cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Postbuckling behavior of infinite beams on elastic foundations using Koiter's improved theory

Abstract This study deals with the postbuckling behavior of infinite beams on non-linear elastic foundations subjected to axial compression. The analysis utilizes an improved Koiter's postbuckling theory such that the postbuckling coefficients are evaluated at the actual applied load rather than at the classical buckling load. The improved postbuckling paths are found to agree well with the non-linear large deflection solution using the Ritz procedure. This paper substantiates Koiter's conjecture that the general theory of elastic stability may be improved. The implications of various lower-bound buckling loads are examined.
Sound wave propagation through incompressible flows

Abstract This paper derives a variable coefficient, multidimensional Burgers equation which models the propagation of a nonlinear sound wave through an incompressible background flow. The equation is derived from the compressible Euler equations by the combination of a weakly nonlinear acoustics expansion for the sound wave and an incompressible expansion for the background flow. The main effect of the incompressible flow on the sound wave is the advection of the sound wave by the transverse velocity component of the flow.
Preliminary associations between motor procedural learning, basal ganglia T2 relaxation times, and tardive dyskinesia in schizophrenia

The hypothesis that the caudate nucleus is involved in the pathophysiology of tardive dyskinesia (TD) in schizophrenia was investigated by examining motor procedural learning on the pursuit rotor task and basal ganglia T2 relaxation times (T2) determined using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Increased severity of TD was associated with shortened caudate T2 and decreased motor learning. Motor-learning scores of schizophrenic patients with and without TD did not differ significantly from those of normal control subjects, but motor learning in the schizophrenic patients correlated with caudate T2. The results suggest that a corticocaudate system subserves motor procedural learning and provide converging evidence from neuropsychological and MRI measures suggesting caudate involvement in TD.
Electroencephalographic studies, induced seizures, and their modification by phenobarbital, dilantin, and phenurone, in the salamanders, Triturus viridescens and Ambystoma tigrinum.

1. 1. It has been shown that the brains of the salamanders, Triturus viridescens and Ambystoma tigrinum, exhibit characteristic patterns of electrical activity when recorded with standard electroencephalographic techniques. This recording can be made by direct placement of electrodes on meningeal surfaces of the brain or by insertion of leads into the skull. The basic pattern of electrical activity in untreated salamanders and the alterations of this pattern due to artifacts were determined. 2. 2. Metrazol consistently produced convulsive states involving both tonic and clonic phases as shown by behavior and EEG recordings. The clonic phase of the more alert salamander, Triturus, is more violent than that of Ambystoma. The convulsive inducing properties of Metrazol are modified and inhibited in some salamanders by phenurone and phenobarbital, and affected very little by Dilantin.
Psychological foundations of olympic wrestling excellence: Reconciling individual differences and nomothetic characterization

Abstract This manusuipt presents a portion of a larger study fuaded by a grant From USA This manuscript is one in a series presenting results of an in-depth investigation of the 1988 US Olympic Wrestling team regarding psychological factors influencing performance in the Seoul Olympics. Previous reports have shown clear nomothetic differences between medal and nonmedal winning wrestlers (Gould, Eklund, & Jackson, 1992a, 1992b, 1992c). This particular article focuses on identifying individual differences among the six medal winning wrestlers. Results revealed that clear and important individual differences existed in the medalists' Perceptions of expectations placed upon them and the content and complexity of their preperformancc mental preparation strategies. These findines show that focusing on nomothetic consistency and aggregathg over subjects to remove individual “error” or foCusing only on individual Werences and ignoring nomothetic consistency is not as useful as Silverstein's (1988) “Aristotelian R...
Clinical investigations in hepatic encephalopathy: Applications of proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

A primary goal of this work was to demonstrate that 1 H magnetic resonancespectroscopic techniques can be used to understand the neurochemistry noninvasively in hepatic encephalopathy. In Phase I, cerebral metabolite levels were quantified relative to creatine in patients (n=17) with sub clinical and mild hepatic encephalopathy using a GE 1.5T MRI scanner with a standard head MRI coil. A STEAM sequence was used to localize a voxel in the parietal white matter. Some of these patients were scanned again after they received a liver transplantation (n=9). Neuropsychological assessment was done with a battery of neuropsychologic tests. In Phase II, the absolute levels of cerebral metabolite levels were measured in ambulant patients awaiting liver transplantation (n=21). In addition to the parietal white matter, the prefrontal cortex was also localized for the MRS study using a PRESS sequence with TR=3 s, TE=30 ms, and NS=128. Phase I results showed a significant reduction in mI/Cr, a small decline in Cho/Cr, and an increase in Glx/Cr in patients when compared to healthy controls. The patients did not return to normal cerebral metabolic states within 60 days of liver transplantation. The absolute levels in Phase II results showed an increase in creatine, and glutamine/glutamate, a decrease in myoinositol, and no significant change in choline in patients compared to healthy controls. A significant correlation was found between the magnetic resonancespectroscopy findings and the neuropsychologic tests in both Phase I and Phase II studies. The results emphasize the role of multiple neurotransmitter systems in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy.
Introduction of the fire ant decapitating fly Pseudacteon obtusus in the United States: factors influencing establishment in Texas

The introduction and establishment of Pseudacteon obtusus Borgmeier (Diptera: Phoridae) into the United States is an important milestone in the effort to introduce a suite of parasitoids and pathogens as prospective biocontrol agents of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae).P. obtusus is the fourth species of phorid fly to be established in the US and is now present in at least 11 sites in Texas. This species has a greater propensity for attacking foraging worker ants, and to a lesser degree it will attend mound disturbance events. The effectiveness of alternate field release strategies was evaluated across 28 sites in Texas, with establishment success 35 times more likely when no other phorid species were present at the outset of the releases. This result implies that competition between phorid species may interfere with establishment. Therefore release strategies should be directed to locations lacking other naturalized species or to times when abundances of other species are low.
Human vision model for the objective evaluation of perceived image quality applied to MRI and image restoration

We are developing a method to objectively quantify image quality and applying it to the optimization of interventional magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI). In iMRI, images are used for live-time guidance of interventional procedures such as the minimally invasive treatment of cancer. Hence, not only does one desire high quality images, but they must also be acquired quickly. In iMRI, images are acquired in the Fourier domain, or k-space, and this allows many creative ways to image quickly such as keyhole imaging where k-space is preferentially subsampled, yielding suboptimal images at very high frame rates. Other techniques include spiral, radial, and the combined acquisition technique. We have built a perceptual difference model (PDM) that incorporates various components of the human visual system. The PDM was validated using subjective image quality ratings by naive observers and task-based measures defined by interventional radiologists. Using the PDM, we investigated the effects of various imaging parameters on image quality and quantified the degradation due to novel imaging techniques. Results have provided significant information about imaging time versus quality tradeoffs aiding the MR sequence engineer. The PDM has also been used to evaluate other applications such as Dixon fat suppressed MRI and image restoration. In image restoration, the PDM has been used to evaluate the Generalized Minimal Residual (GMRES) image restoration method and to examine the ability to appropriately determine a stopping condition for such iterative methods. The PDM has been shown to be an objective tool for measuring image quality and can be used to determine the optimal methodology for various imaging applications.
Isothermal Microtube Heat Transfer With Second-Order Slip Flow and Temperature Jump Boundary Conditions

Two analytical models are presented in which the continuum momentum and energy equations, coupled with second-order slip flow and temperature jump boundary conditions, are solved. An isothermal boundary condition is applied to a microchannel with a circular cross section. The flow is assumed to be hydrodynamically fully developed and thermal field is either fully developed or thermally developing from the tube entrance. A traditional first-order slip boundary condition is found to over predict the slip velocity compared to the second-order model. Heat transfer increases at the upper limit of the slip regime for the second-order model. The maximum second-order correction to the first-order Nusselt number is on the order of 18% for air. The second-order effect is also more significant in the entrance region of the tube. The Nusselt number decreases relative to the no-slip value when slip and temperature jump effects are of the same order or when temperature jump effects dominate. When temperature jump effects are small, the Nusselt number increases relative to the no-slip value. Comparisons to a previously reported model for an isoflux boundary condition indicate that the Nusselt number for the isoflux boundary condition exceeds that for the isothermal case at all axial locations.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Relation of gonad hormones to x-irradiation sensitivity in mice.

Summary and ConclusionsThe differential in survival of male and female mice, when exposed to whole body x-irradiation. seems to be due in part to the gonadal hormone present. Intact males, with the normal quota of testosterone, have less survival value than do castrate males. Further, castrate males injected with the female hormone, estradiol benzoate, exhibit maximum survival, approaching that of the intact female.
Essentiality of the lateral cervical spine radiograph

Proper interpretation of the lateral cervical spine (C-spine) film is a prime emergency medicine responsibility. Patients with potential neck injury must be identified rapidly and handled carefully; their C-spine films must be interpreted quickly and accurately. We stress the urgency in obtaining a good, readable lateral C-spine film and present a systemic "ABCs" approach to reading this film. This approach includes specific, sequential attention to Alignment, Bony integrity, Cartilaginous structures, and the surrounding Soft-tissue spaces. In the cases of 50 consecutive patients with C-spine injuries (49 adults, one child) seen recently in our emergency medicine program, we have correlated traumatic mechanisms with specific injury patterns. These analyses have been meshed with data from the patients' medical records and radiographs. In a significant number of instances (greater than 25% in this series), objective, careful radiographic interpretation is more important to the patient's objective, careful radiographic interpretation is more important to the patient's welfare than is any other diagnostic modality -- including history and physical examination.
Framework silica structures generated using simulated annealing with a potential energy function based on an H 6 Si 2 O 7 molecule

A simulated annealing technique was used to search for global and local minimum energy structures of a potential energy model for silica. The model is based on ab initio SCF MO calculations on the disilicic acid molecule, H6Si2O7. Starting with 4 SiO2 units, with the atoms randomly distributed in the unit cell, 23 distinct silica tetrahedral framework structures were found, with a variety of space group symmetries and cell dimensions. Despite the assumption of P 1 space group symmetry for the starting structure, only 7 of the local minimum energy structures were found to possess triclinic symmetry with the remainder exhibiting symmetries ranging from P c to $$I\bar 42d$$ to within 0.001 A. Although the interaction potential for the disilicic acid molecule has a single minimum energy SiO bond length and SiOSi angle, the local minimum energy structures exhibit angles that range between 105° and 180° and bond lengths that range between 1.55 and 1.68 A. The correlation observed for coesite and the other silica polymorphs between SiO bond length and fs(O) is reproduced. The generated structures show a wide variety of coordination sequences, ring sizes and framework densities, the later ranging from 19.8 to 35.5 Si/1000 A3. The energies of these structures correlate with their framework densities, particularly for higher energy structures.
[Comment on “Changes in relative sea level”] Changes in sea level: The question of secular motion

I am writing this note in reference to one paragraph of a generally interesting report, “Changes in Relative Mean Sea Level’ [by the IAPSO Advisory Committee on Tides and Mean Sea Level], which appeared in the November 5, 1985 issue of Eos [p. 754]. In this paragraph the authors question the nature and even existence of the secular motion of the earth's rotation pole. The paragraph states that because of supposed extreme irregularities in the observed (ILS) motion, “it may even be that the entire apparent secular motion of the pole is an artifact of systematic efforts [this word should probably read ‘errors’] in the ILS” data.
A review of fault detection and diagnosis methodologies on air-handling units

Abstract Faults occurring in improper routine operations and poor preventive maintenance of heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems (HVAC&R) equipment result in excessive energy consumption. An air-handling unit (AHU) is one of the most extensively operated equipment in large commercial buildings. This device is typically customized and lacks of quality system integration, which can result in hardware failures and controller errors. This paper aims to provide a systematic review of existing fault detection and diagnosis (FDD) methods for an AHU therefore inspire new approaches with high performance in reality. For this goal, the background of AHU systems, general FDD framework and typical faults in AHUs, is described. Ten desirable characteristics used in a review of FDD in chemical process control are introduced to evaluate the methodologies and results. A new categorization method is proposed to better interpret the different and most recent approaches. The main FDD methodologies and hybrid approaches are described and commented to illustrate the use of evaluation standard parameters for improving the performance of FDD on AHUs.
Quantum properties of two-dimensional electron gas in the inversion layer of Hg1−xCdxTe bicyrstals

Abstract The electronic and magnetotransport properties of conduction electrons in the grain boundary interface of p-type Hg1−xCdxTe bicrystals are investigated. The results clearly demonstrate the existence of a two-dimensional degenerate n-type inversion layer in the vicinity of the grain boundary. Hydrostatic pressure up to 103 MPa is used to characterize the properties of the two-dimensional electron gas in the inversion layer. At atmospheric pressure three series of quantum oscillations are revealled, indicating that tthree electric subbands are occupied. From quantum oscilations of the magnetoresistivity the characteristics parameters of the electric subbands (subband populations nsi, subband energies EF−Ei, effective electron masses m∗ci) and their pressure dependences are established. A strong decrease of the carrier concentration in the inversion layer and of the corresponding subband population is observed when pressure is applied A simple theoretical model based on the triangular-well approximation and taking into account the pressure dependence of the energy band structure of Hg1−xCdxTe is use to calculate the energy band diagram of the quantum well and the pressure dependence of the subband parameters.
Mesoatrial Shunt: A New Treatment for the Budd-chiari Syndrome

A patient is presented with the Budd-Chiari Syndrome. Because of a thrombosed inferior vena cava, none of the standard portal-systemic shunts could be utilized for decompression of the engorged liver. A new shunt constructed by interposing a Dacron graft between the superior mesenteric vein and the right atrium was performed. Portal pressure was reduced by the shunt from 30 cm of H2O to 10 cm of H2O. Patency has been confirmed post-operatively by catheterization and with angiography. The patient is asymptomatic with normal liver function tests nine months following the procedure. A surgical approach is outlined for symptomatic patients with the Budd-Chairi Syndrom.
Anomalous fading of CaF2:Mn thermoluminescent dosimeters

Abstract A surprising effect encountered in the application of the thermoluminescence of CaF 2 :Mn to dosimetry is the initially high fading rate. This fading is much more rapid than would be expected considering the high-temperature, apparently uncomplicated glow curve of CaF 2 :Mn. This effect is present when rapid heating rates (∼20°C/min) are used to obtain the glow curve, but when slow heating rates (∼20°C/min) are employed no fading is observed. It was determined that the glow curve is a composite of several closely spaced components of varying stability. With rapid heating rates all the glow curve components are shifted upward in temperature, causing preferential thermal quenching of the stabler (higher temperature) components. The composite glow curve is thus distorted and the unstable components, being attenuated to a lesser degree, give a greater contribution to the thermoluminescence output.
Understanding #1: Discovering Science in Art, Literature, and Music

(1991). Understanding #1: Discovering Science in Art, Literature, and Music. Science Activities: Vol. 28, No. 1, pp. 10-13.
Functionalized Silicone Nanospheres: Synthesis, Transition Metal Immobilization, and Catalytic Applications

Silicone nanospheres containing a variety of functional groups (pyridines, phosphines, thiols, amines, etc.) have been prepared by emulsion copolymerization of methyltrimethoxysilane, MeSi(OMe)3, and the functionalized monomer of interest, RSi(OMe)3. This procedure provides a reproducible synthesis of spherical particles in the 12−28 nm size regime as determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The presence of the functional groups is supported by a combination of spectroscopic methods including DRUV−vis, DRIFTS, and NMR spectroscopy. Comonomer dispersity within the nanospheres was probed using elemental mapping techniques, and these support a homogeneous distribution of functional groups within the particles. Palladium(0) immobilization on phosphine-substituted nanospheres also results in a random distribution of the transition metal throughout the particles. Nanospheres containing multiple acid/base functionalities were also prepared, and these demonstrate functional group cooperativity based ...
Deposition of Coatings from Live Yeast Cells and Large Particles by “Convective-Sedimentation” Assembly

Convective assembly at high volume fraction was used for the rapid deposition of uniform, close-packed coatings of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast cells onto glass slides. A computational model was developed to calculate the thickness profiles of such coatings for different set of conditions. Both the experiments and the numerical simulations demonstrated that the deposition process is strongly affected by the presence of sedimentation. The deposition device was inclined to increase the uniformity of the coatings by causing the cells to sediment toward the three-phase contact line. In accordance with the simulation, the experiments showed that both increasing the angle of the device and decreasing the angle between the slides increased the uniformity of the deposited coatings. Finally, the “convective-sedimentation” assembly method was used to deposit mixed layers of live cells and large latex particles as an example of immobilized biologically active composite coatings.
Predicting low birthweight and complicated labor in urban black women: A biopsychosocial perspective

This study explored demographic, biomedical and psychosocial factors as predictors of two adverse pregnancy outcomes: intrapartum complications and low birthweight, in 140 urban black pregnant women. The intrapartum complication rate was 18%. A four factor equation (low family functioning, advanced maternal age, working during pregnancy, and short stature) predicted intrapartum complications (80% sensitivity, 67% specificity and 35% positive predictive value). The low birthweight rate was 14%. Four factors (low family functioning, stressful events, Quetelet's Index, and cigarette smoking) predicted low birthweight (65% sensitivity, 84% specificity and 42% positive predictive value). Family functioning, alone, predicted low birthweight with 65% sensitivity, 64% specificity and 31% positive predictive value. Family functioning, was the only predictor for both outcomes. Family functioning and other psychosocial risk factors may potentially improve identification of high risk pregnant urban black women.
Comparison of Histopathologic Criteria and Skeletal Muscle Fixation Techniques for the Diagnosis of Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy in Horses

The purpose of the study reported here was to determine the effect of three methods of fixation of skeletal muscle biopsy specimens on the histopathologic appearance of muscle sections and to determine criteria that were most consistently associated with a diagnosis of polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) in horses. Surgically excised semimembranosus muscle biopsy specimens were obtained from nine horses previously diagnosed with PSSM and from 15 control horses. Portions of each specimen were fixed in formalin, frozen immediately, and chilled for 24 hours prior to freezing. Sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), and amylase-PAS were scored for histopathologic criteria by three investigators blinded to the sample origin. The presence of amylase-resistant, abnormal polysaccharide was found to be the most sensitive and specific diagnostic indicator for PSSM, and was readily detected regardless of the fixation technique or investigator. Other less-specific features associated with PSSM included atrophy and cytoplasmic and subsarcolemmal vacuoles; however, their histologic scores varied among fixation technique and investigators. Scores for subsarcolemmal and cytoplasmic amylase-sensitive glycogen in horses with PSSM were similar to those for control horses and varied among fixation techniques. In conclusion, PSSM is most accurately diagnosed in muscle biopsy specimens on the basis of appearance of amylase-resistant, abnormal polysaccharide, not amylase-sensitive glycogen, regardless of fixation technique. In general, frozen sections appeared to be better suited for studying myopathies because many histopathologic features of skeletal muscle were obscured by formalin fixation.
Feature-point tracking by optical flow discriminates subtle differences in facial expression

Current approaches to automated analysis have focused an a small set of prototypic expressions (e.g. joy or anger). Prototypic expressions occur infrequently in everyday life, however, and emotion expression is far more varied. To capture the full range of emotion expression, automated discrimination of fine grained changes in facial expression is needed. We developed and implemented an optical flow based approach (feature point tracking) that is sensitive to subtle changes in facial expression. In image sequences from 100 young adults, action units and action unit combinations in the brow and mouth regions were selected for analysis if they occurred a minimum of 25 times in the image database. Selected facial features were automatically tracked using a hierarchical algorithm for estimating optical flow. Image sequences were randomly divided into training and test sets. Feature point tracking demonstrated high concurrent validity with human coding using the Facial Action Coding System (FACS).
Cell population dynamics (apoptosis, mitosis, and cell-cell communication) during disruption of homeostasis.

Abstract The sequence of events involved in maintenance of homeostasis must encompass mechanisms within single cells as well as interactions between cells within a population. To investigate the interaction among these inter- and intracellular mechanisms, disruption of homeostasis by serum deprivation was performed in WB-F344, a normal diploid epithelial cell line. Changes in cell–cell communication (gap junction function) at the population level and in individual cells were monitored using the scrape load/dye transfer and fluorescence redistribution after photobleaching assays. Apoptosis and mitosis were measured using internucleosomal DNA ladder assays and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. The results indicate that a common element in early apoptosis and early mitosis is sustained gap junction function. As cell life (mitosis) and cell death (apoptosis) progressed, a common process of change in gap junction function occurred. A transient stimulation of mitosis concomitant with increased apoptosis was also observed during serum deprivation. Gap junctions may play a regulatory role during initiation of these opposite yet equally important mechanisms of maintaining homeostasis. This model system is useful for further studies on the relationships among inter- and intracellular mechanisms of homeostasis.
Functionalization and Environmental Stabilization of ZnO Nanobridge Sensors Fabricated using Carbonized Photoresist

ZnO nanobridge sensors were selectively grown and electrically connected using lithographically patterned carbonized photoresist (C-PR). As ZnO is known to dissolve in deionized (DI) water, parylene-A was investigated as a moisture barrier and potential functionalization platform. A chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process for parylene-A was developed and it was demonstrated that parylene-A coated ZnO NWs do not show any signs of dissolution after 24 hours in an aqueous solution. The impact of the parylene-A coating on the electrical performance and sensitivity of ZnO nanobridge devices was investigated. A comparison of UV, O2, and H2O sensitivity between uncoated and coated devices revealed that a thin coating of parylene-A attenuated all of these responses, suggesting the ability to modulate environmental sensitivity using this non-covalently bound polymer passivation layer.
Separation of the locomotor stimulant and discriminative stimulus effects of cocaine by its C-2 phenyl ester analog, RTI-15

Abstract During a routine evaluation of several analogs of cocaine, we observed that the C-2 phenyl ester, RTI-15, appeared to suppress motor activity in rats. We subsequently examined RTI-15 for its cocaine-like stimulus effects as well as for its locomotor activity effects. RTI-15 dose-dependently generalized from the cocaine stimulus in rats trained to discriminate 10 mg/kg cocaine from saline with complete substitution (⩾80% cocaine-lever responding) occurring at 24 mg/kg. During automated locomotor activity tests in mice, cocaine (3–60 mg/kg) dose-dependently increased activity counts and movement time across the entire 1 h test session. RTI-15, however, had little affect on activity counts and movement time from 10–30 mg/kg, and decreased these measures at 60 mg/kg, the highest dose tested. These results indicate that while changing the C-2 methyl ester of cocaine to a C-2 phenyl ester increases dopamine-transporter selectivity, it dissociates its locomotor activity effects from its discriminative stimulus effects suggesting that the underlying mechanisms mediating these effects are not identical.
Ultrastructure of the collagen fibrils in the coelacanth

The collagen fibrils in the rectal gland capsule of the coelacanth Latimeria chalumnae are c. 127 nm in diameter and resemble those fibrils that play an active mechanical role in trout skin. The fibrils having periodicity of about 54 nm and seven intrabands per period suggest that the collagen molecules in Latimeria are shorter, a feature they presumably share with lower tetrapods.
Contemporary Problems in Hotel and Restaurant Law: Innkeeper Bailments

The following represents important legal facts designed to give innkeeper/ managers a better understanding of their rights, obligations, and liabilities that accrue when a bailment situation is set up with guests. Innkeepers must understand common law and statutory bailment law with respect to making restitution for a guest's personal property that is lost or damaged while a bailment is in effect. Innkeepers should develop specific written policies, maintain adequate training of employees and constantly audit strict employee adherence to those policies and to statutory requirements in the area of bailment law so as to lessen or eliminate their liability for the loss of or damage to a guest's property.Key Words:Bailment Situations, Conspicuous Posting, Statutory Law, Common Law, "Infra Hospitium," Limiting Recovery Statutes
Modularity and the Cultural Mind Contributions of Cultural Neuroscience to Cognitive Theory

A central question in the study of the mind is how cognitive functions are shaped by a complex interplay of genetic and experiential processes. Recent evidence from cultural neuroscience indicates that cultural values, practices, and beliefs influence brain function across a variety of cognitive processes from vision to social cognition. This evidence extends to low-level perceptual systems comprised of domain-specific mechanisms, suggesting the importance of ecological and cultural variation in the evolutionary and developmental processes that give rise to the human mind and brain. In this article, we argue that investigating the architecture of the human mind will require understanding how the human mind and brain shape and are shaped by culture–gene coevolutionary processes.
Global linearization by feedback and state transformation

Differential geometric conditions equivalent to the existence of a solution to the global feedback linearization problem are given. If global feedback for linearization is obtained with an atlas of local state space transformations, the resulting closed loop system still has almost all the important features of a linear system. Existence of a compact leaf in any of the standard foliations arising in the local feedback linearization problem is shown to represent nontrivial linear holonomy and hence an obstruction to the existence of global feedback. We prove that in the analytic case, if the state space is simply-connected, this obstruction does not occur. We show that in the two dimensional (C?) case, if the manifold is simply connected, then the local conditions and controllability are sufficient for global feedback linearization.
Cross-Sectional Compactness and Bracing Requirements for HPS483W Girders

An evaluation as to the appropriateness of using the current American building and bridge specification (according to AASHTO 1998 and AISC 1999) provisions for cross-sectional compactness and adequate bracing is carried out within the context of flexural applications involving A709 Gr. HPS483W high performance steel I-shaped girders. It is observed from the current research that when HPS483W beams are proportioned and braced so as to satisfy the current AISC and AASHTO flange compactness, web compactness, and bracing provisions, less than half of the required flexural ductility is available to accommodate inelastic force redistribution in structural systems. As a result, new flange and web compactness criteria, as well as new bracing criteria, are proposed in the present paper for use in the design of A709 Gr. HPS483W I-shaped beams.
A role for Helicobacter pylori in the gastrointestinal complaints of eating disorder patients

Eating disorder patients frequently present with gastrointestinal complaints. Helicobacter pylori is an etiologic factor in type B gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers, and may cause nausea and anorexia. Objective To determine whether or not there is an increased prevalence of H. pylori infection in patients with eating disorders. Method Serum H. pylori IgG antibody and gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed in 32 patients admitted for inpatient treatment of anorexia nervosa and/or bulimia nervosa. Results Eating disorder patients did not have an increased rate of detectable serum H. pylori IgG antibody. Discussion There is not an increased prevalence of H. pylori infection in eating disorder patients. Thus, the increased frequency of gastrointestinal complaints in eating disorder patients cannot be attributed to H. pylori infection. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 25:109–112, 1999.
Re-evaluation of new X-linked syndrome for evidence of CHARGE syndrome or association

Previously, we reported on a family with a new syndrome of cleft palate, coloboma, hypospadias, deafness, short stature, and radial synostosis. This family has been cited in several reports as an example of familial CHARGE syndrome. We do not think that the patients in this family have the Charge syndrome or association. Therefore, we decided to do a follow-up study on this family to assess the subsequent development of the patients and to determine if they have the CHARGE syndrome. We conclude that our patients do not have familial CHARGE syndrome.
Characterization of Remitting and Relapsing Hyperglycemia in Post-Renal-Transplant Recipients.

Background Hyperglycemia following solid organ transplant is common among patients without pre-existing diabetes mellitus (DM). Post-transplant hyperglycemia can occur once or multiple times, which if continued, causes new-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT). Objective To study if the first and recurrent incidence of hyperglycemia are affected differently by immunosuppressive regimens, demographic and medical-related risk factors, and inpatient hyperglycemic conditions (i.e., an emphasis on the time course of post-transplant complications). Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 407 patients who underwent kidney transplantation at Mayo Clinic Arizona. Among these, there were 292 patients with no signs of DM prior to transplant. For this category of patients, we evaluated the impact of (1) immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., tacrolimus, sirolimus, and steroid), (2) demographic and medical-related risk factors, and (3) inpatient hyperglycemic conditions on the first and recurrent incidence of hyperglycemia in one year post-transplant. We employed two versions of Cox regression analyses: (1) a time-dependent model to analyze the recurrent cases of hyperglycemia and (2) a time-independent model to analyze the first incidence of hyperglycemia. Results Age (P = 0.018), HDL cholesterol (P = 0.010), and the average trough level of tacrolimus (P<0.0001) are significant risk factors associated with the first incidence of hyperglycemia, while age (P<0.0001), non-White race (P = 0.002), BMI (P = 0.002), HDL cholesterol (P = 0.003), uric acid (P = 0.012), and using steroid (P = 0.007) are the significant risk factors for the recurrent cases of hyperglycemia. Discussion This study draws attention to the importance of analyzing the risk factors associated with a disease (specially a chronic one) with respect to both its first and recurrent incidence, as well as carefully differentiating these two perspectives: a fact that is currently overlooked in the literature.
Fundamental reformulation of the radiative transport equation

There is a branch of radiative transport theory that is customarily expressed with an integrodifferential equation or an integral equation. The new formulation in this article is, without approximation, expressed through partial differential equations in both the frequency and time domains. Its accuracy is demonstrated in the frequency domain by applying it to a problem solved long ago. It was expressed with the conventional integrodifferential equation. Confidence is bolstered in the new method by showing how the new method produces the identical analytical answer. This article also analyses a situation in the time domain in both the appropriate differential and integrodifferential equations and the identical results are again obtained.
Improved importance sampling technique for efficient simulation of digital communication systems

An improved importance sampling technique for the efficient simulation of digital communication systems is proposed. Evaluation of low-probability error events by direct use of classical Monte Carlo (MC) simulation techniques usually involves a very large number of runs. Importance-sampling techniques make the low-probability events occur more frequently. The technique proposed here is based on optimized translations of the original probability densities. The only approximation needed in the optimizations is that of replacing the Q function by the simpler exponential expression. Detailed analytical evaluations of the estimation variances of the classical MC and the conventional and improved importance-sampling approaches for systems with memories and signals are presented and compared, showing the superior performance of the latter. Detailed numerical and simulation results are given. >
Electromagnetic Scattering from Chiral Material using the Finite Difference Frequency Domain Method

In this contribution the use of finite difference frequency domain technique (FDFD) for the calculation of electromagnetic scattering from chiral media is presented. The accuracy of the presented formulations has been verified by comparing the FDFD solutions of one and two-dimensional scattering problems to exact or other numerical solutions
New Concepts and Technologies in Reconstructive Hand Surgery

Complex traumatic injuries and degenerative conditions of the hand continue to lead to significant impairment and disability. From technical innovations to regenerative concepts, this article presents the latest advances in the dynamic field of hand surgery in which worldwide efforts are made around the globe to repair, regenerate, or restore each composite tissue forming the hand. The systematic method by which finger replantation is performed, from bony fixation to skin closure, provides a platform for discussion of the newest innovations available to reconstructive hand surgeons.
East central North America climates during marine isotope stages 3-5

Long-term, high-resolution stalagmite carbon and oxygen isotope records from eastern North America (ENA) provide a midlatitude history of relative changes in moisture availability and climate states during the last interglacial and glacial inception (127.7 to 41.6 ka before present). The West Virginia carbon record shows low-amplitude variability at orbital time scales, superimposed on a long-term asymmetric pattern similar to global sea level changes. Relative moisture availability peaked at ~114 ka, and following a brief dry interval at ~96 ka, moisture availability gradually decreased. The almost linear change in moisture availability over ENA may reflect gradual changes in midlatitude zonal circulation as the polar cell and Laurentide Ice Sheet expanded or decreased. In contrast, our oxygen record is precession modulated and in phase with spring insolation, perhaps due to changes in precipitation seasonality. The separate pacings by eccentricity (carbon) and precession (oxygen) expose an underlying complexity that will be a challenge to explain.
FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS AND SURVIVAL REQUIREMENTS OF MEMORY CD4+ T LYMPHOCYTES IN VIVO

The phenotypic and functional characteristics of Ag-specific memory CD4+ lymphocytes are poorly defined. To examine the properties and cytokine responsiveness of these cells, we have developed an adoptive transfer system using in vitro-activated T cells expressing the DO.11 transgenic TCR specific for OVA323–339+ I-Ad. In vitro-activated DO.11 CD4+ cells exhibit comparable survival patterns at 1, 6, and 10 wk after adoptive transfer, indicating that a stable population of memory cells has been generated. In the absence of Ag, previously activated T cells survive longer than their naive counterparts in vivo, rapidly revert to a partially naive phenotype, and maintain their effector cytokine profile. The DO.11 CD4+ memory cells are capable of proliferating in response to IL-2 and IL-4, while naive DO.11 CD4+ cells exhibit no such proliferative responses.
Temperature, Growth Rate, and Body Size in Ectotherms: Fitting Pieces of a Life-History Puzzle

SYNOPSIS. The majority of ectotherms grow slower but mature at a larger body size in colder environments. This phenomenon has puzzled biologists because classic theories of life-history evolution predict smaller sizes at maturity in environments that retard growth. During the last decade, intensive theoretical and empirical research has generated some plausible explanations based on nonadaptive or adaptive plasticity. Nonadaptive plasticity of body size is hypothesized to result from thermal constraints on cellular growth that cause smaller cells at higher temperatures, but the generality of this theory is poorly supported. Adaptive plasticity is hypothesized to result from greater benefits or lesser costs of delayed maturation in colder environments. These theories seem to apply well to some species but not others. Thus, no single theory has been able to explain the generality of temperature-size relationships in ectotherms. We recommend a multivariate theory that focuses on the coevolution of thermal reaction norms for growth rate and size at maturity. Such a theory should incorporate functional constraints on thermal reaction norms, as well as the natural covariation between temperature and other environmental variables.
Learning to Fire at Targets by an iCub Humanoid Robot

In this paper, we present an algorithm that integrates computer vision with machine learning to enable a humanoid robot to accurately fire at objects classified as targets. The robot needs to be calibrated to hold the gun and instructed how to pull the trigger. Two algorithms are proposed and are executed depending on the dynamics of the target. If the target is stationery, a least mean square (LMS) approach is used to compute the error and adjust the gun muzzle accordingly. If the target is found to be dynamic, a modified Q-learning is used to best predict the object position and velocity and to adjust relevant parameters, as necessary. The image processing utilizes the OpenCV library to detect the target and point of impact of the bullets. The approach is evaluated on a 53-DOF humanoid robot iCub. This work is an example of fine motor control which is the basis for much of natural language processing by spatial reasoning. It is one aspect of a long term research effort on automatic language acquisition.
The Soprano and the Nightingale: Aleksandr Alyabyev’s “Solovey”

ABSTRACTOriginating as a salon romance by the minor Russian composer Alexandr Alyabyev, the song “Solovey,” or “The Nightingale” (1826), was transformed into a concert showpiece for lyric coloratura soprano. The historical narrative of this process illustrates various nineteenth-century cultural constructs regarding the female singer. Even though performing this song (and other “birdsong” repertoire) could help the singer claim the label of nightingale and manipulate her public image to avoid the negative connotations surrounding the operatic siren, the songbird’s bright voice, seeming innocence, and stunning virtuosity ultimately mask persistent undertones of seduction and exoticism.
Examining Differences in Opportunity and Eligibility for Cancer Clinical Trial Participation Based on Sociodemographic and Disease Characteristics.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES To examine differences in opportunity and eligibility for cancer clinical trial (CCT) participation based on sociodemographic and disease characteristics. . DESIGN A matched cross-sectional study including a prospective oral questionnaire and retrospective electronic medical record (EMR) review. . SETTING A single hospital in a large academic National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. . SAMPLE 44 Black or Hispanic and 44 Non-Hispanic White newly diagnosed individuals matched on cancer type and age (plus or minus five years). . METHODS Participants answered a questionnaire to capture self-reported opportunity for CCT participation, sociodemographic information, and cancer type. With consent, the authors completed a retrospective review of the EMR to assess eligibility and collect cancer stage and performance status. . MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES Opportunity and eligibility for CCT participation. . FINDINGS Most participants (78%) had no opportunity for participation and were ineligible for all available trials. No differences were noted in opportunity for participation or eligibility based on race or ethnicity. Participants with late-stage disease were more likely to have opportunity and be eligible for CCT participation (p = 0.001). Those with private insurance were less likely to have opportunity for participation (p = 0.05). . CONCLUSIONS Limited trial availability and ineligibility negatively influenced opportunity for CCT participation for all populations. Levels of under-representation for CCT participation likely vary within and across sociodemographic and disease characteristics, as well as across healthcare settings. . IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING The unique roles of nurse navigators and advanced practice nurses can be leveraged to increase opportunities for CCT participation for all populations.
Organic Chip Scale Package (CSP) Development for Flip Chip Applications

This paper describes a Chip Scale Package (CSP) development project and evaluation of the corresponding organic laminate material. Chip scale packaging can combine the strengths of various packaging technologies, such as the large size and performance advantages of a bare die assembly and the reliability of encapsulated devices. Optimizing the laminate carrier material for low CTE reduces the dimensional mis-match between chip and laminate during Bond and Assembly (BA) and mitigates Chip-Package Interactions (CPI) related fails. Utilizing a low CTE material significantly reduces the strain in the solder joints during the reflow process. Modeling laminate CSP groundrules with the organic material parameters provides stress and strain predictions and highlights parameter ranges for successful BA process capability. Predicted global and chip-site warp data from thermo-mechanical modeling are compared to the measured warpage data. In addition, other mechanical risk factors for a CSP during BA and reliability ...
Wunderdog Sports Picks

This case is little more than an e-mail that a college statistics professor received from the owner of a sports-picking service. The e-mail reports that the owner's picking system correctly picked 87 out of 149 2005 NFL games against the point spread. Students must decide what to make of this information. The case is used in an introductory course in data analysis and statistics.