cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Signature pairs of positive polynomials

A well-known theorem of Quillen says that if $r(z,\bar{z})$ is a bihomogeneous polynomial on ${\mathbb{C}}^n$ positive on the sphere, then there exists $d$ such that $r(z,\bar{z}){\lVert z \rVert}^{2d}$ is a squared norm. We obtain effective bounds relating this $d$ to the signature of $r$. We obtain the sharp bound for $d=1$, and for $d > 1$ we obtain a bound that is of the correct order as a function of $d$ for fixed $n$. The current work adds to an extensive literature on positivity classes for real polynomials. The classes $\Psi_d$ of polynomials for which $r(z,\bar{z}){\lVert z \rVert}^{2d}$ is a squared norm interpolate between polynomials positive on the sphere and those that are Hermitian sums of squares.
A model of cerebellar adaptation of grip forces during lifting

We investigated adaptive neural control of precision grip forces during object lifting. A model is presented that adjusts reactive and anticipatory grip forces to a level just above that needed to stabilize lifted objects in the hand. The model obeys principles of cerebellar structure and function by using slip sensations as error signals to adapt phasic motor commands to tonic force generators associated with output synergies controlling grip aperture. The learned phasic commands are weight- and texture-dependent. Simulations of the new circuit model reproduce key aspects of experimental observations of force application. Over learning trials, the onset of grip force buildup comes to lead the load force buildup, and the rate-of-rise of grip force, but not load force, scales inversely with the friction of the gripped object.
Timely blockade of ICAM-1.LFA-1 interaction prevents disease onset in a mouse model of emphysema

Aim: It is becoming apparent that emphysema is partly driven by self-reactive T cells inducing inflammatory damage. Thus, T cells become targets for therapy similar to other autoimmune diseases. Costimulatory blockade therapy targets disease-specific T cells, rendering them ineffective by blocking a necessary costimulatory event on the T-cell surface. This therapy is tested here in mouse emphysema. Materials & methods: Peptides representing contact domains of counter receptors LFA-1 and ICAM-1 were used as blockade therapy in elastase-induced emphysema. Results: When administered during the first week after disease induction, blockade prevented lung destruction, reduced leukocyte infiltration and inhibited the decrease in T-cell CD4:CD8 ratio, also common in human emphysema. Conclusion: Costimulatory blockade therapy can affect the progress of emphysema.
STABILITY OF MIDAZOLAM HYDROCHLORIDE IN PARENTERAL NUTRIENT SOLUTIONS

The compatibility and stability of midazolam hydrochloride in three parenteral nutrient (PN) solutions and the stability of 15 amino acids in the presence of midazolam hydrochloride were studied. Six combinations of three PN solutions with amino acid concentrations of 1.5%, 2.5%, and 5% and two midazolam concentrations (0.1 and 0.5 mg/mL) were prepared in triplicate and stored at room temperature under normal fluorescent lighting. Duplicate samples were visually inspected for color change, precipitation, or gas formation and tested for pH. The samples were evaluated for midazolam and amino acid content by high-performance liquid chromatography at zero, one, three, and five hours. Midazolam and amino acid concentrations did not change significantly during the study. There was no evidence of color change, precipitation, or gas formation with any midazolam-PN solution combination when the combinations were examined visually and under a microscope, and no substantial changes in pH occurred. Midazolam 0.1 and 0.5 mg/mL (as the hydrochloride salt) was stable in the three PN solutions studied; in addition, the amino acids present in the 1.5%, 2.5%, and 5% amino acid PN solutions were stable when combined with midazolam at concentrations of 0.1 and 0.5 mg/mL.
Testing the role of silicic acid and bioorganic materials in the formation of rock coatings

Silica, amino acids, and DNA were recently discovered in desert varnish. In this work we experimentally test the proposed role of silicic acid and bio-chemicals in the formation of desert varnish and other rock coatings. We have developed a protocol in which the rocks were treated with a mixture of silicic acid, sugars, amino acids, metals and clays, under the influence of heat and UV light. This protocol reflects the proposed mechanism of the polymerization of silicic acid with the biooganic materials, and the laboratory model for the natural conditions under which the desert varnish is formed. Our experiments produced coatings with a hardness and morphology that resemble the natural ones. These results provide a support for the role of silicic acid in the formation of rock coatings. Since the hard silica-based coatings preserve organic compounds in them, they may serve as a biosignature for life, here or possibly on Mars.
Tissue damage induced by an oxyuroid nematode, Leidynema sp., in the hindgut of the Madeira cockroach, Leucophaea maderae.

Abstract An oxyuroid nematode ( Leidynema ) was found to be causally related to a hindgut lesion in the Maderia cockroach, Leucophaea maderae . As oxyuroids are generally believed to live commensally within the hindgut of their hosts and not to cause intestinal damage, the lesion is described in some detail. The lesion apparently resulted from the damaged tissue eliciting a blood cell response and was not a defense reaction directed against the nematode. Additional observations are made and discussed concerning (1) the hemocytic nature of the lesion, (2) the lack of involvement of the epithelial cells, (3) the apparent health of the animal in spite of the continuity between gut lumen and hemolymph, and (4) the formation of “melanin” by blood cells in response to diverse stimuli.
Concerted Roles of SGK1 and the Na+/H+ Exchanger Regulatory Factor 2 (NHERF2) in Regulation of NHE3

Na+/H+ exchanger regulatory factors, NHERF1 and NHERF2, are structurally related proteins and highly expressed in epithelial cells. These proteins are initially identified as accessory proteins in the regulation of Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 3, NHE3. In addition to regulation of NHE3, recent studies demonstrate the importance of NHERF1 and NHERF2 in recycling and localization of membrane receptors, ion channels and transporters. Recent studies show that serum- and glucocorticoid-induced kinase 1 (SGK1) specifically interacts with NHERF2 but not with NHERF1, adding to the growing number of differences between the two proteins. The association of SGK1 with NHERF2 is necessary for stimulation of NHE3 activity by glucocorticoids. In addition, SGK1 together with NHERF2 stimulates the K+ channel ROMK1, suggesting a broader role of SGK1 in regulation of ion transport.
Management Science on the Credibility Bubble: Cardinal Sins and Various Misdemeanors

This research-based essay presents survey results—collected from faculty in 104 PhD-granting management departments of AACSB-accredited business schools in the United States—regarding 11 different ...
Potential Impact of Postoperative Early Complications on the Timing of Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients Undergoing Radical Cystectomy: A High-Volume Tertiary Cancer Center Experience

Abstract Background Perioperative cisplatin combination chemotherapy is associated with a survival benefit in patients with invasive bladder cancer (BCa). However, in a recent report from the National Cancer Database (NCDB), only 11.6% of stage III BCa patients received perioperative chemotherapy, the majority in the adjuvant setting. Objective We explore the impact of postoperative complications on the timing of adjuvant chemotherapy. Design, setting, and participants An independent review board approved the review of 1142 consecutive radical cystectomies (RC), and data from these cases were entered into a prospective complication database (1995–2005) which was utilized and retrospectively reviewed for accuracy at a single, academic, tertiary cancer center. Interventions All patients underwent RC/urinary diversion by high-volume, fellowship-trained, urologic oncologists. Measurements All complications within 90 d of surgery were defined and graded using a five-grade modification of the original Clavien system utilized at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and stratified into 11 categories. Grade 2–5 complications typically prohibit starting adjuvant chemotherapy. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression were used to evaluate variables associated with complications. Results and limitations Overall, 64% (735 of 1142 patients) experienced one or more complications, of which 83% (611 of 735) were grade 2–5. Furthermore, 57% of grade 2–5 complications (347 of 611) occurred between discharge and 90 d, 38% (233 of 611) within 6 wk, and 19% (114 of 611) between 6 wk and 12 wk, the general time frame for adjuvant chemotherapy. Overall, 26% (298 of 1142 patients) required readmission. Surgical morbidity at a high-volume tertiary cancer center may not reflect the case mix or surgical experience seen in the community setting. Conclusion This series demonstrates that 30% of patients (347 of 1142) undergoing RC may not have been able to receive adjuvant chemotherapy due to postoperative complications. This information should be taken into consideration when planning multimodal therapy and further supports the use of perioperative chemotherapy in the neoadjuvant setting.
Properties of impurity-bearing ferrihydrite II: Insights into the surface structure and composition of pure, Al- and Si-bearing ferrihydrite from Zn(II) sorption experiments and Zn K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy

Abstract Naturally occurring ferrihydrite often contains impurities such as Al and Si, which can impact its chemical reactivity with respect to metal(loid) adsorption and (in)organic or microbially induced reductive dissolution. However, the surface composition of impure ferrihydrites is not well constrained, and this hinders our understanding of the factors controlling the surface reactivity of these nanophases. In this study, we conducted Zn(II) adsorption experiments combined with Zn K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements on pure ferrihydrite (Fh) and Al- or Si-bearing ferrihydrites containing 10 and 20 mol% Al or Si (referred to as 10AlFh, 20AlFh and 10SiFh, 20SiFh) to evaluate Zn(II) uptake in relation to Zn(II) speciation at their surfaces. Overall, Zn(II) uptake at the surface of AlFh is similar to that of pure Fh, and based on Zn K-edge EXAFS data, Zn(II) speciation at the surface of Fh and AlFh also appears similar. Binuclear bidentate IV Zn– VI Fe complexes (at ∼3.46 A ( 2 C[1]) and ∼3.25 A ( 2 C[2])) were identified at low Zn(II) surface coverages from Zn K-edge EXAFS fits. With increasing Zn(II) surface coverage, the number of second-neighbor Fe ions decreased, which was interpreted as indicating the formation of IV Zn polymers at the ferrihydrite surface, and a deviation from Langmuir uptake behavior. Zn(II) uptake at the surface of SiFh samples was more significant than at Fh and AlFh surfaces, and was attributed to the formation of outer-sphere complexes (on average 24% of sorbed Zn). Although similar Zn–Fe/Zn distances were obtained for the Zn-sorbed SiFh samples, the number of Fe second neighbors was lower in comparison with Fh. The decrease in second-neighbor Fe is most pronounced for sample 20SiFh, suggesting that the amount of reactive surface Fe sites diminishes with increasing Si content. Although our EXAFS results shown here do not provide evidence for the existence of Zn–Al or Zn–Si complexes, their presence is not excluded for Zn-sorbed AlFh or SiFh. The results of this study indicate that Zn(II) interaction with Fh is influenced by the type of impurities associated with this nanomineral, particularly in the case of Si-bearing Fh, and this may have implications for our understanding of metal(loid) mobility in natural systems.
On the bonding in doubly charged diatomics

The potential energy of interacting atomic ions A++B+ often shows a shallow local minimum separated by a broad potential barrier from the dissociation products at much lower energy. Early interpretations of dication potential shapes were based on the similarity of the electronic structure between isoelectronic neutral and ionic species and led to a picture of a chemical bond superimposed on a repulsive Coulomb potential. More recently, barriers in dication potentials have commonly been interpreted as avoided curve crossings involving covalent and ionic structures. In this paper, we demonstrate that the former model is the appropriate one except in cases with very small asymptotic ionic/covalent energy splittings. By deriving dication wavefunctions from their neutral isoelectronic counterparts, we obtain upper bound dication potential curves which show all the characteristic features. By further modeling induction effects, we arrive at an almost quantitative fit of accurateab initio dication potentials. The “chemical bond plus electrostatic repulsion’ interpretation of dication interactions also explains why the accurate calculation of potential curves appears to be much more demanding for dications than for isoelectronic neutrals.
Breakup of a liquid jet in supersonic crossflow

A theoretical study of the breakup of a circular liquid jet injected transversely into a supersonic air stream is conducted. Two different criteria for breakup are explored in the context of a previously developed model for the behavior of liquid jets in compressible crossflow (Heister et al., 1989). The local sonic point criterion first proposed by Schetz, et al. (1980) is explored, in addition to an auxiliary criterion put forth by Clark (1964) based on surface-tension stability. It is found that the local sonic point appears to provide a more reasonable approximation to the actual location of jet breakup, based on comparisons with limited experimental data.
Contact hole size-reducing methods by using water-soluble organic over-coating material (WASOOM) as a barrier layer toward 0.15-μm contact hole: resist flow technique I

In our experiment for 0.15 micrometer contact hole, we used Water-soluble organic overcoating material (WASOOM) as a barrier layer. Since WASOOM is water soluble, after baking for resist flow, water rinse will remove it completely. The key point of resist flow technique is to reduce overhang, in other words, reducing thermal stress at the top and bottom of resist pattern by WASOOM can lead to well-controlled DICD. Since WASOOM is water soluble and very compatible with resist, during resist flow, it is assumed that it will be acting as a barrier layer so that overhang should be reduced. In this paper we will describe below 0.2 micrometer contact hole pattern without overhang profile, well controlled DICD and fine etch profile. And also 0.15 micrometer contact hole patterning method will be described with half tone + resist flow by WASOOM. And also we will describe the application of SOG (Spin On Glass) for removing top flare after resist baking.
Use of estimated glomerular filtration rate for drug dosing in the chronic kidney disease patient.

Purpose of reviewAssessment of kidney function is necessary to stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) and appropriately dose medications. The Cockcroft–Gault equation provides an estimate of creatinine clearance (eClCr) and is the method commonly referenced in pharmacokinetic studies. The Modification o
(Re)visions to a secondary teacher education course: Trials and triumphs in attempting to disrupt hegemonic understandings and performances of education

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to explore curricular (re)visions made over the span of two semesters to a required secondary teacher education course. Specifically, we focus on our trials and triumphs in implementing the revised curricula. Our work is guided by the following question: in what ways do preservice teachers deem the diversity-focused course curriculum as relevant to their future teaching stances/practices? Data collected illuminated the complexities of disrupting hegemonic understandings and performances of education. Some of the data indicated that preservice teachers deemed the diversity-focused course curriculum as relevant to and connected with their future teaching stances/practices. Other data highlighted that some preservice teachers’ struggled with making sense of their future teaching practices in relation to issues of oppression and privilege, while other preservice teachers were resistant.
Networks of ultra-fine Ag nanocrystals in a Teflon AF? matrix by vapour phase e-beam-assisted deposition

We have fabricated nanocomposite thin films comprising silver (Ag) nanoparticles dispersed in a Teflon AF? polymer matrix using electron-beam-assisted physical vapour deposition. Four different Ag nanoparticle volume fillings (20%, 35%, 70% and 75%) were achieved by varying the relative metal?polymer evaporation rates with the formation of highly crystalline Ag nanoparticles regardless of the filling ratio. The present fabrication technique allowed full control over dispersion uniformity of nanoparticles in the polymer network. At 20% and 35% metal volume fillings, the nanocomposite film morphology consists of a uniformly dispersed assembly of equiaxed isolated Ag nanoparticles. At higher metal volume fractions the nanocomposite structures displayed two different and unique Ag nanoparticle arrangements within the polymer matrix. In particular, at 70% metal filling, the formation of irregularly shaped clusters of individually assembled nanocrystals was observed. At a slightly higher volume filling (75%), larger irregularly shaped Ag nanocrystals that appeared to be the result of coalescence and grain growth were observed. Finally, a composite theory developed by Tandon and Weng was used to estimate various elastic properties of the nanocomposite films. At high metal filling, the reinforcing effect of the Ag nanoparticles was reflected as approximately a sixfold increase in the elastic modulus compared to the virgin polymer film. Possible applications of such ultra-fine metal nanoparticles networks are discussed.
Myths about moths: a study in contrasts.

The phenomenon of industrial melanism is the preeminent example of natural selection in textbooks and the popular media. Much of its fame stems from a set of pioneering and apparently definitive investigations by H.B.D. ‘Bernard’ Kettlewell in the early 1950s. There is a marked contrast in how the phenomenon and Kettlewell's work on it are perceived by the public and scientists. Tensions between these two perceptions have recently led to calls for the removal of the example from textbooks, and indeed allegations that Kettlewell committed fraud. This article (part of the Science in the Industrial Revolution series) will show that these charges are baseless and stem from a fundamental misunderstanding of the nature of science as a process.
The cost-effectiveness of misoprostol for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug-associated adverse gastrointestinal events.

Objective. To compare, in a Canadian health care setting, the costs and consequences of 3 strategies of misoprostol prophylaxis for osteoarthritis patients: prophylaxis for all patients taking nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), for no patients taking NSAIDs, and for only elderly patients (age ≥60) taking NSAIDs. Methods. We designed a decision-analysis model which incorporated costs (estimated with ulcer patient profiles and medical records), review, and probabilities (estimated from a companion metaanalysis, selected literature review, and Ontario Ministry of Health Statistics). Effectiveness was defined as the number of episodes of gastric ulceration requiring hospitalization or outpatient management that were averted by each strategy. Results. On average, prophylaxis cost an additional $650 for every additional gastrointestinal event prevented. Prophylaxis for elderly NSAID users was cost saving if the ulcer complication rate in this group exceeds 1.2%, or if either the charges for outpatient ulcer treatment exceed $2,000, or the 3-month price of misoprostol is ≤90. Conclusion. Our results demonstrate that, in this setting, misoprostol prophylaxis may be highly cost effective.
A model for the dynamic mechanical properties of arteries

Abstract A phenomenological model is used to represent the frequency dependence of the mechanical properties of arteries. The model was tested on mechanical properties data derived from simultaneous measurements of intra-arterial pressure and external diameter from surgically exposed femoral arteries of anesthetized dogs. The average values and standard errors of the viscoelastic data for control experiments were: Young's modulus, 18·0 × 10 6 (±1·2) dyn/cm 2 ; modulus ratio, 1·4(±0·1); and radius/wall thickness ratio, 5·2(±0·4) at a mean blood pressure of 137(±5) mm Hg. It was found that a model consisting of a spring in series with a Voigt element adequately represented data from experiments where the fundamental heart frequency was 2 Hz or more. But when the latter was 1 Hz or less, 2 Voigt elements, of different time constants, in series with the spring were necessary to represent the data. The reason for this observation was that in the low heart rate experiments there are a larger number of significant harmonics present in the pressure and diameter records and as a result more extensive data were available for analysis. The values of the various viscoelastic parameters obtained from this work were found to be in reasonable agreement with data in the literature.
Third‐person perception and school violence

The study is the first of its kind to study third‐person perception within the context of school violence. Linkages to the health psychology literature (optimistic bias) provide the basis for further understanding of adolescents’ perceptions of school violence and the influence of media violence in their lives. Results from a survey of 1,500 middle school and high school students suggest third‐person perception regarding media violence decreases with age, and is influenced by perceived reality of media violence, optimistic bias, and knowledge of real world youth violence.
Discovery and biochemical characterization of selective ATP competitive inhibitors of the human mitotic kinesin KSP

The kinesin spindle protein (KSP, also known as Eg5) is essential for the proper separation of spindle poles during mitosis, and inhibition results in mitotic arrest and the formation of characteristic monoaster spindles. Several distinct classes of KSP inhibitors have been described previously in the public and patent literature. However, most appear to share a common induced-fit allosteric binding site, suggesting a common mechanism of inhibition. In a high-throughput screen for inhibitors of KSP, a novel class of thiazole-containing inhibitors was identified. Unlike the previously described allosteric KSP inhibitors, the thiazoles described here show ATP competitive kinetic behavior, consistent with binding within the nucleotide binding pocket. Although they bind to a pocket that is highly conserved across kinesins, these molecules exhibit significant selectivity for KSP over other kinesins and other ATP-utilizing enzymes. Several of these compounds are active in cells and produce a phenotype similar to that observed with previously published allosteric inhibitors of KSP.
Effects of atractyloside and palmitoyl coenzyme A on calcium transport in cardiac mitochondria.

Abstract Palmitoyl CoA (PCoA) and the adenine translocase inhibitor atractyloside (ATR) appear to produce a similar effect in discharging accumulated calcium from cardiac mitochondria. Although mitochondrial respiration is stimulated upon addition of either PCoA or ATR to preparations preloaded with calcium, the effect is not the same as that produced by classical uncouplers. PCoA and ATR also do not interfere with respiration-supported calcium uptake by mitochondria. The presence of exogenous ATP can prevent the calcium discharging effects of PCoA or ATR. Carnitine will prevent the PCoA calcium discharging effect, but has no effect on ATR-induced discharge. It is suggested the PCoA may act at a site on or near the adenine translocase, perhaps through allosteric interaction, to produce an efflux of calcium from mitochondria. The results also suggest that the internal adenine nucleotide pool plays a significant role in mitochondrial calcium retention.
Approaches to Study Creative and Multitalent Perception

The article examines creativity and talent of individuals that can be identified from perceptions of themselves. The author describes two instruments that may be used to measure such predispositions. Several problems studied with these instruments at home and abroad are presented. In conclusion a number of uses are suggested for the instruments.
Speciation in the computing sciences: digital forensics as an emerging academic discipline

In evolutionary terms, speciation occurs when members of a species, pressured by the environment, diverge to the point where they are recognizable as separate species. This paper explores the concept as applied to Digital Forensics as a distinct academic discipline from other computing sciences. What are the pressures that have resulted in the emergence of Digital Forensics, how might the domain be defined and, what interdisciplinary connections does Digital Forensics have?This paper examines the domain content of Digital Forensics and its potential in the development of viable undergraduate and graduate degree programs to satisfy professional and scholarly demand.
Plasma secretin concentrations and gastric pH in healthy subjects and patients with digestive diseases.

Plasma secretin concentrations were determined in healthy subjects and patients with duodenal ulcer, achlorhydria, and celiac sprue. Mean fasting plasma secretin concentrations in 26 healthy subjects and 26 duodenal ulcer patients were 6.7±0.5 and 10.2±1.2 pg/ml, respectively, and were significantly different (P<0.02). After ingestion of a standard meat meal, pyloric pH decreased to less than 4.5 within 15 min and plasma secretin concentrations significantly increased in all 52 subjects. In 14 subjects (seven healthy subjects and seven patients with duodenal ulcer), no significant rise in plasma secretin concentration occurred when pyloric pH was maintained at greater than 5.0 by intravenous cimetidine (600 mg) and intragastric antacid. In 10 achlorhydric patients, intragastric pH remained greater than 5.0 after the meal and plasma secretin concentrations did not change. However, plasma secretin concentrations increased significantly when 0.1 N HCl was infused in the stomach (25 mEq/hr) during the postprandial period. In all eight adult patients with celiac disease (seven untreated, one partially treated), pyloric pH remained less than 4.0 after a meal. Postprandial secretin concentrations did not increase significantly in six and showed a transient rise in two. These studies show that (1) plasma secretin concentration increases significantly after meals in healthy subjects and patients with duodenal ulcer; (2) neutralization of gastric acid and the achlorhydric state show no significant postprandial rise in plasma secretin concentration; (3) achlorhydric patients do not have a defect in secretin release in response to acid; and (4) failure of postprandial rise in plasma secretin in patients with celiac disease is attributed to impaired release of secretin and in achlorhydric patients it is attributed to lack of acid secretion.
The biologic significance of the aldosterone concentration in saliva.

Summary: Salivary aldosterone measurements can be used to study aldosterone secretion and metabolism noninvasively. Salvia and plasma aldosterone concentration were highly correlated during all periods of study; during adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) administration, a relatively greater amount of aldosterone appeared in saliva; during dexamethasone administration, a relatively smaller amount of aldosterone appeared in saliva. As plasma cortisol increased with ACTH administration there was an increased relative amount of aldosterone in saliva. DOC (11-deoxycorticosterone) was found in saliva only during ACTH administration. Corticosterone was identified during baseline periods. Salivary aldosterone concentrations were independent of flow. The data indicate that saliva is an accessible bodily fluid which may be used to monitor the changes in nonprotein bound plasma steroid hormone concentration in children. Speculation: Saliva is an accessible bodily fluid which may be used to monitor the changes in nonprotein bound plasma aldosterone concentration and other steroidal hormones.
Pleasure and Fit in Kant's Aesthetics

In the third Critique Kant shifts the focus in his enquiry from the status of factual statements in the Critique of Pure Reason and the grounding of moral imperatives in the Critique of Practical Reason to investigating two methods of considering the world which go beyond the strictly verifiable. This is a move from evaluating the interplay of a ‘determinate’ set of facts and intellectual preconditions to forming what Kant calls ‘reflective’ judgements on these facts. There are two major questions which the Critique of Judgement tackles. On the one hand Kant ambitiously considers how we might properly interpret a set of facts as comprising a larger teleological system and, on the other hand, he is interested in the seemingly quite separate issue of the appreciation of objects as beautiful. It is this latter issue which shall concern us here. Consistent with the reflective stand in the third Critique, Kant argues from the very outset that beauty is not an empirical concept with which we might describe the world. Beauty is not objective in the sense that size, colour or weight might be. Objective properties of this kind belong to the world of scientific understanding. Instead, he holds that judgements of aesthetic merit should be based upon the subjective pleasure we take in experiencing works of art and natural objects.
Repair of Right Ventricular Free Wall Defect with a Pedicled Muscle Flap

A unique case of repair of a full-thickness cardiac defect and simultaneous reconstruction of an infected median sternotomy wound is presented. A right ventricular defect, 6 cm in diameter, was closed with a fascia lata graft and reinforced with a rectus abdominis muscle flap. The superior portion of the mediastinum was obliterated with a pectoralis major muscle flap. The patient tolerated the procedure well and remains free of cardiac symptoms seven months postoperatively, with no evidence of residual infection.
Ultrastructural observations of amorphous bone mineral in avian bone

Mineral from medullary bone of three avian species was examined with the electron microscope in order to clarify the ultrastructure of amorphous bone mineral (ABM) in a mineralized tissue. Powders from freeze-dried bone revealed bone mineral with morphology and behavior identical to synthetic amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP). These powders exhibited spherically shaped particles 180--400 A in diameter with uniform electron density when viewed at low beam intensity. Thin sections of embedded freeze-dried bone also revealed spherically shaped particles 100--350 A in diameter with electron beam sensitivity characteristic of ACP. Regions of bone mineral with irregular outline and morphology were observed which closely resemble the discoidal form of synthetic ACP. More electron-dense spherical particles (150 A in diameter) could be seen budding from these regions. Some of these buds exhibited electronlucent centers characteristic of AMB. The inorganic nature of these features of bone mineral was confirmed using ultramicroincineration. Preliminary exploration of a freeze-substitution technique showed spherical bone mineral particles which were similar in morphology to those observed in freeze-dried samples. A limited degree of preservation of cellular material was observed using this freeze-substitution technique.
Inadequate treatment of syphilis in pregnancy

Pregnant women with untreated syphilis have high rates of adverse pregnancy outcome. Early syphilis in pregnancy, if not treated, results in 40% loss either by spontaneous abortions, stillbirth, or perinatal death. Another 40% of such pregnancies result in an infant born with congenital syphilis. Only 20% of such pregnancies result in a normal infant. Currently recommended treatment of early syphilis in pregnant women uses a dosage of 2.4 million U of benzathine penicillin G. Because of the potentially disastrous effect syphilis has on pregnancy outcome, the occurrence of any treatment failure must be considered seriously. In this brief report we present clinical summaries of four pregnant women treated for syphilis who represent probable treatment failures.
Using Optimal Foraging Models to Evaluate Learned Robotic Foraging Behavior

A key challenge in designing robot teams is determining how to allocate team members to specific roles according to their abilities and the demands of the environment. In this paper we explore this issue in the context of multi-robot foraging, and we show that optimal foraging theory can be used to evaluate our work in learned multi-robot foraging tasks. We present a means by which members of a multi-robot team may use reinforcement learning to allocate themselves to specific foraging roles appropriate to their environment and their abilities. We test this approach in environments with different distributions of various types of attractors and by varying the relative effectiveness of different foraging strategies. We then examine the effectiveness of the algorithm by comparing the distributions learned by the individual robots to those predicted by several optimal foraging models. We show the resulting learned distributions are substantially similar to those predicted by the optimal foraging theory models.
Motoneuronal insensitivity in extraverts as revealed by the startle response paradigm

Abstract The present research was designed both to examine possible differences between extraverts and introverts in motoneuronal sensitivity to gradations in stimulus intensity, and to investigate the utility of the startle response paradigm in the area of individual differences. Startle stimuli, 85 dB(A) SPL and 60 dB(A) SPL noise bursts, were presented with and without a 50 dB(A) SPL prepulse to subjects low and high in extraversion, as defined by scores on the Eysenck Personality Inventory (Eysenck & Eysenck, 1968; Manual for the Eysenck Personality Inventory. San Diego, CA: ITS). Startle response latency revealed that introverts responded more quickly to the 85 dB(A) SPL stimuli than to the 60 dB(A) SPL stimuli, whereas extraverts responded equally rapidly to stimuli at both levels of intensity. There was no effect of extraversion on response amplitude or probability. Response amplitude was significantly inhibited by the prepulse in the 85 dB(A) SPL condition, but not in the 60 dB(A) SPL condition. Response probability was inhibited more in the 85 dB(A) SPL condition than in the 60 dB(A) SPL condition. Response latency was not affected by the prepulse. The results of the present study are discussed in terms of indiscriminate polysynaptic motoneuronal responding to different levels of stimulus intensity processed at the brainstem in extraverts, as well as in terms of the results found by Pivik, Stelmack and Bylsma (1988; Psychophysiology, 25, 16–24), showing reduced motoneuronal excitability in extraverts.
ASSESSMENT CENTERS—VALID OR MERELY PRESCIENT

Published validation studies of assessment centers are reviewed with respect to criteria used, staff composition, and the number of organizations involved. Impressive, consistent results are noted, but a trend is identified: Acceptance of the method is based on relatively few studies, conducted by fewer organizations, using a limited range of criteria. It is argued that perhaps the assessment center staff is evaluating candidates based on its familiarity with the preferences of the decision makers who will actually promote, thus merely duplicating already existing decision procedures. What is needed are comparative predictive studies incorporating alternative predictors and criteria.
A novel method to converge to the unstable equilibrium point for a two-bus system

This paper presents a novel method for calculating the unstable equilibrium point (UEP) for a two-bus system using holomorphic embedding (HE). The method is guaranteed to find the UEP solution. The focus of this paper is to prove mathematically that if a UEP solution exists, the method is guaranteed to arrive at that and only that solution and if no solution exists, then such is indicated by the oscillations is the series form of the solution. While there is limited interest in the solution to a two-bus problem, this is hopefully a first fruitful step that can eventually be generalized to the multi-bus problem and, possibly, other non-linear equations.
Decay estimates for oscillatory integrals with polynomial phase in terms of p(n−3) and p(n−2) or in terms of p(n−2) and p(n−1)

Abstract We obtain estimates for certain oscillatory integrals with polynomial (degree n) phase, p(t). These estimates are stated in terms of differences between the roots, real or complex, of p(n−3)(t) and p(n−2)(t) or between p(n−2)(t) and p(n−1)(t). The sharpness of these results is also explored. This result is a partial generalization of the results found in [J. Math. Anal. Appl. 280 (2003) 424].
The terminology of the soul (attā): A psychiatric recasting.

Among all the beliefs of the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, none has stirred more controversy than theanattā doctrine. This teaching suggests that nowhere can a substantial self be apprehended. On the contrary, belief in a fixed, unitive self is to be regarded as an ineluctable condition for the emergence of suffering (dukkha). Only when such a truth is grasped by means of wisdom (pannā) can the perennial peace of Nibbāna be found. By providing a model of understanding drawn mainly from psychoanalytic and clinical practice, this essay purports to illumine the pathology of exaggerated self-entitlement (narcissism) rampant during the age of the historical Buddha, and the latter's reaction against it by means of theanattā doctrine.
Using the AUDIT-PC to Predict Alcohol Withdrawal in Hospitalized Patients

BACKGROUND Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) occurs when alcohol-dependent individuals abruptly reduce or stop drinking. Hospitalized alcohol-dependent patients are at risk. Hospitals need a validated screening tool to assess withdrawal risk, but no validated tools are currently available.
Identification of a flexor digitorum accessorius longus muscle with unique distal attachments

During a cadaver dissection in a gross anatomy course, a flexor digitorum accessorius longus (FDAL) muscle was identified. The FDAL was a unilateral, two-headed, multipennate muscle originating from the flexor retinaculum, deep fascia, and calcaneus. The muscle bodies fused into one tendon and coursed distally where slips were observed inserting into the flexor digitorum longus tendon and the flexor hallicus longus tendon. A survey of the literature revealed that an FDAL may be present in approximately 15% of the general population. Our results concerning the FDAL suggest the need for clinicians to recognize the occurrence and variability of accessory leg and ankle muscles, and to use available technology such as MRI to assist with the diagnosis and treatment of compressive neuropathies of the foot.
Photoluminescence Enhancement from a Single Nitrogen Vacancy Center in a Nanodiamond Crystal via a Metal Nanoantenna

We theoretically investigate the photoluminescence enhancement from a single nitrogen-vacancy center in nanodiamond using 3D metallic nanoantennas. The results allow us to engineer optimal nanoantenna structures for enhancement of the photoluminescence.
If you aspire to be a great place to work, you've set the bar too low

Purpose – This paper outlines the attributes that contribute to making companies, the best to work for.Design/methodology/approach – Views and opinions of the authorFindings – It may be possible for employers to achieve greater harmony by shifting the focus from becoming a great place to attracting great employees and treating them with honor and respect once they sign on with you. They may give you the moon in return.Originality/value – Highlights the importance of considering employees as interacting components of the business.
Barcodes: The persistent topology of data

This article surveys recent work of Carlsson and collaborators on applications of computational algebraic topology to problems of feature detection and shape recognition in high-dimensional data. The primary mathematical tool considered is a homology theory for point-cloud data sets — persistent homology — and a novel representation of this algebraic characterization — barcodes. We sketch an application of these techniques to the classification of natural images. 1. The shape of data When a topologist is asked, “How do you visualize a four-dimensional object?” the appropriate response is a Socratic rejoinder: “How do you visualize a threedimensional object?” We do not see in three spatial dimensions directly, but rather via sequences of planar projections integrated in a manner that is sensed if not comprehended. We spend a significant portion of our first year of life learning how to infer three-dimensional spatial data from paired planar projections. Years of practice have tuned a remarkable ability to extract global structure from representations in a strictly lower dimension. The inference of global structure occurs on much finer scales as well, with regards to converting discrete data into continuous images. Dot-matrix printers, scrolling LED tickers, televisions, and computer displays all communicate images via arrays of discrete points which are integrated into coherent, global objects. This also is a skill we have practiced from childhood. No adult does a dot-to-dot puzzle with anything approaching anticipation. 1.1. Topological data analysis. Problems of data analysis share many features with these two fundamental integration tasks: (1) how does one infer high dimensional structure from low dimensional representations; and (2) how does one assemble discrete points into global structure. The principal themes of this survey of the work of Carlsson, de Silva, Edelsbrunner, Harer, Zomorodian, and others are the following: (1) It is beneficial to replace a set of data points with a family of simplicial complexes, indexed by a proximity parameter. This converts the data set into global topological objects. (2) It is beneficial to view these topological complexes through the lens of algebraic topology — specifically, via a novel theory of persistent homology adapted to parameterized families. (3) It is beneficial to encode the persistent homology of a data set in the form of a parameterized version of a Betti number: a barcode. The author gratefully acknowledges the support of DARPA # HR0011-07-1-0002. The work reviewed in this article is funded by the DARPA program TDA: Topological Data Analysis.
Effect of pressure on electrical resistance of Pd82−xVxSi18 metallic glasses

Abstract Measurements have been made of the effect of hydrostatic pressure to 10 kbar, at room ambient temperatures, on the electrical resistance of a series of Pd82−xVxSi18 metallic glasses with x varying from 0 to 6 at.%. These glasses show positive temperature coefficients of resistance at low vanadium concentrations, varying monotonically to negative coefficients at high concentrations. It is found that, independent of vanadium concentration, the pressure coefficient of resistance of all the glasses is identically zero to one part in 104, indicating that the pressure derivative of the logarithm of the resistivity is exactly equal to the negative of the linear compressibility. The implication of this result with respect to theoretical models is discussed; only the Ziman liquid metal model provides a consistent explanation.
Hemicraniectomy for Massive Middle Cerebral Artery Territory Infarction: A Systematic Review

Background and Purpose— Hemicraniectomy and durotomy have been proposed in many small series to relieve intracranial hypertension and tissue shifts in patients with large hemispheric infarcts, thereby preventing death from herniation. Our objective was to review the literature to identify patients most likely to benefit from hemicraniectomy. Methods— All available individual cases from the English literature were reviewed and analyzed to determine whether age, vascular territory of infarction, side of infarction, reported time to surgery, and signs of herniation predict outcome in patients after hemicraniectomy. All studies included were retrospective and uncontrolled; there were no randomized controlled trials. Results— Of 15 studies screened, 12 studies describing 129 patients met the criteria for analysis; 9 patients treated at our institution were added, for a total of 138 patients. After a minimum follow-up of 4 months, 10 patients (7%) were functionally independent, 48 (35%) were mildly to moderately disabled, and 80 (58%) died or were severely disabled. Of 75 patients who were >50 years of age, 80% were dead or severely disabled compared with 32% of 63 patients ≤50 years of age ( P <0.00001). The timing of surgery, hemisphere infarcted, presence of signs of herniation before surgery, and involvement of other vascular territories did not significantly affect outcome. Conclusions— Age may be a crucial factor in predicting functional outcome after hemicraniectomy in patients with large middle cerebral artery territory infarction.
The Effects of Estimation Period, Industry, and Proxy on the Calculation of the Degree of Operating Leverage

Much diversity exists in the approaches used by finance researchers to estimate a firm's degree of operating leverage (DOL). This diversity is partially attributable to the lack of accessible accounting data suitable for the calculations. As a result, researchers have devised various proxies for the degree of operating leverage from whatever accounting data are externally available. This paper examines the effects of estimation period, industry, and proxy on the calculation of DOL. The analyses indicate that the various proxies for DOL exhibit both conceptual and empirical differences that are generally consistent across industries and over estimation periods.