cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Localization at Collections of Minimal Primes

Abstract This paper examines localization for a collection L of minimal prime ideals of a right noetherian ring. It is shown that minimal prime ideals satisfy the second layer condition. Consequently, L is localizable iff L is stable. Localizability of L is characterized using right Krull links between prime ideals and an intersection property involving coprimitive ideals. Clans of minimal prime ideals are characterized and shown to be homogeneous.
System integration for laser restructuring

The Center for Microelectronics Research (CMR) at the University of South Florida has pursued the development of new technologies in the area of high density interconnects. The laser restructuring of electronic circuits, fabricated using standard Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) process techniques, is an excellent alternative for custom programming of electronic circuits that allows for low cost and quick turn around of the restructured parts. A Laser System for restructuring Electronic Systems has been integrated using state of the art hardware components. This Laser System is fully computer controlled using a newly developed Microsoft Windows based software application running on a 486-66 MHz IBM compatible computer. The laser system consists of a high energy 5 watt Argon CW laser, a 2 watt double frequency pulsed Nd:YAG laser, a blocking shutter, electro-optic shutter (EOS), optic delivery system, a high precision x-y translation stage, and a video camera system used to observe the surface under laser processing. All the system components are mounted on granite table installed on four self leveling pneumatic legs for a vibration free process environment. The z-axis mechanisms consists of a stepper motor based translation stage for automatic focus controls. All control software was written using C++ programming language utilizing the power of readily available plug in boards which provide resources such as: counters, timers, image processing and IEEE-488 interfacing for remote laser control. The control environment exhibits a high degree of consistency with widely accepted visually programmed graphical 'point- and-click' interfaces.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A modified secant method for unconstrained minimization

This paper presents a new globally convergent secant method for unconstrained optimization. The root rate of convergence of this algorithm is superlinear, between 1 and 2, decreasing with dimension of the problem. It is shown that on a class of problems, it is substantially more efficient than a number of other algorithms.
Protective action of the serine protease inhibitor N-tosyl-L-lysine chloromethyl ketone (TLCK) against acute soman poisoning.

Soman-poisoned rats display cholinergic crisis, a systemic mast cell degranulation characteristic of anaphylactic reactions and an excitotoxin-like sequential seizure and neuronal degeneration. The protection of guinea pigs from soman lethality by prophylactic administration of the serine protease inhibitor suramin suggests a possible proteolytic component in soman poisoning. The present study tested the effect of N-tosyl-L-lysine chloromethyl ketone (TLCK), an inhibitor of trypsin-like serine proteases, on soman-induced toxic signs (convulsions, righting reflex) and survival time. Nine control guinea pigs receiving 2 x LD(50) (56 microg kg(-1), s.c.) of soman immediately followed by a therapeutic dose of atropine sulfate (17.4 mg kg(-1) i.m.) experienced severe convulsions, and 8/9 lost the righting reflex. Six of these nine animals expired within 65 min; the three remaining animals survived 24 h to termination of the experiment. When a second group of animals were given TLCK (12 mg kg(-1), i.p.) 30 min prior to a 2 x LD(50) soman challenge and atropine-sulfate therapy, 5/9 experienced convulsions and only 3/9 lost the righting reflex. All nine animals survived beyond 4 h, with six surviving to 24 h. Compared with soman controls, prophylaxis with TLCK significantly prevented the loss of righting reflex (P = 0.05) and enhanced 4-h survival (P = 0.005). Although, convulsions were reduced and 24-h survival was improved in TLCK-treated animals, these results were not statistically significant. The protection from soman toxicity by chemically distinct protease inhibitors such as suramin and TLCK suggests a role for pathological proteolytic pathways in soman intoxication.
Laboratory Experiment on Electrokinetic Remediation of Soil

Electrokinetic remediation is a method of decontaminating soil containing heavy metals and polar organic contaminants by passing a direct current through the soil. An undergraduate chemistry laboratory is described to demonstrate electrokinetic remediation of soil contaminated with copper. A 30 cm electrokinetic cell with an applied voltage of 30 V is used to demonstrate the redistribution of copper in sand initially contaminated with 0.24 M copper chloride solution. The copper content in sand is measured by acid extraction followed by complexometric titration. The measurement of the pH across the cell is used to demonstrate the difference in mobility between the H+ and OH– ions during the electrokinetic process.
Homogeneous catalysis by transition metal oxygen anion clusters

Abstract This review provides a thorough discussion of homogeneous catalysis by transition metal oxygen anion clusters (polyoxometalates), with a focus on mechanism. The primary catalysts examined are mixed addenda and d-electron-transition-metal-substituted polyoxometalate (TMSP) complexes. The unusual versatility and tunability of these catalysts and their compatibility with environmentally and economically attractive conditions (solvents, oxidants, etc.) are outlined. A general compilation of the reactions, including catalytic electrooxidations or electroreductions, reported to date is given. Selected examples involving different classes of catalysts, different organic substrates and transformations, and mechanistic information are covered.
Measurements of Ultrasonic Backscattered Spectral Centroid Shift From Spine In Vivo: Methodology and Preliminary Results

Ultrasonic backscatter measurements from vertebral bodies (L3 and L4) in nine women were performed using a clinical ultrasonic imaging system. Measurements were made through the abdomen. The location of a vertebra was identified from the bright specular reflection from the vertebral anterior surface. Backscattered signals were gated to isolate signal emanating from the cancellous interiors of vertebrae. The spectral centroid shift of the backscattered signal, which has previously been shown to correlate highly with bone mineral density (BMD) in human calcaneus in vitro, was measured. BMD was also measured in the nine subjects' vertebrae using a clinical bone densitometer. The correlation coefficient between centroid shift and BMD was r = -0.61. The slope of the linear fit was -160 kHz / (g/cm(2)). The negative slope was expected because the attenuation coefficient (and therefore magnitude of the centroid downshift) is known from previous studies to increase with BMD. The centroid shift may be a useful parameter for characterizing bone in vivo.
An acid-stable tert-butyldiarylsilyl (TBDAS) linker for solid-phase organic synthesis.

A new, robust tert-butyldiarylsilyl (TBDAS) linker has been developed for solid-phase organic synthesis. This linker is stable to both protic and Lewis acidic reaction conditions, overcoming a sign...
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Surgical Technique and Results in 24 Patients

Objective The advantage of anterior column support and fusion in addition to pedicle fixation in patients with degenerative spinal disorders has become increasingly clear. With the increase in popularity of this treatment, a variety of techniques have been used to achieve the goal of anterior column support, fusion, and segmental instrumentation. Posterior lumbar interbody fusion has been used since the late 1940s in the treatment of degenerative lumbar spine. We evaluated a modification to posterior lumbar interbody fusion called transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on 24 patients (9 women, 15 men) who underwent TLIF. The approach involved a unilateral laminectomy and inferior facetectomy at the level of fusion. The interbody fusion was achieved from this unilateral approach by performing discectomy, arthrodesis, and insertion of one or two titanium cages packed with autologous bone. The average age of the patients in this study was 42.6 +/- 12.5 years. Five patients were smokers. Five cases were related to workmen's compensation. Seventeen patients' original symptoms were a combination of low back pain and radiculopathy. Ten patients had had a previous spine operation. Results Eleven patients had L4-S1 TLIFs. The rest of the patients had a single-level TLIF (L2-S1). Average intensive care unit and floor days were 1.1 +/- 1.0 and 5.8 +/- 2.2 days, respectively. The number of days to ambulation was 2.8 +/- 1.6 days. There were a total of six self-limited complications in 24 patients (including one transient neurological complication). The average follow-up time was 16.9 +/- 9.1 months. Twenty-two patients had solid fusions. A modified Prolo scale (4 worst, 20 best) was used to evaluate the clinical outcome. The average score was 16.1 +/- 4.1. Conclusion TLIF is a reliable and safe technique for interbody support that can be performed with excellent clinical outcome. In the authors' experience, TLIF offers excellent exposure with minimal risk. This applies particularly in cases of repeat spine surgery, in which the presence of scar tissue makes traditional posterior lumbar interbody fusion techniques difficult or impossible. In addition, TLIF seems to be a viable alternative to anteroposterior circumferential fusion and/or anterior lumbar interbody fusion.
Structure-antimutagenic activity relationship study of plicatin B

A systematic structure−activity relationship study of plicatin B (1), an antimutagenic constituent of Psoralea juncea, was undertaken with a view toward elucidating its chemical mode of action and possibly optimizing its antimutagenic activity during the process. Compound 1 and its related analogues were examined for their antimutagenic activity against mutations induced by ethyl methanesulfonate, a direct acting mutagen and alkylating agent, in Salmonella typhimurium strain TA100, utilizing the modified Ames test protocol. The dihydro analogue 3 resulting from saturation of the conjugated alkene double bond of 1 was found to exhibit reduced cytotoxicity and enhanced efficacy relative to the parent compound. This result serves preliminarily to exclude a Michael acceptor role of the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl moiety in connection with its antimutagenic activity.
Hydroxyapatite cement cranioplasty in translabyrinthine acoustic neuroma surgery.

Abstract Objectives: Hydroxyapatite cement cranioplasty (HAC) after translabyrinthine resection of acoustic neuroma is a promising new technique for wound reconstruction. This study reviews the efficacy of HAC for the prevention of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and the long-term wound outcomes of HAC versus abdominal fat graft (AFG) reconstruction. Methods: This retrospective study of l08 consecutive acoustic neuromas operated on by Pittsburgh Ear Associates uses chart review, telephone interview, and mail questionnaire data. Fifty-four patients received AFG dural repair, and 54 patients received HAC. Results: Seven AFG patients (12.5%) had CSF leaks versus 2 (3.7%) of the overall group of 54 HAC patients. However, none (0%) of the 47 HAC patients had CSF leakage with current HAC techniques. HAC also produced significantly less postauricular wound depression and superior cosmetic results in comparison with AFG. Although HAC patients experienced less postoperative discomfort, wound complications requiring medical or surgical intervention were extremely uncommon in both groups. Conclusion: HAC offers significant CSF leakage control and long-term cosmetic and comfort advantages over AFG alone. We recommend HAC as the standard closure technique for translabyrinthine acoustic neuroma surgery. (Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2002;126:512-7.)
Happiness: unlocking the mysteries of psychological wealth, by Ed Diener and Robert Biswas-Diener

Happiness: unlocking the mysteries of psychological wealth, by Ed Diener and Robert Biswas-Diener, Malden, MA, USA, Blackwell Publishing, 2008, 290 pp., ISBN: 978-1-405-14661-6. Currently, there ar...
Cadmium isotope fractionation during adsorption to Mn oxyhydroxide at low and high ionic strength

Abstract Marine ferromanganese sediments represent one of the largest sinks from global seawater for Zn, a critical trace metal nutrient. These sediments are variably enriched in heavier isotopes of Zn relative to deep seawater, and some are among the heaviest natural samples analyzed to date. New experimental results demonstrate that adsorption of Zn to poorly crystalline Mn oxyhydroxide results in preferential association of heavier isotopes with the sorbent phase. At low ionic strength our experimental system displayed a short-lived kinetic isotope effect, with light isotopes adsorbed to birnessite (Δ66/64Znadsorbed-dissolved ∼ −0.2‰). After 100 h the sense of fractionation was opposite, such that heavier isotopes were preferentially adsorbed at steady state, but the magnitude of Δ66/64Znadsorbed-dissolved was indistinguishable from zero (+0.05 ± 0.08‰). At high ionic strength, we observed preferential sorption of heavy isotopes, with a strong negative correlation between Δ66/64Znadsorbed-dissolved and the percentage of Zn on the birnessite. Values of Δ66/64Znadsorbed-dissolved ranged from nearly +3‰ at low surface loading to +0.16‰ at high surface loading. Based on previous EXAFS work we infer that Zn adsorbs first as tetrahedral, inner-sphere complexes at low surface loading, with preferential incorporation of heavier isotopes relative to the octahedral Zn species predominating in solution. As surface loading increases, so does the proportion of Zn adsorbing as octahedral complexes, thus diminishing the magnitude of fractionation between the dissolved and adsorbed pools of Zn. The magnitude of fractionation at high ionic strength is also governed by aqueous speciation of Zn in synthetic seawater; a substantial fraction of Zn ions reside in chloro complexes, which preferentially incorporate light Zn isotopes, and this drives the adsorbed pool to be heavier relative to the bulk solution than it was at low ionic strength. Our results explain the observation that ferromanganese sediments are enriched in heavier isotopes of Zn relative to deep seawater. This represents a step towards building a robust mass balance model for Zn isotopes in the oceans and potentially using Zn isotopes to trace biogeochemical cycling of this important element in the modern and ancient oceans.
Green evolution: are economic incentives the next step in nonpoint source pollution control?

Abstract Pollution from agriculture remains one of the United States’ most vexing water pollution problems. Conventional wisdom asserts that agricultural pollution control is best accomplished using voluntary ‘Best Management Practices’, and that quantitative discharge limits and economic incentives are impractical. Recent experience in California demonstrates otherwise. Here, quantitative limits on selenium discharges have been imposed on a regional consortium of farm districts. The consortium has developed a relatively streamlined institutional system that uses tradable discharge permits to enforce the limits. Individual districts use tiered water pricing and other mechanisms to control discharges. Agricultural pollution from the region has decreased.
Quantum-number dimensional-scaling analysis for excited states of multielectron atoms

A dimensional-scaling method for the calculation of excited states of multielectron atoms is introduced. By including the principle and orbital quantum numbers in the dimension parameter, we obtain an energy expression for excited states including high angular momentum states. The method is tested on He, Li, and Be. We obtain good agreement with more orthodox quantum mechanical treatments even in the zeroth order.
Functional competence and monoclonal antibody reactivity of neutrophils from cows injected with Escherichia coli endotoxin

Neutrophils of cows injected with endotoxin were evaluated for their functional competence and monoclonal antibody binding in relation to morphological maturity. Six clinically healthy lactating Holstein cows were each injected intravenously with 100 μg Escherichia coli endotoxin. Blood was collected at 0, 6, 30, 54, 78 and 150 hours postinjection for total and differential leucocyte counts and to isolate neutrophils for functional assays. Marked leucopenia, neutropenia with left shift to band neutrophils, lymphopenia and monocytopenia were evident at 6 h postinjection. Neutrophil and lymphocyte counts normalised by 30 hours, while band neutrophils remained elevated until 54 hours postinjection.
Microearthquake survey of Median Valley of the Mid-Atlantic ridge at 36°30'N

MICROEARTHQUAKE activity in the median valley of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge near 36°30′N has been monitored using expendable radio-sonobuoy arrays. Similar techniques have been used by Reid et al.1 in the Gulf of California, Macdonald and Mudie2 near the Galapagos spreading centre and recently by Reid and Macdonald3 near fracture zones A and B shown in Fig. 1 (ref. 4). This study provides area coverage not obtained by Reid and Macdonald whose experiment was confined to the fracture zone regions. A new method of sonobuoy position determination was used that provides relative buoy locations (locations with respect to each other) to within ±10 m. The ultimate positioning capability in latitude and longitude depends on the accuracy of the primary navigation system available. Satellite navigation can yield absolute positions to within ±100 m. An estimated actual accuracy of ±200 m is ascribed to the experiments reported here. Accuracy of this order allows correlation of epicentre locations with topographic features of similar scale size. Recently acquired bathymetric data (K. C. Macdonald and colleagues, in preparation) indicate that significant features of the ridge near 36°30′N, such as transform faults and valley walls, can be defined by scale sizes of some hundreds of metres, A total of 112 events definitely attributable to seismic activity were recorded in 72 h of listening, yielding an average rate of occurrence of 1.5 events h−1.
A mandibular first molar with five canals: report of case

This report presents a case report and literature review that show the root canal system to be a variable entity and emphasize the need for the practitioner to perform a complete examination of the pulpal floor of the tooth even after the anticipated number of canal orifices is identified.
Toward optimized high-relaxivity MRI agents: the effect of ligand basicity on the thermodynamic stability of hexadentate hydroxypyridonate/catecholate gadolinium(III) complexes.

The thermodynamic stabilities of the Gd III complexes of five hexadentate ligands, which incorporate the 2,3-dihydroxyterephthalamide and 2,3-hydroxypyridonate chelating moieties, have been determined by potentiometric and spectrophotometric titration. The ligands were chosen to span a range of basicities while maintaining a similar tripodal structural motif, facilitating a study of the effect of ligand basicity on the thermodynamic stability of the Gd III complexes. The relative stability of the five complexes is found to be highly pH dependent, with the most acidic ligands forming the most stable complexes at low pH and more basic ligands forming more stable complexes at high pH. The most stable Gd III complex at a physiological pH of 7.4 is formed with a ligand of intermediate basicity and is of stability comparable to that of Gd III complexes that feature eight-coordinate amino-carboxylate ligands and are currently used as magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents in diagnostic medicine. A single-crystal X-ray structure of the intermediate compound 3-hydroxy-6-methyl-2-oxo-1,2-dihydropyridine-4-carboxylic acid ethyl ester is described: This compound crystallizes in the triclinic space group P1 with a ) 7.4801(3) A, b ) 8.0671(3) A, c ) 8.3457(4) A, R) 72.242(2)°, ‚ ) 80.693(2)°, A ) 69.943(3)°, V ) 449.60(3) A 3 , Z ) 2, and R ) 0.042.
Multiwavelet grading of prostate pathological images

We have developed image analysis methods to automatically grade pathological images of prostate. The proposed method generates Gleason grades to images, where each image is assigned a grade between 1 and 5. This is done using features extracted from multiwavelet transformations. We extract energy and entropy features from submatrices obtained in the decomposition. Next, we apply a k-NN classifier to grade the image. To find optimal multiwavelet basis, preprocessing, and classifier, we use features extracted by different multiwavelets with either critically sampled preprocessing or repeated row preprocessing and different k-NN classifiers and compare their performances, evaluated by total misclassification rate (TMR). To evaluate sensitivity to noise, we add white Gaussian noise to images and compare the results (TMR's). We applied proposed methods to 100 images. We evaluated the first and second levels of decomposition using Geronimo, Hardin, and Massopust (GHM), Chui and Lian (CL), and Shen (SA4) multiwavelets. We also evaluated k-NN classifier for k=1,2,3,4,5. Experimental results illustrate that first level of decomposition is quite noisy. They also show that critically sampled preprocessing outperforms repeated row preprocessing and has less sensitivity to noise. Finally, comparison studies indicate that SA4 multiwavelet and k-NN classifier (k=1) generates optimal results (with smallest TMR of 3%).
Voice of the voiceless? Multiethnic student voices in critical approaches to race, pedagogy, literacy and agency

Abstract In this article, the author utilizes critical and sociocultural approaches to race, language and culture to examine the intersectional experiences of a multiethnic and ‘mixed race’ cohort of students in an inner-city, working-class neighborhood between their elementary and high school years. This article examines the students’ experiences in a nine-year educational process focused on critical pedagogy, sociocultural learning, and community engagement in and out of classrooms. More specifically, the article looks at interview, participant observation, and narrative data with a Latina/o and Asian American male student, and an Asian American female student, and how they made sense of their experiences over time with regards to issues of race, pedagogy, literacy, and agency.
Pinacolyl methyl phosphonate (PMP) detection by molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP): A labile covalent bonding approach

Abstract Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIP) have become increasingly important in the area of separation and detection. They are emerging tools for the design of structured porous materials having a precise arrangement of functional groups within pores of controlled size and shape. In the present study, covalent molecular imprinting was achieved by using styrene and di-acrylate monomers together with covalently tethered nerve agent (NA) analogs. Due to the nonpersistent nature of this class of nerve agents, the covalent attachment ensures the integrity of the analyte as opposed to a non-covalent approach where the decomposition products of pinacolyl methyl phosphonate (PMP) can lead to a variety of binding cavities based upon the nature of the decomposed products. The binding affinity of the imprinted polymers to the NA analogs, as studied by colorimetric methods, was found to be efficient and highly selective. Download : Download full-size image
From Alien to Elector: Citizenship and Belonging in the Global City

Researchers have productively explored how global cities manage transnational processes, and in turn are transformed by them. Surprisingly, however, this scholarship stands mute on the question of the relationship of these cities to the institutions of the nation-state. This paper argues that by re-imbedding global cities within the institutional context of the nation-state, scholars can productively explore whether and how these cities may transform state sovereignty. I elaborate this argument by illustrating how the politics of citizenship within cities increasingly challenges the state's capacity to construct and maintain a political community. The paper presents case studies of four cities that have considered enfranchising immigrants. I find that although the politics of citizenship within global cities partially unbundles the institutional logic of citizenship and nationhood, state institutions nevertheless continue to shape the rights and opportunities of noncitizens. To explain observed difference...
Functional neuroanatomy of psychopathy

Abstract Psychopathy has been characterized as a psychiatric disorder consisting of emotional deficits (shallow affect, remorselessness, and lack of shame), antisocial behaviour (impulsivity, irresponsibility, and poor behaviour controls), and interpersonal features (conning/manipulative, superficial charm, and pathological lying). In this article, structural and functional imaging findings on psychopathy are reviewed and several hypotheses are provided with regard to the neural bases of psychopathy. It is proposed that the emotional deficits are associated with impairments in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), amygdala–hippocampus complex, and the insula, whereas antisocial behaviour may be linked to deficits in the OFC, ACC, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and superior temporal gyrus. On the other hand, differences in the white matter of the OFC, ACC, and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex may contribute to the pathological lying behaviour often seen in psychopathic individuals. A discussion is also presented on the topic of successful vs unsuccessful psychopaths, suggesting the absence of brain abnormalities, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus, in successful psychopaths, and how these findings have furthered our knowledge of the neuropathology underlying psychopathy.
The March 25, 1998 Antarctic Plate Earthquake

The March 25, 1998, Antarctic plate earthquake (Mw=8.1) occurred ∼250 km from the nearest plate boundary, in oceanic lithosphere with an age of 35–55 my. Analysis of aftershock patterns shows that the earthquake ruptured a fault, or series of strike-slip fault segments, nearly 300 km long. The strike of the fault(s) is nearly perpendicular to the north-south trending fossil fracture zones which are the most marked bathymetric features of this region. Moment release during the mainshock was concentrated in two large subevents, clearly visible in the teleseismic body wave waveforms. Modeling of these body waves using a finite fault source places the first of the two subevents near the point of rupture initiation, on the eastern end of the fault, with the second large subevent occurring 220–280 km to the west. The two pulses of moment release are found to be separated in time by ∼65 s. Comparison of the relative S wave amplitudes of the first and second pulses suggests that a rotation of the focal mechanism by ∼10° occurred between the two subevents.
A Sub-0.2 $^{\circ}/$ hr Bias Drift Micromechanical Silicon Gyroscope With Automatic CMOS Mode-Matching

This paper describes a system architecture and CMOS implementation that leverages the inherently high mechanical quality factor (Q) of a MEMS gyroscope to improve performance. The proposed time domain scheme utilizes the often-ignored residual quadrature error in a gyroscope to achieve, and maintain, perfect mode-matching (i.e., ~ 0 Hz split between the high-Q drive and sense mode frequencies), as well as electronically control the sensor bandwidth. A CMOS IC and control algorithm have been interfaced with a 60 mum thick silicon mode-matched tuning fork gyroscope (M2-mathchar TFG) to implement an angular rate sensing microsystem with a bias drift of 0.16deg/hr. The proposed technique allows microsystem reconfigurability-the sensor can be operated in a conventional low-pass mode for larger bandwidth, or in matched mode for low-noise. The maximum achieved sensor Q is 36,000 and the bandwidth of the microsensor can be varied between 1 to 10 Hz by electronic control of the mechanical frequencies. The maximum scale factor of the gyroscope is 88 mV/deg/s . The 3 V IC is fabricated in a standard 0.6 mum CMOS process and consumes 6 mW of power with a die area of 2.25 mm2.
A Fuzzy Inverse Model Construction Method for General Monotonic Multi-Input-- Single-Output (MISO) Systems

This paper presents a novel method of systematically constructing a fuzzy inverse model for general multi-input-single-output (MISO) systems represented with triangular input membership functions, singleton output membership function, and fuzzy-mean defuzzification. The fuzzy inverse model construction method has the ability of uniquely determining the inverse relationship for each input-output pair. It is derived in a straightforward way and the required input variables can be simultaneously obtained by the fuzzy inferencing calculation to realize the desired output value. Simulation examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method to find the inverse kinematics solutions for complex multiple degree-of-freedom industrial robot manipulators.
Elemental analysis by gamma-ray detection following inelastic neutron scattering

A method of elemental analysis based on the detection of prompt γ-rays produced by the inelastic scattering of fast monoenergetic neutrons has been investigated. Time-of-flight discrimination techniques and the use of Ge(Li) detectors provide significant advances over previous studies. This method is multielemental, non-destructive, and essentially free of interferences and matrix effects. Sample analysis is rapid and selective excitation of various elements is possible. Many elements have been examined by this technique and minimum detection limits have been established. This method has been applied to the analysis of metal alloys.
Initiation of lytic DNA replication in Epstein–Barr virus: search for a common family mechanism

Herpesviruses are a complex family of dsDNA viruses that are a major cause of human disease. All family members share highly related viral replication proteins, such as DNA polymerase, ssDNA-binding proteins and processivity factors. Consequently, it is generally thought that lytic replication occurs through a common and conserved mechanism. However, considerable evidence indicates that proteins controlling initiation of DNA replication vary greatly among the herepesvirus subfamilies. In this article, we focus on some of the known mechanisms that regulate Epstein-Barr virus lytic-cycle replication, and compare this to other herpesvirus family members. Our reading of the literature leads us to conclude that diverse viral mechanisms generate a common nucleoprotein prereplication structure that can be recognized by a highly conserved family of viral replication enzymes.
Hemoglobin degradation in malaria-infected erythrocytes determined from live cell magnetophoresis

During intra-erythrocytic development, malaria trophozoites digest hemoglobin, which leads to parasite growth and asexual replication while accumulating toxic heme. To avoid death, the parasite synthesizes insoluble hemozoin crystals in the digestive vacuole through polymerization of beta-hematin dimers. In the process, the heme is converted to a high-spin ferriheme whose magnetic properties were studied as early as 1936 by Pauling et al. Here, by magnetophoretic cell motion analysis, we provide evidence for a graduated increase of live cell magnetic susceptibility with developing blood-stage parasites, compatible with the increase in hemozoin content and the mechanism used by P. falciparum to avoid heme toxicity. The measured magnetophoretic mobility of the erythrocyte infected with a late-stage schizont form was m = 2.94 x 10(-6) mm3 s/kg, corresponding to the net volume magnetic susceptibility (relative to water) of Deltachi = 1.80 x 10(-6), significantly higher than that of the oxygenated erythrocyte (-0.18x10(-6)) but lower than that of the fully deoxygenated erythrocyte (3.33x10(-6)). The corresponding fraction of hemoglobin converted to hemozoin, calculated based on the known magnetic susceptibilities of hemoglobin heme and hemozoin ferriheme, was 0.50, in agreement with the published biochemical and crystallography data. Magnetophoretic analysis of live erythrocytes could become significant for antimalarial drug susceptibility and resistance determination.
Métodos empíricos em pesquisa do envelhecimento entre minorias: um caso para triangulação sociológica

A triangulacao, ha muito, vem sendo empregada para validar estudos cujos resultados sao alvo de criticas por basearem-se em amostras muito pequenas ou por nao permitirem generalizacao. Com um foco especial no uso de multiplas fontes de dados quantitativos, expandimos o uso da triangulacao em um contexto sociologico, argumentando que nao so a sociologia e um campo apto ao uso da combinacao de diferentes bases de dados, mas que esta e uma ferramenta util ao se analisarem populacoes de dificil acesso e menos favorecidas. Destacando exemplos de multiplas bases de dados empregadas usualmente para explorar questoes sobre o envelhecimento de pessoas de origem latino-americana nos Estados Unidos, discutimos como estas distintas fontes podem ser aplicadas para fortalecer os resultados. Concluimos, discutindo a aplicacao da triangulacao como um meio de tornar as analises sociologicas acessiveis e relevantes para o campo das politicas, o que acreditamos ser um esforco necessario para assegurar uma perspectiva sociologica no âmbito mais amplo da discussao de politicas.
Theoretical performance of a mobile GPS linked pulsed ring down array

The development of mobile Pulsed Ring Down Source (PRDS) arrays requires the ability to accurately determine the relative positions of array elements at distances, and in situations, where discrete measurements are not practical. At the frequencies of interest, centimeter level accuracy is required for the array to localize radiated energy at a given target location. Global Positioning System (GPS) devices and techniques are evaluated for the purpose of position acquisition. Previously a Monte Carlo simulation was developed that takes into account the position error, the GPS timing error, and the switch jitter of the element. The error sources are combined and used a metric to evaluate and predict the array performance. Results of the GPS device testing, as well as previous work, are used as the input parameters of the simulation to determine their viability for use in the implementation of PRDS arrays capable of radiating at frequencies of up to 500 MHz.
Nasal surgery for sleep apnea patients

Surgery for nasal obstruction has beneficial effects on nocturnal nasal breathing in patients with snoring and/or sleep disordered breathing. It may improve both conditions as well as facilitate the use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure. A variety of procedures are available to correct obstruction secondary to septum, turbinate, or nasal valve abnormalities. Several effective techniques are described.
Liver transplantation: Intraoperative changes in coagulation factors in 100 first transplants

Six intraoperative blood samples were obtained at intervals from each of 100 individuals undergoing their first liver transplants. The patients fell into the following diagnostic categories: postnecrotic cirrhosis 28, primary biliary cirrhosis 20, sclerosing cholangitis 19, miscellaneous diseases 14, carcinoma/neoplasia 12 and fulminant hepatitis 7. Coagulation factor values in the initial (baseline) blood samples varied by patient diagnosis. In general, all factor levels were reduced except factor VIII:C, which was increased to almost twice normal. The slight intraoperative changes in factors II, VII, IX, X, XI and XII suggested that a steady-state relationship existed between depletion (consumption/bleeding) and repletion (transfusion, transit from extra- to intravascular space), even in the anhepatic state. In contrast, there were rapid and very significant falls in factor VIII and fibrinogen and a less pronounced decrease in factor V, all reaching their nadirs in early to mid-Stage III. The cause of these coagulation changes appears to be activation of the fibrinolytic system.
ENHANCED IMAGE RESOLUTION OF DUAL-MODE ULTRASOUND ARRAY USING CODED EXCITATION

We have previously shown that a prototype 64-element 1 MHz concave DMUA has lateral and axial resolution 1.1 mm and 2.6 mm. While the lateral resolution is acceptable and compares favorably with abdominal diagnostic probes, the axial resolution is very poor. It must be improved by a factor of 2 or more to provide more uniform resolution. We have investigated the use of coded excitation and pseudoinverse filtering for enhancing the axial resolution of DMUA. Image data were collected from a 3D quality assurance phantom with an egg-shaped contrast target. The contrast ratio was 3.35, 7.8, and 6.6 and the axial resolution was 2.6, 2.5, and 1.65 mm for conventional pulse-echo, matched filter compression and inverse filter compression, respectively. Thus one can see that approximately 33% improvement in resolution was achievable without significant loss in contrast ratio.
The FAIRSERV Model: Consumer Reactions to Services Based on a Multidimensional Evaluation of Service Fairness

The current dominant conceptualization of consumer reactions to services is the SERVQUAL model. This article proposes the FAIRSERV model as an alternative or additional conceptualization of consumer reactions to services. FAIRSERV involves seeing service evaluation through the lens of organizational fairness (justice) theory applied to the relationship between the service consumer and the service provider. FAIRSERV is premised on the claim that, especially in relational service contexts, consumers are interested in service fairness as well as service quality (service favorableness) as represented by SERVQUAL. Service fairness or justice is a multidimensional construct based on equity theory. In this article, the FAIRSERV model is tested with the SERVQUAL model in the context of information system services. The two models are used to predict service satisfaction and repatronage intention. The FAIRSERV model appears to add a significant new set of predictors of service satisfaction and repatronage intention that should be considered in the future by service providers.
Partitioning real-time tasks among heterogeneous multiprocessors

Given a collection of tasks that comprise the software for a real-time system, and a collection of available processing units of different kinds upon which to execute them, the heterogeneous multiprocessor partitioning problem is concerned with determining whether the given tasks can be partitioned among the available processing units in such a manner that all timing constraints are met. It is known that this problem is intractable; efficient implementations of sufficient (albeit not necessary) partitioning algorithms are presented here, and proved correct.
Evaluating the Functional Importance of Neuroadaptions in Addiction

Studies in animal models, and to a lesser extent in humans, have revealed a wide range of long-lasting adaptations in neuronal excitability, synaptic function, neuron architecture, and expression of genes associated with neural plasticity after exposure to drugs or alcohol. Similar alterations have been observed in individuals with differential genetic vulnerabilities for substance abuse. As the techniques for identifying neural adaptations have multiplied and data have accumulated at a rapid pace, it has become clear that there is a formidable problem in determining which adaptations are critical for establishing and maintaining addiction, and which are not[1,2]. Two NIDA-supported symposia at the 2007 Society for Neurosciences (SFN) meeting address this problem. A symposium in the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Frontiers in Addiction Research Miniconvention, “Neuronal Adaptations and Counteradaptations”, showcases three very different approaches in presentations by Robert Malenka, L. Judson Chandler, and Lorna Role. An SFN symposium, “Reconciling Molecular and Electrophysiological Evidence of Cocaine-Induced Neural Plasticity”, focuses on the apparent contradiction between molecular and neurophysiological changes in nucleus accumbens and recent studies that attempt to resolve this contradiction in presentations by Marina Wolf, Mark Thomas, Xiu-Ti Hu, and Laura Peoples. These symposia are represented by two papers in this issue[3,4].
Triclosan Exposure Modulates Estrogen-Dependent Responses in the Female Wistar Rat

Triclosan is an antimicrobial found in personal care and sanitizing products, such as soaps, toothpaste, and hair products. There have been recent concerns for the possible effects on human health, as triclosan has been detected in human breast milk, blood, and urine samples. In a previous study, we found that triclosan alters serum thyroid hormone and testosterone concentrations in male rats. In the current study, we evaluated the effects of triclosan in the female Wistar rat following exposure for 21 days in the Endocrine Disruptor Screening Program pubertal protocol and the weanling uterotrophic assay (3-day exposure). In the pubertal study, triclosan advanced the age of onset of vaginal opening and increased uterine weight at 150 mg/kg, indicative of an estrogenic effect. In the uterotrophic assay, rats received oral doses of triclosan (1.18, 2.35, 4.69, 9.37, 18.75, 37.5, 75, 150, and 300 mg/kg) alone, 3 microg/kg ethinyl estradiol (EE), or triclosan (same doses as above) plus 3 microg/kg EE. Uterine weight was increased in the EE group (positive control) as compared with the control but was not affected by triclosan alone. However, there was a significant dose-dependent increase in the group cotreated with EE and triclosan (>or= 4.69 mg/kg) as compared with EE alone, indicating a potentiation of the estrogen response on uterine weight. This result was well correlated with potentiated estrogen-induced changes in uterine histology. Serum thyroid hormone concentrations were also suppressed by triclosan in this study, similar to other studies in the male and female rat. In conclusion, triclosan affected estrogen-mediated responses in the pubertal and weanling female rat and also suppressed thyroid hormone in both studies. The lowest effective concentrations in the rodent model are approximately 10 (for estrogen) and 40 (for thyroid hormone) times higher than the highest concentrations reported in human plasma.
The Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells 2 Binds Apolipoprotein E

The triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is an Ig-like V-type receptor expressed by populations of myeloid cells in the central nervous system and periphery. Loss-of-function mutations in TREM2 cause a progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disorder called Nasu-Hakola disease. In addition, a TREM2 R47H coding variant was recently identified as a risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer disease. TREM2 binds various polyanionic molecules but no specific protein ligands have been identified. Here we show that TREM2 specifically binds apolipoprotein E, a well established participant in Alzheimer disease. TREM2-Ig fusions efficiently precipitate ApoE from cerebrospinal fluid and serum. TREM2 also binds recombinant ApoE in solution and immobilized ApoE as detected by ELISA. Furthermore, the Alzheimer disease-associated R47H mutation, and other artificial mutations introduced in the same location, markedly reduced the affinity of TREM2 for ApoE. These findings reveal a link between two Alzheimer disease risk factors and may provide important clues to the pathogenesis of Nasu-Hakola disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Freeform drop-on-demand laser printing of 3D alginate and cellular constructs

Laser printing is an orifice-free printing approach and has been investigated for the printing of two-dimensional patterns and simple three-dimensional (3D) constructs. To demonstrate the potential of laser printing as an effective bioprinting technique, both straight and Y-shaped tubes have been freeform printed using two different bioinks: 8% alginate solution and 2% alginate-based mouse fibroblast suspension. It has been demonstrated that 3D cellular tubes, including constructs with bifurcated overhang structures, can be adequately fabricated under optimal printing conditions. The post-printing cell viabilities immediately after printing as well as after 24 h incubation are above 60% for printed straight and Y-shaped fibroblast tubes. During fabrication, overhang and spanning structures can be printed using a dual-purpose crosslinking solution, which also functions as a support material. The advancement distance of gelation reaction front after a cycle time of the receiving platform downward motion should be estimated for experimental planning. The optimal downward movement step size of receiving platform should be chosen to be equal to the height of ungelled portion of a previously printed layer.
The Modern Kabbalists

During the twelfth century there evolved in central Europe a mystic movement of Jewish devotees, the kabbalists, whose belief in the transcendence of God led them to the Ein Sofi the infinite. According to the Kabbalah (in Hebrew: “tradition”), God is revealed to man only through His virtues and deeds, never directly as Himself; the many references to God in the scriptures are only allusions to His manifestations. In their search for spiritual fulfillment, the kabbalists were seeking a path to the divine spirit, if not to God Himself. This they achieved through a system of ten sephirot (literally: “spheres,” and also “enumerations”), emanating from the Ein Sof (“endless”), which became the symbol for the hidden God (Fig. 22.1). The upper sphere, the one closest to the Ein Sof, was called the “crown”; next came the spheres of “wisdom,” “intelligence,” “mercy,” and so on down to the lowest sphere, the “kingdom.” It is only through the ten sephirot, according to the kabbalists, that one can approach the divine spirit; perhaps we can find here a subtle reference to the mathematical idea of limit, of an infinite series whose sum we can only approach, never reach. The kabbalists depicted their sephirot in various geometric forms, as in Fig. 22.1.
Applied microbiology in animal nutrition.

Publisher Summary Microorganisms, including bacteria, molds, and yeasts, are a source of vitamins, antibiotics, proteins and amino acids, enzymes, and related factors used in animal rations to improve feed efficiency and increase the rate of growth. Cereal grains, oilseed meals, and other agricultural products are the principal raw materials from which these feed supplements are derived by fermentation processes. This chapter is designed to bring together information about some applications of microbiology to animal nutrition, particularly of microbial products as feed additives to promote animal growth. The products discussed are obtained by microbial processes. Consideration is given to the various processes, particularly from the standpoint of the principal microbial sources and methods of production. The chapter gives references to sources of information which may be consulted by those interested in the more detailed aspects of fermentation processes, microorganisms, animal nutrition, and related subjects.
Provider-Sponsored Organizations

The health care financing and delivery systems have experienced dramatic change in the last decade in response to ever-increasing health care costs. The increased use of managed care is one of the most significant changes. It is estimated that nearly 75 percent of all insured workers in the United States are enrolled in managed care plans. In addition, the percentage of Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in health maintenance organizations (HMOs) has increased dramatically.