Vectors and bags are basic collection data structures, which are used frequently in programs and specifications. Reasoning about these data structures is supported by established algorithms for deciding ground satisfiability in the theories of arrays (for vectors) and multisets (for bags), respectively. Yet, these decision procedures are only able to reason about vectors and bags in isolation, ...

In traditional multiple instance learning (MIL), both positive and negative bags are required to learn a prediction function. However, a high human cost is needed to know the label of each bag—positive or negative. Only positive bags contain our focus (positive instances) while negative bags consist of noise or background (negative instances). So we do not expect to spend too much to label the ...

Polyamide 6 intercalated/exfoliated (PIE) cements are fabricated and characterized. With the reinforcing nanointerphase, the flexure strength of a PIE cement is higher than that of ordinary cements by an order of magnitude. The optimum nanointerphase content is around 10 wt.%. This technique has great potential in developing advanced precast and repair technologies. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rig...

In this study, we have examined the patterns of VOCs released from used Tedlar bags that were once used for the collection under strong source activities. In this way, we attempted to account for the possible bias associated with the repetitive use of Tedlar bags. To this end, we selected the bags that were never heated. All of these target bags were used in ambient temperature (typically at or...

The use of odor baits for surveillance and control of malaria mosquitoes requires robust dispensing tools. In this study, the residual activity of a synthetic mosquito attractant blend dispensed from nylon or low density polyethylene (LDPE) sachets was evaluated at weekly intervals for one year without re-impregnation. The potential role of bacteria in modulating the attraction of mosquitoes to...

OBJECTIVE Microwave warming of intravenous crystalloid solutions is an accepted practice in operating suites and emergency departments. These intravenous solutions are stored in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are known to be acidic. Some of this acidity may be from PVC packaging. We asked if microwave heating affected the acidity of 0.9% saline solution in 1 litre and 100 mL PVC bags. METHODS S...

Odor from pig production facilities is typically measured with olfactometry, whereby odor samples are collected in sampling bags and assessed by human panelists within 30 h. In the present study, the storage stability of odorants in two types of sampling bags that are often used for olfactometry was investigated. The bags were made of Tedlar or Nalophan. In a field experiment, humid and dried a...

Some animals have evolved the use of environmental materials as "portable armour" against natural enemies. Portable bags that bagworm larvae (Lepidoptera: Psychidae) construct using their own silk and plant parts are generally believed to play an important role as a physical barrier against natural enemies. However, no experimental studies have tested the importance of bags as portable armour a...

BACKGROUND Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plasticized with di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is commonly used for blood collection and storage. DEHP has protective effects on RBC membranes, but is also a toxin. METHODS A paired study was conducted to investigate the influence of DEHP and two alternative plasticizers, 1,2-cyclohexane-dicarboxylic acid diisononyl ester (DINCH) and n-butyryl-tri-n-hex...