cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Some Results on Point Estimation for the Two-Parameter Weibull or Extreme-Value Distribution

A simple unbiased estimator is proposed for the location parameter of the extreme-value distribution. This estimator is shown to have high eficiency, especially when heavy censoring is used. A simple estimator of reliability, when failure times follow the Weibull distribution, is also obtained, and it is shown to have high asymptotic efficiency when heavy censoring is employed.
Co-option and Irreducibility in Regulatory Networks for Cellular Pattern Development

We used a computational approach to examine three questions at the intersection of developmental biology and evolution: 1) What is the space available for evolutionary exploration for genetic regulatory networks (GRNs) able to solve developmental patterning problems? 2) If different GRNs exist that can solve a particular pattern, are there differences between them that might lead to the selection of one over another? 3) What are the possibilities for co-opting GRN subcircuits or even entire GRNs evolved to solve one pattern for use in the solution of another pattern? We used a Monte Carlo strategy to search for simulated GRNs composed of nodes (proteins) and edges (regulatory interactions between proteins) capable of solving one of three striped cellular patterning problems. These GRNs were subjected to a knockout procedure akin to gene knock-outs in genetic research. Knockout was continued until all individual network components of the reduced GRN were shown to be essential for function. This GRN was termed irreducible. We found many different unique irreducible GRNs that were able to solve each patterning problem. Since any functional GRN must include an irreducible GRN as a core or subgraph, the space for evolutionary exploration of pattern-forming GRNs is large. Irreducible GRNs that solve a particular pattern differed widely in their robustness - the ability to solve a target pattern under different initial conditions. These differences may offer a target for selection to winnow out less robust GRNs from the set of GRNs found in nature. Finally, subgraph isomorphism analysis revealed great potential for co-option during evolution. Some irreducible GRNs appear in their entirety within larger GRNs that solve different patterning problems. At much higher frequency, subcycles are shared widely among irreducible GRNs, including those that solve different patterns. Irreducible GRNs may form the core elements of GRNs found in biological systems and provide insight into their evolution
Communicating with stakeholders

Understanding the institutional context of financial issues and related communication enhances the effectiveness of student affairs administrators within their areas of responsibility and as leaders of change on campus. This chapter focuses on key aspects of developing a comprehensive communication strategy.
Morphometric relationships and energy allocation in the apical rosette galls of Solidago altissima (Asteraceae) induced by Rhopalomyia solidaginis (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae)

Gravid females of Rhopalomyia solidaginis Lw. oviposit on the vegetative shoot buds of Solidago altissima L., and their emerging larvae induce the development of conspicuous, rosette galls with varying numbers of larval chambers per gall. Most galls have only one larval chamber, whereas some have 2-12 chambers. These differences in the number of larval chambers per gall result in variability in the dimensions of galls. Gall populations from several old fields of central Pennsylvania were harvested to assess the morphometric relationships within galls of various numbers of larval chambers, energy allocation pattern among gall components, and host-plant energy allocation to the galls. We found that the normal stem diameter, a measure of host-plant vigor, is a predictor of gallmaker performance. Also, gall sizes likely vary because the gall midges differ in their ability to induce galls but primarily because of variation in the number of larvae per gall and in the quality of different host genotypes. We also found that the strong relationship between the number of larval chambers and the gall stem diameter indicated the stimulation of the goldenrod genotype to create a strong resource base for accommodating the gall. However, our results suggest the possibility of competition among siblings (when the gall houses multiple larvae) for host-plant resources. Our energy estimates reinforce the role of host-plant quality in determining the gall quality.
Direct analysis of glass powder samples by radio frequency glow discharge atomic emission spectrometry (rf-GD-AES)

A method is described for the elemental analysis of glass powder samples by rf-GD-AES. Glass powder samples were pressed without binder to form sample disks. A brass sample holder was designed to hold the pellet onto the source and provide a good vacuum seal. Sample preparation conditions and particle sizes are shown to influence spectral characteristics and plasma stabilization times. The discharge operating parameters were optimized based on both raw analyte signal intensity (S) and signal-to-background ratio (S/B), the latter was found more useful in terms of sample-to-sample precision and quantification. A NIST Standard Reference Material (SRM 89 Lead-Barium Glass) was used to evaluate the method. The limits of detection for trace components ranged from 1–10 μg/g for several elements, depending on the concentrations of the analytes in the SRM. Sample-to-sample reproducibilities were better than 10% RSD and linear calibration curves were obtained using either the Si (I) optical emission as an internal standard or the individual analyte's S/B characteristics.
The perturbation representation for molecular inelastic scattering

Abstract We develop a simple transformation that removes much of the coupling between states in the coupled Schrodinger equations for inelastic scattering. In the sudden limit, the method becomes identical to the infinite-order sudden approximation and the discrete-variable representation, and therefore the approximation is a generalization of these methods to the case where there is a finite energy spacing between states.
The friars of the sack and the kingdom of Majorca

Abstract At the time of its suppression in 1274 at the Council of Lyons the Order of the Friars of the Sack, or Order of the Penitence of Jesus Christ, possessed over 122 houses throughout Europe, and formed perhaps the third largest of the mendicant orders. Historians have scoured almost all available published, and especially papal, materials on this order, and new information will only be uncovered by scholars familiar with local church and state archives. This article first reviews the history of the Sack Friars, as well as their historiographical neglect and frequent misidentification; then, it reconstructs from unpublished materials the foundation, location, popularity among laity, and eventual dissolution of the Friars of the Sack in the City of Majorca. Reference is also made to the Franciscan, Dominican, and Carmelite Friars in the Kingdom of Majorca and a concluding appendix edits four documents, one of which is a papal letter, and another of which — a rare foundational charter for the Sack Friars — documents the animosity and suspicion which prevailed between the regular and secular clergy and led to the events of the Council of Lyons.
Identification, localization and characterization of the human γ-synuclein gene

We have identified and characterized a new member of the human synuclein gene family, γ-synuclein (SNCG). This gene is composed of five exons, which encode a 127 amino acid protein that is highly homologous to α-synuclein, which is mutated in some Parkinson’s disease families, and to β-synuclein. The γ-synuclein gene is localized to chromosome 10q23 and is principally expressed in the brain, particularly in the substantia nigra. We have determined its genomic sequence, and established conditions for sequence analysis of each of the exons. The γ-synuclein gene, also known as BCSG1, was recently found to be overexpressed in advanced infiltrating carcinoma of the breast. Our survey of the EST database indicated that it might also be overexpressed in an ovarian tumor.
Spatial statistical analysis and simulation of the urban heat island in high-density central cities

Abstract The urban heat island (UHI) is a mounting problem in built-up areas, leading to increased temperatures, air pollution, and energy consumption. This paper explores the urban determinants of the UHI, using two-dimensional (2-D) and three-dimensional (3-D) urban information as input to spatial statistical models. The research involves: (a) estimating land surface temperatures, using satellite images, (b) developing a 3-D city model with LiDAR data, (c) generating urban parameters with 2-D/3-D geospatial information, and (d) conducting spatial regression analyses. The data are captured over three grids of square cells – 480 m, 240 m, and 120 m – and characterize the center of Columbus, Ohio. The results show that solar radiations, open spaces, vegetation, building roof-top areas, and water strongly impact surface temperatures, and that spatial regressions are necessary to capture neighboring effects. The best regression is obtained with the general spatial model (GSM), which is then used to simulate the temperature effects of different greening scenarios (green roofs, greened parking and vacant lots, vegetation densification) in the center of Columbus. The results demonstrate the potential of such models to mitigate the UHI through design and land-use policies.
On the stresses around a circular hole in micropolar elasticity

This paper analyses the stresses in micropolar elasticity around a circular hole in an infinite plate, due to prescribed tractions in the plane of the plate, acting on the circular boundary. It is found that the stresses and couple stresses are controlled byPoisson's ratio and two new parameters which depend on the material constants of the micropolar medium.
Optimizing light absorption in a thin-film p-i-n solar cell using a quasi-periodic grating

A p-i-n solar cell is best suited for strong absorbers with poor collection capabilities. However, the absorption naturally decreases at photon energies close to the electronic bandgap of the semiconductor. We hypothesized that a quasi-periodic surface textures in the role of diffraction gratings at the back contact can efficiently scatter light increasing the optical path length inside the absorber layer. The effect of quasi-periodic corrugated backing metallic contact of various types was studied theoretically. To help optimizing the design of the quasi periodic grating the corresponding canonical problem was considered. The absorption of light was calculated using the rigorous coupled-wave approach. The n- and i-layers consist of isotropic nonhomogeneous multilayered semiconductor.
Coordination chemistry of the bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion: molecular interactions in room temperature ionic liquids

Room temperature ionic liquids composed of bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anions and 1,3-ethylmethylimidazolium (EMI) cations are shown to stabilize monomeric ligand deficient transition metal complexes via four distinct binding modes: monodentate nitrogen or oxygen coordination and/or bidentate oxygen–oxygen′ or nitrogen–oxygen coordination (η1–N, η1–O, η2–O,O′ and η2–N,O).
Formation of graphite encapsulated ferromagnetic particles and a mechanism for their growth

Graphite encapsulated nanoparticles have numerous possible applications due to their novel properties and their ability to survive rugged environments. Evaporation of Fe, Ni, or Co with graphite in a hydrogen atmosphere results in graphite encapsulated nanoparticles found on the chamber walls. Similar experiments in helium lead to nanoparticles embedded in an amorphous carbon/fullerene matrix. Comparing the experimental results in helium and hydrogen, we propose a mechanism for the formation of encapsulated nanoparticles. The hydrogen arc produces polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) molecules, which can act as a precursor to the graphitic layers around the nanoparticles. Direct evidence for this mechanism is given by using pyrene (C16H10), a PAH molecule, as the only carbon source to form encapsulated nanoparticles.
Pharmacological Stress Thallium Scintigraphy With 2-Cyclohexylmethylidenehydrazinoadenosine (WRC-0470) A Novel, Short-Acting Adenosine A2A Receptor Agonist

Background Pharmacological stress imaging with adenosine or dipyridamole is associated with a high incidence of side effects, including hypotension, chest pain, AV conduction abnormalities, and bronchospasm. Although the desired coronary vasodilatory response is mediated primarily by the adenosine A2A receptors, these side effects result from stimulation of the A1, A2B, or A3 adenosine receptors. We hypothesized that a selective adenosine A2A receptor agonist would induce coronary vasodilatation appropriate for pharmacological stress imaging, without evoking adenosine receptor–mediated side effects. Methods and Results Infusions of a potent and selective A2A adenosine receptor agonist, WRC-0470 (0.1 to 3 μg · kg−1 ·min−1 for 10 minutes), to five open-chest dogs produced dose-related left anterior descending (LAD) and left circumflex (LCx) coronary artery vasodilatation without altering mean arterial pressure, heart rate, left atrial pressure, or left ventricular dP/dt. In the same dogs, adenosine (300 μg · kg−1 · min−1 for 4 minutes) produced coronary vasodilatation that was limited by significant hypotension. To determine the utility of WRC-0470 for pharmacological stress imaging, the hemodynamic responses to WRC-0470 (0.6 μg · kg−1 · min−1 for 10 minutes) and adenosine (250 μg · kg−1 · min−1 for 4 minutes) were compared in dogs with critical LAD stenoses. 201Tl was injected at the peak WRC-0470 stress response. WRC-0470 increased LCx flow nearly fivefold but did not significantly lower mean arterial pressure. Anteroseptal defects were readily apparent in slice images from all dogs. The mean defect ratio (LAD/LCx) was 0.59±0.06. Conclusions The potent A2A-selective adenosine receptor agonist WRC-0470 is a short-acting coronary vasodilator with potential utility for pharmacological stress perfusion imaging.
First symptoms of dementia: a study of relatives' reports

Fifty relatives who accompanied patients to a dementia clinic for diagnostic evaluation completed questionnaires inquiring about initial symptoms of illness, changes in symptoms over time, current functional and psychiatric problems of the patient, and caregiver stress. Forgetfulness was the most commonly reported initial symptom, followed by confusion, depression, agitation, inattention, getting lost, language problems, and motor problems. Usually, multiple initial symptoms were endorsed (mean = 3.28 ± 1.83). Spouses reported fewer initial symptoms overall and less frequent depression than younger relatives. In addition, there was a significant relationship between informants' reports of first symptoms and the reported levels of caregiver stress and current psychiatric problems in patients. Patients with clinical diagnoses of Alzheimer-type or multi-infarct dementia had a different profile of initial symptoms from those with mood disturbance, but there was no difference in reported symptoms between the dementia groups.
The Root Cause of Nose and Flank Wear and Their Behavior in Turning Ti-6Al-4V With Carbides and PCD Inserts

This paper addresses the root cause for flank and nose wear when machining Ti alloys. In machining ferrous metals, at least the cementite (Fe3C) phase is present as the abrasive contributing to the flank wear. However, most titanium alloys possesses no significant hard phase, which questions the root cause for those wear. In this study, a Ti-6Al-4V bar was turned under various conditions with few grades of uncoated carbide and PCD-insert type tools. The cutting tools were retrieved sporadically after stopping the tuning process in order to examine the wear patterns and their evolution on the tools. The nose and flank wear patterns on the tool inserts were investigated with a confocal microscope. The microstructure of the bar was characterized using Orientation Image Microscope with Electron-Backscattered Diffraction Scan (EBDS). Two distinct types of damages were identified, (a) Micro-fracture at the cutting edge and (b) Scoring markings. Based on the microstructure and the tool wear patterns, this paper claims that both types of damages were caused primarily by the hard orientation of the alpha (α or Hexagonal Closed Packed) crystalline phases and secondarily by the adhesion layer detaching parts of the tool material from the nose and flank surfaces.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
An effective crosswell seismic traveltime-estimation approach for quasi-continuous reservoir monitoring

We present an iterative approach for quasi-continuous time-lapse seismic reservoir monitoring. This approach involvesrecording sparsedata sets frequently, rather than complete data sets infrequently. In other words, it involves acquiring a completely sampled baseline data set followed by sparse monitor data sets at short calendar-time intervals. We use the term “sparse” to describe a data set that is a small fraction of what would normally be recorded in the field to reconstructahigh-spatial-resolutionimageofthesubsurface. Each monitor data set could be as little as 2% of a single, complete conventional data set. The series of recorded time-lapse data sets is then used to estimate missing, unrecordeddatainthe sparsedatasets.Theapproachwastested on synthetic and field crosswell traveltime data sets. Results show that this approach can beeffectivefor quasi-continuous reservoirmonitoring.Also,theaccuracyoftheestimateddata increases as more sparse data sets are added to the time-lapse data series. Finally, a moving estimation window can be used to reduce computational effort for estimating data.
Turning a Spermatogenic Wave into a Tsunami: Synchronizing Murine Spermatogenesis Using WIN 18,446

The BDADs (bis-[dichloroacetyl]-diamines) are compounds that can inhibit spermatogenesis via blocking the metabolism of vitamin A. We utilized one specific BDAD, WIN 18,446, to manipulate the endogenous production of retinoic acid (RA) in the testis to further investigate the action of this compound on mammalian sperm production. Transient treatment of adult male mice with WIN 18,446 blocked spermatogonial differentiation and induced significant changes in the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. WIN 18,446 treatment of neonatal mice also blocked spermatogonial differentiation and, followed by injection of RA, induced synchronous spermatogenesis in adulthood. The net result was pulsatile, rather than normal continuous, release of sperm from the seminiferous epithelium. This study describes a novel technique that can enrich for specific germ cell populations within the testis, representing a valuable new tool for studying spermatogenesis.
Hypoxia-Mediated Alterations In Adenosine Receptor Expression In The Lung

Background: Chronic hypoxic exposure induces pulmonary arterial remodeling, resulting in pulmonary hypertension (PAH) and right ventricular hypertrophy. The role of adenosine (Ado) receptors in the pathogenesis of PAH has not been addressed. Aims and objectives: To investigate the role of Ado and Ado receptor signaling in hypoxia-induced pulmonary vascular remodeling. Methods: Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to hypobaric hypoxia (5,000 m altitude) for 1 and 3 weeks. The adenosine receptor expression profile in the normoxic and hypoxic rat lungs as well as in rat pulmonary artery and microvascular endothelial cells was determined by real time PCR. Ado receptor agonist treated and untreated endothelial cell (EC) proliferation was determined using CyQuant cell proliferation kit. Results: All four Ado receptors were expressed in the lung tissue. The A2A receptor was the most abundant. The 1 week hypoxic exposure significantly upregulated A1 receptor expression indicating it9s role in the adaptive response to hypoxia. The pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) were significantly elevated after 3 weeks of hypoxia (33±2.3 versus 18±2.3 normoxia). Studies in vitro revealed that Ado receptors are differentially expressed in pulmonary vascular endothelial cells and that treatment with selective adenosine receptor A1 (N6-cyclopentyadenosine) and A3 (HEMADO) agonists affects EC proliferation. Conclusions: The expression profile of the Ado receptors is regulated by hypoxia and targeting adenosine receptors might be promising approach to treat PAH. Funded by AHA 0735388N, FAMRI CIA 072053, Emphysema Research Fund and Bixler Family Foundation.
Relation between photon statistics and pumping fluctuations in a dye laser

Measurements of the photon-number fluctuations in a single-mode dye jet laser are compared with solutions of the equations of motion with colored pumping and white spontaneous-emission noise. A search of parameter space for best agreement between theory and experiment shows that the experimental results cannot be well modeled by a theory with white pumping noise, although the correlation time is small, but can be modeled with colored noise. This emphasizes the importance of not treating the pumping fluctuations as δ correlated, even for time-independent quantities.
Choline acetyltransferase in aneural tissue: Evidence for the presence of the enzyme in the placenta of the guinea pig and other species

Abstract Homogenates from placentas of guinea pig, dog, cat, mouse, horse, and cow were incubated in a medium containing 1- 14 C-acetylcoenzyme A and choline to determine whether they contained the enzyme choline acetyltransferase (ChAc). Human placenta, known as extraordinarily rich in ChAc, and human fetal membranes were examined for comparative purposes. Any 1- 14 C-acetylcholine (ACh) formed was isolated by anion-exchange chromatography, paper chromatography, and/or periodide precipitation and high-voltage paper electrophoresis. Migration rates of the synthesized labeled material were compared to those of authentic ACh. Sensitivtiy to hydrolysis by acetylcholinesterase was used as an additional criterion to establish the identity of the 14 C-labeled product with ACh. The results indicated that placentas of all species examined contained an enzyme capable of synthesizing a 14 C-labeled product which behaved indistinguishably from ACh. However, except for human placenta and human fetal membranes, this metabolite was neither the only or the major 14 C-labeled component. The observations suggested that placental ChAc is not unique to man and higher primates as previously assumed.
Reconstructing missing signals in multi-parameter physiologic data by mining the aligned contextual information

The PhysioNet Challenge 2010 is to recover missing segments of a particular signal in the given multi-parameter physiologic data set. In this paper we propose a contextual information based framework to achieve robust reconstruction. For a given target signal that is to be reconstructed, our algorithm intelligently choose among three sub-algorithms to best recover the missing segments. Experiments are carried out on the Physionet/ CinC Challenge 2010 data sets. The results show that the proposed method is particularly effective on signals that have well aligned contextual signals.
Applications of emerging molecular technologies in glioblastoma multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common primary brain tumor in adults. Median survival from the time of diagnosis is less than a year, with less than 5% of patients surviving 5 years. These tumors are thought to arise through two different pathways. Primary GBMs represent de novo tumors, while secondary GBMs represent the malignant progression of lower-grade astrocytomas. Moreover, despite improvements in deciphering the complex biology of these tumors, the overall prognosis has not changed in the past three decades. The hope for improving the outlook for these glial-based malignancies is centered on the successful clinical application of current high-throughput technologies. For example, the complete sequencing of the human genome has brought both genomics and proteomics to the forefront of cancer research as a powerful approach to systematically identify large volumes of data that can be utilized to study the molecular and cellular basis of oncology. The organization of these data into a comprehensive view of tumor growth and progression translates into a unique opportunity to diagnose and treat cancer patients. In this review, we summarize current genomic and proteomic alterations associated with GBM and how these modalities may ultimately impact treatment and survival.
Expanding the concept of unresolved mental states: Hostile/Helpless states of mind on the Adult Attachment Interview are associated with disrupted mother–infant communication and infant disorganization

In a recent meta-analysis, only 53% of disorganized infants were predicted by parental Unresolved states of mind on the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI). The goal of this study was to identify additional predictors of infant disorganization on the AAI by developing and validating an interview-wide coding system for Hostile/Helpless (H/H) parental states of mind with respect to attachment. Maternal AAIs were collected from 45 low-income mothers with high rates of childhood trauma when their children were age 7; Strange Situation assessments had been collected at 18 months of age. AAIs were independently coded using both the Main and Goldwyn coding system and newly developed codes for H/H states of mind. Results indicated that the H/H coding system displayed discriminant validity in that it did not overlap substantially with the Unresolved, Cannot Classify, or Fearfully Preoccupied by Traumatic Events categories in the Main and Goldwyn coding system. Second, H/H states of mind accounted for variance in disorganized infant behavior not associated with the Unresolved classification. Third, H/H states of mind were significantly related to maternal disrupted affective communication as coded by the Atypical Maternal Behavior Instrument for Assessment and Classification coding system, and maternal disrupted communication mediated the relations between H/H states of mind and infant disorganization.
A review of recent design procedures for water networks in refineries and process plants

Abstract This paper presents a review of the procedures to design and retrofit water networks. Although the emphasis is in showing results for refineries, the methods are valid for any process plants. It is first shown that the problem has been decomposed into the design of two interacting subsystems. One problem is the freshwater and wastewater reuse allocation and the other is the wastewater treatment problem. It is also shown how the wastewater treatment problem was modeled as a distributed and decentralized treatment. The roadmap towards zero liquid discharge and energy integrated solutions is then discussed. Several solution approaches are briefly outlined emphasizing the main trend leaning towards the use of mathematical programming. The major claim made is that mathematical programming can produce globally optimal solutions and practically important sub-optimal solutions when conceptual insights are employed to build the models. Although the paper intends to be comprehensive, it emphasizes the author's recent work. Finally, a few of the existing challenges of the area are outlined.
Searching for Information in Knowledge Maps and Texts

Abstract The goals of the study were to examine the efficacy of knowledge maps or text presentations of information in facilitating the search for information, to examine the influence of prior knowledge and vocabulary level on the search for information, and to determine if these variables differentially affected the search for different kinds of information. Participants were randomly assigned to one of four groups. Groups 1 and 2 heard a lecture on the target information for the experiment. Group 1 then searched for different kinds of information in knowledge maps whereas Group 2 searched texts. Groups 3 and 4 were identical to Groups 1 and 2 with the exception that members of Groups 3 and 4 listened to a lecture on information that was irrelevant to the target information of the experiment. Results of the study showed that the type of information sought influenced the effects of material format and searcher characteristics on the efficacy of search.
Judging Alone: Reflections on the Importance of Women on the Court

“The word I would use to describe my position on the bench is lonely.” So said Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 2007, when asked to comment on her position on the U.S. Supreme Court after the resignation of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. After a year as the Court's only woman, Ginsburg had begun to feel the solitude that comes from judging alone, being the Court's only descriptive and often symbolic representative of women's interests. Ginsburg's position was not, sadly, as rare as we might hope in industrialized democracies. Although some countries, such as Canada, have had near majorities of women on their respective high courts, other countries, such as the United Kingdom, continue to have only one woman on their national tribunals.
Circuitry for a wireless microsystem for neural recording microprobes

Integrated circuits for use in a wireless microsystem used in neural recording are described. The implantable microsystem will be powered and transmit digitized data using RF telemetry. Recorded neural signals are amplified, multiplexed, digitized using a 2/sup nd/ order sigma-delta modulator, and then transmitted to the outside world by an on-chip transmitter. The circuit is designed using a standard 1.5 /spl mu/m CMOS process. Several circuit blocks have been designed, fabricated and show to operate as expected.
Patterned magnetic nanostructures and quantized magnetic disks

Nanofabrication, offering unprecedented capabilities in the manipulation of material structures and properties, opens up new opportunities for engineering innovative magnetic materials and devices, developing ultra-high-density magnetic storage, and understanding micromagnetics. This paper reviews the recent advances in patterned magnetic nanostructures, a fast-emerging field, including (1) state-of-the-art technology for patterning of magnetic nanostructures as small as 10 nm; (2) engineering of unique magnetic properties (such as domain structures, domain switching, and magnetoresistance) by patterning and controlling the size, shape, spacing, orientation, and compositions of magnetic materials; (3) quantized magnetic disks-a new paradigm for ultra-high-density magnetic storage based on patterned single-domain elements that have demonstrated a storage density of 65 Gb/in/sup 2/ (nearly two orders of magnitude higher than that in current commercial magnetic disks) and a capability of 400 Gb/in/sup 2/; (4) novel magnetoresistance sensors based on unique properties of magnetic nanostructures; (5) other applications of nanoscale patterning in magnetics such as the quantification of magnetic force microscopy (MFM) and a new ultra-high-resolution MFM tip; and (6) sub-10-nm imprint lithography-a new low-cost, high-throughput technology for manufacturing magnetic nanostructures.
Room temperature power scalability of the diode-pumped Er:YAG eye-safe laser

Laser performance of the Er:YAG resonantly end-pumped by a high-brightness InGaAsP/InP 10-bar stack is reported. Achieved 80 W power is believed to be the highest CW power ever reported from diode-pumped room-temperature Er:YAG laser.
The Metric Properties of Rating Scales Employed in Evaluation Research: An Empirical Examination

This article describes a study that was designed to test the ordinal and interval properties of rating scales, the like of which are commonly employed in evaluation research. Because there is a scarcity of available techniques, testing the interval properties of the scales required a novel adaptation of Mosteller's (1951) "test for internal consistency." The analysis is based upon data generated by the use of paired comparisons and direct scales, and the conclusion reached is that rating scales such as those outlined in this article appear to possess metric properties.
Perivascular Sensory Nerve Ca2+ Receptor and Ca2+-Induced Relaxation of Isolated Arteries

Abstract The present study tested two hypotheses: (1) that a receptor for extracellular Ca2+ (Ca2+ receptor [CaR]) is located in the perivascular sensory nerve system and (2) that activation of this receptor by physiological concentrations of extracellular Ca2+ results in the release of vasodilator substance that mediates Ca2+-induced relaxation. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction using primers derived from rat kidney CaR cDNA sequence showed that mRNA encoding a CaR is present in dorsal root ganglia but not the mesenteric resistance artery. Western blot analysis using monoclonal anti-CaR showed that a 140-kD protein that comigrates with the parathyroid CaR is present in both the dorsal root ganglia and intact mesenteric resistance artery. Immunocytochemical analysis of whole mount preparations of mesenteric resistance arteries showed that the anti-CaR–stained perivascular nerves restricted to the adventitial layer. Biophysical analysis of mesenteric resistance arteries showed that cumulatively raising Ca2+ from 1 to 1.25 mol/L and above relaxes precontracted arteries with an ED50 value of 2.47±0.17 mmol/L (n=12). The relaxation is endothelium independent and is unaffected by blockade of nitric oxide synthase but is completely antagonized by acute and subacute phenolic destruction of perivascular nerves. A bioassay showed further that superfusion of Ca2+ across the adventitial surface of resistance arteries releases a diffusible vasodilator substance. Pharmacological analysis indicates that the relaxing substance is not a common sensory nerve peptide transmitter but is a phospholipase A2/cytochrome P450–derived hyperpolarizing factor that we have classified as nerve-derived hyperpolarizing factor. These data demonstrate that a CaR is expressed in the perivascular nerve network, show that raising Ca2+ from 1 to 1.25 mol/L and above causes nerve-dependent relaxation of resistance arteries, and suggest that activation of the CaR induces the release of a diffusible hyperpolarizing vasodilator. We propose that this system could serve as a molecular link between whole-animal Ca2+ balance and arterial tone.
Soft color exchanges and the hadronic final state

The models for soft color interactions and color string re-interactions, implemented in the Monte Carlo program LEPTO, are investigated regarding hadronic final states in inclusive and diffractive deep inelastic scattering. The hadronic final state in inclusive and diffractive deep inelastic scattering (DIS) can give a better understanding of the interplay between soft and hard processes in QCD. Whereas hard interactions are well described by perturbative QCD, soft interactions are not calculable within perturbation theory. Instead more phenomenological models are used to transform the perturbative partonic final state into an observable hadronic final state. It is normally assumed that the color topology of an event is given by the planar approximation in perturbation theory, so that terms of order 1/N{sub c}{sup 2} are neglected, and that this topology is not altered by soft interactions.
Non-orthogonal designs for measuring dispersion effects in sequential factor screening experiments using search linear models

“Dispersion” effects are considered in addition to “Location” effects of factors in the inferential procedure of sequential factor screening experiments with m factors each at two levels under search linear models. Search designs in measuring "Dispersion" and "Location" effects of factors are presented for both stage one and stage two of factor screening experiments with 4 ≤ m ≤ 10.
The reactions of arylamines with chelidonic acid

Depending on the conditions, and the basicity of the amine, arylamines react with chelidonic acid to yield five different types of product: salts, N-arylchelidamic acids, N-aryl-4-pyridone-2-carboxylic acids, N-aryl-4-pyridones, or chelidamic acid itself.
Better Word Alignments with Supervised ITG Models

This work investigates supervised word alignment methods that exploit inversion transduction grammar (ITG) constraints. We consider maximum margin and conditional likelihood objectives, including the presentation of a new normal form grammar for canonicalizing derivations. Even for non-ITG sentence pairs, we show that it is possible learn ITG alignment models by simple relaxations of structured discriminative learning objectives. For efficiency, we describe a set of pruning techniques that together allow us to align sentences two orders of magnitude faster than naive bitext CKY parsing. Finally, we introduce many-to-one block alignment features, which significantly improve our ITG models. Altogether, our method results in the best reported AER numbers for Chinese-English and a performance improvement of 1.1 BLEU over GIZA++ alignments.
Global resource sharing for synthesis of control data flow graphs on FPGAs

In this paper we discuss the global resource sharing problem during synthesis of control data flow graphs for FPGAs. We first define the Global Resource Sharing (GRS) problem. Then, we introduce the Global Inter Basic Block Resource Sharing (GIBBS) technique to solve the GRS problem. We developed five heuristics to solve the GRS problem. The first tries to minimize the number of connections between modules, the second considers the area gain, the third uses the criticality of operations assigned to resources as a measure for deciding on merging any given pair of resources, the fourth tries to capture common resource chains and overlap those to minimize both area and delay, and the fifth is the combination of these heuristics. While applying resource sharing, we also consider the execution frequency of the basic blocks. Using our techniques we synthesized several CDFGs representing applications from MediaBench suite. Our results show that, we can reduce the total area requirement by 44% on average (up to 59%) while increasing the execution time by 6% on average.
Separation of Lanthanides and Trivalent Actinides with Pressurized Ion Exchange

Certainly, one of the first triumphs of ion exchange chromatography was the separation and identification of fission product rare earths in the Manhattan Project in the early 1940s. Publications de...
Usefulness of Single Column Model Diagnosis through Short-Term Predictions

Abstract Single column models (SCMs) provide an economical framework for developing and diagnosing representations of diabatic processes in weather and climate models. Their economy is achieved at the price of ignoring interactions with the circulation dynamics and with neighboring columns. It has recently been emphasized that this decoupling can lead to spurious error growth in SCM integrations that can totally obscure the error growth due to errors in the column physics that one hopes to isolate through such integrations. This paper suggests one way around this “existential crisis” of single column modeling. The basic idea is to focus on short-term SCM forecast errors, at ranges of 6 h or less, before a grossly unrealistic model state develops and before complex diabatic interactions render a clear diagnosis impossible. To illustrate, a short-term forecast error diagnosis of the NCAR SCM is presented for tropical conditions observed during the Tropical Ocean and Global Atmosphere (TOGA) Coupled Ocean–At...
The use of pharmacotherapy in the treatment of pediatric insomnia in primary care: rational approaches. A consensus meeting summary.

Objectives To formulate a rational approach to the pharmacologic treatment of pediatric insomnia, and to develop clinical guidelines regarding indications, target populations, and parameters for the use of these medications, especially by community-based pediatricians. Participants A multidisciplinary task force developed under the auspices of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, which included experts in pediatric sleep medicine, psychiatry, pharmacology, neurology, and general pediatrics. Evidence Review of existing data regarding current use of over-the-counter and prescription medications for pediatric insomnia in the primary care practice setting, and of empirical data on the pharmacology, safety, efficacy, and tolerability of medications commonly used for the treatment of pediatric insomnia. Consensus process Group consensus definition of pediatric insomnia and clinical guidelines; working group recommendations regarding special populations and future directions. Conclusions Use of medications for pediatric insomnia should be diagnostically driven, and should be implemented in conjunction with empirically-based behavioral treatment strategies and adequate sleep hygiene. Specific target populations include children with neurodevelopmental disorders, pervasive developmental disorders, chronic medical conditions, and psychiatric disorders. Additional research, including clinical trials, is critically needed to provide an evidence-based approach to the use of these medications in clinical practice.
Adolescent Eating Behavior: The Role of Indulgent Parenting:

This qualitative study was set in the context of two evolving concomitant social issues: concerns with adolescent eating and health behaviors and parental indulgence. The research purpose was to gain a deeper and more insightful understanding of the family food ecosystem, parental modeling, and parental indulgence and their potential relationship to adolescent health and well-being. In all, 29 parents of 25 high school students were interviewed, and the resulting narrative data were analyzed for themes. Results showed parental concerns about weight and health, modeling of unhealthy eating habits, and soft structure as a prevalent form of parental indulgence. This research has implications for social workers, family service providers, and health providers who work with communities in developing nutrition and health education programs and policies that enhance parental knowledge, limit the effects of parental indulgence, and address adolescent decision-making skills related to their own health. Recommendati...
Hierarchical Motion Control for a Team of Humanoid Soccer Robots

Robot soccer has become an effective benchmarking problem for robotics research as it requires many aspects of robotics including perception, self localization, motion planning and distributed coor...
Some Chemical and Physical Studies of Staphylococcus Enterotoxin

The immunological response of animals to staphylococcus enterotoxin, as well as the heat resistance of the enterotoxin, suggests that this substance is different from other known bacterial exotoxins. The following study of some physical and chemical properties of the enterotoxin were undertaken in an attempt to account for these differences. The properties dealt with in the present discussion are (1) heat stability, (2) solubility in chloroform, (3) solubility in alcohol, and (4) solubility in strong salt (ammonium sulfate) solution. Two strains of staphylococci were used. Strain 161 was isolated from sandwiches which caused a large outbreak of food poisoning in 1935. It has continually given positive results when assayed by kitten or monkey injection and by monkey feeding. Strain 43 gives consistently negative results when tested for enterotoxin. It produces the other staphylococcus toxins. In every case our filtrates were prepared from 3-day cultures grown under 20^0 carbon dioxide on semisolid veal infusion agar. The agar was strained through gauze and the fluid expressed was centrifuged to remove most of the organisms and then passed through a Berkefeld N filter. Several methods of assay were used depending upon the problem concerned. Although intravenous injection in monkeys and kittens is a more delicate test, we felt that nonspecific reactions due to chemical treatment in purification could be avoided by feeding large amounts to monkeys.
Home Ranges of Three Species of Chipmunks (Tamias) as Assessed by Radiotelemetry and Grid Trapping

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Transient Thermofluids Analysis of a Ground-Level Integrated Diverse Energy Storage (GLIDES) System

In this work, a novel Ground-Level Integrated Diverse Energy Storage (GLIDES) system which can store energy via input of electricity or heat and deliver dispatchable electricity is presented [1]. The proposed system is low-cost and hybridizes compressed air and pumped-storage approaches that will allow for the off-peak storage of intermittent renewable energy for use during peak times. A detailed control-volume energy analysis of the system is carried out, yielding a set of coupled differential equations which are discretized using a finite difference scheme and used to model the transient response during charging and discharging. The energy analysis includes coupled heat transfer and pressure drop analysis used to predict system losses for more accurate round trip efficiency (RTE) calculations and specific energy density (ED) predictions. Preliminary analysis of the current prototype indicates an electric-to-electric RTEE of 66% (corresponding to shaft-to-shaft mechanical RTEM of 78%) and ED of 2.5 MJ/m3 of air, given initial air volume and pressure of 2 m3 and 70 bar. The electric power output ranges from a max of 2.5 kW to a min of 1.2 kW and the output current ranges from a max of approximately 21 amps to approximately 10 amps at 120 V, 60 Hz dispatchable electricity, over a period of approximately 50 minutes. Additionally, it is shown that heat transfer enhancement to the point of a 5-fold increase in air heat transfer rates results in a near 5% improvement in RTEE (70% considering all component losses). Additional component efficiency improvements and efficiency gains due to system scale-up could see higher achievable RTEs.Copyright © 2015 by ASME