cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonwovens as Three-Dimensional Textiles for Composites

Abstract Three-dimensional textiles are those materials which have a system or systems in all the three axes of plane. These offer particular properties, such as interlaminar shearing force, and mechanical and thermal stability along all three axes of space, which are not achievable with other reinforcements. The demand for these types of fabrics is expected to increase, especially in the areas of high performance composites in automobile industry, housing, construction and reinforcement materials. Reduction in manufacturing and raw materials costs has to be brought about in order to make the advanced composites competitive in the current market and acceptable in the future new markets. Nonwovens, which are a major constituent of this class of textiles are becoming important because of their ease of manufacture and low production cost. This is a comprehensive review of different methods of manufacturing 3-D textiles with an emphasis on nonwovens.
Analysis of neurotransmitter receptors mediating changes in LH release induced by electrical stimulation of the dorsal raphe nucleus in the rat

We report studies of neurotransmitter and receptor species mediating the inhibition of LH release in ovariectomized (OVX) rats and stimulation in OVX estrogen-primed rats induced by electrical stimulation of the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). Attempts were made to block effects of stimulation of the DRN in groups of four to nine ovariectomized rats with or without priming with estradiol benzoate (EB) by pre-treatment with the 5HT receptor antagonists ke-tanserin, methysergide, or metergoline; the α-adrenergic antagonist phenoxybenzamine; or the opiate antagonist naltrexone. Blood samples were collected via jugular cannulae from the unanesthetized rats at 10-min intervals before and during electrical stimulation of the DRN, and assayed by double antibody radioimmunoassay for LH. To test the effect of stimulation, data from animals in each treatment group were subjected to analysis of variance to obtain the contrast matrix including prestimulation and stimulation time points of interest. The contrast matrix was then used to construct an F ratio and thereby to evaluate the level of significance. In unprimed OVX rats the sustained decrease in plasma LH concentration during stimulation was prevented in rats pretreated with ketanserin or phenoxybenzamine. Methysergide pretreatment delayed the inhibitory effect of DRN electrical stimulation for 30 min, whereas metergoline and naltrexone were ineffective. In EB-primed animals the increase in plasma LH observed during stimulation was prevented in rats pretreated with metergoline, and reversed in those receiving naltrexone. Ketanserin limited the duration of the increase to 10 min, while phenoxybenzamine and methysergide had no significant effect. These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of dorsal raphe stimulation on release of LH in OVX rats may be mediated by 5HT2 and α-adrenergic systems, whereas the stimulatory effects (OVX + EB) may involve primarily 5HT1 and opiate receptors.
Packaging-compatible wafer level capping of MEMS devices

A cost-effective, wafer-level package process for microelectromechanical devices (MEMS) is presented. The movable part of MEMS device is encapsulated and protected while in wafer form so that commodity, lead-frame packaging can be used. A polymer epoxycyclohexyl polyhedral oligomericsilsesquioxanes has been used as a mask material to pattern the sacrificial polymer as well as overcoat the air-cavity. The resulting air-cavities are clean, debris-free, and robust. The cavities have substantial strength to withstand molding pressures during lead-frame packaging of the MEMS devices. A wide range of cavities from 20@mmx400@mm to 300@mmx400@mm have been fabricated and shown to be mechanically stable. These could potentially house MEMS devices over a wide range of sizes. The strength of the cavities has been investigated using nano-indentation and modeled using analytical and finite element techniques. Capacitive resonators packaged using this protocol have shown clean sensing electrodes and good functionality.
Advances in the management of nausea and vomiting induced by non-cisplatin containing chemotherapeutic regimens

Nausea and vomiting are the most feared toxicities of chemotherapy. Afferent impulses from the chemoreceptor trigger zone, peripheral sites, the cerebral cortex, or the vestibular center can initiate the emetic reflex. Antiemetic protection therefore requires interruption of appropriate emetogenic pathways. Since the chemoreceptor trigger zone contains numerous dopaminergic neurons, antidopaminergic agents including phenothiazines and metoclopramide have gained importance as antiemetics. However standard dose phenothiazines have limited efficacy while high dose metoclopramide may have excessive toxicity in the non-cisplatin setting. Recent advances have therefore centered on development of new classes of antiemetics. Corticosteroids have excellent activity alone or in combination with other antiemetic agents. Cannabinoids have recently been introduced into commercial use as antiemetics with particular activity against non-cisplatin chemotherapy. Benzodiazepines are active against anticipatory nausea and vomiting and are also used in combination antiemetic regimens. Although the vestibular center seems to have a lesser influence on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, vestibular blocking agents such as scopolamine may have a potential role as adjunctive antiemetics. Finally, appreciation of the role of serotonin (5-HT3) receptors in both peripheral and central emetic pathways may lead to a new class of antiserotonergic antiemetic agents.
The Convergent and Discriminant Validity of the Stochastic Rewards Model for Human Resource Valuation: A Field Study

A recent paper by Flamholtz and Wollman described the conceptualisation, development, and implementa‐tion of the stochastic rewards model for human resource valuation (SRVM) in a human capital intensive firm. An essential prerequisite before such models can actually be implemented in organisations (and used in personnel management in the ways described by Flamholtz and Wollman) is to assess the empirical validity of the numbers generated as measurements of human resource value. The purpose of the study reported in this paper, therefore, is to investigate the “convergent and discriminant validity” of the SRVM in the context of a human capital intensive firm. Our intent is to contribute to the development of human resource accounting by going beyond the theoretical justification of the previously proposed SRVM and present some empirical evidence on the validity of the numbers generated by the model.
Going Home to Pakistan: Identity and Its Discontents in Southeastern Europe

In this article I explore the claim that post-independence Macedonia is a cornerstone of European civilization (a traditional Greek claim) and analyze efforts to assert the country's position in the international arena as a “modern” and authentically Western state deserving of membership in the European Union. Such efforts involve the establishment of ties between Macedonians and the Hunzukuts, who live on the remote Hindu Kush Mountains in Pakistan and claim to be descendants of Alexander the Great. I also analyze comparable initiatives, sponsored in recent years by the Greek state, to prove ties between Greeks and the Kalasha, who also live in remote areas of Pakistan and believe that they are descended from Alexander the Great. Greece and post-independence Macedonia offer us insights into the populist underpinnings of the nationalist promotion of a European identity presented as rooted in the East.
Using screen video capture software to aide and inform cognitive interviewing

Web-based surveys are a salient tool in the repertoire of social and behavioral scientists. The increase in web-based surveys is understandable considering the distinct advantages offered, including: (a) lower costs and reduced labor time, (b) ability to directly transfer data into statistical packages (reducing coding errors), (c) customization options enabling more attractive presentation, (d) ability to reduce respondent burden by embedding skip patterns, and (e) access to larger sample sizes in different geographic regions. It is important to note, however, that administering web-based surveys also introduces distinct sources of error (e.g., coverage, sampling and non-response). Regardless of format (e.g., paper-and-pencil or web-based), specific, prescribed steps must be followed when constructing an instrument in order to reduce survey error and lend credence to the data collected before subsequent analysis is performed. One of those crucial stages integral to the pretesting process is cognitive interviewing. Cognitive interviewing is a qualitative process, encompassing two main techniques: think aloud interviewing and verbal probing. Collectively, these two methods seek to (a) produce information on what the respondent is thinking while answering the questions, (b) the cognitive processes used to answer the questions, and (c) how the respondent answers the questions. The purpose of this article is to provide a practical guide outlining how Camtasia, a screen video capture software, can aide and inform the cognitive interview process.
Dose-effect and dose-response relationships of blood lead to erythrocytic protoporphyrin in young children.

Abstract Dose-effect and dose-response relationships were analyzed for blood lead concentration (PbB) vs blood protoporphyrin concentration using multiple data points from 165 children, ages 3–36 months. Protoporphyrin concentrations were measured using a front-face flurometer designed to measure zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) and an extraction method designed to measure total protoporphyrin as the free base (FEP). Estimations were made of the threshold for PbB effects on FEP and ZPP, as well as the slopes of the PbB-FEP and PbB-ZPP interactions. There was essentially no difference in thresholds estimated using ZPP vs FEP as the effect parameter. There was no apparent effect of age on threshold. However, the slope for PbB vs ZPP was less steep than the slope for PbB vs FEP. Moreover, the average ratio FEP:ZPP was markedly elevated at 3 months (1.84:1) and decreased slowly, attaining unity at 33 months. The possible reasons for this discrepancy are discussed, as well as the implications for interpretation of lead screening program data.
Properties of calcium phosphate coatings before and after exposure to simulated biological fluid

The surface qualities of calcium phosphate (CaP) implants are important factors determining the nature and degree of cellular behaviour, especially cellular attachment, proliferation and differentiation. Thus, in this study, the chemical composition and crystallographic properties of radiofrequency sputter-deposited CaP coatings prior to and after in vitro immersion in a physiological solution were characterized. Significant differences in crystallite size were observed with different heat treatments, with coatings heat treated at 850 degrees C (CA8) having larger crystallites compared to coatings heat treated at 700 degrees C (CA7). However, no statistical difference in the Ca/P ratio, carbon concentration and surface energy were observed with different heat treatments. After immersion in a physiological solution, the crystallite size was significantly increased. The crystallite size for the CA8 and CA7 coatings remained statistically different after 1-week immersion in solution. An increase in carbon concentration was also observed for both samples after 1-week immersion in solution. However, no significant differences in the Ca/P ratio and surface energy were indicated between the two coatings after 1-week immersion in solution. In addition, no statistical difference in surface energy was observed for both samples initially and after 1 week.
Block and Permeation of the Hypokalemic Periodic Paralysis Gating Pore In Nav1.4 Channels

We reported previously that naturally occurring hypokalemic periodic paralysis (HypoPP) mutations of voltage sensing arginines in domain II of the skeletal muscle sodium channel Nav1.4 produce gating pore currents at hyperpolarized membrane potentials. These small but persistent currents produce a gain-of-function that would contribute to the pathophysiology of HypoPP. Here we investigate biophysical properties of the gating pore with mutations in R2 in more detail. We confirm that Na+ currents through the gating pore can be blocked by Ba2+ and Zn2+ at mM concentrations. Block is voltage-dependent and is substantially increased by strongly negative holding potentials. Voltage-dependent block develops with kinetics consistent with preferential binding of divalent cations to the resting conformation of the voltage sensor. Trivalent cations such as Gd3+, La3+, Yb3+ block Na+ gating pore currents with higher affinity than divalents (hundreds of nM), but with much less voltage dependence. We also probed permeation through the gating pore. Currents through the Nav1.4/R2G gating pore carried by guanidinium (Gu+) are ∼25 fold larger than Na+ currents. Smaller derivatives like ethyl-guanidine also permeate through the gating pore better than sodium. Bulkier guanidine derivatives block both Na+ and Gu+ gating pore conductances at mM concentrations. Interestingly, HypoPP mutant Nav1.4/R2H, which is proton-selective in physiological saline, is also permeable to Gu+ despite its lack of permeability to monovalent alkali metal cations. The high Gu+ permeation through these gating pores is consistent with the expected favorable environment for the guanidinium side chains of the native arginine gating charges. Our studies reveal conformation-dependent divalent cation block of these HypoPP mutant gating pores, as well as block by guanidine derivatives, which may provide potential targets for therapeutically active compounds.
Broadband Liner Optimization for the Source Diagnostic Test Fan

The broadband component of fan noise has grown in relevance with the utilization of increased bypass ratio and advanced fan designs. Thus, while the attenuation of fan tones remains paramount, the ability to simultaneously reduce broadband fan noise levels has become more appealing. This paper describes a broadband acoustic liner optimization study for the scale model Source Diagnostic Test fan. Specifically, in-duct attenuation predictions with a statistical fan source model are used to obtain optimum impedance spectra over a number of flow conditions for three liner locations in the bypass duct. The predicted optimum impedance information is then used with acoustic liner modeling tools to design liners aimed at producing impedance spectra that most closely match the predicted optimum values. Design selection is based on an acceptance criterion that provides the ability to apply increased weighting to specific frequencies and/or operating conditions. Typical tonal liner designs targeting single frequencies at one operating condition are first produced to provide baseline performance information. These are followed by multiple broadband design approaches culminating in a broadband liner targeting the full range of frequencies and operating conditions. The broadband liner is found to satisfy the optimum impedance objectives much better than the tonal liner designs. In addition, the broadband liner is found to provide better attenuation than the tonal designs over the full range of frequencies and operating conditions considered. Thus, the current study successfully establishes a process for the initial design and evaluation of novel broadband liner concepts for complex engine configurations.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery Local Recurrences

background. Even though 5-year cure rates are as high as 99% for Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) of cutaneous carcinomas, theoretically 100% cure rates of unifocal carcinomas should be possible. objective. To determine why cutaneous malignancies recur locally (persist) after MMS. methods. A retrospective study of all cutaneous malignancies treated with MMS during a 4-year period at Washington University School of Medicine was made. All lesions that were locally recurrent after previous MMS were analyzed for any possible cause of the recurrence. results. POf 2,414 cutaneous malignancies treated, 33 (1.4%) were locally recurrent after previous MMS by four different Mohs surgeons and five separate technicians. Technical or interpretation problems that could have accounted for the local recurrence were identified in 77% of the lesions. The mean time to recurrence was 38.5 months, with 20% developing more than 5 years after the initial MMS. conclusion. MMS local recurrences are rare with procedural errors representing a majority of them. Five-year cure rates for basal cell carcinoma may somewhat overestimate the ultimate cure rate.
Determinate growth in the Baenidae (Testudines): taxonomic, ecologic, and stratigraphic significance

ABSTRACT Members of the family Baenidae cease significant growth and co-ossify the shell as adults. Recognition of adults allows size to be effectively used as a means of taxon discrimination in taxonomic, stratigraphie, and ecologie studies. The feature is used to discriminate the Eocene genera Baena and Chisternon and trace their increase in size through time.
Synthetic homeostatic materials with chemo-mechano-chemical self-regulation

Living organisms have unique homeostatic abilities, maintaining tight control of their local environment through interconversions of chemical and mechanical energy and self-regulating feedback loops organized hierarchically across many length scales. In contrast, most synthetic materials are incapable of continuous self-monitoring and self-regulating behaviour owing to their limited single-directional chemomechanical or mechanochemical modes. Applying the concept of homeostasis to the design of autonomous materials would have substantial impacts in areas ranging from medical implants that help stabilize bodily functions to 'smart' materials that regulate energy usage. Here we present a versatile strategy for creating self-regulating, self-powered, homeostatic materials capable of precisely tailored chemo-mechano-chemical feedback loops on the nano- or microscale. We design a bilayer system with hydrogel-supported, catalyst-bearing microstructures, which are separated from a reactant-containing 'nutrient' layer. Reconfiguration of the gel in response to a stimulus induces the reversible actuation of the microstructures into and out of the nutrient layer, and serves as a highly precise 'on/off' switch for chemical reactions. We apply this design to trigger organic, inorganic and biochemical reactions that undergo reversible, repeatable cycles synchronized with the motion of the microstructures and the driving external chemical stimulus. By exploiting a continuous feedback loop between various exothermic catalytic reactions in the nutrient layer and the mechanical action of the temperature-responsive gel, we then create exemplary autonomous, self-sustained homeostatic systems that maintain a user-defined parameter--temperature--in a narrow range. The experimental results are validated using computational modelling that qualitatively captures the essential features of the self-regulating behaviour and provides additional criteria for the optimization of the homeostatic function, subsequently confirmed experimentally. This design is highly customizable owing to the broad choice of chemistries, tunable mechanics and its physical simplicity, and may lead to a variety of applications in autonomous systems with chemo-mechano-chemical transduction at their core.
Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol regulates Th1/Th2 cytokine balance in activated human T cells

Human leukocytes express cannabinoid (CB) receptors, suggesting a role for both endogenous ligands and Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) as immune modulators. To evaluate this, human T cells were stimulated with allogeneic dendritic cells (DC) in the presence or absence of THC (0.625-5 microg/ml). THC suppressed T cell proliferation, inhibited the production of interferon-gamma and shifted the balance of T helper 1 (Th1)/T helper 2 (Th2) cytokines. Intracellular cytokine staining demonstrated that THC reduced both the percentage and mean fluorescence intensity of activated T cells capable of producing interferon-gamma, with variable effects on the number of T cells capable of producing interleukin-4. Exposure to THC also decreased steady-state levels of mRNA encoding for Th1 cytokines, while increasing mRNA levels for Th2 cytokines. The CB2 receptor antagonist, SR144528, abrogated the majority of these effects. We conclude that cannabinoids have the potential to regulate the activation and balance of human Th1/Th2 cells by a CB2 receptor-dependent pathway.
Towards universal topological quantum computation in the ν = 5 2 fractional quantum Hall state

The Pfaffian state, which may describe the quantized Hall plateau observed at Landau level filling fraction $\ensuremath{\nu}=\frac{5}{2}$, can support topologically-protected qubits with extremely low error rates. Braiding operations also allow perfect implementation of certain unitary transformations of these qubits. However, in the case of the Pfaffian state, this set of unitary operations is not quite sufficient for universal quantum computation (i.e. is not dense in the unitary group). If some topologically unprotected operations are also used, then the Pfaffian state supports universal quantum computation, albeit with some operations which require error correction. On the other hand, if certain topology-changing operations can be implemented, then fully topologically-protected universal quantum computation is possible. In order to accomplish this, it is necessary to measure the interference between quasiparticle trajectories which encircle other moving trajectories in a time-dependent Hall droplet geometry [cond-mat/0512072].
HSIA-KE HSU–PIONEER OF MODERN GEOGRAPHY IN CHINA1

(1958). HSIA-KE HSU–PIONEER OF MODERN GEOGRAPHY IN CHINA. Annals of the Association of American Geographers: Vol. 48, No. 1, pp. 73-82.
Subtraction ictal SPET co-registered to MRI in partial epilepsy: description and technical validation of the method with phantom and patient studies.

SummaryComputer-aided subtraction of the co-registered and normalized interictal from the ictal single photon emission tomography (SPET) scan, followed by co-registration to the magnetic resonance image, may improve the utility of ictal SPET in the localization of partial epilepsy. This paper descri
Prevalence of murine C-type RNA virus group specific antigen in inbred strains of mice

Abstract The group-specific antigen of murine C-type virus(es) was detected in 80 per cent of “high-leukemia” strains of mice, 41 per cent in “intermediate” -leukemia strains and 23 per cent in “low”-leukemia strains. The prevalence of antigen increased with age in most strains, and genetically related strains had a similar incidence. Thus, the pattern of “virus-expression” is at least in part genetically determined, but can be modified by endogenous-physiological (age) and exogenous-environmental factors.
Reconstructions of mountain glacier profiles, northeastern United States

Ice surface profiles are reconstructed for 37 proposed mountain glacier localities in the northeastern United States, including sites in the Catskill and Adirondack Mountains, New York; the Green Mountains, Vermont; the White Mountains, New Hampshire; and the Longfellow Mountains and Mount Katahdin, Maine. The reconstructions, determined numerically from the shear-stress equation ϒ = ρgh sin α, show estimated ice thickness as a function of valley position and slope. In general, ice thickness increases from zero at the position of the glacier terminus (terminal position is a required input to the model) to some equilibrium "slab" thickness in the upper valley, where the slab thickness is inversely proportional to valley slope. Glacier reconstructions support the empirical evidence for former local glaciation in the Catskill and White Mountains and in some localities in the Adirondack Mountains. In several proposed glacier locations in the Adirondack and Green Mountains (in very shallow basins and in very gently sloping valleys), however, estimated ice thicknesses exceed the depth of their respective valleys or the elevation of up-valley cols, suggesting a re-evaluation of these localities as sites of local confined ice flow. Confirmed localities of local glaciation are mostly in valleys with mean gradients greater than about 5° where reconstructed ice thicknesses are less than about 200 m.
Low-Loss PE:LiNbO3 Waveguide Bends at l = 1.55 um

Waveguide bends are essential elements in the design of integrated optical devices. Various bend configurations have been studied mostly for titanium-indiffused lithium niobate waveguides [1] – [4] . Among them, S-shaped bends as shown in figure (la) have been widely used in integrated optical devices. The main goal of waveguide bend studies has been to achieve the minimum transition length that can be tolerated for acceptably low bend loss. Losses as low as 0.2 dB have been reported [4] in titanium-indiffused waveguides for a transition between offset parallel waveguides with a 0.1 mm lateral and 3.25 mm longitudinal separation. Here we report on very-low-loss PE:LiNbO3 waveguide bend structures at λ = 1.55 um.
Investigation of Numerical Solution Approaches to Multicomponent Batch Distillation in Packed Beds

Finite difference and orthogonal collocation techniques are used to obtain numerical solution of the differential contactor model that represents a packed column. In the orthogonal collocation approach, polynomial approximation to the model equations results in a sparse system of equations that is much smaller in dimension than with the other methods. Exploiting this sparsity and choosing the proper order for approximating polynomial are the critical issues. Higher CPU time associated with higher order of the polynomial necessitates use of finite elements in the collocation techniques. We study the accuracy and efficiency issues underlying all these approaches with the help of hydrocarbon mixture and ethanol esterification examples. The later case study is considered with both with and without the presence of reaction.
Prerequisite algebra skills and associated misconceptions of middle grade students: A review

Abstract This article provides a comprehensive literature review related to prerequisite algebra skills and associated misconceptions of middle grades students as a means to draw together ideas for research and practice. Four algebra-related content domains (Ratios and Proportional Relationships, The Number System, Expressions and Equations, and Functions) from the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM) were used as an organizing framework to examine findings that are linked to the need for greater student conceptual understanding as a priority in reaching algebra proficiency. By providing insights into prerequisite algebra skills and associated misconceptions of middle grade students, this manuscript has direct implications for classroom instruction and teacher education. This review of literature can serve as a comprehensive guide to a variety of stakeholders involved in the implementation of the middle grades algebraic content of the CCSSM ( CCSSO, 2010a ).
High-frequency transducers for ultrasonic backscatter microscopy

Very high frequency (VHF) ultrasound (> 20 MHz) has recently gained much attention as an effective non-invasive means to diagnose ocular and dermatological lesions. These ultrasonic backscatter microscopy systems have advanced rapidly with the electronics industry; however the VHF transducers are often the limiting factor in the overall image quality. This overview examines a number of the issues facing the high frequency transducer designer, including active material selection, passive components, acoustic and electrical matching and accurate characterization. Modified lead titanate was used as an active material to examine the use of a transmission line transformer to improve the electrical match between 25 and 40 MHz transducers and 50 (Omega) electronics. At 40 MHz, the transformer was shown to improve response only modestly, increasing bandwidth a few percent and insertion loss a few dB. At 25 MHz, -6 dB bandwidth improved almost 60%; however, peak sensitivity increased only 1 dB. PZT fiber composites were investigated to determine the effect of various volume fractions and passive backings on high frequency response. Parylene C was shown to be an effective matching layer for these composites, improving bandwidth of the 30% volume fraction transducers by 20% and sensitivity by 5 dB. Finally, a test setup, taking advantage of state of the art in linear positioners, is presented, addressing the issues pertinent to high frequency transducer characterization.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The Arabidopsis MALE MEIOCYTE DEATH1 gene encodes a PHD-finger protein that is required for male meiosis.

In plants, reproductive development requires normal meiosis, which involved several highly coordinated events. Such meiotic events are regulated in a number of ways in yeast and animal systems, including transcriptional and checkpoint control mechanisms. Although a number of mutations that affect different aspects of meiosis have been characterized in plants, very little is known about the regulation of plant meiosis at the molecular level. In particular, no meiosis-specific transcriptional regulators have been identified in plants, and checkpoint control has not been observed during plant meiosis. We report here the isolation and characterization of a new Arabidopsis male-sterile mutant that exhibits meiotic defects. Meiocytes from mutant plants appeared normal up to diakinesis, when they exhibited signs of apoptosis, including defects in chromosome behavior, cytoplasmic shrinkage, and chromatin fragmentation, followed by cell death before cytokinesis. Therefore, the mutant was named male meiocyte death1 (mmd1). The MMD1 gene was cloned using Dissociation transposon tagging and encodes a plant homeo domain domain–containing protein. MMD1 is expressed preferentially during male meiosis. Our results suggest that MMD1 may be involved in the regulation of gene expression during meiosis and that the mmd1 mutation triggers cell death in male meiocytes.
Actionable saliency detection: Independent motion detection without independent motion estimation

We present a model and an algorithm to detect salient regions in video taken from a moving camera. In particular, we are interested in capturing small objects that move independently in the scene, such as vehicles and people as seen from aerial or ground vehicles. Many of the scenarios of interest challenge existing schemes based on background subtraction (background motion too complex), multi-body motion estimation (insufficient parallax), and occlusion detection (uniformly textured background regions). We adopt a robust statistical inference approach to simultaneously estimate a maximally reduced regressor, and select regions that violate the null hypothesis (co-visibility under an epipolar domain deformation) as “salient”. We show that our algorithm can perform even in the absence of camera calibration information: while the resulting motion estimates would be incorrect, the partition of the domain into salient vs. non-salient is unaffected. We demonstrate our algorithm on video footage from helicopters, airplanes, and ground vehicles.
Concurrent thermal designs of PCBs: balancing accuracy with time constraints

A thermal design methodology suitable for concurrent design of cost-driven electronic systems is proposed and exemplified for a sample printed circuit board (PCB). The design methodology utilizes an evolutionary concept, in which the analysis tools are capable of adjusting their level of complexity as the design evolves, initiating with rough approximate analyses and culminating in a conjugate conduction/convection simulation for a portion of the sample board. The level of approximation included at each stage of the design is selected with consideration of both time and accuracy constraints. Furthermore, the importance of considering the conjugate problem in generating heat transfer correlations for electronic packages is discussed. >
High current ion sources and injectors for induction linacs in heavy ion fusion

Heavy ion beam driven inertial fusion requires short ion beam pulses with high current and high brightness. Depending on the beam current and the number of beams in the driver system, the injector can use a large diameter surface ionization source or merge an array of small beamlets from a plasma source. In this paper, we review the scaling laws that govern the injector design and the various ion source options including the contact ionizer, the aluminosilicate source, the multicusp plasma source, and the metal vapor vacuum arc (MEVVA) source.
The surficial geology of the Delta 7.5-minute series quadrangle, Fulton County, Ohio, USA

ABSTRACTThe surficial geology of the Delta 7.5-minute series quadrangle, and sections of the adjacent quadrangles (ca. 54.5 km2), was mapped to elucidate the deglacial history of the Huron–Erie Lake Plain in northwest Ohio. Five depositional environments were identified: alluvial, aeolian, glacial, glaciolacustrine and glaciofluvial. The depositional environments were mapped on a hillshaded, light detecting and ranging digital elevation model using a sediment-landform approach. Map interpretations were field tested with borings, shallow pits, electrical resistivity and ground-penetrating radar surveys. Four prominent strandlines of Ancestral Lake Erie trend NNE to SSW across the study area at 238, 231, 224 and 221 m above sea level and are comprised of offshore bars, possible beaches and spits recording littoral drift from the NNE. This study emphasizes the importance of large-scale mapping and provides a framework for subsequent research in the region.
Enhanced Web-Based Otitis Study Case vs Simple Paper-Case: Impact on Medical Student Objec-tive Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) Performance

Background: Distance education methods have taken on greater importance as medi-cal student education has moved off campus into the community. What the best methods are for conveying information to students at distant sites has not been determined. Objective: To determine if students at distant community sites who received an otitis media study case by e-mail that was enhanced with a referral to a web-based otitis study case, performed bet-ter on otitis OSCE stations than students who received the same case not enhanced with visuals or referrals to a web-based otitis case. Design/Methods: Students were randomized by community site to receive either the enhanced (E) or simple otitis study case (S). Students were e-mailed an otitis media study case during the 5th week of the rotation. Those randomized to the E-case received a case that started with a case scenario followed by a "Task" that instructed them to go to this web address: http://www.aap.org/otitismedia/www/vc/ear/index.cfm (American Academy of Pediatrics Otitis Web Site). They were then to select "Case 1" which was a continuation of the case scenario pre-sent on their e-mail. A list of learning objectives was also printed on the e-mail. Students receiv-ing the S-case viewed the same case scenario and objectives, but were not instructed to go to the web-page. All students rotated through two OSCE otitis stations. In the first station they inter-viewed a simulated patient(OSCE-SP) and counseled her on the management of her 12 month old with otitis. Within that station they viewed a video of a pneumoscopic exam of two ears, one ear with otitis and the other ear normal. At the 2nd otitis station the student presented the case to a faculty and was asked a series of questions about otitis media(OSCE-PR). Scores on the two sta-tions were compared by group. Results: There were 198 students who took the OSCE. 178 (90%) responded to a survey that in-dicated they had opened and read the e-mailed case. There were 87 students in the E-group and 91 in the S-group. The mean ?s.d. OSCE-SP station score for the E-group was 72.6 ?12.0 vs 75.4 ?9.8 for the S-group, p=0.09. For the otitis presentation station the scores for the E-group and S-group were respectively, 82.9 ?9.6 and 83.7 ?9.4, p=0.55. Conclusions: These data suggest that enhanced visual distance education cases may offer no dis-tinct advantage over simple paper-type case study guides. Keywords: Distance education, medical education, web-based education.
Predicting Recessions: A New Approach for Identifying Leading Indicators and Forecast Combinations

This study proposes a data-based algorithm to select a subset of indicators from a large data set with a focus on forecasting recessions. The algorithm selects leading indicators of recessions based on the forecast encompassing principle and combines the forecasts. An application to U.S. data shows that forecasts obtained from the algorithm are consistently among the best in a large comparative forecasting exercise at various forecasting horizons. In addition, the selected indicators are reasonable and consistent with the standard leading indicators followed by many observers of business cycles. The suggested algorithm has several advantages, including wide applicability and objective variable selection.
The Rb network.

A key component of the machinery that regulates cell cycle entry and progression in mammalian cells is the retinoblastoma protein (Rb), which functions as a barrier to inappropriate cell cycle progression. The cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) pathway controlling Rb is deregulated in most human tumors
Degradation of silicon bipolar junction transistors at high forward current densities

The physical degradation mechanisms of silicon bipolar function transistors at high forward current densities were delineated quantitatively using three n/p/p and one p/n/p state-of-the-art submicron polysilicon-emitter transistor technologies. The increase of the operating current gain and decrease of emitter series resistance from million-ampere per square centimeter stress current are related to hydrogenation of the electronic traps at the metal-silicide/polycrystalline-Si and polycrystalline-Si/crystalline-Si emitter contact interfaces. A demonstration of the 10-year operation Time-to-Failure extrapolation methodology is also presented.
Should users be entitled to run the applications of their choice on wireless networks

We examine whether wireless ISPs should be able to legally limit the applications used on wireless devices. The analysis is based on wireless network architecture and communications law. We review how wired and wireless networks differ in traffic management, and conclude that wireless networks require stronger traffic management than wired networks at and below the network layer. We review communications law, and conclude that ISPs should be prohibited from giving themselves an unfair competitive edge. We examine three scenarios of how applications may be restricted, and find that none guarantees a level playing field between ISPs and application providers while allowing ISPs to reasonably manage network resources. We propose regulations that limit an ISP's ability to restrict applications by requiring an open interface between network and transport layers. We illustrate how ISPs may deploy QoS within such a regulatory framework, and how this proposed policy can achieve the goals.
A Cyclic Diaminocarbene with a Pyramidalized Nitrogen Atom: A Stable N‐Heterocyclic Carbene with Enhanced Electrophilicity

Since their discovery,[1,2] thousands of papers have dealt with the preparation and use of stable carbenes. Arguably, among them,[3–6] the N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) A have been the most studied.[7–12] Despite their widespread applications, NHCs still suffer from low modularity, which confines them to a narrow range of strong σ-donor ligands and nucleophiles. In recent years, several strategies have successfully been developed for tuning their σ-donor properties, which are mainly linked to the σ-effect of the carbene substituents.[8] However, the modulation of the π-acceptor properties of NHCs is more challenging since the high-energy LUMO is ruled by the strong π-donation of the two amino groups to the carbene vacant orbital.[13] As shown in Figure 1, the replacement of a π-electron donating and σ-withdrawing amino substituent by a σ-donating alkyl group (B) leads to an increase of electrophilicity but also nucleophilicity.[14,15] Carbonyls can be introduced in the backbone in order to compete with the carbene center for the nitrogen π-donation. The so-called diamidocarbenes C are very electrophilic, but at the expense of their nucleophilicity.[16–19] Here we report the synthesis and single crystal X-ray diffraction study of a cyclic diaminocarbene, which retains the nucleophilicity of classical NHCs, but displays enhanced electrophilicity.
Transition State Structure of RNA Depurination by Saporin L3.

Saporin L3 from the leaves of the common soapwort is a catalyst for hydrolytic depurination of adenine from RNA. Saporin L3 is a type 1 ribosome inactivating protein (RIP) composed only of a catalytic domain. Other RIPs have been used in immunotoxin cancer therapy, but off-target effects have limited their development. In the current study, we use transition state theory to understand the chemical mechanism and transition state structure of saporin L3. In favorable cases, transition state structures guide the design of transition state analogues as inhibitors. Kinetic isotope effects (KIEs) were determined for an A14C mutant of saporin L3. To permit KIE measurements, small stem–loop RNAs that contain an AGGG tetraloop structure were enzymatically synthesized with the single adenylate bearing specific isotopic substitutions. KIEs were measured and corrected for forward commitment to obtain intrinsic values. A model of the transition state structure for depurination of stem–loop RNA (5′-GGGAGGGCCC-3′) by sa...
Coordinate modulation of glucocorticoid receptor and glutaminase gene expression in LLC-PK1-F+ cells

The effect of glucocorticoid receptor on glutaminase gene expression and related glutamine metabolism was studied in proximal tubule-like LCC-PK1-F+ cells. These cells express functional glucocorticoid receptors as demonstrated by immunoreactivity with antiglucocorticoid receptor antibody, specific ligand binding, and a 14-fold increase in chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) reporter gene activity after exposure to dexamethasone (10(-6)M). Dexamethasone exposure for 18 h increased glutaminase mRNA and activity by 32 and 42%, respectively (both P< 0.05, paired t-test), associated with a small (9%) but significant increase in glutamine utilization (P<0.05). In an effort to elicit a greater response, endogenous glucocorticoid receptors were supplemented by transfecting cells with a plasmid, pMAMGR, expressing the rat glucocorticoid receptor gene. Transfected cells expressed a 39-fold increase in CAT activity with dexamethasone treatment, confirming a higher level of functional receptors, but glutaminase mRNA and activity were now decreased by 34 and 32%, respectively, associated with a 15% fall in glutamine utilization after 18-h exposure to dexamethasone. This biphasic response in glutaminase gene expression was mirrored by glucocorticoid receptor mRNA that increased 41% after dexamethasone in LLC-PK(1)-F+ cells, but decreased 63% after transfection (both P<0.05). These findings are consonant with glucocorticoid receptor gene modulation of glutaminase gene expression and glutamine utilization.
Analysis on the gap between self-report condom use in the elderly and sex workers in poorly conditioned sexing sites in Liuzhou

Objective To understand HIV prevention knowledge,awareness and condom use among middle-senior in the low price sexing in Liuzhou. Methods This study applied mixed method to conduct qualitative and quantitative study in low price sexing sites in Liuzhou,Guangxi Province. 200 people aged over 50 years and 42 sex workers were recruited. Results HIV prevention knowledge and awareness were very weak in this group. Meanwhile,only 32. 12% of the elderly reported they had used condom in the last commercial sex,while 83. 33% of sex workers reported they used condom during the last commercial sex. Only 12. 42% middle-senior aged persons stated that more than 70% sex workers had persuaded them to use condom. More than 51. 72% sex workers reported that they persuaded more than 70% of whoremasters to use condom. Conclusions Sex workers and middle-senior aged whoremasters give different self report on condom use.Sex workers should be encouraged and well trained to persuade middle-senior aged whoremasters to use condom.
Excimers in Molecular Crystals: The Relaxation of a Nonlinear Oscillator

Excimer physics is intimately related to nonlinear physics in general. We describe below a simple classical model which two of the present authors developed several years ago. When extended, as we have done recently, the model has the capability of treating both the normal excimer state, and the so-called Y-state of α-perylene.
Epidemiology and Outcomes of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Non melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), which consist of basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. SCC accounts for only 20 % of all NMSCs however, it causes the majority of metastases and deaths from NMSC. Due to its commonness and overall excellent prognosis, SCC is excluded from national cancer registries in the United States. Hence; population-based incidence and outcome studies are lacking. In this chapter, current epidemiologic data on SCC incidence, risk factors for SCC formation (such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation, ionizing radiation, and infection with human papillomavirus) and overall prognosis of SCC will be discussed.
Joyce’s Irish Jew: Bloom

That Bloom may be the solution to Stephen’s problem is suggested by the opening of “Calypso” with its emphasis upon the nominalistic world of experience: “Mr Leopold Bloom ate with relish the inner organs of beasts and fowls. He liked thick giblet soup, nutty gizzards, a stuffed roast heart, liverslices fried with crustcrumbs, fried hencods’ roes. Most of all he liked grilled mutton kidneys which gave to his palate a fine tang of faintly scented urine” (U.55; IV. 1–5). That we are in a radically different world is indicated by the syntax with its straightforward, vibrant progression from subject to predicate to object. As we read the passage aloud, hesitating at the consonant cluster and dwelling on the open vowels, we realize that the active voice and phonics stress Bloom’s delight in his breakfast and savoring of his food. The emphasis on the “s” sound calls attention to the very different use of the “s” sound with which “Proteus” had been brought to a silent, mysterious close. Indeed, for the most part, Bloom takes pleasure in the simple routines of his morning, for the reason mat they are enriched with genuine concern for his family and acquaintances. Joyce differentiates between, on the one hand, Bloom’s enjoyment of experience and his pleasure in himself and, on the other, Stephen’s egotistical and self-flagellating pride.
Seri Blue—An Explanation

ABSTRACTThe essential ingredients in making Seri Blue are: (1) an inorganic naturally-occurring mineral substance consisting largely of a random mixed layer clay; (2) resin from Guaiacum coulteri; and (3) water. Experimentation demonstrates that this resin will react with several clay varieties to produce varying shades of blue. It is interesting to note that attapulgite, the clay base in the mysterious blue pigment, Maya Blue, also reacts. This fact, coupled with the reported distribution of Guaiacum species from Sonora to Yucatan, suggests possible new approaches for those seeking to shed additional light on the problem of blue pigments.