cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sources, detectors, and wavequide components for OEICs

Current research on optoeletronics is reviewed with particular attention given to thin film devices from II-VI and III-V compound semiconductors. Major achievements made since 1988 include development of world-class growth facilities for ZnSe and III-V compound semiconductor epitaxial layers and processing of these materials into devices with world-record performance characteristics.© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Advancing Sustainable Development of Infrastructure Systems

Sustainability is a concept born from the global movement toward better management of resources. A 1987 United Nations World Congress document ~called the Brundtland Report! defined sustainability as ‘‘management of resources such that current generations are able to meet their needs without affecting the ability of future generations to meet their needs.’’ This definition of sustainability has led experts in many disciplines—technical and social—to call for an increased concern for environmental and resource management within their fields. However, practical interpretations of this definition are still largely missing. These interpretations are mostly being advanced by academic researchers and have yet to be incorporated into corporate and governmental structures. Indeed, leaders in engineering, chemistry, economics, and philosophy have translated this concept of sustainability into a call for action. The field of civil and environmental engineering, while not a primary player in the sustainability movement, has not been idle. The ASCE Committee on Sustainability was formed in 2001 and includes a cross section of ASCE’s membership profile. For the past 2 years, there has been one session at the ASCE National Conference on the topic of sustainability in civil engineering, including discussions on the role of sustainability in civil and environmental engineering education. The 2003 ASCE Construction Research Congress had two sessions on sustainability, and more are planned for the 2005 meeting. The May 2004 ASCE Structures Congress included one session on economic and environmental life-cycle assessment. These efforts are a good professional starting point, but should not be seen as sufficient to enable the levels of change needed. The National Science Foundation—a primary source of funding for engineering research in the United States—has been supportive of sustainable engineering projects, including the Division of Civil and Mechanical Systems in the Engineering Directorate. Programs from the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA have also been supportive of this area over the past decade. Current national environmental priorities are not necessarily in line with global sustainability goals. For example, United States policy is currently dubious of the implications and causes of global climate change from greenhouse gas emissions and atmospheric concentrations. The United States is not a player in the official global Kyoto Protocol implementation to reduce emissions to below 1990 levels. This could have the undesirable side effect of undermining our leadership positions in global environmental management, as well as in the development of environmental control technologies. Europe and Asia are poised to take over these leadership positions without further American efforts
Rethinking portal design: a case study on renewable energy research

The usability of Portal design has been criticized in previous studies. Portals tend to contain an overwhelming amount of information in a difficult to navigate form. This paper will present a new method of organizing a portal for supporting groups of researchers. The architecture for the portal is open and has been adopted for use on several different projects. It is illustrated in a recently constructed portal for renewable energy researchers in Florida. The interface design model is based around the popular "app" concept that has arisen on mobile devices such as the iPhone. This is argued to be an efficient way to modularize information on Portals as well as mobile devices.
Superhydrophobic Hybrid Inorganic–Organic Thiol-ene Surfaces Fabricated via Spray-Deposition and Photopolymerization

We report a simple and versatile method for the fabrication of superhydrophobic inorganic–organic thiol-ene coatings via sequential spray-deposition and photopolymerization under ambient conditions. The coatings are obtained by spray-deposition of UV-curable hybrid inorganic–organic thiol-ene resins consisting of pentaerythritol tetra(3-mercaptopropionate) (PETMP), triallyl isocyanurate (TTT), 2,4,6,8-tetramethyl-2,4,6,8-tetravinylcyclotetrasiloxane (TMTVSi), and hydrophobic fumed silica nanoparticles. The spray-deposition process and nanoparticle agglomeration/dispersion provide surfaces with hierarchical morphologies exhibiting both micro- and nanoscale roughness. The wetting behavior, dependent on the concentration of TMTVSi and hydrophobic silica nanoparticles, can be varied over a broad range to ultimately provide coatings with high static water contact angles (>150°), low contact angle hysteresis, and low roll off angles (<5°). The cross-linked thiol-ene coatings are solvent resistant, stable at low...
Construction of the Hectospec: 300 optical fiber-fed spectrograph for the converted MMT

The Hectospec consists of a robotic positioner that will position 300 optical fibers at the f/5 focus of the converted MMT and a bench mounted moderate-dispersion spectrograph. Hectospec will be the first wide-field instrument to be used at the converted MMT and is now under construction at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. Commissioning at the converted MMT is scheduled for mid 1999, shortly after first light at the f/5 focus. The innovative features of the instrument are described, emphasizing recent developments.
Architecting the next generation DCN for flexibility and scale with optics and SDN

Recent trends in cloud computing call for rethinking the Data Center Network (DCN) design for huge capacities, tremendous scale, and high levels of flexibility. On the other hand, business and environmental sustainability concerns call for improving the cost effectiveness and power efficiency. DCN architecture proposed by EU project COSIGN stands up for these challenges by combining optical technologies for data plane benefits, Software Defined Networking (SDN) for control plane programmability, and orchestration software for advanced network service provisioning.
Transmission line modeling with explicit grounding representation

Abstract This paper presents a new model of an overhead transmission line for electromagnetic transient computations. The unique feature of the model is the explicit representation of the tower grounding configuration and terminal substation grounds. Other properties of the model are: (1) accurate frequency dependent parameter representation from DC to several MHz; (2) explicit modeling of line asymmetries; and (3) high numerical efficiency. The model implementation is based on the solution of the transmission line differential equations resulting in a set of step response functions, forming a matrix. The step response matrix is utilized in a time domain simulation of electric power networks by a linear convolution scheme. The transmission line model is validated with actual system test data. The model is useful for computing the ground potential rise of transmission towers due to lightning or switching surges, insulation stress, etc. Typical applications are described in the paper.
Quantum system in contact with a thermal environment: Rigorous treatment of a simple model

We study the quantum dynamics of a particle of massM in an external potentialV(Q), interacting with a simple model environment—a harmonic chain of 2N particles with massm and spring constantk. The classical version of this model was studied by Rubin and is equivalent to standard models of a particle interacting with a phonon bath. Settingm=m*/L andk=k*L, we prove that for a suitable class of potentialsV and initial statesω0, the time evolution of the massM particle converges, whenN → ∞ andL → ∞, to the time evolution governed by the Quantum Langevin Equation (QLE) which has been found by Ford, Kac and Mazur. Furthermore we show that, for this class of potentials, the QLE has a unique solution for all positive times, such solution can be expressed as a convergent expansion in the deviation ofV(Q) from a harmonic potential. The equilibrium properties of the particle with massM can be expressed in terms of an integral, over path space, with a Gaussian measure which has mean zero and covariance proportional to\([ - \Delta + \eta h/M\sqrt { - \Delta } ]^{ - 1} \); where\(\eta = 2\sqrt {km} \) is the friction constant, andh is the Plancks' constant (divided by 2π).
Analysis of short circuit and inrush transients in a current transformer using a field-circuit coupled FE formulation

Abstract The existing models based on the lumped-circuit approach consider the constant leakage inductance during transient simulations. However, leakage inductance of the current transformer (CT) may not remain constant. In fact, it may vary with the degree of saturation of the core. During severe saturation conditions, leakage inductance variation in fact may result in significant difference between the calculated and the measured secondary currents. In this work, a nonlinear, field-circuit coupled finite element model of a current transformer (CT) is presented. The model considers the variation in leakage inductance during the simulation of transient conditions. Moreover, since geometry of the transformer was taken into account, it was possible to estimate forces associated with the short-circuit current. Hysteresis characteristic of the core was taken into account by using Jiles–Atherton model in conjunction with fixed-point iteration method. The formulation was realized using a code developed in MATLAB and implemented for a 69 kV, 200/5 A current transformer. The normal operation and other cases such as short-circuit, and transformer sympathetic inrush current through the primary of the CT are presented. These cases demonstrate modeling flexibility of the field-circuit coupled formulation.
The sterile-male technique against tsetse flies, Glossina spp.

Simpson (1958) discussed the relationship between the biological characteristics of the genus Glossina and the use of the sterile-male technique in the control of this vector of trypanosomiasis, as did Knipling in an informal report in 1963 on Practical Role of the Sterility Principle for Tsetse Fly Eradication in WHO/Vector Control/27. Knipling estimated that an initial overflooding ratio of sterile to wild males of 3: 1 with successively smaller releases could eradicate a low-density population of flies in 12 months (Table 1) at a cost of about 125/mile2, even if the sterilized males cost as much as 5 cents each. With larger populations, other methods would have to be used to reduce the density before the releases of sterile males. Also, Knipling (1964) emphasized the economic advantage that would be gained by reduction in the total number of sterile males required if their release were preceded by a single application of a nonpersistent insecticide which would eliminate most of the adult population. When populations cover a wide area, simultaneous treatment of the entire infested area might not be feasible. A more realistic approach (Table 2) could be to systemically expand small control areas along a common front (Dame 1968).
An economic comparison of female sterilization of hysteroscopic tubal occlusion with laparoscopic bilateral tubal ligation.

Abstract Background This study compares the expected 5-year costs for permanent sterilization in women between nonincisional hysteroscopic tubal occlusion with the Essure® system performed in an office setting and laparoscopic bilateral tubal ligation (LBTL). Study Design An economic decision tree is used to predict outcomes and costs to compare these two procedures from a US Medicaid perspective over a 5-year time horizon. Results Expected costs are $2367 for Essure® and $3545 for LBTL (Essure® saves $1178 or 33% of LBTL costs). Sensitivity analyses show Essure® has lower expected costs across all values considered. If the cost for a LBTL procedure were to decrease by 20% and the cost for Essure® to increase by 20%, Essure® would have still have lower expected costs. Conclusion Office-based sterilization for women using Essure® can lead to substantial cost savings over 5 years compared to LBTL. This conclusion is robust to varying analytic inputs.
Understanding Opioid Reward

Opioids are the most potent analgesics in clinical use; however, their powerful rewarding properties can lead to addiction. The scientific challenge is to retain analgesic potency while limiting the development of tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Both rewarding and analgesic actions of opioids depend upon actions at the mu opioid (MOP) receptor. Systemic opioid reward requires MOP receptor function in the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) which contains dopaminergic neurons. VTA dopaminergic neurons are implicated in various aspects of reward including reward prediction error, working memory, and incentive salience. It is now clear that subsets of VTA neurons have different pharmacological properties and participate in separate circuits. The degree to which MOP receptor agonists act on different VTA circuits depends upon the behavioral state of the animal, which can be altered by manipulations such as food deprivation or prior exposure to MOP receptor agonists.
Treatment of “Don't-Know” Responses in Contingent Valuation Surveys: A Random Valuation Model

Abstract This paper provides a utility-theoretic interpretation of “Don't-Know” (DK) responses in contingent valuation surveys using a referendum elicitation procedure. The random valuation model in this paper assumes that each respondent of a contingent valuation survey has an implicit valuation distribution, rather than a single true value as traditionally assumed, in his/her mind. If an offered referendum bid is not clearly different from the mean value of one's valuation distribution, the respondent may give a DK answer to the CV referendum question. Based on this model, a maximum likelihood procedure is proposed for estimating respondents' willingness to pay for a nonmarket good with referendum contingent valuation data which include DK responses. An empirical illustration of this estimation procedure is also provided.
Dynamic programming approaches to the multiple criteria knapsack problem

We study the integer multiple criteria knapsack problem and propose dynamic-programming-based approaches to finding all the nondominated solutions. Different and more complex models are discussed, including the binary multiple criteria knapsack problem, problems with more than one constraint, and multiperiod as well as time-dependent models. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 47: 57–76, 2000
Clinical and epidemiological survey and analysis of the first case of human infection with avian influenza A(H7N9) virus in Hangzhou, China

To investigate and report on the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the first case of human infection with avian influenza A(H7N9) virus in Hangzhou, China. A field epidemiological survey was used to study the first case in Hangzhou. The patient was a 39-year-old male chef with a history of exposure to a farm product market and to poultry prior to the onset of disease on 15 March 2013. He had diarrhea, chills, pyrexia, and intermittent cough with freshly red foamy bloody sputum early in his disease. His fever > 39 °C continued for a week with rapid progression. Computed tomography findings showed extensive bilateral consolidation, followed by multiorgan failure. The patient died on the morning of 27 March. His infection was eventually confirmed 1 week later on 3 April. Flu-like symptoms including fever and cough were found in 46 of his 138 close contacts. This was the first case of human infection with avian influenza A(H7N9) virus in Hangzhou. None of the close contacts had onset of the disease. The case patient’s condition progressed rapidly. The source of infection might be his exposure to the farm product market, but the mode of exposure remains unclear.
Online nonpreemptive scheduling of equal-length jobs on two identical machines

We consider the nonpreemptive scheduling of two identical machines for jobs with equal processing times yet arbitrary release dates and deadlines. Our objective is to maximize the number of jobs completed by their deadlines. Using standard nomenclature, this problem is denoted as P2 | pj = p,rj | Σ Ūj. The problem is known to be polynomially solvable in an offline setting.In an online variant of the problem, a job's existence and parameters are revealed to the scheduler only upon that job's release date. We present an online deterministic algorithm for the problem and prove that it is 3/2-competitive. A simple lower bound shows that this is the optimal deterministic competitiveness.
The role of ERG current in pacemaking and bursting in dopamine neurons

Dopamine (DA) neurons exhibit regular, pacemaking firing in the range of 1-8 Hz in in vitro preparations and are observed to produce bursts of action potentials at much higher frequencies in in vivo studies. The model used in the present study expands on our previously published compartmental DA neuron model [1] and incorporates improved descriptions for the L-type Ca2+[2], Na [3] and ERG currents [4]. The approach is to calibrate the model using various types of data acquired in vitro in order to confidently model and explain the effects of drug application in vivo. One validation of the new model dynamics is its ability, without further calibration, to simulate a novel type of bursting observed in vitro when the SK current is blocked. In this type of bursting, the silent phase of the burst is a depolarized plateau, and the active phase consists of spiking with increasing frequency leading into a brief but intense burst of spike terminating in depolarization block [5]. Here we focus on the role of the Ether-a-go-go-related gene (ERG) K+ current. The ERG current has the unusual characteristic that channels inactivate faster than they activate, and upon recovery from inactivation they pass through the open state before they enter the closed state. Our model predicts that enough of these channels remain in the open state during pacemaking to slow the frequency of pacemaking, even though there is not sufficient activation of these channels at hyperpolarized potentials to affect the input resistance. Indeed, we have shown that blocking the ERG current in a slice preparation with either E4031 or the toxin rBeKm-1 dose-dependently increases the spontaneous firing rate by 50% without significantly altering the membrane resistance. The model includes background noise levels and can faithfully reproduce the increased precision of DA cell firing when the ERG current is blocked. Furthermore, we have conducted dynamic clamp experiments in which bursts are evoked by injecting a square pulse of virtual NMDA conductance in the soma. Blocking the ERG current shortens the burst because the spike frequency under these conditions is also increased. As a result, the burst is terminated as the cell enters into depolarization block sooner than in the absence of this current. In contrast, local application of E-4031 via passive diffusion from an extracellular recording electrode in vivo caused a decline in the number of spike doublets observed and a concomitant increase in bursts comprised of 3 to 5 spikes per burst. The difference in the effect of ERG block under these two conditions is likely due to the difference between evoking a single burst using the dynamic clamp, and the burst dynamics in vivo that are regulated by the interactions between the L-type Ca2+, NMDA, SK current and ERG currents. The model also predicts a role for the ERG current in termination of depolarized plateaus [6] that follow spike bursts.
Concentration of glucose in new choroidal cerebrospinal fluid of the rabbit.

IT is characteristic of mixed cerebrospinal fluid, sampled in the steady state, that the concentration of glucose is deficient compared with plasma. Yet the fluid appears grossly to be neither a source nor a sink in relation to the sugar in the brain because regional differences in concentration have not been disclosed by successive sampling1, or by analyses of fluids taken from several sites2. In unsteady conditions after elevation of plasma glucose3, or during ventriculo-cisternal perfusion with an initially glucose free solution4, the flow of glucose into the system is by a facilitated mechanism and at a rate faster than could be accounted for by the contribution through choroid plexuses. Thus the concentration of glucose in fluid might be rapidly imposed by the brain if new fluid were formed with a composition different from that of mixed fluid.
The Relation of the Maronites of Lebanon to the Mardaites and al-Jarājima

IT should be admitted from the outset that the identification and the association of these three names with each other is a thorny question which has caused a great deal of controversy since the last century. It would be easier, of course, for us to follow the conclusions of eminent orientalists like Theodor Noeldekel and Father Henri Lammens2 (d. 1937) as well as those eastern writers like Father AnastaseMarie al-Karmali3 (d. 1947) and consider that the Mardaites of the Byzantine historians and al-Jarajima of the Arab historians are identical. It would be like-wise easier to agree with Professor M. Canard, who, in his article titled "Djaradjima" in the new edition of the Encyclopedia of Islam,4 follows the traditional accepted theory that the Mardaites and al-Jarajima are identical. In fact, this question would not have been so complex if it were not for the theory advanced by old and new Maronite writers including Joseph Assemani (d. 1768) that the Mardaites were ancestors of the present Maronite inhabitants of Lebanon.' A -modern Maronite writer, the Bishop Yuisuf al-Dibs (d. 1907), zealously defended the theory that the Mardaites were the ancestors of the Maronites, yet denied that the Mardaites and al-Jarajima were identical.6 We shall have recourse to this view later. The problem is, therefore, complex and requires a definition of these three -names in order to determine their degree of identification or association with each other. The first historian to mention the Mardaites was Theophanes. He relates that in the year 669 the Mardaites attacked Lebanon and occupied portions of the country stretching from the Black Mountain all the way up to the holy city (Jerusalem). The Mardaites also occupied the mountain tops of Lebanon and were joined by many slaves, both captives and natives, so that within a very short time they increased to many thousands. Theophanes continues that when Mutawiya (the Caliph Mutawiya ibn Abi Sufyan) and his advisors heard of these Mardaites, they were much afraid believing that the Byzan-tine State was protected by divine providence and sent delegates to the Byzan-
The Skeletal Subsystem as an Integrative Physiology Paradigm

Homeostatic bone remodeling depends on pre- cise regulation of osteoblast-osteoclast coupling through intricate endocrine, immune, neuronal, and mechanical factors. The osteoblast-osteoclast model of bone physiology with layers of regulatory complexity can be investigated as a component of a local skeletal subsystem or as a part of a complete whole-body system. In this review, we flip the traditional investigative paradigm of scientific experimen- tation ("bottom-top research" )t o a"top-bottom" approach using systems biology. We first establish the intricacies of the two-cell model at the molecular signaling level. We then provide, on a systems level, an integrative physiologic approach involving many recognized organ-level subsys- tems having direct and/or indirect effects on bone remodel- ing. Lastly, a hypothetical model of bone remodeling based on frequency and amplitude regulatory mechanisms is presented. It is hoped that by providing a thorough model of skeletal homeostasis, future progress can be made in researching and treating skeletal morbidities.
Mathematical analysis of stress relaxation in articular cartilage during compression

Abstract Stress relaxation experiments in articular cartilage studies give rise to an identification problem (or an inverse problem). The equation is a nonlinear PDE of parabolic type. Estimates of the solution curve are obtained, including asymptotic properties and upper and lower bounds. The general character of the mathematical results agree qualitatively, in all respects, with the experimental results.
Stress-Intensity Factor and Fracture Cross-Sectional Shape Predictions From a Three-Dimensional Model for Hydraulically Induced Fractures

An efficient three-dimensional (3D) fracture model was developed that can be applied to arbitrary planar cracks with Mode 1 stress singularity at the fracture tip. Surface stress, thermally induced stress, and poroelasticity were included. In addition, the elasticity constants can be varied between elements. A parameter study was conducted with the model to evaluate the stress-intensity factor, the evolving shape of the fracture, and fracture width. The study includes the borehole effect, fracture migration, fracture barriers, fracture cross-sectional shape, fracture front shape and its stress-intensity factor, and evaluation of the validity of some simplified models. Further work on the details of the theory, algorithm, accuracy, and efficiency of the 3D fracture model is in progress.
The Response of the Benthic Nepheloid Layer to a Downwelling Event

Abstract Time series observations of water temperature, current velocity, and water transparency were made at three elevations at a mooring in southwestern Lake Ontario over a 14-day period. Although a strong downwelling event occurred during the deployment, there was no indication of either local sediment resuspension or of downslope transport of suspended material. Our observations, when combined with those of Hawley and Lesht (1995), indicate that material is not supplied to the benthic nepheloid layer by either local resuspension or offshore transport during the stratified period. Although several authors have suggested that the maintenance of the benthic nepheloid layer during the stratified period requires the periodic supply of additional material after it is formed, the sources of this material are not well known. Some material is most likely supplied by the settling of material from the epilimnion, but an additional—as yet unidentified—source seems to be needed to explain the observed changes in both the thickness and the concentration of material suspended in the benthic nepheloid layer.
Phonological priming by masked nonword primes in the lexical decision task.

Abstract The pseudohomophone test is whether the processing of a word target can be facilitated by a masked homophonic nonword prime independent of the visual similarity between them. The significance of the test is in respect to the hypothesized contributions of phonological and orthographic codes within dual-route theories. Using the mask–prime–target presentation sequence and prime durations typical of form priming experiments (e.g., 57 ms), we found that pseudohomophone primes (e.g., KLIP) reduced lexical decision times to targets in dense neighborhoods (e.g.,clip) relative to visually similar control primes (e.g., PLIP). We also found superior pseudohomophonic priming at a prime duration (29 ms) previously considered too brief for the emergence of phonological codes. The basis for these successful pseudohomophone tests in English was overall phonological similarity of prime and target rather than common onsets, rimes, or number of overlapping letters. Discussion focused on the need for models of visual word recognition in which phonology assumes the leading role.
Tumor-dendritic cell fusion as a basis for cancer immunotherapy

Objective To establish the basis for use of allogeneic dendritic-tumor fusion cells. Study design Fusion cells were created by electrofusion. We used 2 allogeneic murine tumor lines (D5 and 4T1) that were virally transduced to express the antigen (β-galactosidase) as a surrogate tumor marker. Results Cross-immunization was achieved with irradiated allogenic tumor cells. Successful electrofusion of dendritic cells and tumor cells was confirmed by using fluorescence-activated cell sorting and cytospin. Significant responses were shown in immunized mice against tumor challenge and established 3-day pulmonary metastasis with fusion cells. Conclusions Allogeneic tumor sharing a common tumor antigen can immunize against syngeneic tumor challenge. Fusion cells showed successful immunization against tumor challenge and showed regression of 3-day established pulmonary metastasis. Significance These preclinical studies provide evidence that an allogenic tumor-dendritic cell fusion vaccine is a valid approach for head and neck cancer immunotherapy.
Transient-response induction detectors for magnetic monopoles: First operation at 78 K

We have built and tested a small nonsuperconducting magnetic-monopole detector based on Faraday induction. The detector operates at liquid-nitrogen temperature (78 K) and requires only simple steel shielding. It is sensitive to the passage of a Dirac monopole and has uniform velocity response down to the escape velocity from Earth (vc = 3.8 x 10/sup -5/). It consists of a highly resonant copper coil with a simple field-effect-transistor (FET) amplifier, followed by an optimal filter to extract the signal. Measurements of the signal-to-noise ratio agree with calculations for the transient response induced by a monopole on the background of thermal noise. The detector was used to derive a weak upper limit on the magnetic monopole flux. We present a general analysis of such transient response detectors, and discuss the possibility of using high-T/sub c/ superconducting loops and FET amplifiers to build a very large array for magnetic-monopole searches sensitive at the Parker limit
Dust Hazard Management in the Outer Solar System

Most robotic missions to the outer solar system must grapple with the hazards posed by the dusty rings of the gas giants. Early assessments of these hazards led simply to ring avoidance due to insufficient data and high uncertainties on the dust population present in such rings. Recent approaches, principal among them the Cassini dust hazard management strategy, provide useful results from detailed modeling of spacecraft vulnerabilities and dust hazard regions, which along with the range of mission trajectories are used to to assess the risks posed by each passage through a zone of potential hazard. This paper shows the general approach used to implement the analysis for Cassini, with recommendations for future outer planet missions.
The mathematics of halftoning

This paper describes some mathematical aspects of halftoning in digital printing. Halftoning is the technique of rendering a continuous range of colors using only a few discrete ones. There are two major classes of methods: dithering and error diffusion. Some discussion is presented concerning the method of dithering, but the main emphasis is on error diffusion.
DSM-III personality disorder in agoraphobia. II. changes with treatment

Abstract Thirty-three agoraphobia with panic patients completed the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire (a self-rating scale designed to assess the Axis II personality disorders from the DSM-III) before and after 16 weeks of combined pharmacological and behavioral treatment. The most consistent finding was the substantial reduction, compared with pretreatment values, on several personality variables, including the number of personality diagnoses assigned, the distribution of traits in the sample, and the number of items endorsed in each personality category; this finding suggests that symptomatic improvement in agoraphobic patients with treatment is accompanied by improvement in personality functioning. However, some personality traits (avoidant, histrionic) were found to be more enduring, whereas dependent traits were more reactive to treatment. Further, investigation of the relationship between personality and treatment outcome revealed that 75% of patients with low initial personality traits were responders compared with 25% of high personality traits, which suggests that personality factors may have prognostic significance in the treatment of panic disorder patients.
Counterfactuals, graphical causal models and potential outcomes: response to Lindquist and Sobel.

Abstract Lindquist and Sobel claim that the graphical causal models they call “agnostic” do not imply any counterfactual conditionals. They doubt that “causal effects” can be discovered using graphical causal models typical of SEMs, DCMs, Bayes nets, Granger causal models, etc. Each of these claims is false or exaggerated. They recommend instead that investigators adopt the “potential outcomes” framework. The potential outcomes framework is an obstacle rather than an aid to discovering causal relations in fMRI contexts.
A methodology for constructing communication protocols with multiple concurrent functions

A methodology is presented for the construction of communication protocols which perform several distinct functions simultaneously. The construction of such a multi-function protocol consists of three steps: (1) the development of component protocols for the different functions, (2) the integration of component protocols into a merged protocol, and (3) the specification of operational relationship among the component protocols. The conditions required for the resulting merged protocol to retain the safety properties, such as freedom from unspecified receptions, freedom from deadlocks, and boundedness, of the component protocols are discussed. The methodology is simple and facilitates the reuse of existing protocols. Two examples are given to illustrate its usage: a full-duplex data transfer protocol and another data transfer protocol with pipelining and flow control.
Recurrent non-0:1 Vibrio Cholerae Bacteremia in a Patient With Multiple Myeloma

Background. Episodes of bacteremia with non-0:1 Vibrio cholerae are rarely reported, even though the organism is endemic along the Gulf Coast of the United States. Recurrent episodes of bacteremia with non-0:1 V. cholerae are described even more rarely. A patient is reported who had multiple myeloma and experienced two episodes of bacteremia with non-0:1 V. cholerae. Methods. Hospital records and the medical literature were reviewed, and the organism was serotyped by the Alabama State Laboratory. Results. The patient had no prodromal illnesses or diarrhea with either episode of bacteremia. Treatment with empiric antibiotic therapy resulted in successful resolution of his bacteremia, which is fatal in almost 50% of reported cases in patients with malignant neoplasms. Conclusions. This is the first reported case of non-Oil V. cholerae bacteremia occurring in a patient with multiple myeloma. Both his initial episode and a second episode of bacteremia responded to broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are used as empiric therapy for patients with hematologic malignancies and fever. Emphasis is placed on the paucity of clinical manifestations and the need for empiric therapy for non-0:1 V. cholerae infection in patients with hematologic malignancies. Cancer 1993; 72:105–107.
Crise mondiale, emplois et protection sociale

Resume. Les interets nationaux conditionnent les reactions a la crise financiere mondiale et aggravent l'effondrement de la demande. La resurgence du protectionnisme, le renflouement des banques et les plans nationaux de relance distordent la concurrence et les incitations au detriment des pays en developpement, de l'indispensable protection sociale et d'une reprise rapide. Mettant en garde contre la sous-estimation du potentiel de destruction d'emplois de la crise, l'auteur plaide pour un plan de relance mondial, une revision des paradigmes economiques et des politiques reglementaires, l'aide aux pays en developpement, un FMI moins intrusif et plus de protection sociale, stabilisateur automatique de l'economie.
Evaluation of the erythrocyte protoporphyrin test as a screen for elevated blood lead levels.

To study the effect of lowering the definition of an elevated blood lead level on the performance of the erythrocyte protoporphyrin screening test and the number of children who would require follow-up, we collected laboratory data from a screening program. The estimated sensitivity of an erythrocyte protoporphyrin level ≥35 μ g/dl for identifying children with elevated blood lead levels was 73% when we used 1985 Centers for Disease Control guidelines (elevated blood lead level ≥25 μ g/dl). Eight percent of the tests showed positive results. When we redefined an elevated blood lead level as ≥15 μ g/dl, the sensitivity estimate was reduced to 37% and the number of positive test results increased fourfold.
A new technique for mapping epitope specificities of monoclonal antibodies using quasi-elastic light scattering spectroscopy.

Abstract Quasi-elastic light scaterring (QLS) was used to determine relative epitope specificities of a group of anti-bovine serum albumin (BSA) monoclonal antibodies (MAb). QLS is a non-invasive technique which can determine the mean size and size distributions of macromolecular scatters by analysis of the fluctuations in the intensity of laser light scattering. When two MAbs are mixed together with antigen. QLS detects to complex formation which results from the Ag-Ab reaction, and can easily distinguish between the large complexes formed by interaction of non-competitive MAbs and the smaller complexes formed by competitive MAbs. In this report, the competitive or non-competitive behavior of six anti-BSA MAbs were assessed by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and QLS analysis. The results obtained by QLS analysis confirmed the RNA findings indicating that the six MAbs examined can be categorized into three distinct, non-interacting groups. QLS analysis represents a simple, and extremely rapid technique for epitope mapping studies.
Calretinin distribution in the thalamus of the rat: immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization histochemical analyses.

Abstract The distribution of calretinin-containing cells was examined by in situ hybridization histochemistry and compared with the immunohistochemical mapping of calretinin in the thalamus of the rat. Results revealed a close correspondence between the immunohistochemical localization of cell bodies and the messenger RNA label produced by the calretinin oligonucleotide probe. Calretinin cells were most prominent in the midline (paraventricular, reuniens, rhomboid) and intralaminar (central medial, paracentral) nuclei and in a group of cells along the rostral central gray which appeared continuous with the caudal extent of the midline nuclei. A subpopulation of calretinin cell bodies was also identified in the reticular nucleus. The mediorostral lateral posterior nucleus, subparafascicular, lateral geniculate and habenular nuclei also contained calretinin messenger RNA probe label. In contrast, no positive cells were found in the anterior, ventral or posterior thalamic nuclei. The distribution of calretinin cells did not correspond directly with that of other histochemical markers. Thus, the in situ hybridization histochemical and immunohistochemical results revealed calretinin as a unique identifying marker for distinct sets of thalamic neurons.
Squeeze: numerical-precision-optimized volume rendering

This paper discusses how to squeeze volume rendering into as few bits per operation as possible while still retaining excellent image quality. For each of the typical volume rendering pipeline stages in texture map volume rendering, ray casting and splatting we provide a quantitative analysis of the theoretical and practical limits for the required bit precision for computation and storage. Applying this analysis to any volume rendering implementation can balance the internal precisions based on the desired final output precision and can result in significant speedups and reduced memory footprint.
Detailed analysis of the factors affecting emitter recombination in solar cells through the small-signal voltage decay method

A general solution to the coupled time-dependent diffusion equations that describe minority carrier decay in any open-circuit solar cell is presented. Emitter bandgap narrowing is taken into account. The effective lifetime derived from voltage decay measurements can be accurately related to recombination rates in the emitter and in the base. In order to obtain closed-form solutions, it is assumed that the emitter doping profile could be expressed as a power law. The minority carrier lifetime and mobility in the emitter are assumed constant. Theoretical results are compared with computer simulations. >
The potential relevance of cytokines to ovarian physiology: the emerging role of resident ovarian cells of the white blood cell series.

ELUCIDATING the secrets of intraovarian intercellular communication constitutes a central area of investigation. Whereas most attention has been directed thus far at the somatic cellular components of the ovary, the potential role(s) and relative importance of resident ovarian white blood cell types have received relatively limited attention. Efforts are currently underway to reconcile traditional ovarian physiology with observations relevant to intraovarian components of the white blood cell series. In so doing, the already formidable task of analyzing intraovarian interactions stands to be further complicated. In many ways, the paradigms explored at the level of the ovary have broad implications for endocrinology, in general, in that similar phenomena are likely to be operational in other highly regulated systems. Although the present scientific literature may only provide limited information as it pertains to resident ovarian white blood cell types, the mere implications of these relatively new develop...
Interactive source registration in community-oriented information integration

Modern Internet communities need to integrate and query structured information. Employing current information integration infrastructure, data integration is still a very costly effort, since source registration is performed by a central authority which becomes a bottleneck. We propose the community-based integration paradigm which pushes the source registration task to the independent community members. This creates new challenges caused by each community member's lack of a global overview on how her data interacts with the application queries of the community and the data from other sources. How can the source owner maximize the visibility of her data to existing applications, while minimizing the clean-up and reformatting cost associated with publishing? Does her data contradict (or could it contradict in the future) the data of other sources? We introduce RIDE, a visual registration tool that extends schema mapping interfaces like that of MS Biz Talk Server and IBM's Clio with a suggestion component that guides the source owner in the autonomous registration, assisting her in answering these questions. RIDE's implementation features efficient procedures for deciding various levels of self-reliance of a GLAV-style source registration for contributing answers to an application query and checking potential and definite inconsistency across sources.
Gene–environment interactions: The potential role of contaminants in somatic growth and the development of the reproductive system of the American alligator

Developing organisms interpret and integrate environmental signals to produce adaptive phenotypes that are prospectively suited for probable demands in later life. This plasticity can be disrupted when embryos are impacted by exogenous contaminants, such as environmental pollutants, producing potentially deleterious and long-lasting mismatches between phenotype and the future environment. We investigated the ability for in ovo environmental contaminant exposure to alter the growth trajectory and ovarian function of alligators at five months after hatching. Alligators collected as eggs from polluted Lake Apopka, FL, hatched with smaller body masses but grew faster during the first five months after hatching, as compared to reference-site alligators. Further, ovaries from Lake Apopka alligators displayed lower basal expression levels of inhibin beta A mRNA as well as decreased responsiveness of aromatase and follistatin mRNA expression levels to treatment with follicle stimulating hormone. We posit that these differences predispose these animals to increased risks of disease and reproductive dysfunction at adulthood.
Pulmonary autograft failure caused by a relapse of rheumatic fever

Abstract An 18-year-old patient is described with a relapse of rheumatic fever resulting in severe aortic valve regurgitation 1 year after replacement of the native aortic root by pulmonary autograft.
A CMOS-MEMS mirror with curled-hinge comb drives

A micromirror achieves up to /spl plusmn/4.7/spl deg/ angular displacement with 18 Vdc by a comb-drive design that uses vertical angled offset of the comb fingers. Structures are made from a combination of CMOS interconnect layers and a thick underlying silicon layer. Electrical isolation of the silicon fingers is realized with a slight silicon undercut etch, which disconnects sufficiently narrow pieces of silicon under the CMOS microstructures. The 1 mm by 1 mm micromirror is made of an approximately 40 /spl mu/m-thick single-crystal silicon plate coated with aluminum from the CMOS interconnect stack. The mirror has a peak-to-peak curling of 0.5 /spl mu/m. Fabrication starts with a conventional CMOS process followed by dry-etch micromachining steps. There is no need for wafer bonding and accurate front-to-backside alignment. Such capability has potential applications in biomedical imaging, optical switches, optical scanners, interferometric systems, and vibratory gyroscopes.
Novel insights into the regulation of the timeless protein.

In the Drosophila circadian clock, period ( per ) and its partner, timeless ( tim ), play a central role in the negative limb of an autoregulatory feedback loop. Unlike per , the dosage of which affects the frequency (tau) of the circadian cycle, we found that increasing copies of the tim gene has no effect on clock period length. The use of the tim promoter to express per results in a shortening of circadian period, also indicating that the regulation of tim is different from that of per. Drosophila TIM is similar to the mammalian circadian protein mPER2 in that it shuttles independently between the nucleus and cytoplasm both in vivo and in vitro . Contrary to the current model that PER and TIM heterodimerization is a prerequisite for their nuclear entry, PER is not required to transport TIM into nuclei, although it influences TIM localization and vice versa. Blocking nuclear export led to increased nuclear expression of TIM in S2 cells and in wild-type and per 01 larvae, suggesting that PER may be required for nuclear retention of TIM. Unlike PER, nuclear TIM alone has no ability to repress transcription. We propose that TIM drives cycles of PER expression by regulating its stability, and in turn, PER retains TIM in the nucleus, either for the regulation of its own stability or for a novel nuclear role of TIM.