cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Developing Cost-Effective Data Rescue Schemes to Tackle Disk Failures in Data Centers

Ensuring the reliability of large-scale storage systems remains a challenge, especially when there are millions of disk drives deployed. Post-failure disk rebuild takes much longer time nowadays due to the ever-increasing disk capacity, which also increases the risk of service unavailability and even data loss. In this paper, we present a proactive data protection (PDP) framework in the ZFS file system to rescue data from disks before actual failure onset. By reducing the risk of data loss and mitigating the prolonged disk rebuilds caused by disk failures, PDP is designed to enhance the overall storage reliability. We extensively evaluate the recovery performance of ZFS with diverse configurations, and further explore disk failure prediction techniques to develop a proactive data protection mechanism in ZFS. We further compare the performance of different data protection strategies, including post-failure disk recovery, proactive disk cloning, and proactive data recovery. We propose an analytic model that uses storage utilization and contextual system information to select the best data protection strategy to achieve cost-effective and enhanced storage reliability.
The non-genomic Action of Sex Steroids

The aim of this paper is to discuss novel and rather recent evidence indicating that estradiol and testosterone have rapid actions by interacting with two different, but physiologically and chemically well-characterized proteins: 1) tubulin, a basic component of microtubules and therefore involved in cellular cytoarchitecture and cellular trafficking; and 2) glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), an enzyme involved in glycolysis but also in other important, non-glycolytic functions.
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Shipwreck Trail: A Model for Multiple-Use Resource Management

With the continental United State’s only tropical coral reef, the Florida Keys hold many charms for both recreational and scientific divers. Besides unique biological resources, the Keys are the site of several hundred historic ship sinkings that date as far back as the seventeenth century.
Endometrial cancer and hormone replacement therapy : Appropriate use of progestins to oppose endogenous and exogenous estrogen

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy and the fourth most common cancer overall in women. Many cases are preventable by identifying patients with risk factors and premalignant lesions and using progestins appropriately. This review focuses on the role of primary care providers in preventing and diagnosing endometrial cancer and the appropriate use of replacement therapy to meet the hormonal needs of the patient.
Construction and evaluation of a model for wheelchair propulsion in an individual with tetraplegia

Upper limb overuse injuries are common in manual wheelchair users with spinal cord injury. Patient-specific in silico models enhance experimental biomechanical analyses by estimating in vivo shoulder muscle and joint contact forces. Current models exclude deep shoulder muscles that have important roles in wheelchair propulsion. Freely accessible patient-specific models have not been generated for persons with tetraplegia, who have a greater risk for shoulder pain and injury. The objectives of this work were to (i) construct a freely accessible, in silico, musculoskeletal model capable of generating patient-specific dynamic simulations of wheelchair propulsion and (ii) establish proof-of-concept with data obtained from an individual with tetraplegia. Constructed with OpenSim, the model features muscles excluded in existing models. Shoulder muscle forces and activations were estimated via inverse dynamics. Mean absolute error of estimated muscle activations and fine-wire electromyography (EMG) recordings was computed. Mean muscle activation for five consecutive stroke cycles demonstrated good correlation (0.15-0.17) with fine-wire EMG. These findings, comparable to other studies, suggest that the model is capable of estimating shoulder muscle forces during wheelchair propulsion. The additional muscles may provide a greater understanding of shoulder muscle contribution to wheelchair propulsion. The model may ultimately serve as a powerful clinical tool. Graphical abstract ᅟ.
Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Urolithiasis

Background: Urolithiasis is rare in healthy pediatric patients. All patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have an increased risk of urolithiasis, but this risk is poorly quantified in children. IBD and urolithiasis often present with overlapping clinical symptoms in pediatric populations. The outcomes and hospital course of pediatric IBD patients with urolithiasis are unclear. The objective of this …
Ceftolozane-tazobactam and ceftazidime-avibactam activity against β-lactam-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales clinical isolates from U.S. medical centres

Abstract Background Despite availability of ceftolozane-tazobactam (C/T) and ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA) for several years, the individual spectrum of activity of each agent may not be widely known. We compared the activity of C/T and CZA against convenience samples of 119 extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales and 60 β-lactam-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa clinical isolates collected from three U.S. institutions. Methods Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) for C/T and CZA were determined by broth microdilution. Molecular identification of nine β-lactamase gene targets was conducted for Enterobacterales and P. aeruginosa isolates with increased MICs to C/T or CZA. Results More than 90% of Enterobacterales isolates demonstrated susceptibility to both C/T and CZA, in contrast to the other traditional β-lactam agents tested, which were much less active. The MIC50/90 values were nearly equivalent between agents. The most common β-lactamase genes identified in Enterobacterales isolates with MIC values ≥2 mg/L were the CTX-M-1 group (85%) and CMY-2-like (23%) β-lactamases. Both agents were active against >80% of β-lactam-resistant P. aeruginosa isolates tested, most of which had oprD mutations identified. One P. aeruginosa isolate was positive for a Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase-type gene but remained meropenem-susceptible. The MIC50 values were four-fold lower in favour of C/T (1 mg/L vs. 4 mg/L) against P. aeruginosa. Conclusions Our data suggest that either agent may be a reasonable choice for centres with a high proportion of ESBL producers; however, C/T may have improved activity against P. aeruginosa and may be preferred in institutions with a higher frequency of resistant pseudomonal isolates.
Robotic vs. Thoracoscopic Thymectomy for Thymoma

Minimally invasive approaches to mediastinal surgery have been associated with improved short term outcomes, notably less pain, fewer pulmonary complications, and shorter length of stay, while importantly demonstrating equal long-term oncologic outcomes when compared to traditional open approaches. The comparison has primarily been between median sternotomy and standard thoracoscopic approaches (VATS). The development of robotic surgery has led to an increase in robotic utilization in thoracic surgery overall, and more specifically minimally invasive thymectomy. We sought to assess whether a robotic approach offers any advantages to a VATS approach for thymectomy in patients with encapsulated thymoma. There is very little data specifically comparing these approaches in this patient population. The preponderance of evidence, most of which is from low quality, small retrospective studies, shows a slight advantage for a robotic approach driven by a shorter length of stay and lower conversion rate. This improvement in chest tube duration, conversions, and length of stay was associated with increased costs for the procedure. There were no differences in long-term outcomes seen in any of the studies reviewed.
Evidence for strain rate variation and an elevated transient geothermal gradient during shear zone evolution in the Cordillera Blanca, Peru

Abstract The Cordillera Blanca shear zone (CBSZ) occupies the footwall of the Cordillera Blanca detachment fault, an active low-moderate angle detachment fault extending for ~200 km along the western margin of the Cordillera Blanca in central Peru. Recrystallized quartz paleopiezometry, two-feldspar thermometry on asymmetric strain-induced myrmekite, and structural analysis from the CBSZ provide evidence for shear zone evolution within a transient elevated geotherm during syn-convergent extension. Shear zone width varies by a factor of six along strike, with widths of up to ~400 m within the central segment of the shear zone. Microstructurally-derived strain rates, calculated from quartz paleopiezometry and two-feldspar thermometry results, are on the order of 10−14 to 10−12 s−1 and are broadly consistent with macrostructurally-derived strain rates of 10−14 to 10−13 s−1 calculated from shear zone thickness and previously determined exhumation rates. Within the context of existing thermochronological data, constraints on batholith emplacement, and previously determined offset along the Cordillera Blanca detachment, our data suggest that ductile deformation in the CBSZ occurred within a transient elevated geothermal gradient of at least ~50 °C/km and potentially as high as ~100 °C/km, which deviated from a ~30 °C/km gradient for an unspecified duration of time. We discuss the evolution of the Cordillera Blanca, where observed deformation fabrics are related to strain localization along an exhuming fault as well as thermal weakening from the interplay between faulting and magmatism.
The Process of Team Building Among Content Experts and Methodologists: An Example From an Emergency Medical Services Research Investigation Kick-Off Meeting:

Background:Community-engaged research engages the community in a collaborative manner to improve the local setting and has been increasingly applied to health services research. These complex studi...
Examining the Interpersonal Profiles and Nomological Network Associated with Narcissistic Grandiosity and Narcissistic Vulnerability

Theory and research have consistently shown that pathological narcissism can best be described by 2 phenotypic expressions, narcissistic grandiosity and narcissistic vulnerability. The current study sought to examine the specific types of interpersonal problems reported by those high in narcissistic grandiosity and high in narcissistic vulnerability as well as examine the nomological network associated with these 2 manifestations of narcissism. In a sample of university students who completed self-report measures of pathological narcissism, interpersonal problems, depression, self-esteem, malignant self-regard, self-defeating personality disorder symptoms, and anger, we found that narcissistic grandiosity (n = 108) was associated with one distinct interpersonal profile, for example, being overly intrusive in relationships with others, while narcissistic vulnerability (n = 88) was associated with a wider range of interpersonal problems on the interpersonal circumplex. Using cluster analysis, we found 3 interpersonal subtypes associated with narcissistic vulnerability, an intrusive subtype, a cold subtype, and a socially avoidant subtype. Further examination of group differences showed that the 3 interpersonal subtypes associated with narcissistic vulnerability could also be distinguished based on their experience and expression of anger. This suggests the importance of assessing profiles of interpersonal functioning and anger in narcissistic vulnerability. The clinical implications of our results are discussed.
ANTIBACTERIAL EFFECT OF GNETUM GNEMON L. LEAVES EXTRACT ON STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS

Introduction: Bacterial infections are common among doctors in Indonesia, leading to increased use of antibiotics. Increased use of antibiotics, if not accompanied by rational indication, can increase bacterial resistance. At present, alternative medicine from natural ingredients is widely studied, one of which is the leaves of melinjo (Gnetum gnemon L.). Melinjo leaves are thought to contain antibacterial compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. Staphylococcus aureus is a round Gram-positive bacteria, that forms grape-like clusters. Staphylococcus aureus is a normal flora on the skin and human mucosa but can be opportunistic pathogens that cause mild to severe infections such as sepsis. Pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus can produce hemolysis blood, frozen plasma, and produce various extracellular enzymes and toxins. Purpose: This research aims to study the MIC and MBC of melinjo leaves extract on the growth of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. This research is an experimental study with a posttest control group design. Method: Testing conducted using the microdilution method. Melinjo leaves used were extracted by maceration method using 96% ethanol. Samples were Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 from BBLK Surabaya. Results: extract of melinjo leaves (Gnetum gnemon L.) had MIC on Staphylococcus aureus bacteria at a concentration of 640 mg/ml. MBC was not obtained because the extract of melinjo leaves clotted above 1280 mg/ml concentration. Conclusion: Melinjo leaves extract has an antibacterial effect against Staphylococcus aureus, the MIC is obtained at a concentration of 640 mg/ml, and the MBC cannot be determined.
The Economic Argument for Stakeholder Corporations

The mainstream economic theory of the corporation is written to fit within the neoliberal framework of perfectly efficient markets. The entity itself — the corporation — is hypothesized as simply a site for freely negotiated contracts between rational actors, and the privileges granted to the corporation by public power are erased. As all negotiations between rational actors lead to efficient outcomes, the theory goes, the dominance of shareholders and their exclusive authority in decision-making must be the most efficient structure for corporations. The neoliberal economic theory that underlies shareholder primacy is deeply flawed and does not reflect how corporations actually operate and distribute value between stakeholders. While many economists that the shareholder primacy model is, and always has been, a “natural law” of the market, its dominance in American corporate governance is only decades old — and ultimately, shareholder primacy is a failed economic model. By documenting the economic arguments made to support shareholder primacy and showing why these assumptions do not hold, this article adds to the growing literature on the effects of corporate shareholder primacy. I argue that shareholder primacy should be replaced by a model of “stakeholder corporations,” in which stakeholders collectively engage in corporate governance and own corporate equity.
Midsubstance Hamstring Injuries in the Athlete

The hamstring muscular complex is a group of three muscles in the posterior thigh responsible for hip extension and knee flexion. Midsubstance hamstring injuries occur commonly in the athlete population, especially those who sprint or jump as a part of their sport. Both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for injury have been identified, and several grading schemes exist for stratifying the clinical and radiographic severity of injury. The clinical presentation of acute hamstring injuries is relatively reliable although there is a limited role in imaging for diagnosis. The treatment of midsubstance injuries is predominantly nonoperative and consists of symptom control in the early phase of injury with the ultimate goal of regaining range of motion and strength. The use of eccentric exercises has been shown to reduce the risk of initial injury as well as recurrence, while the achievement of normal or near-normal hamstring strength appears to be an important milestone for return to play.
Measuring Magnetic Field Gradients from Four Point Vector Measurements in Space

The determination of all nine first order spatial gradients requires the knowledge of differences between the magnetic field measurements made simultaneously at (at least) four different points in space. As the first order differences between measurements are typically very small compared to the background field, even small errors resulting from an inadequate knowledge of the orientations, zero levels and scale factors of the magnetometer sensors affect the calculation of field gradients disproportionately and must be corrected with high accuracy. Other sources of error include the noise introduced in the data by propagating waves and pulsations and errors in the knowledge of inter-spacecraft spacing. We will discuss how each of these errors can be minimized by improved data processing techniques and in-flight calibration of the measurements. We first introduce an intra-spacecraft calibration technique suitable for spinning spacecraft which relies on the fact that errors in many of the calibration parameters generate monochromatic signals in the despun data at the first two harmonics of the spin frequency. We develop equations that relate the power in the two harmonics to the calibration parameters. In another procedure called inter-calibration use is made of the fact that ⊇ . B is zero everywhere and ⊇ × is is vanishingly small in certain regions of the magnetosphere. Calibration parameters are sought that minimize measured ⊇ . B and ⊇ × B in those regions.
Potential Impacts of Leakage from Black Rock Reservoir on the Hanford Site Unconfined Aquifer: Initial Hypothetical Simulations of Flow and Contaminant Transport

Errata for report documenting initial scoping calculations investigating the potential impacts on the Hanford unconfined aquifer resulting from leakage from the proposed Black Rock Reservoir to the west. These calculations were performed for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.
Characterizing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreen spray

SynopsisObjective Numerous commercial products contain titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs); however, many of these are not labelled as containing NPs. This study sought to develop an effective means of characterizing TiO2 and ZnO NPs in sunscreen sprays, including the size, shape and composition of the particles as well as their aggregation/agglomeration characteristics. Methods Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) coupled with a window-type microchip K-kit/copper grid and X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to characterize the oxide NPs. Results TME pre-treatment was performed using two approaches: using a conventional copper grid (requiring dilution) and using a K-kit (not requiring dilution). The use of K-kit in conjunction with XRD makes it possible to obtain direct measurements from samples that have not undergone pre-treatment, which could otherwise alter the nature of the samples, such as the degree of agglomeration. XRD was used to obtain information related to particle size and crystal structure. A strong correlation was observed between XRD and TEM measurements. Conclusion The proposed measurement methods were shown to be highly effective in the characterization of oxide NPs in sunscreen sprays, providing consistent information related to NPs and their interactions in the formulations.
A classification approach to multi-biometric score fusion

The use of biometrics for identity verification of an individual is increasing in many application areas such as border/port entry/exit, access control, civil identification and network security. Multi-biometric systems use more than one biometric of an individual. These systems are known to help in reducing false match and false non-match errors compared to a single biometric device. Several algorithms have been used in literature for combining results of more than one biometric device. In this paper we discuss a novel application of random forest algorithm in combining matching scores of several biometric devices for identity verification of an individual. Application of random forest algorithm is illustrated using matching scores data on three biometric devices: fingerprint, face and hand geometry. To investigate the performance of the random forest algorithm, we conducted experiments on different subsets of the original data set. The results of all the experiments are exceptionally encouraging.
Communication Goes Multimodal

Communication depends on the simultaneous receipt of multiple sensory stimuli. The Perspective by Partan and Marler in this week9s issue postulates a new classification system for multimodal sensory signals. Combinations of sensory signals are classified according to the behavioral responses they elicit.
Urocortin3 mediates somatostatin-dependent negative feedback control of insulin secretion

The peptide hormone urocortin3 (Ucn3) is abundantly expressed by mature beta cells, yet its physiological role is unknown. Here we demonstrate that Ucn3 is stored and co-released with insulin and potentiates glucose-stimulated somatostatin secretion via cognate receptors on delta cells. Further, we found that islets lacking endogenous Ucn3 have fewer delta cells, reduced somatostatin content, impaired somatostatin secretion, and exaggerated insulin release, and that these defects are rectified by treatment with synthetic Ucn3 in vitro. Our observations indicate that the paracrine actions of Ucn3 activate a negative feedback loop that promotes somatostatin release to ensure the timely reduction of insulin secretion upon normalization of plasma glucose. Moreover, Ucn3 is markedly depleted from beta cells in mouse and macaque models of diabetes and in human diabetic islets. This suggests that Ucn3 is a key contributor to stable glycemic control, whose reduction during diabetes aggravates glycemic volatility and contributes to the pathophysiology of this disease.
Post-translational tubulin modifications in spermatogeneous cells of the pteridophyteCeratopteris richardii

Acetylation and tyrosinization are post-translational modifications of tubulin generally associated, respectively, with highly stable or dynamic microtubule arrays in animals and protists. Little is known of these modifications in land plants, however. We examined the presence and distribution of post-translational tubulin modifications in developing spermatogenous cells of the pteridophyteCeratopteris richardii by immunofluorescence and immunogold, utilizing antibodies specific for acetylated and tyrosinated tubulin. Acetylated tubulin is found in mid to late stage spermatogenous cells in stable microtubule configurations: the spline, flagella, and basal bodies. Tyrosinated tubulin, a modification associated with dynamic microtubule arrays, is also present in these structures as well as all other microtubules in the cell. The lamellar strip of the multilayered structure, a body previously described as tubulin-containing, was not labelled by any of the tubulin antibodies or antiserum. Treatment of cultures with the microtubule stabilizer taxol results in the appearance of new arrays of microtubules, including bundles in the cytoplasm. Only those new taxol-induced microtubule arrays present in mid to late stage cells (i.e., those with other normally acetylated tubulin arrays) have acetylated domains. Younger spermatogenous cells had similar microtubule bundles but no acetylated tubulin. Tyrosinated tubulin was found in all these taxol-stabilized arrays. These data indicate that, although these pteridophyte cells have the ability to acetylate tubulin, that this ability is limited to stages after the final spermatogenous cell mitosis and is limited to the highly stable spline and flagella microtubules.
757 CHROMOSOME MAPPING OF HUMAN GENES BY GENE PURIFICATION SOMATIC CELL HYBRIDIZATION AND RESTRICTION ENZYME ANLAYSIS

A combination of techniques permits mapping of genes which can by chromosomally located by no other means. Purified genes were labelled with 32P by nick translation. Chromosomes were segregated separately in mouse/human hybrids. The purified genes were mapped on segregated chromosomes by the restriction of the DNA of the somatic hybrid cells and molecular hybridization with the radioactivity labelled genes. In the human, 300 ribosomal genes are located on five homologous chromosome pairs (13, 14, 15, 21 & 22). These genes are polymorphic and contain several populations of different genes. These experiments were designed to study whether this polymorphism is due to mutational events on a single chromosome or if they are a result of interactions between chromosomes. In these experiments a single human chromosome was analyzed by utilizing a 15/X translocation. This permitted the chromosome to be selected in a mouse HPRT-/human HPRT somatic cell hybrid. This 15/X chromosome could also be removed by selection against that chromosome using 8-azaguanidine. This technique permitted us to localize a specific variant to and only to the #15 chromosome. Evidence of the restriction analysis indicates that the polymorphism of this family of genes is a result of interchromosomal exchange.
Dynamics of Probability Distributions Over Classical Fields

It is shown that the original Hopf formulation for the time evolution of probability distributions over classical fields follows deductively from the space-time version of the theory.
Optimized biventricular pacing in atrioventricular block after cardiac surgery.

Background. Temporary pacing is required after openheart surgery for treatment of heart block. Atrioventricular delay and ventricular pacing site might be manipulated to increase cardiac output. We hypothesized that by optimizing both atrioventricular delay and ventricular pacing site a 10% improvement in cardiac output would be observed compared with a standard pacing protocol. Methods. Seven patients in first or third degree heart block after valve replacement surgery had temporary wires sewn to the right atrium, right ventricle, and left ventricle. Cardiac output was measured by integrating flow velocity from an ultrasonic aortic flow probe. After optimization of atrioventricular delays during atrial synchronous right ventricular pacing, the effects of ventricular pacing site were tested at the optimum atrioventricular delay for 10-second intervals. Results. Biventricular pacing was beneficial in all patients with a mean increase of 22% in cardiac index over right ventricular pacing (1.95 L/min/m 2 0.27 standard error of the mean (SEM) to 2.38 L/min/m 2 0.27 SEM, p 0.0012) and 14% over left ventricular pacing (2.08 L/min/m 2 0.22 SEM to 2.38 L/min/m 2 0.27 SEM, p 0.0133). Comparing optimized with standard pacing for 30-second intervals yielded a mean increase of 10% in cardiac index over three respiratory cycles (2.87 L/min/m 2 0.33 SEM to 2.60 L/min/m 2 0.37 SEM, p 0.009) and 17% at the corresponding end-expiratory beats (2.76 L/min/m 2 0.33 SEM to 2.36 L/min/m 2 0.36 SEM, p 0.011). Conclusions. Biventricular pacing at optimum atrioventricular delay improves cardiac output in patients with postoperative heart block by at least 10% compared with standard pacing.
Autofluorescence correction for fluorescence in situ hybridization.

Optimal sensitivity of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) requires bright signals and low background fluorescence. Use of locus-specific probes is especially dependent on high sensitivity. Some tissue preparations show high autofluorescence, masking small or dim signals. We have developed a new method for subtracting autofluorescence from digital images on a pixel-by-pixel basis. It is based on the observation that fluorescent labels for FISH have narrower excitation and emission spectra than the chemical components responsible for autofluorescence. Our new approach uses calculation of the ratio of autofluorescence between multiple color images for correction of autofluorescence in each individual image. By subtracting autofluorescence components, we were able to enhance centromeric signals and make previously indistiguishable cosmid signals clearly visible. This image-processing approach to autofluorescence correction may widen the applicability of gene-specific probes in FISH analysis of tumor material. 15 refs., 3 fig., 1 tab.
The role of the scientist: The amber trade, the chemical analysis of amber, and the determination of Baltic provenience

(1985). The role of the scientist: The amber trade, the chemical analysis of amber, and the determination of Baltic provenience. Journal of Baltic Studies: Vol. 16, Studies in Baltic Amber, pp. 191-199.
The effects of precision constraints in a backpropagation learning network

Summary form only given, as follows. A study is presented of precision constraints imposed by a hybrid chip architecture with analog neurons and digital backpropagation calculations. Conversions between the analog and digital domains and weight storage restrictions impose precision limits on both analog and digital calculations. It is shown through simulations that a learning system of this nature can be implemented in spite of limited resolution in the analog circuits and using fixed-point arithmetic to implement the backpropagation algorithm. >
The Effects of Anger, Sadness and Happiness on Persuasive Message Processing: A Test of the Negative State Relief Model

Although scholars have posited that message strength has a weak effect for those in happy moods, and a strong effect on individuals in sad or neutral moods (e.g., Bless, Mackie, & Schwarz, 1992), research findings reveal contradictory results. Moreover, several theoretical observations of this effect have treated emotion as if it exists on a continuum with “negative emotion” on one end, and “positive” emotion on the other end. We sought to further examine the affect of happiness and sadness on persuasion, and to compare these effects with the impact of anger on attitude positivity and persuasive message processing. We predicted if the negative state relief model is the dominant model of emotion, then anger and sadness should “behave” similarly, but if emotions are discrete and unique, anger and sadness should elicit distinct effects. A4 (anger, sadness, happiness, control) X2 (strong message, weak message) independent groups design was employed. Consistent with past research, message strength was positive...
Signal Processing Applications Of Fiber-Optic Delay Lines

In recent years, considerable progress has been made in the development of components for wideband optical communication, using glass fibers as the transmission medium. (I") The most dramatic advance has been in the loss in the fibers themselAes, which has dropped from a minimum of about 1000 dB/km prior to 1970 to 0.2 dB/km today.(') Similarly, research in the field of integrated optics has led to the development of miniaturized, single-mode com-ponents for use with laser sources. Generation, modulation, directional coupling, switching, and detection of light are functions which have already been demonstrated with integrated optics devices.('-') Improvements in bandwidth, switching and multiplexing capability, size, and reliability for fiber communications systems could result from these efforts.© (1979) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A Sublimation Model for Martian South Polar Ice Features

In their pioneering work, Leighton and Murray argued that the Mars atmosphere, which at present is 95% carbon dioxide, is controlled by vapor equilibrium with a much larger polar reservoir of solid carbon dioxide. Here we argue that the polar reservoir is small and cannot function as a long-term buffer to the more massive atmosphere. Our work is based on modeling of the circular depressions commonly found on the south polar cap. We argue that a carbon dioxide ice layer about 8 meters thick is being etched away to reveal water ice underneath. This is consistent with thermal infrared data from the Mars Odyssey mission.
On case-fatality rate: review and hypothesis.

SUMMARY: The relationship between log cumulative number of patients (X) and that of deaths (Y) in an epidemic follows the equation logY＝ klogX－ klogN0, where k is a constant determining the slope and N0 is the value of X when Y＝ 1. Diseases with k＝ 1 are Ebola hemorrhagic fever, avian influenza H5N1, cholera, and hand, foot, and mouth disease; those with k A 1 are the influenza H1N1 2009 pandemic in countries other than Mexico and the SARS epidemic in some countries; and those with k o 1 include the influenza H1N1 2009 pandemic in Mexico. Epidemics with k A 1c an be simulated by postulating two subpopulations (normal population [NP] and vulnerable population [VP]), where the epidemic proceeds at higher speed and at higher mortality in VP than in NP. Epidemics with k o 1c an be simulated by postulating coexisting high virulence virus (HVV) and low virulence virus (LVV), with the former being propagated at slower speed and with a higher mortality rate than the latter. An epidemic with k A 1 was simulated using parameters that are fractions of subpopulations NP or VP from the total population (f) and NP- or VP-specific patient multiplication (M) and mortality (D) rates. An epidemic with k o 1 was simulated using parameters that are fractions of HVV- or LVV-infected human populations (f), and HVV- or LVV-specific M and D.
Influence of atropine and N-methyl atropine pretreatments on behavioral and physiological effects of the irreversible muscarinic agonist, BM123☆

Abstract The irreversible muscarinic agonist, BM123 (63 μmoles kg −1 , IV), was shown to produce central and peripheral physiological signs characteristic of cholinergic agonists. It also induced hypothermia, elevated nociceptive thresholds, reduced locomotor activity and disrupted spontaneous alternation performance in rats. The centrally acting muscarinic antagonist, atropine (50 μmole kg −1 ) prevented or reduced all the above effects of BM123 when given SC 40 min prior to the BM123 injection. In contrast, the peripherally acting muscarinic antagonist, N-methyl atropine, prevented only the peripheral effects and the elevated nociceptive thresholds. Habituation of activity during a 20 min session was observed in all groups despite different levels of general activity. These findings are consistent with a model in which atropine and N-methyl atropine complete with BM123 for reversible association with the muscarinic receptor. In the case of BM123 administered alone, the association results, first, in agonist effects and proceeds to form an irreversible complex. Our present results show that by competing with BM123 for mAChR sites during the initial, reversible state of the interaction, atropine blocks the cholinomimetic effects of the agonist during both this state and its otherwise subsequent irreversible state.
Pricing the Quality Option In Treasury Bond Futures

This article develops a model for pricing the quality option embedded in the Treasury bond futures contract. Since the option value is set relative to a large family of deliverable bond prices, it is important for the theoretical bond prices to match up to the observed prices. Hence an arbitrage-based model is used where the forward rate process is initialized at its current observable value. A model for valuing the quality option in an otherwise identical forward contract is also established. This permits the quality option and marking to market costs to be separately quantified. Support is provided for the common practice of pricing Treasury bond futures contracts as forward contracts with an embedded forward quality option.
Development of Superconducting Transition Edge Sensors Based on Electron-Phonon Decoupling

We have successfully fabricated a superconducting transition edge sensor (TES), bolometer that centers on the use of electron-phonon decoupling (EPD) for thermal isolation. We have selected a design approach that separates the two functions of far-infrared and THz radiative power absorption and temperature measurement, allowing separate optimization of the performance of each element. We have integrated molybdenum/gold (Mo/Au) bilayer TES and ion assisted thermally evaporated (IAE) bismuth (Bi) films as radiation absorber coupled to a low-loss microstripline from niobium (Nb) ground plane to a twin-slot antenna structure. The thermal conductance (G) and the time constant for the different geometry device have been measured. For one such device, the measured G is 1.16 x 10(exp -10) W/K (plus or minus 0.61 x 10(exp- 10) W/K) at 60 mK, which corresponds to noise equivalent power (NEP) = 1.65 X 10(exp -18)W/vHz and time constant of approximately 5 microseconds.
A second order kinetic scheme for gas dynamics on arbitrary grids

Cartesian meshes for domains with complicated boundaries give rise to cut cells with arbitrarily small volumes. Explicit integration schemes over such meshes have a time step restriction proportional to the smallest cell volume. We present an implementation of the kinetic scheme for gas dynamics by Perthame [B. Perthame, Boltzmann type schemes for gas dynamics and the entropy property. SIAM J. Num. Anal. 27 (1990) 1405-1421] on arbitrary Cartesian meshes. The formulation allows a time step based on the underlying regular cell size, and retains L"1-stability, positivity and second order convergence. Numerical convergence studies on arbitrary grids are presented.
THE TOOTH, THE WHOLE TOOTH, AND NOTHING BUT THE TOOTH: CAN DENTAL PAIN EVER BE THE SOLE PRESENTING SYMPTOM OF A MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract Background Pain symptoms related to cardiac ischemia can vary greatly from patient to patient. However, should emergency physicians consider the possibility of myocardial infarction in patients who present solely with dental pain? Objective This is a systematic review of the literature investigating the incidence of jaw, tooth, or facial pain as the sole symptom of cardiac ischemia. Methods Studies investigating jaw, tooth, or facial pain of cardiac origin were identified using the PubMed database. All English studies in which cardiac pain originated in the face, teeth, or jaw were screened for inclusion. Data were abstracted from each study utilizing a structured review process, and rated for methodological quality. Results Eighteen studies met study criteria: 16 were case reports, and the remaining 2 were prospective cohort studies. After quality assessment and categorization, nine reports were categorized as weak, eight moderate, and one strong methodological quality. Conclusion Cardiac ischemia may present in no anatomic location other than face or jaw. However, despite frequent claims in the literature to the contrary, the lack of methodological quality of the studies investigated impedes a firm conclusion of face, jaw, or tooth pain as the only symptom of cardiac insufficiency.
Ethanol inhibits Intestinal Calcium Transport in Rats

ALTHOUGH it is known that intestinal calcium malabsorption may occur in chronic alcoholic patients indirectly as a result of steatorrhoea of multiple causes1–7, producing inadequate absorption of fat-soluble vitamin D, little attention has been paid to possible direct effect on small intestinal transport. To test that possibility, I starved male albino rats 8 h before and 18 h after the acute administration of ethanol (7.5 g kg−1 body weight) or isocaloric glucose (13.7 g kg−1; they were, however, permitted free access to water. Chronic ethanol ingestion was achieved by giving 20% ethanol in water as a sole source of fluid and standard laboratory chow was fed ad libitum for 12 d. Comparisons were made with ad libitum and pair-fed controls. Calcium transport by duodenum and ileum was measured using an in vitro everted gut sac technique8.
Microneedles and transdermal drug delivery

Transdermal delivery has become a popular route of drug delivery in recent years. However, permeation of drugs through skin is limited to small lipophilic molecules. Microneedle technology involves the creation of micron-sized channels in the skin, which can allow the delivery of hydrophilic molecules including large proteins which do not pass the skin barrier passively. Microneedles can be manufactured in different geometries from various materials such as silicon, glass, sugars and polymers and this technology has been shown to effectively increase the permeation rates of a wide range of therapeutic compounds, including proteins, in several studies on animal models and humans. Combination with other techniques such as iontophoresis and sonophoresis may result in synergistic effects. New products involving microneedle technology are currently being developed in the industry and the prospects are highly promising.
Entrepreneurship, technology, and the university

In recent years, the small technology-based enterprise ('spin-off') has had a significant impact on regional economic development. As a source of new technology and entrepreneurs, the university has made an important contribution to the formation of new enterprises. This article focuses on the role of the university as an incubator organization and the special problems of academic entrepreneurs and their firms. Guidelines are given to improve the academic entrepreneur's corporate performance and suggestions are offered to enable the university to facilitate the entrepreneurship process. The article concludes with a brief discussion of the future prospects for academic entrepreneurship.
A dialogue on momentum accounting for brand management

Abstract Brand accounting systems are helpful in allocating resources internally between existing and start-up brands, in tracking the performance of brands over time, and in understanding competitive relationships across multiple brands. In this paper, a dialogue between an accountant Alpha and a brand manager Beta examines various aspects of momentum accounting systems for brand management. The paper then addresses several implementation issues, such as accounting for momentum components that dissipate at different rates. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of field experiences in developing brand accounting systems.
Kinship terms (and related honorifics): An issue in bilingual lexicography

Abstract Most bilingual dictionaries are based on the controversial assumption that every basic, non‐technical, word or phrase of the ‘object language’ has a counterpart with more or less the same meaning and pattern of use in the ‘metalanguage’. Consequently, a lot of information has been omitted regarding formal and pragmatic constraints on the usages of many headwords in the ‘object language’, thus making bilingual dictionaries of limited help. Focusing on a sample of kinship vocabulary in Lingala, it is argued in this paper that bilingual dictionaries should differ from their monolingual counterparts essentially in that in the former, the ‘object language’ and the ‘metalanguage’ are different, whereas in the latter they are the same. Otherwise, they should provide comparable amounts of information in their entries.
The Agricultural Ethics of Biofuels: The Food vs. Fuel Debate

Plant-based transportation fuels were the focus of extended criticism in the press, especially during 2008 when a portion of the blame for a spike in global food prices was associated with growth of the United States’ corn ethanol industry. The critique is based on an unsophisticated portrayal of the ethical issues at stake in the food security implications of biofuel. Three ethical critiques can be leveled at the food vs. fuel debate. First, although market drivers of biofuels indeed skew consumption of agricultural grains, this is not a problem that is unique to biofuels. Second, the critique does not reflect an adequate understanding of the way that rising food prices and changes in agricultural technology affect the food security of the poorest people. Third, although rising food prices could be beneficial to poor farm producers among the world’s poor, it is unlikely that benefits will materialize in the absence of concerted programs to deliberately select biofuel development strategies that are targeted to strengthen food security for poor and small-holding producers. An adequate agricultural ethics for biofuels will require commitment by both private and public sector biofuel developers to ensure that potentially positive attributes of biofuel development are realized.
Characteristic classes in borel cohomology

Let G be a topological group and let EC be a free contractible G-space. The Bore1 construction on a G-space X is the orbit space Xo = EC x G X. When asked what equivariant cohomology is, most people would answer Bore1 cohomology, namely H:(X) = H*(X,). This theory has the claim of priority and the merit of ready computability, and many very beautiful results have been proven with it. However, it suffers from the defects of its virtues. Precisely, it is ‘invariant’, in the sense that a G-map f: X + Y which is a nonequivariant homotopy equivalence induces an isomorphism on Bore1 cohomology. A quick way to see this is to observe that 1 x f: EC xX+ EC x Y is a map of principal G-bundles with base map lxof=fo:Xo-‘Y,, so that fc is a weak homotopy equivalence. As explained in [l], this invariance property is the crudest of a hierarchy of such properties that a theory might have. We shall show how to compute all characteristic classes in any invariant equivariant cohomology theory, the conclusion being that no such theory is powerful enough to support a very useful theory of characteristic classes. As explained in [2], a less crude invariance property can sometimes be exploited to obtain a calculation of equivariant characteristic classes in more powerful theories, such as equivariant K-theory. To establish context, consider a closed normal subgroup Z7 of a topological group r with quotient group G. If Y is a n-free r-space, we think of the orbit projection q : Y-* Y/Z7 as a particular kind of equivariant bundle. It is a principal U-bundle in the usual sense, its base space is a G-space and thus a Z7-trivial r-space, and its projection is a r-map. The classical case is r= G x Z7. Here q is called a principal (G, Ill)-bundle, and there is a theory of associated (G, I;T)-bundles exactly as in the nonequivariant case. For example, if G is a compact Lie group acting smoothly on a differentiable manifold M”, then the tangent n-plane bundle of M is a (G, O(n))bundle and is determined by its associated principal (G, O(n))-bundle. See e.g. [4; 5; 7, V $11 for background. There is a universal bundle E(Z7;r) -+ B(I7;I’) = E(Zl7; r)/Ii’ of the sort just specified. Its total space E(L7;T) is a Z7-free T-CW complex such that the /l-fixed point space E(Z7;r)” is contractible for any closed subgroup A of r such that
Cutaneous problems related to coastal and marine worms

Marine and beach environments expose unwary visitors to potential injury by aquatic and terrestrial worms. Puncture wounds with embedded spines may result from contact with bristleworms and sea mice. Punctures and lacerations may be caused by the biting clamworms and bloodworms. Cutaneous larva migrans is caused by penetration and migration of dog and cat hookworms into the skin. Simple treatment routines are discussed as well.