cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evolution of the Size and Functional Areas of the Human Brain

The human brain is one of the most intricate, complicated, and impressive organs ever to have evolved. Understanding its evolution requires integrating knowledge from a variety of disciplines in the natural and social sciences. Four areas of research are particularly important to this endeavor. First, we need to understand basic principles of brain evolution that appear to operate across broad classes of organisms. Second, we need to understand the ways in which human brains differ from the brains of our closest living relatives. Third, clues from the fossil record may allow us to outline the manner in which these differences evolved. Finally, studies of brain structure/function relationships are critical for us to make behavioral sense of the evolutionary changes that occurred. This review highlights important questions and work in each of these areas.
Galaxy Formation in Triaxial Halos: Black Hole-Bulge-Dark Halo Correlation

The masses of supermassive black holes (SBHs) show correlations with bulge properties in disk and elliptical galaxies. We study the formation of galactic structure within flat-core, mildly triaxial halos and show that these correlations can be understood within the framework of a baryonic component modifying the orbital structure in the underlying potential. In particular, we find that terminal properties of bulges and their central SBHs are constrained by the destruction of box orbits in the harmonic cores of dark halos and the emergence of progressively less eccentric loop orbits there. SBH masses, M•, should exhibit a tighter correlation with bulge velocity dispersions, σB, than with bulge masses, MB, in accord with observations, if there is a significant scatter in the MH-σH relation for the halo. In the context of this model the observed M•-σB relation implies that halos should exhibit a Faber-Jackson type relationship between their masses and velocity dispersions. The most important prediction of our model is that halo properties determine the bulge and SBH parameters. The model also has important implications for galactic morphology and the process of disk formation.
Ultrafast optical wide field microscopy

An ultrafast optical microscope capable of rapidly and sensitively acquiring wide field optical images with sub-100 femtosecond temporal resolution and micrometer spatial resolution is demonstrated for the first time.
Performance-driven mapping for CPLD architectures

We present a performance-driven programmable logic array mapping algorithm (PLAmap) for complex programmable logic device architectures consisting of a large number of PLA-style logic cells. The primary objective of the algorithm is to minimize the depth of the mapped circuit. We also develop several techniques for area reduction, including threshold control of PLA fanouts and product terms, slack-time relaxation, and PLA packing. We compare PLAmap with a previous algorithm TEMPLA (Anderson and Brown 1998) and a commercial tool Altera Multiple Array MatriX (MAX) + PLUS II (Altera Corporation 2000) using Microelectronics Center of North Carolina (MCNC) benchmark circuits. With a relatively small area overhead, PLAmap reduces circuit depth by 50% compared to TEMPLA and reduces circuit delay by 48% compared to MAX + PLUS II v9.6.
Robust properties of periodic discrete and multirate systems

For discrete periodic and multirate systems new bounds are derived for three different robustness problems: disturbance attenuation, and stability with time-varying structured and unstructured parameter variations. These results generalize the single rate results to allow multirate capability. >
Examining the impacts of residential self-selection on travel behavior: A focus on methodologies

Numerous studies have found that suburban residents drive more and walk less than residents in traditional neighborhoods. What is less well understood is the extent to which the observed patterns of travel behavior can be attributed to the residential built environment itself, as opposed to the prior self-selection of residents into a built environment that is consistent with their predispositions toward certain travel modes and land use configurations. To date, most studies addressing this attitudinal self-selection issue fall into seven categories: direct questioning, statistical control, instrumental variables models, sample selection models, joint discrete choice models, structural equations models, and longitudinal designs. This paper reviews and evaluates these alternative approaches with respect to this particular application (a companion paper focuses on the empirical findings of 28 studies using these approaches). We identify some advantages and disadvantages of each approach, and note the difficulties in actually quantifying the absolute and/or relative extent of the true influence of the built environment on travel behavior. Although time and resource limitations are recognized, we recommend usage of longitudinal structural equations modeling with control groups, a design which is strong with respect to all causality requisites.
The bits and flops of the n-hop multilateration primitive for node localization problems

The recent advances in MEMS, embedded systems and wireless communication technologies are making the realization and deployment of networked wireless microsensors a tangible task. Vital to the success of wireless microsensor networks is the ability of microsensors to ``collectively perform sensing and computation''. In this paper, we study one of the fundamental challenges in sensor networks, node localization. The collaborative multilateration presented here, enables ad-hoc deployed sensor nodes to accurately estimate their locations by using known beacon locations that are several hops away and distance measurements to neighboring nodes. To prevent error accumulation in the network, node locations are computed by setting up and solving a global non-linear optimization problem. The solution is presented in two computation models, centralized and a fully distributed approximation of the centralized model. Our simulation results show that using the fully distributed model, resource constrained sensor nodes can collectively solve a large non-linear optimization problem that none of the nodes can solve individually. This approach results in significant savings in computation and communication, that allows fine-grained localization to run on a low cost sensor node we have developed.
Sparsity and incoherence in compressive sampling

We consider the problem of reconstructing a sparse signal x 0 2 R n from a limited number of linear measurements. Given m randomly selected samples of Ux 0 , where U is an orthonormal matrix, we show that ‘1 minimization recovers x 0 exactly when the number of measurements exceeds m Const ·µ 2 (U) ·S · logn, where S is the number of nonzero components in x 0 , and µ is the largest entry in U properly normalized: µ(U) = p n · maxk,j |Uk,j|. The smaller µ, the fewer samples needed. The result holds for “most” sparse signals x 0 supported on a fixed (but arbitrary) set T. Given T, if the sign of x 0 for each nonzero entry on T and the observed values of Ux 0 are drawn at random, the signal is recovered with overwhelming probability. Moreover, there is a sense in which this is nearly optimal since any method succeeding with the same probability would require just about this many samples.
Analysis and synthesis of a class of discrete-time neural networks described on hypercubes

A qualitative analysis is presented for a class of synchronous discrete-time neural networks defined on hypercubes in the state space. Analysis results are utilized to establish a design procedure for associative memories to be implemented on the present class of neural networks. To demonstrate the storage ability and flexibility of the synthesis procedure, several specific examples are considered. The design procedure has essentially the same desirable features as the results of J. Li et al. (1988, 1989) for continuous-time neural networks. For a given system dimension, networks designed by the present method may have the ability to store more patterns (as asymptotically stable equilibria) than corresponding discrete-time networks designed by other techniques. The design method guarantees the storage of all the desired patterns as asymptotically stable equilibrium points. The present method provides guidelines for reducing the number of spurious states and for estimating the extent of the patterns' domains of attraction. The present results provide a means of implementing neural networks by serial processors and special digital hardware. >
Improving Nurse-Physician Communication and Satisfaction in the Intensive Care Unit With a Daily Goals Worksheet

Objective To evaluate the effect of a standardized worksheet on physicians' and nurses' perceptions of their understanding of goals of care and on patients' length of stay in an intensive care unit. Methods A worksheet was completed daily during multidisciplinary rounds and was posted at each bedside in the medical intensive care unit at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York. Information recorded included tests or procedures, medications, sedation, analgesia, catheters, consultations, nutrition, mobilization, family discussions, consents, and disposition. Attending physicians, residents, and nurses completed a questionnaire before implementation of the worksheet and 3 times afterwards. Responses were scored on a 5-point scale (1 = understand nothing, 5 = completely understand). Continuous variables were analyzed by using a t test; categorical variables, by using a chi(2) test. Results Before the worksheet was implemented, scores for understanding goals were 3.9 for nurses and 4.6 for physicians. Scores increased to 4.8 for nurses (P = .001) and 4.9 for physicians (P = .03) 6 weeks later, an improvement that remained at 9 months. Both groups showed significant improvement in communication scores that lasted for 9 months. Most responders wanted to continue using the worksheet. During the study, the mean stay in the unit was 4.3 days, down from 6.4 days for the analogous 9-month period in the preceding year (P= .02). Conclusion Nurses' and physicians' perceptions of their understanding of the goals of care and of communication between them were improved and stays in the unit were shortened when the worksheet was used.
CF6-50 Short Core Exhaust Nozzle

The General Electric CF6-50 engine nacelle was originally equipped with both fan nozzle and core nozzle thrust reversers. Many airline operators later deactivated the core reverser. Elimination of the core reverser enabled design changes to be made to help improve performance. A reduction in core nozzle length of approximately 2 ft was possible. This concept, defined as the short core exhaust nozzle, was evaluated in engine ground tests, including performance, acoustic, and endurance tests under the NASA Lewis Engine Component Improvement Program. The test results verified the performance predictions from scale model tests. The short core exhaust nozzle provides an internal cruise SFC reduction of 0.9% without an increase in engine noise. The nozzle hardware successfully completed 1000 flight cycles of endurance testing with no signs of distress.
The effect of experience on Internet auction bidding dynamics

On the basis of the bidding history of a panel of new eBay bidders, we examine the impact of different types of experiences on bidding behavior evolution. Accounting for unobserved bidder heterogeneity, the results indicate that losing experiences make the bidders’ bidding behavior evolve toward the normative predictions of auction theory, in that they submit fewer bids and bid later. Winning experiences, however, do not have such an effect. Moreover, the experience effect pertains to the bidder’s entire previous bidding experience regardless of product categories. We also assess the potential bias introduced by using feedback ratings (compared with actual participation) as experience measures.
Determinants of Experienced Utility: Laws and Implications

Satisfaction in experiencing the future depends on decisions made today. We consider six well-known psychological laws governing satisfaction. The laws capture habit formation and satiation. We show it is possible to formalize these laws by means of a utility model and to derive implications from the laws: wanting versus liking, crescendo, recharge periods, variety seeking, and craving. The discussion combines mathematical propositions, experimental findings in psychology, and time-honored wisdom. We discuss how the sixth law---projection bias---may lead to incorrect predictions of experienced utility and suboptimal life-balance choices.
The trouble with spectroscopy papers

Writing a critique and guide for authors of clinical spectroscopy research papers is a likely way of ensuring that one never sees another of one's own papers published in this field. Nevertheless, it is disappointing, though perhaps predictable, that despite its historical foundations in quantitative spectroscopy, the field has its fair share of findings that are not so obviously reconciled. Here is the view of one author, one referee, and one spectroscopy protagonist about what might be expected of a clinical spectroscopy paper. In addition to novelty, the fundamental criteria for acceptance should be that the conclusions are supported by properly and objectively quantified results, and that sufficient experimental detail is provided so that one skilled in the art could reproduce the study and its findings.
A three-dimensional Navier-Stokes stage analysis of the flow through a compact radial turbine

A steady, three dimensional Navier-Stokes average passage computer code is used to analyze the flow through a compact radial turbine stage. The code is based upon the average passage set of equations for turbomachinery, whereby the flow fields for all passages in a given blade row are assumed to be identical while retaining their three-dimensionality. A stage solution is achieved by alternating between stator and rotor calculations, while coupling the two solutions by means of a set of axisymmetric body forces which model the absent blade row. Results from the stage calculation are compared with experimental data and with results from an isolated rotor solution having axisymmetric inlet flow quantities upstream of the vacated stator space. Although the mass-averaged loss through the rotor is comparable for both solutions, the details of the loss distribution differ due to stator effects. The stage calculation predicts smaller spanwise variations in efficiency, in closer agreement with the data. The results of the study indicate that stage analyses hold promise for improved prediction of loss mechanisms in multi-blade row turbomachinery, which could lead to improved designs through the reduction of these losses.
New developments in natural products-based anti-AIDS research

This review discusses anti-HIV natural products from several compound classes, including terpenoids, coumarins, alkaloids, polyphenols, tannins, and flavonoids. Natural products can provide novel anti-AIDS chemotherapeutic leads that are structurally unique or have new mechanisms of action. The drug discovery and development process proceeds from bioactivity-directed isolation and identification of a promising lead natural product, followed by rational design-based structural modification and structure-activity relationship analyses to optimize the lead compound as a drug candidate. This process is notably exemplified by the discovery of the modified betulinic acid derivative, DSB [PA-457], which is currently in Phase II clinical trial and is the first-in-class HIV maturation inhibitor (MI).
Predictive trellis coded quantization of speech

Trellis-coded quantization (TCQ) is incorporated into a predictive coding structure for encoding sampled speech. The modest complexity of the resulting structure is seen to be a direct consequence of the TCQ formulation. Simulation results are presented for systems using fixed-prediction/fixed-residual encoding, fixed-prediction/adaptive-residual encoding, and adaptive-prediction/adaptive-residual encoding. The performance of predictive TCQ (PTCQ) is compared to that of other waveform coders, and the effects of channel errors on PTCQ performance are discussed. For a fully adaptive 16-kb/s speech coding system, segmental signal-to-noise ratios in the range of 19.1-21.9 dB are obtained for a variety of speakers and test sentences. Reconstructed speech obtained from this system is of excellent communication quality. >
Observing linear dynamics with polynomial output functions

We consider the problem of observing a linear system x = Ax by a scalar polynomial output function. We show that if the null space of A has dimension at most one, then one can always find such an output function which observes the system. We also obtain a lower bound for the degree of the observing output functions.
Predictive residual vector quantization

Presents a new vector quantization technique, called predictive residual vector quantization (PRVQ), which combines the concepts of predictive vector quantization (PVQ) and residual vector quantization (RVQ) to implement a high performance VQ scheme with low search complexity. A major task in the PRVQ design is the joint optimization of the vector predictor and the RVQ codebooks. In order to achieve this, a constrained optimization technique is introduced which is compared with a jointly designed technique and a closed loop design technique. Simulation results show the superiority of the proposed PRVQ scheme over the equivalent RVQ, PVQ and an unconstrained VQ scheme. The proposed PRVQ scheme gives the best performance when the predictor and all the stage quantizers are jointly optimized. >
Asymptotic Deployment Gain: A Simple Approach to Characterize the SINR Distribution in General Cellular Networks

In cellular network models, the base stations are usually assumed to form a lattice or a Poisson point process (PPP). In reality, however, they are deployed neither fully regularly nor completely randomly. Accordingly, in this paper, we consider the very general class of motion-invariant models and analyze the behavior of the outage probability (the probability that the signal-to-interference-plus-noise-ratio (SINR) is smaller than a threshold) as the threshold goes to zero. We show that, remarkably, the slope of the outage probability (in dB) as a function of the threshold (also in dB) is the same for essentially all motion-invariant point processes. The slope merely depends on the fading statistics. Using this result, we introduce the notion of the asymptotic deployment gain (ADG), which characterizes the horizontal gap between the success probabilities of the PPP and another point process in the high-reliability regime (where the success probability is near 1). To demonstrate the usefulness of the ADG for the characterization of the SINR distribution, we investigate the outage probabilities and the ADGs for different point processes and fading statistics by simulations.
Carcinoma in situ of the glottic larynx

Carcinoma in situ (CIS) is part of the histopathologic spectrum of laryngeal disorders where invasive squamous cell carcinoma is the endpoint of cellular disarray. Few reports consider prognostic indicators that predict which lesions become invasive. Forty-one patients with CIS of the glottic larynx were analyzed for risk factors that would predict invasive cancer. Anterior commissure involvement by CIS resulted in 92% conversion to invasive squamous cell cancer compared to 17% of lesions limited to the mobile fold. Epidermal growth factor receptors were also analyzed and were found not to be helpful in predicting invasion. Lesions of the mobile fold should be removed endoscopically and the patient should be observed closely for recurrence. Anterior commissure involvement that is inaccessible to complete laser ablation should be radiated, and the patient should be observed carefully.
Vascular Access in Resuscitation: Is There a Role for the Intraosseous Route?

Intraosseous vascular access is a time-tested procedure which has been incorporated into the 2010 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Intravenous access is often difficult to achieve in shock patients, and central line placement can be time consuming. Intraosseous vascular access, however, can be achieved quickly with minimal disruption of chest compressions. Newer insertion devices are easy to use, making the intraosseous route an attractive alternative for venous access during a resuscitation event. It is critical that anesthesiologists, who are often at the forefront of patient resuscitation, understand how to properly use this potentially life-saving procedure.
The average amount of information lost in multiplication

We show that if X and Y are integers independently and uniformly distributed in the set {1,...,N}, then the information lost in forming their product (which is given by the equivocation H(X,Y|XmiddotY)), is Theta(loglogN). We also prove two extremal results regarding cases in which X and Y are not necessarily independently or uniformly distributed. First, we note that the information lost in multiplication can of course be 0. We show that the condition H(X,Y|XmiddotY)=0 implies 2log2N-H(X,Y)=Omega(loglogN). Furthermore, if X and Y are independent and uniformly distributed on disjoint sets of primes, it is possible to have H(X,Y|XmiddotY)=0 with log2N-H(X) and log2N-H(Y) each O(loglogN). Second, we show that no matter how X and Y are distributed, H(X,Y|XmiddotY)=O(logN/loglogN). Furthermore, there are distributions (in which X and Y are independent and uniformly distributed over sets of numbers having only small and distinct prime factors) for which we have H(X,Y|XmiddotY)=Omega(logN/loglogN)
BeepBeep: Embedded Real-Time Encryption

The BeepBeep algorithm is designed to supply secrecy and integrity for embedded real-time systems. These systems must achieve their required timing performance under all conditions, while operating in a multi-tasking environment with tightly constrained CPU, memory, and bandwidth resources. BeepBeep was designed to be implemented as software on the processors most commonly used for embedded controllers. It uses little program memory, no data memory (its state fits into most processors' register sets), and no inherent message padding (ciphertext is a 1:1 replacement for plaintext). It is significantly faster than existing algorithms (e.g. AES) in this environment and includes mechanisms to support integrity as part of its basic secrecy operation.
Element Derivatives of Sterically Encumbering Terphenyl Ligands

Publisher Summary The use of sterically crowding ligands to manipulate reactivity and to effect the stabilization of previously unknown bonding types, geometries, or electron configurations is one of the major themes of inorganic and organometallic chemistry. This chapter reviews the element derivatives of sterically encumbering terphenyl ligands. Bulky ligands use large organic substituents at a first-row element through which they are bound to a desired site. The precursors to the bulky terphenyl ligands and their derivatives are discussed. Terphenyl derivatives of s -block elements comprise group 1 and group 2 terphenyl derivatives. After the halide starting materials themselves, the alkali metal salts are the most important terphenyl compounds. This is a result of their widespread and almost exclusive use as transfer agents for terphenyl ligands. Main group 2 terphenyl compounds are of potential importance. As their lithium analogues, magnesium derivatives, such as the Grignard reagents have applications as ligand transfer agents. The use of terphenyl ligands may affect the stabilization of multiply bonded or catenated derivatives of the lightest element, beryllium, about which very little is currently known. Terphenyl derivatives of p -block elements include group 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17 terphenyl derivatives. Terphenyl derivatives of d -block and group 12 elements are also described, which comprises transition-metal derivatives.
Demonstration of a stabilized alumina/ethanol colloidal dispersion technique for seeding high temperature air flows

Laser anemometry enables the measurement of complex flow fields via the light scattered from small particles entrained in the flow. In the study of turbomachinery, refractory seed materials are required for seeding the flow due to the high temperatures encountered. In this work we present a pH stabilization technique commonly employed in ceramic processing to obtain stable dispersions for generating aerosols of refractory seed material. By adding submicron alumina particles to a preadjusted pH solution of ethanol, a stable dispersion is obtained which when atomized produces a high quality aerosol. Commercial grade alumina powder is used with a moderate size distribution. Other metal oxide powders in various polar solvents could also be used once the point of zero charge (PH/sub pzc/) of the powder in the solvent has been determined. Laser anemometry measurements obtained using the new seeding technique are compared to measurements obtained using Polystyrene Latex (PSL) spheres as the seed material.
Searching for Experience on the Web: An Empirical Examination of Consumer Behavior for Search and Experience Goods:

Abstract By lowering the costs of gathering and sharing information and offering new ways to learn about products before purchase, the Internet reduces traditional distinctions between search and experience goods. At the same time, differences in the type of information sought for search and experience goods can precipitate differences in the process through which consumers gather information and make decisions online. A preliminary experiment shows that though there are significant differences in consumers' perceived ability to evaluate product quality before purchase between search and experience goods in traditional retail environments, these differences are blurred in online environments. An analysis of the online behavior of a representative sample of U.S. consumers shows that consumers spend similar amounts of time online gathering information for both search and experience goods, but there are important differences in the browsing and purchase behavior of consumers for these two types of goods. In ...
Super Wicked Problems and Climate Change: Restraining the Present to Liberate the Future

Climate change may soon have its “lawmaking moment” in the United States. The inherent problem with such lawmaking moments, however, is just that: they are moments. What Congress and the President do with much fanfare can quickly and quietly slip away in the ensuing years. This is famously so for environmental law. Subsequent legislative amendments, limited budgets, appropriations riders, interpretive agency rulings, massive delays in rulemaking, and simple nonenforcement are more than capable of converting a seemingly uncompromising legal mandate into nothing more than a symbolic aspirational statement. Climate change legislation is especially vulnerable to being unraveled over time for a variety of reasons, but especially because of the extent to which it imposes costs on the short term for the realization of benefits many decades and sometimes centuries later. To be successful over the long term, climate change legislation will need to include institutional design features that insulate programmatic implementation to a
Pumped-storage hydro-turbine bidding strategies in a competitive electricity market

This paper develops optimal pumped-storage unit bidding strategies in a competitive electricity market. Starting from a weekly forecasted market clearing price curve, an algorithm to maximize the profit of a pumped-storage unit considering reserve bids is developed. A comparison between the optimal bidding strategy and a fixed-schedule weekly generating and pumping strategy is provided.
Intrinsic Sex Differences in the Early Growth Hormone Responsiveness of Sex-Specific Genes in Mouse Liver

Sex differences in liver gene expression are dictated by sex differences in circulating GH profiles. Presently, the pituitary hormone dependence of mouse liver gene expression was investigated on a global scale to discover sex-specific early GH response genes that could contribute to sex-specific regulation of downstream GH targets and to ascertain whether intrinsic sex differences characterize hepatic responses to plasma GH stimulation. Global RNA expression analysis identified two distinct classes of sex-specific mouse liver genes: genes subject to positive regulation (class I) and genes subject to negative regulation by pituitary hormones (class II). Genes activated or repressed in hypophysectomized (Hypox) mouse liver within 30-90 min of GH pulse treatment at a physiological dose were identified as putative direct targets of GH action (early response genes). Intrinsic sex differences in the GH responsiveness of a subset of these early response genes were observed. Notably, 45 male-specific genes, including five encoding transcriptional regulators that may mediate downstream sex-specific transcriptional responses, were induced by GH within 30 min in Hypox male but not Hypox female mouse liver. The early GH response genes were enriched in 29 male-specific targets of the transcription factor myocyte enhancer factor 2, whose activation in hepatic stellate cells is associated with liver fibrosis leading to hepatocellular carcinoma, a male-predominant disease. Thus, the rapid activation by GH pulses of certain sex-specific genes is modulated by intrinsic sex-specific factors, which may be associated with prior hormone exposure (epigenetic mechanisms) or genetic factors that are pituitary-independent, and could contribute to sex differences in predisposition to liver cancer or other hepatic patho-physiologies.
A Program for Transition Research

The NASA Transition Study Group was founded in late 1970 to develop and implement a program that would do something constructive toward resolving the many observed anomalies in boundary layer transition data and that might provide some basis for future estimation of transition Reynolds numbers. The group formulated specific experimental programs emphasizing careful and redundant measurements, documentation of the disturbance environment and eliminating, wherever possible, facility induced transition. It recommended continued study of stability characteristics as well as theoretical studies of the coupling of various types of disturbances to boundary layers. This paper describes the nature of the program and its details. The remainder of the papers of this session give some of the results obtained under the program to date.
The Diversity of Debt Crises in Europe

The external debts of the European countries are at the core of the current crises. Generally, the crises are attributed to government budget deficits in excess of the values stated in the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) and the Maastricht Treaty. Proposals for reform involve increasing the powers of the European Union to monitor fiscal policies of the national governments and increasing bank regulation. This chapter seeks to explain the inter-country differences in the debt crisis in Europe. The SGP and the EU focused upon rules concerning government debt ratios and deficit ratios. They ignored the causes of external debt ratios in the entire economy that led to a crisis in the financial markets.
Heterocycle Synthesis Based on Allylic Alcohol Transposition Using Traceless Trapping Groups

Allylic alcohols undergo transposition reactions in the presence of Re2O7 whereby the equilibrium can be dictated by trapping one isomer with a pendent electrophile. Additional ionization can occur when the trapping group is an aldehyde or ketone, thus leading to cyclic oxocarbenium ion formation. Terminating the process through bimolecular nucleophilic addition into the intermediate provides a versatile method for the synthesis of diverse oxygen-containing heterocycles. Understanding the relative rates of the steps in the sequence leads to the design of reactions which create multiple stereocenters with good to excellent levels of control.
Stimulating the Development of Drug Treatments to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia

Cognitive impairment in schizophrenia is a core feature of the illness (i.e., not a result of clinical symptoms or drug treatments) that is related to the daily functioning of patients. Because schizophrenia is associated with poor community functioning, there is considerable interest in finding treatments to improve cognition in schizophrenia in the hopes that such improvement will yield functional benefits. Before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration could consider granting approval to any new drug for improving cognition in schizophrenia, it was first necessary to achieve consensus on the measurements and methods that would be used in clinical trials, as well as neuropharmacological targets. The U.S. National Institute of Mental Health launched an initiative to help address these obstacles to drug approval (MATRICS). This initiative has generated several additional follow-up initiatives including a clinical trial network and consensus projects for other clinical targets, such as negative symptoms. This review describes how an area that was primarily of academic interest (cognition in schizophrenia) became a focus of public health concerns and drug-development policy.
Akt promotes BMP2-mediated osteoblast differentiation and bone development.

Signaling through the IGF-I receptor by locally synthesized IGF-I or IGF-II is crucial for normal skeletal development and for bone remodeling. Osteogenesis is primarily regulated by bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), which activate gene expression programs driven by bone-specific transcription factors. In a mesenchymal stem cell model of osteoblast commitment and differentiation controlled by BMP2, we show that an inhibitor of PI3-kinase or a dominant-negative Akt were as potent in preventing osteoblast differentiation as the IGF binding protein IGFBP5, whereas a Mek inhibitor was ineffective. Conversely, an adenovirus encoding an inducible-active Akt was able to overcome the blockade of differentiation caused by IGFBP5 or the PI3-kinase inhibitor, and could restore normal osteogenesis. Inhibition of PI3-kinase or Akt did not block BMP2-mediated signaling, because the Smad-responsive genes Sox9 and JunB were induced normally under all experimental conditions. When activated during different stages of osteoblast maturation, dominant-negative Akt prevented accumulation of bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and reduced mineralization, and more significantly inhibited the longitudinal growth of metatarsal bones in primary culture by interfering with both chondrocyte and osteoblast development and function. We conclude that an intact IGF-induced PI3-kinase–Akt signaling cascade is essential for BMP2-activated osteoblast differentiation and maturation, bone development and growth, and suggest that manipulation of this pathway could facilitate bone remodeling and fracture repair.
Effect of charged sphere size on electrostatic discharge generated while approaching a stationary object

SUMMARY This study experimentally clarified that changing the size of a charged object affects the characteristics of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) that occurs when a charged object moves toward a stationary, grounded object. The spark lengths and discharge currents were measured as charged, metallic, spherical electrodes of different diameters approached a stationary grounded object at different speeds. The charge voltages of the dc high-voltage power supply were +4.0 kV and +6.5 kV. According to the results, the average spark length tended to shorten with the speed of the spherical electrodes. The change in the average spark length with the speed of the 5.0-mm-diameter spherical electrode was faster than that for the 15.9-mm-diameter spherical electrode. The average peak value of the first peak of the discharge current for the 5.0-mm-diameter spherical electrode was greater than the average value for the 15.9-mm-diameter spherical electrode when the approach speed was greater than 5 mm/s for both spherical electrodes. The peak value, rise time, and rising speed of the first peak of the discharge current also correlate with the spark length, and the correlation can be explained qualitatively an the empirical equation deduced from the resistance formula proposed by Rompe and Weizel.
Determining the impact of the Integrated Triadic Model on TPACK development in preservice teachers

AbstractThis study applied an Integrated Triadic Model (ITM) to a social studies methods course and measured the extent that preservice teachers’ TPACK changed. The study also gathered beliefs about the effectiveness of course activities for developing TPACK. Data collected and analyzed from self-assessment surveys and reflective writings indicated an increase in understanding of the relationships between technologies, instructional strategies, and social studies content. Performance-based data did not support similar growth because of contextual limitations. The application of the ITM created and enhanced course activities that contributed to the development of preservice teachers’ TPACK. The ITM represents a new model for teacher education programs to evaluate and redesign learning experiences that prepare teachers to effectively and appropriately integrate technology.
Corporate Governance Ratings and Firm Performance

We examine the corporate governance ratings provided by three premier US rating agencies and find that summary scores are generally poor predictors of primary and secondary measures of future firm performance. However, some component sub-ratings that focus on the eight key dimensions of dynamic governance structures provide more positive and reliable evidence of their information content in predicting the multiple dimensions of firm performance. These results reflect the recent observations by academic researchers and money managers that it is extremely difficult to distill all of the complex governance mechanisms into a single integrated, yet informative overall score.
Self-contained exponentiation

The traditional implementation for floating-point exponentiation, x raised to the y power, is to compute exp (y ln(x)) using standard subroutines for the logarithm and the exponential function. While it is possible to provide extremely accurate subroutines for these latter functions, we shall shortly see that this is seldom done. Even in those rare cases where excellent subroutines are available, the exponentiation routine, for sound theoretical reasons, is poor. In this paper, we present brief statistics indicative of the quality of these three subroutines in the basic Fortran libraries provided by various manufacturers, a detailed error analysis for exponentiation, and a method for exponentiation via self-contained subroutines.
Fiberwise stable bundles on elliptic threefolds with relative Picard number one

Abstract We show that fiberwise stable vector bundles are preserved by relative Fourier–Mukai transforms between elliptic threefolds with relative Picard number one. Using these bundles we define new invariants of elliptic fibrations, and we relate the invariants of a space with those of a relative moduli space of stable sheaves on it. As a byproduct, we calculate the intersection form of a certain new example of an elliptic Calabi–Yau threefold. To cite this article: A. Caldararu, C. R. Acad. Sci. Paris, Ser. I 334 (2002) 469–472.
Room temperature ionic liquids: new solvents for Schrock's catalyst and removal using polydimethylsiloxane membranes

A room temperature ionic liquid was used as the solvent for metathesis reactions with the Schrock catalyst and a new method to facilitate separation between small molecules and ionic liquids using polydimethylsiloxane thimbles is reported.
Sustainability planning: first, do no harm

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe conventional top‐down planning as applied to land markets – and its limitations.Design/methodology/approach – The paper includes a brief survey of recent literature that sheds light on the argument and that puts property management into the larger context.Findings – Much that is known about positive trends in human wealth and welfare can be ascribed to what might be called bottom‐up planning. Property managers are increasingly part of the latter activity. In light of the trends discussed, the property management activity plays a key part in the ever more important bottom‐up management of land.Originality/value – This paper links the growth of wealth and welfare in our time with the broadening responsibilities of property managers.
A local cell quality metric and variational grid smoothing algorithm

A local cell quality metric is introduced and used to construct a variational functional for a grid smoothing algorithm. A maximum principle is proved and the properties of the local quality measure, which combines element shape and size control metrics, are investigated. Level set contours are displayed to indicate the effect of cell distortion. The approach is demonstrated for meshes of triangles and quadrilaterals in 2D and a test case with hexahedral cells in 3D. Issues such as the use of a penalty for folded meshes and the effect of valence change in the mesh patches are considered.
Integrating Risk Assessment and Life Cycle Assessment: A Case Study of Insulation

Increasing residential insulation can decrease energy consumption and provide public health benefits, given changes in emissions from fuel combustion, but also has cost implications and ancillary risks and benefits. Risk assessment or life cycle assessment can be used to calculate the net impacts and determine whether more stringent energy codes or other conservation policies would be warranted, but few analyses have combined the critical elements of both methodologies In this article, we present the first portion of a combined analysis, with the goal of estimating the net public health impacts of increasing residential insulation for new housing from current practice to the latest International Energy Conservation Code (IECC 2000). We model state-by-state residential energy savings and evaluate particulate matter less than 2.5 microm in diameter (PM2.5), NOx, and SO2 emission reductions. We use past dispersion modeling results to estimate reductions in exposure, and we apply concentration-response functions for premature mortality and selected morbidity outcomes using current epidemiological knowledge of effects of PM2.5 (primary and secondary). We find that an insulation policy shift would save 3 x 10(14) British thermal units or BTU (3 x 10(17) J) over a 10-year period, resulting in reduced emissions of 1,000 tons of PM2.5, 30,000 tons of NOx, and 40,000 tons of SO2. These emission reductions yield an estimated 60 fewer fatalities during this period, with the geographic distribution of health benefits differing from the distribution of energy savings because of differences in energy sources, population patterns, and meteorology. We discuss the methodology to be used to integrate life cycle calculations, which can ultimately yield estimates that can be compared with costs to determine the influence of external costs on benefit-cost calculations.
Repeater insertion in tree structured inductive interconnect

The effects of inductance on repeater insertion in RLC trees is the focus of this paper. An algorithm is introduced to insert and size repeaters within an RLC tree to optimize a variety of possible cost functions such as minimizing the maximum path delay, the skew between branches, or a combination of area, power, and delay. The algorithm has a complexity proportional to the square of the number of possible repeater positions and determines a repeater solution that is close to the global minimum. The repeater insertion algorithm is used to insert repeaters within several copper-based interconnect trees to minimize the maximum path delay based on both an RC model and an RLC model. The two buffering solutions are compared using the AS/X dynamic circuit simulator. It is shown that as inductance effects increase, the area and power consumed by the inserted repeaters to minimize the path delays of an RLC tree decreases. By including inductance in the repeater insertion methodology, the interconnect is modeled more accurately as compared to an RC model, permitting average savings in area, power, and delay of 40.8%, 15.6%, and 6.7%, respectively, for a variety of copper-based interconnect trees from a 0.25 /spl mu/m CMOS technology. The average savings in area, power, and delay increases to 62.2%, 57.2%, and 9.4%, respectively, when using five times faster devices with the same interconnect trees.
Self-consistent analysis of OH-Zeeman observations: too much noise about noise

We have recently re-analysed in a self-consistent way OH-Zeeman observations in four molecular-cloud envelopes and we have shown that, contrary to claims by Crutcher et al., there is no evidence that the mass-to-flux ratio decreases from the envelopes to the cores of these clouds. The key difference between our data analysis and the earlier one by Crutcher et al. is the relaxation of the overly restrictive assumption made by Crutcher et al, that the magnetic field strength is independent of position in each of the four envelopes. In a more recent paper, Crutcher et al. (1) claim that our analysis is not self-consistent, in that it misses a cosine factor, and (2) present new arguments to support their contention that the magnetic field strength is indeed independent of position in each of the four envelopes. We show that the claim of the missing cosine factor is false; that the new arguments contain even more serious problems than the Crutcher et al. original data analysis; and we present new observational evidence, independent of the OH-Zeeman data, that suggests significant variations in the magnetic field strength in the four cloud envelopes.
Evidence-Based Model Checking

This paper shows that different "meta-model-checking" analyses can be conducted efficiently on a generic data structure we call a support set. Support sets may be viewed as abstract encodings of the "evidence" a model checker uses to justify the yes/no answers it computes. We indicate how model checkers may be modified to compute supports sets without compromising their time or space complexity. We also show how support sets may be used for a variety of different analyses of model-checking results, including: the generation of diagnostic information for explaining negative model-checking results; and certifying the results of model checking (is the evidence internally consistent?).
Economic and Business Analysis: Quantitative Methods Using Spreadsheets

Basic Economic and Business Analyses: The Excel Worksheets Total Revenue, Total Cost, and Profits - The Excel Tables Static Analysis in Economics and Business - Excel Graphics Comparative Static Analysis - Name That Range Economic and Business Statistics and Mathematics: Economic Statistics and Regression Analysis - Equations and Formulae Random Numbers and Frequency Distribution - A Large Data Base Future and Present Value Problems with or without Annuity - Decision Problems Linear Algebra and Economic Policy Analysis - Vectors and Matrices Optimization: Production Functions - 3D Graphics Optimization with a Constraint - The Excel Solver Large Data Bases: The State of the World - Sorting, Filtering, Subtotaling, and Pivot Tables Online Resources - The Text Import Wizard Structure of Economics - Flow Charts and Slide Dynamics: Business Cycles and Dynamic Models-Linked Cells Chaos in Classroom - Butterfly Effects.