cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Role of Media Parameters in Switching Granular Perpendicular Media Using Microwave Assisted Magnetic Recording

This paper describes the role of media parameters in magnetization switching in the presence of a DC bias and an in-plane RF field using a micromagnetic model. In this study, two sets of media parameters are compared for reduction in switching field based on the Larmor precessional frequency of the medium. It is found that a significant reduction in equivalent Stoner Wohlfarth (SW) field (HSW E) is observed only when a DC field is applied at a finite angle relative to the medium anisotropy direction (thetasA) and we observe a shallow minimum between 20deg and 30deg. A small field magnitude HSW E ( = 0.50 HK) for thetasA of 20deg for medium 1 using an RF field magnitude of 0.068 HK and an even smaller magnitude HSW E (=0.22 HK) for thetasA of 25degfor medium 2 using an RF field magnitude of 0.035 HK is required to switch the media for the case of a uniform granular medium without any distributions at T = 0 K. With the inclusion of magnetic materials distributions and/or introducing finite temperature, the coherent precession is lost due to the demagnetization field of neighboring grains. We compare HSW E required to switch the medium in the presence of RF assist to the SW field (HSW) required to switch the medium when there is no assist field. It is found that medium 1 shows a reduction of 28% in SW field while medium 2 shows no reduction in presence of in-plane RF field compared to the case when no RF field is applied. This highlights the importance of medium properties in microwave-assisted magnetic recording. Selection of media parameters will depend on the potential application of microwave-assisted recording in a continuous granular or the bit patterned media.
Sustainable Development: A Critique And Proposal

This paper critiques the linear-reductionist model, its disconnectedness and its intellectual compartmentalization that dominates much of modern science and proposes a value-shifting paradigm as being a necessary transformation to attain sustainable development in a multidisciplinary, multistakeholder arena.
Kinecting Physics: Conceptualization of Motion through Visualization and Embodiment.

The purpose of this work was to share our findings in using the Kinect technology to facilitate the understanding of basic kinematics with middle school science classrooms. This study marks the first three iterations of this design-based research that examines the pedagogical potential of using the Kinect technology. To this end, we explored the impact of using the Kinect in conjunction with an SDK Physical Virtual Graphing program on students’ understanding of displacement, velocity and acceleration compared to students who conducted more traditional inquiry of the same concepts. Results of this study show that, while there may be some affordances to be gained from integrating this technology, there is a need for a scaffolded approach that helps students to understand the “messiness” of the data collected. Further, meta-cognitive activities, such as reflective opportunities, should be integrated into the inquiry experiences in order to scaffold student learning and reinforce concepts being presented. While the Kinect did work to generate large-scale visualization and embodied interactions that served as a mechanism for student understanding, this study also suggests that a complementary approach that includes both the use of hands-on inquiry and the use of the Kinect sensor, with each activity informing the other, could be a powerful technique for supporting students’ learning of kinematics.
Mobility anisotropy in monolayer black phosphorus due to scattering by charged impurities

We explore the charged-impurity-scattering-limited mobility of electrons and holes in monolayer black phosphorus (BP), a highly anisotropic material. Taking full account of the anisotropic electronic structure in effective mass approximation, the zero-temperature momentum relaxation time and the charge carrier mobility are calculated based on the Boltzmann transport equation. For carrier densities accessible in experiments, we obtain anisotropy ratios of 3--4. These results are somewhat larger than mobility anisotropy ratios determined experimentally for multilayer BP samples, but due to the complex dependence of the scattering rates on the anisotropy, they are strikingly smaller than the effective mass ratios.
Organizational Commitment: A Comparison of American, Japanese, and Korean Employees

The article discusses a study pertaining to the compared levels of organizational commitment among U.S., Japanese, and Korean employees. Organizational commitment in this context refers to the rela...
APPLICATION OF R-FACTOR ANALYSIS IN HANDING MIXED SAMPLES OF PRIMARY HALO——A CASE STUDY OF FENGNING SILVER DEPOSIT

Primary halo is very effective to detect the deep mineralization of ore deposits.As primary halo samples collecting from Fengning silver deposit contain oxidized samples, these exists large difference among the results of different zoning sequence calculations. Based on multivariant statistical analysis of metallogenic and associated elements in the Fengning silver deposit, it is indicated that R-factor analysis is very effective for handling mixed geochemical data, and can provide references to deal with primary halo in the same kinds of ore deposits.
Effects of Technological Advances in Surgical Education on Quantitative Outcomes From Residency Programs.

Objectives The purpose of this article is to review the literature on current technology for surgical education and to evaluate the effect of technological advances on the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Core Competencies, American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) scores, and American Board of Surgery (ABS) certification. Design A literature search was obtained from MEDLINE via PubMed.gov, ScienceDirect.com, and Google Scholar on all peer-reviewed studies published since 2003 using the following search queries: technology for surgical education, simulation-based surgical training, simulation-based nontechnical skills (NTS) training, ACGME Core Competencies, ABSITE scores, and ABS pass rate. Results Our initial search list included the following: 648 on technology for surgical education, 413 on simulation-based surgical training, 51 on simulation-based NTS training, 78 on ABSITE scores, and 33 on ABS pass rate. Further, 42 articles on technological advances for surgical education met inclusion criteria based on their effect on ACGME Core Competencies, ABSITE scores, and ABS certification. Systematic review showed that 33 of 42 and 26 of 42 publications on technological advances for surgical education showed objective improvements regarding patient care and medical knowledge, respectively, whereas only 2 of 42 publications showed improved ABSITE scores, but none showed improved ABS pass rates. Improvements in the other ACGME core competencies were documented in 14 studies, 9 of which were on simulation-based NTS training. Conclusions Most of the studies on technological advances for surgical education have shown a positive effect on patient care and medical knowledge. However, the effect of simulation-based surgical training and simulation-based NTS training on ABSITE scores and ABS certification has not been assessed. Studies on technological advances in surgical education and simulation-based NTS training showing quantitative evidence that surgery residency program objectives are achieved are still needed.
Reprisals in Ireland, 1919–1921

Amritsar left a profound mark on the national psyche, the events in the Jallianwallah Bagh constituting their own trauma that would reverberate significantly as British politicians took steps to confront the nationalist movement in Ireland. Certainly, as we have seen, Dyer’s defenders hoped that the government would not restrain a commander whose ruthlessness was required to bring Irish rebels to heel. But many of those who could not countenance the actions of General Dyer against Indians appeared to find them acceptable when directed against the Irish. What they could not tolerate against Indians many seemed eager to perpetrate against Irish men and women. For the rest, reprisals either could not shake them from the lethargy induced by four years of warfare or they could not be assimilated by a nation suffering from profound collective trauma. Either way, the lawlessness and violence of British forces in Ireland went unchecked for more than a year as a campaign against British subjects regarded, since 1916, as enemies of the British people convulsed the island.
Keeping faculty current

Description d'un service efficace et peu couteux pour diffuser aux universitaires les photocopies des sommaires des periodiques selectionnes en fonction de leurs centres d'interet
Density Functional Theory Methods for Computing and Predicting Mechanical Properties

Density functional theory (DFT) is one of the most powerful and efficient approaches for predicting the properties of materials. Although formally exact, all modern DFT methods invoke various levels of approximation, due to the unknown form of the exact exchange-correlation functional. This book chapter focuses on four such representative functionals within the local density approximation, generalized gradient approximation, DFT-D, and nonlocal vdW DFT families to highlight their relevance in various mechanical and structural properties. In particular, to illustrate the use of these first-principles methods, we focus on two specific mechanical systems: palladium-hydride materials and spiropyran-based mechanochromic polymers, both of which pose unique challenges to electronic structure methods. We explore how these various DFT methods can be utilized to predict important mechanical properties such as cohesive energies, maximum strength, stress–strain properties, and mechanochromic effects. Finally, we conclude this chapter with a detailed analysis of the different functional families and highlight the relevance of each method for predicting the diverse mechanical properties of these material systems.
O2 Activation by Non-Heme Iron Enzymes

The non-heme Fe enzymes are ubiquitous in nature and perform a wide range of functions involving O2 activation. These had been difficult to study relative to heme enzymes; however, spectroscopic methods that provide significant insight into the correlation of structure with function have now been developed. This Current Topics article summarizes both the molecular mechanism these enzymes use to control O2 activation in the presence of cosubstrates and the oxygen intermediates these reactions generate. Three types of O2 activation are observed. First, non-heme reactivity is shown to be different from heme chemistry where a low-spin FeIII–OOH non-heme intermediate directly reacts with substrate. Also, two subclasses of non-heme Fe enzymes generate high-spin FeIV═O intermediates that provide both σ and π frontier molecular orbitals that can control selectivity. Finally, for several subclasses of non-heme Fe enzymes, binding of the substrate to the FeII site leads to the one-electron reductive activation of O...
Non-Hemolytic Antibody Induced Loss of RBC Antigen during Transfusion of Crossmatch Incompatible Blood.

Background: Transfusion of red blood cells (RBC) into patients with anti-donor RBC antibodies (crossmatch incompatible transfusion) can result in antibody mediated hemolysis. Less well appreciated is the ability of anti-RBC antibodies to specifically remove their target antigen from donor RBCs without compromising cell survival. This phenomenon has now been reported for the major clinically significant blood group antigens, including Rh, Kell, Kidd and Duffy. Although this has been described multiple times in humans, no mechanistic elucidation has been accomplished. In an effort to investigate the mechanism of this process, we describe the first animal model of non-hemolytic antibody induced RBC antigen loss. Methods: mHEL mice express the model antigen Hen Egg Lysozyme (HEL) as a cell surface protein on RBC. Since mHEL mice are on a C57BL/6 background, the mHEL antigen represents a single antigenic difference between donor RBC and recipient mice. Immunizing C57BL/6 mice with HEL/CFA results in the generation of high titer IgG anti-HEL responses rendering the mice crossmatch incompatible with mHEL RBC. This system was utilized to study the effects of transfusing mHEL RBC into crossmatch incompatible recipients. Results: Similar to the antibody induced antigen loss observed in humans, transfusion of donor mHEL RBC into crossmatch incompatible mice results in selective loss of HEL antigen from donor RBC without affecting other blood group antigens or reducing the circulatory lifespan of the donor RBC. In addition, recovered RBC that have lost their antigen have normal morphology. This process is antigen specific and occurs in mice that have received passive injections of anti-HEL antisera. A spleen is not required for antigen loss to occur. However, antigen loss does not occur in animals with a targeted deletion of the FcγIII receptor. Although polyclonal anti-HEL antisera consistently causes antigen loss, and IgG1 and IgG2b are the predominant subclasses of anti-HEL IgG in the antisera, no antigen loss is observed in response to purified monoclonal anti-HEL antibodies of the IgG1 and IgG2b subclass. Conclusion: These studies demonstrate that antibody induced antigen loss is a process that involves interaction of RBC, anti-RBC IgG and FcγIII receptors, thus providing mechanistic insight into the phenomenon of antigen loss during incompatible transfusion. The lack of antigen loss in response to monoclonal anti-HEL IgG1 or IgG2b suggests that antigen loss occurs in response to a minor IgG subtype in antisera, depends upon biological properties of the antibody (such as affinity), or that additional serum cofactors are involved.
Tokenism and Cultural (Mis)Recognition in the “Man with the Golden Voice”

The housing and economic crises of the late 2000s present scholars with a critical moment to interrogate the stories and subjectivities used to explain people's standing in a neoliberal system. Exa...
Winter Forage Program Benefitted Small-Scale Goat Producers

Small and limited resource farmers are raising goats on pastures in the southeast USA. Nevertheless, many of these farms do not have productive and quality pastures to support the nutrient requirements of their animals. Information on forages that are suitable to improve goat pastures and sustainably grazing those pastures with goats is still lacking. Study objectives were to (1) find winter forages suitable for goats, (2) evaluate the productivity and quality of these forages and (3) assess the benefits farmers would receive from pasture improvement and grazing management. Two separate studies were conducted, one in Selma and another in Phenix City, Alabama, USA in 2012 and 2013 (September/October-April). Each study was designed as a randomized complete block with three replications. Five legumes: Arrowleaf clover (Trifolium vesiculosum Savi), berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.), crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.), hairy vetch (Vicia villosa Roth) and winter peas (Pisum sativum L.) were grown with Marshall ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) in 40:60 legume: Grass ratio on separate strips. A sole Marshall ryegrass strip was planted as a control. Goats’ preference for and productivity and quality of forages and benefits associated with winter pasture and grazing were evaluated. Goats readily grazed all forages but winter peas at the very first exposure; from the second exposure onwards, goats grazed winter peas well. The mixtures of crimson clover and Marshall ryegrass and hairy vetch and Marshall ryegrass produced the most. The cost of goat production was significantly reduced because of the development and management of winter pastures. Raising goats on pastures can be much more beneficial than raising them on purchased feeds.
The Development of Habituation in the Domestic Chick

Age-dependent changes in both within- and between-session habituation of locomotor activity were found in young Vantress x Arbor Acre chicks. In three experiments, 1- and 4-day-old chicks were given a series of either six short 10-min. habituation sessions or three long 20-min. habituation sessions in a large cylindrical drum. Individual locomotor activity was measured as the mean number of photocell beam interruptions/min. After their last activity session, the chicks were isolated for 3 hr. and then were tested for retention. Major findings were as follows: (a) the 4-day-old chicks showed significant within- and between-session decreases in activity during both the short and long habituation sessions; (b) the 1-day-old chicks did not show either within- or between-session habituation on the initial sessions when brief exposures were given, but did show significant habituation on the longer sessions; and (c) significant spontaneous recovery was observed in the chicks of both ages following the longer but not the shorter sessions. Rubel and Rosenthal (1975) have reported that 1- and 4-day-old chicks do not differ in their rate of habituation of an elicited eye-opening response. Therefore, our finding of an age-dependent change in the young chicks’ habituation of locomotor activity suggests that the precocial chick, like the altricial rat, shows an ontogenetic dissociation in habituation of elicited and emitted responses.
Diagnostic approach in persistent Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia

Staphylococcus aureus is the leading cause of bacteraemia and can lead to complicated infections that may be difficult to diagnose and hence lead to higher morbidity. Failure to identify such could lead to severe complications or relapsing bacteraemia due to inadequate treatment. The authors report a patient presenting with methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) bacteraemia and septic arthritis, who developed a complicated infection with multiple metastasis and persistent bacteraemia despite adequate treatment. A fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography scan 2 weeks after the initial presentation identified a linear area of intense FDG uptake within the right upper extremity which raised suspicion for an infected thrombus within the right cephalic vein. Adequate treatment of the infected thrombus helped resolve the patient's persistent MRSA bacteraemia and complicated infection. This case highlights the importance of considering suppurative thrombophlebitis in the setting of persistent bacteraemia and metastatic infections due to MRSA.
TCache: An energy-efficient DRAM cache design

Emerging die-stacked DRAM cache provides high bandwidth and low latency to break the memory wall. However, energy becomes a major challenge with the increasing size of die-stacked DRAM cache. It is observed that DRAM cache with longer bitlines consumes more energy due to larger capacitance. To reduce the high energy of long bitlines, we propose the TCache by partitioning every subarray of DRAM cache banks into three sublevels and schedule energy-efficient data movement among these levels based on reuse distance. We propose LevelMap and WayMap indicating in which sublevel and way that every data block of DRAM cache is located. Evaluations show these techniques can efficiently reduce energy consumption by 33.4% and improve performance by 10.6% on average.
Assessment of Interventions to Improve Air Quality in a Livestock Building.

Abstract. This study examined the effectiveness of engineering controls to reduce contaminant concentrations in a swine farrowing room during winter in the U.S. Midwest. Over two winters, changes in air quality were evaluated following installation of a 1700 m3 h-1 (1000 cfm) recirculating ventilation system to provide 5.4 air exchanges per hour. This system incorporated one of two readily available dust control systems, one based on filtration and the other on cyclonic treatment. A second treatment evaluated reductions in carbon dioxide (CO2) associated with replacement of standard, unvented gas-fired heaters with new vented heaters, installed between the two winter test periods. The concentrations of carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide were negligible in the test room. Although concentrations of ammonia increased over each winter test period, the increase was unrelated to increased air movement from the new recirculating ventilation system. The dust concentrations were significantly reduced by the ventilation system for both inhalable dust (23% to 44% with filtration, 33% with cyclone) and respirable dust (32% with filtration, 20% with cyclone), significant (p
Evaluation of microscopic lane change models using NGSIM data

Lane change algorithms in microscopic simulation models aim at simulating a series of decision-making processes during lane change movement. The agreement between the simulated and field lane change behaviors is an important factor for simulation models to replicate the real world conditions. This paper is a first attempt to evaluate the overall consistency of lane change behaviors between microscopic simulation models and field observations. In this paper, the driver's decision-making processes, i.e. desirability, feasibility, and maneuverability are evaluated using cumulative distribution functions of driver lane change behaviors from the simulated and field data. These evaluations are performed for several variables representing driver behavior in mandatory and discretionary lane changes. A case study, simulating the field conditions of I-80 in Emeryville, CA with the popular microscopic simulation model VISSIM, is used to obtain the simulation results and compare with the field data.
Flameless atomic absorption spectroscopic determination of heavy metals in whole-fish samples

Flameless atomic absorption spectroscopy with a carbon rod atomizer was used to determine lead, cadmium, and chromium in whole-fish samples. Samples were dry-ashed, and the metals were separated by solvent extraction with ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate in methyl isobutyl ketone, and then back-partitioned into an aqueous acid solution for analysis. The back-partitioning step allows a direct comparison of sample solutions with aqueous solutions of the standard. Recoveries of the metals from fortified samples averaged 91% (+/-9.6) for lead and 100% (+/-5.6) for chromium at the 0.1-1 ppm level, and 100% (+/-13.3) for cadmium at the 0.01-0.1 ppm level.
Satisfaction and positive emotions: A comparison of the influence of hotel guests’ beliefs and attitudes on their satisfaction and emotions

Abstract This research provides a comparative study of two comprehensive servicescape models to explore the underlying influence of various hotel elements on guests’ satisfaction with, and emotional responses to, their hotel stays. Based on the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this research sought to identify the differences in guests’ beliefs and attitudes about the elements of hotels’ public areas, rooms, ambiance, social, and green practices in determining their satisfaction and emotions. Two structural models were developed illustrating the theorized interrelationships between identified constructs. Data collected through an online survey from 310 guests stayed in upscale hotels with four-star ratings were used for the analysis. Results from two structural models revealed that the model with attitudes is a better predictor of guest satisfaction and emotions than the model with beliefs. Further, emotionally attached guests engage more in WOM than did satisfied guests. Hotel managers need to offer experiences that consist of elements that matter to customers since customers’ attitude towards various service elements determine their satisfaction and emotional attachment with hotels. Additionally, in order to get brand promoters through WOM recommendations, hotels need to focus on emotionally attached customers than satisfied customers.
Fenofibrate: A Nonlithogenic Means of Recurrent Drug-Induced Pancreatitis

Medications account for a small portion of the various etiologies of acute pancreatitis. Prompt identification of drugs as the inciting factor decreases disease recurrence and unnecessary invasive diagnostic intervention. This case is a report of fenofibrate-induced acute pancreatitis including a disease recurrence with continuation of fenofibrate which subsequently resolved after drug discontinuation. The patient underwent invasive diagnostic evaluation including endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle aspiration and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Based on exclusion of other disease etiologies and a positive drug rechallenge, fenofibrate fits as a class 1A medication in the classification of drug-induced pancreatitis.
Preoperative MRI Shoulder Findings Associated with Clinical Outcome 1 Year after Rotator Cuff Repair

Background Investigation of the use of preoperative MRI for providing prognostic information regarding clinical outcome following rotator cuff repair has been limited. Purpose To determine whether patients with more severe rotator cuff tears of the shoulder at preoperative MRI have a greater degree of residual pain and disability after rotator cuff repair. Materials and Methods This retrospective study included a cohort of 141 patients who underwent surgical repair of a full-thickness rotator cuff tear at a single institution between April 16, 2012, and September 3, 2015. The mean patient age was 56.8 years, and there were 100 men (mean age, 56.1 years) and 41 women (mean age, 56.3 years). Patients completed the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) survey (lower score indicates less pain and disability) before and 1 year after surgery. One musculoskeletal radiologist blinded to the DASH scores measured the maximal anterior-posterior width and medial-lateral retraction of the rotator cuff tear on the preoperative MRI and assessed tendon degeneration and composite muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration using categorical grading scales (grade 0 indicates no tendon degeneration or muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration, and higher grades indicate incrementally more severe tendon degeneration or muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration). Generalized estimating equation models were used to determine the association between preoperative MRI findings and the postoperative DASH score. Results There was a significant positive association (P < .05) between the measured tear width (estimate, 2.05), measured tear retraction (estimate, 3.52), and tendon degeneration grade (estimate, 1.59) and the postoperative DASH score. There was no significant association (P = .49) between the composite muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration grade (estimate, 0.31) and the postoperative DASH score. Conclusion Patients with larger rotator cuff tears, more tendon retraction, and more severe tendon degeneration have worse clinical outcome scores 1 year after rotator cuff repair. © RSNA, 2019.
Skeletal Muscle Fiber Adaptations Following Resistance Training Using Repetition Maximums or Relative Intensity

The purpose of the study was to compare the physiological responses of skeletal muscle to a resistance training (RT) program using repetition maximum (RM) or relative intensity (RISR). Fifteen well-trained males underwent RT 3 d·wk−1 for 10 weeks in either an RM group (n = 8) or RISR group (n = 7). The RM group achieved a relative maximum each day, while the RISR group trained based on percentages. The RM group exercised until muscular failure on each exercise, while the RISR group did not reach muscular failure throughout the intervention. Percutaneous needle biopsies of the vastus lateralis were obtained pre-post the training intervention, along with ultrasonography measures. Dependent variables were: Fiber type-specific cross-sectional area (CSA); anatomical CSA (ACSA); muscle thickness (MT); mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR); adenosine monophosphate protein kinase (AMPK); and myosin heavy chains (MHC) specific for type I (MHC1), type IIA (MHC2A), and type IIX (MHC2X). Mixed-design analysis of variance and effect size using Hedge’s g were used to assess within- and between-group alterations. RISR statistically increased type I CSA (p = 0.018, g = 0.56), type II CSA (p = 0.012, g = 0.81), ACSA (p = 0.002, g = 0.53), and MT (p < 0.001, g = 1.47). RISR also yielded a significant mTOR reduction (p = 0.031, g = −1.40). Conversely, RM statistically increased only MT (p = 0.003, g = 0.80). Between-group effect sizes supported RISR for type I CSA (g = 0.48), type II CSA (g = 0.50), ACSA (g = 1.03), MT (g = 0.72), MHC2X (g = 0.31), MHC2A (g = 0.87), and MHC1 (g = 0.59); with all other effects being of trivial magnitude (g < 0.20). Our results demonstrated greater adaptations in fiber size, whole-muscle size, and several key contractile proteins when using RISR compared to RM loading paradigms.
DNA methylation changes and improved sleep quality in adults with obstructive sleep apnea and diabetes

Objective Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common among adults with diabetes. However, little is known about the impact of OSA treatment on DNA methylation levels. The purpose of this study is to explore changes in DNA methylation levels among adults with these conditions enrolled in a randomized controlled trial. Research design and methods Participants were randomized to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment or sham-CPAP placebo for 12 weeks. All participants received diabetes education and counseling. At baseline and 12 weeks, white blood cell DNA methylation levels for five candidate genes (ANGPTL4, DAPK3, KAT5, PER1, and TNFAIP3) and hemoglobin A1C (A1C) levels were obtained from blood. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) assessed sleep quality and daytime sleepiness, respectively. T-tests examined within-subject changes from baseline to 12 weeks. Regression analyses explored associations between DNA methylation changes and baseline variables, minutes of therapeutic CPAP use, and changes in A1C levels, PSQI scores, and ESS scores. Results Participants (n=10) were 70% female, 80% white, and 61.7±7.9 years old. Among all participants from baseline and 12 weeks, TNFAIP3 and PER1 DNA methylation levels decreased. At baseline, PER1 methylation levels were significantly higher in males and sex-based difference in methylation level changes was observed from baseline to 12 weeks. Changes in DNA methylation levels were not associated with minutes of therapeutic CPAP use or changes in A1C, PSQI scores, and ESS scores. Conclusions While DNA methylation level changes were observed in the study, the causal mechanism is unclear and additional work is needed. Although the methylation changes were small, the long-term effects are unknown.
Retinal capillary oximetry with visible light optical coherence tomography

Assessing oxygen saturation (sO2) remains challenging but is nonetheless necessary for understanding retinal metabolism. We and others previously achieved oximetry on major retinal vessels and measured the total retinal oxygen metabolic rate in rats using visible-light optical coherence tomography. Here we extend oximetry measurements to capillaries and investigate all three retinal vascular plexuses by amplifying and extracting the spectroscopic signal from each capillary segment under the guidance of optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography. Using this approach, we measured capillary sO2 in the retinal circulation in rats, demonstrated reproducibility of the results, validated the measurements in superficial capillaries with known perfusion pathways, and determined sO2 responses to hypoxia and hyperoxia in the different retinal capillary beds. OCT capillary oximetry has the potential to provide new insights into the retinal circulation in the normal eye as well as in retinal vascular diseases.
Formation energy puzzle in intermetallic alloys: Random phase approximation fails to predict accurate formation energies

We performed density-functional calculations to estimate the formation energies of intermetallic alloys. We used two semilocal approximations, the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) by Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof (PBE), and the strongly constrained and appropriately normed (SCAN) meta-GGA. In addition, we utilized two nonlocal DFT functionals, the hybrid HSE06, and the state-of-the-art random phase approximation (RPA). The nonlocal functionals such as HSE06 and RPA yield accurate formation energies of binary alloys with completely filled $d$-band metals, where semilocal functionals underperform. The accuracy of the nonlocal functionals is greatly reduced when a partially filled $d$-band metal is present in an alloy, while PBE-GGA outperforms in these cases. We show that the accurate prediction of formation energies by any DFT method depends on its ability to predict the accurate electronic properties, e.g., valence $d$-band contribution to the density of states (DOS). The SCAN meta-GGA often corrects the PBE-DOS, however, it does not provide accurate formation energies compared to PBE. This is assumed to be due to the lack of proper error cancellation that should be expected due to the similar bulk nature of both alloys and their constituents, which may improve with the modification of meta-GGA ingredients. RPA yields too-negative formation energies of alloys with partially filled $d$-band metals. RPA results can be corrected by restoring the exchange-correlation kernel, thereby improving the short-range electron-electron correlation in metallic densities.
Decomposition analysis as a framework for understanding heterogeneity of treatment effects in non‐randomized health care studies

This paper uses the decomposition framework from the economics literature to examine the statistical structure of treatment effects estimated with observational data compared to those estimated from randomized studies. It begins with the estimation of treatment effects using a dummy variable in regression models and then presents the decomposition method from economics which estimates separate regression models for the comparison groups and recovers the treatment effect using bootstrapping methods. This method shows that the overall treatment effect is a weighted average of structural relationships of patient features with outcomes within each treatment arm and differences in the distributions of these features across the arms. In large randomized trials, it is assumed that the distribution of features across arms is very similar. Importantly, randomization not only balances observed features but also unobserved. Applying high dimensional balancing methods such as propensity score matching to the observational data causes the distributional terms of the decomposition model to be eliminated but unobserved features may still not be balanced in the observational data. Finally, a correction for non-random selection into the treatment groups is introduced via a switching regime model. Theoretically, the treatment effect estimates obtained from this model should be the same as those from a randomized trial. However, there are significant challenges in identifying instrumental variables that are necessary for estimating such models. At a minimum, decomposition models are useful tools for understanding the relationship between treatment effects estimated from observational versus randomized data.
Kinetic analysis of antibody binding to integral membrane proteins stabilized in SMALPs

Abstract The fundamental importance of membrane protein (MP) targets in central biological and cellular events has driven a marked increase in the use of membrane mimetics for exploring these proteins as therapeutic targets. The main challenge associated with biophysical analysis of membrane protein is the need for detergent extraction from the bilayer environment, which in many cases causes the proteins to become insoluble, unstable or display altered structure or activity. Recent technological advances have tried to limit the exposure of purified membrane protein to detergents. One such method involves the amphipathic co-polymer of styrene and maleic acid (SMA), which can release lipids and integral membrane proteins into water soluble native particles (or vesicles) termed SMALPs (Styrene Maleic Acid Lipid Particles). In this study, assay conditions that leverage SMA for membrane protein stabilization were developed to perform kinetic analysis of antibody binding to integral membrane protein and complexes in SMALPs in both purified and complex mixture settings using multiple biosensor platforms. To develop a robust and flexible platform using SMALPs technology, we optimized various SPR assay formats to analyze SMALPs produced with cell membrane pellets as well as whole cell lysates from the cell lines overexpressing membrane protein of interest. Here we emphasize the extraction of model membrane proteins of diverse architecture and function from native environments to encapsulate with SMALPs. Given the importance of selected membrane targets in central biological events and therapeutic relevance, MP-specific or tag-specific antibodies were used as a proof-of-principal to validate the SMALPs platform for ligand binding studies to support drug discovery or tool generation processes. MP-SMALPs that retain specific binding capability in multiple assay formats and biosensors, such as waveguide interferometry and surface plasmon resonance, would be a versatile platform for a wide range of downstream applications.
A New Approach to Jurisdictional Questions in Transnational Litigation in U. S. Courts

A feature of the modern global economy is an ever-increasing amount of transnational litigation. If a stable, harmonious system of international legal order is to be nurtured, the courts that entertain these lawsuits must consider a range of foreign policy factors not present in purely domestic litigation. The state and federal judiciary in the United States, however, has not been sufficiently sensitive to the international implications of cases involving foreign transactions, incidents, or litigants. First, varying judicial approaches to dealing with such cases have prevented the United States from speaking with a single, consistent voice on the issues raised in transnational litigation. Second, the United States has been guilty of serious breaches of the comity of nations when its courts have engaged in ad hoc decisionmaking in international cases that unnecessarily frustrates the policies, offends the sovereignty, and disparages the legal systems of other nations. In response to these problems, this article proposes a coherent, principled approach to handling the important jurisdictional issues that arise in transnational cases. Part 1 looks at the current state of the law of jurisdiction in international litigation. Part 2 examines the flaws in current law, focusing on its adverse impact on the foreign policy of the United States. Finally, Part 3 suggests a new approach to resolving jurisdictional questions in transnational cases, outlining a framework based on explicit judicial consideration of the foreign policy implications of alternative jurisdictional decisions.
Laser-Assisted Scanning Probe Alloying Nanolithography (LASPAN)

Nanoscale science and technology demands novel approaches and new knowledge for further development. Nanofabrication has been widely employed in modern science and engineering. Probe-based nanolithography is a common technique to manufacture nanostructures. This research contributes fundamental understanding in surface science through development of a new methodology. A delicate hardware system was designed and constructed to realize the nanometer-scale direct writing. A simple and unique process, namely, laser-assisted scanning probe alloying nanolithography (LASPAN), to fabricate well-defined nanostructures has been developed. The LASPAN system, process, and the application in gold-silicon (Au-Si) binary system have been discussed in this chapter.
School Years in Troubled Times

I was born in Vienna in 1920, shortly after the end of World War I, and I lived the first 10 years of my life there. Needless to say, I understood very little of what was going on in the world, but perhaps the errors in the interpretations that I made of the world around me in those years are more important to record than what I now understand. I lived with my mother, father, and 5-year-older sister in a large house on the outskirts of Vienna, and whatever went on there was regarded by me in my young years as the normal goings on in a family. My father was picked up punctually every morning by our chauffeur and driven to his office, where he apparently directed a very large organization. I did not know too much of what this meant. I would usually have breakfast with him, but after breakfast, I would go upstairs to the kitchen where the nice cook, a lady from Bohemia (eine bohmische Kochin), supplied me with whatever goodies she could either find in the larder or make up for me. She was a marvelous cook, and I still remember many of her dishes. Meanwhile, my mother, who would usually still be in bed, would hand out to the maid a list of groceries to be obtained on her rounds to the butcher, and the baker, and the greengrocer, and whatever other stores had to be visited to complete the list. (Supermarkets were not introduced in Europe until much later.) Then I would probably go up to my nanny, much of the time a nanny from France, engaged to teach me French. Although my French vocabulary remained very limited, the French pronunciation that I learned has largely stayed with me and helped me in later years. Then there were the piano lessons and the never-ending etudes that I had to practice for the next day. Or I would go and play around in our spacious garden or help the gardener with some of his jobs.
Quasi three-section CAD model for MODFETs

A purely analytical model for MODFETs based on two-dimensional device simulation is proposed. In this model, proper treatment of the diffusion effect in two-dimensional electron gas (2-DEG) transport due to the gradual channel opening along the 2-DEG channel was used to explain the enhanced mobility and increased threshold voltage. By introducing the finite channel opening and an effective channel-length modulation, the slope of the saturation region of the I-V curves was modeled. The smooth transition of the I-V curves from linear-to-saturation region of the I-V curves was possible using the continuous Troffimenkoff-type of field-dependent mobility. A correction factor f was introduced to account for the finite transition section forming between the GCA and the saturated section. This factor removes the large discrepancies in the saturation region of the I-V curves predicted by previous one-dimensional models. >
Option pricing: A review

Abstract Recent advances in the general equilibrium pricing of simple put and call options lay the foundation for the development of a general theory of the valuation of contingent claims assets. This paper provides a review of: (1) the development of the general equilibrium option pricing model by Black and Scholes, and the subsequent modifications of this model by Merton and others; (2) the empirical verification of these models; and (3) applications of these models to value other contingent claim assets such as the debt and equity of a levered firm and dual purpose mutual funds.
Specifying Local Ontologies in Support of Semantic Interoperability of Distributed Inter-organizational Applications

Semantic interoperability through shared ontologies aims to ensure the semantic soundness of exchanges of services and data among distributed information systems (ISs). Collaboration via shared ontologies, however, requires that the local ontology of every co-operating IS be explicit. Unfortunately, common IS requirements specification methods are not geared towards producing the local ontology of an IS; they usually translate requirements into procedural notations that make a local ontology largely implicit in the software code. This paper presents a method for eliciting IS requirements and specifying them declaratively, in a way that makes explicit the local ontology. The resulting declarative requirements constitute explicit metadata that can be used to support semantic interoperability as well as enterprise modeling and knowledge management. We have already successfully applied our method to knowledge-based systems (KBSs). Since KBSs are also ISs, albeit more complex ones, our method offers a solid basis for creating ISs whose local ontologies are explicit.
Rottlerin Is a Mitochondrial Uncoupler That Decreases Cellular ATP Levels and Indirectly Blocks Protein Kinase Cδ Tyrosine Phosphorylation

Protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) is activated by stimuli that increase its tyrosine phosphorylation, including neurotransmitters that initiate fluid secretion in salivary gland (parotid) epithelial cells. Rottlerin, a compound reported to be a PKCδ-selective inhibitor, rapidly increased the rate of oxygen consumption (QO2) of parotid acinar cells and PC12 cells. In parotid cells, this was distinct from the effects of the muscarinic receptor ligand carbachol, which promoted a sodium pump-dependent increase in respiration. Rottlerin increased the QO2 of isolated rat liver mitochondria to a level similar to that produced when oxidative phosphorylation was initiated by ADP or when mitochondria were uncoupled by carbonyl cyanidep-trifluoromethoxyphenylhydrazone (FCCP). The effects of rottlerin on mitochondrial QO2 were neither mimicked nor blocked by the PKC inhibitor GF109203X. Rottlerin was not effective in blocking PKCδ activity in vitro. Exposure of freshly isolated parotid acinar cells to rottlerin and FCCP reduced cellular ATP levels and reduced stimuli-dependent increases in tyrosine phosphorylation of PKCδ. Neither rottlerin nor FCCP reduced stimuli-dependent PKCδ tyrosine phosphorylation in RPG1 cells (a salivary ductal line) or PC12 cells, consistent with their dependence on glycolysis rather than oxidative phosphorylation for energy-dependent processes. These results demonstrate that rottlerin directly uncouples mitochondrial respiration from oxidative phosphorylation. Previous studies using rottlerin should be evaluated cautiously.
Star formation and clustering in the Hubble Deep Field

We have derived a complete and reliable flux limited sample of 15 µm selected galaxies in the ISO-HDF. These galaxies have been shown to produce a large fraction of the Cosmic Infrared Background. From their mid-infrared luminosities, we deduce their star formation rates, and compare then to the ones that can be derived from their radio emission. We find excellent agreement, except for a few objects that are known to be AGN-dominated from their X-ray properties. We show that our sample is more strongly clustered than optical samples, and discuss the constraints it puts on hierarchical models of galaxy evolution.
Article delivery using ReadCube Access: a report on use in five US libraries

Purpose – This paper aims to update information on ReadCube Access and briefly reviews its history. The study also reports on the use of ReadCube Access by five US academic libraries. Design/methodology/approach – A series of questions was distributed to selected academic libraries using ReadCube Access. Survey recipients were asked to describe the library and the institution served, how long ReadCube Access has been in use, how many journals from Nature Publishing Group (NPG) were licensed and how many journals were being provided using ReadCube Access. Participating libraries were also asked to provide information about the purchase options offered to end-users, were asked to report on ReadCube Access usage and were requested to compare that usage to interlibrary loan (ILL) requests for NPG journals. Finally, the libraries were asked to share any comments about ReadCube Access they wished, including end user feedback and comments from library staff. Findings – ReadCube Access is shown to be cost-effecti...