cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mitigating ground clutter effects for mine detection with lightweight artificial dielectrics

Ground surface roughness is problematic when using a radar impulse to detect and locate land mines. Waves scatter from a random rough ground surface in unpredictable ways, contributing to clutter that is particularly hard to suppress. This clutter has proven experimentally and computationally to distort and obscure the desired scattered field from a buried target. To overcome this effect we have developed a lightweight, artificial dielectric that can be placed over a chosen area that will mimic flat ground and mitigate clutter effects. An artificial dielectric of close-packed array of small insulated metal-coated plastic spheres and lossless uniform plastic spheres can be formulated to match the dielectric properties soil. The ratio of these two spheres in the collection is adjusted to match a particular soil type and the moisture content. Placing them in a conformable bag and ensuring a flat upper interface with the air, ground reflections from an impulse radar can effectively be removed to reveal a target scattering signature. Furthermore, a matched filter can be used to distinguish between a landmine and a false alarm (such as a rock) The artificial dielectric was matched by running experiments in the frequency and time domains. A 1 GHz center frequency impulse ground penetrating radar was used to collect time signals and compare different cases: flat ground, rough ground and rough ground with artificial dielectric. Results indicate excellent rough surface reflection removal and target signal enhancement.
Surface analysis of the initial stages of Si film growth

Abstract Silicon films were deposited on gold-coated glass, copper-coated glass, bare polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and gold-coated PET substrates for times ranging from 10 s to 40 min at 130 °C for PET and 200 °C for the other substrates in order to study the chemistry of the initial stages of film growth. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) shows the formation of silicon oxide immediately upon commencement of the film growth. This oxide persists throughout the duration of the film growth. In PET films, the oxide is the dominant component of the Si 2p XPS peak, whereas it exists only as a minor, high-energy shoulder on the Si 2p peak for gold and copper-coated glass substrates and gold-coated PET substrates, indicating a less contaminated silicon film. X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicates that films grown on gold-coated glass for 40 min were polycrystalline with a (1 1 1) preferred orientation, and an average grain size of 95 ± 5 nm.
Electrodeposition of Crystalline Co3O4—A Catalyst for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction

Crystalline films of Co3O4 are deposited by electrochemically oxidizing a tartrate complex of Co2+ in an aqueous, alkaline solution at elevated temperatures. The crystallinity and stability of the films are a strong function of the deposition temperature. Films deposited at temperatures from 50 to 90 °C are amorphous, but films deposited from refluxing solution at 103 °C are crystalline. The crystalline films adhere strongly to the substrate, whereas the amorphous films peel off of the substrate when dried due to drying stresses. The crystalline films deposit with the normal spinel structure, with a lattice parameter of 0.8097 nm and crystallite size of 26 nm. The catalytic activity of Co3O4 for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) of the crystalline and amorphous films is compared by Tafel analysis in alkaline solution at pH 14. The crystalline Co3O4 film has a Tafel slope of 49 mV/decade and an exchange current density of 2.0 × 10–10 A cm–2, whereas an amorphous film deposited at 50 °C has a Tafel slope ...
An ESR study of the radical cations from octamethylnaphthalene and two hexamethylnaphthalenes

Abstract The ESR spectra of the radical cations from octamethylnaphthalene, 1,2,3,4,5,8-hexamethylnaphthalene and 1,2,3,4,6,7-hexamethylnaphthalene have been studied and interpreted with the aid of deuterium substitution of ring protons and computer simulation of the spectra. The methyl hyperfine couplings in the hexamethylnaphthalene cations were assigned on the basis of molecular orbital calculations employing the ω-technique.
Pre‐rotaxane polymers

The phenanthroline pre-rotaxane polymers [OPh-C 12 H 6 N 2 -PhO(CH 2 ) n ] m (n=8, 10, 11, 8/11) are synthesized by polycondensation. They are probably oligomeric, exhibit crystalline behaviour, are poorly soluble in organic solvents but are rather thermally stable
Total synthesis of pseudoguaianolides III. (±)-Aromatin

Abstract (±)-Aromatin ( 5 ), has been assembled from 2-methyl-1,3-cyclopentanedione in a linear synthesis characterized by high regio- and stereoselectivity at all stages. Several contributions to organosynthetic methodology are feature.
UNRESOLVED PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH EVALUATION OF TISSUE DOSE FOR THE THOROTRAST PATIENT GROUP

Abstract —With the intent of enabling a more precise specification of radiation dose to Thorotrast-injected patients, a study has been made of the physico-chemical properties of Thorotrast solutions. This study has focussed on the tendency of 232Th daughters to adsorb on glass of the vials in which Thorotrast is dispensed by the manufacturer. It has been found that 50 to 90% of 228Ra and 228Th daughters adsorb when ultracentrifugation experiments show them to exist as polymers in the solution. It has not been possible to relate the tendency to form aggregates to pH, age of the solution, or concentration of the daughters. It is shown by calculation that the maximum uncertainty of radiation dose (15-year interval of exposure) may be as much as 50 per cent due to inability to specify the daughter content of the injected Thorotrast.
Advances toward MR microscopy of single biological cells

Here we report further progress toward the goal of achieving proton magnetic resonance imaging microscopy with resolution approaching a few micrometers in all three dimensions. We obtain proton images of a phantom sample — a microcapillary containing water and 39 μm diameter polymer microspheres — with a resolution of a few micrometers (perhaps about 5 μm) in all three spatial dimensions.
Application of the kappa-omega Turbulence Model to Quasi-Three-Dimensional Turbomachinery Flows

Many computational fluid dynamics codes for turbomachinery use the Baldwin-Lomax (B-L) turbulence model. It is easy to implement in two dimensions and works well for predicting overall turbomachinery performance. However, it is awkward to implement in three dimensions, often has difficulty finding the length scale, has a crude transition model, and neglects freestream turbulence, surface roughness, and mass injection. The kappa-omega model developed by Wilcox is an appealing alternative for several reasons. First, it is the only two-equation model that can be integrated to the wall without requiring damping functions or the distance to the wall, and hence, should behave well numerically. Second, the effects of freestream turbulence, surface roughness, and mass injection are easily included in the model. Finally, transition can be simulated using the low Reynolds number version of the model. Menter applied the kappa-model to external flows and showed very good results for flows with adverse pressure gradients. Liu and Zheng described their implementation of the kappa-model in a cascade code that included an area change term to account for endwall convergence. They validated the model for a flat plate, and compared the B-L and kappa-models to measured surface pressures for a low-pressure turbine cascade. Since they did not use the low Reynolds number version of the model, their results showed problems resulting from early transition. In this Note the low Reynolds number kappa-model was incorporated in the author's quasi-three-dimensional turbomachinery analysis code. The code includes the effects of rotation, radius change, and stream-surface thickness variation, and also includes the B-L turbulence model. The kappa-omega model was implemented using many of Menter's recommendations and an implicit approximate-factorization scheme described by Baldwin and Barth. The model was tested for a transonic compressor with rotation and variable stream-surface radius and height, and for a transonic turbine vane with transition and heat transfer. Results were compared to the B-L model and to experimental data.
Advancing the treatment of hematologic malignancies through the development of targeted interventions.

Abstract Significant advances have been made in the development of targeted interventions for hematologic malignancies. Progress has been made in defining the molecular pathogenesis of human leukemias. Data indicate that nonrandom, somatically acquired translocations, inversions, and other abnormalities occur in many acute leukemias. In the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), targeted therapy with all- trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and anthracycline-based chemotherapy leads to dramatic improvements in disease-free survival. Imatinib mesylate, a signal transduction inhibitor that inhibits tyrosine kinase activity, the protein product of the ABL proto-oncogene, has remarkable activity in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome–positive (Ph + ) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTIs), a promising class of agents that target multiple pathways including Ras proteins, are potential anticancer therapy for a wide range of malignancies, including leukemias and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). There also is evidence that recombinant human erythropoietin therapy (r-HuEPO) can benefit patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma, and lymphomas. This supplement will discuss advances in our understanding of human leukemias, including the use of unconjugated monoclonal antibodies such as Campath-1H (Wellcome, Beckenham, UK, and Ilex Oncology, San Antonio, TX) and rituximab and immunoconjugates such as gemtuzumab ozogamicin and BL-22. Although these novel therapies are beginning to fulfill their promise, continued research efforts are needed to determine the optimal role of targeted therapy in acute and chronic leukemias. Semin Hematol 39(suppl 3):1-5. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Spirituality and religion in training, practice and personal development

In the midst of a revitalized interest in spirituality and religion in Western societies, there has been reported a resurgence of activity regarding spirituality and religion in the mental health professions, including marriage and family therapy (MFT). Little is known, however, about the beliefs, behaviours, and training experiences of MET graduate students. Therefore it is important to examine the training (education and supervision) needs in this area. For this initial study, a sample of US MET graduate students were surveyed regarding their spiritual and religious attitudes and practices in their personal and professional lives. In most areas, graduate students were found to be similar to the previously published reports of practising professionals. In other areas, they report even more investment in spirituality and religion. The results of the survey suggest a need to include systematic attention to these areas in graduate training curricula and in the professional supervision process.
Total syntheses of furaquinocin A, B, and E

A modular approach to the total synthesis of furaquinocins culminated in the total syntheses of furaquinocin A, B, and E. A Pd-catalyzed dynamic kinetic asymmetric transformation (DYKAT) on carbonates derived from Baylis-Hillman adducts, followed by a reductive Heck cyclization allows the enantio- and diastereoselective construction of dihydrobenzofuran 32. Introduction of a double unsatured side chain via Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons reaction and assembly of the naphthoquinone with squaric acid based methodology leads to furaquinocin E. The use of differentially substituted squaric acid derivatives allows the synthesis of three analogues of furaquinocin E. The additional stereocenters in furaquinocin A and B can be introduced with a diastereoselective Sakurai allylation. The stereoselective elongation of the side chain is possible using cross metathesis or ring closing metathesis. The obtained late-stage intermediates were successfully transformed to furaquinocin A and B.
Perceived and actual information processing deficits in nonclinical hoarding

Abstract Cognitive-behavioral models of hoarding disorder have identified information processing deficits of categorization and organization, decision-making and indecisiveness, memory, and attention as contributors to hoarding symptoms. The purpose of the current study was to determine whether deficits of memory, attention, and indecisiveness found in hoarders are also present in nonclinical hoarders. Participants included 36 nonclinical hoarders (“packrats”) and 37 controls low in hoarding symptoms. Participants completed neuropsychological tests of memory, sustained attention, and intelligence as well as a battery of questionnaires assessing various symptoms related to the study hypotheses, including hoarding disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Nonclinical hoarders reported higher levels of indecisiveness, more concern about memory and cognitive processes, more ADHD symptoms, and higher levels of impulsiveness on self-report questionnaires; however, they did not display impairments in memory, sustained attention, or impulsiveness on neuropsychological tests. The current study highlights potential risk factors of perceived cognitive deficits in the development of hoarding disorder.
Domain-specific effector interactions within the central cavity of human adult hemoglobin in solution and in porous sol-gel matrices: evidence for long-range communication pathways.

The water-filled central cavity of human adult hemoglobin (Hb A) is the binding or interaction site for many different allosteric effectors. Oxygen binding titrations reveal that pyrenetetrasulfonate (PyTS), a fluorescent analogue of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate, behaves like an allosteric effector. The ligation state, pH, and concentrations of other effectors (IHP, L35, and chloride) alter PyTS fluorescence for both solution-phase and sol−gel-encapsulated Hb samples. These conditions also alter the resonance Raman spectra and rates of geminate recombination of CO-ligated Hb. Together, these results demonstrate that there are conformational and functional consequences resulting from interactions between specific domains of the central cavity and individual effectors as well as from long-range synergistic effects that are mediated through the central cavity.
Changes in body mass, serum leptin, and mRNA levels of leptin receptor isoforms during the premigratory period in Myotis lucifugus

Migration and hibernation in mammals may be preceded by a period of leptin resistance, which may in part account for the increasing adiposity and body mass that occurs during these periods. We hypothesized that hypothalamic expression of leptin receptor mRNA would decrease during the premigration (PM) period in the little brown myotis, Myotis lucifugus. Body mass of M. lucifugus increased during the PM period, but serum leptin levels did not change during that time. Hypothalamic mRNA levels for both the short (ObRa) and fully active long (ObRb) forms of the leptin receptor increased during PM, but the relative increase in ObRa was larger and occurred sooner than ObRb. mRNA levels of an inhibitor of leptin signaling (protein inhibitor of activated STAT3: PIAS3) increased in hypothalami during the PM period in bats. Adiponectin is an adipokine that has been linked to obesity in rodents; normally, serum levels of adiponectin decrease in obesity. In M. lucifugus, adiponectin mRNA levels decreased in adipose tissue during the period of mass gain, but circulating adiponectin levels did not change. We conclude that the relative changes in leptin receptor isoform expression during the PM fattening period may favor binding of leptin to the less active short isoform. Coupled with increased expression of PIAS3 and the dissociation of serum leptin levels from body mass and adiposity, these changes could account in part for the adaptive fattening during the PM period. In addition, the adipokine profiles of M. lucifugus during the PM period and that of obesity in non-hibernating mammals are strikingly dissimilar.
Sugars synthesized in a snap.

The chemical synthesis of natural oligosaccharides by sequentially stitching monosaccharides together remains a major challenge because of the complexity of carbohydrate structures. A recent paper reports a versatile technology for creating selectively protected synthetic intermediates, thus providing easy access to complex oligosaccharides.
Why Attachment Security Matters: How Customers' Attachment Styles Influence Their Relationships With Service Firms and Service Employees

Relational orientations vary across customers, so marketing activities should be customized to individual customers or market segments. However, little is known about the underlying processes that influence how customers bond with a service firm and its employees. This article explains customer-firm and customer-employee relationships using attachment theory. It provides theoretical and empirical evidence that customers with low levels of attachment anxiety and low levels of attachment avoidance perceive a service firm and service employee more positively—in terms of satisfaction, trust, and affective commitment—than customers with high levels. However, since a service firm and service employee are separate attachment targets, this study also tests whether customers have a similar propensity to bond with both. Insecurely attached customers who find interpersonal bonds with employees deficient, compensate for this deficiency by being more likely to bond with the service firm. Companies that measure custome...
A Simplified Flow Cytometric Immunophenotyping Procedure for the Diagnosis of Effusions Caused by Epithelial Malignancies

Epithelial malignancies frequently metastasize to the serous cavities and result in symptomatic effusions. Cytology has high specificity but moderate sensitivity for the diagnosis of a malignant effusion. We developed and validated a simple, rapid, 3-color flow cytometric panel using the adhesion molecule Ber-EP4 to detect epithelial cells in effusions. One hundred ninety-five consecutive benign and malignant effusions received for routine cytologic examination were analyzed. Eighty-three fluid specimens were benign and 76 were malignant as judged by follow-up data. Ber-EP4-positive cells were detected with flow cytometry in 89.3% of malignant effusions. The sensitivity and specificity of flow cytometry was 88.15% and 97.64% compared with 73.68% and 100% on cytologic examination alone for the presence of a malignant effusion. Flow cytometry is a useful adjunct to cytology for the diagnosis of a malignant effusion and is particularly useful if the cytologic diagnosis is atypical/suspicious or if the cytologic preparations are hypocellular or hemorrhagic.
Clinical pharmacology of taxanes as radiosensitizers and the thiol-based radioprotectant amifostine

Although many anticancer agents have been evaluated as radiosensitizing agents in cancer patients, none has demonstrated unequivocal clinical efficacy. Paclitaxel (Taxol; Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, NJ) has been shown to enhance tumor cell response to ionizing radiation in cell culture studies. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of paclitaxel in cancer patients receiving other highly metabolized drugs have not been well described and will be a key consideration in the development of the drug as a radiosensitizing agent. In addition, drug interaction studies demonstrate that administration sequence of paclitaxel with other chemotherapeutic agents, including cisplatin, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide, likely will affect its radiosensitizing efficacy. Other drugs that may affect paclitaxel radiosensitizing efficacy include corticosteroids and anticonvulsants; these interactions are particularly important in patients with central nervous system tumors, as is the question of whether paclitaxel can penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Overall, paclitaxel pharmacokinetics appear to favor radiosensitization, and results from an ongoing series of randomized trials should help define the drug's role in this setting. In contrast, amifostine, a sulfhydryl-containing agent, is currently being evaluated as a radioprotectant for normal tissues in patients who are receiving radiation therapy. Recent clinical trials have focused on amifostine's ability to reduce platinum-induced nephrotoxicity, although the drug was originally developed as a radioprotectant. Phase I clinical trials suggest that amifostine may be administered in much lower doses for radioprotectaon than those required for protection from platinuminduced nephrotoxicity. Amifostine pharmacokinetics support this finding; elimination of the drug may be dose dependent with clearance saturated at high doses, leading to increased risk of toxicity with no added radioprotectant benefit. Large randomized trials evaluating both paclitaxel as a radiosensitizer and amifostine as a radioprotectant are needed to make any firm conclusions regarding efficacy of either drug in modulating cancer therapy.
Exploring the Role of Sexed Semen in Dairy Production Systems

Abstract The availability of sexed semen in dairy cattle has been eagerly anticipated for many years, and recent developments in fluorescence activated cell sorting have brought this technology to the brink of commercial application. Two limitations still exist, namely sorting speed (hence, availability and price) and in vivo conception rates. Presently, about 150 to 200 straws of X-bearing sperm can be sorted per machine per day, and this comprises less that 0.5% of the daily domestic dairy semen requirement. Furthermore, conception rates in field trials involving virgin heifers have typically ranged from 35 to 40% with sexed semen, as compared with 55 to 60% for unsexed semen, and this limits the willingness of producers to pay a premium price for the product. The focus of this paper is to discuss 3 potential breeding schemes that can lead to widespread usage of sexed semen today, in spite of its aforementioned limitations. The first strategy, earlier (than normal) breeding of virgin heifers with sexed semen, followed by the use of unsexed semen for repeat services, would provide 62 to 66% female offspring at first calving with no detrimental effects on average age at calving or dystocia. Semen cost per heifer calf would increase by $47 to 56, $123 to 137, or $199 to 217, depending on conception rate, for sexed semen priced at $50, $100, or $150 per unit, respectively. The second strategy, in vitro embryo production using known donors with dairy heifers as recipients, could provide extra heifer calves at an added cost of $81 to 118 or $212 to 286 for female embryos costing $50 or $100, respectively. The third strategy, in vitro embryo production with anonymous donors and beef recipients, could increase net calf value per recipient by $52 to 97 (single transfers) or $171 to 240 (double transfers) for embryos costing $25 each and by $11 to 59 (single transfers) or $95 to 161 (double transfers) for embryos that cost $50. Thus, strategies exist for near-term application of sexed semen within the routine management of commercial dairy farms. Early adopters of this technology will capture economic benefits associated with extra replacement heifers, as well as enhanced biosecurity via the ability to expand rapidly from within a closed herd.
Intrapulmonary Lymph Nodes: Clinical, Radiologic, and Pathologic Features

The clinical, radiographic, and pathologic material from ten patients with intrapulmonary lymph nodes was analyzed, along with information from all previously reported cases. In our series the median age was 56 years, and 80 percent (eight) of the patients were men. All patients are or were cigarette smokers. Sixty percent (six) had a history of exposure to either asbestos, nonfibrous silicates, or both. There were no characteristic symptoms attributable to the intrapulmonary lymph nodes. Forty percent (four) had an unexplained pulmonary nodule or nodules on the chest roentgenogram, which prompted further diagnostic studies, including thoracotomy, to rule out a malignant neoplasm. Radiographically, in our cases and in the literature, almost all cases of intrapulmonary lymph nodes are subpleural, inferior to the level of the carina, and less than 2.0 cm in diameter. Tliirty-five percent are multiple. Pathologically, in our cases, all intrapulmonary lymph nodes were markedly anthracotic, and 60 percent were additionally silicotic. Although their histogenesis is uncertain, intrapulmonary lymph nodes are probably hyperplastic lymphoid nodules related to inhalation of irritant dusts and attendant distortion of local lymphatic vessels. Precise clinical and radiographic analysis correlated carefully with cytologic and histologic material obtained by percutaneous needle biopsy should obviate exploratory thoracotomy in most instances.
Combining Near-UV Photodissociation with Electron Transfer. Reduction of the Diazirine Ring in a Photomethionine-Labeled Peptide Ion.

Electron transfer dissociation of peptide ions with the diazirine-containing residue photomethionine (M*) results in side-chain dissociations by loss of C3H7N2 radicals in addition to standard backbone cleavages. The side-chain dissociations are particularly prominent upon activation of long-lived, charge-reduced, cation rad- icals (GM*GGR + 2H) +● . Investigation of these cation radicals by near-UV photodis- sociation and collisional activation revealed different fragmentation products and mechanisms resulting from these ion activation modes. The dissociations observed for photomethioninewere dramaticallydifferentfrom those previouslyreported for the lower homologue photoleucine; here, a difference by a single methylene group in the side chain had a large effect on the chemistries of the cation radicals upon ETD and further activation. ETD intermediates and products were probed by tandem 355-nm UV photodissociation- collision induced dissociation and found to contain chromophores that resulted from electron attachment to the diazirinering.Thenatureofthenewlyformedchromophoresandionenergeticsandkineticswereinvestigatedby electron structure calculations combining ab initio and density functional theory methods and Rice-Ramsperger- Kassel-Marcus (RRKM) theory. The dramatic difference between the dissociations of L* and M* containing peptide cation radicals is explained by electronic effects that play a role in stabilizing critical reaction intermedi- ates and steer the dissociations into kinetically favored reaction channels. In addition, a new alternating UVPD- ETD-UVPD MS 4 experiment is introduced and utilized for ion structure elucidation.
Validity and structure of a self-report measure of youth psychopathy.

An interest in early identification of youth who may be at risk of psychopathy has generated measures for age-appropriate screening and assessment. This study examines the structural, concurrent, and divergent validity of the Psychopathy Content Scale, a 20-item self-report instrument derived from the Millon Adolescent Clinical Inventory (MACI). Data for 481 youths who had taken the MACI, the Child Behavior Checklist Youth Self-Report (YSR), and the Massachusetts Youth Screening Instrument, Second Version (MAYSI-2), were analyzed. Results showed that the PCS is best described by a two-factor model and that analyses of the two factors offer limited support for convergent and divergent validity. High scores on both factors were associated with high YSR and MAYSI-2 scales, suggesting that the measure identified youth who were distressed on several measures of emotional, psychological, and behavioral disorder. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On infinite graphs with a specified number of colorings

Abstract In this paper we construct a planar graph of degree four which admits exactly N u 3-colorings, we prove that such a graph must have degree at least four, and we consider various generalizations. We first allow our graph to have either one or two vertices of infinite degree and/or to admit only finitely many colorings and we note how this effects the degrees of the remaining vertices. We next consider n -colorings for n >3, and we construct graphs which we conjecture (but cannot prove) are of minimal degree. Finally, we consider nondenumerable graphs, and for every 3 n ω and every infinite cardinal k we construct a graph of cardinality k which admits exactly kn -colorings. We also show that the number of n -colorings of a denumerable graph can never be strictly between N u and 2 N u and that an appropriate generalization holds for at least certain nondenumerable graphs.
Increased bactericidal activity by non-specific stimulation of lymphoid cells--experiments in vivo with concanavalin A.

Abstract Mice injected with 50–150 μg of Concanavalin A, intravenously, showed increased resistance to infection by Listeria monocytogenes. The number of organisms that lodged initially in the spleen was the same in both untreated and treated mice; yet the subsequent bacterial growth in the treated group of mice was reduced by 10 to 100-fold. The increased resistance to Listeria infection was not seen in thymectomized mice. The treated mice did not show an enhanced specific immunity to Listeria as compared to the untreated mice. In contrast, Concanavalin A enhanced the immune response to hemocyanin but only when administered a day before with it. We conclude that the resistance to listeriosis was brought about by nonspecific stimulation of T lymphocytes by Concanavalin A.
Sex differentials in cardiovascular mortality: An ecological analysis

Abstract The objective of this study is to explain spatial variations in cardiovascular mortality by sex. Recognizing the interdependence of the various dimensions of the ‘ecological complex’, it is maintained that spatial variations in cardiovascular mortality by sex and the sex differentials in cardiovascular mortality are the consequences of environmental, sustenance organization, health technology, and demographic factors. The test of the model is based on U.S. county level cardiovascular mortality data for ages 25–65 for the period 1970–1980. The most distinctive feature of the results is that environment has the greatest impact on sex differentials in cardiovascular mortality followed by sustenance organization. In this regard, socioeconomic status is shown to be the single most important variable in explaining cardiovascular mortality rates for both sexes in most community types. The effect of health technology is not significant, and increased availability of health manpower and facilities are often found in conjunction with higher rates of cardiovascular mortality for both sexes. The results of this study confirm the importance of programs directed toward altering the basic environment and sustenance organization structures of communities rather than other ecological components such as health technology.
Experimental Evaluation of Sinusoidal Leading Edges

P REVIOUS studies on increasing airfoil lift and improving stall characteristics have addressed various passive and active approaches to modifying the leading and trailing edge shapes. The passive approaches have covered such methods as rippling the trailing edge, applying serrated-edge Gurney flaps, or modifying the leading-edge (LE) profile [1,2]. Other efforts have effectively eliminated the dynamic stall of an NACA 0012 airfoil by perturbing the LE contour as little as 0.5–0.9%of the chord [3]. Levshin et al. [4] demonstrated that sinusoidal LE planforms on an NACA 63-021 airfoil section decreased maximum lift, but extended the stall angle by almost 9 deg. The larger amplitude sinusoids created “softer” stall characteristics by maintaining attached flow at the peaks despite separated flow in the troughs. These tests were performed to simulate the effects of LE tubercles on humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) flippers. Prior work by the authors also reported wind tunnel measurements for idealized scale models of humpback whale flippers [5]. One model had a smooth leading edge and a secondmodel had sinusoidal bumps (tubercles) along the leading edge for the outer 2 3 of the span. It was found that the addition of tubercles to a 3-D idealized flipper increased the maximum lift coefficient while reducing the drag coefficient over a portion of the operational envelope. It is thought that the tubercles on the flipper leading-edge enhance the whale’s ability to maneuver to catch prey [6]. Though the work to date regarding sinusoidal or serrated leading-edge planforms is largely motivated by marine mammal locomotion, the effects of extending the stall point for lifting surfaces at similar Reynolds numbers (Re) may have application to small-UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) design and the inevitable laminar stall problems [7]. However other relevant applications might benefit from the effects of simulated tubercles such as stall alleviation/separation control on sailboat centerboards or wind turbines, where an expanded operating envelope could improve the overall effectiveness of the blade [8,9]. In the present work, a better understanding is sought of the mechanism of the improvements measured in previous experiments, with a greater applicability in mind. The authors seek to determine whether the performance improvements resulted from enhancements to the sectional characteristics of wings with tubercles (i.e., essentially 2-D effects), or from Reynolds number effects on a tapered planform, or from other 3-D effects such as spanwise stall progression.
Measuring Correlated Atomic Motion Using X-ray Diffraction

The atomic motions in crystals are correlated. In this paper we demonstrate that information about the correlated motion of atoms, and consequently about the bonding within the crystal, can be obtained by analyzing the peak width of the atomic pair distribution function (PDF). We have measured the PDFs of Ni and InAs using synchrotron X-ray diffraction. The analysis of the Ni data allowed us to determine the Debye temperature which is in good agreement with values found in the literature. In contrast to the isotropic metallic bonding in Ni resulting in a relatively weak correlation between the motion of neighboring atoms, we found a very strong correlation in InAs as one might expect from the covalent bond between In and As. The results are compared with theoretical predictions by Chung and Thorpe (Phys. ReV .B 1977, 55, 1545).
On optimal state estimation with multiple packet dropouts

Due to unreliable communication between local sensors and the processing center, packet dropouts may happen during transmission. Two existing methods for linear minimum mean-squared error (LMMSE) estimation with multiple packet dropouts were obtained completely or partially based on a stochastic parameter system constructed by augmenting the original state and measurement. They have a high computational load, unclear measurement residual characterization and tough requirements on initialization. To overcome these, an alternative form of LMMSE estimation with multiple packet dropouts is derived. Under a Gaussian assumption, the minimum mean-squared error (MMSE) estimation with multiple packet dropouts is also derived. Numerical examples are provided to compare performance of the proposed estimators.
Models for a coal blending and distribution problem

Abstract This research is concerned with the study of typical coal flow operations in the coal industry, with a concentration on the blending and distribution problems. The problem here is to determine decisions and schedules for coal shipment to silos, cleaning and blending operations at the silos, and the subsequent shipment of coal to customers over a multi-period time horizon, so as to satisfy the demand at a minimum total operational cost. Three linear programming models of varying complexity and capability are developed to meet this objective. Based on a comparison of their structural properties and their accuracy versus computational requirements, recommendations are made for implementation. The final product envisioned is a computer-based decision tool which will serve as a mechanism for implementing cost-effective decisions in light of complex variations in production, ore quality and demand requirements over time. The models can be used to plan future growth and capital investment decisions, as well as to study the effect of various policies, by testing the sensitivity, feasibility and the cost of system operations under different perturbations of system configuration, data and demand specifications. Real operational data from the Westmoreland Coal Company is used for testing purposes.
Lung Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy: Regional Nodal Failure Is Not Predicted by Tumor Size

Introduction To examine regional nodal failure patterns with respect to lesion size in medically inoperable early-stage non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with definitive lung stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Methods Between 2004 and 2012, 342 medically inoperable early-stage NSCLC patients treated with definitive SBRT were identified in our institutional review board–approved prospective registry. All patients were treated on a Novalis/BrainLAB system using ExacTrac for image guidance. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed with the log-rank test used to detect differences between lesion size and nodal failure patterns. Cox-proportional hazard regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of nodal failure. Results Median follow-up was 17.6 months (range, 0–84 months). Median tumor size, positron emission tomography maximum standardized uptake value, and dose/fractionation were 2.2 cm (range, 0.8–7.2 cm), 6.7 (range, 1–59), and 50 Gray (Gy)/five fractions, respectively. Of the 342 lesions evaluated, 14.6% (50 of 342) experienced nodal failure. Nodal failure rates were 17.45% (26 of 149), 10.3% (11 of 107), 14.1% (10 of 71), and 20% (3 of 15) for lesions less than or equal to 2 cm, 2.1 to 3 cm, 3.1 to 5 cm, and greater than 5 cm, respectively. Rates of nodal failure were not significantly different between the four different size groups ( p = 0.15). On univariate analysis, 2.1 to 3 cm lesions versus less than or equal to 2 cm exhibited less nodal failure after SBRT (hazard ratio=0.406; 95% confidence interval=0.189–0.87; p = 0.0205). No other patient, tumor, or treatment factor significantly affected nodal failure. Conclusion For early-stage NSCLC treated with SBRT, tumor size does not influence the rates of regional nodal failure. This finding warrants further investigation on the possible mechanisms of SBRT by which loco-regional control is improved.
Development of a multilayered antimicrobial edible coating for shelf-life extension of fresh-cut cantaloupe (Cucumis melo L.) stored at 4 °C

Abstract The objective of this study was to develop a multilayered edible coating with antimicrobial agent to extend the shelf life of fresh-cut cantaloupe stored at 4 °C. Three different sets of experiments were designed to test the effect of different concentrations of chitosan (0.5, 1, 2 g/100 g), pectin (0.5, 1, 2 g/100 g), and encapsulated trans-cinnamaldehyde (1, 2, 3 g/100 g), on the quality of fresh-cut cantaloupe. The first set (chitosan concentrations) provided the optimum concentration of chitosan based on preferences by the panelists. The second set (pectin concentrations) produced an acceptable coating that maintained shelf life. The third set (antimicrobial concentrations) helped establish the optimum concentration of trans-cinnamaldehyde in the coating. Changes in fruits texture, color, moisture, acidity, and pH were monitored. Sensory testing was carried out to support the objective quality data and microbiological analysis helped verify the antimicrobial effectiveness of trans-cinnamaldehyde. Uncoated fresh-cut cantaloupes stored at 4 °C served as controls. To test for the antimicrobial activity of chitosan alone, a second set of controls consisted of samples coated only with chitosan. Application of a multilayered edible coating composed of 2 g/100 g trans-cinnamaldehyde, 2 g/100 g chitosan and 1 g/100 g pectin helps extend the shelf life of fresh-cut cantaloupe (up to 9 days).
Simple and Efficient One-Step Synthesis of a Highly Enantioselective Catalyst 3,3′-Di(pyrrolidinylmethyl)-H8BINOL

AbstractA concise one-step synthetic method was developed to prepare (S)-3,3′-di(pyrrolidinylmethyl)-H8BINOL via Mannich-type reaction. Under the optimal reaction conditions, the yield reached 83% (by recrystallization) and 93% (by column chromatography). This new procedure has reduced the molar ratio of pyrrolidine/paraformaldehyde/(S)-H8BINOL from 58:58:1 to 3:3:1, which simplified the previously reported two-step reaction to a one-step reaction with no need for laborious operations such as cooling and solvent degassing, and avoided discharging a large amount of dioxane-containing waste water.
Meta-Analysis, Replication, Social Skills, and Learning Disabilities:

This article examines Ochoa and Olivarez's (1995) replication study of Swanson and Malone's (1992) meta-analysis of sociometric research for children with learning disabilities. The two research syntheses agree in direction and outcomes, but vary substantially in identifying the moderator variables that underlie effect sizes. Some of the differences between the two syntheses were related to the effects of gender, ethnicity, and type of measurement on effect size. Differences between the two syntheses were attributed to (a) inadequate reporting of coding reliability, (b) failure to include similar articles for analysis, and (c) poor operationalization of the term learning disabilities as the basis for article selection. Because differences existed in coding schemes and effect sizes between the two syntheses, guidelines for enhancing replication for future syntheses are suggested. These guidelines reflect several criteria on which to judge a meta-analysis of the literature.
Effects of parameter estimation on maximum-likelihood bootstrap analysis

Bipartition support in maximum-likelihood (ML) analysis is most commonly assessed using the nonparametric bootstrap. Although bootstrap replicates should theoretically be analyzed in the same manner as the original data, model selection is almost never conducted for bootstrap replicates, substitution-model parameters are often fixed to their maximum-likelihood estimates (MLEs) for the empirical data, and bootstrap replicates may be subjected to less rigorous heuristic search strategies than the original data set. Even though this approach may increase computational tractability, it may also lead to the recovery of suboptimal tree topologies and affect bootstrap values. However, since well-supported bipartitions are often recovered regardless of method, use of a less intensive bootstrap procedure may not significantly affect the results. In this study, we investigate the impact of parameter estimation (i.e., assessment of substitution-model parameters and tree topology) on ML bootstrap analysis. We find that while forgoing model selection and/or setting substitution-model parameters to their empirical MLEs may lead to significantly different bootstrap values, it probably would not change their biological interpretation. Similarly, even though the use of reduced search methods often results in significant differences among bootstrap values, only omitting branch swapping is likely to change any biological inferences drawn from the data.
An SDS modeling approach for simulation-based control

We initiate a study of mathematical models for specifying (discrete) simulation-based control systems. It is desirable to specify simulation-based control systems using a model that is intuitive, succinct, expressive, and whose state space properties are relatively easy computationally. We compare automata-based models for specifying control systems and find that all systems that are currently used (such as finite state machines, communicating hierarchical finite state machines (FSM), communicating finite state machines, and Turing machines) lack at least one of the abovementioned features. We propose using sequential dynamical systems (SDS) - a formalism for representing discrete simulations - to specify simulation-based control systems. We show how to adapt the standard SDS model to specify cell-level controllers for a generic cell. For reasonable flexible manufacturing cells, the SDS-based specification has size polynomial in the size of the cell, while in the worst case the FSM-based specification has size exponential in the size of the cell.
The effect of tourniquet pressure on muscle function

The adverse effects of excessive tourniquet pressure on underlying muscle were studied using a cat model. A direct effect of the magnitude of tourniquet pressure on the degree of muscle disability was observed. The effect of direct pressure on the muscle may contribute to the postoperative weakness seen in the quadriceps muscle. Our data, in conjunction with the results of other studies that correlate certain tourniquet times and pressures with potential adverse effects, suggest that the selection of an appropriate tourniquet pressure and duration will minimize the development of clinically significant complications.
Optimizing perioperative management of geriatric patients with head and neck cancer

Given emerging demographic trends, many more elderly patients are being diagnosed with head and neck cancers. The surgical care paradigm for this cohort of patients must take into account specific challenges inherent to geriatric perioperative management. This article attempts to summarize the existing body of literature relevant to the geriatric head and neck cancer population, and to extrapolate relevant data from geriatric perioperative medicine in order to better understand and guide management decisions. The involvement of geriatricians and of patients' primary care providers may be invaluable in assisting in complex perioperative decision-making and in participating in longitudinal management. Preoperative risk stratification and assessment of medical, social, and functional variables are critical for appropriate decision-making in this challenging patient population. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 743–749, 2014
The golden age of biochemical research in photosynthesis.

The perspectives and enthusiasms recorded in this review describe the events I witnessed and, in small ways, contributed to. Two great rewards emerged from my experiences – the pleasure of doing experiments and the great wealth of friendships with students and colleagues. As a graduate student, phenomena appeared at the bench before me which clarified the coupling of electron transport to ATP synthesis. My first PhD graduate student measured concentrations of pyridine nucleotides in chloroplasts and his results have been often confirmed and well used. All of the many graduate students who followed contributed to our understanding of photosynthesis. I have taken much pleasure from documenting the details of photosynthetic phosphorylation and electron transport in cyanobacteria. Studies of the `c' type cytochromes in these organisms continue to fascinate me. My experiences in government in its efforts to promote research are unusual, perhaps unique. A rare event outside the laboratory – a natural bloom of cyanobacteria – stimulated new thoughts and special opportunities for laboratory science. Photosynthesis seems magisterial in its shaping of our planet and its biology and in the details of its cleverness that were revealed in the time of my witness.