cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Conformation of 2′-0-methyl cytidine, a modified furanose component of ribonucleic acids

Abstract The crystal structure of an orthorhombic form of 2′-0-methyl cytidine was determined from three dimensional X-ray diffraction data. The two molecules in each asymmetric unit have C2- endo C3- exo puckered furanose rings. This differs from the C3- endo puckering observed for cytidine (1) and it may have some relevance to the kinks that appear at the two 2′-0-methylated nucleotides in the anticodon phosphate ester backbone of the phe tRNA structure (2). This work and other studies (3,4) show that the presence of a 2′-0-methyl group does not prevent the furanose moiety from adopting its most commonly observed configurations. 2′-0-methyl nucleotides make up a small percentage of the residues in HnRNA, rRNA, tRNA and mRNA and therefore their conformational nuances are of interest.
Electrophoretic transport equations: Electrophoretic models based on migration only and their interrelationships

The general equations which describe the electrophoretic transport of components in solution are restated using Newman's general concept of mobilities. A concise derivation of the moving boundary equation and the regulating function from the continuity equation is presented. Various other regulating principles across moving and stationary boundaries are also discussed, which permits a review of the features and interrelationships of the electrophoretic models based on electromigration only. The effect of considering an interactive (dissociating) solvent on the mathematical treatment is discussed.
Word learning in the absence of a speaker

Past studies show that a referential context is important for successful word learning. Still in question, however, is the success of word learning in the absence of a referential context. In this study 2-year-olds were presented with novel words in the absence of a speaker and therefore in the absence of a referential context. Findings revealed that word learning was successful across the experimental trials at rates greater than chance and at rates greater than in the control trial. Findings demonstrated that the absence of a speaker and the referential context provided by a speaker did not result in unsuccessful word learning. It is concluded that a referential context is not necessary for successful word learning.
Origins of seawater intrusion in a coastal aquifer — A case study of the Pajaro Valley, California

Abstract Seawater may enter and contaminate stratified coastal aquifers through a number of different pathways. These pathways and their relative contribution are examined in the Pajaro Valley, California, a coastal area with extensive groundwater development. This study considers three pathways of possible intrusion of the primary confined aquifer: (1) onshore leakage from brackish sources, the estuary and sloughs, through the confining layer; (2) near-shore leakage from the ocean through the confining layer; and (3) offshore flow from the ocean through the submarine canyon outcrop of the aquifer. Groundwater flow and seawater intrusion are simulated using an areal, two-dimensional solute-transport computer model. This analysis indicates that leakage through confining layers is the principal mechanism of recharge to the aquifer. Although lateral flow through the offshore outcrop contaminates the aquifer, as a whole , at a higher rate, vertical leakage through the sea floor initially is the main pathway of seawater intrusion to the onshore portion of the aquifer. It is likely that leakage generally is the dominant mechanism of recharge and initial cause of seawater intrusion for poorly-confined, stratified coastal aquifers. This analysis suggests that a significant time interval follows the initial observation of seawater intrusion, during which remedial action can be taken to control lateral flow through the offshore outcrop, which ultimately will be the largest component of future intrusion in these aquifers.
Three Elements of Stakeholder Legitimacy

This paper focuses attention on the stakeholder attribute of legitimacy. Drawing upon institutional and stakeholder theories, I develop a framework of stakeholder legitimacy based on its three aspects—legitimacy of the stakeholder as an entity, legitimacy of the stakeholder’s claim, and legitimacy of the stakeholder’s behavior. I assume that stakeholder legitimacy is socially constructed by management and that each of its three aspects exists in degree in the manager’s perception. I discuss how these aspects interact and change over time, and propose an agenda for future research on stakeholder legitimacy.
A Comparison of Empirical Differential Option Weighting Scoring Procedures as a Function of Inter-Item Correlation.

This study compared the reliabilities yielded by several differential option weighting scoring procedures among themselves as well as against conventional testing. It was found that increases in reliability due to differential option weighting were a function of inter-item correlations. Suggestions for the implementation of differential option weighting were offered.
Magnetic flux rope ejection: observation at and comparison with recent models

Abstract With one example of a coronal mass ejection observed with SOHO/EIT and LASCO we demonstrate the main characteristic of this kind of event: its flux rope nature. These events are commonly responsible for magnetic clouds approaching the Earth. Near the solar surface, the different structures expected during the ejection of a flux rope are observed: post flare loops located under the flux rope, a prominence lying at its lower part, a coronal void located at its upper part. Two additional structures are observed in coronal emission: a bright loop possibly located at the leading edge of the flux rope and a bright front located near the equator and moving along the solar limb. These structures may correspond to the compression of material while the flux rope expands. Finally, the deviation of these structures toward the equator is observed, providing the possible explanation of the discrepancy of the location of the activity in the low corona and in the high corona during the minimum of solar cycle activity.
Abstract A75: Circulating tumor cells in human breast cancer exhibit dynamic changes in epithelial and mesenchymal composition

Epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been postulated to contribute to the dissemination of cancer cells, but supporting histopathological evidence is limited. We used a microfluidic device to isolate circulating tumor cells (CTCs), combined with multiplex RNA-in-situ hybridization (ISH) and RNA sequencing, to quantify and characterize EMT in breast CTCs. Whereas only rare cells in the primary tumor expressed both mesenchymal and epithelial markers, such biphenotypic as well as purely mesenchymal cells were enriched among CTCs, across all histological subtypes of breast cancer. Analysis of treatment responses in 10 patients suggested an association of mesenchymal CTCs with disease progression. In an index patient followed longitudinally, fluctuation in epithelial and mesenchymal states was observed as a function of initial response and subsequent resistance to therapy. Mesenchymal markers were predominant in clusters of tumor cells, many of which had adherent platelets. Finally, RNA sequencing of CTC clusters identified EMT-related signatures, including FOXC1, a known transcriptional regulator of EMT. Together, these data support a role for EMT in the blood-borne dissemination of breast cancer and point to the dynamic nature of this cell fate change. Citation Format: Min Yu, Aditya Bardia, Ben Wittner, Shannon Stott, Malgorzata Smas, David Ting, Steven Isakoff, Jordan Ciciliano, Marissa Wells, Ajay Shah, Kyle Concannon, Maria Donaldson, Lecia Sequist, Elena Brachtel, Dennis Sgroi, Jose Baselga, Sridhar Ramaswamy, Mehmet Toner, Daniel Haber, Shyamala Maheswaran. Circulating tumor cells in human breast cancer exhibit dynamic changes in epithelial and mesenchymal composition. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Invasion and Metastasis; Jan 20-23, 2013; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(3 Suppl):Abstract nr A75.
Evaluating the “keep-or-drop” decision

Determining the relevant costs for short-term decision-making is an important part of every cost/managerial accounting textbook. One of the decisions is the “keep or drop” decision—i.e., should a company keep or drop an existing product line or department in the short term? This article points out that keep-or-drop decisions are usually long-term decisions. As a result, it suggests that only a segmented activity-based costing (ABC) income statement should be used for determining if a product line or department should be kept or dropped. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asymmetric tax multipliers

Abstract Using recently published tax series by Romer and Romer (2010) and Cloyne (2013) we examine whether or not positive and negative tax shocks have asymmetric effects on the U.S. and U.K. economies. We find that in the U.S. positive tax shocks—tax increases—do not affect output while negative tax shocks—tax cuts—have large, positive effects. In the U.K., tax increases substantially reduce output while tax cuts have no significant effect.
Irreversibility of solvent swelling of bituminous coals

Abstract Solvent-induced swelling has been used to characterize the macromolecular nature of bituminous coal. It is necessary to prove the reversibility of coal swelling in order to apply the statistical theory of rubber elasticity. Although such reversibility has been reported, there is little reliable evidence for it. The conventional procedure of volumetric swelling was used to investigate the reversibility of coal swelling. Irreversibility of solvent swelling was observed. Two different ranks of coal showed distinctly different irreversibility which was consistent with the results of solvent extractability.
Safety and cost-efficiency of 24-hour hospitalization for carotid endarterectomy.

The safety and cost savings of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) were determined with guidelines developed after vascular “critical pathways” were implemented. Using these guidelines, our goal was to admit patients the day of surgery and to discharge them the next morning. Morbidity, mortality, readmission rates, same-day admissions, duration of stay, and hospital costs were compared between patients undergoing CEA who were electively admitted between September 1, 1992 and August 31, 1993 (group 1) and January 1, 1994 and March 31, 1995 (group 2). Between these two time periods, vascular critical pathways were instituted and all preoperative examinations were performed on an outpatient basis. The majority of CEAs were performed with the patient under general anesthesia. We found no significant differences between group 2 (n=68) vs. group 1 (n=40) in terms of mortality (1.5% [1 of 68] vs. 2.5% [1 of 40]), cardiac events (2.9% [2 of 68] vs. 2.5% [1 of 40]), neurologic events (2.9% [2 of 68] vs. 2.5% [1 of 40]), or readmission rate (1.5% [1 of 68] vs. 0% [0 of 40]). Same-day admissions were significantly higher (94% [64 of 68] vs. 5% [2 of 40];p < 0.0001), and average duration of stay was significantly lower (1.3 vs. 5.1 days;p < 0.0001) in group 2 vs. group 1, respectively. Hospital charges were decreased by $5510 per patient in group 2. We conclude that hospital costs can be significantly reduced for most patients undergoing CEA when they are admitted on the day of surgery and discharged the following morning, with no negative impact on morbidity and mortality.
Swollen Poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) as a Template for Inorganic Morphologies

We report a series of silica, titania, and zirconia microstructures synthesized within swollen poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). Voids created by solvent-swelling the polymer are used to template the product. The inorganic morphologies range from spheres to networks, depending upon the nature of the polymer, its degree of swelling, and the synthetic conditions. Organic solvents as well as pure metal alkoxide liquids have been used to swell the polymer. Once the alkoxide precursor is inside the swollen polymer, water is introduced to bring about hydrolysis and condensation polymerization. The product is a textured metal oxide within a PDMS matrix. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) were used to characterize the products. Microstructures formed in this manner have potential use as an inexpensive route to catalysts, fillers, capsules, or membranes for separations.
INTERVAL VELOCITY ANALYSIS BY WAVE EXTRAPOLATION

A method for interval velocity analysis is formulated on the basis of wavefield extrapolation, i.e., on the basis of wave-equation migration. When this scheme is applied to multioffset seismic sections or to an ensemble of CMP gathers, it allows for the proper treatment of dipping events. The underlying assumptions are that local velocities should be derived from data associated with events within the interval under consideration. To minimize the effect of the region above the layer of interest, the data are first extrapolated to the top of the analysis interval. Subsequent analysis of these data then pertains to the events within this interval. Velocity estimation consists of repeated wavefield extrapolations through the analysis interval using a set of trial velocities. The optimal velocity is chosen on the basis of coherency measures designed to express the collective phase agreement among a set of offset Fourier modes. The reliability of this approach to interval velocity estimation is demonstrated on synthetic multi-offset data.
Positron annihilation techniques suited for porosity characterization of thin films

The porosity in thin (∼1 μm) mesoporous low dielectric constant (low-k) films is investigated by different beam-based positron annihilation spectroscopy (PAS) techniques. Examples are given for mesoporous methyl-silsesquioxane films deposited with a sacrificial polymer (porogen, from 0 to 90 wt % load) and subsequently annealed to drive out the volatile porogen, resulting in films with nanometer size voids. The important features of positronium (Ps; an electron−positron atom-like bound state) interaction with porous materials (formation, confinement, diffusion, thermalization, and annihilation) are highlighted. Ps was identified as an especially suitable probe for identifying open porosity, manifested by Ps escape in a vacuum. Three-photon (3γ) PAS was utilized to derive the length-scale for pore interconnectivity prior to total percolation, and open porosity fraction as a function of the porogen load. Lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) was used to obtain the pore size distribution, and the Ps energy is assesse...
Enhanced ventilation of the North Atlantic subtropical gyre thermocline during the last glaciation

THE ocean's intermediate1–6 and deep7,8 circulation are both known to have differed during the last glaciation from those of today, but little is known about the history of the subtropical gyres. Variations in gyre processes should be closely linked to variations in global climate, as gyre circulation is driven by air–sea interactions and reflects the climate at the ocean surface. The gyres are also a significant reservoir of carbon and nutrients, so that gyre processes affect the distribution of carbon and nutrients in the oceans and thus atmospheric CO2. Here we use measurements of δ13C and δ18O in foraminifera from the Bahamas to produce a detailed reconstruction of nutrient and temperature profiles in the thermocline during the last glaciation. The thermocline of the glacial North Atlantic subtropical gyre lacked the oxygen minimum that is characteristic of the modern ocean, and was depleted in nutrients, indicating greater, more uniform thermocline ventilation at that time. Thus not only intermediate waters1–5 but the entire upper water column within the glacial North Atlantic was depleted of nutrients. Moreover, glacial thermocline waters were cooler, had a steeper temperature gradient and a shallower base. Both the ventilation and the thermal structure of the glacial thermocline are consistent with what is known of the glacial climate9–14.
Autoradiography applied to tracer studies in semiconductor research

Abstract The single crystal materials and processes used in semiconductor research present problems unique to them as opposed to metals and their alloys. Autoradiography has at times been the only technique by which these problems could be investigated. The types of films, their speed and resolution and the nonconventional use of dental X-ray film used in these studies are described. The techniques and some specific applications of autoradiography to semiconductor research problems are presented.
Depreciation, Maintenance, and Housing Prices

Abstract This paper investigates the effect of homeowner maintenance and improvements on the depreciation rate for housing and on house price indexes. We examine three specifications of a hedonic house price model: one that includes a variable for age, as a proxy for depreciation, and an age–maintenance interaction variable; one that considers depreciation but ignores maintenance; and one that ignores both depreciation and maintenance. The remarks of the listing agent as to the property's condition is our proxy for the level of maintenance characterizing the home. In our sample, we find that poorly maintained homes depreciate at a much faster rate than do homes with average maintenance, and that well-maintained homes depreciate somewhat more slowly. Omitting maintenance from the variable specification has little impact on hedonic house price indexes constructed with our data, but failing to consider dwelling age imparts a significant and growing downward bias to the indexes. Monte Carlo simulations investigating various data specifications support our empirical findings.
Computerized interactive model approach to electrical distribution system planning

Abstract The results are described of a research effort to apply the latest technology to the problem of energy distribution-system planning. The interactive computerized model used promises to be a valuable means of analysing and planning for future distribution systems.
Porcelain adherence to dental cast CP titanium: effects of surface modifications.

OBJECTIVES: A reaction layer forms on cast titanium surfaces due to the reaction of the molten titanium with the investment material. Such a layer prevents strong adhesion between titanium and porcelain. This study characterized the effects of surface modifications on cast titanium surfaces and titanium-ceramic adhesion. METHODS: ASTM grade II CP titanium was cast into an MgO-based mold. Castings were devested by sandblasting with alumina particles, and subjected to surface modification by immersion in one of the following solutions: (1) 35% HNO3-5% HF at room temperature for 1min; (2) 50% NaOH-10% CuSO4 x 5H2O at 105 degreesC for 10min; (3) the NaOH-CuSO4 solution followed by the HNO3-HF solution; (4) 50% NaOH-10% NaSO4 at 105 degreesC for 10 min; (5) the NaOH-NaSO4 solution followed by the HNO3-HF solution; and (6) 50% NaOH solution at 105 degreesC for 10min. Surfaces only sandblasted with alumina were used as controls. Specimen surfaces were characterized by XRD and SEM/EDS, and hardness-depth profiles were determined. All specimens were sandblasted with 110 microm alumina particles before porcelain firing. An ultra-low-fusing porcelain (Vita Titankeramik) was fused on the titanium surfaces. The titanium-ceramic adhesion was characterized by a biaxial flexure test, and area fraction of adherent porcelain (AFAP) was determined by X-ray spectroscopy. RESULTS: EDS analyses revealed a substantial amount (13-17 wt%) of Al on the control, and specimens modified with Methods 2, 4, and 6. XRD revealed residual stress in the titanium surfaces and corundum on the control, and Methods 2, 4, and 6 specimens. A new Ti(Cu, Al)2 phase was identified on the titanium surfaces modified by immersion in 50% NaOH-10% CuSO4 x 5H2O aqueous solution. Reduced residual stress was observed on Method 1, 3, and 5 specimens. No corundum peaks were detected on these specimens. Compared to the control, significantly lower (P < 0.05) hardness values were found for Methods 1-3 and Method 5 specimens at 20 microm below the surfaces and for Method 1-5 specimens at 50 microm below the surfaces. Significantly higher (P < 0.05) AFAP values were found for surfaces modified with Methods 2-6 compared to the control and Method 1, and no significant differences were found among Methods 1-6, and between control and Method 1. SIGNIFICANCE: Based on the results from the present study, porcelain adherence to cast CP titanium can be improved by the caustic baths used in the study.
Analytical strategies for LC–MS-based targeted metabolomics ☆

Recent advances in mass spectrometry are enabling improved analysis of endogenous metabolites. Here we discuss several issues relevant to developing liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry methods for targeted metabolomics (i.e., quantitative analysis of dozens to hundreds of specific metabolites). Sample preparation and liquid chromatography approaches are discussed, with an eye towards the challenge of dealing with a diversity of metabolite classes in parallel. Evidence is presented that heated electrospray ionization (ESI) generally gives improved signal compared to the more traditional unheated ESI. Applicability to targeted metabolomics of triple quadrupole mass spectrometry operating in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode and high mass resolution full scan mass spectrometry (e.g., time-of-flight, Orbitrap) are described. We suggest that both are viable solutions, with MRM preferred when targeting a more limited number of analytes, and full scan preferred for its potential ability to bridge targeted and untargeted metabolomics.
Technological dependence in the Andean group

In the metalworking and chemical industries of Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia, the ownership structure of firms, their product sector, and propensity to obtain technology through licensing are closely associated. Foreign firms cluster in industrial sectors with complex and volatile technologies, in which their technological advantages permit the exaction of monopoly rents. Ownership structure and product sector, as well as firm size, are related to the firm's decision to obtain technology by licensing rather than by generating it autonomously or obtaining it through other means. Ownership structure, product sector, and licensing appear to interact with choice of machinery imports and research and development activities in such a way as to produce a “technological dependence syndrome” in which opportunities for “learning by doing” are consistently missed.
A methodology for rapid estimation of substrate-coupled switching noise

In this paper we present a methodology for rapid estimation of substrate coupled switching noise in mixed-signal chips. This methodology differs from existing approaches in that it does not require full chip, SPICE level transient or frequency domain simulations or long user-specified test vectors at the chip I/O. Instead, it relies on power dissipation data available from system-level power estimators and determines an estimate of the substrate coupled switching noise profile on the chip-substrate. This method trades off the accuracy available in existing approaches for improved execution times and significantly simpler user-inputs. Thus, this methodology is useful when rough estimates of substrate coupled switching-noise are adequate, for example, during manual or automatic system-level mixed-signal floorplanning.
Particle-localized AC and DC manipulation and electrokinetics

Colloidal particles suspended in water respond to direct (DC) or alternating current (AC) fields in a variety of ways, including directional motion along or across the field direction, field-gradient dependent response and induced particle–particle interaction. We review here some of these effects and their applications in new techniques for particle manipulation and assembly, making of novel biomaterials and designing of new self-propelling microdevices. The coupling of the counterionic layer mobility, fluid flows and the resulting particle motion are the basis not only of the classic electrophoretic effects, but also of the recent developments in AC electrohydrodynamics and induced charge electrophoresis of asymmetric particles. We also discuss how dielectrophoresis (particle interaction with external AC field gradients), could be used to manipulate and assemble objects on any size scale. We discuss the interactions leading to the assembly of such structures, ways to simulate the dynamics of the process and the effect of particle size and conductivity on the type of structure obtained. Finally, we demonstrate how an additional level of complexity can be engineered to turn miniature semiconductor diodes into prototypes of self-propelling micromachines and micropumps. The diodes suspended in water propel themselves electro-osmotically when a uniform alternating electric field is applied across the container. Semiconductor diodes embedded in channel walls could serve as distributed microfluidic pumps and mixers powered by a global external field.
After the Revolution in Corporate Law

Corporate law is a field that underwent as thorough a revolution in the 1980s as can be imagined, in scholarship and practice, methodological and organizational, in which finance and the economic theory of the firm were used to inform the field. The timing of this revolution was not a fortuitous occurrence: it followed a revolution in corporate finance and the theory of the firm, and was mid-wived in a period of dynamic innovation in corporate transactions. The transformation in corporate law scholarship and practice accomplished by this revolution, has important implications for legal education in the 21st century. There is a need for greater integration of law school and management school curriculums, to ensure that law school graduates will obtain the technical proficiency necessary to be at the leading edge of corporate law practice and scholarship. In addition, the sea change in corporate law scholarship places law schools with larger faculties and associated with universities with strong finance groups at a competitive advantage in recruiting business law faculty and in maintaining a first rate business law program. Corporate law centers have emerged as an institutional device for smaller elite schools to adapt to this new environment.
Caco-2 Cell Ferritin Formation Predicts Nonradiolabeled Food Iron Availability in an In Vitro Digestion/Caco-2 Cell Culture Model

We have adapted an in vitro digestion/Caco-2 cell model to assess Fe availability from foods, by using ferritin formation by Caco-2 cells as an indicator of Fe uptake. Ferritin formation by Caco-2 cells occurs in response to Fe uptake at concentrations of available Fe greater than that of the culture media to which the cells have been adapted. This methodology circumvents the need for using radioactive Fe and thus eliminates the costs and controversies associated with food radiolabeling. To validate this method, we measured ferritin formation in Caco-2 cells exposed to digests containing Fe of relatively high and low availability. Our objective was to determine if ferritin formation would be proportional to Fe uptake and sufficiently sensitive to be an indicator of Fe availability from food digests. Our model uses established in vitro digestion techniques coupled with uptake of Fe by Caco-2 cell monolayers. Measurement of cell ferritin was done by a commercially available RIA. Higher ferritin formation was observed in cells exposed to digests containing FeSO 4 plus ascorbic acid vs, digests containing FeSO 4 plus citric acid. Additional comparisons of Fe availability from digests of beef, fish, corn and green beans yielded results that demonstrate higher Fe availability (i.e., greater ferritin formation) from beef and fish digests than from digests of corn and green beans. Overall, the results document the promotional effects of ascorbic acid and animal tissue on Fe uptake as measured indirectly by ferritin formation. The results of this study indicate that ferritin formation by Caco-2 cell monolayers is highly sensitive and accurately measures food Fe availability in this in vitro system.
Distributed active transformer-a new power-combining and impedance-transformation technique

In this paper, we compare the performance of the newly introduced distributed active transformer (DAT) structure to that of conventional on-chip impedance-transformations methods. Their fundamental power-efficiency limitations in the design of high-power fully integrated amplifiers in standard silicon process technologies are analyzed. The DAT is demonstrated to be an efficient impedance-transformation and power-combining method, which combines several low-voltage push-pull amplifiers in series by magnetic coupling. To demonstrate the validity of the new concept, a 2.4-GHz 1.9-W 2-V fully integrated power-amplifier achieving a power-added efficiency of 41% with 50-/spl Omega/ input and output matching has been fabricated using 0.35-/spl mu/m CMOS transistors.
Quality of Service of Grid Computing: Resource Sharing

Rapid advancement of communication technology has changed the landscape of computing. New models of computing, such as business-on-demand, Web services, peer-to-peer networks, and grid computing have emerged to harness distributed computing and network resources to provide powerful services. The non-deterministic characteristic of the resource availability in these new computing platforms raises an outstanding challenge: how to support quality of service (QoS) to meet a user's demand? In this study, we conduct a thorough study of QoS of distributed computing, especially on grid computing where the requirement of distributed sharing and coordination goes to the extreme. We start at QoS policies, and then focus on technical issues of the enforcement of the policies and performance optimization under each policy. This study provides a classification of existing software system based on their underlying policies, a systematic understanding of QoS, and a framework for QoS of grid computing.
Use of heat-pressed leucite reinforced porcelain in “difficult” veneer cases: A clinical report

Abstract Two clinical situations are presented where a heat-pressed leucite reinforced ceramic veneer system was used. For these situations the system was advantageous when veneers (1) required bulk or variable thicknesses or (2) were under load from function and parafunctional activity. This porcelain veneer system addressed some of the concerns associated with standard feldspathic porcelain and cast-glass systems. Practitioners should consider its use for situations that require a stronger veneer material.
Thermal Decomposition of 1,3-Dimethyl Derivative of Phénobarbital in Trimethyianilinium Hydroxide

Extensive degradation of the 1,3-dimethyl derivative of phenobarbital occurs when it is injected with trimethyianilinium hydroxide in methanol into a gas chromatograph. The application of mass spectrometry demonstrated that the major products are N-methyl-2- phenylbutyramide, N,N-dimethyl-2-phenylbutyramide, methyl 2- phenylbutyrate, N,N,N′-trimethylethylphenylmalondiamide, and N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylphenylmalondiamide. The methyl group of the ester arises from the methanol solvent, whereas the methyl groups of the substituted amides arise from the parent compound or the meth- ylating reagent. Tetramethylammonium hydroxide causes much more degradation than trimethyianilinium hydroxide under comparable conditions.
Optimization of Dynamic Neural Network Performance for Short-Term Traffic Prediction:

An approach is presented for optimizing short-term traffic-prediction performance by using multiple topologies of dynamic neural networks and various network-related and traffic-related settings. The conducted study emphasized the potential benefit of optimizing the prediction performance by deploying multimodel approaches under parameters and traffic-condition settings. Emphasis was placed on the application of temporal-processing topologies in short-term speed predictions in the range of 5-min to 20-min horizons. Three network topologies were used: Jordan-Elman networks, partially recurrent networks, and time-lagged feedforward networks. The input patterns were constructed from data collected at the target location and at upstream and downstream locations. However, various combinations were also considered. To encourage the networks to associate with historical information on recurrent conditions, a time factor was attached to the input patterns to introduce time-recognition capabilities, in addition to information encoded in the recent past data. The optimal prediction settings (type of topology and input settings) were determined so that performance was maximized under different traffic conditions at the target and adjacent locations. The optimized performance of the dynamic neural networks was compared to that of a statistical nonlinear time series approach, which was outperformed in most cases. The study showed that no single topology consistently outperformed the others for all prediction horizons considered. However, the results showed that the significance of introducing the time factor was more pronounced under longer prediction horizons. A comparative evaluation of performance of optimal and nonoptimal settings showed substantial improvement in most cases. The applied procedure can also be used to identify the prediction reliability of information-dissemination systems.
Differential expression of two distinct MyoD genes in Xenopus.

We previously reported the isolation of several complementary DNAs from Xenopus Iaevis that encode distinct MyoD proteins. Two of these genes, XImfl and X1mf25, appear to represent a gene duplication as a consequence of the polyploid Xenopus genome. Although both MyoD genes are expressed exclusively in skeletal muscle in adult animals, they have very different temporal patterns of expression in early development. In the present work, we show that XImfl transcripts rapidly accumulated to high levels shortly after activation of the zygotic genome at the midblastula transition. In contrast, X1mf25 was expressed as a maternal transcript that was maintained at a relatively constant level throughout early development. X1mf25, like XImfl, was capable of
Physical preconditioning for modeling 2D large periodic arrays

We investigate diffraction effects on truncated periodic structures at the field operator level. A physically based approximate operator inverse of the electric field integral equation (EFIE) is used either to obtain an accurate first estimate of element currents, or as a preconditioner for a more rigorous, iterative solution. To illustrate, we analyze linear arrays of cylindrical elements constituting antennas or periodic structures with arbitrary element geometry and excitation, though the method can be extended to 3D problems. We show the reduction in the matrix solution time that is achieved, and also discuss the physical insight into array truncation effects that the method provides. The MoM matrix and preconditioner, once constructed for a given array, are excitation independent and may be used repeatedly to obtain or analyze element current distributions, element tapering and scanning effects, element input impedances, active input impedances, element-failure impact on the radiating system, or coupling between element pairs in a finite array.
A Roadmap for Technology Literacy and a Vehicle for Getting There: Educational Robotics and the TeRK Project

Current technology literacy trends in the United States show declining interest and engagement in technological fields of study. We propose a roadmap by which robotics applications can enliven technology education and capture the interest of new students. We also describe our current efforts to design appropriate technologies and apply them at the middle school, high school, and college levels.
Radioimmunoassay of human thyrotropin: analytical and clinical developments.

Recent modifications of the radioimmunoassay systems for TSH have greatly extended the clinical utility of the measurement of this hormone, so that its use is no longer limited to the diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism. The newer assays provide improved sensitivity and specificity, such that it is now possible to distinguish TSH levels that are within the normal range from those that are suppressed, e.g., in thyrotoxicosis. New vistas of clinical applications are being revealed as we improve our understanding of human thyroid physiology and pathophysiology. It is the purpose of this communication to summarize information about the improved TSH radioimmunoassay, to demonstrate the new observations available regarding TSH concentrations in various normal and diseased conditions, and finally, to illustrate the various ways in which the assay provides more accurate guidance in the clinical diagnosis and management of thyroid and nonthyroid disease.
Democracy, Accountability, and Coalition Bargaining

This paper begins by identifying a framework in which we can study democratic representation and accountability, namely the neo-institutional rational choice literature on delegation and agency. I suggest why I believe that the enforcement of accountability is becoming a more and more central democratic issue. I then go on to share some data from Norwegian election surveys that indicate that voters, at least in this country, are increasingly available to play the part that democratic accountability requires. Finally, I present evidence that political leaders in coalition bargaining anticipate and are constrained by this electoral accountability, sometimes with surprising results. There is even a silver lining to this part of my story, in the sense that coalition outcomes that may at first sight seem deviant or even pathological, may in fact play a perfectly normal part in the democratic process.
The Neuromuscular Junction

It is a nerve bundle or nerve trunk that conveys excitatory impulses from the central nervous system to a target muscle. Each nerve fiber is normally myelinated, but at its terminal end it becomes unmyelinated. Also at the end the nerve fiber branches and each branch contacts a single (specific) muscle fiber within the whole muscle.
Interactions of Gold Nanoparticles with DNA: Interplay of Sequence, Ligands Charge and Polarity

DNA template can trigger the self-assembly of metal or semiconductor nanoparticles into programmable molecular architectures. The performance of DNA-nanoparticle system strongly depends on the size and ligand chemistry of nanoparticles. We performed molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the effect of colloidal gold nanoparticle (GNP) ligands charge and polarity on the ability to bind DNA molecules. We tailored the surface of GNP by introducing different terminal functionality to thiolated ligands, such as hydrophobic, polar and charged groups. We found that uncharged GNPs and GNPs with cationic ligand charge density of less than 10% can only bind to the minor groove of DNA. Whereas GNPs with ligands charge density of higher than 10% can bind to major or minor groove. Binding to major groove result in significant distortion and wrapping of DNA around the GNP. The distortions of the DNA helical structure strongly depends on the ligand charge density. Also at higher nanoparticle concentration and low charge densities, the ligand hydrophobicity can disrupt the hydrogen bonding between base pairs of DNA strands and leads to unwinding of DNA helix. We observed that by tuning the cationic charge density and polarity of GNP we can control the binding modes and DNA structural modifications.
Evolving engineering education for social innovation and humanitarian impact — Lessons learned across a range of models

Engineering and science education is on a trajectory in which core domain knowledge is complemented by the economic and human dimensions of technology. Adding these dimensions can attract a broader range of students to technical careers while also producing more socially conscious innovators. There is growing interest in learning models that can combine technology and community engagement for exposing students to economic and human impacts. This paper outlines lessons learned from two different institutions with programs giving students deep experiences in community-based, technical design projects across both domestic and international environments. One program has grown within a large established university for almost two decades with an emphasis on engineering applied towards community-based design, and has scaled to over 20 universities. The other program emphasizes global collaboration and has been running for five years at a small, private engineering college with a focus on the intersection of engineering, entrepreneurship and society. Highlighting common elements of the two programs gives insights into how to introduce and sustain such education models. We present the lessons learned in critical areas such as curriculum and credit, institutional context, community partnering, faculty development, student preparation and assessment, development processes, project selection, project operations, team organization, advisor roles, and mentoring.
The Usefulness of Industry Segment Information

This paper identifies segment characteristics that made industry segment reporting more useful in equity valuation. Those characteristics are the difference in segments' growth potential, the relative size of segments, and the magnitude of correlation in segment earnings. Usefulness is measured by examining the percentage increase in R2 and the incremental coefficient of earnings in regressions of stock returns on disaggregate segment earnings relative to aggregate earnings.
The preparation and purification of monoglycerides

Mono- and diglycerides were produced by reacting the following oils with glycerol: coconut, peanut, sesame, linseed, and sardine. It was shown that the yield of monoglyceride was not dependent upon the fatty acid composition of the oil but on the solubility of glycerol in oil, which is dependent in part on the temperature. An excess of glycerol above that which is soluble does not change the composition of the reaction product. At 180°C, no more than 45% monoglycerides can be formed by glycerolysis.
Data Analysis of Periodic Unsteady Pressure Signals from an Airfoil Cascade

Flutter is a major concern in the development of gas-turbine engines and can be difcult to predict. Repetitive test/redesign methods can be expensive and time consuming. Computational methods would be the most efcient way of predicting utter , however these methods must be built upon controlled experimentation to verify the mathematical assumptions. The analysis of the time-dependent data generated in these experiments is discussed. In particular, the spectral block averaging method is presented. This method is shown to be able to account for variations in airfoil oscillation frequency that can occur in experiments that force oscillate the airfoils to simulate utter .
The absorption of digitalis from the rectum in man

Not infrequently, patients suffering from heart failure are unable to take digitalis by mouth because of nausea, vomiting or surgical operation. The margin of safety between therapeutic and toxic dose, when a member of the digitalis group is given by vein, is sufficiently small to render this method of administration hazardous. The present study was undertaken to ascertain the feasibility of rectal digitalis therapy, concerning which only a few fragmentary reports have been recorded.Twenty-six observations were made on 20 patients with auricular fibrillation. Hourly records of heart and pulse rates were charted for 8 hours after the drug was given and at 4 hour intervals for the next 24 hours. In 19 instances, an electrocardiogram was taken just before administration and approximately every hour thereafter for 3, 4, or 5 hours. Another graphic record was made the following morning.The preparation employed was an aqueous extract of digitalis leaves furnished by Merck and Company and called by them “Digitan...
Old-Fashioned Deterrence: Why the SEC's New Policy Could Actually 'Bring the Swagger Back' to the Commission

This Paper sheds light on the potential ramifications of the new SEC enforcement policy requiring wrongdoers to admit guilt and assesses the deterrent capacity of the new policy. Overall, this Paper concludes that requiring certain wrongdoers to admit guilt is not as catastrophic for defendants or the SEC as some critics suggest. It further argues that the potential for deterring violations of the federal securities laws is great enough to support the SEC’s new policy.
The Connotation and Cultivation of the Core Capability of Higher Vocational Students Who Major in Finance and Economy

Different from professional specialty,the professional core capability is more general in character,yet it is varied from one specialty to another.However the current educational mode makes no distinctions between them.As a result,the students of the same major in different schools have less special features in terms of professional skills,and the students of different majors show little difference in terms of professional core capability,thus they can not meet the demand and choice of the market.The cultivation of professional capability should be understood in both long and short term perspectives,and be estimated by both standards of professional specialty and professional core capacity.The professional specialty should be concentrated on in specialized courses,while the professional core capability may be trained in second classes.The cultivation of professional core capacity can also be promoted by optimizing the evaluation system.
51 Cases with Congenital Muscular Torticollis Treated by Manual Stretching and Massage in Fants

Objective:To evaluate the effects in the treatment of congenital muscular torticollis in fants by manual stretching and massage.Methods:51 patients with congenital muscular torticollis were from 7 days to 11 months of age.Massage and manual stretching were at the sternocleidomastoid of the affected side,about 20 minutes/time,1 time/day,totally procedure about 2-3 months.Assessment criteria: ① marked effective: clinical symptom disappeared,no mass,no muscle contraction,face were symmetry,function ability was normal;② effective: clinical sympotom almost disappeared;③improvement: clinical sympotom were realased.④no effect: clinical symptom not changed.Results:① marked effective: 35 patients;②effective : 9 patients;③ improvement: 6 patients;④no effect: 1 patient.Effective rate was 98%.Conclusion:The curative effect of massage and manual stretching in treating congenital muscular torticollis in fants is remarkable.
Measurement Issues: Assessing Adherence and Disease and Health Outcomes

It is vital to assess adherence because adherence failure is a ubiquitous problem that directly impacts the health and well-being of children. This chapter will expand on reasons why to assess adherence, as well as, what is to be assessed, who should be assessed (and who should do the assessment), and how to assess. Because there is no ideal measure of adherence, the most common methodological limitations and problems (such as measurement reactivity) will be reviewed and strategies for minimizing their impact will be offered. Medical outcomes (such as glycosylated hemoglobin levels in patients with diabetes) are often treated as indirect measures of adherence, even though they are separate phenomena with a variable and conditional relationship to adherence. Measures of disease or health-status outcomes, including quality of life measures, will be reviewed separately.