cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phosphor size dependence of lumen efficiency and spatial CCT uniformity for typical white LED emitters

Phosphor particle size effect on both lumen efficiency and angular uniformity of correlated color temperature (CCT) is studied for three types of phosphor converted white LEDs using Monte Carlo simulation tool. It is demonstrated for the first time that the size effect is non-monotonic and exhibits minima in the sub-micron size range. In particularly, the minimum lumen efficiency exists at the particle size parameter (πd/λ) around 6, where, however, also lies in the relatively low CCT uniformity. Moreover, the simulation results are verified by an analytical model developed for the estimation of critical particle size. Finally, this study provides important technical implication for the selection of phosphors in WLED manufacturing and development of phosphor materials for WLED applications.
Dimensionality crossover in Tl2Ba2Ca2Cu3O10−δ compounds in magnetic fields

Abstract The I–V characteristics of Tl2Ba2Ca2Cu3O10−δ bulk samples have been measured in magnetic fields (0.07–1.2 T). It is found that at low fields (0.07–0.15 T), The nonlinear I–V curves show scaling behaviors which are consistent with a three dimensional Vortex-Glass phase transition with a dynamic exponent z=2.7. As the magnetic field increases, I–V curves gradually deviate from the typical Vortex-Glass scaling behavior. When H>62;0.6 T, a pure power-law in the I–V curves could not be found at any temperature, which indicates that a 3D to 2D crossover occurs.
Detecting correlations among form attributes: An object-examining test with infants

An object-examining habituation procedure was used to test 12-month-old infants' ability to detect correlations among body parts of 3-dimensional toy animals. Following familiarization with 3 animals that established a particular pattern of correlated parts, infants in Experiment 1 spent more time examining an animal that violated the established pattern of correlation compared to a novel animal that was consistent with the pattern of correlation. Follow-up studies ruled out an a priori stimulus preference as an alternative explanation for the test effects (Experiment 2) and confirmed that individual exemplars having the same attribute clusters were discriminable to infants (Experiment 3). The findings, in conjunction with previous research, add to an accumulating body of evidence indicating similarities across visual habituation and object manipulation measures of categorization in infants.
Splines on spherical triangulations with hanging vertices

Spline spaces defined on spherical triangulations with hanging vertices are studied. In addition to dimension formulae, explicit basis functions are constructed, and their supports and stability are discussed. The approximation power of the spaces is also treated.
Precocious expression of the final larval instar developmental pattern in larvae of Trichoplusia ni pseudoparasitized by Chelonus spp.

Abstract 1. 1. The present study has used a number of electrophoretic approaches to analyze the proteins in normal Trichoplusia ni larvae and those pseudoparasitized by Chelonus spp. 2. 2. A number of feeding-stage, hemolymph proteins appear or increase dramatically only during the final larval stadium. 3. 3. Other proteins highly abundant only during the penultimate stadium disappear or decrease dramatically during the final stadium. 4. 4. The comparative protein profiles of penultimate instar, pseudoparasitized larvae are very similar to those of last instar larvae. 5. 5. These changes in hemolymph proteins are seen on gels resulting from electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing (wide range and narrow range Ampholine® and very narrow range Immobiline® gels) and SDS-disc electrophoresis. 6. 6. It is concluded that the entire last instar developmental pattern of protein gene products is occurring precociously in pseudoparasitized larvae.
Internal upconversion and doubling of an optical parametric oscillator to extend the tuning range

Efficient extension of the tuning range of a 1.09-1.95\mu parametric oscillator to 0.435-0.975\mu by upconversion and doubling internally to the oscillator cavity is reported. Unlike previously studied external mixing, internal upconversion and doubling yielded uniform powers of 30 and 60 kW, respectively, over the entire extended tuning range with an unfocused 2-mm ruby laser pump beam of 750 kW.
Convergence of surface diffusion parameters with model crystal size

Abstract A study of the variation in the calculated quantities for adatom diffusion with respect to the size of the model crystal is presented. The reported quantities include surface diffusion barrier heights, pre-exponential factors, and dynamical correction factors. Embedded atom method (EAM) potentials were used throughout this effort. Both the layer size and the depth of the crystal were found to influence the values of the Arrhenius factors significantly. In particular, exchange type mechanisms required a significantly larger model than standard hopping mechanisms to determine adatom diffusion barriers of equivalent accuracy. The dynamical events that govern the corrections to transition state theory (TST) did not appear to be as sensitive to crystal depth. Suitable criteria for the convergence of the diffusion parameters with regard to the rate properties are illustrated.
The Effects of Land vs. Aquatic Plyometrics on Power, Torque, Velocity, and Muscle Soreness in Women

The purpose of this study was to compare changes in performance indicators (power, torque, and velocity) and muscle soreness between plyometric training on land and in water. Thirty-two college age women were randomly assigned to 8 weeks of an identical plyometric training program on land or in an aquatic setting. Performance indicators were assessed pretraining, midtraining, and posttraining. Muscle soreness (ordinal scale) and pain sensitivity (palpation) were assessed after a training bout (0, 48, and 96 hours) during the first week of training and when training intensity was increased (weeks 3 and 6). Performance indictors increased for both groups (pretraining < midtraining < posttraining, p < or = 0.001). Muscle soreness was significantly greater in the land compared to the aquatic plyometric training group at baseline and each time training intensity was increased, p = 0.01. Aquatic plyometrics provided the same performance enhancement benefits as land plyometrics with significantly less muscle soreness.
High yield protection of purine ribonucleosides for phosphoramidite RNA synthesis

Abstract We report high yield procedures for protection of purine ribonucleosides based on a reaction which allows concomitant highly regiospecific 2′-silylation and 3′-phosphitylation. Subsequent cleavage of the H-phosphonate monoester moiety without silyl migration provides intermediates ready for phosphitylation by standard methods to give fully protected phosphoramidites.
John Betjeman's "Bristol and Clifton": Echoes of Robert Browning's "My Last Duchess"

(2006). John Betjeman's 'Bristol and Clifton': Echoes of Robert Browning's 'My Last Duchess' ANQ: A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews: Vol. 19, No. 3, pp. 35-38.
Association of ocular pressure and optic disc cup volume with red blood cell sodium-potassium ATPase inhibition.

Purpose. To determine if there were significant differences between the number of red blood cell ouabain binding sites in normals and untreated ocular hypertensives plus one open-angle glaucoma patient. Methods. We measured the binding of 3 H ouabain to erythrocyte membranes of 23 normals, 25 ocular hypertensives and one open-angle glaucoma. We also measured the levels of plasma cortisol and digoxin in these subjects. Characteristics of cupping of the optic disc and thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer, as well as area of optic disc pallor of these subjects were measured by stereophotogrammetry and by computerized image analysis from single and stereo photographs. Results. The number of 3 H ouabain binding sites was observed to be significantly less in the ocular hypertensives and one glaucoma compared to the normals (p = 0.0009). In multi-variate analyses, to determine what other factors affected this difference, there was a significant negative association with mean intraocular pressure (p = 0.003...
Brewster anomalies: A polarization-induced delocalization effect.

We predict that anomalously long localization lengths---which in some special cases diverge---can be expected for $p$-polarized light propagating through one-dimensional disordered structures under certain conditions. We give a physical argument for the existence of such anomalies, and support it by a long-wavelength theory and Monte Carlo calculations.
Feasibility of ecological momentary assessment to characterize adolescent postoperative diet and activity patterns after weight loss surgery

Abstract Background Adherence to postoperative lifestyle recommendations may be associated with weight outcomes among weight loss surgery (WLS) patients, but it is difficult to objectively assess and has not been reported among adolescents. Methods of assessment that are ecologically valid and provide important contextual information related to adherence are needed. The objective of this pilot study was to demonstrate the feasibility of using a form of ecological momentary assessment (i.e., daily phone diaries; DPD) to assess postoperative diet and activity patterns among a sample of adolescent WLS patients to determine adherence to best-practice lifestyle recommendations. Setting University Hospital. Methods Eight adolescent WLS patients completed 3 consecutive DPDs at 12 and 18 months postsurgery. Results Ninety-four percent of DPD's were completed with an average 20.9±5.0 activities/day. Although adolescents engaged in recommended lifestyle behaviors (e.g.,≥30 min moderate physical activity/d; duration of meals/snacks≥20 min) some of the time, few were adherent to postoperative physical activity and dietary recommendations the majority of the time. Conclusion The DPD provides a feasible and informative methodology for assessing adherence behaviors among adolescent WLS patients. It is a relatively low burden method that may be useful in identifying behavioral targets for postoperative intervention. Adherence to postoperative lifestyle recommendations may be a serious concern among this cohort. These preliminary data shed light on potential targets for postoperative intervention. Targeting nonadherence is essential in not only improving health outcomes but in deciphering the true potential effectiveness of WLS in this at-risk population.
Causal Inference with Differential Measurement Error: Nonparametric Identification and Sensitivity Analysis

Political scientists have long been concerned about the validity of survey measurements. Although many have studied classical measurement error in linear regression models where the error is assumed to arise completely at random, in a number of situations the error may be correlated with the outcome. We analyze the impact of differential measurement error on causal estimation. The proposed nonparametric identification analysis avoids arbitrary modeling decisions and formally characterizes the roles of different assumptions. We show the serious consequences of differential misclassification and offer a new sensitivity analysis that allows researchers to evaluate the robustness of their conclusions. Our methods are motivated by a field experiment on democratic deliberations, in which one set of estimates potentially suffers from differential misclassification. We show that an analysis ignoring differential measurement error may considerably overestimate the causal effects. This finding contrasts with the case of classical measurement error, which always yields attenuation bias.
Social Disadvantage is Not Mental Disorder: Response to Campbell-Sills and Stein:

Our target article argued that, although there are genuine social-phobic disorders wherein something goes wrong with mechanisms that generate social anxiety, most conditions satisfying DSM-IV social phobia criteria are likely not disorders but high-end, normal-range social anxiety overstimulated by contemporary social environments that demand high interaction and scrutiny while frowning on submission displays (1). We used the harmful dysfunction analysis of mental disorder to evaluate disorder status: according to this model, a disorder is a harmful failure of an internal mechanism to perform a natural function for which it was biologically designed. Social anxiety, we argued, is a normally distributed, biologically selected trait designed to protect individuals from risky behaviour in the social group. High-end designed levels of social anxiety may be less useful now than in ancestral environments—and even disadvantageous in current social environments—but such anxieties are part of normal human nature and not dysfunctions. In their thoughtful defense of DSM criteria, Campbell-Sills and Stein (2) acknowledge that some community cases of DSM-defined social phobia are normal temperamental variation rather than disorders. Nonetheless, they defend the classification of most DSM social phobia as disorder. They argue that the harmful dysfunction analysis is inadequate for judging disorder; that, anyway, most DSM social phobia is harmful dysfunction; and that, regardless, DSM social phobia is best classified as disorder for pragmatic reasons. We consider these points in turn.
Representation for complex numbers

This communication suggests the feasibility of a single-component scheme for representing complex numbers with real bases. Several advantages are pointed out, including the very simple extraction of the real and imaginary parts of a complex number.
Performance Assessment of Band-Limited Limiting and Blanking Communication Systems

This paper presents a general formulation of piecewise linear (PWL) models of voltage transfer functions to characterize channel nonlinearities in satellite digital communication systems. This formulation provides a tractable approach to evaluate the performance of such systems with band-limited PWL limiters, channel blanking, and hardlimiters. The envelope characteristics of the PWL models are derived in terms of breakpoints and slopes of PWL segments. Intermodulation (IM) products, their statistical properties, and the resultant error probability performance of such BPSK systems, subject to CW interference, are numerically illustrated through these PWL models.
Development of an avian leukosis-sarcoma virus subgroup A pseudotyped lentiviral vector.

We are using avian leukosis-sarcoma virus (ALSV) vectors to generate mouse tumor models in transgenic mice expressing TVA, the receptor for subgroup A ALSV. Like other classical retroviruses, ALSV requires cell division to establish a provirus after infection of host cells. In contrast, lentiviral vectors are capable of integrating their viral DNA into the genomes of nondividing cells. With the intention of initiating tumorigenesis in resting, TVA-positive cells, we have developed a system for the preparation of a human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-based lentiviral vector, pseudotyped with the envelope protein of ALSV subgroup A (EnvA). The HIV(ALSV-A) vector retains the requirement for TVA on the surface of target cells and can be produced at titers of 5 × 103 infectious units (IU)/ml. By inserting the central polypurine tract (cPPT) from the HIV-1 pol gene and removing the cytoplasmic tail of EnvA, the pseudotype can be produced at titers approaching 105 IU/ml and can be concentrated by ultracentrifugation to titers of 107 IU/ml. HIV(ALSV-A) also infects embryonic fibroblasts derived from transgenic mice in which TVA expression is driven by the β-actin promoter. In addition, this lentivirus pseudotype efficiently infects these fibroblasts after cell cycle arrest, when they are resistant to infection by ALSV vectors. This system may be useful for introducing genes into somatic cells in adult TVA transgenic animals and allows evaluation of the effects of altered gene expression in differentiated cell types in vivo.
Reliability of microwave SiGe/Si heterojunction bipolar transistors

The degradation behavior of NPN Si/SiGe/Si heterojunction bipolar transistors, grown by solid-source molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), has been studied by accelerated lifetime testing at different ambient temperatures. The degradations of the dc current gain and the microwave performance of the devices are explained in terms of recombination enhanced impurity diffusion (REID) of boron atoms from the base region and the subsequent formation of parasitic energy barriers at the base-emitter and base-collector junctions.
Renal disease in an antiretroviral-naïve HIV-infected outpatient population in Western Kenya

Background. Several commonly used antiretrovirals (ARVs) require dose adjustments to prevent toxicities in the presence of renal insufficiency. Because no prospective studies of the prevalence or risk factors for kidney disease in stable outpatient human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected indigenous African populations have been published to date, it is not known if already scarce resources should be allocated to detect renal dysfunction, in those without risk factors for kidney disease, prior to initiation of increasingly available antiretrovirals in developing countries. Methods. A cross-sectional study to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for renal disease in a cohort of medically stable, HIV-infected, antiretroviral-naive adults, without diabetes or hypertension, presenting to an HIV clinic in western Kenya. Results. Of 373 patients with complete data, renal insufficiency (CrCl <60ml/min) was identified in 43 (11.5%) [18 (4.8%) had a CrCl <50ml/min]. Despite high correlation coefficients between the three renal function estimating equations used, when compared to creatinine clearance as calculated by Cockcroft-Gault, lower rates of moderate to severe renal insufficiency were identified by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equations. Proteinuria, defined as a urine dipstick protein of equal to or greater than 1+, was detected in only 23 subjects (6.2%). Conclusions. Renal insufficiency is not uncommon, even in stable patients without diabetes or hypertension. Conversely, proteinuria was unexpectedly infrequent in this population. Utilizing resources to assess renal function prior to initiation of antiretrovirals in order to identify those likely to benefit from dosage adjustment is justified.
Will virtual reality simulators end the credentialing arms race in gastrointestinal endoscopy or the need for family physician faculty with endoscopic skills

All important ideas pass through three stages. First, they are ridiculed. Second, they are violently opposed. Third, they are accepted as being self-evident. - Schopenhauer Twenty years ago I stumbled upon an idea that changed my life. In a study of preventive medicine behaviors by family physicians, the introduction of a new procedural technology (flexible gastroin­ testinal endoscopy) markedly improved the long­ standing noncompliance of physicians and pa­ tients in the prevention of colorectal cancer. 1 ,2 The fiberoptic bundles of short colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy translated into a re­ producibly constant group of diagnostic advan­ tages. 3 Improved patient tolerance led to greater insertion depth and better diagnostic yield. Few, however, have commented on the process that led to displacement of old technology (rigid sigmoi­ doscopy) by a continuum of newer technologies (flexible sigmoidoscopy, endoscopic biopsy, and colonoscopy; and esophagogastroduodenoscopy [EGD]).4,5 Even fewer have described the lengthy technology transfer curve (30 years) and the em­ barrassing resistance of established physicians who were trying to protect the status quo. 6 - 8
Correlations of excited electrons. The study of channels in hyperspherical coordinates

According to early experiments and calculations, doubly excited states of helium are grouped into channels (Rydberg series and continua) with very different excitation and decay probability. Macek has identified channels by using hyperspherical coordinates [$R={({r}_{1}^{2}+{r}_{2}^{2})}^{\frac{1}{2}},tan\ensuremath{\alpha}=\frac{{r}_{2}}{{r}_{1}},\ensuremath{\Omega}\ensuremath{\equiv}{\ensuremath{\alpha},{\stackrel{^}{r}}_{1},{\stackrel{^}{r}}_{2}}$] and solving the Schr\"odinger equation initially at fixed $R$; each eigenvalue ${U}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}(R)$ and eigen-function ${\ensuremath{\Phi}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}(R;\ensuremath{\Omega})$ characterizes one channel and the approximate solution of the whole equation has the form ${F}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}(R){\ensuremath{\Phi}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}(R;\ensuremath{\Omega})$. We study the electron correlations in each channel by obtaining explicit expressions for the ${\ensuremath{\Phi}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}(R;\ensuremath{\Omega})$, and extend the range of Macek's investigation to higher channels. Pairs of orbital quantum numbers (${l}_{1}$, ${l}_{2}$) are found to be quasiconstants for each channel; channels with the same (${l}_{1}$, ${l}_{2}$) and ($L$, $S$, $\ensuremath{\pi}$) differ mainly in the degree of excitation of the radial correlation. Channel functions ${\ensuremath{\Phi}}_{\ensuremath{\mu}}(R;\ensuremath{\Omega})$ of $^{1}S$, $^{1}P+$, and $^{3}P+$ channels have an antinode at or near $\ensuremath{\alpha}={45}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}$, while those of $^{3}S$, $^{1}P\ensuremath{-}$, and $^{3}P\ensuremath{-}$ channels have a node at or near $\ensuremath{\alpha}={45}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}$. An antinode or a node appears to occur generally at or near $\ensuremath{\alpha}={45}^{\ensuremath{\circ}}$. This location of nodes in the minus and $^{3}S$ channels is shown to be related to the weakness of coupling both among these channels and to plus channels with the same ($L$, $S$, $\ensuremath{\pi}$) symmetry. Examples for ${\mathrm{H}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ are discussed. The interactions between channels with different (${l}_{1}$, ${l}_{2}$) are important where their potential curves are nearly degenerate. Examples of the effect of this degeneracy in the spectra of alkaline-earth atoms are indicated.
Fuel load reductions and fire risk in central hardwood forests of the united states: a spatial simulation study

With wildfire suppression, accumulation of fine fuels and coarse fuels increases fire risk in Central Hardwood Forests. Assessment of fire risk provides guides for fuel treatments (prescribed fires, or coarse woody debris reduction) to avoid severe wildfires. A spatially explicit landscape model, LANDIS, was used to simulate fine and coarse fuels and their dynamics in the Missouri Ozarks as influenced by forest succession, species establishment, tree mortality, wildfire disturbance and fuel treatments. Three scenarios were selected and simulated for 200 years: (I) wildfire suppression only; (II) prescribed fire with wildfire suppression; and (III) prescribed fire and coarse fuel reduction with wildfire suppression. LANDIS evaluated the potential fire risk for each forest stand by rating the potential fire intensity and fire probability. About 5% of the stands with the highest potential fire risk were selected each decade for fuel treatment under scenarios II and III. Simulation results showed that fuels and potential fire risk gradually built up to high levels in scenario I. Prescribed fires in scenario II reduced potential wildfire risk at the beginning of the 200-year simulation, but became less effective in limiting wildfires in later years. Additional coarse fuel reduction coupled with prescribed fire in scenario III effectively controlled the coarse fuel loading and potential fire risk. The simulated mean wildfire return interval increased from 325 years in scenario I, to 496 years in scenario II, to 637 years in scenario III.
Operational performance of airlines: An extension of traditional measurement paradigms

This study presents a new approach for measuring operational performance, an important facet of performance missing in the current literature concerned with international airline strategy. International performance assessments of airlines from published financial information are difficult, because (1) most airlines lease a substantial fraction of their aircraft, and (2) different accounting and taxation rules in various countries result in different impacts of leased assets on profit and balance-sheet information. A possible solution are nonfinancial data. For example, the number of available ton kilometers may reflect aircraft capacity more accurately than flight equipment depreciation. However, different units of measurement introduce new difficulties. Drawing on data from 15 airlines, this study utilizes 'Data Envelopment Analysis' as a technique to analyze and compare operational performance of airlines. The study concludes with an analysis of strategic factors of high profitability and performance in the airline industry.
Fugacity coefficients for free radicals in dense fluids: HO2 in supercritical water

The fugacity coefficients of the hydroperoxyl radical in supercritical water are estimated through molecular simulations. A potential function for the radical is first derived from ab initio self-consistent field molecular orbital calculations at the unrestricted Hartree-Fock level and from data in the literature. Molecular dynamics simulations of the hydroperoxyl radical are then performed in supercritical water and the fugacity coefficient of the radical is calculated by the free-energy perturbation method using the dynamic coupling parameter window-modification technique. The values of the fugacity coefficients at 773 K differ from unity. This methodology facilitates the incorporation of thermodynamic nonidealities in mechanism-based kinetic models for free-radical reactions in supercritical water.
Evil, the human cognitive condition, and natural theology

Recent responses to evidential formulations of the argument from evil have emphasized the possible limitations on human cognitive access to the goods and evils that might be connected with various wordly states of affairs. This emphasis, I argue, is a twin-edged sword, as it imperils a popular form of natural theology. I conclude by arguing that the popularity enjoyed by Reformed Epistemology does not detract from the significance of this result, since Reformed Epistemology is not inimical to natural theology, and Reformists themselves concede the usefulness of theistic proofs.
NCAR global General Circulation Model of the atmosphere

This paper describes a model of the general circulation of the earth’s atmosphere which has been developed and experimented with, since 1964, at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), Boulder, Colo. A distinguishing feature of the NCAR model is that the vertical coordinate is height rather than pressure, though hydrostatic equilibrium is maintained in the system. In fact, the dynamical framework of the model is very similar to the one proposed by L. F. Richardson in 1922. Various physical processes in the atmosphere, such as energy transfer due to solar and terrestrial radiation, small-scale turbulence and convection, etc., are incorporated in the model. An explicit prediction of the moisture field is avoided. Instead, it is assumed that the atmosphere is completely saturated by water vapor. Thus, the release of latent heat of condensation can be computed. In addition to a description of the model, the equations for the zonal mean and eddy energy are presented. Finally, a baroclinic stability analysis of the model is made in order to gain an insight into the finite-difference formulation of the present model. Long term (over 100 days) numerical integrations are being performed successfully with a two-layer version of the present model. Details of finite-difference schemes and the results of numerical calculations will be described in a separate article. “Perhaps some day in the dim future it will be possible to advance the computations faster than the weather advances and at a cost less than the saving to mankind due to the information gained. But that is a dream.” [From Weather Prediction by Numerical Process by L. F. Richardson, 1922.1
Parental history of stroke predicts subclinical but not clinical stroke: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study

Background and Purpose—An individual with a positive family history of a disease may be at increased risk for the disease. We sought to examine whether parental history of stroke is associated with...
Thermal chemistry of H2S and H2O on the (100) plane of pyrite: Unique reactivity of defect sites

The interaction of a natural face of FeS2 (100), cleaned in ultra-high vacuum (UHV), with H2O and H2S has been investigated with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), temperature programmed desorption (TPD), and the photoemission of adsorbed xenon (PAX). PAX is sensitive to the short-range order of the surface and allows the effects of defects on the surface reactivity of FeS 2(100) to be studied. PAX results suggest that both H2S and H2O bind most strongly to defect sites that we propose are, at least in part, sulfur anion vacancy sites. Whereas the majority of H2O adsorbate desorbs from these sites in the temperature interval of 200‐300 K, H2S dissociates upon heating to 500 K into adsorbed surface hydrogen, S, and SH. This dissociation occurs on defect sites that then release part of the dissociation fragment, which is thought to be surface hydrogen, onto other regions of the pyrite surface that are proposed to be stoichiometric FeS 2. Heating to 600 K causes further reaction of S containing dissociation fragments with sulfur-deficient sites to form new surface sites that resemble FeS2. The results also suggest that surface hydrogen dissolves into the pyrite bulk upon heating to 600 K.
Overexpression of Catalase Diminishes Oxidative Cysteine Modifications of Cardiac Proteins.

Reactive protein cysteine thiolates are instrumental in redox regulation. Oxidants, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), react with thiolates to form oxidative post-translational modifications, enabling physiological redox signaling. Cardiac disease and aging are associated with oxidative stress which can impair redox signaling by altering essential cysteine thiolates. We previously found that cardiac-specific overexpression of catalase (Cat), an enzyme that detoxifies excess H2O2, protected from oxidative stress and delayed cardiac aging in mice. Using redox proteomics and systems biology, we sought to identify the cysteines that could play a key role in cardiac disease and aging. With a ‘Tandem Mass Tag’ (TMT) labeling strategy and mass spectrometry, we investigated differential reversible cysteine oxidation in the cardiac proteome of wild type and Cat transgenic (Tg) mice. Reversible cysteine oxidation was measured as thiol occupancy, the ratio of total available versus reversibly oxidized cysteine thiols. Catalase overexpression globally decreased thiol occupancy by ≥1.3 fold in 82 proteins, including numerous mitochondrial and contractile proteins. Systems biology analysis assigned the majority of proteins with differentially modified thiols in Cat Tg mice to pathways of aging and cardiac disease, including cellular stress response, proteostasis, and apoptosis. In addition, Cat Tg mice exhibited diminished protein glutathione adducts and decreased H2O2 production from mitochondrial complex I and II, suggesting improved function of cardiac mitochondria. In conclusion, our data suggest that catalase may alleviate cardiac disease and aging by moderating global protein cysteine thiol oxidation.
Can L-Cysteine and Vitamin D Rescue Vitamin D and Vitamin D Binding Protein Levels in Blood Plasma of African American Type 2 Diabetic Patients?

Aims: Vitamin D (VD) deficiency has become a worldwide epidemic, particularly affecting African Americans (AA). VD deficiency has been implicated in the excessive rate of complications associated with diabetes in AA. Blood levels of VD binding protein (VDBP) and glutathione (GSH) are lower in AA compared with those in Caucasians. This study tested the hypothesis that lower GSH levels are linked to VDBP and VD deficiency in AA-type 2 diabetic (AA-T2D) patients. Blood was analyzed from T2D and nondiabetic subjects (N). Experiments examining GSH deficiency and l-cysteine (LC) supplementation were performed using THP-1 monocytes. Results: Plasma levels of LC, GSH, VDBP, and VD were significantly lower in AA-T2D compared with age-matched AA-N or Caucasian-T2D. Lower levels of LC and GSH showed a significant positive correlation with lower VDBP and VD levels in AA-T2D. GSH deficiency investigated using an antisense approach depleted VDBP/vitamin D receptor (VDR); LC supplementation caused significant upregulation of GSH and of VDBP/VDR, while supplementation with VD+LC caused a significantly greater GSH and VDBP/VDR upregulation compared with that of VD alone in monocytes. Innovation and Conclusion: The reported observations suggest that VD deficiency may be linked to GSH and LC status and lead to a novel hypothesis that supplementation with LC in combination with VD will be effective in increasing VD levels and reducing health disparities in AA. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 23, 688–693.
Effects of pH, Slurry Composition, and Operating Conditions on Heat Transfer Fouling during Evaporation of a Lignocellulosic Biomass Process Stream

Fouling of stainless steel heat transfer surfaces by soluble and suspended solids within lignocellulosic biomass process streams during evaporation elevates energy consumption and cleaning costs associated with this unit operation. Efficient evaporation is important for long-term economic stability of the biorefinery industry. In this study we evaluated the effect of hydrolysate pH, pretreatment variety (dilute acid versus hot water), and shear forces at the evaporator surface on fouling, as measured by the performance parameters such as induction period, fouling rate, and final total heat transfer resistance. Using an annular fouling probe, fouling tests were conducted at pH 1.5, 3.0, and 5.0 at 120, 130, and 140 °C with 0, 10, and 20% (w/v%) total suspended solids. Effects of Reynolds number and Ca2+ ion concentration on fouling rate and induction periods were also determined. Fouling deposits were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), and ash analysis...
Family Adjustment Measure: Scale Construction and Validation.

We administered the Family Adjustment Measure to 368 parents of children with special needs to identify positive adjustment. We randomly split the sample to conduct exploratory factor analysis (n =...
A RARE CASE OF MULTIPLE SPIGELIAN HERNIA CAUSING ILEUS

Spigelヘルニアはほとんどが後天性に発生する極めて稀な腹壁ヘルニアである.今回われわれは,イレウスを合併した本邦第1例目のSpigelヘルニア多発例を経験したので報告する.症例は82歳女性で,肥満体であった.以前より,腹壁ヘルニアがあるも症状を欠いていたので放置していた.平成12年1月,腹痛と嘔吐にて発症し,入院した.腹部CT検査と小腸造影検査にて2つのSpigelヘルニアがあり,うち小さなヘルニアで回腸が嵌頓し,イレウスをおこしていた.全身状態や合併症を考慮して,保存的治療を行うも軽快せず,開腹手術を行った.開腹所見では,腹直筋外縁のSpigel腱膜より皮下組織に, 2cm大のヘルニアが脱出していた.ヘルニア嚢内には嵌頓した小腸と大網があったが,虚血性変化が軽微であったため,腹腔内に還納し,ヘルニア嚢切除およびヘルニア門を縫合閉鎖した.術後経過良好にて退限した.
OBSERVATION ON GERMICIDAL PROPERTY OF ULTRAVIOLET RAYS IN WATER DISPENSER

Objective To observe the germicidal efficacy of ultraviolet rays in water dispenser.Methods Membrane filtration quantitative test was used to test the germicidal efficacy of ultraviolet rays and the filtration degerming efficacy in the water dispenser.Results With the 2 L/min speed of water outflow,99.94% to 99.95% of Escherichia coli in the water were killed by the 11 W ultraviolet lamp installed in the water dispenser.Filtered by the Ag-activated carbon filter and the 2 μm-pore membrane in the water dispenser,and 2 L/min speed of water outflow,the degerming rate of E.coli in the water was 49.46% to 50.61%. With both the ultraviolet irradiation and filtration system,the total degerming rate of E.coli was 99.97% in the water dispenser.Conclusions The germicidal efficacy of the water dispenser can meet the drinking water standards.The main degerming factor is ultraviolet rays and the degerming rate of the filtration system can only reach about 50%.
Cystitis Emphysematosa Caused by Candida Albicans

Cystitis emphysematosa was diagnosed ante mortem in a white male severe diabetic amputee with a history of recurrent urinary tract infection and long-term Foley catheter drainage. Laboratory cultures before and during surgery, including histology, demonstrated invasive Candida albicans as the etiologic agent. This is the first case reported of cystitis emphysematosa caused by Candida albicans.
Structure of Penta-Alanine Investigated by Two-Dimensional Infrared Spectroscopy and Molecular Dynamics Simulation.

We have studied the structure of (Ala)5, a model unfolded peptide, using a combination of 2D IR spectroscopy and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Two different isotopomers, each bis-labeled with 13C═O and 13C═18O, were strategically designed to shift individual site frequencies and uncouple neighboring amide-I′ modes. 2D IR spectra taken under the double-crossed ⟨π/4, –π/4, Y, Z⟩ polarization show that the labeled four-oscillator systems can be approximated by three two-oscillator systems. By utilizing the different polarization dependence of diagonal and cross peaks, we extracted the coupling constants and angles between three pairs of amide-I′ transition dipoles through spectral fitting. These parameters were related to the peptide backbone dihedral angles through DFT calculated maps. The derived dihedral angles are all located in the polyproline-II (ppII) region of the Ramachandran plot. These results were compared to the conformations sampled by Hamiltonian replica-exchange MD simulations with thre...
Volatile hydrocarbons and fuel oxygenates: Chapter 12

Petroleum hydrocarbons and fuel oxygenates are among the most commonly occurring and widely distributed contaminants in the environment. This chapter presents a summary of the sources, transport, fate, and remediation of volatile fuel hydrocarbons and fuel additives in the environment. Much research has focused on the transport and transformation processes of petroleum hydrocarbons and fuel oxygenates, such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes and methyl tert ‐butyl ether, in groundwater following release from underground storage tanks. Natural attenuation from biodegradation limits the movement of these contaminants and has received considerable attention as an environmental restoration option. This chapter summarizes approaches to environmental restoration, including those that rely on natural attenuation, and also engineered or enhanced remediation. Researchers are increasingly combining several microbial and molecular-based methods to give a complete picture of biodegradation potential and occurrence at contaminated field sites. New insights into the fate of petroleum hydrocarbons and fuel additives have been gained by recent advances in analytical tools and approaches, including stable isotope fractionation, analysis of metabolic intermediates, and direct microbial evidence. However, development of long-term detailed monitoring programs is required to further develop conceptual models of natural attenuation and increase our understanding of the behavior of contaminant mixtures in the subsurface.
Digitally Assisted Analog Circuits; Fifth IEEE Dallas Circuits and Systems Workshop

This paper presents compelling reasons for "digitally assisting" analog functions and important design considerations. ADCs, power amplifier, and MEMS accelerometer are used as examples. In a variety of analog circuits, "digital assistance" can be used to offload accuracy constraints to a digital processor. Key benefits are lower power and potentially higher speed and compatibility with "ultimately scaled CMOS" while key challenges are interdisciplinary nature of design problem; device modeling, circuit design, signal processing algorithms, and consideration of application layer; and design complexity and turnaround time
Comparative analysis of global optimization-based controller tuning methods for an exoskeleton performing push recovery

In this study an exoskeleton is considered. A simplified mathematical model for the exoskeleton is given, and the conditions for it to remain vertically balanced are discussed. The paper focuses on push recovery control. One of the known control strategies for this motion is discussed, and a feedback controller is presented. The controller has 10 tunable coefficient, and the aim of the paper was to make a comparative analysis of two well known global optimization techniques, particle swarm optimization (PSO) and genetic algorithm as applied to the task of tuning this controller. The obtained results show that PSO has higher quality performance, while requiring few function evaluations. This agrees with the results of a number of previous comparative studies of these two methods. Also a tuning method based on Sobol sequences is studied. It showed better performance than both mentioned methods, which suggests that it might be useful for controller tuning applications.
Accuracy of a Portable Bladder Scanner to Measure Post-Void Residual Urine Volume in Women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Abstract Introduction Lower urinary tract evaluation in women with pelvic organ prolapse commonly includes measurement of the post-void residual urine volume. Portable bladder scanners may not accurately measure post-void residual urine volume in women with pelvic organ prolapse as the bladder is no longer in its normal anatomical position. In this study we investigated the accuracy of the BladderScan® BVI 9400 to measure post-void residual urine volume in women with prolapse. Methods We conducted a prospective observational study of 31 women with pelvic organ prolapse being evaluated in the outpatient setting. Women underwent 3 post-void residual urine volume measurements, including 1) portable bladder scan with prolapse not reduced, 2) portable bladder scan with prolapse reduced and 3) straight catheterization. Student’s t-test, Pearson’s correlation and Bland-Altman analysis were used to compare the 3 measurements. Results There were no differences in absolute errors among the 3 methods of measurement (all p >0.05). All 3 measurements were strongly correlated (all r >0.85 and all p Conclusions Pelvic organ prolapse did not affect post-void residual urine volume measurement error using a portable bladder scanner. Thus, it may be unnecessary to reduce stage 2-3 pelvic organ prolapse before obtaining a post-void residual urine volume measurement.
Large scale oscillatory behaviour in loaded asymmetric systems

Resume On considere des equations du type u″ + g(u) = s(1 + e h(t)), ou s ≠ 0 est une constante, e un petit parametre, h(t) une fonction 2π-periodique, et ou la fonction g verifie g′(−∞) ≠ g′(+∞). Suivant les valeurs de g′(+∞) et g′(−∞), on montre l’existence d’un grand nombre de solutions 2π-periodiques d’amplitude voisine de s.
Dynamic Behavior and Isomerization Equilibria of Distannenes Synthesized by Tin Hydride/Olefin Insertions: Characterization of the Elusive Monohydrido Bridged Isomer

The tin(II) hydride [AriPr6Sn(μ-H)]2(AriPr6 = C6H3-2,6(C6H2-2,4,6-iPr3)2) (1a) reacts with 2 equiv of ethylene or t-butylethylene at ca. 25 °C to yield Sn2(AriPr6)2R2(R = ethyl or t-butylethyl), which exist either as a symmetric distannene AriPr6(R)SnSn(R)AriPr6 (2a or 5a) or an unsymmetric stannylstannylene AriPr6SnSnR2AriPr6 (3a). In contrast, the less crowded Sn(II) hydride [AriPr4Sn(μ-H)]2 (AriPr4 = C6H3-2,6(C6H3-2,6-iPr2)2) (1b) reacts with excess ethylene to give AriPr4(CH2CH3)2Sn(CH2CH2)Sn(CH2CH3)(CHCH2)AriPr4 (4) featuring five ethylene equivalents, one of which is dehydrogenated to an vinyl, −CH═CH2, group. The AriPr4 isomers of 2a and 3a, i.e., [AriPr4Sn(C2H5)]2 (2b) and AriPr4SnSn(C2H5)2AriPr4 (3b) are obtained by reaction of [AriPr4Sn(μ-Cl)]2 with EtLi or EtMgBr. The isomeric pairs 2a and 3a are separated by crystallization at different temperatures. Variable-temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy indicates fast ethyl group exchange between Ar(C2H5)SnSn(C2H5)Ar (Ar = AriPr6 (2a) or AriPr4 (2b)) and A...
Zwitterionic Nanocarrier Surface Chemistry Improves siRNA Tumor Delivery and Silencing Activity Relative to Polyethylene Glycol

Although siRNA-based nanomedicines hold promise for cancer treatment, conventional siRNA–polymer complex (polyplex) nanocarrier systems have poor pharmacokinetics following intravenous delivery, hindering tumor accumulation. Here, we determined the impact of surface chemistry on the in vivo pharmacokinetics and tumor delivery of siRNA polyplexes. A library of diblock polymers was synthesized, all containing the same pH-responsive, endosomolytic polyplex core-forming block but different corona blocks: 5 kDa (benchmark) and 20 kDa linear polyethylene glycol (PEG), 10 kDa and 20 kDa brush-like poly(oligo ethylene glycol), and 10 kDa and 20 kDa zwitterionic phosphorylcholine-based polymers (PMPC). In vitro, it was found that 20 kDa PEG and 20 kDa PMPC had the highest stability in the presence of salt or heparin and were the most effective at blocking protein adsorption. Following intravenous delivery, 20 kDa PEG and PMPC coronas both extended circulation half-lives 5-fold compared to 5 kDa PEG. However, in mo...
Review of dual-frequency profile classification module and further improvements

In the post launch era of GPM (Global Precipitation Measurement) mission, classification module for DPR (dual-frequency radar) level 2 algorithm has been under extensively evaluation and continues to show promising results [1][2]. New feature such as surface snowfall identification has been added to the newly released version 5. In this paper, a brief review is provided for rain type classification and melting layer detection in dual-frequency classification module. More emphasis is put on the evaluation of the surface snowfall identification algorithm. Ground validation cases are shown with both NEXRAD radars and NPOL radar during OLYMPEX campaign. Further improvements are focused on developing algorithms to identify graupel and hail profiles using dual-frequency measurements.
Overcoming Obstacles to Preparing for College: Perspectives from a Rural Upward Bound Program

This research study examines the major obstacles low-income rural youth face in preparing to attend college and how to overcome these obstacles through the participation in an Upward Bound program. The data for this study are from a single-site of the regular (“Classic”) Upward Bound program at a public university in a rural New England state and include surveys and interviews with students, guidance counselors, and parents and/or guardians of Upward Bound students. The results of this study indicated that there are two primary barriers that low-income rural students face in preparing for college: financial and social. Students and parents considered applying to the program not only for academic reasons but also for financial and social reasons. Once enrolled in the program, rural students began to benefit academically, financially, and socially. The retention rate at this public university is significantly higher than the national retention rate reported by Mathematica Policy Research, Inc. Several recommendations for practice for rural Upward Bound programs and high schools serving rural Upward Bound-eligible students are included.
Insuring the Practice of Medicine

Although all physicians are aware that practicing medicine in the United States is virtually impossible without some form of liability insurance, many have only a limited understanding of how the American system of professional assurance really works. It is important for the practicing physician to understand not only some of the technical language regarding insurance but also the various forms in which it is available. Doctors should understand the distinguishing features of an effective insurance program.
Seabourn Cruise Line: A Case Study in Achieving Quality

Just about everyone who ranks cruise lines puts Seabourn first on the list. The readers of Conde Nast Traveler ranked it the world's top cruise line for three consecutive years and fifth in their survey of the top 100 overall travel experiences. Of special interest to hospitality professionals is Seabourn's 98.5 percent score for servicehigher than any other vacation experience in the world.