cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A discussion of generalized routh-hurwitz conditions for nonlinear systems

The second method of Liapunov is used to establish global asymptotic stability for certain nonlinear differential equations. On the basis of results obtained it is found that criteria, similar to the usua Routh-Hurwitz criteria for linear systems, can be established for rather general nonlinear systems. The results of other authors' investigations are discussed in view of the variable gradient method of generating Liapunov functions, and the results extended to the case of a third-order control system with numerator dynamics; they are of practical interest.
Early history of the high-fidelity finite-impulse-response filter

The little-known efforts of some 19th-century digital filter designers are reviewed. Their object was to separate a precise curve from added random noise, and as such their work is relevant to certain current applications such as inertial navigation. Several classical design methods are described, and examples are given. The work of G.F. Hardy is of particular significance, as it introduces a method which can be extended to the point that, with the aid of a computer, it is capable of designing modern high-fidelity filters.
REMOTE SENSING OF NO AND NO2 EMISSIONS FROM HEAVY-DUTY DIESEL TRUCKS USING TUNABLE DIODE LASERS

On-road remote sensors can measure the emissions of motor vehicles under real-world conditions. The most sensitive remote sensing technique reported to date is tunable infrared laser differential a...
Overview of the user program for the Jefferson Lab free-electron laser

Jefferson Lab is commissioning a high-average-power IR FEL during 1998. When driven with its superconducting linac operating in a recirculated mode, the IR Demo FEL is capable of producing kilowatt-level average power in the mid-IR range. With operational experience and hardware changes involving primarily change-out of the optical cavity mirrors, the FEL is capable of covering a wide range of the IR at power levels exceeding 100 watts. This tuning range combined with a unique pulse structure makes the Jefferson Lab FEL a versatile research and development tool for a wide variety of laser applications. A core group of industrial partners has been involved in planning applications using the FEL since 1991. This initial user group was augmented with university partners in 1993 and with participants from several national laboratories in 1996-1997. With the initiation of construction of the FEL and the associated 600 m2 user facility laboratory in 1996, a number of topical user groups were formed to plan and implement the first series of user experiments. The industrial partners have formed user groups planning applications in polymer surface processing, metal surface processing, microfabrication, and electronic materials. University partners have submitted proposals, metal surface processing, microfabrication, and electronic materials. University partners have submitted proposals on basic science topics which complement and planned applied research topics, in addition to proposing experiments in atomic physics, chemical physics and materials science which take advantage of one or more of the unique characteristics of the FEL. A synopsis of the proposed user experiments for the first phase of operation of the Jefferson Lab FEL will be presented.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Using a Bayesian Approach to Quantify Scale Compatibility Bias

This paper proposes a new analytical framework to quantify and correct for scale compatibility bias in the assessment of trade-off weights in multiattribute value analysis. The procedure is demonstrated with an application to a fisheries management problem. Trade-off judgments are elicited from a group of fisheries experts with management responsibility in the Lake Erie basin. Then we use a Bayesian method to compute posterior probability distributions of attribute weights. In computing the Bayesian weights, our measurement model assumes that the weight ratios produced by each respondent's judgments are subject to random error and an unknown scale compatibility bias. Ratios are log-transformed and analyzed by a Bayesian linear model with a noninformative prior distribution. Posterior distributions are then developed for the weights and the bias. We estimate the compatibility bias for each person and, in most cases, it is found to be large and in the predicted direction, suggesting the importance of its consideration in deriving trade-off weights. In addition, the Bayesian framework is shown to be useful for quantifying the value of additional information about multiattribute weights. Finally, a simple heuristic procedure for assessing the weights appears to be effective in eliminating the bias.
Development of a Practical and Convergent Process for the Preparation of Sulopenem

Previous synthetic processes for the preparation of sulopenem involved multistep linear sequences in which the chiral sulfoxide side chain was introduced early in the process. This contribution summarizes the development of a practical and convergent process for the large-scale preparation of 1. The key step in the synthesis involves cyclization of an oxalimide intermediate to provide the thiopenem core. This convergent strategy allows for late introduction of the expensive and labile chiral sulfoxide subunit. Additionally, a regioselective sulfur oxidation and an improved deprotection sequence were developed. The latter provides API of high purity without the need for recrystallization.
A GENERAL METHOD OF OBTAINING EXACT SAMPLING PROBABILITIES OF THE SHANNON-WIENER MEASURE OF INFORMATION, H

A two-variable generating function is described which yields the sampling probabilities of the Shannon-Wiener information measure. Expansion and collection of terms in like powers of the first variable imposes the restriction that the sum of thek category frequencies equaln; collection of terms in like powers of the second variable then produces terms whose coefficients are the required probabilities. The method may be used with either equal or unequal category probabilities for any finiten andk, and thus represents a general solution to the small sample problem. Tables of sampling probabilities are presented.
Insulin resistance implications for type II diabetes mellitus and coronary heart disease.

Abstract PURPOSE: To review information on the implications of insulin resistance for type II diabetes mellitus (non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus) and coronary heart disease, and to derive guidance from this information for the management of these conditions. DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search of English-language articles published between 1985 and July 1996, and review of the bibliographies of articles obtained through the MEDLINE search and textbooks. STUDY SELECTION: Primary research articles, reviews and perspectives on the epidemiology of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases and on intervention outcomes in these diseases. DATA EXTRACTION: Study design and quality were assessed, with particular attention to methods, study population size and other characteristics. Conclusions of review articles and perspectives were analyzed critically. DATA SYNTHESIS: Type II diabetes is associated with a two- to fourfold excess of coronary heart disease, compared to nondiabetic populations. In most studies, glycemia and duration of clinical diabetes were found to be only weak risk factors for coronary heart disease. Conventional coronary heart disease risk factors such as dyslipidemia and hypertension have been associated with coronary heart disease in type II diabetes subjects. Hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance have been predictive of the development of type II diabetes and, in some studies, of coronary heart disease. CONCLUSION: Strategies to prevent the development of coronary heart disease in diabetic and possibly prediabetic subjects should emphasize a multifactorial approach, including: a) improved glycemic control; b) aggressive treatment of risk factors for coronary heart disease, including insulin resistance; c) primary prevention of NIDDM; and d) use of glucose lowering agents that improve insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular risk factors.
Solution structure of the minor conformer of a DNA duplex containing a dG mismatch opposite a benzo[a]pyrene diol epoxide/dA adduct: glycosidic rotation from syn to anti at the modified deoxyadenosine.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widespread environmental contaminants whose metabolism in mammals results in deleterious cell transformation. Covalent modification of DNA by diol epoxides metabolically formed from PAHs such as benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) provides a mechanism for the genotoxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity of PAHs. We had previously reported NMR evidence for a minor conformer of the duplex d(G1G2T3C4A5*C6G7A8G9)·d(C10T11C12G13G14G15A16C17C18) containing a dG14 mismatch opposite a dA5* residue modified at the exocyclic amino group by trans addition to (+)-(7R,8S,9S,10R)-7,8-dihydroxy-9,10-epoxy-7,8,9,10-tetrahydrobenzo[a]pyrene [Yeh, H. J. C., Sayer, J. M., Liu, X., Altieri, A. S., Byrd, R. A., Lashman, M. K., Yagi, H., Schurter, E. J., Gorenstein, D. G., & Jerina, D. M. (1995) Biochemistry 34, 13570−13581]. In the present work, we describe the structure of this minor conformer (ca. 17% of the total conformer population). This represents the first structural determination of a ...
Accelerometer measurements for noninvasive diagnosis of degenerative joint diseases

In the area of medical diagnosis, noninvasive quantitative patient assessment techniques are fast replacing the traditional qualitative patient evaluation methods based on "feeling". Noninvasive diagnosis of arthritis and chondromalacia presents a continuing problem in the domain of biomedical engineering.
Performance analysis of cryogenic silicon Laue monochromators at APS undulators

We investigated the performance of a cryogenically cooled silicon monochromator crystal exposed to high power x-ray undulator radiation. The heat transfer in this nonlinear material was studied analytically by approximating the thermal conductivity and then scaling relations for the temperature distributions with the cooling temperature and the power load were found. The strain distributions in this nonlinear material were studied analytically by approximating the thermal expansion coefficient. The broadening of the rocking curve was found to be determined, to the first order, by the maximum temperature and a load factor (gamma) which is determined by the properties of the source and the crystal, and independent of the optical geometry. Major conclusions were verified through numerical analysis with the program ANSYS. We concluded that cryogenically cooled silicon Laue monochromator should work with Undulator A at the Advanced Photon Source.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
IN VITRO EFFECTS OF PUROMYCIN AMINONUCLEOSIDE ON LIVER CARBOHYDRATE SYNTHESIS.

The effect of puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN), an inhibitor of enzyme synthesis, on gluconeogenesis in rat liver slices has been investigated. It was found that PAN impaired hepatic carbohydrate synthesis from endogenous precursors and that this effect was overcome by adding L-alanine to the medium as substrate. PAN also greatly reduced the increased gluconeogenesis which is induced by adrenal cortical hormones in vitro. These observations support the postulate that the effect of corticosteroids on carbohydrate formation in liver depends on new enzyme synthesis. (Endocrinology 76: 191, 1965)
Personality impression formation in a Maximizing Difference game

Introduction Investigators interested in behavior in the Prisoner's Dilemma game situation have focused a good deal of attention on the effects of sending the subjects "programmed" strategies. The subject, while believing that he is playing against another subject, is actually playing against a strategy selected by the experimenter. Becker and McClintock (1967) have summarized the findings of such studies by noting that, at best, such strategies have a small effect upon the behavior of the players. These experiments have, for the most part, employed a standard Prisoner's Dilemma matrix. However, McClintock and Messick (1965) have suggested that a relaxed version of the Prisoner's Dilemma game, known as the Maximizing Difference game, may be more sensitive to factors which could induce greater cooperation. A Maximizing Difference matrix is shown in Figure 1. This matrix has the advantage of establishing a unitary motive for the competitive response, i.e., the desire to maximize the difference between one's own payoff and that of one's opponent. Gallo (1966), using a Maximizing Difference matrix, compared the results of fair games, random strategies of from 80 to 100
Quantum 3D finite-difference-time-domain (Q-FDTD) analysis of InGaAs-GaAsP quantum-dot nanostructures

Here we present a full 3-D numerical model based on Quantum-Finite-Difference-Time-Domain (Q-FDTD) method, with Perfectly Matched Layer (PML) boundary condition, as a versatile tool to accurately analyze 3-D QD nanostructure with arbitrary shape. Model solid theory has been utilized to determine the 3-D band lineup of the QD heterostructure. The effects of strain distribution, and effective mass distribution on the band structure of the QD nanostructure are also taken into account in the model. The Q-FDTD computation has been applied for analyzing MOCVD-grown InGaAs QDs with GaAs 1-x P x barriers on GaAs. The Q-FDTD simulation, using the QDs shape measured by TEM and AFM, shows good agreement with the experimental results obtained from the as-grown InGaAs QDs with GaAs 1-x P x barriers.
Role of the Madelung energy in hole conductivity in copper oxides: Difference between semiconductors and high-Tc superconductors.

The difference in Madelung site potential, \ensuremath{\Delta}${V}_{M}$, between a hole on a copper site and one on an oxygen site can control the hole's site preference and ability to delocalize. Among a variety of copper oxide structures, e\ensuremath{\Delta}${V}_{M}$ is shown to vary by \ensuremath{\sim}3 eV and to clearly separate two classes of compounds: Those with e\ensuremath{\Delta}${V}_{M}$g47 eV are metallic with high ${T}_{c}$ and delocalized holes, whereas those with lower \ensuremath{\Delta}${V}_{M}$ are semiconducting because their holes are self-trapped on oxygen.
Inhibition of Increased Potassium Permeability Following Fertilization of the Echinoderm Embryo; Its Relationship to the Initiation of Protein Synthesis and Potassium Exchangeability

Abstract Addition of 10 m M Ba to suspensions of single-cell embryos of the echnioderm Lytechinus results in a depolarization of membrane potential, an increase in membrane resistance, and a reduction of the unidirectional efflux rate coefficient for potassium. All these effects are consistent with a decrease in membrane permeability to potassium ion ( P K ). Determination of P K in the presence of Ba indicates a 3- to 5-fold decrease in its magnitude as compared to Ba free cells. Ba at concentrations of 0.5 m M or less has no significant effect on P K . Its effect is maximal at approximately 10 m M , and it is completely reversible upon Ba removal. Eggs fertilized and maintained in 10 m M Ba do not undergo the 3- to 4-fold increase in P K which follows fertilization but rather, they maintain values for P K equivalent to or less than those found in the unfertilized egg. This allows one to evaluate the relationship of the normal increase in P K to the increase in the exchangeability of intracellular K and the onset of protein synthesis, both of which occur shortly after fertilization. The results indicate that the onset of protein synthesis and the increased exchange of intracellular K are events which are independent of the increase in P K . Neither is significantly altered by Ba suppression of the P K increase. The results also indicate that active K transport and amino acid transport are unaffected by maintenance of a low P K . Furthermore, inhibition of protein synthesis (greater than 95% with 10 −4 M emetine) does not prevent the increased exchange of intracellular K or the increase in P K . Active K transport and amino acid transport are also unaffected.
African-american and latina adolescent mothers’ infant feeding decisions and breastfeeding practices: A qualitative study

Abstract Purpose: To explore minority teen mothers' perceptions of breastfeeding and the influences on infant feeding choices. Methods: A qualitative study using semistructured ethnographic interviews and focus groups involving 35 Latina and African-American girls in Chicago between the ages of 12 and 19 years who were primiparous and were currently pregnant or had delivered within the past 3 months. Results: Adolescents identified three main influences on infant feeding decisions and practices: (a) their perceptions of the benefits of breastfeeding, (b) their perceptions of the problems with breastfeeding, and (c) influential people. In this study, teens reported no single influence which determined infant feeding choices. The decision to breastfeed was a dynamic process. Teens recognized that breastfeeding offered many benefits including facilitating maternal–child bonding and promoting the baby's health, but concern was raised regarding a potential for excessive attachment between teen mother and baby. Fear of pain, embarrassment with public exposure, and unease with the act of breastfeeding acted as barriers for teenagers who were considering breastfeeding. Teenagers discussed the breast pump as a strategy in dealing with these barriers. The adolescents' mothers continued to be an important influence. Conclusions: The ranges of perceptions and influences that minority adolescent mothers have identified as affecting their infant feeding choices, illustrated and explained in the teens' own words, are helpful to health care providers as they counsel teen mothers about infant feeding options.
Low-rank + sparse (L+S) reconstruction for accelerated dynamic MRI with seperation of background and dynamic components

L+S matrix decomposition finds the low-rank (L) and sparse (S) components of a matrix M by solving the following convex optimization problem: min‖L‖*L+S matrix decomposition finds the low-rank (L) and sparse (S) components of a matrix M by solving the following convex optimization problem: ‖L ‖* + λ‖S‖1, subject to M=L+S, where ‖L‖* is the nuclear-norm or sum of singular values of L and ‖S‖1 is the 11-norm| or sum of absolute values of S. This work presents the application of the L+S decomposition to reconstruct incoherently undersampled dynamic MRI data as a superposition of a slowly or coherently changing background and sparse innovations. Feasibility of the method was tested in several accelerated dynamic MRI experiments including cardiac perfusion, time-resolved peripheral angiography and liver perfusion using Cartesian and radial sampling. The high acceleration and background separation enabled by L+S reconstruction promises to enhance spatial and temporal resolution and to enable background suppression without the need of subtraction or modeling.
Evidence for Triplicate Genes for Alcohol Dehydrogenase in Hexaploid Wheat

Abstract The alcohol dehydrogenase zymogram phenotypes of 40 wheat strains, each possessing a distinctive chromosomal constitution, were determined. Genes involved in the production of alcohol dehydrogenase were located on the beta arm of chromosome 4A and on chromosomes 4B and 4D. The results support the hypothesis that the active alcohol dehydrogenase isozymes are dimers composed of the six possible combinations of subunits coded by triplicate structural genes.
Career Identity Among Community College Students

Career identity development is salient in adolescence and young adulthood, but little research has assessed career identity in populations other than four-year college students. Context should be considered when examining career identity, and to address this gap in the literature, the current study examined the extent to which parental support for career, work experience, and career decision self-efficacy (CDSE) influenced career identity evaluation (i.e., engaging in in-depth career exploration and identification with one's career) in a sample of community college students. Results showed that parental support for career was predictive of CDSE, and CDSE was predictive of career identity evaluation, which suggests parental support for career indirectly affects career identity evaluation through CDSE. In contrast to expectations, work experience was not associated with CDSE or career identity evaluation. Findings suggest differences in career identity development for two-year community college and four-yea...
Monitoring changes in membrane polarity, membrane integrity, and intracellular ion concentrations in Streptococcus pneumoniae using fluorescent dyes

Membrane depolarization and ion fluxes are events that have been studied extensively in biological systems due to their ability to profoundly impact cellular functions, including energetics and signal transductions. While both fluorescent and electrophysiological methods, including electrode usage and patch-clamping, have been well developed for measuring these events in eukaryotic cells, methodology for measuring similar events in microorganisms have proven more challenging to develop given their small size in combination with the more complex outer surface of bacteria shielding the membrane. During our studies of death-initiation in Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), we wanted to elucidate the role of membrane events, including changes in polarity, integrity, and intracellular ion concentrations. Searching the literature, we found that very few studies exist. Other investigators had monitored radioisotope uptake or equilibrium to measure ion fluxes and membrane potential and a limited number of studies, mostly in Gram-negative organisms, had seen some success using carbocyanine or oxonol fluorescent dyes to measure membrane potential, or loading bacteria with cell-permeant acetoxymethyl (AM) ester versions of ion-sensitive fluorescent indicator dyes. We therefore established and optimized protocols for measuring membrane potential, rupture, and ion-transport in the Gram-positive organism S. pneumoniae. We developed protocols using the bis-oxonol dye DiBAC4(3) and the cell-impermeant dye propidium iodide to measure membrane depolarization and rupture, respectively, as well as methods to optimally load the pneumococci with the AM esters of the ratiometric dyes Fura-2, PBFI, and BCECF to detect changes in intracellular concentrations of Ca(2+), K(+), and H(+), respectively, using a fluorescence-detection plate reader. These protocols are the first of their kind for the pneumococcus and the majority of these dyes have not been used in any other bacterial species. Though our protocols have been optimized for S. pneumoniae, we believe these approaches should form an excellent starting-point for similar studies in other bacterial species.
Evolution of the hemagglutinin of equine H3 influenza viruses

Abstract The evolution of the hemagglutinin (HA) of equine H3 influenza viruses was studied by analysis of nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences, as well as reactivity of the HA molecule to ferret antisera and monoclonal antibodies. The evolutionary tree constructed from the nucleotide sequences clearly illustrated that the HA of equine H3 influenza viruses evolved in a single lineage, as has been shown for human influenza A viruses. Comparison of the nucleotide sequences of the HA genes of human, swine, avian, and equine viruses showed that the equine strains have evolved independently, without recent introduction of HA genes from other species. By contrast, the results of antigenic analysis indicated that equine H3 influenza viruses include multiple, cocirculating strains. This discrepancy suggests that antigenic analysis of viral proteins should be used with caution in studies of evolutionary pathways.
The Role of Export Cropping in Less Developed Countries

Discussions about agricultural exports from poor countries (LDCs) often involve two diametrically opposed positions: those that view exports along with agribusiness and associated phenomena as causing most of the problems of poor countries; and those that believe not only in an export orientation for the less developed countries (LDCs), but that agricultural, raw material, and food exports hold a key place in the economic development of many of them. At the outset, I should like to recognize the danger of generalizing because of the diversity of LDCs. Developing countries vary greatly in size, resource endowments, economic and political systems, policies, and economic stability, for example. This
Persistent eleation of urinary free cortisol and loss of circannual periodicity in recovered depressive patients

Abstract By comparing a group of 8 normal subjects with 7 recovered depressive patients who had been dexamethasome suppression test (DST) monsuppressors while depressed, the following defferences were identified: (1) mean urinary free cortisol (UFC) levels were significantly higher for recovered depressive Patients than for controls in the summer and fall as well as for the year; (2) patients who had recovered from depression lost their circannual pattern of cortisol excretion; and (3) there was a positive correlation between depressive symptoms as reflected on the Back Depression Inventory and UFS levels in recovered patients but not controls. The elevated UFC levels in depressed patients with DST nonsuppression represent the first trait marker which persists over time. The implications of the close association between UFC Levels and depressive symtoms is discussed.
The Antiandrogenic Action of 4–Androsten–3–one–17β– Carboxylic Acid and Its Methyl Ester on Hamster Flank Organ1

4–Androsten–3–one–17β–carboxylic acid (17βC), an inhibitor of testosterone 5α–reductase, as discovered in our enzymic studies of human skin, was tested for its antiandrogenic potency in the hamster flank organ, which is an androgen—dependent sebaceous structure. The organ in the female animals enlarged in size and increased in pigmentation after topical application of testosterone propionate, 4 μg per day for 2 to 3 weeks. This response was completely inhibited by the concomitant application of 17βC or its methyl ester (400 μg per day). Topical application of 5α–dihydrotestosterone (DHT, 4 jig per day) also caused the enlargement of the flank organ, but the action of DHT was not inhibited by 17βC. Incubation of [14C] testosterone with homogenates of the flank organ produced DHT and androstane–3α,17β–diol (ADIOL) as the major metabolites. The formation of these two 5asteroids was inhibited by 17βC added in the incubation medium. These results indicate that 17βC is an antiandrogen, which acts by inhibition ...
SU-E-J-61: Multi-Criteria Optimization for IGRT Decision Processes.

Purpose: To develop a multi‐criteria optimization framework for image guided radiotherapy decision processes. Methods: An algorithm is proposed for a multi‐criteria framework for the purpose of patient setup verification decision processes. Optimal patient setup shifts and rotations are not always straightforward, particularly for deformable or moving targets of the spine, abdomen, thorax, breast, head and neck and limbs that change as a Result of treatment. The algorithm relies upon dosimetric constraints and objectives to aid in the patient setup and plan delivery such that the patient is positioned or the plan is optimized to maximize tumordose coverage and minimize dose to organs at risk while allowing for daily clinical changes. A simple 1D model, a lung lesion are presented and a spine lesion. Results: The algorithm delivers a multi‐criteria optimization framework allowing for clinical decisions to accommodate patient target variation which make setup decisions less straightforward. With dosimetric considerations, optimal patient positions and plan parameters can be derived. Conclusions: A multi‐criteria framework is demonstrated to aid in the patient setup and determine the most appropriate daily position considering dosimetric goals. Future implementations include optimizations relying upon multiple plans, field parameters, and other dose metrics (TCP, NTCP, EUD, etc).
AlxGa1−xN for solar-blind UV detectors

Abstract There has been a growing interest in the development of solar-blind, ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors for use in a variety of applications, including early missile threat warning, flame monitoring, UV radiation monitoring and chemical/biological reagent detection. The Al x Ga 1− x N material system has emerged as the most promising approach for such devices. However, the control of the material quality and the device technology are still rather immature. We report on the metalorganic chemical vapor deposition of high quality AlGaN thin films on sapphire substrates over a wide range of Al concentrations. The quality of these AlGaN materials was verified through a demonstration of high performance visible and solar-blind UV p–i–n photodiodes with peak cutoff wavelengths ranging from 227 to 364 nm. External quantum efficiencies for these devices reached as high as 69% with over five orders rejection ratio from the peak to visible wavelengths. For the development of UV photodiode arrays, back illuminated photodiodes were also fabricated and measured. External quantum efficiencies of up to 15% were achieved with rejection ratios greater than four orders of magnitude, demonstrating the feasibility of AlGaN, solar-blind devices for use in photodetector array applications.
On the Prediction of Cavitation in Dimples Using a Mass-Conservative Algorithm

The Floberg―Jakobsson―Olsson cavitation theory is implemented using a mass-conservative algorithm to accurately predict the behavior of cavitation in flat surfaces enhanced with dimples. The multigrid method is used to accelerate the convergence speed. Comparison is made on different cavitation theories. The results reveal that the load-carrying capacity of dimple-enhanced surfaces is limited under the simulated conditions.
Mutuality as an antidote to rent-seeking Shariah arbitrage in Islamic finance

Islamic finance is a prohibitions-driven industry, which aims primarily to circumvent the canonical Islamic prohibitions of riba and gharar. The concepts of riba and gharar may best be understood as unbundled sales of credit and risk, respectively. An obvious solution is to adopt mutual structures for financial intermediaries of credit (e.g., banks) and risk (e.g., insurance companies), as early experiments in Islamic finance had apparently done. However, growth in Islamic finance over the past three decades has been led by rent-seeking Shariah arbitrageurs, whose efforts continue to be focused on synthesizing contemporary financial products and services from classical nominate contracts, without regard to corporate structure of financial institutions. In this article, I argue that mutuality should be given back its central role in our discourse on Islamic finance. In particular, I argue that mutuality in intermediation of credit and risk can assist significantly in implementing the substance of Shariah as well as its forms, including the financial empowerment of Islamic financial customers (be they Muslims or otherwise) to face the challenging domination of Islamic finance by international financial behemoths. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Estimation of visibility from satellite imagery

This work examines methods for estimating visibility from satellite imagery, which employ information from the spatial and frequency domains. Properties of luminance and contrast images are derived and compared in both domains. In the past, contrast has traditionally been employed to measure the effects of atmospheric attenuation on visibility. However, the derived results show that the luminance image in either domain contains all the necessary information to calculate standard visibility parameters. Two methods are presented which estimate representative parameters.
Thermodynamic and transport properties of RSn2 (R=Tb-Tm, Lu, Y) single crystals

Abstract We report the anisotropic magnetization, heat capacity and resistivity measurements for isostructural RSn 2 (R=Tb–Tm, Lu, Y) single crystals. The R=Tb–Tm compounds exhibit long range antiferromagnetic ordering with T N ranging from 26.3 K to 3.6 K. An additional incommensurate-to-commensurate transition at a lower critical temperature T 1 is observed for R=Tb–Ho. Field-induced metamagnetic transitions have also been observed for all magnetic rare earth compounds. The resistivity has a typical metallic character with a relatively high residual resistivity ratio. Both the AFM ordering temperature and spin disordered resistivity scale with the de Gennes factor. The magnetic heat capacity data indicate partially lifted ground state degeneracies associated with crystal electric field splitting.
Utilization of Pb-free solders in MEMS packaging

Soldering of components within a package plays an important role in providing electrical interconnection, mechanical integrity and thermal dissipation. MEMS packages present challenges that are more complex than microelectronic packages because they are far more sensitive to shock and vibration and also require precision alignment. Soldering is used at two major levels within a MEMS package: at the die attach level and at the component attach level. Emerging environmental regulations worldwide, notably in Europe and Japan, have targeted the elimination of Pb usage in electronic assemblies, due to the inherent toxicity of Pb. This has provided the driving force for development and deployment of Pb-free solder alloys. A relatively large number of Pb-free solder alloys have been proposed by various researchers and companies. Some of these alloys have also been patented. After several years of research, the solder alloy system that has emerged is based on Sn as a major component. The electronics industry has identified different compositions for different specific uses, such as wave soldering, surface mount reflow, etc. The factors that affect choice of an appropriate Pb-free solder can be divided into two major categories, those related to manufacturing, and those related to long term reliability and performance.
Efficacy of phytol-derived diterpenoid immunoadjuvants over alum in shaping the murine host's immune response to Staphylococcus aureus.

Abstract The ubiquitous gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus occupies a unique niche in humans for its ability to survive both as a commensal and a life-threatening pathogen. Its complex relationship with the host and its ability to engender a throng of virulence factors, have hindered the development of a successful vaccine against it. The use of immunoadjuvants to enhance host immunity and prevent the shift from commensalism to pathogenicity is a rational approach for containing infection. The objective of this study was to understand the mechanisms by which alum and two phytol-derived immunoadjuvants, phytanol (PHIS-01) 1 and phytanyl chloride (PCl) 2 shape the interaction between S. aureus and its murine host. We studied the effects of the phytol derivatives, relative to alum, on the induction of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, recruitment of CD11b+ cells, generation of specific anti-S. aureus antibodies and in vitro clearance of S. aureus. Our results showed that both PHIS-01 and PCl were stronger inducers of protective cytokines IL-17 and IL-1β than alum, and far exceeded alum in enhancing anti-S. aureus antibody response. However, both alum and the phytol derivatives (particularly PCl) promoted efficient recruitment of CD11b+ cells. Furthermore, PHIS-01, alum and to a lesser extent, PCl were able to up-regulate the expression of key inflammation-related genes that were highly down-regulated by S. aureus alone. In vitro killing assays showed that both PHIS-01 and PCl were far more potent than alum in promoting S. aureus clearance; this indicated their efficiency in shaping an effective anti-S. aureus immune microenvironment. In summary, our study provides evidence for the better effectiveness of phytol-derived immunoadjuvants over alum in enhancing anti-S. aureus immunity.
Projections from the paratrigeminal nucleus and the medullary and spinal dorsal horns to the peribrachial area in the cat

Abstract The projections from the medullary and spinal dorsal horns to the dorsolateral pons were investigated in the cat utilizing both the retrograde and anterograde transport of a wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish peroxidase complex and the retrograde transport of the fluorescent dyes Fast Blue and Nuclear Yellow. After injections of wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish peroxidase into the area surrouncling the brachium conjunctivum, numerous neurons were labeled ipsilaterally near levels of the obex in the paratrigeminal nucleus. Such neurons were located in connected pockets of neuropil located within the spinal trigeminal tract and along its medial edge. Most of the neurons labeled in the dorsal horns after such injections were found in lamina I. Those found in the medullary dorsal horn were mostly ipsilateral to the injection while those in the spinal dorsal horn were found bilaterally. Some labeled neurons were also found in lamina V of both the medullary and spinal dorsal horns bilaterally. When the injection was centered in either the medial parabrachial nucleus or the Kolliker-Fuse nucleus, a greater number of neurons were labeled ipsilaterally in lamina V of the medullary dorsal horn. Since neurons in lamina I of the medullary dorsal horn also project to the medial thalamus, fluorescent dyes were used to determine if the same neuron might project to both targets. Fast Blue was first injected into either the peribrachial area or the medial thalamus. After an appropriate period. Nuclear Yellow was injected into that target not injected first with Fast Blue. The injection of Nuclear Yellow was always placed on the side of the brain opposite to the first injection. Both dyes were transported retrogradely and were found in neurons located in lamina I of the medullary dorsal horn. However, no double-labeled neurons were seen. In general those labeled after injections of the medial thalamus were more superficial than those labeled after injections of the dorsolateral pons. The anterograde transport of wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish peroxidase was used to determine the termination of the projections from neurons in the medullary dorsal horn and the cervical spinal cord to the peribrachial area. After injections into these areas a moderate to sparse labeling of the lateral parabrachial nucleus and the Kolliker-Fuse nucleus was seen. It was mostly ipsilateral in cases with injections of the medullary dorsal horn but was bilateral following injections into the cervical enlargement. Dense labeling was noted in the medial parabrachial nucleus and the Kolliker-Fuse nucleus ipsilaterally but only after injections into the rostral parts of the medullary dorsal horn.
The Morality of Corporate Downsizing

Perhaps nothing in business is more sacrosanct than the freedom of asso ciation implied in being able to choose one's business partners and associ ates. Indeed, this "freedom" seems almost to define business. It means that as long as one does not discriminate on the basis of gender, religion, and so on, one can hire, fire, and buy "at will." It comes with some surprise, then, that we find this freedom of association being undermined and attacked through moral arguments against downsizing. John Orlando argues that downsizing harms employees and, hence, is "very often morally wrong" (Orlando, 2003, p. 32). It is impossible to say beforehand exactly which acts of downsizing will be permissible because "business managers will need to examine the actual situations of their share holders and workers, as well as that of the company . ..." (p. 45). But, in general, Orlando thinks "an act of downsizing that prevents the collapse of the corporation can be justified ...," and perhaps no other (p. 45). Robert Miller argues that:
6 The spectrum of skin, mucosa and other extra-articular manifestations

The seronegative spondyloarthropathies appear to be the genetically predisposed host's clinical expression to acute, subacute or chronic reaction to the invasion by environmental microorganisms. In the ensuing days or weeks, depending on the infectious load, clinical manifestations may occur ranging from constitutional complaints such as fever, to a variety of symptoms and/or signs related to the portal of entry—intestinal, genitourinary or respiratory. Within weeks or months, the initial or other target organs, such as the mucocutaneous, ocular and cardiovascular systems, may develop an acute reaction of greater or lesser specificity regarding the triggering agent (oral ulcers, circinate balanitis, erythema nodosum, acute anterior uveitis, pericarditis, heart blocks). Lastly, many years later, a minority of patients, probably those with a large genetic component, exhibit a spectrum of clinical manifestations related to those organs, with a chronic or recurrent course. Acute clinical manifestations—reactive arthritis—are prominent in the initial phase of the clinical spectrum, while chronic manifestations—ankylosing spondylitis—are seen at the other end of the spectrum.
RINGS AND PSEUDORINGS AS TRACERS OF GALACTIC RESONANCES

The inner, outer, and nuclear rings and pseudorings of early to intermediate Hubble type spiral galaxies offer the best evidence for the detectability of specific orbit resonances in normal galaxies. Here I briefly summarize my work on the statistical and morphological properties of outer rings and pseudorings, and how these properties relate the rings to the outer Lindblad resonance.
Mitochondrial off targets of drug therapy

The bioenergetic features of mitochondria have long been exploited in the design of pharmacological agents suited to accomplish a desired physiological effect; uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation to induce weight loss, for example. However, more recent experience demonstrates mitochondria to be unintended off targets of other drug therapies and responsible, at least in part, for the dose-limiting adverse events associated with a large array of pharmaceuticals. Review of the fundamentals of mitochondrial molecular biology and bioenergetics reveals a multiplicity of off targets that can be invoked to explain drug-induced mitochondrial failure. It is this redundancy of mitochondrial off targets that complicates identification of discrete mechanisms of toxicity and confounds QSAR-based design of new small molecules devoid of this potential for mitochondrial toxicity. The present review article briefly reviews the molecular biology and biophysics of mitochondrial bioenergetics, which then serves as a platform for identifying the various potential off targets for drug-induced mitochondrial toxicity.
Nonarrhythmogenicity of therapeutic cryothermic lesions of the myocardium.

Abstract There is increasing interest in the application of surgical methods to the treatment of refractory ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT). Cryothermic ablation is one of the more promising techniques. However, there is clinical concern that a cryothermic lesion may lead to later arrhythmias. Previous studies have shown that dogs with nonhomogeneous, transmural infarctions are susceptible to VT initiation using programmed electrical stimulation (PES). The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of inducing VT in dogs with transepicardial cryothermic myocardial damage (Group A) versus dogs with nonhomogeneous transmural infarctions resulting from 2-hr occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and subsequent reperfusion (Group B). Twelve dogs in each group were studied 10–14 days later using PES with unipolar cathodal ventricular pacing and two ventricular extrastimuli. Initiation of VT was attempted from at least six normal intramyocardial sites in each dog along the distribution of the LAD and in close proximity (⩽1 cm) to areas of chronically cryoablated damaged tissue. All dogs survived the initial procedure. VT was not inducible in any dog in Group A. Histological as well as electrophysiological evaluation, including determination of regional excitability thresholds and refractory periods employing strength-interval curves, revealed that all of the Group A dogs had homogeneous transmural infarcts with variable subendocardial sparing. In conclusion (1) cryothermal injury produces homogeneous damage; and (2) the lesion produced is not arrhythmogenic at 7–14 days.
Recombinant α1-proteinase inhibitor blocks antigen- and mediator-induced airway responses in sheep

α1-Proteinase inhibitor (α1-PI) is a natural serine protease inhibitor. Although mainly thought to protect the airways from neutrophil elastase, α1-PI may also regulate the development of airway hy...
Dynamic path planning for a mobile automaton with limited information on the environment

The problem of path planning is studied for the case of a mobile robot moving in an environment filled with obstacles whose shape and positions are not known. Under the accepted model, the automaton knows its own and the target coordinates, and has a "sensory" feedback which provides it with local information on its immediate surroundings. Ibis information is shown to be sufficient to guarantee reaching a global objective (the target), while generating reasonable (if not optimal) paths. A lower bound on the length of paths generated by any algorithm operating with uncertainty is formulated, and two nonheuristic path planning algorithms are described. In the algorithms, motion planning is done continuously (dynamically), based on the automaton's current position and on its feedback. The effect of additional sources of information (e.g., from a vision sensor) on the outlined approach is discussed.
Hemoptysis in a 38-Year-Old Woman Receiving an Oral Contraceptive

A 38-year-old woman presented with intermittent chest pain and hemoptysis of 1 week in duration producing less than a cup of blood throughout the week. She denied constitutional symptoms dyspnea or orthopnea. Her medical history was unremarkable. She was receiving oral contraceptives and smoked cigarettes. On physical examination she was afebrile. Bronchial breath sounds and crackles were audible at the left base. The rest of her examination was negative. Remarkable initial laboratory data demonstrated a hematocrit of 51% total bilirubin of 1.4 mg/dL and room air arterial Pao2 of 100 mm Hg and Pco2 of 36 mm Hg. ECG and cardiac enzymes did not suggest myocardial injury. Chest radiography revealed a questionable developing density in the left infrahilar region. Spiral CT showed an aberrant vessel off the left side of the descending aorta with some consolidation in the left lower lobe. No filling defect in the pulmonary circulation suggestive of an embolus was seen. (excerpt)
The simulation power of automod

Decision making in industry continues to become more complicated. Customers are more demanding, competition is more fierce, and costs for labor and raw materials continue to rise. Managers need state-of-the-art tools to help in planning, design, and operations of their facilities. Simulation provides a virtual factory where ideas can be tested and performance improved. The AutoMod product suite from Applied Materials has been used on thousands of projects to help engineers and managers make the best decisions possible. AutoMod supports hierarchical model construction. This architecture allows users to reuse model objects in other models, decreasing the time required to build a model. In addition, recent enhancements to Automod's material handling template systems have increased modeling accuracy and ease-of-use. These latest advances have helped make AutoMod one of the most widely used simulation software packages.