cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stability of difference equations arising in infinite dimensional backstepping

We examine the stability properties of a class of LTV difference equations on an infinite-dimensional state space that arise in backstepping designs for parabolic PDE's. The nominal system matrix of the-difference equation has a special structure: all of its powers have entries that are -1, 0, or 1, and all of the eigenvalues of the matrix are on the unit circle. The difference equation is driven by initial conditions, additive forcing, and a system matrix perturbation, all of which depend on problem data (for example, viscosity and reactivity in the case of a reaction-diffusion equation), and all of which go to zero as the discretization step in the backstepping design goes to zero. All of these observations, combined with the fact that the equation evolves only in a number of steps equal to the dimension of its state space, combined with the discrete Gronwall inequality, establish that the difference equation has bounded solutions. This, in turn, guarantees the existence of a state-feedback gain kernel in the backstepping control law. With this approach we greatly expand, relative to our previous results, the class of parabolic PDE's to which backstepping is applicable.
New Governance, Preemptive Self-Regulation, and the Blurring of Boundaries in RegulatoryTheory and Practice

In the literature on “new governance” forms of regulation, the blurring of traditional boundaries is a pervasive but largely implicit theme. This Article makes this theme explicit, and argues that the capacity to blur boundaries is one of new governance’s signature strengths. New governance regulation frequently blurs the roles of regulatory actors, the stages of regulation, the modes of regulation, the functions of a regulatory regime; and the structure of the regulatory regime. The Article applies this lens to a series of case studies, and demonstrates how industry attempts at preemptive self-regulation have created opportunities where new governance forms of regulation could have emerged. Turning prescriptive, this Article calls attention to the political and strategic dynamics around attempts to regulate new domains, and calls on policymakers and scholars to embrace the blurred boundaries of new governance approaches as a possible approach that combines the best of state-centered and self-regulatory forms of governance.
Flood Risk, Local Hazard Mitigation, and the Community Rating System of NFIP

Local governments play a critical role in flood hazard mitigation. Using community level panel data for all 100 North Carolina counties from 1999 to 2101, we estimate a dynamic regression model of implementation of flood mitigation projects as recognized by the Community Rating System (CRS) of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Our results indicate serial correlation in CRS point totals, which we interpret as incremental persistence in local hazard mitigation that likely reflects optimizing behavior of some local governments, targeting activities that are cheap and effective initially, and less efficient measures over time. Accounting for autocorrelation reduces estimates of covariate effects relative to models that do not account for dynamics. We find greater levels of flood hazard mitigation in communities with larger tax revenues and lower levels of crime and unemployment. Socioeconomic factors, such household income and population density, also effect hazard mitigation. We find only weak evidence of the effect of flood experience and counterintuitive results for a proxy for flood vulnerability.
Speak softly to the dead: the uses of enchantment in American home funerals

Home funerals are a small social movement in which American families care for their dead at home. This article argues that home funerals offer a generative view of the tension between the body as biological and social construction, matter and meaning, object and subject. In home funerals, the dead body is enacted as possessing a fading spark of agency and subjectivity, animating the dead against the grain of medical and scientific conceptions of the corpse as inert object. Home funerals provocatively engage questions about the forms of care and communication available between the living and the dead.
Characterization of a thermal interface material for burn-in application

A series of tests to characterize the suitability of a material as a thermal interface for burn-in applications were generated. These tests include thermal resistance at elevated temperature, thermal resistance as a function of cycle number, mechanical cycling with and without shear, extended high temperature exposure, residue measurements, mechanical compliance measurements, and tensile and shear strength measurements. Results from testing were used to optimize an in house thermal interface material to withstand repetitive burn-in cycles without requiring replacement.
Ultrafine titanium dioxide nanoparticles induce cell death in human bronchial epithelial cells

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (TNPs), once perceived as harmless, have been shown to induce cytotoxicity on various cell types under UV radiation. However, whether TNPs elicit cell death in the absence of UV has not been thoroughly studied. This study aims to investigate the TNPs-induced cell death mechanism in UV-absent condition by examining the reduction of cell viability and apoptotic cell death characteristics in the human bronchial epithelial cell line, Chago-K1. The Chago-K1 cells were exposed to TNPs for 24 h at concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 2 mg mL−1. CCK-8 and Live/Dead assays demonstrating diminishing cell viability indicate that peak cell death occurred around 2 mg mL−1 TNPs after 24 h treatment in darkness. Apoptotic related cell death mechanisms were demonstrated by chromatin condensation and translocation of phosphatidylserine with Annexin V staining. Here we demonstrate that ultrafine TNPs (75 nm) in darkness can induce significant cytotoxicity on the Chago-K1 cells possibly t...
Ferroelectric thin-film active sensors for structural health monitoring

Piezoelectric wafer active sensors (PWAS) have been proven a valuable tool in structural health monitoring. Piezoelectric wafer active sensors are able to send and receive guided Lamb/Rayleigh waves that scan the structure and detect the presence of incipient cracks and structural damage. In-situ thin-film active sensor deposition can eliminate the bonding layer to improve the durability issue and reduce the acoustic impedance mismatch. Ferroelectric thin films have been shown to have piezoelectric properties that are close to those of single-crystal ferroelectrics but the fabrication of ferroelectric thin films on structural materials (steel, aluminum, titanium, etc.) has not been yet attempted. In this work, in-situ fabrication method of piezoelectric thin-film active sensors arrays was developed using the nano technology approach. Specification for the piezoelectric thin-film active sensors arrays was based on electro-mechanical-acoustical model. Ferroelectric BaTiO3 (BTO) thin films were successfully deposited on Ni tapes by pulsed laser deposition under the optimal synthesis conditions. Microstructural studies by X-ray diffractometer and transmission electron microscopy reveal that the as-grown BTO thin films have the nanopillar structures with an average size of approximately 80 nm in diameter and the good interface structures with no inter-diffusion or reaction. The dielectric and ferroelectric property measurements exhibit that the BTO films have a relatively large dielectric constant, a small dielectric loss, and an extremely large piezoelectric response with a symmetric hysteresis loop. The research objective is to develop the fabrication and optimum design of thin-film active sensor arrays for structural health monitoring applications. The short wavelengths of the micro phased arrays will permit the phased-array imaging of smaller parts and smaller damage than is currently not possible with existing technology.
Infected total hip arthroplasty after intravesical bacillus Calmette-Guérin therapy.

An infected total hip arthroplasty remains one of the most challenging problems faced by orthopedic surgeons. We present the case of a 76-year-old man with an unusual infected total hip arthroplasty. Four years before presenting to our service, the patient was treated for vesical transitional cell carcinoma with intravesical administration of bacille Calmette-Guerin. The patient presented with groin pain, radiographic loosening of the hip implant, and elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. He underwent irrigation and debridement of the hip with removal of components. Cultures isolated bacille Calmette-Guerin necessitating treatment with antituberculosis chemotherapy. Bone cultures obtained under computed tomography guidance were negative, and reimplantation surgery was performed with a successful outcome. Pathway of infection spread, diagnosis, and treatment of this rare infection are discussed with review of the literature.
Sphenoid sinusitis: Medical management

Abstract Sphenoid sinusitis may present with nonspecific symptoms, particularly when other sinuses are also inflamed. Diagnosis can be made with a combination of history, physical examination, and imaging. Prompt treatment is essential to avoid possible complications. Medical therapy focused on infection, inflammation, and obstruction may be adequate for resolution, but surgical intervention may be required in certain situations.
Rejection with heart failure after pediatric cardiac transplantation

Abstract Background . Rejection associated with heart failure or death occurs after pediatric cardiac transplantation but has had limited analysis. Methods . We analyzed the records of 96 consecutive pediatric cardiac transplant recipients who survived to hospital discharge. Results . Eighteen patients (19%) experienced 23 episodes of heart failure or death associated with rejection. Univariate analysis demonstrated black race ( p = 0.041), transplantation after 12 months of age ( p = 0.032), later time after transplantation ( p = 0.037), rejection episode in the first year after transplantation ( p = 0.001), and history of two or more rejection episodes ( p p Conclusions . This study identified pediatric heart transplant recipients with a history of previous rejection episodes to be at a higher risk for symptomatic or fatal rejection. Further studies are needed to determine if intensification of maintenance immunosuppression, long-term rejection surveillance, or both in patients with multiple rejection episodes could reduce morbidity and mortality from rejection.
109 EFFECTS OF LIPOLYTIC AGENTS FORSKOLIN, EPINEPHRINE AND CAFFEINE ON EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT AND LIPID CONTENT OF BOVINE EMBRYOS PRODUCED IN VITRO

The objective of this experiment was to evaluate lipid accumulation and embryonic development of bovine morulae treated with different chemicals. A total of 2619 slaughterhouse oocytes from heifers and mature cows were matured in CDM medium (similar to SOF) plus 0.5% fatty acid-free BSA and hormones (M-CDM) for 23 h at 38.5°C in 5% CO2 in air. Frozen–thawed sperm were centrifuged through a Percoll gradient and co-cultured with matured oocytes for 18 h in F-CDM (CDM+heparin). Zygotes were cultured at 38.5°C in 5% CO2/5% O2/90% N2 in CDM-1 with nonessential amino acids, 10 μm EDTA, 0.5% fatty acid free BSA, and 0.5 mm fructose. After 60 h, resulting 8-cell embryos were cultured 120 h in CDM-2 (CDM-1+essential amino acids and 2 mm fructose). A factorial design was used with 7 treatments, 2 ovary sources (cows v. heifers), and 3 bulls (A, B and C) replicated twice for each bull (6 replicates). At Day 2.5 embryo cleavage and 8-cell rates were evaluated, and on Day 6 a total of 755 morulae were randomly assigned to the 7 treatments (control, 2 and 8 mm caffeine, 1 and 4 μm epinephrine, and 10 and 40 μm forskolin). To quantify lipid accumulation, Day 7 blastocysts were fixed and stained with 1 μg mL–1 Nile red dye, after which a digital photograph of the equatorial part of the embryo (including the inner cell mass) was taken at 200×, and fluorescence intensity was measured with Image Pro software from 0 to 255 shades for each pixel (0 = no lipids; 255 = greatest lipid accumulation), as previously reported (Biol. Reprod. 2007 (Suppl. 1), 87–88). Data were analyzed by ANOVA. No differences in cleavage rates (75 v. 68 ± 3.6%) or eight cell rates (61 ± v. 57 ± 2.8%) were found for heifer v. cow oocytes (P > 0.1); however, blastocyst rates per oocyte and per 8-cell embryo were greater for cows than heifers (20 v. 10 ± 2.1%, and 68 v. 35 ± 3.8%, respectively; P < 0.05). Treatments: 2 and 8 mm caffeine produced fewer blastocysts per morula than 1 and 4 μm epinephrine, 10 and 40 μm forskolin and the control (39, 5 v. 54, 49, 48, 54 and 52 ± 5.8%; respectively) (P < 0.01). More lipid content was found in whole embryos and trophoblast of heifer-derived than cow blastocysts (P < 0.05), and forskolin resulted in less lipid content than control, caffeine- and epinephrine-treated morulae in whole embryos, embryonic mass and trophoblasts (P < 0.05; Table 1). In conclusion, mature cows were a better source of oocytes than feedlot heifers for embryonic development. High doses of caffeine were detrimental to embryos, and the addition of the lypolitic agent forskolin reduced lipid content relative to control, caffeine and epinephrine-treated embryos. Table 1.Main effect treatment means of lipid content (arbitrary fluorescence units)
Medical error prevention in ED triage for ACS: use of cardiac care decision support and quality improvement feedback.

Medical errors in the care of patients who present with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) include errors in emergency department (ED) triage, such as the decision to send home a patient who presents with ACS or to hospitalizea patient who does not have ACS to the cardiac care unit (CCU), and errors in treatment, such as the failure to promptly use reperfusion therapy for patients who present with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (AMI). ECG-based acute cardiac ischemia time-insensitive predictive instrument (ACI-TIPI) and thrombolytic predictive instruments (TPIs), with a linked TIPI information system (TIPI-IS), provide real-time, concurrent, and retrospective decision support tools and feedback for the prevention of medical errors in the care of patients who present with ACS. In real-time, ACI-TIPI probabilities printed on the ECG header for the ED physician, provide an additional piece of information for triage decision making, and the ACI-TIPI Risk Management form reduces liability risk by prompting consideration and documentation of key clinical factors in the diagnosis of ACI. Also in real-time, the TPI increases overall coronary reperfusion therapy use. Concurrent flagging by TIPI-IS uses electronically acquired ECG and hospital data to provide concurrent alerts about potential misdiagnosis or mis-triage of patients with ACS. Retrospectively TIPI-IS-based feedback reports allow performance improvement. These examples of information technology tools integrated into EC'G equipment already used in hospitals to deliver patient care demonstrate the potential to adapt other existing equipment or other patient care activities to enhance patient safety and error reduction.
Relative Efficiency of R2 and B2 in Regression Analysis for Calibration and Formulation

AbstractThe assessment of the adequacy of a regression equation, as measured by the degree of closeness of the predicted values and their respective observed values is accomplished by the two contending statistics, R2 and B2. The derivation of the two statistics is presented and their relative performances are examined in the context of several pharmaceutics experiments involving, calibration, validation and formulation. The results strongly indicate that the B2-statistic is much more sensitive and efficient than the R2-statistic which has a tendency to inflate the magnitude irrespective of the data structure.
Probabilistic fatigue damage prognosis using maximum entropy approach

A general framework for probabilistic fatigue damage prognosis using maximum entropy concept is proposed and developed in this paper. The fatigue damage is calculated using a physics-based crack growth model. Due to the stochastic nature of fatigue crack propagation process, uncertainties arising from the underlying physical model, parameters of the model and the response variable measurement noise are considered and integrated into this framework. Incorporating all those uncertainties, a maximum relative entropy (MRE) approach is proposed to update the statistical description of model parameters and narrow down the prognosis deviations. A Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation is then employed to generate samples from updated posterior probability distributions and provide statistical information for the maximum relative entropy updating procedure. A numerical toy problem is given to demonstrate the proposed MRE prognosis methodology. Experimental data for aluminum alloys are used to validate model predictions under uncertainty. Following this, a detailed comparison between the proposed MRE approach and the classical Bayesian updating method is performed to illustrate advantages of the proposed prognosis framework.
A polynomial approximation scheme for a constrained flow-shop scheduling problem

We present a polynomial approximation scheme for a two-machine flow shop scheduling problem with the additional constraint that each job has a release date, when it first becomes available for processing. This is one of the first such results for multiple-task scheduling problems; previously, the best approximation result for this problem was an algorithm guaranteed to deliver a schedule of length at most 5/3 times the optimal length. Our 1 + e-approximation algorithm is intuitively appealing because it is based on Johnson's algorithm, an optimization algorithm for the problem without release dates.
Recent advances toward defining the benefits and risks of erythrocyte transfusions in neonates

Like many treatments available to small or ill neonates, erythrocyte transfusions carry both benefits and risks. This review examines recent publications aimed at better defining those benefits and those risks, as means of advancing evidence-based neonatal intensive care unit transfusion practices. Since decisions regarding whether to not to order an erythrocyte transfusion are based, in part, on the neonate's blood haemoglobin concentration, the authors also review recent studies aimed at preventing the haemoglobin from falling to a point where a transfusion is considered.
Neuroimaging and neuropsychological follow-up study in a pediatric brain tumor patient treated with surgery and radiation

Intracranial tumors are the most common neoplasms of childhood, accounting for approximately 20% of all pediatric malignancies. Radiation therapy has led directly to significant increases in survival of children with certain types of intracranial tumors; however, given the aggressive nature of this therapy, children are at risk for exhibiting changes in brain structure, neuronal biochemistry, and neurocognitive functioning. In this case report, we present neuropsychological, magnetic resonance imaging, proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging, and diffusion tensor imaging data for two adolescents (one patient with ependymal spinal cord tumor with intracranial metastases, and one healthy, typically developing control) from three time points as defined by the patient's radiation schedule (baseline before the patient's radiation therapy, 6 months following completion of the patient's radiation, and 27 months following the patient's radiation). In the patient, there were progressive decreases in gray and white matter volumes as well as early decreases in mean N-acetyl aspartate/choline (NAA/Cho) ratios and fractional anisotropy (FA) in regions with normal appearance on conventional MRI. At the last follow-up, NAA/Cho and FA tended to change in the direction to normal values in selected regions. At the same time, the patient had initial reduction in language and motor skills, followed by return to baseline, but later onset delay in visuospatial and visual perceptual skills. Results are discussed in terms of sensitivity of the four techniques to early and late effects of treatment, and avenues for future investigations.
Homogenization of dynamic laminates

Abstract This paper addresses the study of the homogenization problem associated with propagation of long wave disturbances in materials whose properties exhibit not only spacial but also temporal inhomogeneities (called dynamic materials). The study was initiated by Lurie in his pioneering work of 1997. Homogenization theory is employed to replace an equation with oscillating coefficients by a homogenized equation. Two typical examples of periodic homogenization are considered: the wave equation and Maxwell's system coefficients oscillating rapidly not only in space but also in time. Conditions that generate applicability of the homogenization procedure to dynamic materials composites are developed. In particular, we examine a cell problem for periodic composites as well as the laminate formulae. The effective tensors of rank-one laminates for one-dimensional wave equation and the full Maxwell's system are computed explicitly. We also note some dramatic differences between the hyperbolic and the elliptic cases.
Controlled trial of a single dose of synthetic surfactant at birth in premature infants weighing 500 to 699 grams

In a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted at 23 hospitals in the United States, a single prophylactic 5 ml/kg dose of a synthetic surfactant (Exosurf Neonatal) or air placebo was administered shortly after birth to 215 infants with birth weights of 500 to 699 gm. Despite stratification at entry by birth weight and gender, by chance female infants predominated in the air placebo group and male infants predominated in the surfactant group. Among infants receiving synthetic surfactant, improvements in oxygen requirements were significant at 2 hours after birth ( p =0.014) and persisted for 3 days ( p =0.001); improvements in the alveolar-arterial partial pressure of oxygen gradient were significant at 6 hours after birth ( p =0.01) and persisted for 3 days ( p =0.008). Improvements in mean airway pressure were not significant at 2 or at 6 hours after birth ( p =0.622 and 0.083, respectively), but became significant thereafter and persisted for 3 days ( p =0.002). Pneumothorax was reduced by slightly more than half (25 vs 11; p =0.014); death from respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) was also reduced (26 vs 15; p =0.046). Overall neonatal mortality, however, was not significantly reduced (58 vs 46; p =0.102). Other complications of RDS and prematurity were not altered, except that pulmonary hemorrhage occurred significantly more frequently in infants receiving synthetic surfactant (2 vs 12; p =0.006). These findings indicate that a single prophylactic dose of synthetic surfactant in infants weighing 500 to 699 gm at birth improves lung function, incidence of air leak, and death from RDS but not overall mortality. The only safety problem identified was an increase in pulmonary hemorrhage.
Studies on the hydrolysis of 3-methyl-2′-deoxycytidine in aqueous solution A synthesis of 3-methyl-2′-deoxyuridine

Abstract The hydrolysis of 3-methyl-2′-deoxycytidine in aqueous solution has been investigated. Varying proportions of 3-methylcytosine, 3-methyluracil and 3-methyl-2′-deoxyuridine are formed depending upon conditions of pH and temperature. All three hydrolytic products are formed at pH 6.8 and 90°C. At pH 2, depyrimidination of 3-methylcytosine occurs as the only hydrolysis product. When the pH is increased to 12, 3-methyl-2′-deoxycytidine on heating at 90°C is completely deaminated to 3-methyl-2′-deoxyuridine with few side products formed. This reaction serves as the basis for a convenient synthesis of 3-methyl-2′-deoxyuridine. The 300 MHz spectra of 3-methyl-2′-deoxycytidine and 3-methyl-2′-deoxyuridine indicate that the sugar ring in these compounds is predominantly in 2 E conformation.
CORRELATION OF BIRTH WEIGHT TO AWI-MOPJMRTRSC VARIABLES IN THE NEONATE

The weight at birth indicates the nutritional status of the neonate. Skinfold thickness has been shown to reflect fat content of the body. The aim of the present study is to assess the correlation of birth weight with limb circumference (calf upper arm) and skinfold thickness (triceps, ileac crest and chest). One hundred newborns were studied from normal nursery. The analysis of results are as follows: The results of this data show a linear correlation between the circumference of the calf and the upper arm to the birth weight. Similar results are obtained when analyzing the data for sex and race. These circumferences can be used as another valuable parameter in assessing growth and nutrition of the baby at birth. Skinfold thickness measurements do not correlate with birth weight.
The quantitation of G- and F-actin in cultured cells

An improved method to quantitate the amounts of filamentous (F-actin) and monomeric (globular) actin (G-actin) in cultured cells was developed. Cells are lysed into a myosin-containing buffer and F-actin is removed by centrifugation. The pelleted F-actin is then depolymerized to G-actin in a 1 mM ATP-containing buffer for 1 h before measuring the levels of G-actin using the DNase I inhibition assay. Partitioning of G-actin in the supernatant (greater than 95%) and recovery of actin in both fractions (greater than 85%) were measured by adding [3H]actin to cultured cells. Actin in the separated fractions is stable for at least 72 h at 0 degree C. Asynchronous monolayer cultures of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells contain 2.5 +/- 0.2% of the total protein as actin with 72.4 +/- 5.7% as F-actin. About 10% of this F-actin is not associated with the readily sedimented Triton-cytoskeleton. CHO cells grown in suspension contain 55.8% of the actin as F-actin; following plating about 90 min is required for these cells to flatten and for the F-actin level to reach the monolayer value of about 70%.
A distributed Newton's method for joint multi-hop routing and flow control: Theory and algorithm

The fast growing scale and heterogeneity of current communication networks necessitate the design of distributed cross-layer optimization algorithms. So far, the standard approach of distributed cross-layer design is based on dual decomposition and the subgradient algorithm, which is a first-order method that has a slow convergence rate. In this paper, we focus on solving a joint multi-path routing and flow control (MRFC) problem by designing a new distributed Newton's method, which is a second-order method and enjoys a quadratic rate of convergence. The major challenges in developing a distributed Newton's method lie in decentralizing the computation of the Hessian matrix and its inverse for both the primal Newton direction and dual variable updates. By appropriately reformulating, rearranging, and exploiting the special problem structures, we show that it is possible to decompose such computations into source nodes and links in the network, thus eliminating the need for global information. Furthermore, we derive closed-form expressions for both the primal Newton direction and dual variable updates, thus significantly reducing the computational complexity. The most attractive feature of our proposed distributed Newton's method is that it requires almost the same scale of information exchange as in first-order methods, while achieving a quadratic rate of convergence as in centralized Newton methods. We provide extensive numerical results to demonstrate the efficacy of our proposed algorithm. Our work contributes to the advanced paradigm shift in cross-layer network design that is evolving from first-order to second-order methods.
Voluntary control of behavior and responsibility.

Hyman's (2007) sensible, sophisticated, and balanced article makes the following important points about addictions. Whether addiction should be considered a disease, a moral failure, or sometimes b...
Functional Fcgamma Receptor Polymorphisms Are Associated with Human Allergy

Objective IgG Fc receptors (FcγRs) play important roles in immune responses. It is not clear whether FcγR receptors play a role in human asthma and allergy. The aim of current study was to investigate whether functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of FcγR genes (FCGR) are associated with human asthma and allergy. Methods Functional SNPs of FCGR2A (FcγRIIA-131His>Arg, rs1801274), FCGR2B (FcγRIIB-187Ile>Thr, rs1050501), FCGR2C (FcγRIIC-13Gln>Stop, rs10917661), FCGR3A (FcγRIIIA-158Val>Phe, rs396991), and FCGR3B variants (FcγRIIIB NA1 and NA2) were genotyped in an asthma family cohort including 370 atopy positive, 239 atopy negative, and 169 asthma positive subjects. The genotype and phenotype data (asthma, bronchial hyper-responsiveness, and atopy) of subjects were analyzed using family-based association tests (FBAT) and logistic regression adjusted for age and sex. Result The FcγRIIA-131His>Arg SNP is significantly associated with atopy in a family-based association test (P = 0.00287) and in a logistic regression analysis (P = 0.0269, OR 0.732, 95% CI: 0.555–0.965). The FcγRIIA-131His (or rs1801274-A) allele capable of binding human IgG2 has a protective role against atopy. In addition, the rare FcγRIIB-187Thr (or rs1050501-C) allele defective for the receptor-mediated inhibitory signals is a risk factor for atopy (P = 0.0031, OR 1.758, 95% CI: 1.209–2.556) and IgE production (P 0.05). Conclusions FcγRIIA and FcγRIIB functional polymorphisms may have a role in the pathogenesis of allergy.
3D Optical and device simulation of surface plasmonic effects on organic solar cells using silver nano prisms

We explore the enhancement of light absorption due to triangle-shaped silver nanoprisms in P3HT:PCBM active layer and its impact on organic solar cell performance by coupling optical and electronic device simulation. We use optical simulation via FDTD solution of Maxwell's equations in order to calculate the surface plasmonic resonance at the interface of P3HT:PCBM and silver nanoprisms. The presence of silver nanoprisms results in dramatic local enhancement of optical absorption. We explore different design of silver nanoprisms by changing sizes, densities, and relative orientations to see their impact on optical carrier generation. From the device modeling point of view, a thinner active layer enabled by enhanced absorption reduces the mismatch of light absorption depth with exciton dissociation length. We use the Sentaurus Device simulator (Synopsys®), adapted with material-specific models for electronic polymers, to explore the impact of surface plasmon resonance on device behavior. The coupling of optical and electrical simulation gives a short-circuit current increase of 3 times for 35nm ultra-thin active layer with silver nanoprisms, consistent with experiment[1].
N-Diazo-Bridged Nitroazoles: Catenated Nitrogen-Atom Chains Compatible with Nitro Functionalities

N-diazo-bridged azoles were synthesized based on oxidative coupling of N-aminoazoles. Incorporation of extended catenated nitrogen-atom chains with nitro groups led to compounds with favorable functional compatibilities. This combination gives rise to a series of high-density energetic materials (HEDMs) with high heats of formation, enhanced densities, positive oxygen balances, and good detonation properties while retaining excellent thermal stabilities and relatively low impact sensitivities. Calculated and experimental studies showed the delicate balance between the length of the nitrogen atom chain, energetic performance, and inherent stability, thus, providing a promising strategy for designing advanced energetic materials.
Effects of intermittent electric shock on penile reflexes of male rats

The effects of mildly painful electric shock in facilitating copulatory responses of male rats is well established. It is also well established that the intensity of some spinal reflexes such as the flexion reflex can be enhanced by electric shock. This study examined the effects of the electrical shock on the spinal timing mechanism governing the occurrence of penile reflexes. Intermittent electric shock applied to the flank region of spinal male rats reduced the intervals between the clusters of penile reflexes about 30%. Interestingly, this is approximately the same magnitude by which flank shock facilitates sexual responding in spinally intact animals. The type of reflex plasticity revealed by the shock treatment of spinal rats is different than that reported previously in experiments on reflex sensitization.
Wood-to-energy expansion, forest ownership changes, and mill closure: Consequences for U.S. South's wood supply chain

Abstract The U.S. South's wood supply chain has undergone major changes over the past two decades in terms of forestland ownership and forest industry structure. Recent interest in producing energy from wood has raised questions about how a vibrant wood-energy market will impact the traditional southern wood supply chain. By using a survey of consulting foresters, this study examined how harvest tract size, forest ownership, and forest industry structure have changed within the U.S. South and how foresters expect the wood-energy market to impact the wood supply chain in the future. Results indicate that there are currently inadequate markets for timber as a result of expanded timber supply and reduced forest products industry capacity. Only 12% of respondents reported having sold timber to an energy facility, although 98% of respondents report their clients are willing to sell to an energy facility. In addition, 89% of respondents believe that a vibrant wood-energy market will provide an additional market for timber and will not displace forest products industry capacity. This study found excess logging capacity as evidenced by frequent mill quotas; however, an aging logging workforce and tight credit markets make logging capacity uncertain in the long term as the U.S. economy rebounds from recession and wood-energy demand increases. The percentage of respondents reporting an average harvest tract size over 16 ha (40 ac) decreased from 95% in 1999, to 70% in 2009, and only 47% predict an average harvest tract size over 16 ha (40 ac) in 2019. This study suggests that the southern wood supply chain is in position to take advantage of an expanded wood-energy market; however, decreasing harvest tract sizes, increasing urbanization, and a decline in the forest products industry are lingering issues for landowners, mills, foresters, and loggers in the South.
Tolerance analysis and design of nesting forces for exactly constrained mechanical assemblies

In this research we investigate the analysis and design of nesting forces for exactly constrained mechanical assemblies. Exactly constrained assemblies have a number of important advantages over other assemblies including the ability to assemble over a wide range of conditions. Such designs often require nesting forces to keep the design properly seated. To date, little theory has been developed for the analysis and design of nesting forces. We show how the effects of tolerances on nesting forces, a key issue, can be analyzed and then apply the analysis to two example problems. Good agreement is obtained between the method and Monte Carlo simulation.
Thyroid autoimmunity in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus: The case for routine screening

Of 771 young diabetic patients, thyroid microsomal autoantibodies occurred in 136 (17.6%) at a female/male ratio of nearly 2:1 and with a predominance of white patients (20.1%) over black patients (5.5%) (P
Long-term outcome of reoperations for medullary thyroid carcinoma

Background Most patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) have persistent disease after primary surgery, as evidenced by calcitonin elevation. Previous reports showed that reoperation on selected patients yields immediate calcitonin normalization in one-third of patients. Long-term follow-up data are needed to assess the outcome in such patients. This report aims to provide 8– to 10–year follow-up on reoperations for persistent or recurrent MTC.
Application of superresolution algorithm to optical coherent imaging

The Super-SVA algorithm has been shown effective for improving the resolution of microwave synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) images. In this paper we review the Super-SVA algorithm and demonstrate its application to optical imaging systems using coherent laser illumination. Examples of such imaging systems include heterodyne-array imaging, holographic laser radar, laser synthetic-aperture radar, coherent phase retrieval from pupil-plane intensities, and SCIP (sheared-beam imaging). We consider the case of a bright object on a dark background. We show the difference in performance for different features of the image -- prominent points versus extended, diffuse areas.
Synthesis and Fabrication of Multifunctional Nanocomposites: Stable Dispersions of Nanoparticles Tethered with Short, Dense and Polydisperse Polymer Brushes in Poly(methyl methacrylate)

This paper presents a melt-processable multifunctional nanocomposite material that shows highly controlled tunability in refractive index, glass transition temperature ( T g ) and energy bandgap. ZnO quantum dots tethered with polymer brushes are melt-blended into the matrix polymer, giving rise to multiple functionalities in the nanocomposites. Brush–matrix polymer interactions are important in determining the ability of polymer-grafted nanoparticles to disperse in a polymer melt, of which graft density ( σ ), brush ( N ) and matrix ( P ) polymer lengths are the critical parameters. It is generally assumed that long polymer brushes ( N > P ) and an optimum graft density are necessary to achieve a good dispersion. Here it is demonstrated that nanoparticles tethered with short, dense and polydisperse polymer brushes via radical copolymerization can exhibit a stable, fi ne dispersion in the polymer melt. The quality of the dispersion of the nanoparticles is characterized by measuring physical properties that are sensitive to the state of the dispersion. This synthesis method presents a general approach for the inexpensive and high-throughput fabrication of high quality, melt-blendable nanocomposites that incorporate functional nanoparticles, paving the way for wider application of high performance nanocomposites.
Oxygen consumption of the dragonfly, Anax junius.

Abstract Oxygen consumption by Anax junius was found to vary with body weight, life stage, and temperature. Regression analysis of log of oxygen consumption against log of dry body weight at 13, 20, 27, and 34°C resulted in respective coefficients of regression of −0·3153, −0·2410, −0·0298, and −0·0169. Larvae approaching the final instar consumed oxygen less slowly than early instar larvae at 13 and 20°C but had similar rates at 27 and 34°C. Neither season (spring vs. summer) nor mode of expressing body weight (dry weight vs. ash-free dry weight) influenced the calculated value of larval oxygen consumption.
Optimisation of the management of patients with coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a prevalent disease in Westernised society, and more than 50% of individuals with diabetes mellitus die from cardiovascular causes. The underlying metabolic defect of type 2 diabetes mellitus is a combination of insulin resistance and decreased secretion of insulin by pancreatic β-cells. Insulin resistance commonly precedes the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus and is usually associated with a metabolic syndrome including hypertension, dyslipidaemia and obesity. Treatment of known cardiovascular risk factors, including hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and smoking, plays a key role in delaying the onset and progression of coronary heart disease (CHD) and other forms of atherosclerosis in patients with diabetes mellitus. Sulphonylureas should be used with caution in patients with CHD but aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), β-blockers and ACE inhibitors play an important role in the medical management of patients with established coronary artery disease and diabetes mellitus. Patients with diabetes mellitus represent a higher risk group of patients after both percutaneous and surgical coronary revascularisation and the decision regarding the choice of revascularisation procedure should take into account angiographic characteristics, clinical status and patient preference. Patients presenting with diabetes mellitus and acute myocardial infarction should be considered for reperfusion therapy with either urgent thrombolytic therapy or primary percutaneous coronary intervention.
The Existence and Emotional Closeness of Relationships with Children, Friends, and Spouses The Effect on Loneliness among Older Persons

Based on a social support model, the authors analyzed the association between the experience of loneliness and the emotional closeness older persons have in their social relationships with their children, friends, and spouses. The effects on loneliness of age, sex, subjective health status, economic situation, need for attachment, and need for social integration were also examined and controlled. Results are based on 1,071 participants in the congregate and home-delivered meal programs of the Senior Citizens Nutrition and Activities Program in Hillsborough County, Florida. An analysis of covariance showed that the loneliness expressed by these older persons was related, not to variation in age, but to their gender, health status, and economic condition; their needs for affection and security, and desire to be part of a social network; and the existence, but not the emotional commitment, to a set of friends. Whether these persons had children or spouses or not, and if they had either, and were emotionally ...
Combining Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization and Cyclic Ester Ring-Opening Polymerization To Form ABA Triblock Copolymers from 1,5-Cyclooctadiene and D,L-Lactide

ABA triblock copolymers were synthesized by combining ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) of 1,5-cyclooctadiene (COD) with ring-opening polymerization of d,l-lactide. Hydroxyl-functionalized telechelic polyCOD was prepared by taking advantage of chain transfer during ROMP of COD using the acyclic chain transfer agent cis-1,4-diacetoxy-2-butene. These hydroxy-terminated macroinitiators were used as initiators for the polymerization of lactide to form a series of triblock copolymers with compositions in the range 0.24 ≤ fPLA ≤ 0.89 and molecular weights ranging from 22 to 196 kg mol−1. The ordered-state morphologies of the triblocks were determined using small-angle X-ray scattering; well-ordered microstructures were observed for several samples, in accordance with the predicted dependence of morphology on composition. The mechanical properties of these materials were also investigated by performing tensile measurements; the triblocks were considerably tougher than poly(d,l-lactide), most markedly...
THE AUTOSHAPING PROCEDURE AS A RESIDUAL BLOCK CLOCK

In the first experiment, 4 pigeons were each presented with a recurring sequence of four key colors followed by the delivery of grain (block clock). Once the rate of pecking had stabilized, three of the colors were replaced, during different series of sessions, by a darkening of the key. The rate of pecking was reduced within those segments of the interval between deliveries of food during which the key was dark; when the key was dark during the final portion of the interval, rates were reduced throughout the entire interval. In the second experiment, 3 new pigeons were exposed to a different sequence of colors, and the final stimulus was replaced in successive conditions by a novel color, a darkened key, and a restoration of the original color. The data indicated that darkening the key had a more severe, more extensive, and more persistent effect than did a mere change in color. These results suggest that it may be fruitful to conceptualize the autoshaping procedure as a special version of the block clock in which pecking is suppressed throughout the greater part of the interval by darkening the key. In the final condition, the same stimulus appeared in each of the last three portions of the interval. The rate of pecking was lower during the last two portions than when distinctive colors were presented, with the peak rate now appearing in the fifth of seven equal temporal components.
Measuring degrees of combustibility using an OSU apparatus and oxygen-depletion principle

Responding to a demand from the code writing committees for a test capable of quantitatively measuring low degrees of combustibility instead of the pass/fail of the existing non-combustibility test, the Institute for Research in Construction has developed a degrees-of-combustibility test. A version of the Ohio State University (OSU) heat release rate (HRR) apparatus, with Federal Aviation Administration modifications, has been further modified by adding an oxygen-measuring system and by reducing the airflow rate. HRR values of four sample materials have been measured, the peak rates of which ranged from 8 to 300 kW/m2. For measuring small values of HRR, an enclosed system of OSU apparatus is shown to have advantages over the open system of the cone calorimeter. In the OSU apparatus, by reducing airflow to combustion, the oxygen depletion can be increased to increase the sensitivity and accuracy of HRR measurement.
Reconstruction of the Shallow Vestibule Edentulous Mandible With Simultaneous Split Thickness Skin Graft Vestibuloplasty and Mandibular Endosseous Implants for Implant-Supported Overdentures

Purpose To evaluate the long-term outcome of simultaneous split thickness skin graft (STSG) vestibuloplasty and endosseous implant placement for implant-supported overdentures in patients with shallow mandibular vestibules. Patients and Methods This was a retrospective evaluation of 13 consecutive white male patients who underwent simultaneous mandibular vestibuloplasty with STSG combined with placement of 2 to 4 mandibular endosseous implants for construction of an implant-supported mandibular overdenture with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. Patients' charts were evaluated for implant survival and prosthetic success. Results Thirteen male patients at an average age of 60.4 years who had undergone simultaneous STSG mandibular vestibuloplasty and endosseous implant placement in the anterior mandible, were followed for an average of 43 months and were retrospectively evaluated. A total of 40 implants (average of 3 implants per patient) were placed in the anterior mandible in preparation for an implant-supported overdenture placement. There were no complications in graft or recipient sites, implant placement, or overdenture construction. The endosseous dental implant integration rate was 97.5% and the prosthetic success rate was 100%. Conclusion Simultaneous STSG mandibular vestibuloplasty for vestibular lengthening and placement of mandibular endosseous implants in preparation for mandibular implant-supported overdentures is a reliable method in patients with shallow mandibular vestibules.
Temporal correlations, universality, and multifractality in a spring-block model of earthquakes

We characterize the complex temporal structure of the earthquake activity in a nonconservative spring-block model of earthquakes. The temporal sequence of the occurrence of earthquakes is observed to be multifractal. The clustering (temporal correlations) between earthquakes is characterized by a universal exponent. Those correlations disappear when the model becomes conservative.
Some Amalgams in Characteristic 3 Related toCo1

Abstract Co 1 has parabolic subgroups of the shape 3 6 2 M 12 and 3 1 + 4 Sp 4 (3) · 2. Lyons' simple group Ly has parabolics of the form 3 5 ( M 11 × 2) and 3 2 + 4 A 5 D 8 . We will characterize these parabolics and similar ones found in subgroups of Co 1 using the amalgam method.