cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bayesian model averaging assessment on groundwater management under model structure uncertainty

This study introduces Bayesian model averaging (BMA) to deal with model structure uncertainty in groundwater management decisions. A robust optimized policy should take into account model parameter uncertainty as well as uncertainty in imprecise model structure. Due to a limited amount of groundwater head data and hydraulic conductivity data, multiple simulation models are developed based on different head boundary condition values and semivariogram models of hydraulic conductivity. Instead of selecting the best simulation model, a variance-window-based BMA method is introduced to the management model to utilize all simulation models to predict chloride concentration. Given different semivariogram models, the spatially correlated hydraulic conductivity distributions are estimated by the generalized parameterization (GP) method that combines the Voronoi zones and the ordinary kriging (OK) estimates. The model weights of BMA are estimated by the Bayesian information criterion (BIC) and the variance window in the maximum likelihood estimation. The simulation models are then weighted to predict chloride concentrations within the constraints of the management model. The methodology is implemented to manage saltwater intrusion in the “1,500-foot” sand aquifer in the Baton Rouge area, Louisiana. The management model aims to obtain optimal joint operations of the hydraulic barrier system and the saltwater extraction system to mitigate saltwater intrusion. A genetic algorithm (GA) is used to obtain the optimal injection and extraction policies. Using the BMA predictions, higher injection rates and pumping rates are needed to cover more constraint violations, which do not occur if a single best model is used.
Perceptual dimensions that influence consumers' choices of milk type for beverage use

Factor analysis is used to identify two perceptual dimensions that influence consumers' choices among whole, lowfat, and skim milk. The first dimension combines satisfaction and versatility attributes, and the second combines health and nutrition attributes. The relative importance of the two dimensions differs greatly among users of the three milk types. Whole milk drinkers choose among milk types based primarily on satisfaction and versatility attributes. Skim milk drinkers choose based primarily on health and nutrition attributes. Lowfat milk drinkers use the satisfaction and versatility dimension to compare lowfat to skim milk and the health and nutrition dimension to compare lowfat to whole milk. © 1995 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Effect of bone morphogenetic proteins 2 and 7 on septal chondrocytes in alginate

Objective To determine the effects of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP)-2 and -7, and serum, on extracellular matrix production by human septal chondrocytes in alginate. Study design Human nasal septal chondrocytes were expanded, suspended in alginate, and cultured in BMP-2 or 7, with and without serum. The optimal concentration of each growth factor was determined based on matrix production. Next, the synergistic effects of BMP-2 and -7 at optimal concentrations were determined on separate beads, based on matrix quantity and histology. Results Matrix content was highest with concentrations of BMP-2 and -7 of 100 ng/ml and 20 ng/ml, respectively, with serum. Adding both BMP-2 and -7, with serum, increased matrix content by factors of 5.1 versus serum-only cultures, 2.7 versus only BMP-2 with serum, and 2.4 versus only BMP-7 with serum. All comparisons were statistically significant. Conclusion BMP-2 and -7 significantly increase production of extracellular matrix by septal chondrocytes suspended in alginate. The presence of serum improves matrix production. Significance BMP-2 and -7 have great potential for use in cartilage tissue engineering.
Manipulating crystallization variables to enhance crystal purity

Success has been achieved in enhancing crystal purity through control of process variables such as mixing intensity, cooling rate, and rate of cosolvent or precipitant addition. However, the use of chemical variables to affect changes in solution thermodynamics that enhance crystal purity has remained relatively unexplored. Dramatic changes in amino acid solubility have been noted upon alteration of the solution polarity and ionic strength through the addition of cosolvents and electrolytes to the aqueous solutions. The current research is designed to exploit these varying effects of cosolvents and electrolytes for amino acid purification purposes.
Infective Endocarditis Due to Unusual or Fastidious Microorganisms

Infective endocarditis due to fastidious microorganisms is commonly encountered in clinical practice. Some organisms such as fungi account for up to 15% of cases of prosthetic valve infective endocarditis, whereas organisms of the HACEK group (Haemophilus parainfluenzae, H. aphrophilus, and H. paraphrophilus, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Cardiobacterium hominis, Eikenella corrodens, and Kingella kingae) cause 3% of community-acquired cases of infective endocarditis. Special techniques are necessary to identify these microorganisms. A history of contact with mammals or birds may suggest infection caused by Coxiella burnetii (Q fever), Brucella species, or Chlamydia psittaci. A nosocomial cluster of postsurgical infective endocarditis may be caused by Legionella species or Mycobacterium species. If risk factors that are commonly associated with fungal infections (cardiac surgical treatment, prolonged hospitalization, indwelling central venous catheters, and long-term antibiotic use) are present, fungal endocarditis is possible. Patients with endocarditis and a history of periodontal disease or dental work in whom routine blood cultures are negative might have infection due to nutritionally variant streptococci or bacteria of the HACEK group. Communication between the microbiologist and the clinician is of crucial importance for identification of these microorganisms early during the course of the infection before complications such as embolization or valvular failure occur. In this article, we review the microbiologic and clinical features of these organisms and provide recommendations for diagnosis and treatment.
High blood pressure in the geriatric population: treatment considerations.

Increases in blood pressure (BP), particularly systolic BP, have traditionally been considered to be a normal or "physiologic" component of the aging process. However, it is now clear that elevated BP, particularly systolic BP, represents a pathophysiologic manifestation of altered cardiovascular physiology and structure, ultimately manifesting as increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality (myocardial infarction, stroke, and total cardiovascular death rates). More than one half of the population aged 65 or older have hypertension, defined as BP > or = 140/90 mm Hg. Framingham data indicate that the risk of coronary heart disease increases with lower diastolic BP at any level of systolic BP > or = 120 mm Hg, thus further stressing the importance of pressure-induced arterial vascular compliance changes and introducing pulse pressure as an important predictor of cardiovascular risk. Geriatric hypertension is generally of a salt-sensitive nature and often associated with impaired baroreflex function. Reduction in sodium intake is important and effective in older patients, and should be initiated before or together with drug therapy. Encouraging data from clinical trials now strongly support the aggressive anti-hypertensive treatment of elderly patients. A recent meta-analysis of eight outcome trials evaluating the risks of treated and untreated isolated systolic hypertension has demonstrated a 30% reduction in combined fatal and nonfatal stroke, a 26% reduction in fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, and a 13% reduction in total mortality. Those drugs effective in younger patients also appear effective in the elderly; low-dose thiazides (alone or in combination with potassium sparing agents), beta blockers, long-acting dihydropyridine calcium antagonists, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and angiotensin receptor blockers all have demonstrated efficacy. In selecting an agent, it is important to consider comorbid disease states, and to recognize the potential of all nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, whether conventional or cyclooxygenase-2 specific, to increase BP or interfere with other antihypertensive agents. In general, the elderly should be treated to target BP levels identical to those suggested for younger patients, although a more gradual reduction to target, perhaps with an intermediate BP goal of < 160 mm Hg, may be advisable.
The plant metabolite 6-methoxybenzoxazolinone interacts with follicle-stimulating hormone to enhance ovarian growth.

6-Methoxybenzoxazolinone (6-MBOA) is a novel plant metabolite that enhances reproductive status in vertebrate consumers while it inhibits insect, fungal, and bacterial infestation of the plant. Ovaries of prepubertal rats show a dose response to increasing amounts of 6-MBOA.administered in Silastic capsule implants. Ovaries increased in size in response to capsules with 0.5-3.0 cm exposed surface area of 6-MBOA, whereas larger capsules (6 cm 6-MBOA) had no effect. Removal of the pituitary in both prepubertal and mature rats eliminated the stimulatory influence of 6-MBOA. In hypophysectomized animals treated with diethylstibestrol implants, 6-MBOA did not affect ovarian weight and no animals ovulated. Administration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) increased ovarian weight and stimulated production of ova, and FSH combined with 6-MBOA resulted in larger ovaries that released more ova. 6-MBOA also enhanced ovarian growth in intact prepubertal animals treated with pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin. These results show that 6-MBOA has the ability to interact with FSH to stimulate follicular development and increase ovulation. Non-steroidal plant compounds may have a significant impact on the reproductive patterns of wild animal populations.
T cell receptor-stimulated generation of hydrogen peroxide inhibits MEK-ERK activation and lck serine phosphorylation

Abstract Previous studies indicated that antigen receptor (TcR) stimulation of mature T cells induced rapid generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The goal of the current study was to examine the role(s) of ROS in TcR signal transduction, with a focus upon the redox-sensitive MAPK family. TcR cross-linking of primary human T blasts and Jurkat human T cells rapidly activated the ERK, JNK, p38 and Akt kinases within minutes, and was temporally associated with TcR-stimulated production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). TcR-induced activation of ERK was selectively augmented and sustained in the presence of pharmacologic antioxidants that can quench or inhibit H2O2 production (NAC, MnTBAP and Ebselen, but not DPI), while activation of JNK and Akt were largely unaffected. This was paralleled by concurrent changes in MEK1/2 phosphorylation, suggesting that ROS acted upstream of MEK-ERK activation. Molecular targeting of H2O2 by overexpression of peroxiredoxin II, a thioredoxin dependent peroxidase, also increased and sustained ERK and MEK activation upon TcR cross-linking. Enhancement of ERK phosphorylation by antioxidants correlated with increased and sustained serine phosphorylation of the src-family kinase lck, a known ERK substrate. Thus, the data suggest that TcR-stimulated production of hydrogen peroxide negatively feeds back to dampen antigen-stimulated ERK activation and this redox-dependent regulation may serve to modulate key steps in TcR signaling.
NF-kappa B: a family of inducible and differentially expressed enhancer-binding proteins in human T cells.

Abstract A sensitive DNA-protein crosslinking approach has been used to characterize four inducible T-cell proteins (50 kDa, 55 kDa, 75 kDa, and 85 kDa) that specifically bind to kappa B enhancer elements. Partial proteolytic mapping revealed a distinct cleavage pattern for three of these proteins. These polypeptides are sequestered as inactive precursors in the cytosol of unstimulated T cells but can be converted into active forms in vivo by phorbol ester stimulation or in vitro by detergent treatment. The induction of these proteins by phorbol ester results in a strikingly biphasic pattern of nuclear expression with the 55-kDa and 75-kDa species appearing within minutes, whereas the 50-kDa and 85-kDa species appear only several hours after cellular stimulation. These data suggest that NF-kappa B-binding activity may not correspond to a single polypeptide but rather a family of at least four inducible and differentially regulated DNA-binding proteins that are expressed with distinct kinetics in human T lymphocytes.
The Combined Use of a Pedicled Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap and a Groin Flap for Reconstruction of a Dorsal and Volar Hand Blast Injury

A hand blast injury case causing a large through-and-through composite tissue loss is presented. This injury resulted in a dorsal and a palmar hand defect with segmental bone loss. Soft tissue coverage of both dorsal and palmar wounds was achieved by two separate pedicle flaps with pedicles closely arising from the femoral artery: a superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap and a groin flap. Simultaneously, a large iliac corticocancellous bone graft was harvested from the same incision to be used for the wrist fusion procedure. This approach uses two separate pedicled flaps with robust independent blood supply to cover simultaneously a dorsal and a volar hand wound. A large through-and-through hand defect can be reconstructed readily with this approach, and it is associated with much less perioperative morbidity compared to free composite tissue transfer options. The dissection of both the groin flap and the SIEA flap is straightforward and can be easily performed by a single surgeon. The combined use of these two flaps allows stable coverage of sizable dorsal and palmar wounds of the hand.
Characterization of Multiple Transient Acoustical Sources From Time-Transform Representations

This paper introduces a new framework for detecting, classifying, and estimating the signatures of multiple transient acoustical sources from a time-transform representation (TTR) of an audio waveform. A TTR is a vector observation sequence containing the coefficients of consecutive windows of data with respect to known sampled basis waveforms. A set of likelihood ratio tests is hierarchically applied to each time slice of a TTR to detect and classify signals in the presence of interference. Since the signatures of each acoustical event typically span several adjacent dependent observations, a Kalman filter is used to generate the parameters necessary for computing the likelihood values. The experimental results of applying the proposed method to a problem of detecting and classifying man-made and natural transient acoustical events in national park soundscape recordings attest to its effectiveness at performing the aforementioned tasks.
Cholestatic liver diseases in adults

Cholestatic liver diseases are a diverse group of disorders that are recognized by either increases in laboratory studies or the appearance of jaundice, fatigue, pruritus, and/or complications of cirrhosis. The etiologies for most forms of these diseases are unknown. In this paper, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are reviewed for select forms of cholestatic disorders and for the management of shared complications of cholestatic illness.
Linewidth of THz intersubband transitions in GaAs/AlGaAs quantum wells

Terahertz-frequency intersubband transitions in semiconductor quantum wells are of interest due to the potential for making devices which operate at THz frequencies, and the importance of many body interactions on the intersubband dynamics. We present measurements of the linear absorption linewidth of ISB transitions in a single 40 nm delta-doped GaAs/Al0.3Ga0.7As square quantum well, with a transition energy of order 10 meV. Separate back- and front-gates allow independent control of charge density and DC bias. The absorption linewidth is proportional to the dephasing rate of the collective excitation. In order to examine the dephasing dynamics at THz frequencies, we have begun a detailed measurement of the ISB absorption versus charge density.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Inkjet printed microwave frequency multilayer antennas

Direct-write technologies offer a new degree of freedom for developing complex multilayer microwave frequency devices (Whites et al., 2006). We have developed a technique incorporating multiple direct-write technologies to sequentially layer multiple materials to produce devices. In this process, Cima NanoTech silver conductive ink (Cima NanoTech Inc., 2006) is deposited with a FUJIFILM Diamtix DMP-2830 inkjet printer (FUJIFILM Dimatix Inc., 2006) and liquid polyimide is deposited using a nScrypt model 600 machine (nScrypt, Inc., 2006). Using this process a dual frequency band stacked patch antenna was fabricated as an example of microwave frequency devices that can be realized with sequentially layered direct-write of multiple materials.
Evolutionary rule-based systems for imbalanced data sets

This paper investigates the capabilities of evolutionary on-line rule-based systems, also called learning classifier systems (LCSs), for extracting knowledge from imbalanced data. While some learners may suffer from class imbalances and instances sparsely distributed around the feature space, we show that LCSs are flexible methods that can be adapted to detect such cases and find suitable models. Results on artificial data sets specifically designed for testing the capabilities of LCSs in imbalanced data show that LCSs are able to extract knowledge from highly imbalanced domains. When LCSs are used with real-world problems, they demonstrate to be one of the most robust methods compared with instance-based learners, decision trees, and support vector machines. Moreover, all the learners benefit from re-sampling techniques. Although there is not a re-sampling technique that performs best in all data sets and for all learners, those based in over-sampling seem to perform better on average. The paper adapts and analyzes LCSs for challenging imbalanced data sets and establishes the bases for further studying the combination of re-sampling technique and learner best suited to a specific kind of problem.
Regulation of P-glycoprotein and other ABC drug transporters at the blood–brain barrier

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are important selective elements of the blood–brain barrier. They line the luminal plasma membrane of the brain capillary endothelium, facing the vascular space, and both protect the central nervous system from entry of neurotoxicants and limit the access of therapeutic drugs to the brain parenchyma. Recent studies highlight the multiple signaling pathways through which the expression and activity of P-glycoprotein and other ABC transporters are modulated in response to xenobiotics, stress and disease. The results show that increased transporter expression occurs in response to signals that activate specific transcription factors, including pregnane-X receptor, constitutive androstane receptor, nuclear factor-κB and activator protein-1, and that reduced transporter activity occurs rapidly and reversibly in response to signaling through Src kinase, protein kinase C and estrogen receptors. A detailed understanding of such regulation can provide the basis for improved neuroprotection and enhanced therapeutic drug delivery to the brain.
Efficient monitoring of safety properties

The problem of testing whether a finite execution trace of events generated by an executing program violates a linear temporal logic (LTL) formula occurs naturally in runtime analysis of software. Two efficient algorithms for this problem are presented in this paper, both for checking safety formulae of the form “always P”, where P is a past-time LTL formula. The first algorithm is implemented by rewriting, and the second synthesizes efficient code from formulae. Further optimizations of the second algorithm are suggested, reducing space and time consumption. Special operators suitable for writing succinct specifications are discussed and shown to be equivalent to the standard past-time operators. This work is part of NASA’s PathExplorer project, the objective of which is to construct a flexible framework for efficient monitoring and analysis of program executions.
A direct derivation of a single-antenna reciprocity relation for the time domain

In this paper, a single-antenna reciprocity relation is derived for the time domain. First, the antenna is considered on transmission; next, the same antenna is considered when it is receiving an incident plane wave. The two states, transmission and reception, are related by the application of a modified form of the reciprocity theorem for electromagnetic fields with general time dependence due to Cheo. The derivation of the reciprocity relation for the antenna makes use of simple geometric arguments to evaluate the spatial/temporal integrals that occur in the theorem. A few extensions of the reciprocity relation are also described.
Modular construction for the programmed assembly of molecular crystals and liquid crystals

This research aims to develop schemes for the programmed assembly of molecular materials. The underlying premise guiding this work is that structural information stored in the molecular constituents dictates their condensed phase organization (i.e. through the sum of all non-covalent interactions). The challenge then is to design molecular building blocks that encode this information in a decipherable manner. Our approach has relied on the use of organic nanoarchitectures, which we believe will serve as “modular units” for programmed assembly. Large molecules of well defined constitution and geometry offer the advantage that a high level of information can be incorporated into a single unit. The design and synthesis of nanoscale macrocyclics and macrobicyclics for this purpose has been achieved. Studies on the solution aggregation of the macrocyclics have provided a unique opportunity to glimpse some of the interactions which may influence solid state ordering. These building blocks are being used for the rational design of novel materials such as porous organic crystals and tubular mesophases.
Low-Voltage Universal Cell (LVUC): A Compact Analog/Digital Logic Block for Mixed Signal FPGAs

A highly versatile general purpose analog/digital/ neural configurable logic block (LVUC) for utilization in the next generation of mixed signal field programmable gate arrays is reported. The cell is a truly universal building block, very compact and has low power, low voltage requirements and operates with rail-to-rail analog and digital signals. It can be easily configured to perform as a digital, analog, analog to digital, digital to analog and neural configurable block. Experimental results of a fabricated test chip are presented that validate the proposed cell operating with rail-to-rail signals from a single supply as low as 1.4V
Predicted Outcome Value and Uncertainty Reduction Theories A Test of Competing Perspectives

This research tests several contrasting predictions from uncertainty reduction and predicted outcome value theories. Pairs of college classmates engaged in initial conversations with one another on the first day of classes. Research participants then reported on each pair's behavior during these conversations and their reactions to their partner and relationship. With few exceptions, predicted outcome value theory proposals were consistently supported by the results of this investigation. However, results failed to support uncertainty reduction theory's original axioms and theorems when predicted outcome value was taken into account. These findings are interpreted as strongly supporting the predicted outcome value perspective and its claim that uncertainty reduction processes are subservient to outcome maximization goals in initial interactions.
A palindromic regulatory site within vertebrate GATA-1 promoters requires both zinc fingers of the GATA-1 DNA-binding domain for high-affinity interaction.

GATA-1, a transcription factor essential for the development of the erythroid lineage, contains two adjacent highly conserved zincfinger motifs. The carboxy-terminalfinger is necessary and sufficient for specific binding to the consensus GATA recognition sequence: mutant proteins containing only the amino-terminalfinger do not bind. Here we identify a DNA sequence (GATApal) for which the GATA-1 amino-terminalfinger makes a critical contribution to the strength of binding. The site occurs in the GATA-1 gene promoters of chickens, mice, and humans but occurs very infrequently in other vertebrate genes known to be regulated by GATA proteins. GATApal is a palindromic site composed of one complete [(A/T)GATA(A/G)] and one partial (GAT) canonical motif. Deletion of the partial motif changes the site to a normal GATA site and also reduces by as much as eightfold the activity of the GATA-1 promoter in an erythroid precursor cell. We propose that GATApal is important for positive regulation of GATA-1 expression in erythroid cells.
Immunophenotypic Profile of Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma/Waldenström Macroglobulinemia

We retrospectively reviewed the immunophenotypic profile of 75 cases of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (LPL/WM) analyzed by flow cytometry. All patients had monoclonal IgM (median, 2,100 mg/dL [21 g/L]) in serum and were considered clinically to have WM. The neoplastic cells, in all cases, expressed monoclonal immunoglobulin light chain (κ, 55; λ, 20) and CD19, and every case assessed was positive for CD20 (n = 68) and CD52 (n = 60). The results for other antigens assessed in decreasing frequency of positivity were as follows: surface IgM (26/28 [93%]), CD79b (11/13 [85%]), CD11c (13/16 [81%]), CD25 (5/7 [71%]), CD23 (17/28 [61%]), CD38 (24/50 [48%]), FMC7 (11/29 [38%]), CD22 (4/12 [33%]), CD5 (3/65 [5%]), and CD10 (1/38 [3%]). These results show that the immunophenotype of LPL/WM is variable and overlaps with other B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders. CD23, usually of dim intensity, and CD11c are expressed commonly in LPL/WM. Rare CD5+ and CD10+ cases
Infantile risk factors for obesity in preschool children

Purpose :Childhood obesity is a problem that places a child at great risk for becoming an obese adult. To prevent obesity, it is important to focus on early life risk factors that may contribute to childhood obesity. The aim of this study is to find obesity-causing infantile risk factors in preschool children. Methods :A total of 223 children aged 3 to 5 years old from Busan were the subjects of this study. We calculated their body mass index (BMI) and classified them into two groups (normal weight and overweight/obese children). Information regarding parental weight and height, mother's educational level and employment status, birth weight, feeding patterns, start time of weaning, duration of night feeding, and fosterer was obtained by using questionnaires. Results :There were 68 (30.5%) overweight/obese children and 155 (69.5%) normal weight children. Overweight/obese children were significantly associated with formula milk feeding, rapid weight gain during the first 6 months, and maternal obesity (P<0.05). There were no statistical differences in paternal obesity, mothers educational level and employment status, birth weight, start time of weaning, duration of night feeding, and fosterer between the normal and overweight/obese children. Conclusion :Although healthy diet and regular exercise will remain the cornerstones of weight management in obese children, our data supports the view that education about maintaining a normal weight could be introduced much earlier in families with high-risk children. (Korean J Pediatr 2008;51:804-811)
Implantable Device to Monitor Cardiac Activity with Sternal Wires

Background Sternal wires are used to close the thoracic cavity and facilitate healing after median sternotomy (MS). We invented an implantable device that uses these wires as sensors to monitor cardiac electrical activity and tested its utility in collecting electrocardiography (ECG) data in vivo. Methods The wafer-thin silicone device has grooves with embedded metal contacts that secure the sternal wires and connect them to an ECG sensor. We used radiofrequency telemetry to communicate with the implanted device, which was evaluated in three acute swine studies and one chronic-survival swine study. The device was implanted via MS in two acute studies and left thoracotomy in the other. In two acute studies, ECG data were collected with the pigs in four different positions for 2 minutes each; in the third study, we induced ischemia and collected ECG data. For the chronic study, we implanted the device via a left thoracotomy and obtained ECG data weekly until euthanasia on day 27. After each study, the sternum and device were removed and examined. Results The ECG tracings showed distinct P, QRS, and T waveforms with minimal positional or temporal variability. Our device captured signal changes during ischemia before the external control did. In the chronic study, necropsy showed appropriate healing, fibrous encapsulation, and no infection or adverse reactions. Conclusions These initial results showed that our novel device can use sternal wires as electrodes in vivo to monitor cardiac electrical activity and safely capture physiologic signals after surgical placement.
Status of Stanford magnetic monopole search with eight-loop superconducting detector

A model has been developed which includes all significant inductive coupling of the Stanford monopole detector pickup loops and allows variation of the individual inductances to optimize the fit to the data. With this model, one can calculate the response of the detector to monopoles, with allowances for the inoperative panels and discrepancies in the inductances. The detector has been in operation for approximately 450 days at this time. Of this, there are 6600 hours of computer data, and 6000 of these hours meet the criteria for active sensing time. No candidate monopole events have been observed. The exposure to date represents a limit on the flux of cosmic ray magnetic poles of 7.8*10/sup -13/ cm/sup -2/ s/sup -1/ sr/sup -1/ at 90% confidence level. >
Note-Comments on A Quantity Discount Pricing Model to Increase Vendor Profits

Monahan Monahan, J. P. 1984. A quantity discount pricing model to increase vendor profits. Management Sci. June 720-726. adapted the quantity discount model of inventory theory to the problem of determining an optimal quantity discount schedule from a vendor's point of view, and opened up an important direction of research. However, his one-item, one-customer, one-vendor model is based on several implicit assumptions that must be judged unreasonable. Monahan must account for the vendor's inventory carrying charges and redefine his variable S2. It is shown that a rational vendor's manufacturing frequency would not be identical to the buyer's ordering frequency if the vendor's manufacturing setup costs are substantially larger than the buyer's ordering costs. A numerical example presented in this note also questions the practical usefulness of Monahan's model even after its theoretical inaccuracies axe corrected. Monahan's model may explain discounts that are a fraction of 1% of the price of an item, but it fails to explain commonly observed magnitudes of quantity discounts, such as 10% of the unit price.
Prevalence of astroviruses in a children's hospital

An enzyme immunoassay for astrovirus was used to screen 357 stool samples from 267 symptomatic inpatients at a tertiary-care children's hospital. Thirty stool samples from 26 patients contained astrovirus antigen, while rotavirus was found in 34 samples and Clostridium difficile toxin was found in 40. Half of the astrovirus infections were nosocomial. Additional pathogens were identified in six of the astrovirus antigen-positive stool samples. Most (80%) of the astroviruses recovered were of serotype 1. Astrovirus infections were significantly more common than rotavirus or C. difficile infections in very young infants and in those with surgical short-bowel syndrome.
Cytomegalovirus disease is associated with higher all‐cause mortality after lung transplantation despite extended antiviral prophylaxis

Background The duration of anticytomegalovirus (CMV) prophylaxis after lung transplantation (LT) varies among transplant centers. Methods A retrospective review of CMV donor-seropositive/recipient-seronegative (D+/R-) and CMV recipient-seropositive (R+) LT patients between January 2005 and September 2012 was performed. Starting January 2007, valganciclovir prophylaxis was given for at least 12 months (often lifelong) for CMV D+/R- and extended from three to six months for R+ LT patients. Risks of CMV infection and CMV disease, and mortality after LT, were assessed. Results A total of 88 LT patients were studied, including 32 CMV D+/R-, and 56 R+ patients. During the follow-up period, 11 (12.5%) patients had asymptomatic CMV infection, and nine (10.3%) developed CMV disease. CMV disease (HR, 4.189; 95% CI: 1.672-10.495; p = 0.002) and CMV infection and disease (HR, 3.775; 95% CI: 1.729-8.240; p = 0.001) were significant risk factors for mortality. Overall, no significant difference was observed in rates of CMV infection or disease among LT recipients who received shorter vs. extended CMV prophylaxis. Conclusions Despite extended prophylaxis, LT patients remain at risk of CMV infection and disease. CMV remains associated with increased mortality after transplantation.
Public Sector Organizations and Knowledge Management

As the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age and begins their mass exodus from the workforce, public sector organizations will have to consider ways to retain much of the valuable knowledge this generation has amassed. The process of accessing and retaining this information is complex for several reasons. First, public sector managers generally do not understand the difference between knowledge and information. Public sector organizations, for example, have limited structural capacity to manage knowledge since the information they use are not designed to manage complex theories, ideas, multi-tiered arguments and historical lessons. Information systems used by public sector organizations are designed to manage empirical data in its simplest form. It's also important to consider the culture of the contemporary workforce in this process. There is often a disconnect between younger and older workers which is profoundly influenced by western culture. This connection must exist in order for the transfer of useful and mission critical knowledge to take place. Finally, knowledge transfer and effective knowledge management takes time. The level of knowledge workers have on any given issue expands with time, as such, an effective knowledge management program must take into account the time necessary to develop and implement such a plan. This paper examines the inherent and structural barriers to effective knowledge management in public sector organizations. In addition, this paper identifies the key components of an effective knowledge management program, as well as, the general process of developing and implementing such a plan.
The Analysis of Free Radicals, Lipid Peroxides, Antioxidant Enzymes and Compounds Related to Oxidative Stress as Applied to the Clinical Chemistry Laboratory

It is almost impossible to read through a medical journal, or even the newspaper and not encounter an article that deals with oxidative stress, or with antioxidant involvement in a disease process. Indeed, free radicals, their reactive intermediates, low molecular weight aldehyde byproducts derived from lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status are important measurements we can utilize to provide a more comprehensive understanding of pathologic mechanisms (1–8). All subcellular organelles normally generate superoxide (O2·-), hydrogen peroxide and a variety of free radicals ie; hydroyl (OH·), perhydroxy(HO2·), carbon and nitrogen centered. It has been estimated that 10 billion of these radicals are produced daily via autoxidation and metabolic reactions. In cellular injury, increased amounts of O2·- radicals and peroxides can arise from the mitochondrial electron-transport system during hypoxia and following reperfusion, they can arise primarily through the activation of NADPH oxidase in phagocyte plasma membranes or from platelet derived endoperoxides of arachidonic acid, from the conversion of xanthine dehydrogenase to xanthine oxidase in tissue and from the generation of OH· radicals in iron-catalyzed reactions involving hemoproteins (9). The most current review by Chaudiere covers theoretical and factual site-specific formation and damage (10).
Assessing patterns of dissolved methane in shallow aquifers related to Carboniferous and Triassic sedimentary basins, Nova Scotia, Canada

The study examines patterns of groundwater methane in shallow aquifers located in Carboniferous and Triassic sedimentary basins in Nova Scotia to improve our understanding of the factors influencing the observed distribution. A combined total of over 800 dissolved methane samples were collected from water wells during surveys conducted in 1975 and 2013. Statistical analyses of the methane data did not detect a significant difference between groupings of methane concentrations for aquifer type, bedrock group, and distance to wetlands. A significant difference, however, was observed between sedimentary basins and bedrock formations, which was largely attributed to localized higher methane concentrations found in the Stellarton Formation/basin compared to other on-shore sedimentary basins of the province. A significant difference was also found between groupings of methane data based on the distance to major stream systems, which was used to indicate topographic position (i.e., valley vs. upslope). The low sample density and percentage of detectable methane concentrations, and the multiple sources of dissolved methane in shallow groundwater in sedimentary basins made it difficult to detect and interpret statistical and spatial trends. Geochemical classification indicates that elevated dissolved methane in well water is associated with sodium dominated groundwater.
The Challenge for Urologists Is to Screen, Detect, and Treat Prostate Cancer "Smarter": Will Ablative Technology Result in Smarter Treatment?

Since the mid-1990s, there has been a progressive decline in prostate cancer (PCa) mortality, attributed primarily to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening. Despite the 40% decline in PCa mortality, the urology community has been indicted for overscreening, overdetecting, and overtreating PCa. In 2012, theUSPreventative Service Task Force (USPSTF) concluded that the harms of PCa screening outweighed its benefits for allmen and recommended against PSA screening [1]. It is incomprehensible that PSA screening should be summarily abandoned; however, it is imperative that the urology community reassess the paradigm of subjecting all men with ‘‘elevated’’ PSA to a random transrectal ultrasound–guided biopsy and recommending whole-gland treatment (radical prostatectomy [RP] or radiation therapy [RT]) independent of disease aggressiveness. In short, we need to screen and diagnose ‘‘smarter,’’ so we can treat smarter. I have adopted multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) [2] and the 4Kscore [3] to decrease unnecessary biopsies due to the poor specificity of PSA screening. I have also adopted MRI/ultrasound-fusion targeted biopsy to decrease overdetection of low-risk disease and underdetection of aggressive disease attributable to random biopsy [4]. The next challenge is to treat smarter. In this month’s issue of European Urology, Chin et al [5] presented results of a prospective phase 1 clinical trial of MRI-guided transurethral ultrasound ablation (MRI-TULSA) of prostate tissue in men with localized PCa. The question is whether whole-gland MRI-TULSA will allow urologists to treat smarter. The application of high-intensity focused
Resolvins on the way to resolution.

![Figure][1] Insight from Peter Ward Over the past several decades, lipid products have been found to exert both proinflammatory effects (e.g., prostaglandins and leukotrienes) and antiinflammatory activities (e.g., lipoxins and products derived from docosahexaenoic acid, including
Flapping Wing Deformation Measurement in Hover Flight Conditions

Deformation during the flapping cycle can be used as a determinant of hover-mode performance. The wing used here is a small hummingbird sized wing constructed from carbon fiber and machined acetal plastic. Digital image correlation measurements while the wing was flapped at 25 Hz is compared with aerodynamic thrust performance to reveal characteristics that might translate to favorable or poor wing performance. This is aimed to provide flapping micro air vehicle designers with knowledge of how to tailor their wings for desired aerodynamic performance. Three different wing designs were tested; all of which were the same planform area and tested using a single active degree of freedom flapping mechanism. Tip deflection and twist angle at 50 % and 75 % are extracted from the full-field deformation and used as metrics. The twist measurements showed advanced rotation in all the wings tested, though to different extents. The wing which had the most advanced rotation was also found to have produced the most thrust at 25 Hz, while the wing with the least tip deflection and was most efficient. This suggests that the larger tip deflection seen with the other wings may be detrimental to the efficiency of the wing.
Structural, Electronic, and Transport Properties of Silicane Nanoribbons

Silicane ribbons do not suffer from aromatic dependence of the band gap making them a more promising candidate for near-term nanoelectronic application compared to armchair graphene nanoribbons. The structural, electronic, and transport properties of free-standing $s{p}^{3}$-hybridized armchair- and zigzag-edge silicane nanoribbons have been investigated using ab initio and nonlocal empirical pseudopotential calculations. Under ambient conditions, two-dimensional silicane sheets will spontaneously break into stable one-dimensional ribbons similar to density functional theory studies of graphene ribbons. The calculated low-field electron mobility and ballistic conductance show a strong edge dependence, due to differences in the effective mass and momentum relaxation rates along the two transport directions. The mobility in zigzag-edge ribbons is found to be approximately twenty times higher than in armchair-edge ribbons.
Severe neonatal anemia due to massive transplacental hemorrhage.

Anemia in the newborn is usually of the hemolytic type and is the result of destruction of fetal blood cells by incompatible maternal antibodies. Occasionally, a neonate presents with anemia on the basis of a ruptured abdominal visceral organ. There is a small group of infants with posthemorrhagic anemia caused by overt external bleeding at or during the time of delivery after obstetric complications such as tearing of umbilical vessels, placenta praevia, or abruptio placentae. There remains, however, an occasional infant with profound anemia where no immunologic incompatibility exists, where no abnormal obstetrical bleeding occurs, and where the placenta at delivery is grossly normal. Wiener has explained the last situation by a mechanism of occult hemorrhage of the fetal blood into the maternal circulation by a transplacental route. Furthermore, he postulated that ruptured placental blood vessels in the fetal surfaces permitted entrance of the infant's blood into the maternal blood stream. Since his observation, other authors • 5 • • have described this mechanism as playing the causal role in the pathogenesis of transplacental hemorrhage. Chown, in his reported cases, confirmed Wiener's hypothesis by demonstrating the presence of fetal cells in the mother's blood. It is our purpose in this paper to describe a case of proved intrauterine transplacental hemorrhage which produced severe anemia in a newborn infant.
Investigating Facility Anomalies at AEDC

fforts are ongoing at the Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC) to revitalize the technical excellence of the workforce. Those efforts include not only enhancing the skills, tools, and knowledge of individual personnel, but also ensuring that these skills are successfully combined to provide the most effective test and evaluation capability. One approach to achieve this goal has been the re-establishment of a focused facility analysis capability to provide technical expertise and tools for integrated facility systems analysis. The Facility Systems Analysis Team (FSAT) provides support for investigation of anomalous facility operations events (facility forensics) and current test activities, as well as long-term facility operations and enhancements at AEDC. The Team can provide rapid response to facility operational issues requiring the application of a broad range of analysis expertise and tools which must be coordinated to ensure the best solution. This paper describes the lessons learned which led to the re-establishment of the facility systems analysis capability, discusses the implementation approach used, and provides examples of recent support results.
The Relative Roles of Brand Beliefs and Attitude toward the ad as Mediators of Brand Attitude: A Second Look:

A modal finding in prior research has been that attitude toward the advertisement (AAd) outperforms brand beliefs in explaining brand attitude. The author shows that when beliefs are covered more c...
Seasonal History of the European Corn Borer at Florence, South Carolina

Seasonal history studies of Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner) at Florence, S. C. in 1967–68 revealed 4 generations per year. Adult emergence began in April of both years. Oviposition of 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-generation egg masses was heaviest on March-, April-, and May-planted corn respectively, with 4th-generation egg masses being observed primarily on Panicum sp. The percentages of larvae diapausing in field cages were 0.9, 54.3, and 100.0 for generations 1–3 in 1967 and 1.1, 18.9, 90.5, and 100.0 for generations 1–4 in 1968.
Audio File: Sinfonia

Sinfonia is a ten-minute work for small orchestra commissioned by the Pro Arte Orchestra. First performed at Sanders in 1984 under the direction of David Hoose. It is a single movement work in three distinct sections.
The standardization and information technology study of the oncomelania snails determination

Objective To explore direction of the innovation and improvement of the oncomelania snail determination, and the innovation and standardization of the snail survey equipment and the working procedure, and innovation of data presentation. Methods According to the national standard specification for oncomelania snails survey, expert consultation and field observation, combining with the information equipment such as a professional toolbox, handheld GPS units and Google Earth were used to achieve the innovation and standardization of the survey. Results The information technology equipment was prepared and put in a special toolbox. Handheld GPS was used to orientate and gather the surrounding photographs during the survey. Imported / exported data of GPS in batch(not inputed / exported one by one) and presented data of the snail survey in an innovative way. Conclusion This study makes the task of snail survey clearer, the location more accurate, the snail survey more repeatable, the data process more efficient, the snail distribution more directed, and lay a reliable basis for monitoring and early warning of snail status.