cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis and improvement on IPSec anti-replay window protocol

The anti-replay sliding window is used in IPSec to resist the replay attack. However, when experiencing the severe packet reordering, IPSec anti-replay sliding window can potentially drop a lot of good but late packets, thus the end-to-end performance is dramatically degraded. In this paper, we rigorously analyze the performance of IPSec anti-replay sliding window under the different reordering models and then come up with a set of robust anti-replay window protocols. The performance and efficiency of each protocol are compared through the simulation. Also we argue that by deploying our new proposal, it is possible to dramatically reduce the overhead of IPSec and save a lot of bandwidth.
Stochastic control approach to derivative pricing and hedging in incomplete markets modeled by general Ito SDE systems: an overview and an application in FX derivatives

In a recent series of works the author has established a complete theory of simultaneous ("neutral") pricing of multiple types of (liquid) tradable financial derivative contracts under multidimensionality of risks in incomplete markets, including markets with non-hedgable interest rate risks. The non-hedgable risk premium is determined by the selection of the investor's risk aversion parameter, and characterized via an additional non-linear PDE. The derived pricing PDE system may possibly be viewed as the "ultimate" extension of the famous Black-Scholes PDE. Moreover, the hedging formula of same generality was derived as well. Both, the general pricing PDE system, and the general (most conservative) hedging formula, are derived as consequences of two (different) optimal portfolio problems, i.e., as consequences of two stochastic control problems. Furthermore, both results are derived as corollaries of the discovered formula for a matrix inverse, therefore called the "fundamental matrix of derivatives pricing and hedging". This note is a short overview of the established general theory, with an example presented as well.
Optimizing an Antenna Array for Satellite Communications

Phased arrays steer their main beam electronically rather than by mechanical means. An array that communicates with satellites must have the ability to maintain contact with the satellite from horizon to zenith. The array, in particular its tilt angle, size, frequency, transmit power, and element spacing, determines the amount of signal received from the satellite during its orbit. This paper shows how to optimize the array design for a given satellite system using a genetic algorithm.
Could Coalbed Methane Be the Death of Conservation Easements

This article describes a county's attempted termination of a perpetual conservation easement that had been conveyed to the county as a tax-deductible charitable gift. The article also describes the support for permitting such a termination only with court approval obtained in a cy pres or similar equitable judicial proceeding in which both the intent of the easement donor and the public interest and investment in the easement would be protected.
Experimental, clinical, and metabolic results of side-to-side portacaval shunt for intractable cirrhotic ascites.

BACKGROUND Intractable ascites, refractory to medical therapy, occurs in approximately 10 percent of patients with ascites from cirrhosis and is almost always fatal. Sinusoidal hypertension resulting from hepatic venous outflow obstruction plays a primary role in the pathogenesis of cirrhotic ascites and provides the rationale for decompression of the liver by side-to-side portacaval shunt in treatment of intractable ascites. This report presents the experimental basis for the use of side-to-side shunt and long-term results of a prospective study in 34 selected patients with intractable cirrhotic ascites. STUDY DESIGN In the experimental studies, hepatic venous outflow obstruction and massive ascites were produced in dogs by ligation of the hepatic veins, and the effect of portacaval shunts on ascites, thoracic duct lymph flow, and aldosterone secretion were measured. In the clinical study, 34 carefully selected patients with cirrhosis (91 percent alcoholic) and truly intractable ascites (failure of medical therapy for 5 to 24 months) underwent side-to-side portacaval shunt. The effects on ascites, survival, metabolic abnormalities, and quality of life were studied prospectively during follow-up that was longer than 5 years in all but two patients. Quantitative Child's risk classes in percent of patients were A in 0, B in 68, and C in 32. RESULTS In the experimental studies, side-to-side portacaval shunt permanently relieved severe ascites, reduced the 13-fold increase in thoracic duct lymph flow rate to almost normal, and abolished the aldosterone hypersecretory response to minimal hepatic venous outflow obstruction. End-to-side portacaval shunt was much less effective. In the clinical study, side-to-side portacaval shunt reduced mean portal vein-inferior vena cava pressure gradient from 282 mm saline to 4 mm and permanently relieved all patients of ascites without subsequent requirement of diuretic therapy. Two patients who died of hepatoma, and one who died of heart failure developed terminal ascites. Thirty-day mortality rate was 6 percent, and long-term survival rates at 5, 10, and 15 years were 75 percent, 74 percent, and 73 percent. In metabolic studies, side-to-side shunt produced marked diuresis and natriuresis and abolished hypersecretion of aldosterone. Quality of life was generally improved as a result of a low incidence of recurrent portal-systemic encephalopathy (6 percent), abstinence from alcohol in 91 percent, improvement in liver function in 81 percent, and improvement in Child's risk class. The portacaval anastomosis remained permanently patent in every patient. CONCLUSIONS Side-to-side portacaval shunt is very effective treatment of intractable ascites from cirrhosis. Our results are attributable to careful selection of patients, an organized system of care, and a program of rigorous, lifelong follow-up that emphasizes abstinence from alcohol and dietary protein restriction.
Substrate Specificity and Kinetic Properties of NADP+—Dependent Alcohol Dehydrogenase of Phycomyces Blakesleeanus

NADP+-dependent alcohol dehydrogenase (alcohol: NADP+: oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.2) was isolated from cell-free extracts of Phycomyces blakesleeanus, and the substrate specificity and kinetic properties of the enzyme were studied. Only primary alcohols were oxidized and of the aldehydes tested, only methanal (formaldehyde) was utilized as a substrate. The enzyme was inactive with NAD+ and was inhibited by pyrazole and by p-chloromercuribenzoate. The apparent Km values at pH 8.3 decreased with increasing chain length of the alcohol substrate. Ethanol had the highest value (1.98x 10M) while the value for 1-heptanol was 2.46 X 10-6M. The maximum velocities (Vmax) decreased as the chain length of the alcohols was increased. The Km value for NADP+ was 1.3 X 10-AIM.
High Channel Mobility 4H-SiC MOSFETs by Antimony Counter-Doping

Channel mobility of >100 cm 2 V -1 s -1 has been obtained on enhancement mode 4H-SiC MOSFETs using an antimony (Sb) doped surface channel in conjunction with nitric oxide (NO) postoxidation annealing. Temperature dependence of the channel mobility indicates that Sb, being an n-type dopant, reduces the surface electric field while the NO anneal reduces the interface trap density, thereby improving the channel mobility. This letter highlights the importance of semiconductor/dielectric materials processes that reduce the transverse surface electric field for improved channel mobility in 4H-SiC MOSFETs.
Potential Carbon–Fluorine Reductive Elimination from Pincer-Supported Rh(III) and Dominating Side Reactions: Theoretical and Experimental Examination

This paper explores the potential for C–F reductive elimination from Rh(III) pincer complexes. A DFT computational study indicated that concerted C–F reductive elimination from (POCOP)Rh(CHCH2)(F) (3) (where POCOP is κ3P,C,P-2,6(iPr2PO)2C6H3, and aryl/bis(phosphinite) pincer ligand) possesses an experimentally plausible activation barrier of ΔG⧧ = 28.3 kcal/mol. This barrier is considerably lower than that calculated (35.7 kcal/mol) for the analogous C–F reductive elimination from (POCOP)Rh(Ph)(F) (1). The difference is ascribed to the need for a partial rotation of a phenyl or vinyl group in the transition state, with the phenyl being more encumbered by the steric bulk of the supporting pincer ligand. DFT calculations did not analyze the full range of possible side reactions, which have proven to be dominant. The attempted synthesis of 1 was unsuccessful because of competing C–C reductive elimination at the stage of the preparation of the (POCOP)Rh(CHCH2)(I) precursor. DFT calculations predicted C–C redu...
Thermo-Mechanical Investigations of the Electroplastic Effect

Recent development of Electrically-Assisted Manufacturing processes proved the advantages of using the electric current, mainly related with the decrease in the mechanical forming load and improvement in the formability when electrically-assisted forming of metals. The reduction of forming load was formulated previously assuming that a part of the electrical energy input is dissipated into heat, thus producing thermal softening of the material, while the remaining component directly aids the plastic deformation. The fraction of electrical energy applied that assists the deformation process compared to the total amount of electrical energy is given by the electroplastic effect coefficient. The objective of the current research is to investigate the complex effect of the electricity applied during deformation, and to establish a methodology for quantifying the electroplastic effect coefficient. Temperature behavior is observed for varying levels of deformation and previous cold work. Results are used to refine the understanding of the electroplastic effect coefficient, and a new relationship, in the form of a power law, is derived. This model is validated under independent experiments in Grade 2 (commercially pure) and Grade 5 (Ti-6Al-4V) titanium.© 2011 ASME
Two New Lichen Products, Elatinic Acid and Methyl Barbatate, from the Genus Haematomma (Ascomycotina, Haematommataceae)

Elatinic acid, the B-ring monomethyl ester ofsquamatic acid, and methyl barbatate are new secondary products in the lichen genus Haematomma. Although the chemistry of the monotypic Haematommataceae is complex and poorly known, these are the first compounds recognized as unique to the family. Elatinic acid is reported from three species, helping to clarify the taxonomy of two common ones, and methyl barbatate is reported from one species.
Revealing the Impact of Multiple Solutions in DCOPF on the Risk Assessment of Line Cascading Failure in OPA Model

Cascading failure is one of the most damaging events to power systems. To mitigate the risk, it is essential to first evaluate the risk and then take corresponding protective measures. However, the issue of multiple solutions in DCOPF, which is a tool used in the existing OPA risk assessment models and a linear programming (LP) problem, has not been considered. In this letter, we show that the risk may be seriously under-estimated if we do not consider the existence of multiple solutions. The risk is evaluated by generating two dispatch plans based on a bilevel mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model for DCOPF. The solution to the bilevel MILP model is obtained by solving one LP and one MILP. Simulation results based on the IEEE 118-bus and 300-bus systems demonstrate the impact of multiple solutions in DCOPF and effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Treatment of Hyperlipidemias in Childhood

Coronary heart disease risk factors can easily be recognized in school children, and even in infancy1,2. It has been proposed that the primary prevention of atherosclerosis might best begin in childhood, a period during which the actual vascular lesion is probably either absent or reversible2. This report is focused on therapy of hyperlipidemias in childhood, with the recognition that there are several effective approaches to normalization of elevated cholesterol and triglyceride. There is as yet, no prospective, longitudinal evidence that normalization of cholesterol and triglyceride levels in childhood will prevent the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
Epidemiological, Demographic and Outcome Characteristics of Burns

Abstract In 2014, approximately 200,000 deaths occurred in the United States from all injuries, and 31 million sustained non-fatal injuries. In a population of 318,857,056 persons, this represents a per capita death rate from injury of 0.063% (or approximately 6 per 10,000), and a non-fatal injury rate of 9.73% (or approximately 1 in 10). Therefore, injury is common, but related death is uncommon. For injuries from fire and burns specifically, 3,194 deaths occurred (1/100,000 population) which represented 1.6% of all injury fatalities, but only 1.3% of injuries. In all, 408,945 non-fatal burns occurred in the United States in 2014, giving a rate of 0.129% of persons in the United States sustaining a burn, or about 1 per 1000. These statistics indicate that burns remains a significant problem in the United States, and by implication the world. This chapter will investigate these statistics and changes that have occurred in burn occurrence, severity, and causes, and provide some insight into potential means to improve outcomes.
QoS Mapping: A Framework Model for Mapping Network Loss to Application Loss

Today's Internet provides only a single Class of Service (CoS) to all of its services (e.g., Multimedia, Data, Audio), namely the best-effort service. This service does not make any guarantees on the Quality of Service (QoS) an application receives. The continuous demands for QoS guarantees have led to the introduction of various network-layer mechanisms that provide some end-to-end QoS assurance including MPLS, Integrated Service Model (IntServ), and Differentiated Service Model (DiffServ). However, the QoS mapping between the network-layer and the application-layer is still a challenge and needs to be addressed. To guarantee and end-to-end QoS, it is essential to map QoS parameters between these layers. A framework for investigating the mapping of the packet loss rate as an important QoS parameter is presented here. The network QoS performance characteristic for the loss parameter is mapped from lower to upper layer in a quantifiable way.
Drosophila GTP Cyclohyrodrolase: Multiple Isoform Products of a Single Gene Derive from Alternate Transcripts that are Developmentally Regulated and Functionally Specific

GTP cyclohydrolase I (GTP CH) in Drosophila melanogaster is strikingly similar to its mammalian cognates by deduced protein homology as well as by biochemical mechanisms (1, 2; McLean, Krishnakumar and O’Donnell, submitted). As in mammals, GTP CH is the first and rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of pteridines; beyond the catalytic properties of the enzyme, the products of the pathway initiated by this enzyme share functional roles. For example, the aromatic amino acid hydroxylases in Drosophila require a pteridine cofactor for enzymatic activity (3, 4). The diversity of pteridine functions in multicellular organisms necessitates a complexity of regulatory mechanisms. In order to understand this complexity, an in vivo model is essential. The powerful molecular genetics of Drosophila make it a cogent system for such studies.
Sex and Adolescent Ethanol Exposure Influence Pavlovian Conditioned Approach.

Background Alcohol use among adolescents is widespread and a growing concern due to long-term behavioral deficits, including altered Pavlovian behavior, that potentially contribute to addiction vulnerability. We tested the hypothesis that adolescent intermittent ethanol (AIE) exposure alters Pavlovian behavior in males and females as measured by a shift from goal-tracking to sign-tracking. Additionally, we investigated GLT-1, an astrocytic glutamate transporter, as a potential contributor to a sign-tracking phenotype. Methods Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to AIE (5 g/kg, intragastric) or water intermittently 2 days on and 2 days off from postnatal day (P) 25 to 54. Around P70, animals began 20 daily sessions of Pavlovian conditioned approach (PCA), where they learned that a cue predicted noncontingent reward delivery. Lever pressing indicated interaction with the cue, or sign-tracking, and receptacle entries indicated approach to the reward delivery location, or goal-tracking. To test for effects of AIE on nucleus accumbens (NAcc) excitatory signaling, we isolated membrane subfractions and measured protein levels of the glutamate transporter GLT-1 after animals completed behavior as a measure of glutamate homeostasis. Results Females exhibited elevated sign-tracking compared to males with significantly more lever presses, faster latency to first lever press, and greater probability to lever press in a trial. AIE significantly increased lever pressing while blunting goal-tracking, as indicated by fewer cue-evoked receptacle entries, slower latency to receptacle entry, and lower probability to enter the receptacle in a trial. No significant sex-by-exposure interactions were observed in sign- or goal-tracking metrics. Moreover, we found no significant effects of sex or exposure on membrane GLT-1 expression in the NAcc. Conclusions Females exhibited enhanced sign-tracking compared to males, while AIE decreased goal-tracking compared to control exposure. Our findings support the hypothesis that adolescent binge ethanol can shift conditioned behavior from goal- to cue-directed in PCA, especially in females.
Understanding a Changing Landscape: New Evidence Concerning the Role of Distinctiveness in Multiracial Advertisements, an Extended Abstract

An unprecedented growth in people identifying as multiracial (e.g., Black and white, or simply “mixed”) has flourished in the wake of legal, political, social, and cultural recognition (Root 2003). Despite calls for increased attention to multiracial individuals (Kang and Bodenhausen 2015), our understanding of how this group responds to advertising is still limited.
Acquired von Willebrand Syndrome in an Infant With Coarctation of the Aorta and Williams Syndrome

An infant with coarctation of the aorta and Williams syndrome was noted to have petechiae in cardiology clinic prior to planned surgical intervention. Workup revealed acquired von Willebrand syndrome secondary to the high shear force generated by the aortic coarctation. He was treated with intra- and postoperative Humate P; there were no postoperative bleeding complications. His acquired von Willebrand syndrome resolved postoperatively.
THE INFLUENCE OF IDEALIZED INFLUENCE AND INDIVIDUALIZED CONSIDERATION ON ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT IN COMMERCIAL BANKS IN KENYA

Purpose : The purpose of this study was to establish the influence of idealized influence and individualized consideration on organizational commitment in commercial banks in Kenya. Methodology : The study adopted the positivist research philosophy and descriptive correlational design. A sample of 150 was drawn from a population of 240 senior managers of the 40 commercial banks of Kenya using stratified random sampling technique. The tool used to collect data was questionnaire. Out of 150 questionnaires that were administered, 139 responses were received from the senior managers, giving a 93% response rate. Data was analyzed using inferential statistics such as Pearson correlations, Chi Square, ANOVA and multiple linear regression. Results : The results of the regression (R2=.695, F (1,139) =34.184, p<.05, ( β = .448, t (139)= 5.847, p < .05), indicated that idealized influence significantly predicted organizational commitment and therefore the null hypothesis was rejected. In addition, Results of the regression (R2=.738, F (1,139) =5.377, p<.05, ( β = .295, t (139) = 2.319, p < .05) indicated that individualized consideration significantly predicted organizational commitment. Based on the results the null hypothesis was rejected. Organizational culture showed a significant influence on the relationship between transformational leadership and organizational commitment as showed by the coefficients ( β = .229, t = 2.211, p < .05). The moderating variable organizational culture was also strongly correlated to organizational commitment, r (138) = .718, p < .05. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study provides a unique contribution to the theory and practice of transformational leadership by extending its application in a new context in terms how idealized influence and individualized consideration affect organizational commitment in commercial banks in Kenya. The study also provides unique contribution in terms of recommendations for policy development initiatives aimed at improving employee commitment and performance in the banking industry in Kenya.
Vascularization of Microfluidic Hydrogels

This chapter describes methods to form, vascularize, and optimize microfluidic hydrogels for applications in tissue engineering. Methods to form such scaffolds are based on removal of a sacrificial material or on the bonding of gels. Long-term stable vascularization of microfluidic gels appears to require leakproof vessels. Perfusion introduces chemical and mechanical signals that play complementary roles in controlling the stability of the vessel wall. Computational models enable optimization of microfluidic designs for which perfusion through the vessels is stable and sufficient to oxygenate surrounding tissue. Modulation of scaffold pressures with the use of drainage channels is an important strategy to promote vascular stability. We propose a straightforward algorithm for the design of microfluidic scaffolds for perfusion of vascularized, engineered tissues.
Remedying Dysfunctional Marital Communication

This article delineates interventions that a therapist may use in interviews with couples to help them identify, own responsibility for, and modify problematic interactional communication. Early re...
Horse eosinophil degranulation induced by the ionophore A23187. Ultrastructure and role of phospholipase A2

Horse eosinophils stimulated with the calcium ionophore A23187 were examined by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Secretion was characterized by granule movement to the cell periphery and fusion of adjacent granules. The granules became swollen and less electron-dense as their contents were released into large intracellular vacuoles, which opened to the outside of the cell through surface pores. A23187-induced eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) release, as measured by guaiacol oxidation, was blocked by eicosa-5,8,11,14-tetraynoic acid (ETYA) (which inhibits both the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism) but not by indomethacin (which inhibits only the cyclooxygenase pathway). Highly purified porcine phospholipase A2 induced noncytotoxic eosinophil degranulation (as measured by the release of EPO without the concomitant release of the cytoplasmic marker lactate dehydrogenase), which was blocked by pretreatment of the enzyme with the phospholipase A2 inhibitor 4-bromophenacyl bromide. These results suggest that calcium-dependent activation of phospholipase A2 and generation of lipoxygenase products of arachidonic acid metabolism are important in the initiation of eosinophil degranulation.
Singularities of the First Kind

In this chapter, we consider a system of differential equations $$x\frac{{d\vec{y}}}{{dx}} = \vec{f}\left( {x,\vec{y}} \right)$$ (E) assuming that the entries of the \({{\mathbb{C}}^{n}}\)-valued function \(\vec{f}\) are convergent power series in complex variables \(\left( {x,\vec{y}} \right) \in {{\mathbb{C}}^{{n + 1}}}\) with coefficients in ℂ, where x is a complex independent variable and \(\vec{y} \in {{\mathbb{C}}^{n}}\) is an unknown quantity. The main tool is calculation with power series in x. In §I-4, using successive approximations, we constructed power series solutions. However, generally speaking, in order to construct a power series solution \(\vec{y}\left( x \right) = \sum\limits_{{m = 1}}^{\infty } {{{x}^{m}}{{{\vec{a}}}_{m}}}\) this expression is inserted into the given differential equation to find relationships among the coefficients \({{\vec{a}}_{m}}\), and the coefficients \({{\vec{a}}_{m}}\) are calculated by using these relationships. In this stage of the calculation, we do not pay any attention to the convergence of the series. This process leads us to the concept of formal power series solutions (cf. §V-1). Having found a formal power series solution, we estimate \(|{{\vec{a}}_{m}}|\) to test its convergence. As the function \({{x}^{{ - 1}}}\vec{f}\left( {x,\vec{y}} \right)\) is not analytic at x = 0, Theorem I-4-1 does not apply to system (E). Furthermore, the existence of formal power series solutions of (E) is not always guaranteed. Nevertheless, it is known that if a formal power series solution of (E) exists, then the series is always convergent. This basic result is explained in §V-2 (cf. [CL, Theorem 3.1, pp. 117-119] and [Wasl, Theorem 5.3, pp. 22-25] for the case of linear differential equations]). In §V-3, we define the S-N decomposition for a lower block-triangular matrix of infinite order. Using such a matrix, we can represent a linear differential operator $$ \mathcal{L}\left[ {\vec y} \right]{\text{ = }}x\frac{{d\vec y}}{{dx}}{\text{ + }}\Omega {\text{(}}x{\text{)}} \vec y, $$ (LDO) Where \(\Omega \left( x \right)\) is an n x n matrix whose entries are formal power series in x with coefficients in ℂ n . In this way, we derive the S-N decomposition of L in §V-4 and a normal form of L in §V-5 (cf. [HKS]). The S-N decomposition of L was originally defined in [GerL]. In §V-6, we calculate the normal form of a given operator L by using a method due to M. Hukuhara (cf. [Si17, §3.9, pp. 85-89]). We explain the classification of singularities of homogeneous linear differential equations in §V-7. Some basic results concerning linear differential equations given in this chapter are also found in [CL, Chapter 4].
Circularity, Non-Linear Justification and Holistic Coherentism

Laurence BonJour defends the coherence theory against the charge of circularity.1 Part of his defense seems to rely on a non-linear theory of inferential justification. In this paper I will examine this response to the charge of circularity. I hope to show that BonJour (and other amenable coherentists) can and do respond to the circularity problem but that the response does not rely on any non-linear theory of inferential justification. The response instead relies on some more fundamental features of the coherentist view.
Measurements of Ultracomplex and Ultraweak Pulses with FROG

The full intensity-and-phase characterization of ultrashort laser pulses is now routine in scientific research. Techniques such as frequency-resolved optical gating (FROG) [1] have been widely applied to obtain such information, which is essential in many applications. However, what we have been able to measure so far are mostly simple laser pulses. There are many more light pulses in general, and they aren’t always emitted by lasers, and they can be extremely complicated, very weak, and quite variable from shot to shot. Many more applications involve these “ill-conditioned” pulses, and the ability to measure these pulses will be an invaluable tool to many researchers. In this report we extend the FROG technique to the measurement of ultracomplex (supercontinuum) and ultraweak (bioluminescence) light pulses. Only minor modifications to the FROG apparatus and algorithm are required for these measurements.
Utilizing a Source-Path-Contribution Approach with a Desktop NVH Simulator to Improve Powertrain NVH Development Efficiency

Evaluating powertrain sounds in a virtual vehicle environment is a key technology enabler for improving NVH development efficiency. NVH Simulator models constructed utilizing a source-path-contribution approach allow for assessment of individual subsystem contributions during simulated drives, all in the absence of prototype vehicles. Application examples are presented to show how the tool is utilized to facilitate powertrain NVH hardware/target compatibility decisions in the early stages of program development.
Executive Turnover and the Investigation of Former Leaders in New Democracies

What prompts governments in new democracies to investigate elected leaders once they leave office? Theorizing about democratic regimes suggests that leadership turnover by constitutional means shou...
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN VENTRICULAR CHAMBER AND TISSUE REMODELING IN AORTIC REGURGITATION

It is unclear if gender influences aortic regurgitation (AR) related chamber or tissue remodeling. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) accurately determines AR severity and fibrosis burden. We utilized CMR to study gender differences in left ventricular (LV) remodeling to AR. We enrolled patients with
Export Structure and Growth: A Detailed Analysis for Argentina

This paper examines recent changes in the structure of Argentine exports and the implications for future growth. The authors find that the current export structure of Argentina is not conducive to future growth because it is dominated by low-productivity goods that tend to be exported by low-income countries. The productivity content of Argentine exports has increased recently although, as of 2004, these changes have been relatively minor. The authors identify products with characteristics similar to those currently exported by Argentina and which are more likely to foster growth because they would shift the structure of exports more the efficiency frontier. Those products include chemicals and primary products with some degree of value added, including partly processed meat, fish and grains. If economic growth is to be fostered by developing new export products and by increasing the value added of existing exports, there will be a need for sector-specific analysis to address possible market failures. The analysis should focus on issues such as the provision of public goods needed for production (including infrastructure, but also complex intangibles such as sector-specific legislation), possible impediments to effective coordination, sector-specific and economy wide externalities, or barriers to information. This last source of potential market failure is critical to a successful policy framework for exports and growth.
Viral Venereal Diseases of the Skin

Viral venereal diseases remain difficult to treat. Human papilloma virus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) are two common viral venereal diseases. HPV infections are characterized by anogenital warts and less commonly by premalignant or malignant lesions. HSV infections classically present as grouped vesicles on an erythematous base with associated burning or pain; however, immunosuppressed patients may have atypical presentations with nodular or ulcerative lesions. This review discusses the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of anogenital HPV and HSV infections with an emphasis on treatment modalities for the practicing dermatologist. Diagnosis of these diseases typically relies on clinical assessment, although multiple diagnostic techniques can be utilized and are recommended when diagnosis is uncertain or evaluating an individual with increased risk of malignancy. Management of HPV and HSV infections involves appropriate counseling, screening, and multiple treatment techniques. Particularly for HPV infections, a practitioner may need to use a combination of techniques to achieve the desired outcome.
"Mediating Fruitful Encounters with Truth, Transcendence, and Difference by Teaching Critical Thinking"

Cultivating a disposition of critical thinking among students and faculty can provide a means of addressing troubling cultural trends like breakdowns in public discourse, academic siloing, and dise...
Replication Fork Uncoupling Causes Nascent Strand Degradation and Fork Reversal

Genotoxins cause nascent strand degradation (NSD) and fork reversal during DNA replication. NSD and fork reversal are crucial for genome stability and exploited by chemotherapeutic approaches. However, it is unclear how NSD and fork reversal are triggered. Additionally, the fate of the replicative helicase during these processes is unknown. We developed a biochemical approach to study synchronous, localized NSD and fork reversal using Xenopus egg extracts. We show that replication fork uncoupling stimulates NSD of both nascent strands and progressive conversion of uncoupled forks to reversed forks. The replicative helicase remains bound during NSD and fork reversal, indicating that both processes take place behind the helicase. Unexpectedly, NSD occurs before and after fork reversal, indicating that multiple degradation steps take place. Overall, our data show that uncoupling causes NSD and fork reversal and identify key steps involved in these processes.
Understanding and Treating Patients in Clinical Psychoanalysis: Lessons from Literature

Introduction: Characters in Fiction as Templates for Clinical Assessment and Treatment, 1. Schizoid Relating, 2. Paranoid Processing, 3. Humiliated Suffering, 4. Grandiose Posturing, 5. Hysterical Bargaining, 6. Obsessive, Controlling, 7. Anguished Grieving, 8. Depressive Self-Harming, 9. Generative Aging.
Association of Geroprotective Effects of Metformin and Risk of Open-Angle Glaucoma in Persons With Diabetes Mellitus

Importance Caloric restriction mimetic drugs have geroprotective effects that delay or reduce risks for a variety of age-associated systemic diseases, suggesting that such drugs might also have the potential to reduce risks of blinding ophthalmologic conditions for which age is a major risk factor. Objective To determine whether the caloric restriction mimetic drug metformin hydrochloride is associated with reduced risk of open-angle glaucoma (OAG) in persons with diabetes mellitus. Design, Setting, and Patients Retrospective cohort study of patients aged 40 years or older with diabetes mellitus and no preexisting record of OAG in a large US managed care network from January 1, 2001, through December 31, 2010. Exposures Quantity of metformin and other prescribed diabetes medications as captured from outpatient pharmacy records. Main Outcomes and Measures Risk of developing OAG. Results Of 150 016 patients with diabetes mellitus, 5893 (3.9%) developed OAG. After adjusting for confounding factors, those prescribed the highest quartile of metformin hydrochloride (>1110 g in 2 years) had a 25% reduced OAG risk relative to those who took no metformin (hazard ratio = 0.75; 95% CI, 0.59-0.95; P = .02). Every 1-g increase in metformin hydrochloride use was associated with a 0.16% reduction in OAG risk (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.99984; 95% CI, 0.99969-0.99999; P = .04), which predicts that taking a standard dose of 2 g of metformin hydrochloride per day for 2 years would result in a 20.8% reduction in risk of OAG. After accounting for potential confounders, including metformin and diabetic medications, the risk of developing OAG was increased by 8% (hazard ratio = 1.08; 95% CI, 1.03-1.13; P = .003) for each unit of increase in glycated hemoglobin level. Conclusions and Relevance Metformin use is associated with reduction in risk of developing OAG, and risk is reduced even when accounting for glycemic control in the form of glycated hemoglobin level. Other diabetes medications did not confer a similar OAG risk reduction. This study suggests that metformin may be affecting OAG risk on multiple levels, some involving improved glycemic control and some involving mechanisms outside glycemic control such as neurogenesis, inflammatory systems, or longevity pathways targeted by caloric restriction mimetic drugs. If confirmed by prospective clinical trials, these findings could lead to novel treatments for this sight-threatening disease.
Incorporating sheep into dryland grain production systems. III. Impact on changes in soil bulk density and soil nutrient profiles

Changes in soil bulk density and soil nutrient profiles are a major concern of dryland grain producers considering grazing sheep on cereal stubble fields. Our objective was to compare burned, grazed, tilled, trampled and clipped wheat stubble fields on changes in soil bulk density and soil nutrient profiles. Treatments were evaluated in a series of three experiments using a randomized complete block design and four replications at each site. Contrast statements were used to make pre-planned comparisons among treatments. For Experiment 1, treatments were fall tilled, fall grazed, spring grazed, fall and spring combined (Fall/Spr) grazed, and an untreated control. Five mature ewes were confined with electric fence to a 111 m 2 plot for 24 h for fall and spring grazed plots resulting in a stocking rate of 452 sheeps d/ha. For Fall/Spr, the stocking rate was 904 sheeps d/ha. For Experiment 2, treatments were fall grazed, fall burned, fall tilled, and an untreated control. In Experiment 3, treatments were fall trampling by sheep, spring trampling by sheep, fall and spring combined (Fall/Spr) trampling by sheep, hand clipping to a stubble height of 4.5 cm, and an untreated control. Trampling treatments were done at the same stocking rates as grazing treatments but sheep were muzzled to prevent intake. In Experiment 1, post-treatment organic matter tended to be greater (P = 0.09) in the mean of the grazed treatments than control plots. In all of the experiments, change in soil bulk density, and soil nutrient profiles did not consistently differ (P > 0.07) among treatments in any manner that would suggest a detrimental impact of grazing sheep on small grain residue. These results indicate a strong potential for grazing sheep on grain stubble without adversely impacting soil bulk density or nutrient profiles. © 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Teenage mothers, labor force participation, and wage rates

Outline and estimation of the coefficients of a model of labor force participation and wage rates proposed by Heckman indicate that the independent effect of age at 1st birth on the market wage once other social and demographic variables are controlled is negligible; education and experience are the important determinants of the market wage. The model is attractive because the assumption is not made that working women constitute a random sample of all women. Such an assumption can be shown to lead to biased estimates of the parameters of the equations which determine wages and hours of work. Age at 1st birth does have an impact on the reservation wage even when education and other fertility measures are held constant. This impact is significant large and positive only for whites; increasing throug age at 1st birth lowers their propensity to work. It is however very possible that age at 1st birth affects educational attainment which has been shown to have a profound positive effect on both the market wage and labor force participation. It is concluded that if teenage motherhood does have economic impacts on the women such effects are likely to operate through education.
Refresh rate modulation for perceptually optimized computer graphics

The application of human visual perception models to remove imperceptible components in a graphics system, has been proven effective in achieving significant computational speedup. Previous implementations of such techniques have focused on spatial level of detail reduction, which typically results in noticeable degradation of image quality. We introduce Refresh Rate Modulation (RRM), a novel perceptual optimization technique that produces better performance enhancement while more effectively preserving image quality and resolving static scene elements in full detail. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique, we have developed a graphics framework that interfaces with eye tracking hardware to take advantage of user fixation data in real-time. Central to the framework is a high-performance GPGPU ray-tracing engine. RRM reduces the frequency with which pixels outside of the foveal region are updated by the ray-tracer. A persistent pixel buffer is maintained such that peripheral data from previous frames provides context for the foveal image in the current frame. Applying the RRM technique to the ray-tracing engine results in a speedup of 3.2 (260 fps vs. 82 fps at 1080p) for the classic Whitted scene without secondary rays and a speedup of 6.3 (119 fps vs. 19 fps at 1080p) with them. We also observe a speedup of 2.8 (138 fps vs. 49 fps at 1080p) for a high-polygon scene that depicts the Stanford Bunny. A user study indicates that RRM achieves these results with minimal impact to perceived image quality. We also investigate the performance benefits of increasing physics engine error tolerance for bounding volume hierarchy based collision detection when the scene elements involved are in the user's periphery. For a scene with a static high-polygon model and 50 moving spheres, a speedup of 1.8 was observed for physics calculations.
DFT Investigation on the Competition of the Water–Gas Shift Reaction Versus Methanation on Clean and Potassium‐Modified Nickel(1 1 1) Surfaces

We used periodic DFT calculations to investigate the effect of alkali promoter on the selectivity of the water-gas shift reaction (WGSR) explicitly on the Ni(1 1 1) surface. On clean Ni(1 1 1), the WGSR redox and carboxyl pathways are both kinetically competitive. The selectivity of the WGSR can be affected by methanation on Ni, in which the CO bond cleavage pathway of CHO is the most competitive. A Ni(1 1 1) surface modified with K adatoms was used to further understand the promoter effects on the WGSR selectivity. A combined energetic and kinetic analysis from DFT calculations indicates that the K adatom stabilizes certain reactive intermediates (e.g., H2O, CO) thermodynamically but is energetically neutral or even repulsive toward other intermediates. As a result, WGSR pathways benefit from the presence of K adatoms compared to the competing methanation pathway. This study thus confirmed the promoting effects of alkali metals on the WGSR with DFT-based mechanistic insights.
A nuclear protein with sequence similarity to proteins implicated in human acute leukemias is important for cellular morphogenesis and actin cytoskeletal function in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Abstract The cellular functions of the product of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae ANC1 (actin non-complementing) gene were investigated. ANC1 was previously identified in a screen for mutations that enhance the defect caused by a mutation in the actin gene. Here, we show that anc1-1 and anc1 delta 1::HIS3 (gene deletion) mutants exhibit a novel combination of defects in the organization of the actin cytoskeleton and the localization of Spa2p, a protein implicated in polarity development and cytokinesis. Morphological abnormalities exhibited by anc1 mutants include failure to form a mating projection in response to alpha-factor and development of swollen or elongated cell shapes during proliferation. These morphological aberrations correlate with cytoskeletal defects that were also observed. These phenotypes demonstrate that Anc1p is important for actin function and for the functions of other proteins involved in morphogenesis. In further support of these roles for Anc1p, the anc1 delta 1::HIS3 mutation was found to be synthetically lethal in combination with a null mutation in SLA1, a gene that is important for membrane cytoskeleton function. Surprisingly, Anc1p was found to be a nuclear protein and to have sequence similarity to the human proteins ENL and AF-9. These human proteins are implicated in the development of a subset of acute lymphoblastic leukemias, acute myeloid leukemias, and lymphomas. Our findings suggest that changes in the functions or organization of actin filaments might contribute to the establishment of the neoplastic state for these leukemias and lymphomas.
Effect of transverse velocity and temperature gradients on sound attenuation in two-dimensional ducts

An investigation is described of the effect of transverse mean-velocity and temperature gradients on sound attenuation in acoustically treated two-dimensional ducts. The results show that cooling the duct walls leads to channeling the sound toward the walls for both downstream and upstream propagation. The effect of mean-temperature gradients on the attenuation rates of the lowest three modes can be as important as the effect of mean-velocity gradients.
Effects of tissue acidosis on skeletal muscle microcirculatory responses to hemorrhagic shock in unanesthetized rats

Arteriolar dilatation, loss of venous tone, and uptake of shed blood characterize decompensated hemorrhagic shock. The loss of compensatory constrictor responses to hemorrhage mainly occurs in the skeletal muscle microcirculation. Tissue acidosis may be an important mediator of this phenomenon. Using a decerebrate in vivo rat cremaster muscle preparation, we observed the microcirculatory responses to hemorrhagic hypotension with cremaster bath conditions of pH 7.4 and pH 7.0. Our data indicate that tissue acidosis attenuates constrictor responses of larger arterioles (100-170 micron) and venules to hemorrhagic hypotension but has no effect on the dilator responses of small arterioles (10-30 micron). We conclude that tissue acidosis contributes significantly to loss of arteriolar resistance and to decreased venous return in the decompensatory phase of hemorrhagic shock.
CRACK PROPAGATION MODELING

In this paper, we review recent advances in mathematical and computer science techniques for modeling crack propagation in solids. The fracture mechanics aspect of this problem is attacked by boundary integral equation methods, in particular the use of hypersingular integral equations for analyzing crack geometries. Key issues in the development of a software system capable of efficient crack propagation studies are also discussed. As an illustration of these techniques, calculations analyzing crack growth in a fuel door hinge on the Space Shuttle are presented.
Resolution of racemic carbovir and selective inhibition of human immunodeficiency virus by the (−) enantiomer

Abstract (+/−) Carbocyclic 2′,3′-didehydro-2′,3′-dideoxyguanosine (Carbovir; NSC 614846) is an antiretroviral agent which is undergoing preclinical evaluation for the treatment of AIDS. Racemic carbovir was separated into its D and L enantiomers by the action of adenosine deaminase on the 2,6-diaminopurine precursor. Subsequent evaluation of the enantiomers against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 revealed that the antiviral activity of carbovir resides in the (−) isomer that is analagous to the nucleoside, β-D-2′,3′-didehydro-2′,3′-dideoxyguanosine.
On estimating the orders of an autoregressive moving-average process with uncertain observations

A method is proposed for estimating the orders of an autoregressive moving-average process solely from the observations of the noise-corrupted output. The order of the autoregressive (number of poles) can be determined by testing the singularity of the correlation matrix, while the order of the moving-average (number of zeros) can be determined from observing the repetitive pattern of the correlation equations.
Oxidation of α,β-enones and alkenes with oxone and sodium halides: A convenient laboratory preparation of chlorine and bromine

Abstract Mixtures of oxone and sodium chloride or sodium bromide afford solutions of chlorine or bromine, respectively. These solutions effectively add chlorine and bromine to α,β-enones and alkenes. The method affords improved yields of 3-alkyl-2-halo-2-cycloalkenones which are sometimes difficult to prepare.
An automated trainer for improving visual acuity in myopic adults

Several studies have found training procedures derived from the experimental analysis of behavior to result in improved visual acuity for myopic adults. The present paper describes an automated trainer that incorporates critical training components and eliminates excessive time demands of the fading and feedback procedures reported in the literature. Implications for standardization and long-term training are discussed.