cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A fully integrated high power RF MEMS switch in package

We report a high power laminate switch for radio frequency (RF) applications. This switch can be embedded within RF circuits or serve as a standalone component. For various RF applications, we demonstrated how switch, RF and mechanical performances are correlated to each other by varying the design parameters. Low contact resistance, 0.3 Ω and decent RF performance, −0.35 dB insertion loss and −18 dB isolation at 9 GHz were achieved.
Rational Behavior Therapy

Rational behavior therapy (RBT) is a comprehensive, culture-free, shortterm, cognitive-behavior therapy. It is comprehensive because it deals directly with all three groups of learned behaviors: the cognitive, the emotive, and the physical. An ever increasing body of research indicates that RBT is helpful to people regardless of race, cultural values, or lifestyle (Brandsma, Maultsby, & Welsh, 1979; Maultsby, 1975a; Maultsby, Costello, & Carpenter, 1976; Maultsby & Graham, 1974; Maultsby, Winkler, & Norton, 1975; Patton, 1976; Ross, 1978; Ruhnow, 1977; Schwager, 1975). In Chapter 3, I attempted to show why culture-free psychotherapy is essential for efficient, effective psychotherapy for black Americans.
From Genes to Genomes: A New Paradigm for Studying Fungal Pathogenesis in Magnaporthe oryzae

Abstract Magnaporthe oryzae is the most destructive fungal pathogen of rice worldwide and because of its amenability to classical and molecular genetic manipulation, availability of a genome sequence, and other resources it has emerged as a leading model system to study host–pathogen interactions. This chapter reviews recent progress toward elucidation of the molecular basis of infection‐related morphogenesis, host penetration, invasive growth, and host–pathogen interactions. Related information on genome analysis and genomic studies of plant infection processes is summarized under specific topics where appropriate. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of MAP kinase and cAMP signal transduction pathways and unique features in the genome such as repetitive sequences and expanded gene families. Emerging developments in functional genome analysis through large‐scale insertional mutagenesis and gene expression profiling are detailed. The chapter concludes with new prospects in the area of systems biology, such as protein expression profiling, and highlighting remaining crucial information needed to fully appreciate host–pathogen interactions.
Abstract 3070: Capture, isolation, and mutational analysis of single pancreatic circulating tumor cells using NanoVelcro technology

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Introduction: Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been developed as a biomarker in several cancers, but not in pancreatic cancer (PDAC). The available clinical technology for CTC study, CellSearch, suffers from limited ability to perform molecular analysis. We sought to evaluate a novel microfluidic NanoVelcro technology coupled to laser micro-dissection (LMD), for CTC capture and single cell analysis of KRAS mutations to confirm tumor origin of captured CTCs. Methods: NanoVelcro utilizes a nano-spun polymer fiber, modified with streptavidin, to capture CTCs using biotinylated antibodies. The system was optimized with the CFPAC-1 (EpCAM+, KRAS G12 to V) cell line spiked into healthy donor blood. Patient samples were collected from 2 mL peripheral venous blood and run at the optimized flow rate of 1mL/hr. CTCs were defined by size (≥ 10 µm) and immuno-staining pattern (DAPI+/CK+/CD45-). Using LMD, single cells were isolated and subjected to whole genome amplification followed by PCR of KRAS exon 1 and subsequent Sanger Sequencing. Results: The NanoVelcro system allowed for detection of mutant KRAS in isolated CFPAC-1 cells. 6 CTCs were then isolated from a known KRAS G12 to V mutant patient and 3/6 (50.0%) captured CTCs were found to have KRAS G12 to V mutations while normal WBCs from the same patient contained wild-type KRAS. Conclusions: The microfluidic NanoVelcro technology demonstrated capture of pancreatic CTCs and may prove useful in the development of CTCs as a biomarker in PDAC. Application of LMD enabled single cell KRAS mutational analysis confirming cancer origin of isolated CTCs and supporting our current PDAC CTC identification criteria based on immuno-staining. This promising technology, combined with LMD, opens the door for molecular characterization of CTCs, thus providing insight into the biology of metastasis while potentially revealing molecular targets for therapeutics. Citation Format: Jacob S. Ankeny, Shuang Hou, Millicent Lin, Matthew Frias, Hank OuYang, Min Song, Matthew M. Rochefort, Mark D. Girgis, Hsian-Rong Tseng, James S. Tomlinson. Capture, isolation, and mutational analysis of single pancreatic circulating tumor cells using NanoVelcro technology. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 3070. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-3070
Evaluation of intraspecies genetic variation within the 16S rRNA gene of Mycoplasma hominis and detection by polymerase chain reaction.

Mycoplasma hominis is a heterogeneous species with DNA-DNA hybridization values ranging from 51 to 100%. We report here the sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene of a strain (183) that greatly differs from the type strain (PG21) of this species. Comparison of 16S rDNA sequences from these two strains showed limited differences, indicating that the two strains belong to the same rRNA species complex. Using these nucleotide sequence data, we established a rapid method for the detection of M. hominis by using polymerase chain reaction. This method was shown to be sensitive and specific when tested with reference strains and clinical isolates. Images
The Constituent Power in a National and in a Transnational Context

This paper attempts to make sense of Abbe Sieyes’ classical conception of the nation as the constituent power underlying a constitutional system. It then goes on to explore whether it is possible to conceive of such a power under trans- or post-national conditions. What, if anything, might be the power constituting transnational sites of authority, which are by definition not linked to a particular people? The answer to this question requires a modified understanding of collective self-determination. It will be seen, however, that ‘constituting’ does not amount to the same thing in a national and in a transnational context.
Character Sheaves and Generalizations

Let k be an algebraic closure of a finite field F q. Let G = GL n(k). The group G(F q) = GL n(F q) can be regarded as the fixed point set of the Frobenius map F: G → G,\( (g_{ij} ) \mapsto (g_{ij}^q ) \). Let \( \mathop {\mathbf{Q}}\limits^{\_\_} _l \) be an algebraic closure of the field of l-adic numbers, where l is a prime number invertible in k. The characters of irreducible representations of G(F q) over an algebraically closed field of characteristic 0, which we take to be \( \mathop {\mathbf{Q}}\limits^{\_\_} _l \), have been determined explicitly by J. A. Green [G]. The theory of character sheaves [L2] tries to produce some geometric objects over G from which the irreducible characters of G(F q) can be deduced for any q. This allows us to unify the representation theories of G(F q) for various q. The geometric objects needed in the theory are provided by intersection cohomology.
Causal Bayesian NetworkX

Probabilistic graphical models are useful tools for modeling systems governed by probabilistic structure. Bayesian networks are one class of prob- abilistic graphical model that have proven useful for characterizing both formal systems and for reasoning with those systems. Probabilistic dependencies in Bayesian networks are graphically expressed in terms of directed links from parents to their children. Casual Bayesian networks are a generalization of Bayesian networks that allow one to "intervene" and perform "graph surgery" — cutting nodes off from their parents. Causal theories are a formal framework for generating causal Bayesian networks. This report provides a brief introduction to the formal tools needed to compre- hend Bayesian networks, including probability theory and graph theory. Then, it describes Bayesian networks and causal Bayesian networks. It introduces some of the most basic functionality of the extensive NetworkX python package for working with complex graphs and networks (HSS08). I introduce some utilities I have build on top of NetworkX including conditional graph enumeration and sampling from discrete valued Bayesian networks encoded in NetworkX graphs (Pac15). I call this Causal Bayesian NetworkX, or CBNX. I conclude by introducing a formal framework for generating causal Bayesian networks called theory based causal induction (GT09), out of which these utilities emerged. I discuss the background motivations for frameworks of this sort, their use in computational cognitive science, and the use of computational cognitive science for the machine learning community at large.
Maternal Bed Rest and Infant Health

Negative shocks to early child health influence both short- and long-run outcomes. Interventions prior to birth, rather than early in childhood, may reduce the probability or the severity of the shock and may be relatively cost effective. One such intervention, bed rest during pregnancy, is frequently prescribed to reduce the likelihood of preterm birth. Premature infants experience worse average initial infant health than full-term infants and these differences may persist into adulthood without mediation. Recent medical literature on the efficacy of bed rest is mixed, but tilts towards a negative or zero relationship between bed rest and infant health, suggesting that this intervention does not improve initial health status. This is not surprising given the difficulty of navigating a crucial threat to identification: conditions leading to bed rest recommendations are correlated with infant health. We investigate this question using Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) data. Among women wh...
Coarticulation effects of post-consonantal vowels on the short-term recall of pre-consonantal vowels.

The purpose of this study was to see whether, in a vowel-consonant-vowel (VCV) nonsense word, the pre-consonantal acoustic effects of the post-consonantal vowel could influence the short-term recall of the pre-consonantal vowel. Recordings were made by a male speaker of VC and VCV utterances in which the six lax vowels of American English were the initial vowels, /t/ was the consonant, and /I/ and /α/ were the final vowels. By editing out the final vowels of some of the utterances, five conditions were produced: (1) control-Vt; (2) final /I/ deleted—Vt/I, (3) final /α/ deleted—Vt/α, (4) final /I/ retained—VtI; and (5) final /α/ retained—Vtα. These utterances were presented to listeners in lists of six for short-term recall of the initial vowels. Frequency of errors and distribution of errors based on feature analysis of the vowels were calculated. Statistical analysis showed that coarticulation effects did influence per cent recall scores but not error distribution. It was concluded that coarticulation ef...
Pyrrolidine, 2‐[diphenyl[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]methyl]‐, (2S)‐

[848821-58-9] C20H27NOSi (MW 325.42) InChI = 1S/C20H27NOSi/c1-23(2,3)22-20(19-15-10-16-21-19,17-11-6-4-7-12-17)18-13-8-5-9-14-18/h4-9,11-14,19,21H,10,15-16H2,1-3H3/t19-/m0/s1 InChIKey = RSUHWMSTWSSNOW-IBGZPJMESA-N Pyrrolidine, 2-[diphenyl[(trimethylsilyl)oxy]methyl]-, (2R)- [943757-71-9] InChI = 1S/C20H27NOSi/c1-23(2,3)22-20(19-15-10-16-21-19,17-11-6-4-7-12-17)18-13-8-5-9-14-18/h4-9,11-14,19,21H,10,15-16H2,1-3H3/t19-/m1/s1 InChIKey = RSUHWMSTWSSNOW-LJQANCHMSA-N (useful organocatalyst for asymmetric enamine and iminium chemistry) Physical Data: mp: n/a, bp: n/a, d: 1.0459 g mL−1. Solubility: most organic solvents. Form Supplied in: solid, commercially available. Analysis of Reagent Purity: (titration, IR, NMR, etc.) Preparative Methods: 4–5 steps from L-Proline.2, 6a Purification: n/a. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: reacts with CO2 to form a crystalline carbamate. Bench stable for months.
Mafic: gneissic complex (batholithic root?) in the southernmost Sierra Nevada, California

A mafic complex of hornblende-rich, gneissic to granoblastic, amphibolite- to granulite-grade metamorphic rocks and associated mafic to felsic magmatic rocks is exposed over an area of some 300 km2 in the southernmost Sierra Nevada. The mafic complex probably reflects a deeper exposed crustal level than is represented by the dominantly granitic terrane of the Sierra Nevada batholith to the north, and it may be the upper part of the root zone and metamorphic substrate of the Sierra Nevada batholith. Xenoliths of gneiss, amphibolite, and granulite from subbatholithic levels, transported upward and preserved in volcanic rocks in the central Sierra Nevada, are possible analogues of some of the rocks of the southernmost Sierra Nevada mafic complex.
Accuracy of kinematic wave and diffusion wave approximations for space‐independent flows with lateral inflow neglected in the momentum equation

Error equations for the kinematic wave and diffusion wave approximations with lateral inflow neglected in the momentum equation are derived under simplified conditions for space-independent flows. These equations specify error as a function of time in the flow hydrograph. The kinematic wave, diffusion wave and dynamic wave solutions are parameterized through a dimensionless parameter γ which is dependent on the initial conditions. This parameter reflects the effect of initial flow depth, channel-bed slope, lateral inflow and channel roughness when the initial condition is non-vanishing; and it reflects the effect of bed slope, channel roughness and acceleration due to gravity when the initial condition is vanishing. The error equations are found to be the Riccati equation. The structure of the error equations in the case when the momentum equation neglects lateral inflow is different from that when the lateral inflow is included.
Defect levels in electrodeposited n‐type CdTe thin films

Admittance spectroscopy is used to measure electron traps near the conduction band of the n‐type electrodeposited CdTe thin films. Several samples of Ni‐CdTe Schottky‐barrier and Ni‐TeO2‐CdTe devices are used in the measurement. Two donor levels with activation energies around 0.12 eV and between 0.19 and 0.26 eV are detected. In addition, there may be one or more shallow donor levels within 0.04 eV from the conduction band. Capacitance loops are observed in the capacitance‐voltage measurements performed at different temperatures and bias sweep rates. The activation energies, densities, and electron‐capture cross sections of the two slow electron‐trap levels responding to the cyclical ramp bias are estimated. The rise and decay photocapacitance transient measurements at 295 K reveal two electron‐trap levels with photoionization threshold energies of 0.8 and 1.3 eV. These two levels are suspected to correspond to the other two slow electron‐trap levels estimated in the capacitance‐voltage measurement and l...
GYNECOMASTIA AND HYPERTHYROIDISM

In a recent communication to this Journal, Bauer and Goodwin (1) reported 3 cases of gynecomastia appearing in patients treated with radioactive iodine for Graves’ disease. This symptom was considered as a complication of such therapy. We wish to call attention to tender breast enlargement as one manifestation of the symptomatology of Graves’ disease itself and to present 4 such cases in males observed in the past one and a half years among a total of 45 cases of hyperthyroidism examined during this period. In 2 of the cases, the appearance of breast symptoms antedated therapy of any kind. In 1 case, gynecomastia was first noted shortly after institution of therapy with Tapazole (1 methyl 2 mercaptoimidazole) but before significant clinical response was evident. In the fourth case, tender breast swelling was first noted later in the course of therapy, at a time when the patient had improved considerably. In all cases, remission of breast symptoms coincided with the return of function to the euthyroid state.
A bidentate ligand with appended hydrogen bond donors:: synthesis and structure of four-coordinate metal complexes with bis[(tert-butyl)aminocarbonyl]-1,2-diaminoethane

Abstract The secondary coordination sphere in the active sites of metalloproteins is instrumental in controlling function. Non-covalent interactions, such as hydrogen bonds, are often used to create unique microenvironments around the metal ion(s). To duplicate these effects in synthetic complexes, first row transition metal complexes of the ligand bis[(tert-butyl)aminocarbonyl]-1,2-diaminoethane (H41) have been synthesized and structurally characterized. Twofold deprotonation of H41 affords the dianionic, bidentate ligand [H21]2−, which forms the four-coordinate complexes [MII(H21)2]2−. X-ray diffraction studies on [MII(H21)2]2− (M=Fe, Co, Zn) show that these complexes have pseudo-tetrahedral coordination geometry. H-bond donors from [H21]2− surround the metal centers in each complexes, and metrical data suggest that NH⋯M H-bonds are present in these complexes. The square-planar [NiII(H21)]2− has H-bond donors that span both faces of the coordination plane, forming intramolecular H-bonds between the [H21]2− ligands.
Will the Millennium Challenge Account Be Different

The Millennium Challenge Account initiative is a good start to significantly improve the allocation and delivery of U.S. foreign assistance. But the initiative itself, and a broader foreign assistance strategy, still need to be developed. Here's how.
OXYGEN DEPLETION OF A LIMITED RESERVOIR BY HUMAN CONJUNCTIVA.

ALTHOUGH the passage of oxygen across the tear-cornea interface is perhaps the best-known example of a direct pathway1–3 from atmosphere to tissue, other superficial areas can also be demonstrated to receive oxygen in similar manner.
A sub-nanosecond time-of-flight circuit utilizing the inherent modulation of a synchrotron beam

Abstract A relatively simple circuit having a resolution of 0.3 nsec has been built and used to separate particles of different mass generated by the Cornell 1.4 GeV electron synchrotron. The circuit has been in operation for a year and has played a central role in several experiments. The vernier chronotron principle of Cottini and Gatti is used so that no high speed electronics is required. The method utilizes the inherent radio frequency bunching of the internal electron synchrotron beam to produce a pulse modulated photon beam. The radio frequency itself is used to perform the timing. The circuit may also be used to make a direct coincidence between two counters with a resolution of 0.4 nsec.
New types of islet cells in a cyclostome, Petromyzon marinus L.

Four types of acidophilic granular cells, in addition to B-cells, are identified in the islet organ of anadromous specimens of two subspecies of Petromyzon marinus by light and electron microscopy. Three of these acidophils (PI, pII and PIV-cells) occur in both the cranial and hepatic islets while a fourth type (PIII-cell) has only been found in the hepatic islet of some animals. The granules of the PI-cells stain with ponceau de xylidine, give a distinct tryptophan reaction and in ultrastructural examination show large, dense granules. The PII-cells contain unusual crystals and appear to be a non-secretory stage of the PI. The PIII-cells stain deep-red with acid fuchsin. They contain very large, dense granules and some lysosomes. PIV-cells stain selectively with phosphotungstic acid-hematoxylin and ultrastructurally, contain small, more or less dense granules. It appears that PI- and PIV-cells develop directly from B-cells, while the PIII-cells derive from PI-cells. Despite their direct or indirect origin from B-cells, the pI-, PIII- and PIV-cells show characteristic features of functionally independent endocrine cells. Petromyzon marinus may be an ideal model for the understanding of phylogenetic and pathological interrelationships between islet and gastrointestinal hormones. It is clear that the interpretation of the islet organ of the cyclostomes, which has been generally considered a source of insulin only, requires a revaluation. This study was supported by funds from PHS grant RR-5414 to A. Epple
Temporal and spatial distribution of activated caspase‐3 after subdural kainic acid infusions in rat spinal cord

The molecular events initiating apoptosis following traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) remain poorly understood. Soon after injury, the spinal cord is exposed to numerous secondary insults, including elevated levels of glutamate, that contribute to cell dysfunction and death. In the present study, we attempted to mimic the actions of glutamate by subdural infusion of the selective glutamate receptor agonist, kainic acid, into the uninjured rat spinal cord. Immunohistochemical colocalization studies revealed that activated caspase-3 was present in ventral horn motor neurons at 24 hours, but not 4 hours or 96 hours, following kainic acid treatment. However, at no time point examined was there evidence of significant neuronal loss. Kainic acid resulted in caspase-3 activation in several glial cell populations at all time points examined, with the most pronounced effect occurring at 24 hours following infusion. In particular, caspase-3 activation was observed in a significant number of oligodendroglia in the dorsal and ventral funiculi, and there was a pronounced loss of oligodendroglia at 96 hours following treatment. The results of these experiments indicate a role for glutamate as a mediator of oligodendroglial apoptosis in traumatic SCI. In addition, understanding the apoptotic signaling events activated by glutamate will be important for developing therapies targeting this cell death process. J. Comp. Neurol. 464:463–471, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Hydrothermal model for predicting fire-induced spalling in concrete structural systems

A one-dimensional numerical model to predict fire-induced spalling in concrete structures is presented. The model is based on pore pressure calculations in concrete, as a function of time. Principles of mechanics and thermodynamics are applied to predict pore pressure in concrete structures exposed to fire. An assessment of the possibility of tensile fracture is made by comparing the computed pore pressure with temperature-dependent tensile strength. The pore pressure calculations are coupled with heat transfer analysis to ensure that the loss of concrete section, resulting from spalling, is accounted for in subsequent heat transfer analysis. The validity of the numerical model is established by comparing temperature, pore pressure, and concrete spalling predictions with results from fire tests. The computer program is applied to conduct case studies to investigate the influence of concrete permeability, tensile strength of concrete, relative humidity in concrete, and heating rate on fire-induced spalling in concrete members. Through these case studies, it is shown that permeability, tensile strength of concrete, and heating rate have a significant influence on fire-induced spalling in concrete. It is also shown that relative humidity has a marginal influence on fire-induced spalling in concrete.
Nitric oxide modulates retinal ganglion cell axon arbor remodeling in vivo.

Nitric oxide (NO) has been postulated to act as an activity-dependent retrograde signal that can mediate multiple aspects of synaptic plasticity during development. In the visual system, a role for NO in activity-dependent structural modification of presynaptic arbors has been proposed based on NO's ability to prune inappropriate projections and segregate axon terminals. However, evidence demonstrating that altered NO signaling does not perturb ocular dominance map formation leaves unsettled the role of NO during the in vivo refinement of visual connections. To determine whether NO modulates the structural remodeling of individual presynaptic terminal arbors in vivo we have: 1. Used NADPH-diaphorase histochemistry to determine the onset of NO synthase (NOS) expression in the Xenopus visual system. 2. Used in vivo time-lapse imaging to examine the role of NO during retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axon arborization. We show that NOS expression in the target optic tectum is developmentally regulated and localized to neurons that reside in close proximity to arborizing RGC axons. Moreover, we demonstrate that perturbations in tectal NO levels rapidly and significantly alter the dynamic branching of RGC arbors in vivo. Tectal injection of NO donors increased the addition of new branches, but not their stabilization in the long term. Tectal injection of NOS inhibitors increased the dynamic remodeling of axonal arbors by increasing branch addition and elimination and by lengthening pre-existing branches. Thus, these results indicate that altering NO signaling significantly modifies axon branch dynamics in a manner similar to altering neuronal activity levels (Cohen-Cory, 1999). Consequently, our results support a role for NO during the dynamic remodeling of axon arbors in vivo, and suggest that NO functions as an activity-dependent retrograde signal during the refinement of visual connections.
What is Delaying Elections in Lesotho

(2001). What is delaying elections in Lesotho? South African Journal of International Affairs: Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 75-81.
What Resulted in the Increase of Primary Prevention by Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy with Defibrillation (CRT-D) in Japan?

MADIT-CRT trial and REVERSE trial recommended the implantation of CRT-D in patients with a relatively early phase of heart failure (HF) and electrocardiac disturbance (ED). The primary prevention by CRT-D has already increased for recent days in Japan. However, it is little known what caused an increase of implantation of CRT-D. Methods: We investigated 3267 patients (66±11 years old) with newly implanted CRT-D in data-base of JCDTR. The clinical characteristics were compared between primary and secondary prevention. Further, we investigated the transition of percentage of primary prevention, LVEF, QRS duration and NYHA functional class at the implantation for the latest 5 years. Results: Subjects were divided into two group, primary (n=2073; 63%) and secondary prevention (n=1194; 37%). The clinical characteristics of primary prevention were relatively elder, lower LVEF, higher NYHA functional class and higher degree of LV dyssynchrony. However, there was no significant difference in QRS duration. The percentage of primary prevention of CRT-D has significantly increased from 50% to 69%. But, the percentages of NYHA I/II, LVEF>35% and QRS duration <130 msec did not significantly change for 5 years in the primary prevention group. Conclusion: Though the primary prevention of CRT-D has increased for 5 years, this did not result from the increase of patients with a relatively early phase of HF and ED.
"A Different Kind of the Same Thing": Marie de France's Laüstic and Glaspell's Trifles

(2008). 'A Different Kind of the Same Thing': Marie de France's Laustic and Glaspell's Trifles. The Explicator: Vol. 66, No. 3, pp. 170-174.
Epoxy, ZnO, and PTFE nanocomposite: friction and wear optimization

To lower the friction coefficient and increase the wear resistance of epoxy, nanoparticles of zinc oxide and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) were added in small volume percents to an epoxy matrix. Tribological testing of the samples in this study was completed on a linear reciprocating tribometer with a 250 N normal load and a 50.8 mm/s sliding speed. Several samples were made and tested following a modified Simplex Method optimization procedure in order to find a volume percent for optimized wear resistance and friction coefficient. The sample with the optimum wear rate consisted of 1 volume percent of zinc oxide nanoparticles and 14.5 volume percent of PTFE nanoparticles. It had a wear rate of k = 1.79 × 10−7 mm3/Nm; 400× more wear resistant than neat epoxy. The sample with the optimum friction coefficient consisted of 3.5 volume percent of zinc oxide nanoparticles and 14.5 volume percent of PTFE nanoparticles and had a friction coefficient of μ = 0.113, which is almost a 7× decrease in friction coefficient from neat epoxy.
Costs and Risks for Sire Selection Strategies in Artificial Insemination

Strategies for selecting sires for artificial insemination involve costs and risks. Costs were related closely to number of young bulls tested. Risk was defined as the standard deviation of Predicted Differences of bulls selected on pedigree for yield. Goals to obtain 25 sires varied in average Predicted Differences for milk. Young bulls were chosen for progeny testing at varying transmitting abilities estimated from pedigree. Also, various Repeatabilities were considered. Results were in three-dimensional graphs. With increasing selection intensity of progeny tested bulls, more bulls needed to be tested, which meant higher costs but less risk. Decreasing accuracy of estimation of Predicted Differences (i.e., reducing Repeatability) gave smaller variance of the estimated Predicted Differences of tested bulls and, therefore, higher selection intensities. Thus, more bulls needed to be sampled at lower risk when Repeatability was low. No objectively determined selection strategy was optimum, because costs and risks were weighted differently and subjectively by individuals making decisions.
Usefulness of an Elevated Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio in Predicting Long-Term Mortality After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

The neutrophil to lymphocyte (N/L) ratio is a recently described independent predictor of death/myocardial infarction in patients who have undergone coronary angiography. We hypothesized that an elevated N/L ratio would be a predictor of long-term mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A total of 1,046 patients who underwent PCI were divided into tertiles based on their preprocedural N/L ratio (mean N/L ratio, tertile 1, 1.7 ± 0.5; tertile 2: 3.2 ± 0.6; tertile 3, 11.2 ± 12.9). Vital status was assessed using the Social Security Death Index. There were a total of 144 deaths over a mean follow-up of 32 months. The best survival was seen in tertile 1, with an increase in long-term mortality seen in tertiles 2 and 3 (p
Effects of hypothalamic lesions on the carborespiratory responses to muscular contraction

Abstract Recent studies have sugested that descending central command from a hypothalamic site (subthalamic locomotor region) is involved in the control of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems during exercise. The purpose of this study were to determine if this hypothalamic area (1) provides tonic drive to the cardiorespiratory systems and (2) modulates the cardiorespiratory responses to static muscular contraction. Anesthetized cats were studied before and after bilateral electrolytic lesioning of the subthalamic locomotor region. Muscular contraction was evoked by stimulation of the L7-S1 ventral roots. Bilateral hypothalamic lesions produced a fall in resting levels for respiratory frequency, minute ventilation, heart rate and arterial pressure. The lesions did not alter the significant increases in arterial pressure and minute ventilation produced by muscular contraction. However, larger heart rate and respiratory frequency responses to muscular contraction occurred post-lesion. We conclude that this area of the hypothalamus provides tonic drive to the cardiorespiratory systems. Furthermore, the subthalamic locomotor region may participate in the modulation of some cardiorespiratory responses to neural feedback from contracting muscles.
A new perspective on the hydration characteristics of cement phases

Abstract The cement phases, C3S, C2S, C3A and C4AF of same particle size distribution characteristics were hydrated at a water : solid ratio of 0.45 and their hydration, strength and porosity characteristics were followed from a few days up to 1 year. Significant differences from Bogue-Lerch data were observed for relative strengths. The strength values at 10 days were in the order C4AF>C3S>C2S>C3A, whereas those of Bogue-Lerch were in the order C3S>C2S>C4AF>C3A. At 1 year the values were C3S>C2S>C4AF>C3A but those of Lerch-Bogue were C3S=C2S> C3A>C4AF. On a semi-log plot of strength vs porosity, the data points for the phases C3S, C2S and C4AF showed linearity and fell on the same line. The points for the C3A phase showed linearity but had a different slope from other phases. The ‘intrinsic strength’, defined as the strength extrapolated to zero porosity, was the same for all the pastes, the value being 500MPa.
Comment on "Universal jump of Gaussian curvature at the facet edge of a crystal"

A Comment on the Letter by Y. Akutsu, N. Akutsu, and T. Yamamoto, Phys. Rev. Lett. 61, 424 (1988).
Investigation of the stability of the Si III and Ge III crystal structures using force constants

The metastable crystalline phases of Si and Ge, known as Si III and Ge III, offer an interesting test of the force constant models currently being applied to the study of amorphous Si and Ge, since they are made up of distorted tetrahedral bonds. It is found that, using force constants depending only on the bond lengths and angles (adjusted to fit the phonon spectrum of the diamond cubic structure by Singh and Dayal), minimisation of the total energy gives structures and densities fairly close to the observed values for these phases. However, the magnitude of the total energy, relative to the diamond cubic structure, appears to be much too large and some caution seems advisable in applying this or similar models to the calculation of the heat of crystallisation of amorphous semiconductors. Les phases cristallines metastables de Si et Ge, connues sous les noms de Si III et Ge III, peuvent ětre utilisees comme un test interessant pour les modeles de constante de force couramment appliques a l'etude des phases amorphes de Si et Ge, car dans ces phases la structure est constituee de liaisons tetrahedrales deformees. On trouve que, si l'on utilise des constantes de force dependant seulement des longueurs des liaisons et des angles qu'elles font entre elles (ajustees par Singh et Dayal pour ětre en accord avec le spectre de phonons de la structure cubique du diamant), la minimisation de l'energie totale donne des structures et des densites trěs proches des valeurs observees pour ces phases. Cependant, la valeur de l'energie totale, comparee avec celle de la structure cubique du diamant, semble ětre beaucoup trop grande et quelques precautions semblent necessaries pour appliquer ce modele ou des modeles du měme genre au calcul de la chaleur de cristallisation des semiconducteurs amorphes.
Extremum Problem Formulations of Mixed-Form Models for Elastostatics

Expression is given here to the general elastostatics problem in the form of convex constrained extremum problems. The alternate formulations make use of a decomposition of the measure of stress and strain into two variationally independent components. This provides for the interpretation of the results as mixed models, as is to be demonstrated in what follows
Conductive Polymer Cladding Layers for Waveguide Electro-Optic Modulators

Optical, electrical, processability, and film casting characteristics of various conductive cladding layers were investigated. The goal was to find conductive polymer cladding materials suitable for fabricating and optimizing waveguide electro-optic modulators. Using cladding material that is more conductive than the core material, the poling fields in the core will be maximized, realizing a maximum electro-optic coefficient, which reduces the operating voltage in waveguide electro-optic modulators. We found, however, that there are tradeoffs between absorption losses, conductivity, refractive index, materials processability and materials compatibility when using off-the-shelf materials.
The ratio of zone lengths in high-temperature tunnel kilns

The ratios of the heating zone lengths existing in high-temperature tunnel kilns for firing magnesia refractories are not optimal. There are reserves for improving the operation of the kilns by optimizing the ratio of the zone lengths. The operation of the preheat zone in a high-temperature tunnel kiln is characterized by perfect heat-exchange and the presence of a reserve section. This zone can be reduced without damage to the furnace operation, as a result of which it is possible to elongate the cooling zone. Further treatment of the question of optimization of the ratio of zone lengths in a high-temperature tunnel kiln should be continued in the new kiln design developed by the All-Union Institute of Refractories, which is equipped with burner assemblies from the 19th position.
EVALUATION OF PCR AND DNA HYBRIDIZATION PROTOCOLS FOR DETECTION OF VIABLE ENTEROTOXIGENIC CLOSTRIDIUM PERFRINGENS IN IRRADIATED BEEF

The sensitivity of DNA hybridization and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), was evaluated in irradiated cooked and raw beef samples. A membrane-based colony hybridization assay and a PCR protocol, both with specificity for the enterotoxin A gene of Clostridium perfringens, were compared with viable plate counts. The results of the colony hybridization procedure were in agreement with viable plate counts for detection and enumeration of enterotoxigenic C. perfringens. The PCR procedure combined a 4 h enrichment followed by a nucleic acid extraction step and assessed the amplification of 183 and 750 base pair enterotoxin gene targets. Detection of C. perfringens by PCR did not show a reliable correlation with viable plate counts or the colony hybridization assay. C. perfringens killed by irradiation were not detected by the plate count or colony hybridization methods; however, killed cells were detected with the PCR technique. By relying on the growth of viable cells for detection and/or enumeration, the colony hybridization and plate count methods provided a direct correlation with the presence of viable bacteria.; Accepted for Publication August 6, 1997
Potential mechanisms underlying autoregulation of glucocorticoid receptor mRNA levels in the DHD/K12/PROb rat colonic adenocarcinoma cell line

Abstract The DHD/K12/PROb rat colonic epithelial cell line, which was originally derived from a chemically induced adenocarcinoma, expresses functional glucocorticoid receptors (GR) and has been reported to be growth inhibited by glucocorticoid agonists. In the present study the potential mechanisms underlying corticosteroid-mediated autoregulation of GR mRNA levels in this colonic cell line were investigated. The GR mRNA levels in the various treatment groups were quantitated via the ribonuclease protection assay using a specific 32 P-cRNA probe. Time-course experiments demonstrated that in contrast to several other cell lines that are also growth inhibited by glucocorticoids, treatment of confluent monolayers of PROb cells with the pure GR agonist RU 28362 (1 μM) elicits a rapid and significant (65%) down-regulation of GR mRNA levels that is sustained for at least 36 h. This down-regulation, which is also elicited to a lesser extent by weaker GR agonists including corticosterone and aldosterone, is blocked by the GR antagonist RU 38486. The protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide was utilized to demonstrate that the initial phase (6 h) of agonist-mediated down-regulation occurs independently of ongoing protein synthesis, although new protein synthesis, perhaps of the GR protein itself, is required to maintain this down-regulation. Although agonist-mediated down-regulation in these cells probably occurs primarily at the level of GR gene transcription, inhibition of ongoing RNA synthesis with actinomycin D or 5,6-dichloro-1-β- d -ribofuranosylbenzimidazole (DRB) demonstrated that during the initial phase (1 h) of this down-regulation, but not following maximal (18 h) down-regulation, RU 28362 treatment also significantly reduces the stability of the GR mRNA.
Immunological induction of increased vascular permeability. I. A rabbit passive cutaneous anaphylactic reaction requiring complement, platelets, and neutrophils.

Passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reactions were produced in rabbits by antibodies to bovine serum albumin. Two types of antibodies were found, each inducing increased vascular permeability, but by means of different mediation systems. One of these antibodies required the presence of complement, platelets, and neutrophils for the induction of the PCA reaction, which was inhibited by antihistamine. This antibody was heat stable, sedimented in the 7S region, and was found in both fast and slow electrophoretic fractions of rabbit γ-globulin. Homocytotropic antibody was also detected. The PCA reactions induced by this type of antibody did not require platelets or neutrophils and were not inhibited in rabbits depleted of C3 with cobra venom factor. The lesions were, however, prevented by administration of antihistamine.
Pathologic skin picking.

Background: Pathologic skin picking (PSP) is characterized by the repetitive and compulsive picking of skin which results in tissue damage. Objectives: This article sought to examine the evidence supporting the phenomenological, and biological links between PSP and substance use disorders. Methods: A review of the literature examining clinical presentation, comorbid psychiatric conditions, and treatment studies was used to examine the relationship of PSP and substance use disorders. Results: Prevalence rates of PSP range from 1.4–5.4% in the general population, with a much higher preponderance in females and in psychiatric patients. Significant medical complications are common, including scarring and infection. Although some pharmacologic agents (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, opioid antagonists, and glutamatergic agents) and non-pharmacologic treatments (habit-reversal therapy, Internet-based treatments, and acceptance-enhanced behavior therapy) have shown early promise in treating this often d...
The Hijab, the Veil, and Sexuation

I examine Ragland's thesis that, within Islamic Society, the Hijab may function not only as a marker of sexual difference but also as a signifier in a “feminine” strategy of what Joan Riviere calls masquerade – one of the two ways in which, according to Jacques Lacan, human beings (men or women) may cope with the psychic state of lack, that is, a condition of their entry to subjectivity. I then examine Lacan's further claim that through such a strategy human beings may gain access to another form of Jouissance, which, in breaking with the dull, tedious phallic rituals of imposture, goes “beyond the pleasure principle.” I also differentiate the Hijab from the Veil of Hollywood fame that has been so strongly criticized by Laura Mulvey and other feminist authors.
Confidence-based ensemble for GBM brain tumor segmentation

It is a challenging task to automatically segment glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain tumors on T1w post-contrast isotropic MR images. A semi-automated system using fuzzy connectedness has recently been developed for computing the tumor volume that reduces the cost of manual annotation. In this study, we propose a an ensemble method that combines multiple segmentation results into a final ensemble one. The method is evaluated on a dataset of 20 cases from a multi-center pharmaceutical drug trial and compared to the fuzzy connectedness method. Three individual methods were used in the framework: fuzzy connectedness, GrowCut, and voxel classification. The combination method is a confidence map averaging (CMA) method. The CMA method shows an improved ROC curve compared to the fuzzy connectedness method (p < 0.001). The CMA ensemble result is more robust compared to the three individual methods.
Uterine artery ligation in the maternal rat alters fetal tissue glucose utilization.

ABSTRACT: We studied the effects of maternal uterine artery ligation on fetal rat tissue glucose utilization (GU). Unilateral uterine artery ligations were performed on the 19th d of gestation (term 21.5 d) and 2-[3H]deoxy-D-glucose was used to measure GU of placenta, liver, brain, muscle, kidney, and heart from fetuses in the ligated (IUGR) and nonligated (control) uterine horns 24 and 48 h after the procedure. At both periods, IUGR fetuses weighed significantly less and had lower fetal/maternal plasma glucose ratios than controls. Twenty-four h after ligation, placenta, liver, brain, and muscle from IUGR fetuses had lower relative GU rates than corresponding tissues from control fetuses (p < 0.01-0.05). However, at 48 h, IUGR liver, muscle, kidney, and heart had higher relative GU rates than control tissues (p < 0.01-0.05). The lower GU of IUGR fetal tissues observed at 24 h postligation was likely related to the acute decrease in fetal glucose availability. Other factors, such as hypoxemia and acidosis, that affect cellular metabolism may also have led to lower GU rates. The increase in GU by IUGR tissues at 48 h occurred despite a persistence of low fetal glucose concentrations and can be explained by either: 1) an attempt by IUGR fetal tissues to compensate for the persistently low plasma glucose; 2) an increased demand for metabolic fuel for repair processes; or 3) a less efficient use of glucose due to alterations in cellular respiration. We speculate that this increase in fetal tissue GU may be partially responsible for the supranormal glucose requirements seen in small-for-gestational-age newborns.
“I NEVER DID ANY FIELD WORK, BUT I MILKED AN AWFUL LOT OF COWS!”: Using Rural Women's Experience to Reconceptualize Models of Work

To redefine work as a concept, the author develops the theoretical contours of a multidimensional continuum model of women's work that moves away from older dual spheres models, using oral histories of older rural white women from Iowa and Missouri. Based on a grounded theory analysis, the author discusses three important dimensions of a continuum model of work: economic benefits, location, and time control characteristics. These dimensions tend to funnel women into multiple work strategies where they combine several labor options to maximize economic benefit. A multidimensional continuum model allows us to observe some of the mechanisms operating in women's labor decision-making process. It suggests new ways of thinking about women's life course patterns. By providing us with a definition of work that more accurately reflects observed experience, it casts doubt on some of our social policies, especially those regarding the care of children and the elderly.
EIS study on the formation of solid electrolyte interface in Li-ion battery

Formation of solid electrolyte interface (SEI) on the surface of graphite in Li/graphite cells was studied using the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique. Results show that EIS of the cells varies considerably with cell voltage. In particular, resistance ( Rsei )o f the SEI increases significantly with lithiation and decreases reversibly in the subsequent delithiation in a narrow voltage range between 0.15 and 0.04 V. According to the change of the Rsei during the first lithiation process, we might divide the formation of the SEI into two voltage regions: the first region generally occurs above 0.15 V and the second region below 0.15 V. The SEI formed in the first region is less conductive, and that formed in the second region is highly conductive. It is shown that ionic conductivity of the preliminarily formed SEI is greatly affected by the kind of solvents and salts of the electrolyte. We observed that the Rsei increases in the order of LiBF4 > LiSO3CF3 > LiBOB > LiPF6 for salt, and of NMP > EMC > MB for solvent. Addition of vinylene carbonate into the electrolyte results in a significant increase of the Rsei. © 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.