cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On a class of right alternative rings without nilpotent ideals

THEOREM. A simple right alternative ring R which is not associative is alternative if and only if R has an idempotent e sub that there are no nilpotent elements in R,(e) and R,(e). Because simple alternative rings that are not associative are known to be Cayley-Dickson algebras [5] one easily sees that the condition is necessary. Most of the paper is taken up with establishing that it is also sufficient. In the process we prove the following more general result.
Preliminary performance and experiments from the high resolution plane grating monochromator at the center for advanced microstructures and devices

Abstract A soft X-ray plane grating monochromator installed at Louisiana State University's Center for Advanced Microstructures and Devices has been characterized and the first experimental results obtained. The monochromator is a modified SX-700 design which uses a moveable pre-mirror to allow the instrument to remain in focus over an energy range of 8 to 1200 eV. Since the pre-mirror motion is independent of the grating rotation, the monochromator can be used in three different modes: maximum resolution (fixed focus), maximum throughput, and maximum higher-order rejection. Absolute intensity measurements for all orders are reported for two fixed angles of the pre-mirror and for the fixed-focus mode. Results from the first experiments using the monochromator are reported.
Critical Success Factors in the Implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning Systems in Small and Midsize Businesses: Microsoft Navision Implementation

Use of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems has been the mainstay of large enterprises since 1990s. Only recently has there been significant interest in the use of ERP in small and medium sized businesses (SMBs). Since then scholars have been studying the applicability of research results of successful implementation of ERPs in large enterprises to implementation in SMBs. In this research, the authors study the available research to discern the various ERP systems and Critical Success Factors (CSF) of ERP implementations, and delve into the real life experiences of small and midsize businesses (SMBs) that have installed Microsoft Dynamics Navision (NAV). Except for the CSF â€œmanagement of riskâ€ being found not as important almost all SMBs in the study found all CSFs found important by large businesses also important and indicated that CSF â€œuser trainingâ€ the most important.
Children’s Eligibility And Coverage: Recent Trends And A Look Ahead

ABSTRACT: We used data from the 1996–2005 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey to track changes in children's public insurance eligibility and coverage. During the 2001–2005 “postexpansion” period, eli...
Characterization of a Highly Conserved Histone Related Protein, Ydl156w, and Its Functional Associations Using Quantitative Proteomic Analyses

A significant challenge in biology is to functionally annotate novel and uncharacterized proteins. Several approaches are available for deducing the function of proteins in silico based upon sequence homology and physical or genetic interaction, yet this approach is limited to proteins with well-characterized domains, paralogs and/or orthologs in other species, as well as on the availability of suitable large-scale data sets. Here, we present a quantitative proteomics approach extending the protein network of core histones H2A, H2B, H3, and H4 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, among which a novel associated protein, the previously uncharacterized Ydl156w, was identified. In order to predict the role of Ydl156w, we designed and applied integrative bioinformatics, quantitative proteomics and biochemistry approaches aiming to infer its function. Reciprocal analysis of Ydl156w protein interactions demonstrated a strong association with all four histones and also to proteins strongly associated with histones including Rim1, Rfa2 and 3, Yku70, and Yku80. Through a subsequent combination of the focused quantitative proteomics experiments with available large-scale genetic interaction data and Gene Ontology functional associations, we provided sufficient evidence to associate Ydl156w with multiple processes including chromatin remodeling, transcription and DNA repair/replication. To gain deeper insights into the role of Ydl156w in histone biology we investigated the effect of the genetic deletion of ydl156w on H4 associated proteins, which lead to a dramatic decrease in the association of H4 with RNA polymerase III proteins. The implication of a role for Ydl156w in RNA Polymerase III mediated transcription was consequently verified by RNA-Seq experiments. Finally, using these approaches we generated a refined network of Ydl156w-associated proteins.
Keeping Conflicting Findings in Perspective: The Case of Hostility and Health

The failure of a study to replicate previous findings can present some of the most vexing interpretative problems in science. This dilemma is raised by a report by Maruta and associates in the current issue of the Mayo Clinic Proceed­ ings (pages 109 to 114), in which scores on the Cook and Medley Hostility Scale of the Minnesota Multiphasic Per­ sonality Inventory (MMPI) predicted the incidence of coro­ nary heart disease and total mortality only in univariate analyses. The predictive ability of hostility was not signifi­ cant in multivariate analyses when age and sex were con­ trolled. These findings are posed as a challenge to the growing literature in which high levels of hostility have been associated with the development of coronary artery disease and other adverse health outcomes. Control of Risk Factors.-One immediately wonders whether the pattern of findings reported by Maruta and col­ leagues might also have occurred in the previous studies that have shown positive associations between hostility and sub­ sequent adverse health outcomes. Can the results of these previous studies be explained by the failure to include proper controls for risk factors such as age and sex? The answer is "no." In a study by Shekelle and coworkers, I MMPI hostility scores predicted coronary events and total mortality in a sample of 1,877 men when age, blood pressure, serum cho­ lesterol level, intake of alcohol, and cigarette smoking were controlled. Two other studies'" performed on essentially homogeneous samples in reference to sex and age found a positive association between hostility and adverse outcomes. Yet another study" found a measure of hostility to predict total mortality when the following factors were controlled: age, sex, smoking, serum cholesterol level, and physician's ratings of functional health at the beginning of follow-up. As Maruta and associates note, interview-based hostility measures have also predicted coronary events in the Multiple Risk Factor Intervention Trial" and the Western Collabora
The CLEO III upgrade

Abstract CLEO has pioneered the collection of large numbers of B mesons, in order to explore rare decays and thus test the Standard Model. In its third phase, CESR and CLEO plan to increase the total integrated luminosities by a factor 5–10, collecting ≃15 fb −1 per year. This will enable us to probe currently unobserved rare processes, and also perform measurements of 2-body B decays to overconstrain the parameters which describe CP violation. The CLEO III detector will be optimized to achieve this goal.
Mixtures of Nonionic Surfactants Made from Renewable Resources with Alkyl Sulfates: Comparison of Headgroups

Mixtures of alkyl N-methyl glucamines with linear alkyl sulfates and alkyl glucopyranosides (glycosides) with linear alkyl sulfates were investigated. Six different nonionic-anionic pairings chosen based on similar critical micelle concentration (CMC) in order to ensure that the best synergy is observed. Solutions at various concentrations and mixture ratios were tested and evaluated to determine CMC, surface tension at the CMC, surface tension reduction efficiency, and emulsification of decane. The results were evaluated and show synergism in both the alkyl sulfate/alkyl methyl glucamine as well as the alkyl sulfate/alkyl glycoside systems. A much greater interaction was seen between the sulfate headgroup and the methyl glucamine headgroup. The difference between the efficiency of interaction was attributed to the more flexible nature of the glucamine headgroup relative to that of the glycoside headgroup.
Chronotropic supersensitivity to norepinephrine and epinephrine induced by sympathectomy and reserpine pretreatment in the domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus)

1. 1. Chronotropic responses to norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (E) were determined for adult cocks in controls, decaborane pretreated, reserpine pretreated, and cardio-accelerator denervated subjects 1 day (acute) and 7 days (chronic) prior to testing. 2. 2. Isoproterenol and calcium dose-response curves were also obtained on control, reserpine pretreated, and chronically sympathectomized birds. 3. 3. Both chronic sympathectomy and reserpine pretreatment lowered the threshold dose of NE and E and shifted the dose-response curves significantly (P < 0·05) to the left. 4. 4. None of the other treatments changed the sensitivity curves of NE and E from control values. 5. 5. While there was no significant difference between the control and reserpine pretreated isoproterenol curves, the chronically denervated isoproterenol curve was significantly lower than control at the higher doses. 6. 6. There was no significant difference in calcium sensitivity at any of the doses. 7. 7. The data presented give no evidence that the increased sensitivity to NE and E following sympathectomy or reserpine treatment resulted from a post-junctional change.
Secondary sigma factor controls transcription of flagellar and chemotaxis genes in Escherichia coli.

Abstract The genes specifying chemotaxis, motility, and flagellar function in Escherichia coli are coordinately regulated and form a large and complex regulon. Despite the importance of these genes in controlling bacterial behavior, little is known of the molecular mechanisms that regulate their expression. We have identified a minor form of E. coli RNA polymerase that specifically transcribes several E. coli chemotaxis/flagellar genes in vitro and is likely to carry out transcription of these genes in vivo. The enzyme was purified to near homogeneity based on its ability to initiate transcription of the E. coli tar chemotaxis gene at start sites that are used in vivo. Specific tar transcription activity is associated with a polypeptide of apparent 28-kDa molecular mass that remains bound to the E. coli RNA polymerase throughout purification. This peptide behaves as a secondary sigma factor--designated sigma F--because it restores specific tar transcription activity when added to core RNA polymerase. The sigma F holoenzyme also transcribes the E. coli tsr and flaAI genes in vitro as well as several Bacillus subtilis genes that are transcribed specifically by the sigma 28 form of B. subtilis RNA polymerase. The latter holoenzyme is implicated in transcription of flagellar and chemotaxis genes in B. subtilis. Hence E. coli sigma F holoenzyme appears to be analogous to the B. subtilis sigma 28 RNA polymerase, both in its promoter specificity and in the nature of the regulon it controls.
Differentiating an integral function at a point of discontinuity of the integrand

Suppose f is a real valued function which is Riemann integrable on the interval [a, b]. Let Suppose further that x 0e(a, b), that f is continuous on a deleted neighbourhood of x 0, but that f is discontinuous at x 0. We find that if x 0 is a removable discontinuity, then F‘(x 0) exists but F‘(x o)?f(x 0), and that if x 0 is a jump discontinuity then F‘(x 0) does not exist. Finally, if x 0 is an essential discontinuity, we give examples to show that one may have F‘(x 0) = f(x 0) or that F‘(x 0) exists but F‘(x 0) ? f(x 0) or that F‘(x 0) does not exist.
Are you Committed Cathy, Reluctant Rita or Negative Nancy? Defining User Personas for a Technology-Based Wrist-Worn Eating Monitor

Self-monitoring of energy intake is a critical element of a successful weight loss plan. However, current methods to monitor energy intake are cumbersome and prone to under reporting. The present study examined how individuals used a new energy intake monitoring tool, the Bite Counter to adjust their eating behavior to a targeted bite limit. Data were collected from 30 female participants examining their compliance with using the device as well as their adherence to eating limits based on bite count. Three distinct compliance personas were developed based on the shared behaviors and traits of device users: Committed Cathy (the rapid adopter, seldom misses tracking eating activities), Reluctant Rita (often forgets device, always has an excuse) and Negative Nancy (will not wear or use the device). These personas will inform future experimenters on how to improve usage instructions in order to increase participant compliance with using technology-based eating behavior monitoring tools.
Characterization of plasma progesterone concentrations for two distinct luteal morphologies in mares.

Abstract Plasma progesterone concentrations in mares were determined in two experiments during the time that the luteal glands were detectable by transrectal ultrasonography. In both experiments, corpora lutea were classified into two tupes of morphologies based on their ultrasonic appearance: centrally nonechogenic luteal glands (fluid-filled) and uniformly echogenic luteal glands (non-fluid-filled). In Experiment 1, daily blood samples were taken from horse mares during August through October and May through July. There were no significant effects of season or luteal morphology on progesterone concentration. There was a significant main effect of day, but no day-by-season or day-by-morphology interactions. Progesterone increased significantly between Days 1 and 3 (mean progesterone concentration, 2.5 vs 5.2 ng/ml, respectively), between Days 3 and 4 (5.2 vs 7.8 ng/ml), and between Days 4 and 5 (7.8 vs 11.0 ng/ml). Progesterone did not decrease significantly until between Days 11 and 15 (11.6 and 6.1 ng/ml). Subsequent decreases occurred between Days 15 and 16 (6.1 vs 3.9 ng/ml), and Days 16 and 17 (3.9 vs 2.5 ng/ml). In Experiment 2, blood samples were obtained from pony mares at 1 2 - h intervals for 3 h before and 2 h after the defined onset of luteal development (end of evacuation of the ovulatory follicle). Additional blood samples were taken at 5, 8 and 12 h after the onset of luteal development, and thereafter at 12-h intervals for 5d. There were no significant differences between centrally nonechogenic luteal glands (n = 7) and uniformly echogenic luteal glands (n = 5) during the first 5 d of luteal development. There was no time-by-morphology interaction, but there was a significant time effect. The first significant increase in progesterone concentration occurred between Hours 12 and 24 (0.5 vs 1.1 ng/ml). Additional increases were detected between Hours 24 and 36 (1.1 vs 2.6 ng/ml), Hours 36 and 48 (2.6 vs 4.3 ng/ml), Hours 48 and 60 (4.3 vs 6.1 ng/ml), Hours 60 and 72 (6.1 vs 9.4 ng/ml), and Hours 72 and 96 (9.4 vs 13.8 ng/ml). The hypothesis was supported that fluid-filled corpora lutea do not differ from non-fluid-filled corpora lutea with regard to progesterone production.
Estimation of Fe3+ from electron microprobe analyses: observations on calcic amphibole and chlorite

Metabasites and metagreywackes from the Pelona and Rand Schists of southern California were analysed using three different electron microprobes. For all three instruments, the estimated Fe3+ contents of calcic amphibole, chlorite and epidote are positively correlated. For some samples, there is an additional correlation between high estimated Fe3+ and the presence of magnetite. These results imply that microprobe analyses can be used to discern relative differences in Fe3+. However, microprobe data and calculations on the sensitivity of the correction procedures to systematic analytical errors indicate that estimated values of Fe3+ are not significant in an absolute sense. Thus, estimates of Fe3+ are meaningful when comparing samples analysed with a single microprobe, but must be used with caution when comparing analyses obtained on more than one probe.
Age at Onset in Geriatric Bipolar Disorder: Effects on Clinical Presentation and Treatment Outcomes in an Inpatient Sample

The authors report on 62 inpatients over age 60 who met DSM-III-R criteria for bipolar disorder, divided into early- and late-onset groups by their median age at lifetime onset, 49 years, in order to examine differences in demographic and clinical characteristics, treatment parameters, and outcome in the two groups during a short-term hospitalization. The late-onset group was more likely to have psychotic features and to demonstrate cerebrovascular risk/burden. However, both groups had similar and highly significant improvements in the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, Global Assessment Scale, and the Mini-Mental State Exam, and 87% were able to be discharged to settings no more restrictive than those at admission.
Effects of a contralateral interference tone on auditory recognition

The effects of a contralateral interference tone on identification of the frequency of a brief signal were investigated. The signal was a 20-reset sinusoid and was the same intensity as the 500-msec interference tone. Changes in frequency discrimination were measured as a function of the temporal intee, al between rdgnal and interference tone. Frequency discrimination was unaffected by the presence of a leading interference torte. However, the addition of a trailing interference tone produced a small (about 15%) decrement in performance relative to discriminability measured in quiet. In contrast to the data and supporting theory of Massaro (1970) percent correct identification did not vary appreciably with intertone interval. The present data suggest that interference effects previously obtained with untrained Os ;are greatly attenuated for well-practiced Ss
Modeling soft factors in computer-based wargames

Computer-based wargames have seen much improvement in recent years due to rapid increases in computing power. Because these games have been developed for the entertainment industry, most of these advances have centered on the graphics, sound, and user interfaces integrated into these wargames with less attention paid to the game's fidelity. However, for a wargame to be useful to the military, it must closely approximate as many of the elements of war as possible. Among the elements that are typically not modeled or are poorly modeled in nearly all military computer-based wargames are systematic effects, command and control, intelligence, morale, training, and other human and political factors. These aspects of war, with the possible exception of systematic effects, are individually modeled quite well in many board-based commercial wargames. The work described in this paper focuses on incorporating these elements from the board-based games into a computer-based wargame. This paper will also address the modeling and simulation of the systemic paralysis of an adversary that is implied by the concept of Effects Based Operations (EBO). Combining the fidelity of current commercial board wargames with the speed, ease of use, and advanced visualization of the computer can significantly improve the effectiveness of military decision making and education. Once in place, the process of converting board wargames concepts to computer wargames will allow the infusion of soft factors into military training and planning.
A capacitance–voltage model for polysilicon-gated MOS devices including substrate quantization effects based on modification of the total semiconductor charge☆

Abstract We present a model for simulating the capacitance–voltage ( C – V ) characteristics of polysilicon-gated MOS devices with thin oxides. The model includes substrate quantization effects through a modification of the total semiconductor charge. Therefore, solutions for C – V can be quickly obtained without the computational burden of solving over a physical grid. The model includes polysilicon depletion by self-consistently solving the charge balance equation. We conclude with comparisons of the C – V characteristics obtained with this model and those obtained by self-consistent solutions to the Schrodinger and Poisson equations. Good agreement was observed over a wide range of oxide thickness (2.0–15.0 nm) and substrate doping (10 15 –10 18 cm −3 ).
Adoption of e-government in three Latin American countries: Argentina, Brazil and Mexico

This paper discusses the adoption of e-government in three Latin American countries: Argentina, Brazil and Mexico. The study first presents a conceptual framework to examine the development and services of e-government, which is applied to assess its adoption in these leading Latin American economies. Study findings can shed some light on each nation as a model for successful development as well as the implementation of e-government in a non-industrialized, developing nation. The analysis also seeks to fill a void in the study of e-government in less developed nations, most of which are trying to catch up with their developed counterparts in this crucial aspect of digital governmental development.
Showmanship in the Classroom

Abstract THIS paper alludes to those practices of presenting subject matter in the classroom in a way which holds the interest of the students. If an idea makes an impression upon the student the method of instruction might be considered effective. All students do not respond the same way to a specific type of instruction. Certain methods which have “gone over in a big way” with one class may fail to interest other classes. It is well to study the manner of presenting material to different groups along with the subject matter and organization of same. Each class should be considered as a different unit and the instructor should endeavor to find the right approach to each group. The writer after 27 years’ experience teaching still feels poorly qualified to discuss so important a subject as effective teaching. As in most fields of endeavor the more experience one has the less . . .
Hydrophobic Mismatch Modulates the Kinetics of G Protein Binding and Receptor Conformation Change

A recent study demonstrated that rhodopsin in 14:0,14:1 PC (hydrophobic thickness = 21.4 angstroms) has 8% less helical content than rhodopsin in 18:0,18:1 PC (hydrophobic thickness = 29.2 angstroms). We investigated the effects of hydrophobic thickness on rates of MII and transducin (Gt) binding and phospholipid dynamics and packing order. Purified rhodopsin was reconstituted in liposomes consisting of 14:0,14:1 PC and 18:0,18:1 PC at a lipid:protein ratio of 200. Kinetics of MII formation and Gt binding where measured with flash photolysis, and membrane properties were assessed via time-resolved fluorescence anisotropy decay measurements of diphenylhexatriene (DPH). MII formation was analyzed in terms of the square model. Analysis of the DPH anisotropy decay data in terms of the P2-P4 model showed that lipid dynamics and fractional free volume (fv) were higher in the 14:0,14:1 PC membrane. Previous studies demonstrate that an increase in these two bilayer properties is associated with enhanced MII formation, but in this case equilibrium concentration of MII and the rate of MII formation was higher in 18:0,18:1 PC at all temperatures. Analysis of the temperature dependence of the kinetics in terms of reaction rate theory showed this was chiefly due to increased activation enthalpy for two of the forward rates; Lumi to MI-380 and MI-480 to MII. At 30 oC in 18:0,18:1 PC, MII formed with a time constant of 0.69 ms and the MII-Gt complex formed in 0.79 ms. This near-immediate formation of MII-Gt following MII is similar to what is observed for rhodopsin in the native membrane. In 14:0,14:1 PC MII formed in 5.43 ms and MII-G complex formed in 37.6 ms. This long lag between appearance of MII and Gt binding demonstrates that hydrophobic mismatch has deleterious consequences for G protein-coupled signaling.
Localization of Oxalyl-Coenzyme A Decarboxylase, and Formyl-Coenzyme A Transferase in Oxalobacter formigenes Cells

Summary Knowledge about the cellular location of enzymes concerned with oxalate metabolism in Oxalobacter formigenes is important for the development of concepts about the energy metabolism of this oxalatedependent anaerobe. The main question asked in this study was whether or not major enzymes of oxalate metabolism (oxalyl-CoA-decarboxylase and formyl-CoA-transferase) were membrane bound. Spheroplasts of the gram-negative cells were prepared using lysozyme, and after osmotic lysis, the membrane fraction was obtained by centrifugation at 280,000 x g. Most (>90%) of the oxalyl-CoA-decarboxylase and the formyl-CoA-transferase activitites that were recovered were in the soluble cytoplasmic fraction. However, the cytoplasmic fraction also appeared to contain membrane proteins. Of several enzymes that were tested, acid phosphatase appeared to be the best marker of membrane-linked enzymes (39% of the acid phosphatase activity was found in the membrane fraction). This is in contrast to finding only 2.4 and 0.4% of the activities oxalyl-CoA-decarboxylase and formly-CoA-transferase, respectively, in the membrane fraction. Results of immunogold labeling studies also support the concept that oxalyl-CoA-decarboxylase is not a membrane-bound or localized enzyme.
A psychometric evaluation of the use of data flow diagrams

Systems morphology is usually assumed to be a function of the problem and the applied design heuristic. Recently, however, it has been suggested that the designer's psychological characteristics may have an impact as well. This study attempts to measure the impact of various cognitive metrics and experience on the structural characteristics of data flow diagrams. It appears that a statistically significant relationship does exist and it may well prove to be useful in the assignment of systems analysts to analysis and design tasks.
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia with a variant Philadelphia translocation, der(9), and der(19) chromosomes.

Abstract We report here one of 15 cases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cytogenetically studied, with hypodiploidy, a variant Ph translocation, and der (9) and der (19) chromosomes. The patient, a 14-year-old girl, underwent combination chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation and is still in remission 22 months after transplantation.
Crystal Structure of the C-terminal Domain of the Two-Component System Transmitter Protein Nitrogen Regulator II (NRII; NtrB), Regulator of Nitrogen Assimilation in Escherichia coli†,‡

The kinase/phosphatase nitrogen regulator II (NRII, NtrB) is a member of the transmitter protein family of conserved two-component signal transduction systems. The kinase activity of NRII brings about the phosphorylation of the transcription factor nitrogen regulator I (NRI, NtrC), causing the activation of Ntr gene transcription. The phosphatase activity of NRII results in the inactivation of NRI-P. The activities of NRII are regulated by the signal transduction protein encoded by glnB, PII protein, which upon binding to NRII inhibits the kinase and activates the phosphatase activity. The C-terminal ATP-binding domain of NRII is required for both the kinase and phosphatase activities and contains the PII binding site. Here, we present the crystal structure of the C-terminal domain of a mutant form of NRII, NRII-Y302N, at 1.6 A resolution and compare this structure to the analogous domains of other two-component system transmitter proteins. While the C-terminal domain of NRII shares the general tertiary structure seen in CheA, PhoQ, and EnvZ transmitter proteins, it contains a distinct beta-hairpin projection that is absent in these related proteins. This projection is near the site of a well-characterized mutation that reduces the binding of PII and near other less-characterized mutations that affect the phosphatase activity of NRII. Sequence alignment suggests that the beta-hairpin projection is present in NRII proteins from various organisms, and absent in other transmitter proteins from Escherichia coliK-12. This unique structural element in the NRII C-terminal domain may play a role in binding PII or in intramolecular signal transduction.
Split calvarial graft cranioplasty for the prevention of headache after retrosigmoid resection of acoustic neuromas

Objective: This study describes the technique and efficacy of split calvarial graft cranioplasty for the reconstruction of retrosigmoid/suboccipital defects following surgery for acoustic neuromas. Study Design: A prospective study of the technique of split calvarial graft cranioplasty, its postoperative healing, and incidence of postoperative headache. Methods: The technique requires splitting of the craniotomy bone flap into outer and inner table bone grafts. The combination of both bony grafts allows the coverage of a wider area of posterior fossa dura. This technique was used in 18 patients. All patients were followed for a minimum of 6 months. Eleven of 18 patients were followed for 1 year or longer. Four patients had three-dimensional computed tomography of their skull and area of split calvarial bone graft. Results: One of 18 patients had a persistent disabling headache at 1 year postoperatively. A natural contour of the retrosigmoid area was achieved in all patients. Three-dimensional computed tomography scan, obtained 6 months postoperatively, showed total coverage of the retrosigmoid area and fusion of the bone flap to the surrounding skull. Conclusion: The technique of split calvarial grafting of posterior fossa defects is a feasible, safe, and effective way of separating the nuchal musculature and posterior fossa dura. The technique also allows the restoration of the contour and bony covering of the retrosigmoid area. The technique is a simple alternative to other types of cranioplasties aimed at reducing the incidence of postoperative headache in patients with acoustic neuromas.
The Financial Vulnerability of Families

Few doubt that the housing boom is over. But the extent of the housing decline and its consequences for the economy are subject to much speculation. The authors present a detailed and comprehensive picture of Americans' dependence on housing and are concerned about the extent of their vulnerability to future economic shocks.
Extremal bases for finite cyclic groups

Let m and h be positive integers. A set A of integers is called a basis of orderh for Z(m) if every integer n is congruent to a sum of h elements in A modulo m. Let m(h, A) denote the greatest positive integer m such that A is a basis of order h for Z(m). For any k ≥ 1, define m(h, k) = max∥A∥ = k + 1 m(h, A). This generalizes a function of Graham and Sloane. In this paper, it is proved that, for fixed k ≥ 4 as h → ∞, m(h, k) ≥ αk (256125)⌞k4⌟ (hk)k + O(hk − 1), where αk = 1 if k ≡ 0 or 1 (mod 4), 43 if k ≡ 2 (mod 4), and 2716 if k ≡ 3 (mod 4). A lower bound for m(h, k) is also obtained for fixed h. Using these results, new lower bounds are proved for the order of subsets of asymptotic bases.
Augmentation of dietary fat preference by chronic, but not acute, hypercorticosteronemia

Numerous studies have documented a role for corticosterone in appetitive behavior, including caloric intake and dietary fat preference. In the present study, we have examined the mechanism(s) underlying modulation of dietary fat preference by corticosterone. The results of these studies show a) an increased fat preference with increased basal urinary output, or decreased stimulation of corticosterone output on fasting, b) elevation of fat preference following chronic, but not acute, hypercorticosteronemia produced by exogenous corticosterone administration, and c) emergence of hypercorticosteronemia prior to the development of increased fat preference in developing rats. These observations have led us to suggest that increased fat preference after chronic hypercorticosteronemia may be secondary to changes in the levels or actions of agents known to affect fat intake.
A Simple Learning Scheme for Priority Assignment at a Single-Server Queue

A simple fixed structure learning scheme is proposed for priority assignment at a single-server queue. The server processes two streams of jobs, with random service times (exponentially distributed) in which the parameters are unknown at the start. The optimal priority assignment is asymptotically learned with arbitrary accuracy by properly choosing the algorithm parameters. The scheme has finite memory and is easily implementable. Simulations results are included.
Adsorption mass transfer model for virus transport in soils

Abstract The movement of viruses in soil has important implications for land treatment of wastewater. In this paper, an adsorption mass transfer model is applied to describe virus association with soils and soil components. Analysis of reported isotherms for several different virus-solid adsorbent combinations suggests that this association is characterized as “weak” in terms of small values for the association equilibrium constant K L , although the number of adsorption sites, Q , is large. For adsorption of φx -174 bacteriophage to a silt loam soil, these parameters are K L ⋍ 10 −11 ml virus −1 and Q ⋍ 10 8 sites per mg soil. These values are used in the mass transfer model to calculate the rate of adsorption in batch and percolating column systems. Good agreement with rate measurements in a batch system was obtained when only one parameter, the external mass transfer coefficient, k f , was determined arbitrarily by data fitting. The model has general applicability to the description of virus movement through soil when K L , Q and k f are known for specific virus-soil combinations.
Modeling the frequency dependence of the effective path length adjustment factor for prediction of rain attenuation on earth-space paths

A physical structure model is utilized to analyze the frequency dependence of the adjustment factor associated with empirical attenuation models for earth-space paths. The frequency dependence seen in empirical models comes in part from the frequency dependent specific attenuation. Melting layer and cloud attenuation that is inherent in the data give rise to significant frequency dependence at higher exceedance probabilities.
Design Synthesis of 2-D Compliant Mechanisms Utilizing Serial Concatenation of Building Blocks

In this section we implement a characterization based on eigen-twists and eigen-wrenches for the deformation of a compliant mechanism at a given point of interest. For 2-D mechanisms, this involves characterizing the compliance matrix at a unique point called the center of elasticity. At the center of elasticity, the translation and rotational compliances are decoupled. We give an intuitive graphical understanding of compliance at this point by representing the translational compliance as an ellipse and the coupling between the translational and rotational parameters as vectors (Coupling vectors). This representation gives us an intuitive understanding of series and parallel combination of building blocks. We obtain a parametric variation of these quantities for a compliant dyad building block, and show with examples how a mechanism can be synthesized by a combination of building blocks to obtain desired deformation requirements. We also propose a combination of series and parallel concatenation to achieve more than one specification simultaneously. Such a characterization can be extended to synthesize involving multiple ports.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Incorporation of indium and gallium in atomic layer epitaxy of InGaAs on InP substrates

Abstract The incorporation of indium (In) and gallium (Ga) group III elements in the growth of ternary InGaAs layers by atomic layer epitaxy (ALE) was investigated using various growth conditions. By dividing the growth rate of InGaAs into InAs and GaAs components, it was found that the incorporation of In and Ga strongly depends on the source exposure time, H 2 purge, and growth temperature. At 500 °C the growth rate of InAs is determined by the metalorganic precursor supply duration and the growth rate of GaAs is determined by the AsH 3 exposure duration. With increasing H 2 purge time, Ga incorporation is enhanced. At an elevated temperature of 550 °C the incorporation of both In and Ga is dependent on metalorganic precursor exposure, while at a low temperature of 400 °C the In and Ga incorporation is limited by the AsH 3 exposure. A growth model was proposed to explain the ALE growth of a ternary InGaAs layer at 500 °C, which may involve metal In and GaCH 3 adsorbates as the In and Ga species on the growing surface, respectively.
Molecular Heme−Cyanide−Copper Bridged Assemblies: Linkage Isomerism, Trends in νCN Values, and Relation to the Heme-a3/CuB Site in Cyanide-Inhibited Heme−Copper Oxidases

Bovine heart cytochrome c oxidase and related heme copper oxidases are inhibited by cyanide, which binds at the binuclear heme-a3/CuB site where dioxygen is reduced to water. To determine the mode ...
On the relations of various conjectures on Latin squares and straightening coefficients

We discuss the relations among various combinatorial conjectures, to wit: I. A conjecture of J. Dinitz on partial Latin squares, closely related to a conjecture of N. Alon and M. Tarsi on Latin squares. II. A conjecture of the second author on the nonvanishing property of a certain straightening coefficient in the supersymmetric bracket algebra. This conjecture is motivated by the author’s program of extending invariant theory by the use of supersymmetric variables. III. A conjecture of the second author on the exchange property satisfied by sets of bases of a vector space (or more general, for bases of a matroid). IV. A conjecture of J. Kahn which generalizes Dinitz’s conjecture, as well as conjecture III.
Myocarditis due to coxsackie virus, group B type 5

Abstract A 15 year old adolescent boy with pleuritis and carditis, presumably both myocardial and pericardial in locus, has been presented. Serologic data indicated a causal relationship to Coxsackie virus infection, Group B type 5. This is the fifth older subject reported with myocarditis caused by Coxsackie viruses and the third caused by this serotype. The literature concerning Coxsackie carditis has been reviewed, and the possible relation of this entity to “idiopathic” forms of primary myocardial disease has been discussed.
Vibrational modes of nanolines

Brillouin-light-scattering spectra previously have been shown to provide information on acoustic modes of polymeric lines fabricated by nanoimprint lithography. Finite-element methods for modeling such modes are presented here. These methods provide a theoretical framework for determining elastic constants and dimensions of nanolines from measured spectra in the low gigahertz range. To make the calculations feasible for future incorporation in inversion algorithms, two approximations of the boundary conditions are employed in the calculations: the rigidity of the nanoline/substrate interface and sinusoidal variation of displacements along the nanoline length. The accuracy of these approximations is evaluated as a function of wavenumber and frequency. The great advantage of finite-element methods over other methods previously employed for nanolines is the ability to model any cross-sectional geometry. Dispersion curves and displacement patterns are calculated for modes of polymethyl methacrylate nanolines with cross-sectional dimensions of 65 nm × 140 nm and rectangular or semicircular tops. The vibrational displacements and dispersion curves are qualitatively similar for the two geometries and include a series of flexural, Rayleigh-like, and Sezawa-like modes.
A Stereoselective Total Synthesis of (±)-Podocarpic Acid

Abstract A number of synthetic approaches to diterpene resin acids related to podocarpic acid (6) have been published.1–11 We wish to report, herein, a very short and highly stereoselective total synthesis of (±)-podocarpic acid (6).
Spectrum Analysis of Railroad Track With Hanging Tie Problem

Hanging tie is a railroad track distress when voids have been developed beneath the ties due to uneven ballast settlement and improper maintenance practice. It, in return, will lead to an increase in dynamic impact loading on the top of the ballast and therefore further deteriorate the track structure. It is often difficult to identify this problem in an efficient and non-destructive manner. This paper proposed a non-destructive and fast screening method to identify hanging tie problem. A dynamic track model capable of simulating moving load and detailed tie supporting conditions is first introduced and then utilized to construct rail deflection spectrums for tracks with different supporting conditions. Case studies of different configurations of ties will be employed. Conclusions will be drawn and important findings will be highlighted in the end.© 2014 ASME
Financial Savvy: The Value of Business Acumen in Oncology Nursing

Have you given serious thought to your individual ability to affect the high cost of health care? If so, you may have determined that the opportunity to have any meaningful effect on cost of services for patients with cancer is limited. You may believe that budgets are the responsibility of nursing leadership. Indeed, the development of the unit or department budget is an activity that many of us have no direct (or even indirect) role in completing. Once the budget is finalized, we are frequently given directives to control our costs and improve the financial bottom line for our employers. One could argue that this is a particularly difficult missive for oncology nurses with the soaring costs of chemotherapy and biotherapy drugs, the expenses incurred to provide supportive care needed by patients with cancer, and the need to provide services to the increasing number of cancer survivors.
Endoscopic Repair of Anterior Glottic Web Using a False Vocal Fold Microflap as a Biological Keel

The management of anterior glottic webs can pose a significant challenge for the laryngologist. There can be a tendency for lysed and exposed raw mucosal surfaces at the anterior commissure to form recurrent local fibrosis and webbing after definitive surgical treatment. One common surgical approach described in the literature involves the use of a laryngofissure with placement of a temporary stent or keel. Others recommend the endoscopic approach for keel or stent placement. The downsides to these approaches include the risks of prolonged intubation and tracheotomy. Furthermore, keel placement introduces a foreign body to the airway, which could dislodge and compromise breathing or act as a nidus for infection and inflammatory reaction. In our report, we present an alternative approach using an endoscopic repair of anterior glottic web with placement of a false vocal fold rotational microflap which serves as a biological keel. This method eliminates the morbidity of a tracheotomy, and removes the need of placing a foreign body in the airway.
On the nature of quantum geometrodynamics

Abstract Classical gravitation, electromagnetism, charge, and mass are described in a preceding article in terms of curved empty space and nothing more. In advance of the detailed quantization of this pure Einstein-Maxwell geometrodynamics, an attempt is made here (1) to bring to light some of the most important properties to be expected for quantized geometrodynamics and (2) to assess whether this theory, without addition of any inventive elements, can contribute anything to the understanding of the elementary particle problem. Gravitational field fluctuations are concluded to have qualitatively new consequences at distances of the order of ( h G c 3 ) 1 2 = 1.6 × 10 −33 cm . They lead one to expect the virtual creation and annihilation throughout all space of pairs with electric charges of the order ∼( h c) 1 2 and energies of the order ( h c 5 G ) 1 2 = (2.18 × 10 −5 g )c 2 = 2.4 × 10 22 mc 2 . The problem is discussed, to what extent these charges can be identified with the unrenormalized or “undressed” charges of electron theory. Decisive for the future usefulness of quantum geometroydnamics is the question whether spin shows itself as an inevitable geometrical concomitant of quantization, or whether it and other ideas have to superposed on this purely geometrical description of nature.
The Commitment Function of Angry Facial Expressions

What function do facial expressions have? We tested the hypothesis that some expressions serve as honest signals of subjective commitments—in particular, that angry faces increase the effectiveness of threats. In an ultimatum game, proposers decided how much money to offer a responder while seeing a film clip depicting an angry or a neutral facial expression, together with a written threat that was either inherently credible (a 50-50 split) or less credible (a demand for 70% of the money). Proposers offered greater amounts in response to the less credible threat when it was accompanied by an angry expression than when it was accompanied by a neutral expression, but were unaffected by the expression when dealing with the credible threat. This finding supports the hypothesis that angry expressions are honest signals that enhance the credibility of threats.
The design of gas sparged devices for viscous liquid systems

Design procedures for gas sparged contractors for both low and high viscosity liquids were developed to predict overall kLa. Bubble size close to the orifice, for moderately high gas rates, was found to increase at a rate proportional to one third power of gas rate and one tenth power of liquid viscosity. Bubble breakup phenomenon was shown to be related to liquid turbulence in the vessel rather than gas turbulence in the orifice. Procedures were developed through a simple liquid circulation model to obtain a criterion for the onset of bubble breakup. Results indicate that intense liquid mixing and high interfacial area can be achieved in low viscosity liquids by gas sparging alone. In high viscosity fluids, bubble breakup was not observed. The liquid circulation model predicts laminar flow at these experimental conditions over the complete range of gas rates observed.
Synthesis of aluminum oxide coating with carbon nanotube reinforcement produced by chemical vapor deposition for improved fracture and wear resistance

Abstract Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) was used to achieve a homogeneous dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on aluminum oxide (Al2O3) powder. This powder was plasma sprayed onto a steel substrate to produce a 96% dense Al2O3 coating with CNT reinforcement. Addition of 1.5 wt.% CNTs showed a 24% increase in the relative fracture toughness of the composite coating. The improvement in the fracture toughness is attributed to uniform dispersion of CNTs and toughening mechanism such as CNT bridging, crack deflection and strong interaction between CNT/Al2O3 interfaces. Wear and friction behavior of the CNT reinforced Al2O3 coating under dry sliding condition was investigated by ball-on-disk tribometer. With the increasing normal loads from 10 to 50 N, the wear volume loss and coefficient of friction of the coating increased, owing to transition from the mild to severe wear. Wear resistance of the Al2O3–CNT composite coating improved by ∼27% at 50 N. Coefficient of friction at 50 N was dependent on the competing phenomena of wear debris generation and graphitization due to pressure.
Morphisms inverted by profinite completion

Abstract It is shown that a map between nilpotent spaces becomes an equivalence upon P -profinite completion, where P is a collection of primes, if and only if it is an equivalence with respect to mod p homology for all p in P . Homological criteria for a homomorphism between nilpotent groups to become an isomorphism or an epimorphism under P -profinite completion are given. These results are relativised to nilpotent fibrations and relative groups.