cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The principle of micro thermal analysis using atomic force microscope

A mathematical model for micro thermal analysis is developed based on heat conduction equation. It interprets the principle of micro thermal analysis by relating its signals directly to established parameters of materials, such as thermal conductivity, specific heat etc. Based on the theory, a new instrument is designed employing three components of electrical current to drive a thermal probe. A high frequency component is used to measure probe temperature; a low frequency and a dc component are used for temperature control. Thermal properties of materials are measured by monitoring ac temperature response to a known ac driving power and monitoring dc power consumption for a known dc temperature input. With the new design, thermal information of a sample can be separated from the artifact caused by a measuring probe. Glass transitions of polymers can be easily identified from both dc and ac signals.
Physical Understanding and Sensitivities of LPT Flutter

Successful, efficient turbine design requires a thorough understanding of the underlying physical phenomena. This paper investigates the flutter phenomenon of low pressure turbine (LPT) blades seen in aircraft engines and power turbines. CFD analysis will be conducted in a two-dimensional sense using a frequency domain RANS solver on a publicly available LPT airfoil geometry: EPFL’s Standard Configuration 4. An emphasis is placed on revealing the underlying physics behind the threatening LPT flutter mechanism. To this end, flutter sensitivity analysis is conducted on three key parameters: reduced frequency, mode shape, and Mach number. Additionally, exact two-dimensional acoustic resonance inter-blade phase angles (IBPAs) are analytically predicted as a function of reduced frequency. Made evident via damping vs. IBPA plots, the CFD model successfully captures the theoretical acoustic resonance predictions. Studies of the decay of unsteady aerodynamic influence coefficients away from a reference blade are also presented. The influence coefficients provide key insights to the harmonic content of the unsteady pressure field. Finally, this work explores methods of normalizing the work per cycle by the exit dynamic pressure.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
A new high-resolution 11-mm diagonal image sensor for still-picture photography

The author describes a novel CCD (charge coupled device) frame-transfer image sensor is designed to be used in high-resolution cameras for still-picture photography. The device has the capability of capturing both TV fields at the same time and storing the data in two independently addressable field memories. The novel architecture permits operation in various modes ranging from the movie to a high-resolution mode with 968 lines. Additional features include operation in both an interlaced or sequential line-scanning mode and in an electronic-shutter mode if a small amount of image smear is tolerated or electronically subtracted from the signal. The image sensing area has an 11-mm diagonal, 486 lines, and 1134 active pixels in each line. The sensor fabrication is based on the virtual-phase technology with electron-hole recombination antiblooming. This allowed an easy implementation of a relatively complex charge domain multiplexing into three signal channels. The device can be used for color-sensing applications if a striped-color filter is attached to the chip or directly fabricated on the chip. The characterization results confirm the expected high device performance and demonstrate that the new concept is a viable alternative to existing architectures developed for similar applications. >
Novel estrogen receptor coactivator PELP1/MNAR gene and ERβ expression in salivary duct adenocarcinoma: potential therapeutic targets

Summary Salivary duct carcinoma (SDC) is a high-grade neoplasm with marked morphological resemblance to mammary duct carcinoma. The novel estrogen receptor (ER)–interacting protein and the proline-, glutamic acid–, and leucine-rich protein 1 ( PELP1 ), also called the modulator of nongenomic activity of ER ( MNAR ), have been shown to activate steroid hormone receptors in mammary carcinomas by nongenomic and genomic mechanisms. The expression and the relationship of this gene to the ER status in SDCs are unknown. We investigated the differential expression of the PELP1 / MNAR and the ERs α and β proteins in SDCs, using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Western blot analysis of 7 paired normal and tumor specimens showed increased expression of PELP1 / MNAR and ER β in 3 and 4 of the SDCs, respectively. No detectable expression of ER α in any normal or SDC specimens was noted. Immunohistochemical staining performed on 70 SDCs revealed strong expression of PELP1 / MNAR in 51 (73%) and ER β in 52 (74%) tumors. PELP1 / MNAR and ER β were coexpressed in 35 (50%), individually in 17 (24.2%), and negative in 18 (25.7%) tumors. PELP1 / MNAR staining was predominantly cytoplasmic whereas ER β staining was nuclear and occasionally cytoplasmic in tumor cells. Our results indicate that PELP1 / MNAR and ER β are coexpressed in most SDCs and may play a role in the pathobiology of these tumors.
Measurement of the Raman gain spectrum of optical fibers

The stimulated Raman gain spectrum of optical fibers has been measured down to 6 cm(-1) by means of short pulses. Results for parallel and perpendicular polarizations are reported. With this technique, we observe spectral oscillations arising from a Brillouin mediated coupling between cw and pulsed light.
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy: a ‘final common pathway’ that defines clinical phenotype

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia/cardiomyopathy (ARVD/C) is a primary heart muscle disease with distinct characteristics. ARVD/C predominantly affects the right ventricle (RV), with RV dilation and thinning due to fibrofatty infiltration of the ventricular myocardium, and ultimately depressed systolic function leading to right heart failure or biventricular failure.1 Early in its clinical course, ARVD/C typically presents with ventricular arrhythmias (usually with a left bundle branch pattern), syncope, or sudden cardiac death.2 Tragically, this clinical scenario commonly occurs in young, healthy, athletic individuals. A set of clinical criteria, known as the ‘Task Force Criteria’, first described by McKenna et al .3 in 1994 and later modified for inclusion of family members,4 utilizes electrical, myocardial and clinical features to clinically diagnose patients with this disorder.3,4 The familial nature of ARVD/C has been recognized for many years but the underlying genetic and mechanistic basis of the disease has only recently come to light. The disease is transmitted with an autosomal dominant trait, although autosomal recessive disease with complex phenotype including associated skin and hair abnormalities is also well described.5 In the majority of cases, penetrance appears to be low, usually well below 50%. In the early 1990s, we proposed that similar clinical phenotypes occur based on disruption in ‘final common pathways’ by direct mutation in genes encoding proteins in a … *Corresponding author. Tel: +1 832 826 5651; fax: +1 832 825 5921. E-mail address : jtowbin{at}bcm.tmc.edu
Child custody evaluatons: A rational process for an emotion-laden event

Abstract Once mediation or other means of self-determination have proven ineffective with a divorcing couple, historically, the adversarial legal system has been activated. This article is designed to present a consultation model which can serve to diminish what is so often the destructive impact of the adversarial process. The process and procedures described are consonant with what most state statutes suggest as criteria for consideration in custody decisions, and are certainly designed to promote the best interests of the children. A pervasive belief of the authors is that the best interests of the children can only be insured by assessing and considering the overall family operation, not just the individuals who constitute the family
Variability of solar radiation under cloud-free skies in China : The role of aerosols

In this study, we analyzed long-term surface global and diffuse solar radiation, aerosol single scattering albedo (SSA), and relative humidity (RH) from China. Our analysis reveals that much of China experienced significant decreases in global solar radiation (GSR) and increases in diffuse solar radiation under cloud-free skies between the 1960s and 1980s. With RH and aerosol SSA being rather constant during that time period, we suggest that the increasing aerosol loading from emission of pollutants is responsible for the observed reduced GSR and increased diffuse radiation in cloud-free skies. Although pollutant emissions continue to increase after the 1980s, the increment of aerosol SSA since 1980s can partly explain the transition of GSR from a decreasing trend to no apparent trend around that time. Preliminary analysis is also provided on the potential role of RH in affecting the global and diffuse solar radiation reaching the earth surface.
Photonic crystal waveguide electro-optic modulator for GHz bandwidth applications

Electro-optic modulators were fabricated on Si3N4/BaTiO3/MgO waveguides. Photonic crystals (PhCs) were introduced to minimize the phase velocity mismatch. The 3mm long PhC modulator has a Vπ of 5.5V and 3dB bandwidth greater than 15GHz.
Optimal control of linear time-varying systems via Fourier series

The optimal control of linear time-varying systems with quadratic cost functional is obtained by Fourier series approximation. The properties of Fourier series are first briefly presented and the operational matrix of backward integration together with the product operational matrix are utilized to reduce the optimal control problem to a set of simultaneous linear algebraic equations. An illustrative example is included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the technique.
Stimulus compatibility effects of an accessory visual stimulus on auditory sensitivity

Studies have reported that an accessory stimulus in a second modality can have a facilitative effect on sensory detection in a primary modality. However, performance declines when the subject has the additional task of reporting on the accessory stimulus. The facilitative effect has been attributed to an arousal or warning process, while the interference effect has been characterized as a result of limited channel capacity. Auditory sensitivity was assessed under accessory visual stimulation. Visual stimulus intensity (arousal), processing demand, and interstimulus compatibility (same or opposite direction of change of primary and secondary stimuli) were manipulated. The results indicated that interstimulus compatibility, not arousal, accounted for the obtained facilitation effect. Interference due to additional task demands was not observed. It was proposed that the facilitation effect was due to selective sensory encoding.
A 2.5-GHz low-power, high dynamic range, self-tuned Q-enhanced LC filter in SOI

Q-enhanced LC filter technology offers a promising approach to remove the off-chip preselect filter still required in current transceivers. However, reported designs fail to meet stringent system specifications such as dynamic range and noise figure for existing wireless standards. The complexity and inaccuracy of frequency and Q tuning have also prevented acceptance in industry applications. This paper presents a low-power and high-performance design targeted at Bluetooth in a silicon-on-isolator (SOI) CMOS process. Drawing 5 mA from a 3-V supply, it achieves 23-dB voltage gain (14-dB power gain), approximately 6-dB noise figure, and a 153-dB/spl middot/Hz 1-dB compression point dynamic range, when operating with a 70-MHz bandwidth at 2.5 GHz. A simplified approach to frequency and Q tuning is also demonstrated, making Q-enhanced LC filtering feasible in industry application for the first time.
Strong laws and limit theorems for local time of Markov processes

The local time of a Markov process can be constructed from the length of small excursions. We obtain the exact almost sure rate of this construction. We also prove a functional limit theorem for the difference between the length of small excursions and the local time at zero.
Shunt revision: complications and their prevention

Long-term maintenance of neurologic function in shunt-dependent individuals requires vigilance and attention to detail. This review details the essential elements for the long-term surveillance of the
Localization of NaK ATPase activity in the nautilus siphuncle

The siphuncle of the chambered nautilus (Nautilus spp) can transport cameral liquid against osmotic pressure gradients, and is presumed to be able to transport against hydrostatic pressure gradients. It is hypothesized that the mechanism of such transport involves “local osmosis” in which the siphuncle actively trasports sodium into the blind-ended sacs of the siphuncle cells' basolateral labyrinth. This study supports this hypothesis since NaK ATPase activity was localized only over the membranes of the labyrinth. The appearance of the reaction product required potassium and was inhibited by ouabain, a specific inhibitor of the NaK ATPase.
InAs/InAsSb Type-II superlattice: a promising material for mid-wavelength and long-wavelength infrared applications

Optical and structural properties of InAs/InAsSb type-II superlattices (T2SL) and their feasibility for mid- and longwavelength infrared (MWIR and LWIR) photodetector applications are investigated. The InAs/InAsSb T2SL structures with a broad bandgap range covering 4 μm to 12 μm are grown by molecular beam epitaxy and characterized by highresolution x-ray diffraction and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. All of the samples have excellent structural properties and strong PL signal intensities of the same order of magnitude, indicating that non-radiative recombination is not dominant and the material system is promising for high performance MWIR and LWIR detectors and multiband FPAs.
Impulsiveness and executive control of working memory

Deficits in the executive control system of working memory (WM) may explain some of the cognitive and behavioral problems exhibited by individuals identified as being impulsive on self-report measures. However, existing measures of executive control tend to collapse across several potentially dissociable indices. Therefore, people who score high on a self-report measure of impulsiveness may achieve that high score based on fundamentally different executive control processing difficulties. In the present study we predicted impulsiveness scores from several different measures of executive control, including a novel measure of memory scanning. Results of this study indicate that different subtypes of impulsivity are related to different aspects of executive control.
659 HERIDITARY ELLIPTOCYTOSIS, RED CELL FRAGMENTATION, AND DECREASED GLUTATHIONE (GSH)

Marked poikilocytosis accompanied by membrane fragmentation and microspherocyte formation have been described in occasional cases of hereditary elliptocytosis. We have studied a healthy 10 year old black male with a compensated hemolytic anemia, elliptocytosis and severe red cell fragmentation. Several parameters known to affect RBC membrane stability were found to be normal: pyruvate kinase activity, RBC ATP content, unstable hemoglobin evaluation, direct and indirect Coomb's tests, membrane thermal sensitivity, RBC calcium and calcium permeability, RBC cholesterol and phospholipid content, and the distribution of membrane phosphatides including phosphatidyl ethanolamine. The only abnormality found was a RBC GSH content approximately 50% of normal (below that seen in most G-6-PD deficiencies). Furthermore, in centrifugally-separated cells, GSH content decreased progressively with increasing cell density. Unlike G-6-PD deficiency the low GSH content was not accompanied by abnormal oxidant sensitivity; GSH was not diminished by incubation with ascorbate-aminotriazole and no methemoglobin or sulfhemoglobin was formed. Enzymes involved in GSH metabolism (GSH reductase, G-6-PD, GSH peroxidase) were slightly elevated. Incubation of RBC with H3-glutamate, with subsequent molecular weight separation of the GSH inermediates, suggests an intact GSH synthetic pathway but diminished H3-glutamate content. The low RBC GSH may be related to the RBC morphologic features and hemolysis.
Projection of California's Future Freshwater Requirements for Power Generation

Water and energy are inextricably linked. Water is needed for energy production, and energy is needed for the extraction, conveyance, treatment, and distribution of water. Water requirements for electricity generation vary significantly, depending on the primary energy source, conversion technologies, and cooling technologies. Therefore, to meet future demands, integrated planning between both the energy and water sectors is essential. This analysis provides a tool that supports integrated planning by quantifying the water requirements for electricity generation from both renewable and non-renewable sources. Using California as a case study, we assessed the freshwater requirements for current and future electricity generation under several different energy portfolios. Our analysis demonstrated the potentially positive effects of investment in certain renewable resources such as solar photovoltaics, wind power, and waste-based bioenergy. Similarly, dry cooling technologies, if employed in thermoelectric po...
On the Steady Nature of Line-driven Disk Winds: Application to Cataclysmic Variables

We apply the semianalytical analysis of the steady nature of line-driven winds presented in two earlier papers to disk winds driven by the flux distribution of a standard Shakura & Sunyaev disk for typical cataclysmic variable (CV) parameters. Our main conclusion is that a line-driven wind, arising from a steady disk flux distribution of a standard Shakura-Sunyaev disk, is steady. These results are consistent with the steady velocity nature of outflows observationally inferred for both CVs and quasi-stellar objects (QSOs). We find good agreement with the 2.5-dimensional CV disk wind models of Pereyra and collaborators. We find that the wind critical point tends to be closer to the disk surface toward the inner disk regions.
PHOSPHORUS FRACTIONS OF THE HUMAN AORTA.

Summary The analysis of phospholipid, trichloroacetic acid and residue phosphorus fractions was made on 29 human aortas varying from a visual classification of absent to far advanced atherosclerosis. Phospholipids increased with severity of the disease. The phosphorus in the TCA extract of aortic tissue was shown to increase with increasing severity of atherosclerosis. A third fraction labelled “residue phosphorus” decreases in less severe states of atherosclerosis. In the more advanced situations of atherosclerosis this fraction tends to increase toward normal.
Instrumental sensing of stationary source emissions

A variety of programs have been conducted within EPA to evaluate the capability of various ground-based remote-sensing techniques for measuring the SO2 concentration, velocity, and opacity of effluents from coal-burning power plants. The results of the remote measurements were compared with the results of instack measurements made using EPA reference methods. Attention is given to infrared gas-filter correlation radiometry for SO2 concentration, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy for SO2 concentration, ultraviolet matched-filter correlation spectroscopy for SO2 concentration, infrared and ultraviolet television for velocity and SO2 concentration, infrared laser-Doppler velocimetry for plume velocity, and visible laser radar for plume opacity.
In situ immobilization of heavy metals associated with uranium leach mines by bacterial sulfate reduction

Abstract Laboratory experiments with mixed populations of sulfate-reducing bactreria were shown to mediate the removal of milligrams/liter concentrations of uranium, selenium, arsenic and vanadium from aqueous solution via reduction, precipitation and adsorption. Results of laboratory experiments with active sulfidogenic biomass suggest that injection of sulfate and a source of carbon could enhance anaerobic microbial activity in and around uranium leach mines leading to in situ immobilization contaminating metals.
Culture and biodiversity losses linked.

In their Review “Biodiversity Conservation: Challenges beyond 2010” (10 September 2010, p. [1298][1]), M. R. W. Rands et al. do not sufficiently emphasize the connection between the biodiversity crisis and threats facing indigenous communities. The United Nations' recent “State of the World's
Transcription elongation factor ELL2 drives Ig secretory-specific mRNA production and the unfolded protein response.

Differentiation of B cells into Ab-secreting cells induces changes in gene transcription, IgH RNA processing, the unfolded protein response (UPR), and cell architecture. The transcription elongation factor eleven nineteen lysine-rich leukemia gene (ELL2) stimulates the processing of the secreted form of the IgH mRNA from the H chain gene. Mice (mus musculus) with the ELL2 gene floxed in either exon 1 or exon 3 were constructed and crossed to CD19-driven cre/CD19+. The B cell–specific ELL2 conditional knockouts (cKOs; ell2loxp/loxp CD19cre/+) exhibit curtailed humoral responses both in 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl acetyl–Ficoll and in 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl acetyl–keyhole limpet hemocyanin immunized animals; recall responses were also diminished. The number of immature and recirculating B cells in the bone marrow is increased in the cKOs, whereas plasma cells in spleen are reduced relative to control animals. There are fewer IgG1 Ab-producing cells in the bone marrow of cKOs. LPS ex vivo–stimulated B220loCD138+ cells from ELL2-deficient mouse spleens are 4-fold less abundant than from control splenic B cells; have a paucity of secreted IgH; and have distended, abnormal-appearing endoplasmic reticulum. IRE1α is efficiently phosphorylated, but the amounts of Ig κ, ATF6, BiP, Cyclin B2, OcaB (BOB1, Pou2af1), and XBP1 mRNAs, unspliced and spliced, are severely reduced in ELL2-deficient cells. ELL2 enhances the expression of BCMA (also known as Tnfrsf17), which is important for long-term survival. Transcription yields from the cyclin B2 and the canonical UPR promoter elements are upregulated by ELL2 cDNA. Thus, ELL2 is important for many aspects of Ab secretion, XBP1 expression, and the UPR.
Cross-gender behavior and gender conflict in sexually abused girls

ABSTRACT Objective This study contrasted a group of sexually abused girls, aged 6 to 12 years, with two demographically comparable control groups, girls from a child psychiatry outpatient clinic, and girls from a general pediatric clinic, to determine whether differences in gender role behavior and identity could be demonstrated. Method All girls underwent an evaluation protocol that included a semistructured interview for children, the Gender Role Assessment Schedule–Child (GRAS-C). The mothers were administered several questionnaires including two parent-report measures of gender-related behavior in their children, the Child Game Participation Questionnaire (CGPQ) and the Child Behavior and Attitude Questionnaire–Female version (CBAQ-F). Results Sexually abused girls manifested significantly more cross-gender behavior on the GRAS-C (in the areas of gender role preference and aggression) and gender identity conflict than did nonabused girls in both comparison groups. For the sexually abused and psychiatric control groups, their parents reported greater involvement in traditionally masculine games on the CGPQ, but on the CBAQ-F, no significant group differences were found. Conclusions Findings suggest that sexual abuse in preadolescent girls is associated with cross-gender behavior and gender conflict.
Protein tertiary structure prediction using a branch and bound algorithm.

We report a new method for predicting protein tertiary structure from sequence and secondary structure information. The predictions result from global optimization of a potential energy function, including van der Waals, hydrophobic, and excluded volume terms. The optimization algorithm, which is based on the αBB method developed by Floudas and coworkers (Costas and Floudas, J Chem Phys 1994;100:1247–1261), uses a reduced model of the protein and is implemented in both distance and dihedral angle space, enabling a side-by-side comparison of methodologies. For a set of eight small proteins, representing the three basic types—all α, all β, and mixed α/β—the algorithm locates low-energy native-like structures (less than 6A root mean square deviation from the native coordinates) starting from an unfolded state. Serial and parallel implementations of this methodology are discussed. Proteins 1999;35:41–57. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Specimen materials, target values and commutability for external quality assessment (proficiency testing) schemes.

Background: The objective of external quality assessment is to evaluate clinical acceptability of laboratory results. It is desirable to evaluate intermethod harmonization and traceability to a reference system. Methods: Conventional matrix-modified processed materials are used in most programs, because they can be produced in large quantities, can have multiple abnormal analytes in the same vial and have excellent stability. The principal limitation of these materials is non-commutability which makes them unsuitable for traceability or harmonization evaluation. Peer group evaluation is used which allows an individual laboratory to confirm appropriate use of a measurement technology and a manufacturer to monitor uniformity in their calibration transfer process. Authentic clinical specimen pools provide commutability but are limited by the quantity available and number of analytes at pathologic levels in the same vial. Hybrid approaches have used authentic clinical specimen pools in conjunction with non-commutable processed materials to determine method-specific matrix-corrected target values which have enabled evaluation of traceability to reference methods. Conclusions: Conventional processed materials are limited by non-commutability. Pooled clinical specimens are limited by availability. When used together, external quality assessment can evaluate traceability to reference systems and harmonization between test procedures.
A prospective early history of incident interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome.

Purpose: The longitudinal history of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome has been studied infrequently. In a national sample of incident cases we assessed changes in symptoms during the first several years of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome.Materials and Methods: We recruited 312 women with a history of interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome symptoms of 12 months or less and interviewed them by telephone at baseline, and 6, 12, 18, 24, 36 and 48 months later. We queried symptoms in the last week and interval medication use. Individual and composite symptom categories were constructed.Results: The median history of symptoms at study enrollment was 9 months. Median followup was 33 months after onset. The 57 study withdrawals (18%) were not substantively different than those remaining in followup. Many cases of severe and moderate interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome at enrollment improved with time. As followup progressed, increasing proportions reported improveme...
Integrating B Cell Lineage Information into Statistical Tests for Detecting Selection in Ig Sequences

Detecting selection in B cell Ig sequences is critical to understanding affinity maturation and can provide insights into Ag-driven selection in normal and pathologic immune responses. The most common sequence-based methods for detecting selection analyze the ratio of replacement and silent mutations using a binomial statistical analysis. However, these approaches have been criticized for low sensitivity. An alternative method is based on the analysis of lineage trees constructed from sets of clonally related Ig sequences. Several tree shape measures have been proposed as indicators of selection that can be statistically compared across cohorts. However, we show that tree shape analysis is confounded by underlying experimental factors that are difficult to control for in practice, including the sequencing depth and number of generations in each clone. Thus, although lineage tree shapes may reflect selection, their analysis alone is an unreliable measure of in vivo selection. To usefully capture the information provided by lineage trees, we propose a new method that applies the binomial statistical framework to mutations identified based on lineage tree structure. This hybrid method is able to detect selection with increased sensitivity in both simulated and experimental data sets. We anticipate that this approach will be especially useful in the analysis of large-scale Ig sequencing data sets generated by high-throughput sequencing technologies.
Examining learners’ perspective of taking a MOOC: reasons, excitement, and perception of usefulness

In recent years, massive open online Courses (MOOCs) as an online instruction format have attracted educators’ attention in higher education. While there are many news reports and blog entries about MOOCs, evidence-based research is still emerging. Research examining the learners’ perspective on taking a MOOC is scarce but very much needed. This study, using both quantitative and qualitative data, investigated participants’ reasons and excitement levels to take a MOOC and their perception of the usefulness of the course. The findings indicated that the majority of the participants were working professionals who sought to get opportunities and resources for their career development without the constraints of their geographical locations and time. Flexibility of the course schedule, credibility of the instructor, and quality of the materials are important factors for these individuals. The findings highlighted the importance of good pedagogies regardless if the platform is a MOOC, face-to-face, or other onl...
Mutation screening for JAK2V617F: when to order the test and how to interpret the results.

Abstract With the application of adequately sensitive tests, it is now becoming evident that more than 90% of patients with conventionally-defined polycythemia vera (PV) carry the somatic JAK2V617F mutation in their granulocytes. However, the specific mutation is also found in other classic and atypical myeloproliferative disorders (MPD), albeit at a lesser frequency. In contrast, JAK2V617F has not been reported in patients with either reactive myeloproliferation or lymphoid disorders. Therefore, mutation screening for JAK2V617F can be considered as a myeloid-specific clonality assay and it is diagnostically most useful in the evaluation of “polycythemia”.
Techniques for Obtaining Absorption Spectra on Intact Biological Samples

Absorption spectra can be obtained on a wide range of biological samples with little or no sample preparation by using a high sensitivity, low-noise spectrophotometer with the sample in close juxtaposition with the photocathode. An instrument designed for such measurements is described, and possible applications are discussed. The spectrophotometer is a single-beam recording unit using a double-prism monochromator, 100-watt tungsten source, end-window multiplier-type phototube and an X-Y recorder. The phototube is operated at a constant anode current and a logarithmic voltmeter measures the dynode voltage, providing a photometer which is linear with density change over an opticaldensity range of 8. The noise level for samples of low density is equivalent to an optical-density change of 0.002 with a response time of 1 second for full scale pen travel. Any part or all of the wavelength region from 200 to 1200 m? may be scanned with a wide choice of scanning speeds. Provision is included for electrical correction of system response to give a flat baseline characteristic for a selected region of the spectrum. This permits measurements at high sensitivity on samples with high scatter loss. Versatile sample mounting arrangements permit measurement of a wide range of materials. Liquids, powders, and homogenates are measured in sample cells of appropriate size. Tissue slices and solid samples are mounted on a metal plate with an aperture in the center for the transmitted light to reach the phototube.
Revisiting modal interface automata

Modern software systems are typically built of components that communicate through their external interfaces. A component's behavior can be effectively described using finite state automata-based formalisms (e.g., statecharts [5]). The basic formalism, labelled transition systems, describes the behavior of a component in terms of states and labeled transitions. The more advanced formalisms, such as modal transition systems and interface automata, extend LTS to incorporate additional information related to interface operation controllability — distinguishing between input, output, and internal actions — and the possible partiality of a component's specification — distinguishing between required and unknown (maybe) behaviors. Capturing the controllability and partiality aspects of a component's specification facilitates (1) checking interface compatibility, (2) checking whether one component can safely replace another component, and (3) checking whether one specification is a proper refinement of another specification. In this paper, we study the existing definitions of these three types of checks, and then exemplify their limitations in the context of modal interface automata (MIA); MIA is a class of component behavior specifications that incorporates both controllability and partiality information. We outline a set of enhancements to MIA as possible solutions to the identified limitations.
Mobility enhancement in surface channel SiGe PMOSFETs with HfO 2 gate dielectrics

We report for the first time drive current enhancement and higher mobilities than the universal mobility for SiO/sub 2/ on Si in compressively strained Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/-on-Si surface channel PMOSFETs with HfO/sub 2/ gate dielectrics, for gate lengths (L/sub G/) down to 180 nm. Thirty six percent drive current enhancement was achieved for Si/sub 0.8/Ge/sub 0.2/ channel PMOSFETs compared to Si PMOSFETs with HfO/sub 2/ gate dielectric. We demonstrate that using Si/sub 1-x/Ge/sub x/ in the channel may be one way to recover the mobility degradation due to the use of HfO/sub 2/ on Si.
Improved equalization for digital recording using nonlinear filtering and error confinement

In this work, an extended class-IV partial response (EPR4) equalizer for a digital recording channel is replaced by a nonlinear equalizer which is based on a neural network. It is shown that such a scheme has several decibels of signal-to-noise ratio gain compared to linear equalization, when the channel is corrupted by transition noise and media nonlinearity. An error confinement approach, as opposed to the conventional minimum mean square error approach, is shown to further enhance the performance of the nonlinear equalizer. >
Cost-effective carotid endarterectomy.

Background Carotid endarterectomy is the most common vascular procedure performed, with an annual cost of $1.2 billion. Efforts to control the cost associated with this procedure include limiting preoperative studies, avoiding admissions to the intensive care unit, and encouraging early postoperative discharge. Methods To determine our surgical results and the cost associated with this procedure, we reviewed our experience at a single hospital and compared our cost data with those of other local facilities. Results During an 18-month period we performed 65 carotid endarterectomies at one community hospital. The average per-patient hospital cost was $8,060, which was $3,510 less than the average cost at the other facilities in our city. The median length of postoperative stay in our hospital was 1 day. One patient died and there was 1 postoperative stroke. Conclusions Limited utilization of the intensive care unit and short postoperative stays reduced the overall hospital costs. Our 1.5% mortality and stroke rates demonstrate that these cost-saving measures can be implemented without adversely affecting patient outcome.
A comparative approach to using the diabetes prevention program to reduce diabetes risk in a worksite setting.

The rapidly increasing rate of non–insulin-dependent diabetes (NIDDM) among both market economy and developing countries is a worldwide health phenomenon. The number of diabetics worldwide has been projected to increase from 135 million in 1995 to 300 million in 2025. The purpose of this study was to examine the relative effectiveness of three different approaches to the implementation of the Diabetes Prevention Program, a standardized diabetes prevention curriculum, in various worksite organizations within a single community. The methods of implementation selected included an intensive one-on-one counseling approach, a support group meeting approach, and a passive transfer of information approach. The intervention was successful in creating significant mean improvements overall in the participants who completed the 26-week program as follows: (a) reduction in overall mean body weight and mean body mass index, (b) reduction in overall average mean arterial blood pressure, (c) reduction in overall mean dia...
Computation of transient scattering from electrically large structures using the plane wave time domain algorithm

Reducing the computational complexity of time domain integral equation (TDIE) schemes would yield a viable approach for analyzing transient scattering from electrically large structures. This paper illustrates the application of the plane wave time domain (PWTD) algorithm to the analysis of transient electromagnetic scattering from electrically large perfect conducting surface scatterers residing in free space. These algorithms complement classical marching-on-in-time (MOT) schemes for solving electric and magnetic field integral equations (EFIE, MFIE). Also, computational results illustrating the usefulness of these algorithms in analyzing transient scattering from electrically large structures are presented.
Perturbation of lipids and glucose metabolism associated with previous 2,4-D exposure: a cross-sectional study of NHANES III data, 1988-1994

Results from previous population studies showed that mortality rates from acute myocardial infarction and type-2 diabetes during the 1980s and 1990s in rural, agricultural counties of Minnesota, Montana, North and South Dakota, were higher in counties with a higher level of spring wheat farming than in counties with lower levels of this crop. Spring wheat, one of the major field crops in these four states, was treated for 85% or more of its acreage with chlorophenoxy herbicides. In the current study NHANES III data were reviewed for associations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) exposure, one of the most frequently used chlorophenoxy herbicides, with risk factors that are linked to the pathogenesis of acute myocardial infarction and type-2 diabetes, such as dyslipidemia and impaired glucose metabolism. To investigate the toxicity pattern of chlorophenoxy herbicides, effects of a previous 2,4-D exposure were assessed by comparing levels of lipids, glucose metabolism, and thyroid stimulating hormone in healthy adult NHANES III subjects with urinary 2,4-D above and below the level of detection, using linear regression analysis. The analyses were conducted for all available subjects and for two susceptible subpopulations characterized by high glycosylated hemoglobin (upper 50th percentile) and low thyroxine (lower 50th percentile). Presence of urinary 2,4-D was associated with a decrease of HDL levels: 8.6% in the unadjusted data (p-value = 0.006), 4.8% in the adjusted data (p-value = 0.08), and 9% in the adjusted data for the susceptible subpopulation with low thyroxine (p-value = 0.02). An effect modification of the inverse triglycerides-HDL relation was observed in association with 2,4-D. Among subjects with low HDL, urinary 2,4-D was associated with increased levels of triglycerides, insulin, C-peptide, and thyroid stimulating hormone, especially in the susceptible subpopulations. In contrast, subjects with high HDL did not experience adverse 2,4-D associated effects. The results indicate that exposure to 2,4-D was associated with changes in biomarkers that, based on the published literature, have been linked to risk factors for acute myocardial infarction and type-2 diabetes.
Kinetic pathway investigations of three‐component photoinitiator systems for visible‐light activated free radical polymerizations

Three-component photoinitiator systems generally include a light-absorbing photosensitizer (PS), an electron donor, and an electron acceptor. To investigate the key factors involved with visible-light activated free radical polymerizations involving three-component photoinitiators and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, we used thermodynamic feasibility and kinetic considerations to study photopolymerizations initiated with either rose bengal or fluorescein as the PS. The Rehm-Weller equation was used to verify the thermodynamic feasibility for the photo-induced electron transfer reaction. It was concluded that key kinetic factors for efficient visible-light activated initiation process are summarized in two ways: (1) to retard back electron transfer and recombination reaction steps and (2) to use a secondary reaction step for consuming dye-based radical and regenerating the original PS (dye). Using the thermodynamic feasibility and kinetic data, we suggest three different kinetic mechanisms, which are (i) photo-reducible series mechanism, (ii) photo-oxidizable series mechanism, and (iii) parallel-series mechanism. Because the photo-oxidizable series mechanisms most efficiently allow the key kinetic factors, this kinetic pathway showed the highest conversion and rate of polymerization. The kinetic data measured by near-IR and photo-differential scanning calorimeter verified that the photo-oxidizable series mechanism provides the most efficient kinetic pathway in the visible-light activated free radical polymerizations.
Experimental study of combustion characteristics of nanoscale metal and metal oxide additives in biofuel (ethanol)

An experimental investigation of the combustion behavior of nano-aluminum (n-Al) and nano-aluminum oxide (n-Al2O3) particles stably suspended in biofuel (ethanol) as a secondary energy carrier was conducted. The heat of combustion (HoC) was studied using a modified static bomb calorimeter system. Combustion element composition and surface morphology were evaluated using a SEM/EDS system. N-Al and n-Al2O3 particles of 50- and 36-nm diameters, respectively, were utilized in this investigation. Combustion experiments were performed with volume fractions of 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10% for n-Al, and 0.5, 1, 3, and 5% for n-Al2O3. The results indicate that the amount of heat released from ethanol combustion increases almost linearly with n-Al concentration. N-Al volume fractions of 1 and 3% did not show enhancement in the average volumetric HoC, but higher volume fractions of 5, 7, and 10% increased the volumetric HoC by 5.82, 8.65, and 15.31%, respectively. N-Al2O3 and heavily passivated n-Al additives did not participate in combustion reactively, and there was no contribution from Al2O3 to the HoC in the tests. A combustion model that utilized Chemical Equilibrium with Applications was conducted as well and was shown to be in good agreement with the experimental results.
A comparison of work-life balance perspectives of future business professionals in the USA and Germany

Finding a balance between allocating one’s time for work and non-work activities is a challenge people face around the world. The global marketplace and advances in technology have played a role in requiring professionals to allocate more time to improving their job skills and knowledge in order to stay competitive. With this increase in time spent on work-related activities, there is growing interest by professionals to address work-life balance. Research has shown that employee satisfaction, productivity and ethical behaviour may be positively affected by facilitating the work-life balance of employees. This study extends prior research on work-life balance by comparing perspectives of future business professionals in the USA and Germany. The findings provide insight into the global nature of the work-life balance issue, specifically, the similarities and differences in work-life balance perspectives in different countries among the next generation who are on the brink of entering the workforce.
Globalization, The State and Public Administration: A Theoretical Analysis with Policy Implications for Developmental States

This article discusses the relationship between globalization, the state, and public administration, with implications for developmental states. Using a political economy analysis, globalization is discussed as the latest dynamic change in the context of the continuity within the process of surplus accumulation by corporate capitalism at the global level, a phenomenon with far reaching implications for the modern state, governance, and public administration. First, the context of change and continuity is briefly discussed, followed by a presentation of several theoretical perspectives on, and meanings of, globalization as defined by different people from different disciplines. Then, the causes and consequences of globalization are discussed with implications for the state and public administration. Finally, a number of policy choices are suggested in response to globalization by developmental states, with another discussion on the changing character and role of the state under globalization with implications for the state and public administration worldwide.
C-reactive protein as a predictor of infectious morbidity with premature rupture of membranes

The management of patients with premature rupture of membranes (PROM) poses one of the most serious dilemmas in obstetrics since PROM significantly increases the likelihood of prematurity and serious perinatal infection. Early infection is not reliably predicted nor detected by standard laboratory parameters. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were assayed along with white blood cell count, differential, and temperature course in patients with PROM and controls. Elevated CRP very accurately divided patients with evidence of infectious morbidity from those without such evidence (p < 0.001). In 109 patients there were 11 false negatives and no false positives. In 14 of 20 patients followed with serial comparisons who developed morbidity, CRP became elevated at least 12 hours prior to any other parameter measured. Changes in the other six patients were concurrent. The results suggest that CRP may be a reliable, early predictor of infectious morbidity and thus may be of benefit in the selective management of patients with PROM.