cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Online ultrasonic film casting of LLDPE and LLDPE/clay nanocomposites

Transparent cast films of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) with nanoclay up to 10 wt % were prepared in one step process using an ultrasonically assisted compounding extruder operating at various ultrasonic amplitudes combined with film casting machine operating at various take up speeds. Thermal, rheological, morphological, and mechanical properties and gas permeability of these films were studied. Ultrasonic treatment introduced an increase in the complex viscosity and storage modulus and a reduction in the tangent loss of LLDPE/clay nanocomposite melts. Cast films prepared by ultrasonic treatment at an amplitude of 7.5 μm showed the highest mechanical properties in both the machine and transverse directions and the lowest oxygen permeability. X-ray diffraction patterns along with the SEM and TEM images revealed the presence of the exfoliated structure due to the ultrasonic treatment for cast films containing up to 7.5 wt % of clay loading. NMR studies of LLDPE cast films showed an increase of branching due to the ultrasound treatment. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Spectral Tuning in Bacteriorhodopsin in the Absence of Counterion and Coplanarization Effects

The basis for wavelength regulation in bacteriorhodopsin (BR) and retinylidene proteins in general has been studied for decades but is still only partially understood. Here we report the preparation and spectroscopic characterization of BR analogs aimed at investigating the existence of spectral tuning mechanisms other than the two widely accepted mechanisms, weakened counterion interactions and ring/chain coplanarization. We synthesized two novel retinal analogs containing a saturated 13-14 bond, which interrupts the interaction of the protein counterions with the chromophore conjugation system. Furthermore, one of the analogs has a planar polyene system so that the contribution to the red shift of BR by retinal ring/chain coplanarization is also absent. We incorporated these analogs into bacterioopsin and discovered a sizable amount of red shift, which can be accounted for by interactions between the polar or polarizable groups of the protein and the retinal polyene chain. Our results suggest that the wavelength regulation in BR is achieved by synergistic chromophore/protein interactions including ring/chain coplanarization, excited state stabilization by polar or polarizable protein side chains located along the polyene chain, and weakened counterion interactions near the Schiff base positive charge.
Developments in ultrasonic modeling with finite element analysis

An overview is given of finite element analysis and its application to the modeling of ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation phenomena. Following a discussion of the underlying weighted residual methodology, a mass-lumping technique is described which results in an efficient computer implementation for 2D geometries. Code predictions are compared with both analytical and experimental results, and data from studies of attenuation, anisotropy, defect interactions, and surface waves are given. Initial results from a full 3D formulation are also shown.
Models of glass strength and relaxation phenomena suggested by molecular dynamic simulations

A model is proposed to explain several properties of MD ensembles representing silica and silicate glasses. The model involves the breaking of bridging SiO bonds. The breaking of a bond is here defined as stretching the bond to an inflection point in the interatomic potential. This model is proposed to explain: (1) the theoretical or intrinsic strength of the glasses, (2) flow and stress and structural relaxation, (3) melting and devitrification, (4) why silica based compounds form thetrahedral network glasses easily whereas other analogous compounds, AlPO4 for example, does not and (5) the thermal expansion of silica. The model is not new and only suggested by the molecular dynamic calculations, that is, we have not been able to observe the mechanism of glass failure and flow in the simulations. More extensive analysis and simulations are needed in the future.
Self-similar sequences and chaos from Gauss sums

Abstract It is shown that the quadratic Gauss sums form self-similar sequences with well-defined scales and similarity dimensions. It is also shown that Gauss sums can be modified to yield intricate chaotic patterns.
Efficient retrograde enteroscopy using a novel through-the-scope balloon.

Deep enteroscopy can be achieved via double balloon, single balloon, and spiral enteroscopy [1]. Drawbacks of these systems include the need for a dedicated enteroscope, and consequently, specialized accessories [2]. In addition, a special skill set is required [3]. A new through-the-scope balloon catheter (NaviAid AB, SMART Medical Systems Ltd., Ra’anana, Israel) allows enteroscopy with a standard adult colonoscope. This device permits advancement deep into the small bowel in either an anterograde or retrograde approach. It consists of a single-use balloon catheter which is inserted through the working channel of the colonoscope (Fig. 1). The catheter is advanced ahead of the endoscope, including safely around corners, into the small bowel in a blind fashion. Once ahead of the endoscope, the balloon is inflated, anchors onto the small bowel and acts as a rail on which the endoscope is advanced. The device may be removed from the endoscope’s working channel during procedure to allow biopsy and therapy, and can be again re-inserted to facilitate further advancement. A 72-year-old female presented with a 6-month-history of abdominal pain, iron deficiency anemia, and imaging evidence of mural thickening of the mid to distal ileum. Through-the-scope balloon catheter-assisted retrograde enteroscopy was performed as the initial endoscopic investigation (Video 1 in supplementary material). The balloon catheter was deployed immediately after the endoscope intubated the terminal ileum. The endoscope was inserted 1 m beyond the ileocecal valve and the time taken to reach the inflamed area from the anus was only 18 min. Further advancement was limited by an
A carboxylic residue at the high-affinity, Mn-binding site participates in the binding of iron cations that block the site.

Abstract The role of carboxylic residues at the high-affinity, Mn-binding site in the ligation of iron cations blocking the site [Biochemistry 41 (2000) 5854] was studied, using a method developed to extract the iron cations blocking the site. We found that specifically bound Fe(III) cations can be extracted with citrate buffer at pH 3.0. Furthermore, citrate can also prevent the photooxidation of Fe(II) cations by Y Z . Participation of a COOH group(s) in the ligation of Fe(III) at the high-affinity site was investigated using 1-ethyl-3-[(3-dimethylamino)propyl] carbodiimide (EDC), a chemical modifier of carboxylic amino acid residues. Modification of the COOH groups inhibits the light-induced oxidation of exogenous Mn(II) cations by Mn-depleted photosystem II (PSII[−Mn]) membranes. The rate of Mn(II) oxidation saturates at ≥10 μM in PSII(−Mn) membranes and ≥500 μM in EDC-treated PSII (−Mn) samples. Intact PSII(−Mn) membranes have only one site for Mn(II) oxidation via Y Z (dissociation constant, K d = 0.64 μM), while EDC-treated PSII(−Mn) samples have two sites ( K d = 1.52 and 22 μM; the latter is the low-affinity site). When PSII(−Mn) membranes were incubated with Fe(II) before modifier treatment (to block the high-affinity site) and the blocking iron cations were extracted with citrate (pH 3.0) after modification, the membranes contained only one site ( K d = 2.3 μM) for exogenous Mn(II) oxidation by Y Z radical. In this case, the rate of electron donation via Y Z saturated at a Mn(II) concentration ≥15 μM. These results indicate that the carboxylic residue participating in Mn(II) coordination and the binding of oxidized manganese cations at the HA Z site is protected from the action of the modifier by the iron cations blocking the HA Z site. We concluded that the carboxylic residue (D1 Asp-170) participating in the coordination of the manganese cation at the HA Z site (Mn4 in the tetranuclear manganese cluster [Science 303 (2004) 1831]) is also involved in the ligation of the Fe cation(s) blocking the high-affinity Mn-binding site.
The polarized emissivity of a wind-roughened sea surface: A Monte Carlo model

Abstract We use a Monte Carlo ray-tracing model to compute the thermal-infrared emissivity of a wind-roughened sea surface. The model includes the effects of both shadowing and the reflected component of surface emission. By using Stokes vectors to quantify the radiation along a given ray path, we compute the effects of polarization as well. We separate the direct emission from surface reflections to show how each affects the nature of the emitted field. The reflected component is an important part of the radiative transfer and affects nearly 10% of the ray paths at emission angles between 60° and 80° at wind speeds ≳5 m/s, increasing the effective emissivity by as much as 0.03. The modeled emissivities agree nicely with recent sea surface emissivity measurements. We also compare the Monte Carlo results to a recently published analytic model and show that the two vary somewhat due to differences in the amount of the reflected component included in the calculations. Surface roughness has a large effect on the polarization between 60° and 90° but less so at smaller angles. Including the reflected component has a small but noticeable effect which actually enhances the degree of polarization at intermediate angles.
Seasonality of reproduction in bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus

We examined the seasonality of reproduction in captive and wild bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus . Stranding records of neonatal dolphins and observed births from a long-term field study were used to estimate peak periods of birth for wild populations, and information from captive-breeding colonies was used to assess the effects of latitude and origin of breeding females on timing of birth for dolphins in captivity. Bottlenose dolphins showed diffuse peaks and considerable flexibility in their seasonality of reproduction. There was no relationship between latitude and seasonality of reproduction or synchrony of births. However, there was a correlation between origin of population and seasonality of reproduction in both wild and captive dolphins. We suggest that adaptations to local environmental conditions have the strongest influence on seasonality of reproduction in these populations of bottlenose dolphins.
Biobanking for research: a survey of patient population attitudes and understanding

Population-based biobanks are a critical resource for genetic research. It is important to know what potential participants understand about the risks and benefits of providing samples in order to ensure adequate informed consent. Kaiser Permanente Colorado (KPCO) is currently planning a biobank where adult members would be asked to contribute an additional tube of blood during a routine blood draw. Adult KPCO members in clinic waiting rooms were asked to read an informational brochure and informed consent form. Respondents then completed a survey to evaluate their understanding of the materials, willingness to provide a blood sample to a biobank, and facilitators and barriers to participation. Two hundred three members participated in the survey, of whom 69 % indicated willingness to contribute to a biobank. Nearly all understood that they would not be paid for any products resulting from the use of their blood and would not receive results from their samples (91 and 84 %, respectively). Seventy-four percent would donate a sample because, “it is important to contribute to research,” and over half the participants (56 %) said they had no concerns about contributing to a biobank. Of those with concerns, 35 % said information security was a reason. In multivariate models, older age and trust in KPCO were significant predictors of willingness to participate (p = 0.03 and p < 0.0001, respectively). Data from this survey indicate an overall willingness to participate in a biobank, provide possible barriers to participation, and identify ways to improve informational materials to ensure adequate informed consent.
Linear IgA disease associated with membranous glomerulonephropathy.

A 33-year-old Caucasian man developed an acute nephrotic syndrome with a proteinuria of 15 g/day. His past medical history was significant for a cholecystectomy secondary to complications of hypercholesterolemia, and his medications included niacinamide, simvastatin, and multivitamins. A renal biopsy revealed a membranous glomerulonephropathy, with thickening of the capillary loops by light microscopy and 4+ granular immunoglobulin G (IgG) staining of the capillary loops by immunofluorescence. Multiple discrete subepithelial deposits were also noted by electron microscopy. He was treated with cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, and high dose steroids. Laboratory data at that time were notable for an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), decreased albumin, a negative antinuclear antibody, and normal complement levels. His symptoms improved, and the proteinuria stabilized to 7 g/day. His systemic therapy was discontinued without a flare in his renal disease. Approximately 9 months later, he developed a pruritic, blistering eruption which began on his face and neck. An initial skin biopsy showed a subepidermal blister with many eosinophils and eosinophilic spongiosis. A direct immunofluorescence (DIF) study revealed linear deposits of IgG and IgA, and focally linear C3 at the basement membrane zone. This pattern was interpreted to be most consistent with bullous pemphigoid. He was referred to the Philadelphia VA Medical Center for further evaluation and treatment Cutaneous examination revealed multiple urticarial plaques with tense bullae studding the peripheral margin, in a rosette pattern, distributed on his face, trunk, groin, extremities, and feet, with one healing erosion on the hard palate. Laboratory data revealed abnormal, but stable, renal disease, with an elevated blood urea nitrogen (21.1) and creatinine (1.5). Serum IgA was elevated (400), and serum albumin (3.3) and a total protein (5.5) were decreased. A second skin biopsy from a blister edge demonstrated a subepidermal bulla with numerous eosinophils and collections of neutrophils at the dermal papillae tips ( Fig. 1). DIF revealed 3+ linear IgA deposition at the basement membrane zone ( Fig. 2), and an indirect immunofluorescence study on monkey esophagus showed linear IgA deposition in the basement membrane zone. A diagnosis of linear IgA disease was made. Dapsone 50 mg p.o. daily was started, with a dramatic improvement on his blistering within 2 weeks. His renal disease remained stable. Figure 1. Biopsy specimen demonstrating subepidermal bulla with numerous eosinophils and collections of neutrophils at the dermal papillae tips, consistent with LABD (hematoxylin and eosin; original magnification, ×100) Download figure to PowerPoint Figure 2(D). IF revealing linear IgA deposition at the basement membrane zone Download figure to PowerPoint
New surgical approach for operative management of penile fracture and penetrating trauma

Abstract We have seen 2 cases of penile fracture and 2 of penetrating; penile trauma without urethral injury surgically managed with an incision originally described for the operative treatment of venogenic impotence. This incision afforded excellent exposure of all three corporeal bodies and facilitated operative repair. Postoperative results were excellent with return of normal erectile function, minimal edema, and a well-healed, barely visible scar. This incision represents another operative approach for the surgical management of penile fracture and penetrating trauma when urethral injury is not present.
Downton abbey without the hiccups: buffer-based rate adaptation for HTTP video streaming

Recent work has shown how hard it is to pick a video streaming rate. Video service providers use heuristics to estimate the network capacity leading to unnecessary rebuffering events and suboptimal video quality. This paper argues that we should do away with estimating network capacity, and instead directly observe and control the playback buffer. We present a class of rate selection algorithms that allow us to optimize the delivered video quality while provably never unnecessarily rebuffering. Our algorithms work with discrete video rates, video chunking and for both CBR and VBR video codecs.
Linear response theory for systems obeying the master equation

Linear response theory is developed for systems whose time dependence is described by a master equation. The fluctuation dissipation theorem expressing the linear response of the system in terms of fluctuation properties of the system in equilibrium is derived. The time-dependent Ising spin system in interaction with a heat bath, the Glauber model, is discussed as a particular case of the formalism.
Tropomyosin Period 3 Is Essential for Enhancement of Isometric Tension in Thin Filament-Reconstituted Bovine Myocardium

Tropomyosin (Tm) consists of 7 quasiequivalent repeats known as "periods," and its specific function may be associated with these periods. To test the hypothesis that either period 2 or 3 promotes force generation by inducing a positive allosteric effect on actin, we reconstituted the thin filament with mutant Tm in which either period 2 (Delta2Tm) or period 3 (Delta3Tm) was deleted. We then studied: isometric tension, stiffness, 6 kinetic constants, and the pCa-tension relationship. N-terminal acetylation of Tm did not cause any differences. The isometric tension in Delta2Tm remained unchanged, and was reduced to approximately 60% in Delta3Tm. Although the kinetic constants underwent small changes, the occupancy of strongly attached cross-bridges was not much different. The Hill factor (cooperativity) did not differ significantly between Delta2Tm (1.79 +/- 0.19) and the control (1.73 +/- 0.21), or Delta3Tm (1.35 +/- 0.22) and the control. In contrast, pCa(50) decreased slightly in Delta2Tm (5.11 +/- 0.07), and increased significantly in Delta3Tm (5.57 +/- 0.09) compared to the control (5.28 +/- 0.04). These results demonstrate that, when ions are present at physiological concentrations in the muscle fiber system, period 3 (but not period 2) is essential for the positive allosteric effect that enhances the interaction between actin and myosin, and increases isometric force of each cross-bridge.
The salt absorbing cells in the gills of the blue crab (Callinectes sapidus Rathbun) with notes on modified mitochondria.

A modified, glandular epithelium lining the respiratory platelets of gills in crabs known to be absorbing salt is described. The cell surface adjacent to the surface cuticle is thrown into folds whose spaces are filled with flocculent material that is subject to pinocytosis. The lateral surface areas of neighboring cells are thrown into narrow, flat sheets that deeply interdigitate with one another on a one to one alternating basis. There is considerable spacing between the interdigitating plasma membranes that communicates with the haemolymph surface of the epithelium. Tremendously flattened mitochondria with modified cristae are seen. Both flattened mitochondria and more normally shaped mitochondria are seen to form mitochondrial pumps.
Evaluation of liquid‐solid contacting in trickle‐bed reactors by tracer methods

The use of dynamic (tracer) methods for the evaluation of liquid-solid contacting and holdup in trickle-bed reactors is illustrated. It is shown that both the fraction of external catalyst area wetted and the fraction of total catalyst wetted by liquid can be obtained. External contacting efficiency and dynamic liquid saturation are correlated in terms of the appropriate dimensionless groups over the range of variables typical for trickle-flow operation. The relationship between catalyst contacting efficiency and catalyst utilization is outlined.
Effect of impurities on lower hybrid heating of a toroidal hydrogen plasma

Variations in the peak electron density and in the impurity concentrations cause significant shifts in the location of the lower hybrid resonance in a hydrogen plasma for a given incident wave frequency. Moreover, small variations in the impurity concentration can resuit in violation of the accessibility condition. Numerical results are presented which indicate these phenomena.
Infrared titration of lysozyme carboxyls.

Abstract The dissociation of carboxylic groups in lysozyme was measured as a function of pH by differential infrared absorption spectroscopy. Analysis of both the 1707 cm−1 (COOH) and the 1565 cm−1 (COO−) bands showed that of the 10 ionizable groups, two have highly abnormal pK values, 2.0 and 6.5, while the others vary between 3.5 and 5.5. Assignments to specific residues in the amino acid sequence are made in terms of known features of their microenvironment.
A macro method for measuring economic‐benefit returns on cybersecurity investments: The table top approach

Critical considerations in engineering today's systems are securing the collection, access, and dissemination of the information they contain. Advanced computing technologies, ubiquitous environments, and sophisticated networks enable globally distributed access to data and information repositories to an uncountable community of consumers. Engineering security into these systems is more challenging and sophisticated than ever before. Along with this, assuring the integrity of highly networked systems requires economic decisions in rapidly changing technology and threat environments. Recognizing that countermeasures effective against cyber intrusions today can be ineffective tomorrow, the systems engineering community needs a rapid and agile way to identify the efficacies of competing countermeasure investment decisions. This paper presents a macroanalytic method for measuring economic-benefit returns on investments in cybersecurity. The method is called the Table Top Approach. The table top approach is designed to place light demands on the granularity of inputs to evaluate the impacts of cyber intrusion events and the benefits of countermeasure investments. The table top approach derives which investments in a set of competing choices offer the greatest cost-benefit gains in cyber defense, and why. It finds sets of Pareto efficient cost-benefit investments, and their economic returns, that capture tangible and intangible advantages of countermeasures that strengthen cybersecurity. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 16
Associated neurologic and ophthalmologic findings in congenital oculomotor nerve palsy.

Abstract Unlike acquired oculomotor nerve palsy in childhood, the congenital form is usually considered to be an isolated disorder, not associated with other neurologic or systemic disease. In a series of 14 patients with this diagnosis, 10 had associated neurologic disorders. Clinical-neuroradiologic correlation identified the brainstem as the site of the lesion in some patients. The ipsilateral pupil was involved in 12 patients and was miotic with a trace or no reaction to light on the side of the palsy in 8 of the 12 patients. In two of these eight patients, the pupil was documented to be dilated and fixed in early infancy and subsequently became miotic at several months of age, concurrent with emergence of other signs of aberrant reinnervation. Pupillary miosis as a result of aberrant reinnervation appears to be much more frequent after congenital than acquired pupillary-involving oculomotor palsy. Four patients showed better visual acuity in the paretic eye, an unexpected finding. The paretic eye appeared to have a fixational advantage if the patient had nystagmus, presumably due to asymmetric dampening of the nystagmus. Significant anisometropia and astigmatic errors in the paretic eye were present in essentially all patients.
NONLINEAR FILTERING ALGORITHMS FOR VECTOR PROCESSING MACHINES

Abstract Examples of two and three dimensional phase demodulation problems are presented. Computer realizations for the optimal nonlinear phase estimator are discussed in detail, with emphasis on parallel computer architectures. Implementation of the nonlinear filter on various computer architectures, including the CDC6600/7600, CDC STAR-100, Illiac IV, the CRAY-1, and the Floating Point Systems AP120B is reviewed. Detailed Monte Carlo performance analysis is presented for the two-dimensional system, while partial results are included for the three dimensional case. Implications concerning the role of computer architecture upon nonlinear filter realization are discussed. This article is a revision and update of the authors' technical report[1] “New Frontiers in Nonlinear Filtering”. Revisions are primarily involved with the inclusion of up-to-date results and general conclusions.
Selecting Organization Development Theory From an HRD Perspective

As is true for human resource development (HRD), the field of organiza- tion development (OD) draws from numerous disciplines to inform its the- ory base. However, the identification and selection of theory to inform improved practice remains a challenge and begs the question of what can be used to inform and guide one in the identification and selection of practice-informing theory. This article considers the topic of OD for per- formance improvement and proposes that the selection of OD theory rele- vant to the topic can be informed from two perspectives: the theoretical foundations of HRD and multiple domains of performance improvement. When integrated, these two views inform the development of a heuristic and theory-for-practice (TFP) matrix useful to researchers and practitio- ners. The synthesis of this heuristic is presented, discussed, and applie dt o the topic of OD for performance improvement. Implications of the TFP matrix for further research and improved practice are briefly noted.
Overcoming entrepreneurship development constraints: the case of Bangladesh

Purpose – This study aims to investigate the constraints that entrepreneurs face in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh and suggests measures to remove the constraints to entrepreneurship development.Design/methodology/approach – Survey data were collected from 60 entrepreneurs to investigate problems and evaluate the effectiveness and relevance of the government policies and programs as perceived by the entrepreneurs. Secondary data were also used for this purpose.Findings – The findings indicated that to the extent that the political stability and rule of laws were enforced, infrastructure facilities were improved, and corruptions were rooted out, education and training were imparted, and financial help was provided, new and energetic entrepreneurs, for the development of SMEs, would emerge in the country.Research limitations/implications – This study implies that a positive environment through encouragement and positive reinforcement of a stable socio‐political climate for a sound market ...
Biosynthesis and release of glycoproteins by pineal gland in organ culture.

Abstract 1. 1. In vitro biosynthesis of glycoproteins in neuroendocrine tissue was studied by incubating rat pineal glands with L -[3H]fucose and determining trichloroacetic acid-insoluble radioactivity. After 20 h of incubation 67% of the total trichloroacetic acid-insoluble radioactivity was in the gland and 33% had been released into the medium. Essentially all of the 3H-labelled trichloroacetic acid-insoluble material consisted of [3H]fucose-containing glycoproteins. 2. 2. Polyacrylamide-gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate showed a heterogeneous pattern of [3H]glycoproteins in the gland (apparent mol. wts 30 000–200 000) with several characteristic peaks. In contrast, 50% of the [3H]glycoproteins in the medium were in a single broad peak (apparent mol. wts. 30 000–70 000). 3. 3. In experiments in which glands were incubated in the presence of [3H]fucose and [14C]leucine, the ratio of 3H to 14C in macromolecules was 7 times higher in the medium than in the gland.
Highly directional thermal emission from two-dimensional silicon structures.

We simulate, fabricate, and characterize near perfectly absorbing two-dimensional grating structures in the thermal infrared using heavily doped silicon (HdSi) that supports long wave infrared surface plasmon polaritons (LWIR SPP’s). The devices were designed and optimized using both finite difference time domain (FDTD) and rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA) simulation techniques to satisfy stringent requirements for thermal management applications requiring high thermal radiation absorption over a narrow angular range and low visible radiation absorption over a broad angular range. After optimization and fabrication, characterization was performed using reflection spectroscopy and normal incidence emissivity measurements. Excellent agreement between simulation and experiment was obtained.
Forensic Analysis for Epidemic Attacks in Federated Networks

We present the design of a Network Forensic Alliance (NFA), to allow multiple administrative domains (ADs) to jointly locate the origin of epidemic spreading attacks. ADs in the NFA collaborate in a distributed protocol for post-mortem analysis of worm-like attacks. Information exchange between any two participating ADs is limited to traffic records that are known to both sides, maintaining the privacy of participants. Such an architecture is incentive-compatible - participants benefit by gaining better local investigative capabilities, even with partial deployment. Further, we show that by sharing local investigation results, ADs can achieve global investigative capabilities that are comparable to a centralized implementation with access to global traffic records. Our evaluation demonstrates that it is feasible for large-scale attack investigation to be incrementally deployed in an Internet-like federation.
Law and the geographic analysis of economic globalization

This article focuses on the curious absence of law in geographic accounts of state restructuring in relation to neoliberal economic globalization. It argues that law is ever-present in many of the issues at the center of geographic debates, yet rarely given sustained attention. In response, three approaches are offered, each emphasizing a different aspect of the law and each producing different geographies. First, I consider the absence as symptomatic of the problematic of state theory. Second, I review arguments from outside the discipline of geography concerning the ways actors involved in state restructuring engage with and think about the law. Third, I argue for a historical-philosophical investigation into the way that law produces the pockmarked landscape of the global economy through both the extension of legal frameworks and the legally authorized suspension of legal systems. The final section examines how these different approaches deepen our understanding of economic globalization by considering...
Capturing zebras: what to do with a reportable case

WE HAD ATTEMPTED TO PUBLISH A REPORT OF AN UNUSUAL manifestation of an uncommon disease discovered at autopsy. The case report was not accepted for publication because we had failed to order a highly specific test that would have unequivocally confirmed the diagnosis we entertained and subsequently wrote about. After much deliberation about this case and an extensive review of the literature, we now believe that there is a preferred approach to dealing with a reportable case. Because physicians seldom encounter cases that are reportable, we felt that sharing the important lessons we learned from our missed opportunity might prove helpful and encourage those who are considering preparing a case report for publication.
Technology and the great mess of '08: keynote

The financial crisis of 2008 is one of the great technological disasters in history. None of this would have been possible without computers. Who is to blame for the interconnected structure for disaster that came so close to taking the global economy with it when it crashed? What should we be doing to avoid a dreadful encore performance? Part IV of "Nerds on Wall Street" sorted out the key technological issues that caused so much damage: a lack of transparency in markets for what we now call "toxic assets", which led to pricing by models instead of by markets. Models that proved toxically flawed, applied so recklessly, they nearly broke capitalism. This talk brings this discussion up to date. Are current proposals based on the right information and data? Are modelers learning that the models aren't the markets? Can we achieve safe markets without stifling innovation?
Factors Contributing to Hydrogen Peroxide Resistance in Streptococcus pneumoniae Include Pyruvate Oxidase (SpxB) and Avoidance of the Toxic Effects of the Fenton Reaction

Aerobic growth of Streptococcus pneumoniae results in production of amounts of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) that may exceed 1 mM in the surrounding media. H2O2 production by S. pneumoniae has been shown to kill or inhibit the growth of other respiratory tract flora, as well as to have cytotoxic effects on host cells and tissue. The mechanisms allowing S. pneumoniae, a catalase-deficient species, to survive endogenously generated concentrations of H2O2 that are sufficient to kill other bacterial species is unknown. In the present study, pyruvate oxidase (SpxB), the enzyme responsible for endogenous H2O2 production, was required for survival during exposure to high levels (20 mM) of exogenously added H2O2. Pretreatment with H2O2 did not increase H2O2 resistance in the mutant, suggesting that SpxB activity itself is required, rather than an H2O2-inducible pathway. SpxB mutants synthesized 85% less acetyl-phosphate, a potential source of ATP. During H2O2 exposure, ATP levels decreased more rapidly in spxB mutants than in wild-type cells, suggesting that the increased killing of spxB mutants was due to more rapid ATP depletion. Together, these data support the hypothesis that S. pneumoniae SpxB contributes to an H2O2-resistant energy source that maintains viability during oxidative stress. Thus, SpxB is required for resistance to the toxic by-product of its own activity. Although H2O2-dependent hydroxyl radical production and the intracellular concentration of free iron were similar to that of Escherichia coli, killing by H2O2 was unaffected by iron chelators, suggesting that S. pneumoniae has a novel mechanism to avoid the toxic effects of the Fenton reaction.
Simulation and analysis of dealers' returns distribution strategy

Due to high demand uncertainty, excess inventory has been a key issue in inventory control. Caterpillar developed the dealers' parts inventory sharing (DPIS) and returns programs to help dealers cope with excess inventory. However, historical data show that the current returns policy has been very costly to Caterpillar due to the distribution strategy. In this project, we develop alternative returns policies and propose to use simulation to analyze the cost structure of the alternative policies, develop cost sharing schemes, and compare performance with the current policy under different scenarios. It is shown that the simulation tool we developed provides industry managers with a test ground for new returns strategies and the output analysis presents guidelines to set parameters when using the new strategies to manage returns distribution.
Power calculation for high density CMOS gate arrays

Describes a new procedure to calculate the power dissipation of CMOS circuits. The system is based on a predefined energy dissipation library taking into account all dynamic power components. For a specific design first the required circuit data will be calculated and then the toggle frequencies for all macro instances are determined through logical simulation. Using this data the power calculator POWCAL derives the total power consumption of every instance and for the whole design automatically. >
Obesity and neglect: it's about the child.

All rights reserved. 10.1016/j.jpeds.2012.02.035 R ecently, controversy has arisen when a proposal for (and subsequent report of) state intervention to protect a child from life-threatening consequences of obesity was countered by assertions that removal of a child from his or her home was never justified by obesity alone. The predominantly negative reaction to considering such an intervention reflects a failure to address two issues: (1) persistent misunderstanding of the purpose of, and the criteria needed for, state action related to child neglect of any cause; and (2) doubt that consequences of obesity alone could ever meet this threshold. In this discussion, we apply principles that guide determination of child medical neglect in general to lifethreatening childhood obesity, and specify the required conditions for state intervention that preserve both the possibility for and rarity of its necessity. The key concept is that extreme obesity alone does not constitute imminent harm, but in rare cases its health consequences do. In these rare cases, pediatricians are obligated, as in any situation of child abuse or neglect, to take necessary actions to protect the child. To paraphrase Bela Schick, a pediatrician has 3 important clients: first the child, second the child, and third the child. The primary mission of a pediatrician or other health provider initiating coercive state action is to protect a child from serious irreversible harm; it is not to blame or to punish parents. The terms “abuse” and “neglect” are unfortunate and misleading in our view, because most cases involve loving, caring parents who, for various reasons, are unable to protect their child from serious imminent harm. State action to remove a child from a home as a last resort to save the child’s life has been authorized by US courts for 130 years, and healthcare providers have had a duty to report such cases for 60 years. Reasons for such an action include physical abuse, sexual abuse, and medical or nutritional neglect. Obesity leading to an imminent life-threatening comorbid condition, such as respiratory failure, liver damage with likely liver failure, or severe diabetes, should be viewed as just one of dozens of examples in which state action might be necessary to save a life. Classifying such a situation as neglect might be appropriate when the family of the affected child fails to seek or provide medical care, or fails to control their child’s behavior to a degree that places the child at risk of serious harm, including death. Criteria justifying coercive state intervention should be stringent, so that removal of a child from the home for any reason is justified and indicated only when the following 3 conditions are present.
Managing Statin Myopathy

Approximately 10% of patients treated with statins experience some form of muscle-related side effects in clinical practice. These can range from asymptomatic creatine kinase (CK) elevation, to muscle pain, weakness, and its most severe form, rhabdomyolysis. Higher risk patients for statin myopathy are those older than 80, with a small body frame, on higher statin doses, on other medications, or with other systemic diseases including hepatic or renal diseases, diabetes mellitus, or hypothyroidism. The cause of statin myopathy is presumed to be the same for its variable presentation but has not been defined. In patients with myopathic symptoms, their symptoms and CK levels determine whether statin therapy can be continued or must be stopped.
CD4+ T Cell Depletion in an Untreated HIV Type 1-Infected Human Leukocyte Antigen-B*5801-Positive Patient with an Undetectable Viral Load

We report a case of a patient infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) for 20 years who has experienced CD4(+) T cell depletion in spite of maintaining undetectable viral loads. Our data suggest that immune activation can cause CD4(+) T cell depletion even when HIV-1 replication appears to be controlled by host factors.
Cramér-rao bound analysis of echo time selection for 1 H-MR spectroscopy

The choice of echo time (TE) is a complicated and controversial issue in proton MR spectroscopy, and represents a balancing act between signal-to-noise ratio and signal complexity. The TE values used in previous literature were selected either heuristically or based on limited empirical studies. In this work, we reconsider this problem from an estimation theoretic perspective. Specifically, we analyze the Crame´r-Rao lower bound on estimated spectral parameters as a function of TE, which serves as a metric to quantify the reliability of the estimation procedure. This analysis reveals that a good choice of TE often depends on the particular metabolite of interest, and is a function of both the coupling properties of the metabolites and the general complexity of the spectrum.
Vapor phase homogenous nucleation of silicon tetrachloride

Abstract The upward thermal diffusion cloud chamber was used to measure the critical supersaturations required for homogenous nucleation of SiCl 4 vapor. The measured supersaturations are in good agreement with the predictions of the classical theory of nucleation. A photo-induced nucleation process was observed in a supersaturated vapor of SiCl 4 at λ=3250 A using a He-Cd laser. It might be due to the formation of polymeric (SiCl 4 ) n .
Applied RTP optical modeling: an argument for model-based control

A simulation of a complete rapid thermal processing (RTP) system is made to investigate the accuracy of various techniques for temperature control. The process simulated was the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of polycrystalline silicon over an oxide. Control strategies considered were, open loop control, pyrometer control, pyrometer control with a correction for emissivity changes produced by CVD, and open loop control with the lamp heating programmed as a function of time, based an model predictions. The temperature variation and final film thickness of each was predicted by the simulation. The results indicate that model-based open loop control is viable strategy for practical RTCVD control. Based on this strategy, model-based open loop control was then implemented for the control of an existing RTP system. The experimental results confirm the simulations and provide improved temperature control for RTCVD. >
Oviductal antibody response to a defined recombinant sperm antigen in macaques

Macaque oviductal fluids were assayed for specific antibodies to the intra-acrosomal sperm protein SP-10 after immunizations with recombinant macaque SP-10 (re-mqSP-10), a candidate contraceptive vaccinogen. Access ports, consisting of a subcutaneous collecting reservoir and a catheter to cannulate the oviduct, were implanted into monkeys for repeated aspiration of oviductal fluid. Monkeys were inoculated i.m. once a month with an emulsion consisting of 2 mg re-mqSP-10 in a vehicle of squalene and mannin monooleate. Oviductal fluids and serum were collected during the periovulatory period for six menstrual cycles, and IgG and IgA antigen-specific antibodies in preimmune and immune fluids were compared by ELISA. Both relative and absolute concentrations of SP-10-specific immunoglobulins (Ig) were determined. Oviductal fluids from immunized animals showed significant increases in anti-SP-10 IgG at cycle 2 and at all subsequent intervals. Anti-SP-10 IgA significantly increased in oviductal fluid at cycles 4, 5, and 6. Serum anti-SP-10 IgG increased at cycle 2 and remained significantly elevated through cycle 6, while serum anti-SP-10 IgA was higher than in preimmune samples at cycle 4. Serum antibodies generated to the recombinant SP-10 recognized SP-10 extracted from macaque sperm on Western blots. Immunocytochemical staining of macaque and human sperm showed acrosomal immunofluorescence with both immune oviductal fluids and serum using both anti-lgG and anti-lgA secondary antibodies. This study demonstrates for the first time 1) IgG and IgA antibodies to a defined recombinant sperm-specific antigen in primate oviductal fluids after systemic immunization and 2) the recognition by primate oviductal fluid IgG and IgA of the endogenous contraceptive target on both human and macaque sperm.
Machine teaching: an inverse problem to machine learning and an approach toward optimal education

I draw the reader's attention to machine teaching, the problem of finding an optimal training set given a machine learning algorithm and a target model. In addition to generating fascinating mathematical questions for computer scientists to ponder, machine teaching holds the promise of enhancing education and personnel training. The Socratic dialogue style aims to stimulate critical thinking.
Assisted reproductive technologies: utilization and reproductive choices by lesbian couples

BACKGROUND: Lesbian couples have been utilizing ART for years, but utilization information and reproductive goals have not been reported. OBJECTIVE: This IRB approved study aimed to describe intentions and outcomes of lesbian couples accessing ART and report the mean number of cycles needed to achieve a live birth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this retrospective chart review, an EMR query identified lesbian couples who presented for reproductive assistance at one center between 20042015. Descriptive statistics were utilized to report our findings. RESULT(S): Our query identified 306 lesbian couples. The mean age at presentation was 33.7 2.3 years. In 2005, 100% of couples were not in civil unions or married, but by 2014, 84.4% of couples were married or engaged.
Simple Constructions for Minimal Neighbor and GN2 Designs in Linear Blocks

ABSTRACTMinimal neighbor designs and GN2 designs in linear blocks are constructed for all admissible parameter sets. The method is straightforward and uses subsequences of the LWW terrace as initial blocks from which the remaining blocks are generated.
Regulation of glutamine synthetase in L cells by cortisol andl-glutamine

The glutamine synthetase system of strain L mouse cells is regulated by at least two natural substances: glutamine and a glucocorticoid hormone. In a chemically defined cell culture system, cortisol or dexamethasone promotes intracellular accumulation of the synthetase by a process which depends upon genetic transcription. The accumulation is most rapid if the hormone is added to a glutamine deficient culture medium. High concentrations of glutamine promote rapid disappearance of the enzyme by a mechanism which depends on unimpaired protein synthesis. Ways in which the two regulatory substances collaborate to influence the synthetase level and other growth-related processes of L cells in culture are discussed.
Monitoring cure properties of out-of-autoclave BMI composites using IFPI sensor

A non-destructive technique for inspection of a Bismaleimide (BMI) composite is presented using an optical fiber sensor. High performance BMI composites are used for Aerospace application for their mechanical strength. They are also used as an alternative to toughened epoxy resins. A femtosecond-laser-inscribed Intrinsic Fabry-Perot Interferometer (IFPI) sensor is used to perform real time cure monitoring of a BMI composite. The composite is cured using the out-of-autoclave (OOA) process. The IFPI sensor was used for in-situ monitoring; different curing stages are analyzed throughout the curing process. Temperature-induced-strain was measured to analyze the cure properties. The IFPI structure comprises of two reflecting mirrors inscribed on the core of the fiber using a femtosecond-laser manufacturing process. The manufacturing process makes the sensor thermally stable and robust for embedded applications. The sensor can withstand very high temperatures of up to 850 °C. The temperature and strain sensitivities of embedded IFPI sensor were measured to be 1.4 pm/μepsilon and 0.6 pm/μepsilon respectively.