cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structural transformations of polylabdanoid resinites during maturation

Abstract Three polylabdanoid resinites ranging in age from Eocene to Miocene were analyzed by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The goal of the study was to determine effects on the chemical composition of polylabdanoid resinites following maturation processes. The samples studied included two Victorian Brown Coal resinites from the Yallourn and Morwell coal seams in Victoria, Australia, and a resinite from the Brunner coal measure in Nelson, New Zealand. Results of CPMAS 13 C NMR experiments have determined a progressive decrease in total olefinic carbon content (per diterpenoid) with increasing maturity. Olefin reduction occurs primarily via a diminution in exocyclic methylene carbons of the labdatriene precursors (i.e. communic acid, communol, and/or biformene and their analogs). Analysis of Soxhlet extracted samples by py-GC-MS has shown a transformation from pyrolysis products indicative of communic acid polymers (hydronaphthenic acids) to a pyrolyzate containing a significant proportion of alkyl(hydro)naphthalenes. Condensation of the resinite polymer occurring in conjunction with defunctionalization reactions has been proposed.
Synthesis and Reactivity of a Mono-σ-Aryl Palladium(IV) Fluoride Complex

This communication describes the rational design and synthesis of the remarkably stable Pd(IV) monoaryl fluoride complex (t-Bu-bpy)Pd(IV)(p-FC(6)H(4))(F)(2)(FHF) (t-Bu-bpy = 4,4'-di-tert-butyl-2,2'-bipyridine). This and related complexes undergo Ar-F bond formation in the presence of "F(+)" sources. This work serves as a foundation for the development of Pd(II/IV)-catalyzed coupling reactions to form aryl fluorides.
Managing signal, power and thermal integrity for 3D integration

Over the last several years, the buzzword in the electronics industry has been “More than Moore”, referring to the embedding of components into the package substrate and stacking of ICs and packages using wirebond and package on package (POP) technologies. This has led to the development of technologies that can lead to the miniaturization of electronic systems with coining of terms such as SIP (System in Package) and SOP (System on Package). More recently, the semiconductor industry has started focusing more on 3D integration using Through Silicon Vias (TSV). This is being quoted as a revolution in the electronics industry by several leading technologists. 3D technology, an alternative solution to the scaling problems being faced by the semiconductor industry provides a 3rd dimension for connecting transistors, ICs and packages together with short interconnections, with the possibility for miniaturization, as never before. The semiconductor industry is investing heavily on TSVs as it provides opportunities for improved performance, bandwidth, lower power, reduced delay, lower cost and overall system miniaturization. However, 3D integration poses several challenges related to managing signal, power and thermal integrity - three aspects of the problem that are pristine for ensuring system performance. In addition testing such integrated and miniaturized systems can be challenging as well. In this talk, a few approaches for managing signal, power and thermal integrity are presented in the context of 3D integration along with a few approaches for test and characterization.
Analysis of high purity solids by resonance ionization spectroscopy

Abstract Resonance Ionization Spectroscopy (RIS) techniques provide ultrasensitive methods for analysis of materials. One of these techniques, Sputter Inititated Resonance Ionization Spectroscopy (SIRIS), uses an energetic ion beam to atomize a solid sample and tunable dye lasers to resonantly ionize atoms of a selected element. The ions are then detected with a mass spectrometer. Because of the high selectivity and efficiency of the RIS process, SIRIS is a highly sensitive technique and can be used to detect trace elements down to the ppb level. While SIRIS is primarily a surface technique, depth profiles can be produced by iteratively sputtering with the beam in the dc mode and then measuring the sample with resonance ionization using the pulsed ion beam. For example, the depth profiles of silicon implanted into gallium arsenide and titanium diffused into lithium niobate have been measured. The concept of RIS is briefly reviewed and the SIRIS technique and apparatus are described. Results of measurements in silicon, gallium arsenide, and lithium niobate are discussed along with other supporting data.
Challenges Affecting the Education of Children in Zimbabwe

Indicators of child well-being vary across the world, as dominant social, political, cultural, and economic practices differ by region. The author of this article presents the case of Zimbabwe and the factors that affect children's welfare through education in that country. Persisting political instability, widespread violence, economic crises, and natural disasters are common factors affecting children worldwide. Zimbabwe serves as a powerful reminder to policymakers about the importance of prioritizing children's needs in the face of great social, economic, and political challenges.
The electronic publishing revolution is not “global”

Proclamations of a global information revolution are in accord with the daily experience of many who live in wealthy countries where interactive CD-ROM products are now being released and high-bandwidth computer networks are essential tools for research and development communities. However, the phrase sounds somewhat glib to many of those who live in poorer countries. This article reviews the global distribution of electronic publishing products and services. It details many of the promising projects now underway, particularly those undertaken in computer networking, and surveys some of the major problems that continue to beset attempts to expand electronic publishing services in the developing world
A compact model of oil supply disruptions

Abstract We have developed a model of oil price jumps caused by oil supply disruptions. The core of the model is a compact general equilibrium model of oil demand. Given an exogenous forecast of oil supply and potential GNP for the world, the model can forecast the oil price, real GNP, and value added for the world. The data base for the model consists of historical time series of world oil supply, world oil price, and growth rates for world GNP. The data demonstrate that small changes in oil supply are associated with large changes in oil price. If a large change in oil price causes a small change in oil consumption, the short-run price elasticity of demand must be small. We have specified a model with a short-run and a long-run price elasticity. The six parameters in the model have been estimated using historical data for three cases. The initial model had five parameters. For Case 1, we used a search procedure to determine the parameters that minimized the root mean square (RMS) of the differences between the price backcast by the model and the historical data on oil price. We found that the RMS error was 121% and that the price calculated by the model was too low for the period from 1974 to 1980. After a review of the historical data on oil consumption, oil price, and world GNP, we concluded that the response of the world oil market to the 1974 oil price shock was different than the response to the 1979-80 oil price shock. After the jump in oil price from 1973 to 1974, the consumption of oil decreased in 1975 but quickly recovered and reached a peak in 1979. After the jump in oil price from 1978 to 1980, the consumption of oil declined steadily for four consecutive years. To improve the model's capacity to simulate the historical data, we introduced a technological change factor that increases the demand for oil in the period from 1971 to 1979. For Case 2, the rate of technological change is 3.8% and the RMS error is 35%. For Case 3, the rate of technological change is 7.0% and the RMS error is 29%. Although Case 3 has the smallest error, we concluded that the Case 2 set of parameters provided the best match for the historical data on world oil price. For Case 2, we find a small short-run elasticity ( − 0.09), a substantial long-run elasticity ( − 0.92), and a lag of 0.08, which corresponds to 12 years. We have invented an oil price scenario that is similar to the historical data and have determined the corresponding oil supply scenario for the Case 2 set of parameters. We have investigated the impact of an increase or decrease of five million barrels per day in 1998.
The high temperature elastic moduli of aluminum

Measurements of the elastic moduli of aluminum over the temperature range 300°–930°K are reported. These data together with those reported for T < 300°K, show that all elastic moduli, including the shear moduli, vary smoothly with the temperature, up to the melting point, in contrast to other measurements at lower ultrasonic frequencies. From the data, a high temperature Gruneisen constant of 2·17 is calculated. The temperature dependence of the shear moduli at room temperature is calculated from Leigh's model, and the results of this calculation are compared with the experimentally determined data, and with the pressure dependence of the elastic moduli.
Capturing, processing, and rendering real-world scenes

While photographs vividly capture a scene from a single viewpoint, it is our goal to capture a scene in such a way that a viewer can freely move to any viewpoint, just as he or she would in an actual scene. We have built a prototype system to quickly digitize a scene using a laser rangefinder and a high-resolution digital camera that accurately captures a panorama of high-resolution range and color information. With real-world scenes, we have provided data to fuel research in many area, including representation, registration, data fusion, polygonization, rendering, simplification, and reillumination. The real-world scene data can be used for many purposes, including immersive environments, immersive training, re-engineering and engineering verification, renovation, crime-scene and accident capture and reconstruction, archaeology and historic preservation, sports and entertainment, surveillance, remote tourism and remote sales. We will describe our acquisition system, the necessary processing to merge data from the multiple input devices and positions. We will also describe high quality rendering using the data we have collected. Issues about specific rendering accelerators and algorithms will also be presented. We will conclude by describing future uses and methods of collection for real- world scene data.
Quality of life in long-term survivors after liver transplantation: impact of recurrent viral hepatitis C virus hepatitis.

Post liver transplant recurrence of infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) occurs in approximately 50 of patients transplanted because of HCV-related liver disease. The aim of this study was to assess long-term quality of life, psychologic distress, and coping in patients with recurrent HCV after liver transplantation in comparison to patients transplanted for other etiologies of underlying liver disease. All liver transplant recipients transplanted at a University affiliated Veterans Affairs Medical Center who had greater than 6 months follow-up were sent a questionnaire investigating quality of life (assessed by Medical Outcomes study health survey SF-36), depression (assessed by Beck Depression Inventory), total mood disturbance (assessed by Profile of Mood States scale), coping (assessed by Billing and Moos Inventory of coping with illnesses), and employment status. Lower Beck Depression Inventory score (p = 0.001), lower mood disturbance score (p = 0.0001), overall satisfaction with present work (p = 0.0001), and lesser use of avoidant coping (p = 0.06) were predictors of better quality of life in long-term survivors of liver transplantation. At a mean follow-up of 4 yr after liver transplantation, patients with histopathologically diagnosed recurrent viral HCV hepatitis had significantly lower global quality of life score (mean score of 76.4 versus 86.2, p = 0.011) and physical functioning score (mean score 20 versus 25, p = 0.015), as compared to all other patients. In summary, quality of life and physical functioning were significantly impaired in liver transplant recipients with histopathologically diagnosed recurrent HCV hepatitis, as compared to those whose HCV hepatitis had not recurred or those transplanted for other reasons.
Involvement of local serotonin-2A but not serotonin-1B receptors in the reinforcing effects of ethanol within the posterior ventral tegmental area of female Wistar rats

Rationale Previous studies indicated that ethanol could be self-infused into the posterior ventral tegmental area (p-VTA) and that activation of local serotonin-3 (5-HT3) receptors was involved. 5-HT1B and 5-HT2A receptors are involved in the effects of 5-HT and ethanol on VTA dopamine neurons.
Developmental morphology of the axial skeleton of the zebrafish, Danio rerio (Ostariophysi: Cyprinidae).

Before our rapidly increasing knowledge of gene interactions can be connected with the morphologic defects in mutant zebrafish, the normal course of skeletal development must be understood. Here, we describe the developmental morphology of the axial skeleton of zebrafish and review it in relation to the morphology of related species. The relative sequence of ossification in the skeleton is described. Two separate centers of development were found in the axial skeleton (Weberian apparatus and caudal fin) in contrast to tetrapods, which have a single anterior center. Slight variation was found in the overall relative timing of development. The extensive ichthyological literature on teleost anatomy and recent genetic data form the basis for our review and interpretation of homologies of various elements of the axial skeleton. Because homology forms the basis for all evolutionary comparisons, these data are critical for integration in evo-devo studies.
Vascular endothelial growth factor delivery via gene therapy for diabetic wounds: first steps.

Nonhealing wounds are a major complication of diabetes. Diabetic foot ulcerations (DFUs) affect 12–15% of patients with diabetes mellitus during their lifetime (Reiber et al., 1995). As a result, DFUs impair quality of life, cause significant morbidity, and account for 20% of all diabetes-related hospital admissions. A majority of neuropathic DFUs fail to heal even after 5 months of therapy, and foot ulcers precede 85% of nontraumatic amputations in patients with diabetes, indicating a need for better therapy (Margolis et al., 1999).
Epidemiological observations and heterosis analysis of gastrointestinal nematode parasitism in Suffolk, Gulf Coast Native, and crossbred lambs.

Abstract A crossbreeding program was conducted to evaluate the resistant status to gastrointestinal nematode parasite infection in crossbred (F 1 ) lambs and their Suffolk and Gulf Coast Native (Native) breed counterparts. A total of 253 lambs were included in the study over 2 years. Fecal egg count (FEC) and blood packed cell volume (PCV) of 18–20 monitor lambs of each breed group in each year were collected every other week from birth to 24–30 weeks of age. The FEC and PCV of all lambs were determined at weaning (11–12 weeks of age) and at three subsequent times when anthelmintic treatment was administered. Nematode counts of wether lambs were obtained at 30 weeks of age in the first year. The epidemiological patterns of FEC and PCV of each breed group were similar in both years. The Suffolk group consistently showed the highest FEC and the lowest PCV. Conversely, the Native group had the lowest FEC and highest PCV. For the most part, all parameters for the F 1 group fell intermediate to the Native and Suffolk groups. Nematode count followed the same pattern. Heterosis analysis showed that FEC, PCV, nematode count and weight gain of the F 1 group favored the Native group. These results suggested that crossbreeding Suffolk to Native sheep may be a suitable way to produce lambs with improved resistance to gastrointestinal nematode infection, but production may be compromised.
Inhibitory EflEect of Pituitary Factor on Phagocytosis and Iodine Metabolism in Human Leukocytes

A pituitary factor decreasing iodine uptake and protein-bound iodine formation in human leukocytes was found in semi-purified preparations of TSH, LH, FSH, GH and in crude anterior pituitary extract. ACTH, insulin, serum gamma globulin, myoglobin and ceruloplasmin were ineffective in comparison to control samples incubated with serum albumin. TSH, in relation to dose (0.01–0.5 U/ml), significantly decreased the total uptake, formation, and release of iodocompounds from phagocytic leukocytes. The amount of iodocompounds released from resting or phagocytic leukocytes into the media was twice as high as the amount of organically bound iodine that remained in the cells. These data suggest that iodine-containing compounds are actively formed, metabolized, and released from human leukocytes. Because TSH also decreases engulfment of latex microparticles, the observed changes in iodine metabolism are probably secondary, due to the reduced phagocytosis. The presence of an unknown factor in the semipurified prepara...
The effect of biodegradation on crude oil bulk and molecular composition

Abstract A laboratory simulation of an oil spill was used to monitor the effect of microbial alteration on crude oil molecular, bulk and carbon isotopic compositions. The rate of microbial alteration of alkanes decreased with increasing carbon number. Straight-chain alkanes were more rapidly removed than branched (isoprenoid) hydrocarbons though ultimately even the isoprenoids were degraded. Aromatic compounds were also altered. Isomer specific degradation was observed within a given aromatic alkylation (i.e. methylphenanthrenes). The most stable properties, under the given conditions, were carbon isotopic composition, Ni/V ratios, total scanning fluorescence spectra, and various molecular distributions. Aromatics with two or more rings and more than a two carbon substitution, triterpanes and steranes were relatively stable. Mono- and tri-aromatized steranes were substantially altered. These stable chemical properties or fingerprints are suggested as unique and sensitive indicators that can be used to determine the source of microbially altered hydrocarbons in the environment.
Communication between the zinc and nickel sites in dimeric HypA: metal recognition and pH sensing.

Helicobacter pylori, a pathogen that colonizes the human stomach, requires the nickel-containing metalloenzymes urease and NiFe-hydrogenase to survive this low pH environment. The maturation of both enzymes depends on the metallochaperone, HypA. HypA contains two metal sites, an intrinsic zinc site and a low-affinity nickel binding site. X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) shows that the structure of the intrinsic zinc site of HypA is dynamic and able to sense both nickel loading and pH changes. At pH 6.3, an internal pH that occurs during acid shock, the zinc site undergoes unprecedented ligand substitutions to convert from a Zn(Cys)4 site to a Zn(His)2(Cys)2 site. NMR spectroscopy shows that binding of Ni(II) to HypA results in paramagnetic broadening of resonances near the N-terminus. NOEs between the β-CH2 protons of Zn cysteinyl ligands are consistent with a strand-swapped HypA dimer. Addition of nickel causes resonances from the zinc binding motif and other regions to double, indicating more than on...
IgG4-related systemic disease and lymphoplasmacytic aortitis

We describe herein a patient who developed a dissection of the ascending aorta in the setting of IgG4-related systemic disease, linking IgG4-related systemic disease with a newly-recognized subset of noninfectious aortitis. At the time of aortic surgery, a transmural lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate was detected in the patient's aorta, with a principal focus of inflammation within the media. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that >50% of the plasma cells in the lesion stained for IgG4. By in situ hybridization, the plasma cells showed polytypic staining for kappa and lambda light chains, consistent with a polyclonal plasma cell infiltrate. Serologic evaluation revealed that the patient's IgG4 levels were elevated nearly 10-fold. Four years before aortic surgery, the patient had undergone a mediastinal lymph node biopsy. Reexamination of the lymph node revealed features consistent with IgG4-related systemic disease, which had not been recognized at the time of the original biopsy. Glucocorticoid therapy for the IgG4-related systemic disease yielded a prompt response. Recognition that IgG4-related systemic disease can involve the ascending as well as the descending abdominal aorta indicates the need for a change in the way idiopathic aortitis is regarded. This case offers new potential considerations for short- and long-term management of noninfectious aortitis, because of the frequent good response of IgG4-related systemic disease to glucocorticoid treatment without additional therapy. Treatment of the aortitis may prevent progression of the IgG4-related systemic disease to involvement of other organs. IgG4-related systemic disease should be considered in all patients with aortitis judged to be of unknown etiology.
H-R DIAGRAMS BASED ON THE HD STARS IN THE MICHIGAN SPECTRAL CATALOGUE AND THE HIPPARCOS CATALOG

The systematic, spectroscopic two-dimensional classification of the HD stars by N. H. is approximately three-quarters complete. Over 161,000 stars have been classified visually using 10° objective-prism plates (2 A resolution) taken at CTIO with the Michigan Curtis Schmidt telescope. The published portion of this large, homogeneous database, taken from volumes 1-5 of the Michigan Spectral Catalogue (declination -90° to +5°), has been used to create an H-R diagram. The Hipparcos parallax measurements provide a large homogenous database, too. H-R diagrams of the HD stars found in both catalogs are produced for distances to 20, 50, 100, and 200 pc.
Virus expanded regulatory T cells control disease severity in the Theiler's virus mouse model of MS.

Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV)-induced demyelinating disease (TMEV-IDD) serves as virus-induced model of chronic progressive multiple sclerosis. Infection of susceptible SJL/J mice leads to life-long CNS virus persistence and a progressive autoimmune demyelinating disease mediated by myelin-specific T cells activated via epitope spreading. In contrast, virus is rapidly cleared by a robust CTL response in TMEV-IDD-resistant C57BL/6 mice. We investigated whether differential induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs) controls susceptibility to TMEV-IDD. Infection of disease-susceptible SJL/J, but not B6 mice, leads to rapid activation and expansion of Tregs resulting in an unfavorable CNS ratio of Treg:Teffector cells. In addition, anti-CD25-induced inactivation of Tregs in susceptible SJL/J, but not resistant B6, mice results in significantly decreased clinical disease concomitant with enhanced anti-viral CD4+, CD8+ and antibody responses resulting in decreased CNS viral titers. This is the first demonstration that virus-induced Treg activation regulates susceptibility to autoimmune disease differentially in susceptible and resistant strains of mice and provides a new mechanistic explanation for the etiology of infection-induced autoimmunity.
Energetics of the magnetosphere

Energy flow in various large-scale processes of the Earth's magnetosphere is examined. This energy comes from the solar wind, via the dawn-to-dusk convection electric field, a field established primarily by magnetic merging but with viscous-like boundary interaction as a possible contributor. The convection field passes about 5 × 1011 W to the near-Earth part of the plasma sheet, and also moves the plasma earthward. In addition, 1–3 × 1011 W are given to the complex system of the Birkeland currents: about 4 × 1010 of this, on the average, goes to parallel acceleration, chiefly of auroral electrons, about 2–3 times that amount to joule heating of the ionosphere, and the rest heats the ring current. The ring current stores energy (mainly as kinetic energy of particles) of the order of 2 × 1015 J, and this value rises and decays during magnetic storms, on time scales ranging from a fraction of a day to several days. The tail can store comparable amounts as magnetic energy, and appreciable fractions of its energy may be released in substorms, on time scales of tens of minutes. The sporadic power level of such events reaches the order of 3 × 1012 W. The role of magnetic merging in such releases of magnetic energy is briefly discussed, as is the correlation between properties of the solar wind and magnetospheric power levels.
Dynamic buckling of ring stiffened cylindrical shells

The dynamic stability of ring stiffened cylindrical shells under axial and lateral step loads is investigated. The effects of initial geometric imperfection and the eccentricity of the stiffeners on the dynamic buckling loads of the shell are determined. Studies show that ring-stiffened cylinders are imperfection-sensitive and can buckle at a load considerably smaller than that predicted for perfect shells. The study also demonstrated that the essential mechanism for the imperfection sensitivity in the dynamic range is the so-called "column" asymmetric mode withm = 1 andn> >l.
Field statistics in some generalized Jaynes-Cummings models

Photon statistics in some fully quantized models of the interaction of a two-level atom with a single-mode radiation field have been studied using the operator equations of motion. Expressions for the photon number distribution and the mean photon number are presented for various initial conditions. It is found that the mean photon number may show decays and revivals of coherence similar to those of the atomic inversion in the coherent-state Jaynes-Cummings model. Application of these models to the study of multiphoton laser, absorption, and emission processes is also discussed.
Predicting citations to journal articles: The ideal number of references

The increasing number of references in scientific journal articles suggests editors may prefer articles with many references. Articles in first position in a journal issue are found to have more references. Researchers also may prefer articles with many references. Two hypotheses are proposed to explain this preference: 1) If references represent the adequacy of review of relevant literature (an explanation “internal” to science), then the number of references per page will affect citations. 2) If references directly influence readers’ judgment of quality (an explanation “external” to science), then the total number of references will affect citations. Regression analysis of articles in sociology supports hypothesis two. References may affect citations to an article; references per page do not. The ideal number of references in a sociology article is estimated at sixty-six.
Design and Fabrication of a Functionally Modified Bimorph Actuator

In recent years, the use of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices has led to high performing actuators for various applications, including unmanned air vehicles (UAVs) for defense applications. The incorporation of MEMS technology in this field has resulted in miniaturized UAVs with the capability of carrying out sophisticated reconnaissance and relaying real time information remotely; however, maneuverability of these devices around obstacles is still a challenge. This paper presents the design and fabrication of a functionally modified bimorph actuator with enhanced UAV aerodynamics and maneuverability. The actuator is a metal-based MEMS device consisting of stainless steel, lead zirconate titanate (PZT), and titanium/platinum electrodes. COMSOL analysis was performed to examine optimal device design parameters and is presented in this paper. The design consists of off-axis PZT segments on a bimorph PZT layer which results in bend twist coupling. A detailed description of the fabrication process flow developed based on the optimization of the device design is also given. MEMS processing technology was incorporated to produce a torsional cantilever beam that produces angular and linear displacement for superior UAV maneuverability and its performance is also presented in this paper.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
A quantum string theory of hadrons and its relation to quantum chromodynamics in two dimensions

Abstract We propose an interacting quantum string theory of hadrons which has a close relation with quantum chromodynamics (QCD). Hadrons are constructed by attaching, massive, spin - 1 2 quarks, with internal symmetry, to the ends of strings. The string has independent longitudinal modes of oscillation which play a major role in the agreement with QCD. The string-string interactions are formulated in a new Hamiltonian formalism which allows strings to join or split only by quark-antiquark annihilation. Weak-electromagnetic gauge bosons are coupled to the flavor group of the quarks. By specializing to two dimensions, it is shown that quantum chromodynamics is equivalent to this string theory, in the sense that the mesonic and baryonic spectra, and the strong, weak and electromagnetic vertices for hadrons are identical in these two theories.
Ten Keys to The Labyrinth of Solitude

Translated by Alfred Mac Adam Enrico Mario Santi is the William T. Bryan Professor of Hispanic Studies at the University of Kentucky, Lexington. He has authored books on Jose Marti, Pablo Neruda, F...
Quantitative Theory of the Two-Photon Ionization of the Alkali Atoms

The theory of two-photon ionization of the alkali atoms is developed from the well-known perturbation formula for the second-order transition rate. Quantum defect Coulomb functions are used for both the negative and positive energy states. Spin-orbit splitting of the intermediate $p$ states is taken into account. The results are presented as dispersion curves of the transition rate for photon energies between the two-photon and one-photon thresholds. Cesium is of particular interest because the photon energy for the second harmonic of ruby laser light falls very near the $10{p}^{2}{P}_{\frac{3}{2}}$ level. For a photon energy of 3.57 eV, the transition rate (in cgs units) is found to be 2.6\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}49}$\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${(\mathrm{photon}\mathrm{flux})}^{2}$.
Building theory with BRICs: Russia's contribution to knowledge sharing theory

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to address theory development in the context of Russia, where insights holding potential to advance knowledge sharing theory are ubiquitous. Drawing on contextual evidence, the paper aims to advance a theoretical framework for the study of knowledge sharing, an activity essential for the organizational change and development required for building competitiveness. It also aims to outline research needs that might both provide insight in Russia and also enrich extant theory originally developed in the West.Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents a review of the theory of planned behavior, its application to knowledge sharing, and the cultural environment suggest modifications that contextualize the theory for studying knowledge sharing in Russia and in other contexts.Findings – Propositions based on contextual considerations in Russia are advanced as a means of modifying and augmenting the theory of planned behavior to better address knowledge sharing more com...
Outsourcing and strategic alliances for product development: a case of Banta Digital Group

Abstract Banta Digital Group (BDG) is a pre media company needing to fill a void in the market it serves. This need could be met by an application that consisted of software and database development. A problem arose due to two conditions. First, the company was late getting to the market with this product. Second, the company did not have dedicated resources to work on this project. BDG needed to adopt a solution that comprised of outsourcing and strategic alliances to fill this market need. The study reports how the company selected and managed strategic alliances through the creation of a virtual team. It also reviews details of the new business operating system instituted to foster an environment for further product and process innovation. Finally, the proposed approach used in this unique type of product development is described, which is also applicable in many business situations.
Thermal noise in high electron mobility transistors

Abstract Thermal noise in HEMT devices is evaluated for arbitrary drain voltages including saturation. The results closely resemble those for MOSFETS. The consequences of hot electron effects are indicated, and the effects due to feedback via the series resistance Rs on the source side of the channel are evaluated. For very short channels the noise resistance Rn can be relatively large because the transconductance gmax at saturation is so much smaller than the drain conductance gd0 at zero drain bias.
Cytoskeletal dissolution blocks oxidant release and cell death in injured cartilage.

The mechanisms by which articular surface impact causes post-traumatic osteoarthritis are not well understood, but studies of cartilage explants implicate the mitochondrial electron transport chain as a source of oxidants that cause chondrocyte death from mechanical injury. The linkage of mitochondria to the cytoskeleton suggests that they might release oxidants in response to mechanical strain, an effect that disrupting the cytoskeleton would prevent. To test this we investigated the effects of agents that promote the dissolution of microfilaments (cytochalasin B) or microtubules (nocodazole) on oxidant production and chondrocyte death following impact injury. Osteochondral explants treated with cytochalasin B or nocodazole for 4 h were impacted (7 J/cm(2)) and stained for oxidant production directly after impact and for cell viability 24 h after impact. Surfaces within and outside impact sites were then imaged by confocal microscopy. Both agents significantly reduced impact-induced oxidant release (p 60% reduction vs. 40% reduction, respectively). Both agents also prevented impact induced cell death. Dissolution of the cytoskeleton by both drugs was confirmed by phalloidin staining and confocal microscopy. These findings show that chondrocyte mortality from impact injury depends substantially on mitochondrial-cytoskeletal linkage, suggesting new approaches to stem mechanically induced cartilage degeneration.
Prediction of field-time-dependent gate-oxide breakdown in MOS devices☆

The model for field-time-dependent breakdown in the gate oxide of MOS devices is extended and verified with experimental data. The model permits accelerated tests at high fields which can be used to predict gate-oxide breakdowns at much longer times at normal operating fields.
A theoretical review of SS 433.

Abstract The “twin jet model” for SS 433 is briefly described, and its likely superiorority to other models demonstrated. It is then used as a framework within which the implications of the main observational results are discussed. Many theoretical questions about SS 433 are raised, but only few are answered.
High Dimensional Model Representations

In the chemical sciences, many laboratory experiments, environmental and industrial processes, as well as modeling exercises, are characterized by large numbers of input variables. A general objective in such cases is an exploration of the high-dimensional input variable space as thoroughly as possible for its impact on observable system behavior, often with either optimization in mind or simply for achieving a better understanding of the phenomena involved. An important concern when undertaking these explorations is the number of experiments or modeling excursions necessary to effectively learn the system input → output behavior, which is typically a nonlinear relationship. Although simple logic suggests that the number of runs could grow exponentially with the number of input variables, broadscale evidence indicates that the required effort often scales far more comfortably. This paper considers an emerging family of high dimensional model representation concepts and techniques capable of dealing with s...
Simultaneous Isoform Discovery and Quantification from RNA-Seq

RNA sequencing is a recent technology which has seen an explosion of methods addressing all levels of analysis, from read mapping to transcript assembly to differential expression modeling. In particular the discovery of isoforms at the transcript assembly stage is a complex problem and current approaches suffer from various limitations. For instance, many approaches use graphs to construct a minimal set of isoforms which covers the observed reads, then perform a separate algorithm to quantify the isoforms, which can result in a loss of power. Current methods also use ad-hoc solutions to deal with the vast number of possible isoforms which can be constructed from a given set of reads. Finally, while the need of taking into account features such as read pairing and sampling rate of reads has been acknowledged, most existing methods do not seamlessly integrate these features as part of the model. We present Montebello, an integrated statistical approach which performs simultaneous isoform discovery and quantification by using a Monte Carlo simulation to find the most likely isoform composition leading to a set of observed reads. We compare Montebello to Cufflinks, a popular isoform discovery approach, on a simulated data set and on 46.3 million brain reads from an Illumina tissue panel. On this data set Montebello appears to offer a modest improvement over Cufflinks when considering discovery and parsimony metrics. In addition Montebello mitigates specific difficulties inherent in the Cufflinks approach. Finally, Montebello can be fine-tuned depending on the type of solution desired.
Pseudorandom bits generated by chaotic maps

Different possibilities of using chaotic maps as pseudorandom number generators are discussed. A class of chaos-based pseudorandom bit generators is constructed. We give simple arguments to explain the unpredictability of the generators.
The evolving postbaccalaureate entry: Analysis of occupational therapy entry-level master's degree in the United States

At the American Occupational Therapy Association's Annual Conference in 1999, the Representative Assembly passed Resolution J, which became Resolution 670-99 and mandated that entry to the professional level of practice in occupational therapy be at the post-baccalaureate degree level. The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) set the effective date as 2007. As a result, more than 50 of the existing 157 occupational therapy educational programs faced the challenge of developing postbaccalaureate entry degree programs. These programs had previously offered only baccalaureate entry degrees. This article compiles the expectations that were articulated as outcomes of transitioning to postbaccalaureate entry, describes findings from an analysis of the current structure of the evolving master's entry level occupational therapy education and identifies concerns for consideration by educational programs and practitioners.
Assessment of exit block following pulmonary vein isolation: Far-field capture masquerading as entrance without exit block

Background Complete electrical isolation of pulmonary veins (PVs) remains the cornerstone of ablation therapy for atrial fibrillation. Entrance block without exit block has been reported to occur in 40% of the patients. Far-field capture (FFC) can occur during pacing from the superior PVs to assess exit block, and this may appear as persistent conduction from PV to left atrium (LA). Objective To facilitate accurate assessment of exit block. Methods Twenty consecutive patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation referred for ablation were included in the study. Once PV isolation (entrance block) was confirmed, pacing from all the bipoles on the Lasso catheter was used to assess exit block by using a pacing stimulus of 10 mA at 2 ms. Evidence for PV capture without conduction to LA was necessary to prove exit block. If conduction to LA was noticed, pacing output was decreased until there was PV capture without conduction to LA or no PV capture was noted to assess for far-field capture in both the upper PVs. Results All 20 patients underwent successful isolation (entrance block) of all 76 (4 left common PV) veins: mean age 58 ± 9 years; paroxysmal atrial fibrillation 40%; hypertension 70%, diabetes mellitus 30%, coronary artery disease 15%; left ventricular ejection fraction 55% ± 10%; LA size 42 ± 11 mm. Despite entrance block, exit block was absent in only 16% of the PVs, suggesting persistent PV to LA conduction. FFC of LA appendage was noted in 38% of the left superior PVs. FFC of the superior vena cava was noted in 30% of the right superior PVs. The mean pacing threshold for FFC was 7 ± 4 mA. Decreasing pacing output until only PV capture (loss of FFC) is noted was essential to confirm true exit block. Conclusions FFC of LA appendage or superior vena cava can masquerade as persistent PV to LA conduction. A careful assessment for PV capture at decreasing pacing output is essential to exclude FFC.
Millimeter Interferometric Polarization Imaging of the Young Stellar Object NGC 1333/IRAS 4A

We present a 3.4 mm polarization image of the dust emission associated with the young stellar object NGC 1333/IRAS 4A made with the Owens Valley Millimeter Array with 5'' resolution. The integrated linear polarization of the dust continuum is 4% of the total intensity. The polarization is produced by magnetically aligned dust grains and arises from very dense gas (n > 108 cm-3), which indicates that the dust alignment process remains viable in the dense protostellar envelope. The magnetic field directions inferred from our observations are aligned with features seen in the high-velocity outflow emanating from IRAS 4A. The magnetic field directions are not aligned with the field on much larger scales as measured by optical and infrared selective extinction, which suggests significant field structure in the cloud core. The peak of the polarized emission is offset from the total intensity peak, which perhaps indicates considerable unresolved structure in the magnetic field.
On the perception of targeting by predators during attacks on socially feeding birds

We examined the spatial perception of predator targeting by prey during simulated hawk attacks on house finch, Carpodacus mexicanus, flocks, with an overall goal of gaining insight into the targeting process itself. Predator targeting of specific prey during attacks determines how danger is distributed among group members, and thereby determines key aspects of the safety of feeding in groups, such as risk dilution and its relationship to antipredator vigilance. During the main experiment, a model hawk suddenly appeared at either 3 m or 9 m from finches feeding near protective cover. The 9 m attacks always caused nearly all birds to flee to cover. During 3 m attacks, only birds directly in the line of attack fled to cover; the other birds instead consistently flew nearly perpendicular to the attack and away from cover. These results suggest that most finches did not perceive themselves to be targeted for attack when the hawk appeared at close range; otherwise, all birds appeared to perceive themselves as potential targets. A second experiment demonstrated that information about predator targeting is derived from observation of the predator itself rather than the behaviour of flockmates in the direct line of attack. A third experiment demonstrated that distance to cover also influenced the birds’ response to targeting; thus, reactions to apparent nontargeting were not simply a matter of moving away from the line of attack. The differential perception of targeting during an attack is probably a widespread phenomenon in social birds and other animals.
Pharmacological Approaches to Reducing Craving in Patients with Alcohol Use Disorders

Research on the concept of craving may lead to better understanding of the biobehavioural circuitries that contribute to the complexity of alcohol use disorders (AUDs). The experiences described as craving or desire to drink are often associated with physical responses such as increased salivation and heart rate, and alteration of stress hormones, as well as psychological responses such as anxiety and depression. Greater craving has been associated with an increased probability of alcohol relapse. Reversal of craving, which is understood as a symptom of protracted abstinence, offers the possibility of preventing relapses and treating alcoholism. Various medications have been studied to establish whether they are able to reduce craving; however, the results obtained from clinical studies have been inconsistent. Here, we review the interdisciplinary models developed to evaluate craving, then the different approaches used to assess and measure craving and, finally, the medications utilized and tested to lessen craving in patients suffering from AUDs.
Noninvasive intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms and mucinous cystic neoplasms: Recurrence rates and postoperative imaging follow-up

Background Although surveillance guidelines for resected invasive mucinous neoplastic cysts are well-established, those for noninvasive cysts are not defined. We used our experience with resected noninvasive mucinous neoplastic cysts to define recurrence rates and the optimal frequency of postoperative imaging follow-up. Methods We reviewed the medical records of 134 patients with resected, pathologically confirmed noninvasive mucinous neoplasms between 2002 and 2012. Demographics, comorbidities, cyst characteristics, and recurrence were evaluated. Survival analysis was used to estimate the distribution of time to recurrence and regression models were used to investigate factors associated with recurrence. Results Eighty-seven patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) were compared with 47 patients with mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs). Those with MCNs were more often females ( P = .001), significantly younger ( P = .001), more symptomatic ( P = .009), and had cysts more often located in the tail ( P P = .014). On multivariable analysis, size >3 cm ( P = .027), higher grade dysplasia ( P = .043), and positive resection margins ( P Conclusion Resected noninvasive IPMNs with moderate- or high-grade dysplasia and negative resection margins require imaging follow-up every 2 years, given the 16% overall recurrence rate. Although the follow-up interval for noninvasive, low-grade, dysplastic IPMNs with negative margins could be lengthened, all noninvasive IPMNs having positive margins require yearly follow-up at the minimum. Resected noninvasive MCNs––irrespective of grade and margin status––do not require surveillance, although the development of branch duct-IPMNs in the remnant pancreas can be investigated in the long term at the discretion of the provider.
Convective instability of stably stratified water in the ocean

A recent theoretical description of interactions between surface waves and currents in the ocean is extended to allow density stratification. The interaction leads to a convective instability even when the density stratification is statically stable. An unspecified random surface wave field is permitted provided that it is statistically stationary.The instability can be traced to torques produced by variations of a ‘vortex force’. Non-diffusive instabilities produced by this mechanism in water of infinite depth are explored in detail for arbitrary distributions of the destabilizing force. Stability is determined by an eigenvalue problem formally identical to that determining normal modes of infinitesimal internal waves in fluid with a density profile that is not monotone and thereby has a statically unstable region. Some tentative remarks are offered about the problem when dissipation is allowed.Application of the present theory to Langmuir circulations is discussed. Also, according to the present theory, internal wave propagation should be modified by the vortex force arising from the interaction between the surface waves and the current.