2 IV. G-CSF was subsequently administered until neutrophil recovery. Chemotherapy cycles were administered every 3-4 weeks. Nine of twelve (75%) patients received 6 of 6 scheduled cycles of chemotherapy with 68 of 72 planned cycles administered overall. At a mean duration from diagnosis of 3 years, all patients remain disease-free. Hematopoietic toxicity predominated with grade III/IV neutropenia and thrombocytopenia following 66% and 32% respectively, of administered cycles of chemotherapy. Infectious complications included 13 episodes of fever and neutropenia (4 with positive blood cultures), 2 episodes of cellulitis and 2 episodes of herpes zoster. GI and renal toxicities were minimal with one episode each of pancreatitis, ileus and hepatic enzyme elevation; 2 episodes of transient reduction in creatinine clearance (25-49%); and 6 episodes of electrolyte imbalance. One patient developed severe unilateral hearing loss. Transfusion support with packed red blood cells and platelets was required following 40% and 10%, of administered cycles of chemotherapy respectively. Dose modification due to toxicity occurred following 42% of cycles of therapy, and 50% of patients required nutritional support. This regimen was well tolerated with the major toxicity being hematopoietic. While longer follow up is necessary, this regimen shows promise for improved clinical outcome in children with PF MB.
New Concepts in Breast Cancer Emerge from Analyzing Clinical Data Using Numerical Algorithms

A small international group has recently challenged fundamental concepts in breast cancer. As a guiding principle in therapy, it has long been assumed that breast cancer growth is continuous. However, this group suggests tumor growth commonly includes extended periods of quasi-stable dormancy. Furthermore, surgery to remove the primary tumor often awakens distant dormant micrometastases. Accordingly, over half of all relapses in breast cancer are accelerated in this manner. This paper describes how a numerical algorithm was used to come to these conclusions. Based on these findings, a dormancy preservation therapy is proposed.
A service delivery platform for server management services

Computer server management is an important component of the global IT (information technology) services business. The providers of server management services face unrelenting efficiency challenges in order to remain competitive with other providers. Server system administrators (SAs) represent the majority of the workers in this industry, and their primary task is server management. Since system administration is a highly skilled position, the costs of employing such individuals are high, and thus, the challenge is to increase their efficiency so that a given SA can manage larger numbers of servers. In this paper, we describe a widely deployed Service Delivery Portal (SDP) in use throughout the Server Systems Operations business of IBM that provides a set of well-integrated technologies to help SAs perform their tasks more efficiently. The SDP is based on three simple design principles: 1) user interface aggregation, 2) data aggregation, and 3) knowledge centralization. This paper describes the development of the SDP from the vantage point of these three basic design principles along with lessons learned and the impact assessed from studying the behavior of SAs with and without the tool.
Screening potato starch for novel properties using differential scanning calorimetry.

Thermal and other physicochemical properties of starch from 42 potato genotypes were studied to find those with unique properties for food use, and to analyze relationships between thermal and other physicochemical properties. Onset and peak transition temperatures and gelatinization enthalpy intercorrelated. Transition temperatures intercorrelated with pasting temperature using a Brabender Visco-amylograph. Gelatinization entbalpy correlated with Brabender pasting temperature and peak paste viscosity, and onset temperature correlated with phosphorus content. Genotype E55–3.5 with highest onset and peak transition temperatures also had highest phosphorus and peak Brabender viscosity. DSC might be useful for rapidly screening samples of <1g starch for such. Potato starch DSC characteristics did not correlate with amylose, intrinsic viscosity, or water-binding. For 10 genotypes from successive years, correlations were observed for pasting temperature (r = 0.83), phosphorus content (r = 0.80), and stability ratio (r = 0.66). Direct comparison between samples from consecutive years showed good reproducibility for amylose, but not for phosphorus or pasting.
Routes to Government TB Treatment

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major source of morbidity and mortality in Uganda. This cross-sectional study explores Ugandan women's TB treatment-seeking processes to determine the routes to effective government TB treatment among a sample of urban, semirural, and rural women. This research focuses on women in particular as Ugandan women with tuberculosis must negotiate their treatment paths in a context where women tend to be politically and economically marginalized, with limited control of household resources and senior family members' health care decisions. The results examine the structural, social, and economic forces similarly guiding treatment seeking across the three research sites and then the specific differences among the settings. The findings suggest that the modest number of nongovernmental health care providers' diagnoses and referrals, particularly for urban and semirural participants, represents a critical barrier to biomedical TB treatment. Private providers' diagnosis delays also carry financial and physical costs, which undermine the resources available for subsequent TB treatment and participants' social and economic well-being. This study indicates that conceptualizations of the political economy of treatment seeking need to more fully acknowledge the dynamic nature of the microlevel political economic context of treatment seeking, including the domino social, economic, and health effects of structurally problematic health care systems.
Frequency shifts in resonant systems

Abstract We calculate the frequency shift due to resonant interaction between identical radiating atoms. We give numerical results for particular geometries. In some cases the shift exceeds 1 10 of the pressure-broadened width. We indicate that these results are valid in absorption as well.
Electronic imaging aids for night driving: low-light CCD, uncooled thermal IR, and color-fused visible/LWIR

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is developing new electronic night vision technologies for defense applications which can be adapted for civilian applications such as night driving aids. These technologies include (1) low-light CCD imagers capable of operating under starlight illumination conditions at video rates, (2) realtime processing of wide dynamic range imagery (visible and IR) to enhance contrast and adaptively compress dynamic range, and (3) realtime fusion of low-light visible and thermal IR imagery to provide color display of the night scene to the operator in order to enhance situational awareness. This paper compares imagery collected during night driving including: low-light CCD visible imagery, intensified-CCD visible imagery, uncooled long-wave IR imagery, cryogenically cooled mid-wave IR imagery, and visible/IR dual-band imagery fused for gray and color display.