cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bello y las "escrituras disciplinarias": diccionarios, gramáticas, ortografías

Los diccionarios y las gramaticas representan herramientas de planificacion linguistica, y, junto con las constituciones y los manuales de urbanidad, son “escrituras disciplinarias” (Gonzalez Stephan 1995). La “etnortografia”, subdisciplina de la glotopolitica, es otra variedad de “escritura disciplinaria”, puesto que las iniciativas de reforma ortografica pueden reflejar y promover determinadas ideologias politicas, culturales y religiosas (Calero Vaquera 2010).En sus propuestas destinadas a simplificar la ortografia castellana,Andres Bello (1781-1865) y Domingo Sarmiento (1811-1888)son representantes de diversas orientaciones etnortograficas. Se interpreta a Bello como figura esencial del cultivo de la cultura latinoamericana poscolonial desde la perspectiva del modelo de los llamados “nacionalismos entrelazados”.
Preclinical models of bone metastases.

The clinical use of bisphosphonates for the management of bone metastases in malignant disease is well established, though the precise pathophysiology of metastasis and the mechanism of action of bisphosphonates is not fully understood. In addition, recent clinical studies indicate that bisphosphonates may have an anticancer effect. Animal models can contribute to further development of these drugs, and a number of improved models have been developed in the past few years. The mouse heart injection model represents the late stages in osteolytic metastasis but the newer orthotopic model has advantages because it better represents the whole process of metastasis. The process of osteoblastic metastasis has been more difficult to study but models have been created in mice by using intracardiac inoculation of certain types of human breast cancer cells. Research in myeloma in the past has been hampered by the lack of good animal models but two promising models have been recently developed. These different models should enable mechanisms to be elucidated and contribute background information for the design of further clinical trials.
Relative value of isotonic and isometric exercise radionuclide angiography to detect coronary heart disease.

Isotonic and isometric stress have both been used in combination with radionuclide angiography to detect coronary heart disease. In view of the marked differences in these two forms of exercise and their relative advantages and disadvantages from a physiologic and a technical standpoint, these two techniques were compared in the same group of 48 patients undergoing diagnostic cardiac catheterization. All patients underwent first pass radionuclide angiography using a multicrystal camera at rest, during handgrip exercise and maximal bicycle exercise. Of the 48 patients, 28 had coronary artery disease and 20 had normal coronary arteries. Bicycle exercise resulted in a significantly higher rate-pressure product. Changes in global ejection fraction during handgrip exercise did not distinguish patients with or without disease. Eighty-two % of the patients with coronary artery disease showed an increase of less than 5 units in global ejection fraction during bicycle exercise. However, this criterion resulted in a low specificity of 30% in the patients with normal coronary arteries. In contrast, assessment of regional ejection fraction during bicycle exercise showed a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 65%. Handgrip exercise yielded a similar sensitivity of 68%, but the specificity was only 50%. Thus, in patients without evidence of severe left ventricular dysfunction at rest, upright bicycle exercise combined with radionuclide angiography and analysis of regional ejection fraction provides a more optimal combination of sensitivity and specificity compared with assessment of global ejection fraction or the use of isometric handgrip exercise.
Taking a leaf from the book of oral tolerance.

In this issue of Blood , Sherman et al demonstrate that mucosal delivery of engineered tobacco leaves can lead to tolerance to factor VIII (FVIII) inhibitor production. Eat your veggies for tolerance![1][1] ![Figure][2] Proposed clinical application: FVIII domains expressed in transgenic
Reduction in Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection Rates After Implementations of Infection Control Measures at a Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit .

Advances in neonatology led to survival of micro-preemies, who need central lines. Central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) causes prolonged hospitalization, morbidities, and mortality. Health care team education decreases CLABSIs. The objective was to decrease CLABSIs using evidence-based measures. The retrospective review compared CLABSI incidence during and after changes in catheter care. In April 2011, intravenous (IV) tubing changed from Interlink to Clearlink; IV tubing changing interval increased from 24 to 72 hours. CLABSIs increased. The following measures were implemented: July 2011, reeducation of neonatal intensive care staff on Clearlink; August 2011, IV tubing changing interval returned to 24 hours; September 2011, changed from Clearlink back to Interlink; November 2011, review of entire IV process and in-service on hand hygiene; December 2011, competencies on IV access for all nurses. CLABSIs were compared during and after interventions. Means were compared using the t test and ratios using the χ(2) test; P <.05. CLABSIs decreased from 4.4/1000 to 0/1000 catheter-days; P < .05. Evidence-based interventions reduced CLABSIs.
Prevention of chickenpox in reproductive-age women: cost-effectiveness of routine prenatal screening with postpartum vaccination of susceptibles.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate economic and clinical outcomes of a program of routine prenatal serotesting for varicella and postpartum vaccination of seronegative women. Methods: An analytic cost-effectiveness model was constructed to compare the current strategy of no serotesting with 1) selective serotesting of pregnant women without a prior history of chickenpox and 2) serotesting of all pregnant women. In both serotesting strategies, seronegative women were vaccinated postpartum. The model followed a hypothetical cohort of 4 million women over 20 years. Costs and chickenpox disease outcomes during and outside of subsequent pregnancies were considered. The incremental cost-effectiveness (cost per adult chickenpox case prevented) of selective serotesting compared with the current strategy was measured. Results: Compared to no testing, selective serotesting would prevent 43% (48,577 of 112,654) of adult chickenpox cases, save $21.8 million in discounted medical and work loss costs from the societal perspective, and cost $1126 per case prevented from the health payer’s perspective (medical costs only). The model was sensitive to varicella seroprevalence and incidence of chickenpox among susceptible women but was relatively insensitive to the cost of serologic testing and vaccination. Compared with selective serotesting, the serotest-all strategy would prevent an additional 15,645 cases, at a societal cost of $7653 per additional case prevented. Conclusion: The selective serotesting strategy could prevent nearly half of chickenpox cases among this cohort and is cost-saving from the societal perspective. From the health payer’s perspective, it compares favorably with other generally accepted preventive practices. It should be considered for prevention of chickenpox among women of childbearing age.
Promotion of Activation of Pepsinogen by Polyanions Including RNA and Sulfated Mucosubstances

SummaryHeparin, RNA, a sulfated glycoprotein from human gastric juice, and chondroitin 4-sulfate promote activation of pepsinogen. Heparin and RNA are about twice as effective as the sulfated glycoprotein and chondroitin 4-sulfate in promoting activation. The promotion of activation of pepsinogen is pH dependent. The pH for maximum promotion of activation by RNA was approximately pH 4.0.We express our appreciation to the medical students in the elective research group who participated in some of the preliminary experiments on the interactions of polyanions and pepsinogen.
Tunable, stable source of femtosecond pulses near 2 μm via supercontinuum of an Erbium mode-locked laser.

A source of ultrashort pulses of light in the 2 μm region was constructed using supercontinuum broadening from an erbium mode-locked laser. The output spectrum spanned 1000 nm to 2200 nm with an average power of 250 mW. A pulse width of 39 fs for part of the spectrum in the 2000 nm region, corresponding to less than six optical cycles, was achieved. A heterodyne measurement of the free-running mode-locked laser with a narrow-linewidth continuous wave laser resulted in a near shot noise-limited beat note with a signal-to-noise ratio of 45 dB in a 10 kHz resolution bandwidth. The relative intensity noise of the broadband system was investigated over the entire supercontinuum, and the integrated relative intensity noise of the 2000 nm portion of the spectrum was 1.7 × 10−3. The long-term stability of the system was characterized, and intensity fluctuations in the spectrum were found to be highly correlated throughout the supercontinuum. Spectroscopic limitations due to the laser noise characteristics are discussed.
Apples and Oranges in Child Custody Disputes: Intimate Terrorism vs. Situational Couple Violence

ABSTRACT In response to Dutton's (this issue) critique of feminist theories of domestic violence, the author of this article makes three points relevant to the debate about the gender asymmetry of intimate partner violence. First, there are three major types of intimate partner violence, only one of which (intimate terrorism) is the kind of violence that we all think of when we hear the term “domestic violence.” Second, both major types of sampling designs in domestic violence research are seriously biased, and those biases account for the fact that both sides of this debate have been able to marshal ostensibly contradictory empirical evidence for their position. Third, intimate terrorism (also know as domestic violence, spouse abuse, wife-beating, etc.) is, indeed, primarily male-perpetrated and, in the case of heterosexual relationships, probably best understood through some version of a feminist theory of domestic violence. The author then discusses the implications of these points for assessment of ri...
Effects of organic mobile phase modifiers in micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography

The addition of 1–20% (v/v) of methanol or acetonitrile as organic modifier to the mobile phase in a micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatographic (MECC) system, containing sodium dodecyl sulfate and a buffer, is shown to extend the elution range and thus increase the peak capacity of a given system. Although the net change in the elution range parameter, to/tmc, is essentially the same for both modifiers, the acetonitrile-modified system exhibits much faster elution times for the polar and non-polar test solutes employed in this study. Retention, as measured by the capacity factor, is generally decreased with the increase of an organic modifier, just as in conventional reversed phase chromatography. However, changes in selectivity as a function of the added modifiers are noted among polar and non-polar solutes as well. The efficiency of these MECC systems is increased with the addition of either organic modifier.
Transition Metal(II) Complexes of the Azines

The complexes of the Mn (II), Fe (II), Co(II), Ni(II), and Cu(II) halides with pyrazine (1,4-diazine), pyrimidine (1,3-diazine), and pyridazine (1,2-diazine) were prepared and studied by various physical methods. Reflectance spectra, infrared spectra from 4000-80 cm−1, and magnetic moments were determined. The data are suggestive of an octahedral environment involving halide and azine bridging in the 1: 1 complexes, and an octahedral environment involving halide bridging and terminal azines in the 1: 2 complexes.
Stresses in plated long-bones: The role of screw tightness and interface slipping

Using a three-dimensional finite element model of a plated long bone, we studied the influence of screw tightness, sliding frictional interfaces, and loading magnitude on the stresses within the plated bone. The model incorporated frictional interface elements that allowed stress-free separation under tensile loading to occur between the plate and bone and between the screw heads and the plate. The applied loading simulated both static preloads created by tightening the screws that secure the plate to the bone and physiologic loads created by activity. Initial screw tightening with plate application created regions of bone hydrostatic compressive stress that may be partly responsible for ischemia under the plate. The inclusion of frictional interfaces resulted in a nonlinear relationship between physiologic load and bone strain that was dependent on screw tightness. This nonlinear response correlated well with the results of previous in vitro studies showing that slippage between the plate and the bone can occur at physiologic load levels. The results showed that the effect of such slippage can be at least as important as plate meterial, rigidity, and placement in determining the degree of stress shielding. The results also indicated that previous plated bone models that assumed tight interfaces may have overestimated the extent of mechanical stress shielding.
Using Facebook Within a Geriatric Pharmacotherapy Course

Objective. To evaluate using an Internet-based social networking site within an elective geriatric pharmacotherapy course. Design. Thirty pharmacy students enrolled in a geriatric pharmacotherapy elective course were invited to join a closed Facebook (Facebook Inc, Palo Alto, CA) group to enhance communication among students and faculty members within the course. Creating a discussion board was the primary activity in the course. Each week, 3 students were assigned to post a healthy aging topic, and other students in the class were expected to post their comments and reactions. The healthy aging topics also were discussed during class. Assessment. Students wrote reflections about their experiences using Facebook for the activities within this course. A survey instrument also measured students' opinions about using Facebook for educational purposes. Conclusion. Using Facebook allowed students to discuss topics more openly and encouraged classroom discussions of healthy aging topics.
GENPLOT: a formula-based Pascal program for data manipulation and plotting

Abstract Geochemical processes involving alteration, differentiation, fractionation, or migration of elements may be elucidated by a number of discrimination or variation diagrams (e.g., AFM, Harker, Pearce, and many others). The construction of these diagrams involves arithmetic combination of selective elements (involving major, minor, or trace elements). GENPLOT utilizes a formula-based algorithm (an expression parser) which enables the program to manipulate multiparameter databases and plot XY, ternary, tetrahedron, and REE type plots without needing to change either the source code or rearranging databases. Formulae may be any quadratic expression whose variables are the column headings of the data matrix. A full-screen editor with limited equations and arithmetic functions (spreadsheet) has been incorporated into the program to aid data entry and editing. Data are stored as ASCII files to facilitate interchange of data between other programs and computers. GENPLOT was developed in Turbo Pascal for the IBM and compatible computers but also is available in Apple Pascal for the Apple Ile and Ill. Because the source code is too extensive to list here (about 5200 lines of Pascal code), the expression parsing routine, which is central to GENPLOT's flexibility is incorporated into a smaller demonstration program named SOLVE. The following paper includes a discussion on how the expression parser works and a detailed description of GENPLOT's capabilities.
Molecular mechanisms of cardiomyocyte aging

Western societies are rapidly aging, and cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death. In fact, age and cardiovascular diseases are positively correlated, and disease syndromes affecting the heart reach epidemic proportions in the very old. Genetic variations and molecular adaptations are the primary contributors to the onset of cardiovascular disease; however, molecular links between age and heart syndromes are complex and involve much more than the passage of time. Changes in CM (cardiomyocyte) structure and function occur with age and precede anatomical and functional changes in the heart. Concomitant with or preceding some of these cellular changes are alterations in gene expression often linked to signalling cascades that may lead to a loss of CMs or reduced function. An understanding of the intrinsic molecular mechanisms underlying these cascading events has been instrumental in forming our current understanding of how CMs adapt with age. In the present review, we describe the molecular mechanisms underlying CM aging and how these changes may contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Italy's Colonial Memories and Postcolonial Cultures

(2011). Italy's Colonial Memories and Postcolonial Cultures. Italian Studies: Vol. 66, Cultural Studies, pp. 444-448.
A Randomised Controlled Trial of Written Self-Disclosure for Functional Recurrent Abdominal Pain in Youth

Written self-disclosure (WSD) has rarely been evaluated as an intervention for paediatric diseases. To test the efficacy of WSD for youths aged 11-18 years with a diagnosis of functional recurrent abdominal pain (RAP), 63 were randomly assigned to receive standard medical care (SMC) alone or WSD in addition to SMC. WSD was administered in three 20-min sessions, one in the clinic and two by phone in the home. Measures of self-reported pain frequency, somatisation severity and quality of life (QOL) were completed at baseline and 3- and 6-month follow-up points. Blind review of electronic medical records provided data on clinic visit and phone consultation utilisation for the 6 months prior to and following baseline. Practice of WSD in addition to SMC was associated with significantly fewer activity-limiting gastrointestinal pain experiences (d = 0.61) and reduced health care utilisation (d = 0.59) 6 months later compared to SMC alone. There were no significant effects for somatisation severity or QOL in 6 months. WSD may be a useful treatment adjunct for reducing pain frequency and resulting health care utilisation in a portion of youths with functional RAP.
A simple approach to hierarchical ceramic ultrafiltration membranes

Abstract Asymmetric alumina ultrafiltration membranes with a hierarchical structure have been fabricated using carboxylic acid surface stabilized alumina nanoparticles (alumoxanes). Pre-formed hollow α-alumina spheres (3 μm nominal diameter) were prepared, using 2, 5, or 8 wt.% alumoxane solutions, and suspended in an aqueous solution of acetic-alumoxane (A-alumoxane) nanoparticles. This suspension was contacted with an α-alumina support. Firing to 600 °C gave a defect-free alumina hierarchical membrane with a total thickness of ca. 2 μm. The flux and permeability for the membrane containing alumina spheres derived from 2 wt.% solution of A-alumoxane is comparable to the porous support, while those derived from 5 and 8 wt.% solution of alumoxane are similar to a “flat” alumoxane-derived membrane. An alternative route to increasing the flux and permeability of the asymmetric membranes was developed whereby colloidal polystyrene beads of either 0.75, 3, or 15 μm diameter, were suspended in an aqueous solution of either A-alumoxane (1 wt.%) or methoxy(ethoxyethoxy)acetic acid alumoxane (MEEA-alumoxane, 10 wt.%). The surface of an α-alumina support was dip coated in the polystyrene/alumoxane colloidal solution, dried then fired to 600 °C, resulting in an asymmetric alumina membrane with a hierarchical tertiary structure. As the polystyrene out-gasses during pyrolysis the top of the coated spheres burst, resulting in a macroporous membrane in which the ceramic walls have a pore size and hence MWCO defined by the alumina formed from the alumoxane nanoparticles (A-alumoxane versus MEEA-alumoxane) rather than the macroporous structure of the membrane itself. The permeabilities of these membranes are equivalent or better than the support.
Is the association of smoking and depression a recent phenomenon

Part of the hardening hypothesis to explain the persistence of smoking-despite powerful antismoking forces-links smoking with psychopathology, especially depression. It has been proposed that the association between depression and smoking has emerged in more recent cohorts as smoking rates declined, disproportionately leaving among current smokers those who found it more difficult to quit because of their psychopathology. We examined the association of regular smoking and depression in a cohort who began smoking prior to the decline in smoking rates in the United States and assessed a corollary hypothesis that smokers with depression were more likely to persist in smoking than were those without depression. Data were from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study of a random sample of high school graduates from the class of 1957. In the 1992 follow-up, a subset of these 53-54-year-olds were assessed for lifetime and current depression and smoking (n = 4,858). A modest association between regular smoking and depression was found (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.2-1.6); persistence of smoking (current smoking among ever regular smokers) was unrelated to single-episode or recurrent depression (OR = 1.1, 95% CI = 0.8-1.5). The results do not support the proposition that the association between smoking and depression emerged when smoking rates declined, or that self-medication of depression through smoking is a likely mechanism for the persistence of smoking.
Membrane activity of the southern cowpea mosaic virus coat protein: the role of basic amino acids, helix-forming potential, and lipid composition.

Abstract Southern cowpea mosaic virus (SCPMV) is a spherical RNA virus with T = 3 icosahedral symmetry. The particle is composed of 180 subunits of the coat protein (CP) and one copy of the positive-sense viral RNA. The CP has two domains, the random (R) domain formed by the N-terminal 64 aa and the shell (S) domain (aa 65–260). The R domain is highly charged, with 11 of the N-terminal 30 residues being basic. It is localized to the interior of the native particle where it may interact with the viral RNA, but under certain pH and salt conditions the topology of the particle changes to externalize the R domain. Since the CPs of several spherical RNA viruses have been shown to interact with host membranes during infection, we have begun investigating the membrane interactions of the SCPMV CP using the artificial liposome membranes. Both the native CP and the R domain overexpressed in Escherichia coli were observed to interact with liposomes. The interaction between the R domain and liposomes required either anionic phospholipids or non-bilayer-forming lipids and involved electrostatic interactions since it was shown to be both pH and ionic strength dependent. The analysis of four different deletion and six different site-directed substitution mutations partially mapped the region responsible for this interaction to residues 1–30. Analysis of this region of the R domain by circular dichroism indicated that it assumes an α-helical structure when exposed to liposomes composed of anionic lipids. Mutations, which extend the helical nature of this region, promoted an increased interaction. The possible role of the CP/lipid interaction in the SCPMV infection is discussed.
Ultrafast electron crystallography: Transient structures of molecules, surfaces, and phase transitions

The static structure of macromolecular assemblies can be mapped out with atomic-scale resolution by using electron diffraction and microscopy of crystals. For transient nonequilibrium structures, which are critical to the understanding of dynamics and mechanisms, both spatial and temporal resolutions are required; the shortest scales of length (0.1–1 nm) and time (10–13 to 10–12 s) represent the quantum limit, the nonstatistical regime of rates. Here, we report the development of ultrafast electron crystallography for direct determination of structures with submonolayer sensitivity. In these experiments, we use crystalline silicon as a template for different adsorbates: hydrogen, chlorine, and trifluoroiodomethane. We observe the coherent restructuring of the surface layers with subangstrom displacement of atoms after the ultrafast heat impulse. This nonequilibrium dynamics, which is monitored in steps of 2 ps (total change ≤10 ps), contrasts that of the nanometer substrate. The effect of adsorbates and the phase transition at higher fluences were also studied through the evolution of streaks of interferences, Bragg spots (and their rocking curves), and rings in the diffraction patterns. We compare these results with kinematical theory and those of x-ray diffraction developed to study bulk behaviors. The sensitivity achieved here, with the 6 orders of magnitude larger cross section than x-ray diffraction, and with the capabilities of combined spatial (≈0.01 A) and temporal (300–600 fs) resolutions, promise diverse applications for this ultrafast electron crystallography tabletop methodology.
A Multivariate Permutation Test for the Analysis of Arbitrarily Censored Survival Data

The exact generalization of GEHAN's (1965) two-sample test for arbitrarily censored survival data has been overlooked by subsequent work on the multisample problem. We give this general covariance matrix and show how it may be used in test procedures. While this permutation test is less powerful than its competitors in cases where both apply, it may be used on types of data not previously discussed.
Probabilistic Analysis of An Infeasible-Interior-Point Algorithm for Linear Programming

We consider an infeasible-interior-point algorithm, endowed with a finite termination scheme, applied to random linear programs generated according to a model of Todd. Such problems have degenerate optimal solutions, and possess no feasible starting point. We use no information regarding an optimal solution in the initialization of the algorithm. Our main result is that the expected number of iterations before termination with an exact optimal solution is O(n ln(n)).
Variability of inorganic and organic constituents in lime spray dryer ash

Flue gas desulfurization (FGD) by-products, including lime spray dryer (LSD) ash, have many demonstrated uses. However, concern about the temporal variability in the chemical properties of this material has limited widespread utilization. To determine the variability in inorganic and representative model organic constituents, this study measured elemental composition, leaching properties, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations, available lime index (ALI), calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE), and total neutralization potential (TNP) for a representative LSD ash. All parameters investigated showed little variability over different time periods (e.g., daily to yearly) and little variability between samples collected from different particle collection hoppers. Metal concentrations including As, Se, and Hg in LSD ash and in the leachate did not surpass limits for land application (EPA 503 Rule) or limits for the determination of hazardous waste as specified in the Resource Conservative and Recovery Act (RCRA). While a number of PAHs were detected, including naphthalene and phenanthrene, the levels were low and in the range of natural soils. The low variability in ALI, CCE, TNP, and inorganic and organic composition suggests that LSD ash is a consistent and environmentally benign material for agricultural and other engineering applications.
Adhesion site composition of murine fibroblasts cultured on gelatin‐coated substrata

Fibroblasts in vivo adhere to a collagenous extracellular matrix. We present here a combined morphological and biochemical analysis of the adhesion sites of fibroblast-like cells cultured in vitro on gelatin-coated plastic, for comparison with earlier model studies using serum (plasma-fibronectin [pFn])-coated plastic. Scanning electron microscopy shows that cell adhesion to the gelatin is quite similar to that on plastic, but with some morphological differences reminiscent of those caused by higher concentrations of fibronectin adsorbed to the substratum. Measurement using 125I-radiolabeled pFn shows the level of substratum-bound pFn adsorbed from serum in the growth medium is, however, comparable on gelatin or plastic; thus, differences due to pFn must be attributed to the quality of the adsorbed protein, not its absolute quantity. Gel electrophoretic analysis of cellular adhesion sites formed on the two substrata shows their compositions to be qualitatively similar, suggesting again that the same fundamental adhesion processes are involved. However, three protein bands do change; notably, cellular fibronectin is increased on gelatin. These three proteins are also the most resistant to saline extraction, suggesting their intrinsic importance in the adhesion sites. The nature of the growth substratum thus appears to modulate a fundamentally unvarying morphology and adhesion site composition of the cells that adhere to it.
Coke deposition from acetylene, butadiene and benzene decompositions at 500–900°C on solid surfaces

Abstract Coke formation from decomposition of acetylene, butadiene, and benzene and decoking were investigated on Incoloy 800, aluminized Incoloy 800, and Vycor glass surfaces at 500–900°C. On Incoloy 800, the coke was greater in quantity and contained iron and nickel particles. On aluminized Incoloy 800, the coke contained a trace of aluminum, but on Vycor glass, no metal was in the coke. Coking-decoking sequences were highly corrosive on Incoloy 800 surfaces, but they had much less effect on the aluminized Incoloy 800 or Vycor glass. Filamenteous coke which is formed catalytically and contains nickel and iron was formed only on Incoloy 800 surfaces. A general mechanism for formation and deposition of coke is proposed. Filamenteous coke helps collect tar droplets formed by gas-phase reactions. Such droplets decompose on the surface to produce coke that contains no metal.
A unified framework for reinforcement learning, co-learning and meta-learning how to coordinate in collaborative multi-agent systems

Abstract Coordination among multiple autonomous, distributed cognitive agents is one of the most challenging and ubiquitous problems in Distributed AI and its applications in general, and in collaborative multi-agent systems in particular. A particularly prominent problem in multi-agent coordination is that of group, team or coalition formation. A considerable majority of the approaches to this problem found in the literature assume fixed interactions among autonomous agents involved in the coalition formation process. Moreover, most of the prior research where agents are actually able to learn and adapt based on their past interactions mainly focuses on reinforcement learning techniques at the individual agent level. We argue that, in many important applications and contexts, complex large-scale collaborative multi-agent systems need to be able to learn and adapt at multiple organization, hierarchical and logical levels. In particular, the agents need to be able to learn both at the level of individual agents and at the system or agent ensemble levels, and then to integrate these different sources of learned knowledge and behavior, in order to be effective at solving complex tasks in typical dynamic, partially observable and noisy multi-agent environments. In this paper, we describe a conceptual framework for addressing the problem of learning how to coordinate effectively at three qualitatively distinct levels — those of (i) individual agents, (ii) small groups of agents, and (iii) very large agent ensembles (or alternatively, depending on the nature of a multi-agent system, at the system or central control level). We briefly illustrate the applicability and usefulness of the proposed conceptual framework with an example of how it would apply to an important practical coordination problem, namely that of distributed coordination of a large ensemble of unmanned vehicles on a complex multi-task mission.
Parameter extraction of SAW resonator equivalent circuit parameters and package parasitics

A new approach which extracts the effects of the mutual inductance and transducer mutual coupling capacitance for surface acoustic wave (SAW) oscillators is presented. The approach first isolates the package parasitics, and then extracts the actual resonator parameters. Two port S-parameter data are taken over the narrowband near resonance and wideband (normally from 100 kHz to 3 GHz). A series of network and parameter transformations is used to extract all the required circuit parameters from the measured data. The theoretical approach and analysis are presented for the SAW resonator parameter extraction. Data comparisons of several approaches to parameter extraction are presented. >
Multiscale Exploratory Analysis of Regression Quantiles Using Quantile SiZer

The SiZer methodology proposed by Chaudhuri and Marron (1999) is a valuable tool for conducting exploratory data analysis. Since its inception different versions of SiZer have been proposed in the literature. Most of these SiZer variants are targeting the mean structure of the data, and are incapable of providing any information about the quantile composition of the data. To fill this need, this article proposes a quantile version of SiZer for the regression setting. By inspecting the SiZer maps produced by this new SiZer, real quantile structures hidden in a dataset can be more effectively revealed, while at the same time spurious features can be filtered out. The utility of this quantile SiZer is illustrated via applications to both real data and simulated examples. This article has supplementary material online.
Comparison of Wide- and High-Frequency Duty-Ratio-to-Inductor-Current Transfer Functions of DC–DC PWM Buck Converter in CCM

Wide- (WF) and high-frequency (HF) small-signal models are presented for pulsewidth-modulated dc-dc buck converter power stage. An exact duty-ratio-to-inductor-current transfer function is derived using the WF model and compared to an approximate transfer function derived using the HF model for the buck converter power stage in continuous conduction mode. The theoretical results are validated using experimental results.
Multi-hop Optical-label Switching Using Optical 3R Regeneration

This paper experimentally demonstrates the multi-hop operation of an optical-label switching router with label swapping and optical 3R at each hop. A semiconductor optical amplifier based Mach-Zehnder interferometer wavelength converter performs reshaping. A Fabry-Perot filter all-optically recovers the clock from the incoming packets in burst mode. The synchronous modulation through a Mach-Zehnder modulator using the recovered clock performs retiming. The 3R regeneration maintains a good signal quality through multiple hops, which is important for scalable optical networking.
A Psychotherapy Group as a Sociopolitical Context: The Case of the `Silent Majority'

Group psychotherapy can be conceived as a sociopolitical context, wherein participants (as citizens) struggle to balance personal needs and rights against the collective requirements of the group to which they belong. Potential conflicts arise between: (1) a member's right to privacy and the group's need to know about its members; and (2) the will of the majority and the protection of the minority. Psychotherapeutic groups also face constituency problems that arise from inequality of opportunity, skills or feelings of self-worth that affect what members give and get. This article explores the relationship between individual and group needs, membership and leadership, and the evolution of an enabling group culture in the case of the `silent majority'.
Physical, histological and roentgenographic characteristics of the grey lethal mouse.

A project was undertaken to investigate the development of dental and osseous abnormalities in the grey lethal mouse. In this study particular attention was focused on the nature of these anomalies and the exact time of onset. Twenty-five grey lethal mice, with siblings serving as controls, were sacrificed at two day intervals from the eighth to the twentieth day. Color photographs and lateral full body radiographs were taken at each developmental stage studied. Microscopic sections of the jaws and femurs of each animal were prepared and stained with hema-toxylin and eosin. Abnormalities in the incisor region of the grey lethal mouse were demonstrated radiographically at the eighth day. Interference with Hertwig's sheath of the developing first molar tooth was observed histologically at the eighth day. Establishment of molar root bifurcation was not observed in the grey lethal mice. Bone resorption was retarded in both jaws and femurs. Differences between experimental and control animals became more apparent with increasing age. It was thought that apical root development and osseous apposition in the area of bifurcation of developing molars, as well as resorption of bone occlusal to the crowns of the teeth are constituents in axial movement of developing teeth. Evidence tending to support this concept is presented, since all three functions were shown to be altered in the noneruption dentition of the grey lethal mouse.
High Resolution Melting Analysis of the Cytochrome Oxidase I Gene Identifies Three Haplotypes of the Potato Psyllid in the United States

The potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Sulc) (Hemiptera: Triozidae), is a vector of the bacterium “Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum,” the putative causal agent of potato zebra chip disease that has seriously affected the potato industry in the Central and Southwestern United States for the past decade. The 2011 potato growing season saw the first report of zebra chip disease in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho; however, B. cockerelli has been recorded in this region every season at least for the past 7 yr. Studies were conducted to determine the relationship between psyllids collected from the Pacific Northwest potatoes in 2011 and those from the Southwestern and Central United States. High resolution melting analysis of the B. cockerelli mitochondrial Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit I-like gene was conducted on over 450 psyllids collected from numerous locations across the Central and Western United States. Results suggest that at least three potato psyllid haplotypes exist in the United States, correlating to the Central, Western, and Northwestern United States geographical regions. The high resolution melting analysis results were subsequently supported by DNA sequencing data.
Models of convection-driven tectonic plates: a comparison of methods and results

Recent numerical studies of convection in the earth's mantle have included various features of plate tectonics. This paper describes three methods of modeling plates: through material properties, through force balance, and through a thin power-law sheet approximation. The results obtained are compared using each method on a series of simple calculations. From these results, scaling relations between the different parameterizations are developed. While each method produces different degrees of deformation within the surface plate, the surface heat flux and average plate velocity agree to within a few percent. The main results are not dependent upon the plate modeling method and herefore are representative of the physical system modeled.
The use of formative online quizzes to enhance class preparation and scores on summative exams

Online quizzes were introduced into an undergraduate Exercise Physiology course to encourage students to read ahead and think critically about the course material before coming to class. The purpos...
The Social Worker in Interdisciplinary Care Planning

Nursing home social work services are integral to resident interdisciplinary care planning and treatments to meet residents' psychosocial needs. Data from the Online Survey Certification and Reporting database examine the relationship among numbers of qualified social workers, social service staff, and deficiency citation scores for resident assessment violations in 16,511 United States nursing homes in 2007. Using a generalized estimating equation, we show a relationship between numbers of qualified social workers, social service staff, and facilities' resident assessment-related deficiency scores. Having more qualified social workers and more social service staff is related to lower assessment deficiency scores supporting the important role of social workers and social services in nursing homes. Implications for evidence-based practice and policy are discussed.
Politician-Proof Policy?

In this paper the author discusses the nature of the political constraints that the World Bank faces in delivering basic services to the poor. The main problem arises because the Bank has to work through domestic governments which have political aims different from helping the poor. The conceptual approach attractive to economists and central to the World Development Report 2004 is the notion of politician proofing. Given that political incentives derail good policies, how can those policies be politician-proofed? The author argues that evidence and theory suggest that such an approach is ultimately futile, basically because we simply do not understand the relevant political incentives. He discusses alternative policy strategies and concludes that what is required is a much more fundamental assessment of what type of political equilibria deliver services to the poor. As illustrated in the case of Botswana, once the political equilibrium is right, everything goes right and politician proofing is redundant.
Microwave properties of suspended single-walled carbon nanotubes with a field-effect transistor configuration

Summary form only given, as follows. In this paper, microwave transmission properties of suspended single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have been investigated up to 7.1 GHz with a field-effect transistor (FET) configuration by measuring the two-port S-parameters under different gate bias voltages. An open-through de-embedding method has been used to extract the intrinsic properties of CNTs. A lumped-element equivalent circuit model has been used and the values of each component have been fitted as a function of gate bias voltage
Determination of chlorophenoxy acids using high-performance liquid chromatography—particle beam mass spectrometry

Abstract An isocratic mobile phase of methanol containing phenoxyacetic acid—dilute acetic acid (70:30) achieved a good high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) separation of 2,4-dichlorophenoxy-acetic acid (2,4-D), 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4,5-T) and 2-(2,4,5-trichlorophenoxy)propionic acid (Silvex). The HPLC eluate was introduced into a mass spectrometer operated under methane-enhanced electron-capture negative ionization conditions through the particle beam interface. With the mass spectrometer operated in selected-ion monitoring mode, detection limits in the low μg/l range were attained for all three acids. This is one of the first reports of liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry through the particle beam interface for the detection of chlorophenoxy acid herbicides.
Competency-Based Versus Task-Based Job Descriptions: Effects on Applicant Attraction

In order for organizations to attract applicants, they need to ensure they are using attractive recruitment techniques. Previous research has failed to examine the effect of varying types of job description formats on applicants’ level of attraction to an organization. This study examined applicants’ attraction to organizations based on competency-based and job-based job descriptions. Participants were finance, management, or nursing students actively or soon to be engaged in a job search. All were asked to evaluate two potential jobs based on provided job descriptions. One description was competency based and the other was task based. Job descriptions were tailored based on academic major and anticipated career goals. Personality and love of learning were also assessed as previous literature suggested these constructs could affect attraction to a particular job description. Overall results suggest no difference in attraction to the two types of job descriptions and love of learning was not related to applicant attraction. However, openness to experience was positively related to evaluations of competency-based job descriptions for nursing majors. Implications and future research are discussed.
T lymphocyte migration to lymph nodes is maintained during homeostatic proliferation.

The immune system maintains appropriate cell numbers through regulation of cell proliferation and death. Normal tissue distribution of lymphocytes is maintained through expression of specific adhesion molecules and chemokine receptors such as L-selectin and CCR7, respectively. Lymphocyte insufficiency or lymphopenia induces homeostatic proliferation of existing lymphocytes to increase cell numbers. Interestingly, homeostatic proliferation of T lymphocytes induces a phenotypic change from naive- to memory-type cell. Naive T cells recirculate between blood and lymphoid tissues whereas memory T cells migrate to nonlymphoid sites such as skin and gut. To assess effects of homeostatic proliferation on migratory ability of T cells, a murine model of lymphopenia-induced homeostatic proliferation was used. Carboxyfluorescein diacetate, succinimidyl ester-labeled wild-type splenocytes were adoptively transferred into recombination activation gene-1-deficient mice and analyzed by flow cytometry, in vitro chemotactic and in vivo migration assays, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Homeostatically proliferated T cells acquired a mixed memory-type CD44high L-selectinhigh CCR7low phenotype. Consistent with this, chemotaxis to secondary lymphoid tissue chemokine in vitro was reduced by 22%-34%. By contrast, no differences were found for migration or entry into lymph nodes during in vivo migration assays. Therefore, T lymphocytes that have undergone homeostatic proliferation recirculate using mechanisms similar to naive T cells.
Toxic megacolon due to ischemic enterocolitis associated with retroperitoneal fibrosis

A 46-yr-old man, in whom retroperitoneal fibrosis had been found 4 yr previously, presented with abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea, and marked dilation of the transverse colon with superficial ulceration. The megacolon was unresponsive to nasogastric suction, corticosteroids, antibiotics, and total parenteral nutrition. Arteriograms revealed total occlusion of the celiac axis and superior and inferior mesenteric arteries. Laparotomy showed encasement of the retroperitoneal vessels by dense fibrous tissue. A vascular bypass graft was performed, connecting the distal superior mesenteric artery to the right external iliac artery. This led to complete and lasting resolution of gastrointestinal complaints.
A feedback-based fault detection scheme for aircraft systems with damage

This paper addresses the design, analysis and evaluation of an adaptive feedback-based stable damage detection scheme applied to an aircraft system with structure damage and parameter uncertainties. An aircraft system damage model is presented which captures the key feature of the longitudinal and lateral-directional dynamic coupling caused by the aircraft structure damage. Two detectors are used to estimate decoupled nominal system parameters and coupled damaged system parameters. Unlike most fault detection schemes which operate under the assumption that all system signals remain bounded under damage conditions, the adaptive damage detection scheme proposed in this paper is equipped with an adaptive feedback controller which is designed to ensure the desired signal bound-edness condition needed for stable damage detection operation. By comparing estimation error residuals between the state signals of detectors and that of the aircraft system, system damage is detected. Desired adaptive damage detection performance is demonstrated by extensive simulation results from an application to a high-fidelity aircraft model — the nonlinear NASA Generic Transport Model (GTM) under wing damage conditions.