cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mixed convexity and optimization results for an (S − 1, S) inventory model under a time limit on backorders

Das (Oper Res 25(5):835–850, 1977) considered the optimization of a cost function associated with an (S − 1, S) inventory model assuming the parameters to be the initial number of items in the stock and the service rate. A similar optimization problem associated with an M/Ek/1 queueing system with parameters being the number of servers and the service rate was considered by Kumin (Manag Sci 20:126–129, 1973). Both carried out case-dependent computations and indicated the difficulty of finding general convexity and optimization results for functions with both integer and real variables. In this paper, generalized mixed convexity and computational optimization results for the cost function associated with the (S − 1, S) inventory system suggested by Das are provided. The generalized convexity results determine the convexity region of the cost function, and therefore the region of possible minimal values of the cost function in the domain. In addition, algorithms to determine the generalized convexity and computational optimization results for the cost function are given.
Insect visitation and pollen deposition in an invaded prairie plant community

Abstract Invasive plants with large flowering displays have been shown to compete with native plants for pollinator services, often to the detriment of native plant fitness. In this study, we compare the pollinator communities and pollen deposited on stigmas of native plant species within and away from stands of the invasive alien plant, leafy spurge ( Euphorbia esula ) at a large natural area in North Dakota, USA. Specifically, we ask if infestation influences (1) visitation rates and taxonomic composition of visitors to native flowers, and (2) the amount of conspecific pollen, number of pollen species, and proportion of heterospecific pollen on stigmas of native plants. We observed visits to selected native species during May and June 2000 and 2001. Stigmas were collected from a subsample of the flowers within these plots, squashed, and the pollen identified and counted under a light microscope. Visitation varied between years and among species of native plants: infestation had mixed effects in 2000 but visitation, especially by halictids was always lower within infestations in 2001. Despite differences in visitation between years, we found significantly less conspecific pollen on stigmas from infested plots in six of eight cases; we never found significantly more conspecific pollen on stigmas from within infestations. Our results emphasize the temporal variability in plant–pollinator relations and the added complexity imposed by an invasive species that will always make prediction of effects difficult. Nonetheless, the consistently lower conspecific pollen counts on native stigmas within infestations, regardless of visitation, suggest the likelihood of negative effects.
Changes in susceptibility to acetaminophen-induced liver injury by the organic anion indocyanine green.

Abstract The non-metabolizable organic anion indocyanine green (ICG) has been shown previously to reduce markedly the biliary secretion of acetaminophen, particularly the glutathione conjugate of APAP (APAP-GSH), suggesting that this APAP metabolite may compete with other xenobiotics for excretion into the bile via a canalicular organic anion transport process. This study was conducted to determine whether changes in the biliary disposition of APAP induced by ICG could lead to alterations in susceptibility to APAP hepatotoxicity. To investigate this, groups of overnight-fasted male CD-1 mice received 30 μmol ICG/kg, intravenously, immediately prior to APAP dosing (500 mg/kg, ip). Controls were given propylene glycol vehicle. Mice were killed at 4 h after APAP challenge for immunochemical analysis of cytosolic protein arylation and determination of non-protein sulfhydryl (NPSH) depletion, or at 12 and 24 h for biochemical and histological assessment of liver injury. Elevated plasma sorbitol dehydrogenase activity and centrilobular hepatocellular necrosis was present in control mice receiving APAP at 12 and 24 h. Treatment with ICG did not alter susceptibility to APAP toxicity when measured at 12 h after challenge. However, the severity of histologic lesions in the ICG-APAP group was significantly lower at 24 h after challenge. Furthermore, treatment with ICG did not alter APAP-induced glutathione depletion or cytosolic protein arylation. These data suggest that the organic anion ICG has a protective effect on APAP toxicity that promotes a faster recovery from liver injury.
The inhibition of bacteriophage protein synthesis by 5-fluorouracil.

Abstract 1. 1. Both uracil and thymine are required to reverse the effect of 5-fluorouracil on phage synthesis. 2. 2. If thymine alone is added to a fluorouracil-inhibited culture, phage precursor deoxyribonucleic acid accumulates. If only uracil is added, phage precursor protein is synthesized. 3. 3. Evidence from both antibody-precipitation and column chromatography experiments suggests that fluorouracil actually prevents the accumulation of phage precursor protein.
Do ankle braces provide similar effects on ankle biomechanical variables in subjects with and without chronic ankle instability during landing

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine effects of a sport version of a semi-rigid ankle brace (Element) and a soft ankle brace (ASO) on ankle biomechanics and ground reaction forces (GRFs) during a drop landing activity in subjects with chronic ankle instability (CAI) compared to healthy subjects with no history of CAI. Methods: Ten healthy subjects and 10 subjects who had multiple ankle sprains participated in the study as the control and unstable subjects, respectively. The CAI subjects were age, body mass index and gender matched with the control subjects. The arch index and ankle functions of the subjects were measured in a subject screening session. During the biomechanical test session, participants performed five trials of drop landing from 0.6 m, wearing no brace (NB), Element brace and ASO brace. Simultaneous recording of three-dimensional kinematic (240 Hz) and GRF (1200 Hz) data were performed. Results: The CAI subjects had lower ankle functional survey scores. The arch index and deformity results showed greater arch deformity of Element against a static load than in NB and ASO due to greater initial arch position held by the brace. CAI participants had greater eversion velocity than healthy controls. The ASO brace reduced the first peak vertical GRF whereas Element increased 2nd peak vertical GRF. Element brace reduced eversion range of motion (ROM) and peak eversion velocity compared to NB and ASO. In addition, Element reduced dorsiflexion ROM and increased peak plantarflexion moment compared to NB and ASO. Conclusion: Results of static arch measurements and dynamic ankle motion suggest that the restrictions offered by both braces are in part due to more dorsiflexed ankle positions at contact, and higher initial arch position and stiffer ankle for Element. Copyright 2012, Shanghai University of Sport. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Removal and Destruction of Organic Contaminants in Water Using Adsorption, Steam Regeneration, and Photocatalytic Oxidation: A Pilot-Scale Study.

ABSTRACT The overall objective of this pilot-scale study is to investigate the technical feasibility of the removal and destruction of organic contaminants in water using adsorption and photocatalytic oxidation. The process consists of two consecutive operational steps: (1) removal of organic contaminants using fixed-bed adsorption; and (2) regeneration of spent adsorbent using photocatalysis or steam, followed by decontamination of steam condensate using photocatalysis. The pilot-scale study was conducted to evaluate these options at a water treatment plant in Wausau (Wisconsin) for treatment of groundwater contaminated with tetrachloroethene (PCE), trichloroethene (TCE), cis-dichloroethene (cis-DCE), toluene, ethylbenzene (EB), and xylenes. The adsorbents used were F-400 GAC and Ambersorb 563. In the first treatment strategy, the adsorbents were impregnated with photocatalyst and used for the removal of aqueous organics. The spent adsorbents were then exposed to ultraviolet light to achieve photocatalyt...
MO-D-230A-06: Statistical Consistency Reviews (SCR) as a Chart Checking Tool

Purpose: Chart checking is key in radiation oncology QA. AAPM TG 40, Comprehensive QA…Oncology, TG53, QA for…Planning, and ACR Technical Standard... Therapy address chart checking. They recommend verifying monitor unit (MU) calculations by a second person or method before delivering 3 fractions or 10% total dose. Time‐consuming verifications are difficulty for multiple beam, heterogeneity corrected 3D and IMRT isodoses. We investigate statistical consistency reviews (SCR) of common treatments as one of several chart‐checking tools. Method and Materials: We collect data (gantry and collimator angles, SSD, field sizes, weights, fractions, dose/fraction, depths, outputs, MUs) for sites. We investigate parameter statistical consistency for the same treatment to similar patients. We report prostate four field treatments (66.6 Gy or 74 Gy/37 Fx) and IMRT five‐field (0, 75, 140, 220, 285 degrees) treatments (76 Gy/38 Fx). Results: Four field prostate treatments are surprisingly consistent. SSDs varied about 3% and MUs about 6%. Average AP SSD was 87. 9 +/− 1.9 cm (2%) requiring 47.4 +/− 2.5 (5%) MU for 45 cGy. Average lateral SSD was 80.7 +/− 2 cm (2.5%) yielding 63.3 +/− 2.5 MU (4%) for 45 cGy. IMRTtreatments MU variations were about 20%. Conclusion: How to use these data? Rather than check our historically accurate algorithm calculations against another algorithm, we review four‐field prostate MU calculations against statistical norms. A recent patient's AP 57 MU were greater than three standard deviations above the norm, 47 +/− 2.5 MU. His AP 79 cm SSD was well below the norm, 87.9 +/− 1.9 cm. A planning error? No, he was just obese, but it illustrates the value of knowing average parameters. IMRT plans appear more consistent than expected; SCR may have value for IMRT plan reviews. Statistical data will be presented for other sites (breast, head/neck, etc.) commonly treated with consistent methods.
Ultrasound demonstration of testicular microlithiasis in pediatric patients: is there an association with testicular germ cell tumors?

Background There is suggestion that testicular microlithiasis predicts risk of testicular malignancy, especially testicular germ cell tumors. This association remains uncertain.
H3N2 Influenza Virus Infection Induces Broadly Reactive Hemagglutinin Stalk Antibodies in Humans and Mice

Broadly neutralizing antibodies directed against the conserved stalk domain of the viral hemagglutinin have attracted increasing attention in recent years. However, only a limited number of stalk antibodies directed against group 2 influenza hemagglutinins have been isolated so far. Also, little is known about the general level of induction of these antibodies by influenza virus vaccination or infection. To characterize the anti-stalk humoral response in the mouse model as well as in humans, chimeric hemagglutinin constructs previously developed in our group were employed in serological assays. Whereas influenza virus infection induced high titers of stalk-reactive antibodies, immunization with inactivated influenza virus vaccines failed to do so in the mouse model. Analysis of serum samples collected from human individuals who were infected by influenza viruses also revealed the induction of stalk-reactive antibodies. Finally, we show that the hemagglutinin stalk-directed antibodies induced in mice and humans have broad reactivity and neutralizing activity in vitro and in vivo. The results of the study point toward the existence of highly conserved epitopes in the stalk domains of group 2 hemagglutinins, which can be targeted for the development of a universal influenza virus vaccine in humans.
Multiple Relationships in Nursing Consultation

In a consultation relationship, when boundaries are blurred or blended individuals become overinvested and overinvolved with each other. Therefore, nurse consultants must be wary of engaging in overinvolvement in consultation that leads to multiple relationships with their clients that can jeopardize the efficacy of their consultation practice. This article examines the nature of the consultation process, practice, and ethical standards that relate to nursing consultation and multiple relationships in consultation. Emphasis is placed on exploring the particularly problematic multiple relations that occur in nursing consultation and recommendation for dealing with them in practice. Clearly, engaging in multiple relationships in consultation is problematic because of the possibility of exploitation and harm. Nurse consultants must exercise caution before entering into a multiple relationship even when they feel that there is little potential for harm. They must learn how to effectively manage multiple relationships and be prepared to respond to the challenges that they present.
The use of relaxation in the treatment of self-injurious behavior

Abstract A severely self-injurious, profoundly retarded woman was taught to relax her hands and arms while still in full restraints. As relaxation was gradually learned, the restraints were gradually removed. By the end of training the subject had learned to relax when released from restraints with virtually no self-injurious behavior occuring throughout the training.
GUT scale inflation, non-thermal leptogenesis, and atmospheric neutrino oscillations

Abstract Leptogenesis scenarios in supersymmetric hybrid inflation models are considered. Sufficient lepton asymmetry leading to successfull baryogenesis can be obtained if the reheat temperature T r ≳10 6 GeV and the superpotential coupling parameter κ is in the range 10 −6 ≲ κ ≲10 −2 . For this range of κ the scalar spectral index n s ≃0.99±0.01. Constraints from neutrino mixing further restrict the range of κ that is allowed. We analyze in detail the case where the inflaton predominantly decays into the next-to-lightest right-handed Majorana neutrino taking into account especially the constraints from atmospheric neutrino oscillations.
A model for mechanics of primary lymphatic valves.

Recent experimental evidence indicates that lymphatics have two valve systems, a set of primary valves in the wall of the endothelial cells of initial lymphatics and a secondary valve system in the lumen of the lymphatics. While the intralymphatic secondary valves are well described, no analysis of the primary valves is available. We propose a model for primary lymphatics valves at the junctions between lymphatic endothelial cells. The model consists of two overlapping endothelial extensions at a cell junction in the initial lymphatics. One cell extension is firmly attached to the adjacent connective tissue while the other cell extension is not attached to the interstitial collagen. It is free to bend into the lumen of the lymphatic when the lymphatic pressure falls below the adjacent interstitial fluid pressure. Thereby the cell junction opens a gap permitting entry of interstitial fluid into the lymphatic lumen. When the lymphatic fluid pressure rises above the adjacent interstitial fluid pressure, the endothelial extensions contact each other and the junction is closed preventing fluid reflow into the interstitital space. The model illustrates the mechanics of valve action and provides the first time a rational analysis of the mechanisms underlying fluid collection in the initial lymphatics and lymph transport in the microcirculation.
Spectral selective absorption enhancement from stacked ultra-thin InGaAs/Si Fano resonance membranes

We report here modified absorption property of InGaAs nano-membrane on a Fano filter made of patterned single crystalline silicon nano-membrane transferred onto glass substrate. Placement of an ultra-thin InGaAs film on Si Fano resonant membrane enhances the absorption with simulated enhancement factor ~35 and measured enhancement factor of ~26. Leaky modes in the photonic crystal (PC) consist of high field standing waves that can be coupled to the out of plane radiation mode provided by lattice matching of the PC. We will present simulation, device fabrication and experimental characterization of stacked ultra-thin InGaAs/Si Fano resonance membrane in the IR regime.
Colchicine-induced cytoskeletal collapse and apoptosis in N-18 neuroblastoma cultures is rapidly reversed by applied S-100β

Brain connections depend on a stable association between dendrites and axons whose cytoskeleton is stabilized by the proteins MAP-2 and tau, respectively. The glial protein S-100β inhibits the phosphorylation by PKC of these two microtubule-associated proteins. In order to determine if exogenous S-100β can directly influence the cytoskeleton of living cells, cultures of N-18 cells (neuroblastoma clonal cell line) are treated for 30 min in serum-free medium with 10−6 M colchicine. In normal media, colchicine induces a rapid retraction of processes, membrane blebbing, nuclear collapse, and cell death. The observed cellular changes, due to cytoskeletal collapse after exposure to colchicine, are similar and consistent with the loss of processes and cytoplasmic blebbing seen in cells undergoing apoptosis. The addition of 20 ng/ml of S-100β after the initial 30-min exposure to colchicine prevents apoptosis, nuclear collapse and induces the regrowth of retracted processes. Cells were treated with the Hoechst Stain, a fluorescent marker that binds to nuclear material, to determine the occurrence of apoptosis in our cultures. In our control cultures, receiving no drugs, we found that 15.1% of the cells were apoptotic. When colchicine was added to the culture medium we found that 31.6% of the cells became apoptotic. However, when colchicine was followed by exposure to S-100β we found that only 5.4% of the cells were apoptotic. Our results suggest that extracellular application of the glial protein S-100β is sufficient to reverse colchicine-induced cytoskeletal collapse and prevent the resultant apoptosis of the cells. The increased levels of S-100β seen after brain injury and in certain neurological and psychiatric disorders may be considered as beneficial for brain recovery.
The ATP-ADP exchange catalyzed by phosphoryl transferase

Abstract Purified phosphoryl transferase catalyzes an ATP-ADP exchange reaction. Evidence is presented which excludes the possibility that the exchange activity of the preparation is due to contaminating adenylate kinase. The rate of the exchange reaction is affected by the molar ratio of ATP to ADP. The reaction is not highly specific either for the divalent metal ion or for the nucleoside triphosphate which serves as phosphoryl donor. Neither inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation and electron transfer nor uncouplers of oxidative phosphorylation affect the rate of the exchange reaction significantly. Hydroxylamine in high concentration inhibits the exchange reaction. Phosphoryl transferase does not catalyze several other types of reactions which might be expected to involve protein-bound phosphate as intermediates, such as the reactions catalyzed by pyrophosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and succinylthiokinase, respectively. A previously described protein fraction from mitochondria which inhibited the increase in P:O ratio induced by the phosphoryl transferase also inhibits the ATP-ADP exchange reaction catalyzed by the transferase. The possible role of phosphoryl transferase in the transfer of a phosphoryl group from ATP, formed during oxidative phosphorylation, to exogenous ADP is discussed.
Advances in poultry nutrition

Nutritional advances as discussed in these proceedings embrace historical perspective as well as futuristic perspectives. Indeed, we must have a clear understanding of the past to identify key "advances" that will mold the future of poultry nutrition. Early nutrition research is discussed with reference to in ovo nutrition and nutritional needs up to day seven post-hatch. In addition, the nutrition of the hen is key in early nutrition of chicks. Key advances that have impacted diet formulation are energy and nutrient liberating enzymes, and the use of L-threonine. Key nutritional mechanisms that have been elucidated the past two decades include nutrition in immunity and gut health. Advances in nutritional specifications for specific genetic strains of broilers and the use of models to tie nutrition into production objectives are clear advances that will only flourish in the future.
A Study of Microwave Leakage through Perforated Flat Plates (Short Papers)

A simple formula useful for predicting leakage through a circular hole array in a metallic flat plate is presented. A correction is given for plate thickness. The formula is applicable to arrays having either a 60/spl deg/ (staggered) or 90/spl deg/ (square) hole pattern, but is restricted to the case of 1) an obliquely incident plane wave with the E field polarized normal to the plane of incidence, and 2) large transmission loss. When theoretical values were compared to experimental data obtained on test samples having transmission losses greater than 20 dB, the agreement between theory and experiment was typically better than 1 dB at S band and 2 dB at X band.
Two-dimensional layered semiconductor/graphene heterostructures for solar photovoltaic applications

Schottky barriers formed by graphene (monolayer, bilayer, and multilayer) on 2D layered semiconductor tungsten disulfide (WS2) nanosheets are explored for solar energy harvesting. The characteristics of the graphene–WS2 Schottky junction vary significantly with the number of graphene layers on WS2, resulting in differences in solar cell performance. Compared with monolayer or stacked bilayer graphene, multilayer graphene helps in achieving improved solar cell performance due to superior electrical conductivity. The all-layered-material Schottky barrier solar cell employing WS2 as a photoactive semiconductor exhibits efficient photon absorption in the visible spectral range, yielding 3.3% photoelectric conversion efficiency with multilayer graphene as the Schottky contact. Carrier transport at the graphene/WS2 interface and the interfacial recombination process in the Schottky barrier solar cells are examined.
Low temperature heat capacities and thermal properties of DyAl2, ErAl2 and LuAl2

Abstract The heat capacities of the compounds DyAl 2 , ErAl 2 and LuAl 2 were measured in an adiabatic calorimeter from approximately 5 to 300 K. The compounds DyAl 2 and ErAl 2 show C P anomalies at 58.0 and 10.2 K, respectively, which are attributed to the destruction of magnetic order. In order to separate the crystal field and magnetic contributions from the measured heat capacities, it was necessary to evaluate the lattice heat capacity. The lattice term, C L was obtained from the C P data of LuAl 2 by a method of interpolation which gave values of C L for an arbitrary R Al 2 compound. Using this “interpolated lattice blank”, excess entropies associated with the crystal field and magnetic terms were computed throughout the series. These values are quite close to R In (2 J + 1). The results also indicate that, for the compounds studied, the degeneracy of the lowest ground state is completely lifted. In addition, the magnetic contribution to the heat capacity of the magnetically ordered R A1 2 phases was found to exhibit an exponential dependence below the temperature corresponding to the spin wave energy gap and a T 3 2 dependence above this temperature. Detailed calculations were performed to characterize the influence of cubic crystal field in ErAl 2 on the 4 I 15 2 ground state multiplet of the Er 3+ ion. It is concluded that the magnetic ordering in ErAl 2 takes place within the Γ 8 3 quartet state. Smoothed values of heat capacity, entropy and related thermodynamic functions are tabulated.
Flux crystal growth and structural analysis of two cesium uranium oxides, Cs2.2U5O16 and Cs2U4O13, containing multiple cation–cation interactions

Single crystals of Cs2.2U5O16 and Cs2U4O13 have been synthesized from a CsCl flux with the ramp rate controlling the formation of fully oxidized Cs2U4O13versus partially reduced Cs2.2U5O16. Their structures have been determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Cs2.2U5O16 crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/m with lattice parameters a = 13.4160(5) A, b = 15.5089(6) A, c = 7.9723(3) A, and β = 92.7120(10)° and Cs2U4O13 crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Ccmm with lattice parameters a = 13.5031(6) A, b = 15.4048(7) A, c = 39.5680(17) A. The two compounds contain related uranium frameworks with disordered Cs atoms within the channels. Both structures contain multiple cation–cation interactions, CCIs, which arise due to the three dimensional nature of the framework. Magnetic properties are reported for Cs2.2U5O16, which contains mixed valent U.
Caterpillars and moths: Part II. Dermatologic manifestations of encounters with Lepidoptera

Caterpillars are the larval forms of moths and butterflies and belong to the order Lepidoptera. Caterpillars, and occasionally moths, have evolved defense mechanisms, including irritating hairs, spines, venoms, and toxins that may cause human disease. The pathologic mechanisms underlying reactions to Lepidoptera are poorly understood. Lepidoptera are uncommonly recognized causes of localized stings, eczematous or papular dermatitis, and urticaria. Part I of this two-part series on caterpillars and moths reviews Lepidopteran life cycles, terminology, and the epidemiology of caterpillar and moth envenomation. It also reviews the known pathomechanisms of disease caused by Lepidopteran exposures and how they relate to diagnosis and management. Part II discusses the specific clinical patterns caused by Lepidopteran exposures, with particular emphasis on groups of caterpillars and moths that cause a similar pattern of disease. It also discusses current therapeutic options regarding each pattern of disease. Learning objectives After completing this learning activity, participants should be able to appropriately use current terminology of adverse reactions to caterpillars and moths, understand the epidemiology of these reactions, and use our current understanding of the pathologic mechanisms of these reaction patterns to guide treatment.
Heat pump detection from coarse grained smart meter data with positive and unlabeled learning

Recent advances in smart metering technology enable utility companies to have access to tremendous amount of smart meter data, from which the utility companies are eager to gain more insight about their customers. In this paper, we aim to detect electric heat pumps from coarse grained smart meter data for a heat pump marketing campaign. However, appliance detection is a challenging task, especially given a very low granularity and partial labeled even unlabeled data. Traditional methods install either a high granularity smart meter or sensors at every appliance, which is either too expensive or requires technical expertise. We propose a novel approach to detect heat pumps that utilizes low granularity smart meter data, prior sales data and weather data. In particular, motivated by the characteristics of heat pump consumption pattern, we extract novel features that are highly relevant to heat pump usage from smart meter data and weather data. Under the constraint that only a subset of heat pump users are available, we formalize the problem into a positive and unlabeled data classification and apply biased Support Vector Machine (BSVM) to our extracted features. Our empirical study on a real-world data set demonstrates the effectiveness of our method. Furthermore, our method has been deployed in a real-life setting where the partner electric company runs a targeted campaign for 292,496 customers. Based on the initial feedback, our detection algorithm can successfully detect substantial number of non-heat pump users who were identified heat pump users with the prior algorithm the company had used.
Satellite-derived estimates of potential carbon sequestration through afforestation of agricultural lands in the United States

Afforestation of marginal agricultural lands represents a promising option for carbon sequestration in terrestrial ecosystems. An ecosystem carbon model was used to generate new national maps of annual net primary production (NPP), one each for continuous land covers of ‘forest’, ‘crop’, and ‘rangeland’ over the entire U. S. continental area. Direct inputs of satellite “greenness” data from the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) sensor into the NASA-CASA carbon model at 8-km spatial resolution were used to estimate spatial variability in monthly NPP and potential biomass accumulation rates in a uniquely detailed manner. The model predictions of regrowth forest production lead to a conservative national projection of 0.3 Pg C as potential carbon stored each year on relatively low-production crop or rangeland areas. On a regional level, the top five states for total crop afforestation potential were: Texas, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, whereas the top five states for total rangeland afforestation potential are: Texas, California, Montana, New Mexico, and Colorado. Afforestation at this level of intensity has the capacity to offset at least one-fifth of annual fossil fuel emission of carbon in the United States. These projected afforestation carbon gains also match or exceed recent estimates of the annual sink for atmospheric CO2 in currently forested area of the country.
Natural mineral tetrahedrite as a direct source of thermoelectric materials

We show that a simple powder processing procedure using natural mineral tetrahedrite, the most widespread sulfosalt on earth, provides a low cost, high throughput means of producing thermoelectric materials with high conversion efficiency. These earth-abundant thermoelectrics can open the door to many new and inexpensive power generation opportunities.
Design and Implementation of FPGA Configuration Logic Block Using Asynchronous Semi-Static NCL Circuits

This paper proposes the design of a FPGA configurable logic block (CLB) using asynchronous semi-static NULL convention logic (NCL) Library. The proposed design uses three semi-static LLT's for implementing NCL logic functions. Each LLT can be configured to function as any one of the 27 fundamental NCL Semi-Static gates. The proposed CLB supports 10 inputs and three different outputs, each with resettable and inverting variations. The CLB has two modes: Configuration mode and Operation mode. The Static NCL FPGA CLB is simulated at the transistor level using the 1.8 V, 180 nm TSMC CMOS process.
Effects of marital conflict on children: recent advances and emerging themes in process‐oriented research

Background: The effects of marital conflict on children's adjustment are well documented. For the past decade research has increasingly focused on advancing a process-level understanding of these effects, that is, accounting for the particular responses and patterns embedded within specific contexts, histories, and developmental periods that account for children's outcomes over time. Methods: As a vehicle for presenting an update, this review follows the framework for process-oriented research initially proposed by Cummings and Cummings (1988), concentrating on recent research developments, and also considering new and emerging themes in this area of research. Results: In this regard, areas of advancement include (a) greater articulation of the effects of specific context/stimulus characteristics of marital conflict, (b) progress in identifying the psychological response processes in children (e.g., cognitive, emotional, social, physiological) that are affected and their possible role in accounting for relations between marital conflict and child outcomes, (c) greater understanding of the role of child characteristics, family history, and other contextual factors, including effects on children due to interrelations between marital conflict and parenting, and (d) advances in the conceptualization of children's outcomes, including that effects may be more productively viewed as dynamic processes of functioning rather than simply clinical diagnoses. Conclusions: Understanding of the impact of marital conflict on children as a function of time-related processes remains a gap in a process-oriented conceptualization of effects. Based on this review, a revised model for a process-oriented approach on the effects of marital discord on children is proposed and suggestions are made for future research directions.
The Viscostat: Productstat Method of Feed-Rate Control in Continuous Fermentations

Xanthan biopolymer has been produced in a single-stage continuous fermentation with Xanthomonas campestirs NRRL B-1459, using a viscostal control method instead of the conventional chemostat method. A Bendix Ultraviscoson11 sensed the fermentor viscosity, and the recorder–controller actuated the feed medium pump in an on–off control mode. Since all continuous fermentations eventually become contaminated or suffer culture variation, this work served also to demonstrate the effectiveness of the viscostat control. Neither the presence of a mold contaminant with specific growth rates lower than that of X. campestris, nor the presence of a bacterial contaminant of specific growth rate greater than X. campestris, affected the maintenance of constant viscosity in this control system.
Positive predictive value of an elevated cardiac troponin for type I myocardial infarction in ED patients based on the chief complaint

Abstract Background Cardiac troponin testing is used to aid the diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) in the emergency department (ED) for patients who present with a range of symptoms. From a clinical perspective, the distinction between MI due to acute coronary artery thrombosis (type I MI) and other forms of direct and secondary myocardial injury (type II MI) is very important. However, the positive predictive value (PPV) of an elevated troponin for diagnosing type I MI, based on clinical history, has not been described. The objective of this study was to determine the PPV of an elevated troponin for type I MI based on the ED chief complaint. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 1772 consecutive patients who had a troponin ordered in the ED at a tertiary care center over the period of March 1, 2013, to April 30, 2013. The chief complaint was based on official ED coding. For patients with a positive troponin, 2 authors independently reviewed the electronic medical record pertaining to the index encounter and subsequent hospitalization to adjudicate the cause. Results There was a significant association between the PPV of an elevated troponin for type I MI and the chief complaint. Patients with a chief complaint of chest pain were significantly more likely to have a type I MI compared to those without (PPV 84% vs 20%; Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR), 14.31; P P Conclusion Applying information on the PPV of troponin for type I MI based on the clinical history could improve troponin utilization and clinical decision making.
The importance of timing in the U.S. response to undocumented immigrants: A recursive dynamic approach

Abstract In an attempt to control the flow of undocumented immigrants, successive U.S. governments have considered large scale deportation, amnesties, expanding visa programs, and fining firms who hire undocumented workers. Using a comparative static model, Aguiar and Walmsley (2013), find that amnesties have a positive impact on the U.S. economy. However, such policies are one-time changes in the labor force, whose benefits diminish over time, and which are unlikely to stop the flow of undocumented workers or fulfill the demands of U.S. firms for cheap foreign labor. In this paper, we use a global dynamic model to investigate the long run implications of three policy scenarios: 1) a one-time amnesty for undocumented workers living in the U.S.; 2) a permanent increase in the number of foreign worker visas; and 3) enhanced border security. We find that an amnesty is much less effective than a permanent increase in the number of visas at promoting economic growth in the U.S., while enhanced border control by the U.S. has a small negative effect due to the relative size of the undocumented labor market in the U.S. Combined, the three policies offer a mechanism for supporting U.S. short- and long-term economic growth, while also benefiting suppliers of migrant workers, such as Mexico.
The effects of disk building on the distributions of refractory materials in the solar nebula

Abstract– Refractory materials, such as calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs) and crystalline silicates, are widely found in chondritic meteorites as well as comets, taken as evidence for large-scale mixing in the solar nebula. Most models for mixing in the solar nebula begin with a well-formed protoplanetary disk. Here, we relax this assumption by modeling the formation and evolution of the solar nebula during and after the period when it accreted material from its parent molecular cloud. We consider how disk building impacts the long-term evolution of the disk and the implications for grain transport and mixing within it. Our model shows that materials that formed before infall was complete could be preserved in primitive bodies, especially those that accreted in the outer disk. This potentially explains the discovery of refractory objects with low initial 26Al/27Al ratios in comets. Our model also shows that the highest fraction of refractory materials in meteorites formed around the time that infall stopped. Thus, we suggest that the calcium-aluminum-rich inclusions in chondrites would be dominated by the population that formed during the transition from class I to class II stage of young stellar objects. This helps us to understand the meaning of t = 0 in solar system chronology. Moreover, our model offers a possible explanation for the existence of isotopic variations observed among refractory materials—that the anomalous materials formed before the collapse of the parent molecular cloud was complete.
Noninvasive imaging of hemoglobin concentration and oxygenation in the rat brain using high-resolution photoacoustic tomography

Simultaneous transcranial imaging of two functional parameters, the total concentration of hemoglobin and the hemoglobin oxygen saturation, in the rat brain in vivo is realized noninvasively using laser-based photoacoustic tomography (PAT). As in optical diffusion spectroscopy, PAT can assess the optical absorption of endogenous chromophores, e.g., oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobins, at multiple optical wavelengths. However, PAT can provide high spatial resolution because its resolution is diffraction-limited by photoacoustic signals rather than by optical diffusion. Laser pulses at two wavelengths are used sequentially to acquire photoacoustic images of the vasculature in the cerebral cortex of a rat brain through the intact skin and skull. The distributions of blood volume and blood oxygenation in the cerebral cortical venous vessels, altered by systemic physiological modulations including hyperoxia, normoxia, and hypoxia, are visualized successfully with satisfactory spatial resolution. This technique, with its prominent sensitivity to endogenous contrast, can potentially contribute to the understanding of the interrelationship between neural, hemodynamic, and metabolic activities in the brain.
A new class of Ru(II) polyazine agents with potential for photodynamic therapy

Appending anthracene units to [(bpy)2Ru(dpp)]2+ results in Ru(II) agents that exhibit dynamic photoreactivity towards DNA and protein. [(Anthbpy)(bpy)Ru(dpp)]2+ and [(Anthbpy)2Ru(dpp)]2+ are the first metal–organic Ru(II) agent with dpp ligands shown to photomodify DNA in the presence or absence of oxygen, while also binding protein in an oxygen-dependent manner.
Pre-Conceptual Design Activities for the Materials Plasma Exposure Experiment

Abstract The development of next step fusion facilities such as DEMO or a Fusion Nuclear Science Facility (FNSF) requires first closing technology gaps in some critical areas. Understanding the material-plasma interface is necessary to enable the development of divertors for long-pulse plasma facilities. A pre-conceptual design for a proposed steady-state linear plasma device, the Materials Plasma Exposure Experiment (MPEX), is underway. A helicon plasma source along with ion cyclotron and electron Bernstein wave heating systems will produce ITER divertor relevant plasma conditions with steady-state parallel heat fluxes of up to 40 MW/m2 with ion fluxes up to 1024/m2 s on target. Current plans are for the device to use superconducting magnets to produce 1–2 T fields. As a steady-state device, active cooling will be required for components that interact with the plasma (targets, limiters, etc.), as well as for other plasma facing components (transport regions, vacuum tanks, diagnostic ports). Design concepts for the vacuum system, the cooling system, and the plasma heating systems have been completed. The device will include the capability for handling samples that have been neutron irradiated in order to consider the multivariate effects of neutrons, plasma, and high heat-flux on the microstructure of divertor candidate materials. A vacuum cask, which can be disconnected from the high field environment in order to perform in-vacuo diagnosis of the surface evolution is also planned for the facility.
Computational Provenance

Systematic mechanisms for capturing and exploring lineage information of digital artifacts are at the heart of a new field of research called computational provenance. This special issue aims to raise awareness and contribute to a better understanding of the issues surrounding computational provenance to the broader CiSE community.
Science, Materialism, and the Human Spirit

It is often said that the Western World no longer possesses the sense of common values which gave coherence to human activities in earlier ages. The part played by science in producing this crisis, and the contribution it can make to a solution, are considered in the following four papers which were given at the Convocation of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, held on April 1.
Thaxter's Thaxterogasters and Other Chilean Hypogeous Fungi

Of thirteen species of hypogeous fungi from Chile collected by Roland Thaxler, Thaxterogaster archeuretus and T. squamatus are here described as new. Genea aff. verrucosa is reported for the first ...
Plastically deformed Cu-based alloys as high-performance catalysts for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol

The severe plastic deformation of metals leads to the formation of nanotextured surfaces as well as the retention of significant strain energy, characteristics which are known to promote catalytic activity. Here, we demonstrate plastically deformed surfaces of copper and copper-based alloys as being highly catalytic using the well-studied model catalytic reaction which reduces 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol by borohydride. Among the materials studied, the most catalytically active is formed in a two-step process where metal chips are mechanically sheared from a Cu–Sn alloy containing precipitates and then exposed to an etchant which removes the precipitates from the exposed surface. The so-formed structures exhibit exceedingly high catalytic activity and set new benchmarks when incorporated into a fixed-bed reactor. The formation of catalytically active sites is shown to be strongly dependent on the presence of the precipitates during the deformation process, achieving an order of magnitude increase in the reaction rate constant when compared to similarly formed Cu–Sn catalysts lacking these precipitates. The work, therefore, demonstrates a new approach for generating catalytically active sites which may be applicable to other alloy combinations.
THE PHENOMENOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF TEACHING PROFESSIONALISM IN THE ARCHITECTURE DESIGN STUDIO CULTURE: A Case at the University of Kansas

This paper explores the phenomenology of professional teaching in the design studios of the School of Architecture at the University of Kansas. In contrast to previous general research, this study seeks to improve understanding of design studio instructors’ teaching by employing a qualitative phenomenological methodology based on the theory of constructivism. The use of developed analytical analysis approach in ATLAS.ti 7 reveals two main themes and their sub-categories related to studio instructors’ teaching professionalism, including four styles of teaching, four teaching methods, various teaching features, and factors that potentially influence teaching performance. Despite variations among studio instructors, the theoretical framework developed to assess teaching professionalism in the design studio characterizes instructors as street-level bureaucrats and as negotiators, shaping the quality of instruction provided. In bringing to light how studio instructors negotiate and develop their day-to-day professional teaching practices, the study aims to contribute to educational reform in support of the professional development of studio instructors.
The neurofibromatoses. What do we know about them

These are exciting times for patients and physicians concerned with the neurofibromatoses. These disorders have been known to medicine for more than 100 years, and now there is hope of achieving a thorough understanding of their pathogenesis. Despite this optimism, the need for careful clinical management of these patients and for solid clinical research to better define the natural history of the disorders will remain for some time. Success of the research depends in large part on studying patients with carefully documented diagnoses, and long after the genes for the neurofibromatoses are identified, work will go on to apply the new knowledge to the benefit of those affected with the disorders.
Interaction between quality and duration of sleep on the prevalence of type 2 diabetes

Objective To explore the effects related to quality and duration of sleep and their interactions on the prevalence of type-2 diabetes (T2DM).Methods 9 622 people aged 18 years and over were recruited for our cross-sectional study during March 2013 to May 2013.Unconditional logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between quality and duration of sleep on T2DM.Bootstrap was used to calculate the relative excess risk of interaction (RERI),the attributable proportion (AP) of interaction and the synergy index (SI).95％ confidence intervals (CI) of RERI,AP and SI were estimated.Results Concerning the comparison between cases and controls on both individual and total scores,other scores were all significantly different (P＜0.01),except for two items (time for falling asleep and drugs for hypnosis).The prevalence of T2DM in volunteers with poor sleeping quality was higher than that in volunteers with good sleeping quality (P＜0.01).Individuals with sleep duration ＜6 hours had a higher prevalence of T2DM,when compared with individuals with sleep duration of 6-8 hours (P＜0.01).After adjusting for age,gender,level of education,occupation,family history of diabetes,status on cigarette smoking,alcohol intake,physical activities and body mass index (BMI),the prevalence of T2DM appeared the highest in those with poor sleeping quality and short duration (OR=4.78,95％ CI:3.32-6.99; P＜0.01),when compared with those who had good sleep quality and 6-8 h sleep duration.The risk of T2DM still increased in people who had poor sleep or long duration (OR=1.92,95％ CI:1.18-3.31; P＜0.01).Values of RERI,AP and SI (with 95％ CI) were 2.33 (1.23-8.79),0.67 (0.21-0.83) and 6.87 (2.33-10.75),respectively,for the interaction between poor sleep quality and short sleep duration,while 0.33 (-0.12-1.13),0.17 (-0.03-0.51),1.56 (0.76-2.74) for the interaction between good sleep quality and long sleep duration.Conclusion Our results suggested that there were additive interactions between poor quality and shorter duration of sleep. Key words: Type 2 diabetes; Sleep quality; Sleep duration; Interaction