cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A two-scale modeling of motion-induced fluid release from thin fibrous porous media

Abstract In this work, a two-scale two-phase modeling methodology is presented for studying fluid release from saturated/unsaturated thin fibrous media when brought in contact with a moving solid surface. Our macroscale model is based on the Richards’ equation for two-phase fluid transport in porous media. The required constitutive relationships, capillary pressure and relative permeability as functions of medium's saturation, are obtained through microscale modeling. At microscales, a 3-D model based on fiber diameter, fiber orientation, and medium's solid volume fraction (SVF), is generated to resemble the internal structure of the fibrous sheets and be used in full-morphology analysis as well as microscale permeability simulation. A mass convection boundary condition is considered here to model the fluid transport at the boundary in contact with the target surface. It was shown that the mass convection coefficient, k f , plays a significant role in determining the release rate and is expected to be in the range of 10 - 6 k f 10 - 9 , depending on the properties of the fluid, fibrous sheet, the target surface as well as the speed of the relative motion, and remains to be determined experimentally.
Impact of U.S. Citizenship status on cancer screening among immigrant women

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the relationship between U.S. citizenship status and the receipt of Pap smears and mammograms among immigrant women in California.
Statistical Analysis of Hippocampal Asymmetry in Schizophrenia

The asymmetry of brain structures has been studied in schizophrenia to better understand its underlying neurobiology. Brain regions of interest have previously been characterized by volumes, cross-sectional and surface areas, and lengths. Using high-dimensional brain mapping, we have developed a statistical method for analyzing patterns of left-right asymmetry of the human hippocampus taken from high-resolution MR scans. We introduce asymmetry measures that capture differences in the patterns of high-dimensional vector fields between the left and right hippocampus surfaces. In 15 pairs of subjects previously studied (J. G. Csernansky et al., 1998, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 95, 11406-11411). we define the difference in hippocampal asymmetry patterns between the groups. Volume analysis indicated a large normative asymmetry between left and right hippocampus (R > L), and shape analysis allowed us to visualize the normative asymmetry pattern of the hippocampal surfaces. We observed that the right hippocampus was wider along its lateral side in both schizophrenia and control subjects. Also, while patterns of hippocampal asymmetry were generally similar in the schizophrenia and control groups, a principal component analysis based on left-right asymmetry vector fields detected a statistically significant difference between the two groups, specifically related to the subiculum.
Electrocatalysis with ferrocyanide electrostatically trapped in an alkylaminesiloxane polymer film on a Pt electrode

Abstract A procedure is described whereby thin films of an alkylamine-siloxane polymer can be formed on Pt electrode surfaces. The polymer film strongly partition ferrocyanide ion from aqueous pH 3.2 electrolyte, and electrochemical reaction of the trapped ferrocyanide ions can be stably observed. Kinetics of two electrocatalytic reactions are described. One is the electron self-exchange between neighbor ferrocyanide and ferricyanide ions by which electrochemical charge becomes transported through the multimolecular-layer film. The second is the oxidation of ascorbic acid by ferricyanide electrogenerated in the film. Both reactions exhibit rate constants in the polymer film which are larger than those of the analogous homogeneous solution reaction.
The Effect of Nose Drops on an Acute Sinusitis: An Experimental Study in the Rabbit:

An animal model was developed to study the effect of nose drops on an acute sinusitis. Leukocyte-stimulating n-formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (FMLP) was added to polyvinyl sponges and placed ...
MBE of ZnSe Alloys to Achieve Room Temperature CW Laser Diodes

Issues related to the growth and characterizations of II–VI blue-green laser diodes are reviewed. The development of the Zn(Se, Te) graded contact scheme to p-ZnSe is found to be effective in supporting the room-temperature CW operation of green (508 nm) laser diodes with a threshold voltage of 5.8 V. Compositional control of the ZnMgSSe cladding layers and the reduction of nonradiative point defects in the ZnCdSe quantum wells will be discussed. The observation of persistent photoconductivity in nitrogen-doped p-ZnMgSSe at low temperature is reported. The increase of conductivity after illumination appears due to a metastable population of holes which are in thermodynamic equilibrium with hydrogenic acceptors having reduced activation energy. The experimental evidence suggests the presence of a DX-like behavior for holes.
The Hunt for Martín Caballero

Abstract While the success of Colombia's fight against illegal armed groups, led by Fuerzas armadas revolucionarias de Colombia – ejercito del pueblo (FARC-EP), is generally lauded as evidence of the effectiveness of both COIN doctrine and security assistance, the configuration of Colombia's counter-insurgency effort remains largely unstudied. This article will explain the success of one of those campaigns carried out principally by the Colombian marines (Colmar) in an area of northern Colombia known as the Montes de Maria. Contingent factors shaped the success of this campaign, beginning with the fact that the Montes de Maria forms an area where insurgents, relative late comers to the region, found it difficult to put down deep roots. However, operations to eradicate them were complicated by the inexperience of the Colmar, and by constraints placed by Colombia's Constitutional Court on COIN methods modeled on those successfully applied by the British in Malaya and Kenya. Therefore, Colmar officers initia...
In vitro synergy testing of anidulafungin with itraconazole, voriconazole, and amphotericin B against Aspergillus spp. and Fusarium spp

The in vitro interactions of anidulafungin with itraconazole, voriconazole, and amphotericin B were evaluated by using the checkerboard method. For Aspergillus spp., anidulafungin with amphotericin B showed indifference for 16/26 isolates, while anidulafungin with either azole showed a synergy trend for 18/26 isolates. All drug combinations showed indifference for 7/7 Fusarium sp. isolates.
Reply to "acute sinusitis and pharyngitis as inappropriate indications for antibiotic use".

We thank Drs. Sanchez and Hicks for [their constructive comments][1], which underscore current limitations of diagnostic coding data ([1][2], [2][3]). While we were not able to determine with certainty if patients were immunocompromised, we excluded any patient admitted to the hospital, which likely
Laser-Based Studies Of Chemical Vapor Deposition

W. G. Breiland, M. E. Coltrin, Pauline HoSandia National Laboratories, Division 1126Albuquerque, New Mexico 87185AbstractPulsed laser -Raman spectroscopy and laser -excited fluorescence have been used to profilereactive species concentrations inside a chemical vapor deposition cell. Experimentaldata and theoretical calculations indicate that gas -phase chemical kinetics plays animportant role in the deposition process.IntroductionThe chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process has been developed into a very sophisticatedand widely -used technological tool. However, very little is known about the fundamentalphysical and chemical mechanisms that are responsible for CVD film growth. As CVD pro-cesses become more complicated, and as film -property tolerances become more stringent,it will be increasingly difficult to optimize experimental conditions using the standardempirical methods that have been successful in the past. A fundamental understanding ofthe CVD process, coupled with accurate diagnostic techniques, would greatly accelerate theoptimization procedure and could also lead to novel deposition methods. We are currentlydeveloping experimental techniques for in -situ measurement of the reactive chemical speciesconcentrations in a CVD reactor. This effort is closely coupled to a theoretical programaimed at developing a realistic, predictive model based on basic laws of physics andchemistry. Our current efforts are directed at defining the role that gas -phase fluiddynamics and gas -phase chemistry play in the deposition mechanism. We have found that gas -phase chemical kinetics is more important than has been previously recognized.Analytical measurements inside a CVD reactor during deposition pose a difficult chal-lenge to the experimentalist. The ideal probe for such measurements must be non -intrusive,selective, sensitive enough to measure sub -torr partial pressures, quantitative, general,and capable of high spatial resolution in the presence of rapidly changing chemical andtemperature fields. Optical methods that employ a crossed -beam arrangement such as Ramanspectroscopy and laser- excited fluorescence come very close to meeting all these require-
Monte carlo studies on equilibrium globular protein folding. III. The four helix bundle

The nature of the equilibrium conformational transition from the denatured state to a four-member alpha-helical bundle was studied employing a dynamic Monte Carlo algorithm in which the model protein chain was confined to a tetrahedral lattice. The model chain was allowed to hunt over all phase space, the target native state was not assumed a priori, and no site-specific interactions were introduced. The exterior vs the interior part of the protein is distinguished by the pattern of hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions encoded into the primary sequence. The importance of a statistical preference for forming bends, as a function of bend location in the primary sequence, and helical wheel type cooperative interactions were examined, and the necessary conditions for collapse of the chain to the unique native structure were investigated. It was found that an amphipathic pattern of hydrophobic/hydrophilic interactions along with a statistical preference of the central residues for bend formation are sufficient to obtain the four-helix bundle. The transition to the native state has an all-or-none character.
Restoration and pore sealing of low-k films by UV-assisted processes

Porous low-k dielectrics are susceptible to damages by steps such as etch, ash, and CMP in the BEOL process flow. Such damages degrade the structural and electrical properties of low-k materials. To uphold the value of integrating low-k dielectrics, restoration processes are needed to repair such damages. In this work, UV-assisted silylation is used to repair damages and restore properties of porous low-k dielectrics. The repair process is able to restore carbon content, as indicated by the increase in water contact angle (WCA), and restore the electrical properties, as shown by the decrease in dielectric constant (k) and increase in break-down electrical field based on blanket-film data. On structured wafers, the post-etch repair process effects a 4–6% reduction in RC when compared to without repair. The same UV-assisted platform may be used to effect pore sealing to prevent metals used in BEOL metallization from penetrating into porous low-k materials. On structured wafers, the pore-sealing process is able to reduce Mn penetration into porous low-k when ALD MnN is used as the copper barrier.
Coronal heating due to the emergence of magnetic flux

A self-consistent time-dependent, two-dimensional MHD model with a realistic energy equation is developed to understand the origin of bright coronal emission accompanying the occurrence of a new bipolar magnetic region. The motivation for this study is the interpretation of anticipated observations to be made by the SOHO mission.
A preliminary investigation of family coping styles and psychological well-being among adolescent survivors of Hurricane Katrina

The relation between family coping styles and psychological well-being was compared for adolescents (12-17 years) displaced by Hurricane Katrina and currently living in a relocation camp (n = 50) and nonaffected adolescents (n = 31) matched on age, race, and socioeconomic status. Adolescents in the Katrina sample reported a family mobilizing strategy that reflected an increased reliance and seeking of extra-familial, community-based support but lower self-esteem and more symptoms of distress and depression. Follow-up analyses suggested that the relations between group differences in participants' hurricane-related trauma experiences and greater psychological distress may be mediated in part by the family coping strategy; exposure to increased levels of community-provided support may have unintended consequences on adolescents' psychological health. These results highlight the importance of future research on both potential benefits and costs of family coping styles in adolescents affected by a large-scale disaster.
Evolution of the clinical electrocardiogram.

To place this unique noninvasive technique in its proper perspective, it would seem appropriate that this brief review begin with the history of electrocardiography and include comments regarding its sensitivity and specificity, its role as a marker for heart disease, as a clue to anatomic, metabolic and hemodynamic abnormalities, its role as the reference standard for the diagnosis and study of arrhythmias, its contribution to research and the issues facing electrocardiography
Anemia, Blood Transfusion, and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Cardiovascular Risk Factors

SUMMARy Increasing evidence indicates that patients known to have cardiovascular risk factors who are anemic should be managed differently from patients not known to be at risk. Clinical studies of patients in critical care units, patients in cardiac care units with acute myocardial infarction, and in Jehovah's Witness patients undergoing surgical procedures have demonstrated that patients at risk suffer adverse clinical consequences with moderate to severe anemia. Studies in a number of clinical settings indicate that morbidity and mortality can be improved with aggressive management of anemia.
Contraceptive use and the role of contraceptive counseling in reproductive-aged women with cancer☆☆☆

Abstract Objective Few data on contraceptive choices in women with cancer exist. Contraception is challenging for women with cancer, particularly those with breast cancer, who are limited to nonhormonal methods. This study characterized contraceptive use during cancer treatment in a group of reproductive-aged women with a recent cancer diagnosis and assessed the impact of contraceptive counseling on the methods they selected. Study Design Cross-sectional, survey study of reproductive-aged women at a large tertiary care health system with a recent cancer diagnosis. Results A total of 107 women completed the survey. Eighty-two women reported 101 contraceptive choices. Twenty-seven percent (27/101) of all methods selected were Tier I/II, and 35% (35/101) were Tier III/IV. Only 4 used an intrauterine device (IUD). Among women reporting sexual activity after diagnosis, 19 (27%) of 71 reported using Tier I/II methods, 21 (30%) of 71 reported using Tier III/IV methods, 16 (23%) of 71 reported abstinence and 10 (14%) of 71 reported using no method. Factors significantly associated with Tier I/II use in the multivariable model included not having a college degree [odds ratio (OR) 0.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.05–0.92, p=.038], intercourse during treatment (OR 5.92, 95% CI 1.48–23.66, p=.012) and non-breast cancer (OR 3.60, 95% CI 1.03–12.64, p=.046). Report of contraceptive counseling was positively associated with Tier I/II contraceptive use during cancer treatment (OR 6.92, 95% CI 1.14–42.11, p=.036). Conclusion Reproductive-aged women diagnosed with cancer underutilized Tier I/II contraceptive agents, especially IUDs. Contraceptive counseling by physicians increases contraceptive use, particularly methods most effective at preventing pregnancy. Implications The study uniquely described the contraceptive practices of over 100 women with cancer. The study sample commonly reported abstinence and use of contraceptive methods with high failure rates. Our data suggest that contraceptive counseling from a health care provider may increase use of more effective methods among women with cancer.
Patient perception of pain care in hospitals in the United States

Study objective Assessment of patients’ perception of pain control in hospitals in the United States.
Therapeutically targeting leukemia stem cells

Comment on Taussig et al, page [4086][1] In the current issue of Blood, Taussig and colleagues demonstrate that cell surface markers previously thought restricted to mature myeloid cells are expressed on both normal hematopoietic stem cells and leukemia stem cells. The hypothesis that a rare
Association of diabetes mellitus and disorders of the anterior pituitary, thyroid and adrenal cortex.

Abstract As is true in the experimental animal, the behavior of diabetes mellitus in the human may be markedly altered by either hypofunctioning or hyperfunctioning lesions of the anterior pituitary, thyroid or adrenal cortex. In general, hypofunctioning lesions of these glands of internal secretion ameliorate existing diabetes while hyperfunctioning lesions intensify it. Hyperfunction of the anterior pituitary due to eosinophilic adenoma, or of the adrenal cortex due to tumor or hyperplasia may apparently be the sole cause of diabetes in rare cases. Ten cases in which diabetes mellitus was associated with hypofunctioning and hyper-functioning lesions of the aforementioned glands have been presented. The basic physiology concerned in the alteration of the diabetic state by such lesions has been considered briefly. It is emphasized that the observations which were made in these cases are not applicable to the majority of cases of diabetes, in which evidences of endocrine disease other than the diabetes itself are usually absent.
The effects of reinforcement additions and heat treatment on the evolution of the Poisson ratio during straining of discontinuously reinforced aluminum alloys

The effects of reinforcement additions and heat treatment on the evolution of the Poisson ratio were determined for a 7xxx aluminum alloy reinforced with 15 vol pct SiCp, a 2xxx alloy with 20 pct SiCp, and a 2014 alloy with 15 pct A12O3. The Poisson ratio of the monolithic alloy was 0.31 to 0.32 in the elastic regime. At the onset of the plastic regime, the Poisson ratio of the monolithic materials rose rapidly to about 0.45 and then gradually increased to 0.47 by 3.5 pct strain. For discontinuously reinforced aluminum (DRA) materials, the Poisson ratio in the elastic regime was considerably lower than that exhibited by the matrix alloy, while the magnitude of the difference was dependent upon the type, volume fraction, and elastic properties of the reinforcement. In addition, th evolution of the Poisson ratio for DRA material depends upon heat treatment and level of strain due to damage evolution(e.g., SiCp cracking, matrix failure,etc.) which accompanies straining in these materials. Both the magnitude and extent of change in the Poisson ratio with increasing strain in the composite is rationalized by the accumulation of damage which accompanies increasing strain.
Nondiffusive spreading of wave packets in the surface state electron model

Abstract The quantum dynamics of minimum uncertainty wave packets in a system described by the surface-state-electron (SSE) Hamiltonian are studied. The quantum evolution is found to be strongly dependent upon the orbit structure in the classical phase space. A Gaussian wave packet initially centered on the part of the phase space incased by KAM tori remains localized, while the packets located in the chaotic region spread rapidly, filling the available phase space. To quantify the observed spreading quantum uncertainty is introduced as a dynamical variable, its time development is determined by the ballistic growth of the position uncertainty and the erratic oscillations of the momentum uncertainty. Further, the classical concept of diffusion previously used in this context is shown to be inappropriate.
The osmoregulation of vasopressin.

The concept that secretion of the antidiuretic hormone, arginine vasopressin, is regulated by the osmolality of body water originated with the pioneering studies of Verney over 25 years ago [1]. In a classical series of experiments, this investigator showed that the injection of hypertonic saline into the carotid artery of conscious, hydrated dogs resulted in a prompt and reversible fall in urine output that was indistinguishable from that produced by the i.v. injection of small amounts of pituitary extract. On the basis of this and other indirect evidence, Verney concluded that the release of vasopressin from the neurohypophysis was controlled by an intracranial osmoreceptor that was extremely sensitive to changes in the blood concentration of sodium and certain other solutes. Efforts to confirm and extend these observations were limited for many years by the lack of a suitable method for measuring vasopressin directly at the low concentrations normally present in body fluids. Recently, however, several laboratories have succeeded in developing sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay methods that permit the hormone to be measured at physiologic concentrations with greater ease and precision [2,3]. As reviewed in the following pages, these new assay methods now have made it possible to begin to characterize osmoregulatory function in a more concrete and comprehensive way and also to use such information to analyze systematically certain clinical disorders of salt and water balance.
Effect of thioarsenite formation on Arsenic(III) toxicity

Soluble arsenic(III)-sulfide complexes (thioarsenites) play a significant role in the chemistry of arsenic in reducing, sulfidic environments at circumneutral pH. Chemical equilibrium calculations using thioarsenite thermodynamic data from the literature indicate that the formation of a dithioarsenite complex, AsS(OH)(SH)(-1), reduces the concentration of the uncomplexed inorganic As(III) species present (defined sigma H3AsO3, where sigma H3AsO3 = AsO3(-3) + HAsO3(-2) + H2AsO3(-1) + H3AsO3). With enough sulfide present, soluble As(III) is dominated by this complex. Therefore, it is of interest to examine the effect of dithioarsenite formation on As(III) toxicity. The Microtox acute toxicity test was used for this purpose. Tests performed on solutions with varying S:As ratios indicate that As(III) toxicity is a function of the uncomplexed As(III) concentration rather than the total As(III) concentration. This suggests that the dithioarsenite species is not bioavailable and that its formation reduces As(III) toxicity. Chemical equilibrium calculations and sediment pore-water field data from various sources indicate that, in many sediments, dithioarsenite formation can reduce toxicity.
Domain alternation switches B(12)-dependent methionine synthase to the activation conformation.

B12-dependent methionine synthase (MetH) from Escherichia coli is a large modular protein that uses bound cobalamin as an intermediate methyl carrier. Major domain rearrangements have been postulated to explain how cobalamin reacts with three different substrates: homocysteine, methyltetrahydrofolate and S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet). Here we describe the 3.0 A structure of a 65 kDa C-terminal fragment of MetH that spans the cobalamin- and AdoMet-binding domains, arranged in a conformation suitable for the methyl transfer from AdoMet to cobalamin that occurs during activation. In the conversion to the activation conformation, a helical domain that capped the cofactor moves 26 A and rotates by 63°, allowing formation of a new interface between cobalamin and the AdoMet-binding (activation) domain. Interactions with the MetH activation domain drive the cobalamin away from its binding domain in a way that requires dissociation of the axial cobalt ligand and, thereby, provide a mechanism for control of the distribution of enzyme conformations.
The Relatedness of HIV Epidemics in the United States–Mexico Border Region

Abstract Phylogeography can improve the understanding of local and worldwide HIV epidemics, including the migration of subepidemics across national borders. We analyzed HIV-1 sequences sampled from Mexico and San Diego, California to determine the relatedness of these epidemics. We sampled the HIV epidemics in (1) Mexico by downloading all publicly available HIV-1 pol sequences from antiretroviral-naive individuals in GenBank (n = 100) and generating similar sequences from cohorts of injection drug users and female sex workers in Tijuana, Mexico (n = 27) and (2) in San Diego, California by pol sequencing well-characterized primary (n = 395) and chronic (n = 267) HIV infection cohorts. Estimates of population structure (FST), genetic distance cluster analysis, and a cladistic measure of migration events (Slatkin–Maddison test) were used to assess the relatedness of the epidemics. Both a test of population differentiation (FST = 0.06; p < 0.01) and a cladistic estimate of migration events (84 migrations, p ...
Thermal monitoring of North Pacific volcanoes from space

Long-term thermal modeling of volcanoes using satellite imagery provides an effective tool for monitoring remote yet dangerous volcanoes in the North Pacific. This region includes volcanoes in Alaska, the Aleutian Islands, and the Kamchatkan Peninsula. Thermal infrared data collected multiple times per day from weather satellites show distinct signatures for three different types of volcanic activity at different volcanic centers. Near real-time automated techniques are being developed to monitor relative changes in radiant temperature at volcanoes in this region. Radiant temperature values as a function of time are extracted and compared to background values for a series of active volcanoes. By establishing a long-term thermal record for these volcanoes, significant deviations indicative of an impending eruption can be detected. This tool is used to search for precursors to explosive eruptions in order to increase warning times and hazard mitigation for these potentially catastrophic events. A six year archive of satellite imagery has been compiled for this active region, and is available for study.
Production of Respirable Vesicles Containing Live Legionella pneumophila Cells by Two Acanthamoeba spp.

Two Acanthamoeba species, fed at three temperatures, expelled vesicles containing living Legionella pneumophila cells. Vesicles ranged from 2.1 to 6.4 μm in diameter and theoretically could contain several hundred bacteria. Viable L. pneumophila cells were observed within vesicles which had been exposed to two cooling tower biocides for 24 h. Clusters of bacteria in vesicles were not dispersed by freeze-thawing and sonication. Such vesicles may be agents for the transmission of legionellosis associated with cooling towers, and the risk may be underestimated by plate count methods.
Functional MRI study of brain function under resting and activated states

Numerous magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques have been developed with various imaging contrasts, which can be tightly linked to brain functions, electrophysiology and diseases. Recent MRI technology developments have resulted in several important functional MRI (fMRI) methods based on the blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) contrast. These fMRI methods have been applied to mapping brain activation in laminar level as well functional connectivity network in a resting brain. We have found a strong correlation between the spontaneous brain activity and BOLD fluctuation indicating a tight neurovascular relation.
Estimating Suppression Expenditures for Individual Large Wildland Fires

The extreme cost of fighting wildland fires has brought fire suppression expenditures to the forefront of budgetary and policy debate in the United States. Inasmuch as large fires are responsible for the bulk of fire suppression expenditures, understanding fire characteristics that influence expenditures is important for both strategic fire planning and onsite fire management decisions. These characteristics then can be used to produce estimates of suppression expenditures for large wildland fires for use in wildland fire decision support or after-fire reviews. The primary objective of this research was to develop regression models that could be used to estimate expenditures on large wildland fires based on area burned, variables representing the fire environment, values at risk, resource availability, detection time, and National Forest System region. Variables having the largest influence on cost included fire intensity level, area burned, and total housing value within 20 mi of ignition. These equations were then used to predict suppression expenditures on a set of fiscal year 2005 Forest Service fires for the purpose of detecting “extreme” cost fires—those fires falling more than 1 or 2 SDs above or below their expected value.
Compounds in Milk Accompanying Feeding of Ethoxyquin

Abstract A feeding trial was conducted to determine if ethoxyquin, or its residues, is transferred from feed to milk when added to feed at 0.015% of the dry matter intake. A very low concentration (less than 7 µg/ liter) of ethoxyquin was detected in milk by a fluorimetric procedure and by thin layer chromatography. Feeding ethoxyquin did not increase milk tocopherol, but was accompanied by appearance in milk of a compound (not yet identifled) that interfered in the determination of ethoxyquin by a fluorimetric method, and in the determination of tocopherol by a method used before in our laboratory.
Design of phase-correcting zone plate antennas for microwave and millimeter-wave applications using a full electromagnetic analysis

At optical frequencies, the features of a zone plate are electrically large, so geometrical and scalar theories are adequate for their analysis. At microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies, however, this is often no longer true, and a full electromagnetic analysis is required to obtain accurate results. In this paper, the body-of-revolution finite-difference time-domain (BOR-FDTD) method is used to study the performance of the grooved-dielectric, phase-correcting Fresnel zone plate antenna. Graphs are presented that examine the effect of various parameters on the focusing ability of these antennas, such as the focal length F, the diameter D, the number of full-wave zones N, and the number of subzones per full-wave zone P. This information should be useful to the designers of these antennas.
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Tipping: The Role of Perceived Descriptive and Injunctive Tipping Norms

In U.S. restaurants, racial and ethnic minorities often tip less than whites. These differences in tipping create numerous problems ranging from discriminatory service to restaurant executives’ rel...
An interpolatory subdivision for volumetric models over simplicial complexes

Subdivision has gained popularity in computer graphics and shape modeling during the past two decades, yet volumetric subdivision has received much less attention. In this paper, we develop a new subdivision scheme, which can interpolate all of the initial control points in 3D and generate a continuous volume in the limit. We devise a set of solid subdivision rules to facilitate a simple subdivision procedure. The conversion between the subdivided mesh and a simplicial complex is straightforward and effective, which can be directly utilized in solid meshing, finite element simulation, and other numerical processes. In principle, our solid subdivision process is a combination of simple linear interpolations in 3D. Affine operations of neighboring control points produce new control points in the next level, yet inherit the original control points and achieve the interpolatory effect. A parameter is offered to control the tension between control points. The interpolatory property of our solid subdivision offers many benefits, which are desirable in many design applications and physics simulations, including intuitive manipulation on control points and ease of constraint enforcement in numerical procedures. We outline a proof that can guarantee the convergence and C/sup 1/ continuity of our volumetric subdivision and limit volumes in regular cases. In addition to solid subdivision, we derive special rules to generate C/sup 1/ surfaces as B-reps and to model shapes of non-manifold topology. Several examples demonstrate the ability of our subdivision to handle complex manifolds easily. Numerical experiments and future research suggestions for extraordinary cases are also presented.
Lack of sexual dimorphism in femora of the eusocial and hypogonadic naked mole-rat: A novel animal model for the study of delayed puberty on the skeletal system

Sex steroid hormones are major determinants of bone morphology and quality and are responsible for sexually dimorphic skeletal traits. Hypogonadism results in suboptimal skeletal development and may lead to an increased risk of bone fracture later in life. The etiology of delayed puberty and/or hypothalamic amenorrhea is poorly understood, and experimental animal models addressing this issue are predominantly based upon short-term experimental induction of hormonal suppression via gonadotropin releasing hormone antagonists (GnRH-a). This acute change in hormone profile does not necessarily emulate the natural progression of hypogonadic bone disorders. We propose a novel animal model with which to explore the effects of chronic hypogonadism on bone quality, the naked mole-rat (NMR; Heterocephalus glaber). This mouse-size rodent may remain reproductively suppressed throughout its life, if it remains as a subordinate within the eusocial mole-rat colony. NMRs live in large colonies with a single dominant breeding female. She, primarily by using aggressive social contact, naturally suppresses the hypothalamic gonadotropic axis of subordinate NMRs and thereby their reproductive expression. However, should an NMR be separated from the dominant breeder, within less than a week reproductive hormones may become elevated and the animal attains breeding status. We questioned if sexual suppression of subordinates impact upon the development and maintenance of the femora and lead to a sexually indistinct monomorphic skeleton. Femora were obtained from male and female NMRs that were either non-breeders (subordinate) or breeders at the time of sacrifice. Diaphyseal cross-sectional morphology, metaphyseal trabecular micro-architecture and tissue mineral density of the femur were measured using microcomputed tomography and diaphyseal mechanical properties were assessed by four-point bending tests to failure. Subordinates were sexually monomorphic and showed no significant differences in body weight or femoral bone structure and quality between males and females. Femora of subordinate females differed significantly from that of breeding animals, whereas in males, the divergent trend among breeders and non-breeders did not reach statistical significance. Subordinate NMRs, naturally suppressed from entering puberty, may prove to be a useful model to tease apart the relationship between bone morphology and hypogonadism and evaluate skeletal development during pubertal maturation.
Opposition Politics and Ethnicity in Ethiopia: We Will All Go Down Together

Democratisation has been the subject of much scholarly discussion during the past few years, notably the so-called ‘third wave’ that is taking place in Africa and the former Soviet bloc. Of particular interest is the concept of the abertura, or opening of the political system, that many have come to believe is the prerequisite for a fully fledged transition to democracy. After years of military rule, this is what appears to have occurred in Ethiopia, and hence the aims of this article are (i) to trace the origins and platforms of the various political parties that have had a relatively open forum for opposition since 1991, (ii) to evaluate their effectiveness both in providing a viable alternative to the regime in power and in aggregating the interests of the different societal and ethnic groups, and (iii) to examine the future of democracy in their country.
Balanced Instruction: Insights and Considerations

Different conceptions of balanced literacy instruction are presented, along with information on the resarch and theory in support of each one. Practical implications for the classroom are described.
Mutants of bacteriophage T4 deficient in the ability to induce nuclear disruption. I. Isolation and genetic characterization.

Nuclear disruption in T4 phage-infected Escherichia coli as well as the morphology of the nuclear regions in uninfected E. coli can be observed by phase microscopy of cells spread on a thin layer of 17.5% gelatin. We have used this procedure to identify for the first time mutants of phage T4 which fail to induce nuclear disruption. The mutant phenotypes have been further characterized by thin-section electron microscopy. Nuclear disruption is not essential for phage growth. Burst-size and growth-rate experiments indicate that the nuclear disruption-deficient (ndd) mutants grow as well as wild-type T4D under the conditions and in the E. coli strains commonly used in our laboratory. Mapping experiments using multiple amber mutants and rII mutants with deletions extending into the D region adjacent to the rIIB gene indicate that the ndd mutations are located in gene D2b.
Perceptual Organization and Curve Partitioning

In this paper we offer a critical evaluation of the partitioning (perceptual organization) problem, noting the extent to which it has distinct formulations and parameterizations. We show that most partitioning techniques can be characterized as variations of four distinct paradigms, and argue that any effective technique must satisfy two general principles. We give concrete substance to our general discussion by introducing new partitioning techniques for planar geometric curves, and present experimental results demonstrating their effectiveness.
Obscurin determines the architecture of the longitudinal sarcoplasmic reticulum

The giant protein obscurin is thought to link the sarcomere with the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR). The N-terminus of obscurin interacts with the M-band proteins titin and myomesin, whereas the C-terminus mediates interactions with ankyrin proteins. Here, we investigate the importance of obscurin for SR architecture and organization. Lack of obscurin in cross-striated muscles leads to changes in longitudinal SR architecture and disruption of small ankyrin-1.5 (sAnk1.5) expression and localization. Changes in SR architecture in obscurin knockout mice are also associated with alterations in several SR or SR-associated proteins, such as ankyrin-2 and β-spectrin. Finally, obscurin knockout mice display centralized nuclei in skeletal muscles as a sign of mild myopathy, but have normal sarcomeric structure and preserved muscle function.
Synthesis of HA-Seeded TTCP (Ca4(PO4)2O) Powders at 1230°C from Ca(CH3COO)2·H2O and NH4H2PO4

Tetracalcium phosphate (TTCP) Ca4(PO4)2O is one of the major powder components of self-setting orthopedic and dental cements. Traditionally, TTCP powders are produced by a solid-state process by soaking Ca- and P-containing precursors between 1350° and 1500°C. Such procedures require expensive high-temperature furnaces and subsequent grinding of sintered particulates. Grinding not only introduces contamination but alters the structure of TTCP, thereby reducing its bioactivity. The present paper offers a lower temperature synthesis process for TTCP with several interesting features. First, the synthesis procedure used Ca(CH3COO)2·H2O and NH4H2PO4 as separate sources for Ca and P, respectively. Second, the reactants underwent multiple melting and decomposition stages, thus increasing the reactivity of the synthesis process. NH4H2PO4 melted at 190°C and engulfed the calcium acetate particles. The Ca-acetate component decomposed into CaCO3 at around 400°C while still surrounded by the molten phosphate liquid and an amorphous Ca-metaphosphate phase. Hydroxyapatite, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2 (HA), and β-Ca3(PO4)2 crystallized upon heating the powder mixture to 700°C. Slightly above 1200°C, the TTCP phase was formed. This sequence of reactions led to a process temperature of 1230°C, the lowest temperature ever reported for the synthesis of TTCP. Third, the resulting powders required much less grinding, which itself is advantageous. Fourth, the resulting powders were in situ seeded with HA. HA-seeded TTCP powders were tested for their apatite-inducing ability by soaking them in synthetic body fluid at 37°C. TTCP powders of this study were readily covered with carbonated apatitic calcium phosphates within the first 72 h.
Die drei „Sinnsterne“

Ich habe bis jetzt die Unterschiede der Denkweisen und der Strategien gegenuber der Welt beleuchtet. Die Menschen unterscheiden sich aber auch in den praferierten Denkrichtungen. Manche Menschen streben nach Macht, andere nach Liebe, wieder andere sind Kunstler. Abraham Maslow untersuchte solche Fragen und schenkte uns das Vorstellungsbild oder die Idee der Bedurfnishierarchie. Diese hierarchische Anordnung der Bedurfnisse des Menschen ist als Bedurfnispyramide bekannt geworden. Das Vorstellungsbild der Pyramide beherrscht heute viele Menschen. Ich bin immer wieder erstaunt, wie viele Menschen, denen ich begegne, es absolut verinnerlicht haben.
Sulfhydryl regulation of L-selectin shedding: phenylarsine oxide promotes activation-independent L-selectin shedding from leukocytes.

The L-selectin adhesion molecule mediates leukocyte recruitment to inflammatory sites and lymphocyte trafficking through the peripheral lymph nodes. In response to leukocyte activation, L-selectin is proteolytically released from the cell surface, disabling leukocytes from the subsequent L-selectin-dependent interactions. We have found that L-selectin shedding is sensitive to sulfhydryl chemistry; it is promoted by thiol-oxidizing or -blocking reagents and inhibited by reducing reagents. Phenylarsine oxide (PAO), a trivalent arsenical that interacts with vicinal dithiols, is most potent in inducing rapid shedding of L-selectin from isolated neutrophils, eosinophils, and lymphocytes as well as from neutrophils in whole blood. PAO does not cause cell activation, nor does it interfere with integrin function or alter the expression of several other cell surface molecules at the low concentrations that induce L-selectin shedding. PAO is not required to enter the cell to induce L-selectin shedding. TAPI-2 (( N -{d,l-[2-(hydroxyaminocarbonyl)-methyl]-4-methylpentanoyl}-l-3-(tert-butyl)-alanyl-l-alanine, 2-aminoethyl amide), which has previously been shown to inhibit the activation-dependent L-selectin shedding, is also capable of inhibiting PAO-induced L-selectin shedding. We hypothesize that PAO-induced L-selectin shedding involves a regulatory molecule, such as protein disulfide isomerase (PDI), an enzyme that plays a role in the formation and rearrangement of disulfide bonds, contains PAO-binding, vicinal dithiol-active sites, and is expressed on the neutrophil surface. Cell surface expression of PDI, L-selectin shedding induced by PDI-blocking Abs and by bacitracin, a known inhibitor of PDI activity, and direct binding of PDI to PAO, provide supporting evidence for this hypothesis.
Control of robot manipulator through robust sliding linearization

A robust control method which can overcome the disturbances and parameter uncertainties of a robot manipulator is proposed. This sliding-mode-based technique provides performance robustness that guarantees the system attractiveness to a certain linear surface if the so-called matching conditions and bounds on perturbations and modeling errors are satisfied. The performance and robustness characteristics can be separated into two cascaded loops, an internal one that guarantees the surface attraction or linearization robustness and an external one that designs a controller based on the linearized system. The technique is applied to a two-bar robot with a spring at the end effector as an unknown interaction with the environment and an external load disturbance. >
Transition customs in Chinese companies: a practitioner's view

This paper provides an overview of transition strategy, focusing specifically on the Chinese business world, where the common practice is for founders to pass their companies on to their children, the younger generation. This paper describes how Chinese businesses are invariably adopting the western‐style management practice of instituting the various offices of chairman, chief executive officer, president, etc. primarily because the children of those founding fathers have been mostly sent to the USA, the UK and Canada to receive higher education. This paper concludes that these second‐generation operating managers have essentially transformed their business environments with great success, modernizing the Asian business community as a whole and competing effectively with the western world.
Evaluating the feasibility of a passive travel survey collection in a complex urban environment: Lessons learned from the New York City case study

The combination of increasing challenges in administering household travel surveys and advances in global positioning systems (GPS)/geographic information systems (GIS) technologies motivated this project. It tests the feasibility of using a passive travel data collection methodology in a complex urban environment, by developing GIS algorithms to automatically detect travel modes and trip purposes. The study was conducted in New York City where the multi-dimensional challenges include urban canyon effects, an extreme dense and diverse set of land use patterns, and a complex transit network. Our study uses a multi-modal transportation network, a set of rules to achieve both complexity and flexibility for travel mode detection, and develops procedures and models for trip end clustering and trip purpose prediction. The study results are promising, reporting success rates ranging from 60% to 95%, suggesting that in the future, conventional self-reported travel surveys may be supplemented, or even replaced, by passive data collection methods.
Sources of magnetic sensory input to identified neurons active during crawling in the marine mollusc Tritonia diomedea

Although the nudibranch mollusc Tritonia diomedea orients to the geomagnetic field, the anatomical site and the mechanism of the geomagnetic transducer are not known. Previous work on semi-intact preparations of Tritonia diomedea in which the brain is intact and nerve connections to the periphery are maintained showed that identifiable pedal ganglion neurons Pd5 fired an increased number of action potentials when the horizontal component of the ambient magnetic field was rotated. This response disappeared when all nerves emerging from the brain were cut, suggesting a peripheral locus for the geomagnetic transducer. In the present work, we recorded intracellularly from Pd5 in preparations in which all peripheral nerves were cut except those containing the axons of neurons Pd5 (pedal nerves 2 and 3). These uncut, mixed, sensory-motor trunks innervate the locomotory epithelium of the foot upon which the animal crawls. In this further-reduced preparation, Pd5 again responded to magnetic field rotations with action potentials. To determine the direction of this action potential transmission in response to magnetic field rotations, we analyzed extracellular recordings from nerves containing the Pd5 axons and found that action potentials elicited in Pd5 by magnetic stimuli originate centrally and are transmitted peripherally. In addition, we have explored the behavioral function of Pd5 neurons by simultaneously recording intracellular electrical activity and crawling rate of the semi-intact animal. A significant correlation was found between crawling rate and Pd5 action potential rate. We also found that action potentials in dorsal swim interneurons depolarized both Pd5 and the established locomotion motoneuron Pd21.