cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Role of Rights in Practical Reasoning: ``Rights'' versus ``Needs''

This paper considers the proposal, associated with the CriticalLegal Studies movement (CLS) that the language of rights shouldbe replaced with the language of needs. It argues that thelanguage of needs is no less contestable, and has an even lesssecure relation to the idea of social duty than the idea ofrights. The paper rejects the notion that rights are usuallynegative claims on others – claims to their forbearance –and argues that rights can be understood perfectly well as adiscourse in which affirmative claims are articulated. Moreover,rights are naturally associated with the idea of a moral system– a well-thought-through set of demands, in which potentialconflicts have been addressed and resolved. The concept ofneed does not have such systemic implications.
Synchronization for RF carrier frequency hopped OFDM: analysis and simulation

In this work, we apply RF carrier frequency hopping to orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (FH-OFDM) and study the hop rate capability using realistic performance of signal acquisition/synchronization of the unknown time and frequency offset parameters. OFDM synchronization is a challenging task without RF carrier hopping due to OFDM's sensitivity to time and frequency offsets. Given sufficient synchronization estimation performance is achieved, our objective is to determine the hop rate capabilities for OFDM using two different data-aided synchronization approaches. The first method is based on sending information in a preamble before the OFDM payload symbol. The second method embeds known synchronization information directly into the OFDM symbol stream. Using differential QPSK-OFDM modulation and spectral efficiency greater than 1 bps/Hz, results indicate that sufficient synchronization performance can be achieved for hop rates greater than 6 and 1 khops/sec for the preamble- and embedded-based synchronizers, respectively.
Transepithelial transport of insulin: I. Insulin degradation by insulin-degrading enzyme in small intestinal epithelium.

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine the existence of insulin-degrading enzyme (EC 3.4.22.11) (IDE) in rat intestinal enterocytes.
Advanced Treatment of Intractable Childhood Epilepsy

Twenty to thirty percent of children with epilepsy continue to have seizures despite anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) treatment and are defined as medically intractable epilepsy. Intractable epilepsy frequently has developmental impact, causing permanent neurodevelopmental deficits in children. Recently developed neurodiagnostic studies and treatment modalities have substantially altered the management of patients with intractable epilepsy. The newly developed AEDs are frequently used for the treatment of patients unresponsive to conventional AEDs. Nonpharmacologic options for intractable epilepsy include dietary therapy such as ketogenic diet and modified Atkins diet, epilepsy surgery, and neuromodulatory treatments such as vagus nerve stimulation. Ketogenic diet is an effective and safe treatment for epilepsy in children; increasing use has led to modification of protocol for higher efficacy and better tolerability. When epilepsy is intractable to medical treatment, epilepsy surgery including surgical resection of epileptogenic area, or palliative surgery can be considered. Vagal Nerve Stimulation is recommended for patients who are not candidates for resective surgery. These nonpharmcologic treatments could result in resumption of developmental progress in patients with childhood intractable epilepsy.Active application of newly developed medical and surgical treatments could provide better outcome in seizure control and developmental progress in patients with intractable epilepsy.
Purification and characterization of the naturally occurring allelic variants of sn-glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase in Drosophila melanogaster.

Abstract 1. 1. The naturally occurring electrophoretic variants of sn-glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and a heterodimetric form of the enzyme resulting from a genetic cross of two variant strains of Drosophila were purified to homogeneity by a combination of DEAE-cellulose chromatography and 8-(6-aminohexyl)-amino-ATP-Sepharose affinity chromatography. 2. 2. Each purified protein was compared with respect to a number of physicochemical and kinetic properties. All forms of the enzyme were found to be similar, except for pI differences associated with the electrophoretic variation observed.
Crystalline ferredoxin from the photosynthetic bacterium chromatium

Abstract Ferredoxin has been isolated and crystallized from the photosynthetic bacterium Chromatium . It is similar to other ferredoxins in having an equivalent amount of iron and inorganic sulfide, a strongly electronegative oxidative-reduction potential and a capacity to substitute for native chloroplast ferredoxin in mediating the reduction of NADP + . Chromatium ferredoxin differs in its iron content and its more electronegative oxidation-reduction potential from the other ferredoxins that have been isolated so far.
AirMOSS: An Airborne P-band SAR to measure root-zone soil moisture

A keystone of the Airborne Microwave Observatory of Subcanopy and Subsurface (AirMOSS) investigation is the P-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), which will provide calibrated polarimetric measurements that will be used to retrieve the root-zone soil moisture (RZSM) over regional scale (250 kha) areas imaged. The radar is based on JPL's L-band Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle Synthetic Aperture Radar (UAVSAR) system. It is currently under development and scheduled to begin flights in mid-2012. The AirMOSS P-band SAR inherits UAVSAR's existing L-band RF and digital electronics subsystems. New up- and down-converters convert the L-band signals to UHF frequencies (280–440 MHz). The passive antenna is based on the legacy GeoSAR design.
Spatial self-organization of a nanoscale structure on the Pt(111) surface

A self-organized nanostructure has been observed on the Cr/Pt(111) system. Cr overlayers with various coverages were deposited on a Pt(111) surface. Upon annealing to different temperatures, metastable surface alloys characteristic for a miscible metallic system have been observed. For a limited coverage range from 1.5 to 3.0 ML and an annealing temperature of 800 K, a spatial self-organization takes place on the bimetallic surface, forming a highly ordered hexagonal superstructure. The scanning tunnel microscope contrast of the superstructure is sensitive to the bias voltage, resulting in different patterns: either a mosaic structure and/or a network consisting of one-atom-wide lines. Relative to the Pt(111) surface, the superstructure has a $(\sqrt{39}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{39})R16.1\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$ unit cell with a dimension of 17.3 \AA{}. We propose that the network consists of Pt dislocation lines, and is caused by a stress-induced reconstruction of the top Pt(111) layer. The mosaic pattern is related to a two-dimensional array of Cr clusters containing only ten atoms.
Strong Arguments: Rejoinder to Thompson

(2001). Strong Arguments: Rejoinder to Thompson. The Journal of Experimental Education: Vol. 70, No. 1, pp. 94-95.
Determinants of Restaurant Systematic Risk: A Reexamination

ABSTRACT This study reexamines determinants of the systematic risk or beta of restaurant firms based on the financial data of 75 U.S. restaurant firms from 1996 through 1999. Our weighted least-squares regression analysis found that restaurant systematic risk correlated negatively with assets turnover but positively with quick ratio. The findings suggest that high efficiency in generating sales revenue helps lower the systematic risk, while excess liquidity tends to increase the risk.
Electrophysiological evidence of lateralized disturbances in children with learning disabilities.

Abstract This study used an electrophysiological measurement operation to investigate lateralized processing deficits associated with academic learning-disability subtypes. Fast frequency EEG activity in the 36–44 hertz (Hz) band was recorded from reading-disabled (RLD), arithmetic-disabled (ALD), and nondisabled control children engaged in verbal and nonverbal cognitive tasks. The control group, but neither LD group, exhibited a task-dependent shift in lateralization of 40 Hz EEG; the RLD subjects generated proportionately less left-hemisphere 40 Hz activity than control or ALD subjects during the verbal task; and the ALD subjects generated proportionately less right-hemisphere activity than control or RLD subjects during the nonverbal task. These results indicate that laterized processing deficits are associated with different types of disabilities, and provide external validation of learning-disability classifications based on academic performance patterns.
A long range full bandwidth Ethernet bridge

An Ethernet bridge has been built that has a range exceeding 39 km and a full bandwidth of 10 Mbaud. The bridge is transparent to all Ethernet packets and is suitable for distant system control, distant high-speed data collection, and all normal Ethernet use. The requirements for the bridge, the approach chosen, and the bridge performance are discussed. >
A retrospective analysis of renal carcinoma in the horse.

Background: Renal carcinoma is a rare tumor of horses. Hypothesis: Presenting complaints and clinical signs of this disease are vague and early diagnosis increases survival time. Animals: Data were collected from the medical records of 4 horses presented to Washington State University as well as the 23 previously published case reports of horses with renal carcinoma. Methods: Retrospective study. Results: Renal carcinoma affects horses of all ages with most cases observed in geldings and Thoroughbreds. The most common presenting complaints are nonspecific and usually do not occur until late in the course of the disease. Routine laboratory results generally are unremarkable with no evidence of renal dysfunction. Urine and peritoneal fluid analyses are consistently abnormal, but the changes usually are nonspecific. Rectal palpation often allows detection of an abnormal kidney or a mass in the area of the kidney. Renal ultrasound examination is the most rewarding imaging procedure, and when combined with renal biopsy, antemortem diagnosis can be achieved. Renal carcinoma is both locally invasive and metastatic, necessitating careful staging for metastasis using thoracic radiography and abdominal ultrasound examination. If the tumor is localized to 1 kidney, nephrectomy is the treatment of choice. No chemotherapy or radiation treatment for renal carcinoma has been reported in the horse. Median survival for this series of cases was 11 days (0 days–1 year). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Prognosis is poor to grave.
Synthesis and characterization of a water‐soluble affinity polymer for trypsin purification

A specific ligand bound polymer has been synthesized for the purpose of purification and stabilization of trypsin, an easily autodigestible enzyme. The affinity polymer was formed by copolymerizing N-acryloyl-m-aminobenzamidine, a strong trypsin inhibitor, and acrylamide in the absence of oxygen. Kinetic studies on the trypsin inhibition revealed that there was a strong binding between this enzyme and the polymer and the mechanism was of a competitive manner with an inhibition constant of 0.6 x 10(-3)M. Such an affinity polymer was also very effective in preventing trypsin from auto-digestion at 4 degrees C.Based on this finding and the principle of cross flow filtration, a new process has been developed for purification of trypsin from a solution containing chymotrypsin. The experimental data indicated that trypsin was bound to the polymer (MW > 10(5)) and remained in the retentate while unbound chymotrypsin was collected in the filtrate. This purification process has a capability of recovering 98% pure trypsin at 90% yield.
Stereo disparity computation using Gabor filters and feature selection techniques

This paper deals with the recovery of a scene from a pair of images, where each image is acquired from a different viewpoint. The central problem is the identification of corresponding points in all views. Basically two approaches have evolved: area-based methods, which employ local graylevel correlation techniques; and feature-based methods, which use preprocessing steps to extract local feature vectors and match these entities. Previous work has shown that feature-based methods have advantages both in terms of computational complexity, and accuracy. We extend these comparative studies, which had compared both philosophies, to a new type of feature extraction technique. This technique handles the correspondence problem by matching two sets of dense feature vectors, generated by GABOR filters. Gabor filters have been used previously for recognition of blob-type targets and texture classification. We show how the two techniques can be used as two independent sources to derive feature- vectors. Consequently, fusion of the two sources improves the accuracy of correspondence detection.
The usefulness of structured mid-term feedback as a catalyst for change in higher education classes:

Structured mid-term feedback allows teaching staff to evaluate their effectiveness from the student perspective while the term is in session. Why do lecturers participate in these programs? What do...
Optical implementation of SDF-based fringe-adjusted joint transform correlation for invariant pattern recognition

The fringe-adjusted joint transform correlator (JTC) technique has been found to yield substantially better correlation performance than alternate JTC techniques. Since the fringe-adjusted JTC (FJTC) is sensitive to scale and rotation variations, a synthetic discriminant function (SDF) based FJTC was proposed to realize scale and rotation invariant pattern recognition system via computer simulation. In this paper, optoelectronic implementation of the scale and rotation invariant pattern recognition using SDF based FJTC has been tested for both binary and gray level images. The experimental results obtained are in close agreement with the simulation results obtained earlier.
A localized approximation method for vortical flow

An approximation method of Moore for Kelvin–Helmholtz instability is formulated as a general method for two-dimensional, incompressible, inviscid flows generated by a vortex sheet. In this method the nonlocal equations describing evolution of the sheet are approximated by a system of (local) differential equations. These equations are useful for predicting singularity formation on the sheet and for analyzing the initial value problem before singularity formation. The general method is applied to a number of problems: Kelvin–Helmholtz instability for periodic vortex sheets, motion of an interface in Hele–Shaw flow, Rayleigh–Taylor instability for stratified flow, and Krasny’s desingularized vortex sheet equation. A new physically desingularized vortex sheet equation is proposed, which agrees with the finite thickness vortex layer equations in the localized approximation.
Preparation of Milk Fat Methyl Esters by Alcoholysis in an Essentially Nonalcoholic Solution

Abstract Treatment of 19 vol of 10% solution of milk fat in petroleum ether with 1 vol of either 2 n methanolic potassium hydroxide or sodium methoxide at room temperature results in the almost instantaneous formation of methyl esters from glyceride fatty acids. The solution may be analyzed by gas chromatography at once.
Sequence of Fruit Ripening in Bird-Dispersed Plants: Consistency Among Years

Heal, O. W. 1979. Decomposition and nutrient release in even-aged plantations. Pages 257-291 in E. D. Ford, D. Malcolm, and J. Atterson, editors. The Ecology of evenaged plantations. Institute of Terrestrial Ecology, Cam? bridge, England. Hendrickson, O. Q., L. Chatarpaul, and J. B. Robinson. 1985. Effects of two methods of timber harvest on microbial processes in forest soil. Soil Science Society of America Journal 49:739-746. Huhta, V. 1976. Effects of clear-cutting on numbers, bio? mass and community respiration of soil invertebrates. Annales Zoologici Fennici 13:63-80. Huhta, V., E. Karppinen, M. Nusminen, and A. Valpas. 1967. Effect of silvicultural practices upon arthropod, annelid and nematode populations in coniferous forest soil. Annales Zoologici Fennici 4:87-145. Kaushik, N. K., and H. B. N. Hynes. 1971. The role of dead leaves that fall into streams. Archiv fur Hydrobiologie 68: 465-515. Lautenschlager, K. P. 1976. Consumption of autumn-shed leaves by Gammarus and decomposition of leaf-derived fecal pellets. Thesis. University of Guelph, Guelph, On? tario, Canada. Lutz, H. J., and R. F. Chandler. 1946. Forest soils. John Wiley and Sons, New York, New York, USA. Luxton, M. 1982. General ecological influence of the soil fauna on decomposition and nutrient circulation. Oikos 39: 355-357. Marks, P. L., and F. H. Bormann. 1972. Revegetation fol? lowing forest cutting: mechanism for return to steady-state nutrient cycling. Science 176:914-915. Merriam, G., J. Wegner, and D. Caldwell. 1983. Invertebrate activity under snow in deciduous woods. Holarctic Ecology 6:89-94. Ovington, J. D. 1968. Some factors affecting nutrient dis? tribution within ecosystems. Pages 95-105 in F. E. Eckardt, editor. Functioning of terrestrial ecosystems at the primary production level. UNESCO, Liege, Belgium. Wallwork, J. A. 1970. Ecology of soil animals. McGrawHill, London, England. Witkamp, M. 1971. Soils as components of ecosystems. Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics 2:85-110. Witkamp, M., and B. S. Ausmus. 1976. Processes in decomposition and nutrient transfer in forest systems. Pages 375-396 in J. M. Anderson and A. Macfadyen, editors. The role of terrestrial and aquatic organisms in decomposition processes. Blackwell Scientific, Oxford, England.
Adolescent Suicide Risk Screening: The Effect of Communication About Type of Follow-Up on Adolescents' Screening Responses

This experimental study examined the effect of communication about type of screening follow-up (in-person follow-up vs. no in-person follow-up) on adolescents' responses to a self-report suicide risk screen. Participants were 245 adolescents (131 girls, 114 boys; ages 13-17; 80% White, 21.6% Black, 9.8% American Indian, 2.9% Asian) seeking medical emergency services. They were randomized to a screening follow-up condition. Screening measures assessed primary risk factors for suicidal behavior, including suicidal thoughts, depressive symptoms, alcohol use, and aggressive/delinquent behavior. There was no main effect of follow-up condition on adolescents' screening scores; however, significant interactions between follow-up condition and public assistance status were evident. Adolescents whose families received public assistance were less likely to report aggressive-delinquent behavior if assigned to in-person follow-up. Adolescents whose families did not receive public assistance reported significantly higher levels of suicidal ideation if assigned to in-person follow-up. Findings suggest that response biases impact some adolescents' responses to suicide risk screenings. Because national policy strongly recommends suicide risk screening in emergency settings, and because screening scores are used to make critical decisions regarding risk management and treatment recommendations, findings indicate the importance of improving the reliability and validity of suicide risk screening for adolescents.
Random walks based multi-image segmentation: Quasiconvexity results and GPU-based solutions

We recast the Cosegmentation problem using Random Walker (RW) segmentation as the core segmentation algorithm, rather than the traditional MRF approach adopted in the literature so far. Our formulation is similar to previous approaches in the sense that it also permits Cosegmentation constraints (which impose consistency between the extracted objects from ≥ 2 images) using a nonparametric model. However, several previous nonparametric cosegmentation methods have the serious limitation that they require adding one auxiliary node (or variable) for every pair of pixels that are similar (which effectively limits such methods to describing only those objects that have high entropy appearance models). In contrast, our proposed model completely eliminates this restrictive dependence — the resulting improvements are quite significant. Our model further allows an optimization scheme exploiting quasiconvexity for model-based segmentation with no dependence on the scale of the segmented foreground. Finally, we show that the optimization can be expressed in terms of linear algebra operations on sparse matrices which are easily mapped to GPU architecture. We provide a highly specialized CUDA library for Cosegmentation exploiting this special structure, and report experimental results showing these advantages.
Narrative structure and emotional references in parent–child reminiscing: associations with child gender, temperament, and the quality of parent–child interactions

The present research examined child gender, temperament, and the quality of parent–child interactions as predictors of narrative style and references to emotion during mother–child and father–child reminiscing. Although models predicting parents' narrative styles were non‐significant, results revealed significant interactions between parental hostility/intrusiveness during an interaction task and difficult child temperament. For mothers, greater hostility/intrusiveness was associated with fewer emotional references, but only when perceived difficult temperament was high. For fathers, greater hostility/intrusiveness was associated with more emotional references, but only when perceived difficult temperament was high. Additionally, greater paternal supportive guidance was associated with more references to positive emotions for fathers. No child gender effects were found to be significant.
Interventions To Control an Epidemic of Bloodstream Infections due to Mycobacterium

Abstract BACKGROUND: Rapid growing Mycobacterium species are commonly found in water environments but are rarely associated with bloodstream infections (BSIs). During February–June 2002, an outbreak of BSIs due to M. chelonae and M. fortuitum was documented. The objective of this study was to describe the outbreak investigation and the interventions implemented to control the epidemic. METHODS: Isolation of M. chelonae or M. fortuitum from one or more blood cultures in a patient with a central venous catheter (CVC) was the case definition. Five patients met the case definition. All patients had underlying malignancies. None of the patients have evidence of local CVC site infection. Prior to development of infection, all patients had the CVC accessed for flushing. No common medications or caregivers were identified. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis identified as identical three of four M. fortuitum strains. All environmental cultures were repeatedly negative. We hypothesized that the epidemic was likely related to the CVC flushing procedure and the following interventions were implemented: 1) do not open packages containing profiled saline syringes until immediately prior to use, 2) do not remove the cap and put the needleless device on the syringe until immediately prior to use. The success of control measures was determined by monitoring for recurrence. RESULTS: No additional cases of M. chelonae or M. fortuitum were identified in blood cultures after implementation of control measures. This study indicates that an epidemic of M. chelonae or M. fortuitum may result from intermittent, extrinsic contamination of sterile, preservative-free intravenous flush solutions.
Serial position and temporal cue effects in multiple sclerosis: Two subtypes of defective memory mechanisms

Neurocognitive studies of multiple sclerosis (MS) have identified a robust long-term memory deficit. We hypothesized that this is due in part to the limited representation and use of serial order information. MS patients and controls were studied with a supraspan list learning procedure with post-encoding retrieval and recognition trials. MS patients demonstrated post-encoding negative recency with normal recognition, and word order recall was impaired. These findings appear to be in part to difficulty using temporal order cues in long-term memory. Two dissociable memory deficits were identified, suggesting that there are at least two neurocognitive mechanisms underlying memory impairment in MS.
Radial keratotomy and glare effects on contrast sensitivity

After radial keratotomy (RK) to correct myopia, some patients complain of 'glare'. Effects of a glare source on contrast sensitivity were measured in fifteen patients after unilateral RK. With each eye, determinations were made of the contrast required for detection of steady gratings (spatial frequencies of 0.7 and 2.9 cycles/deg), and for detection of flicker (unpatterned field flickering at rates of 8, 16, and 32 Hz). Grating or flicker was presented on a centrally fixated 4 deg test target (34 cd/m2 mean luminance), surrounded by a diffuse glare source (1700 cd/m2 mean luminance). For each stimulus, contrast thresholds were determined with glare-source off and with glare-source on. 'Glare loss' was defined as the decrement in contrast sensitivity measured with the glare source on. Significant findings were: (1) Both eyes showed glare losses for detection of gratings and for detection of flicker; (2) Spectacle lenses increased glare losses both for gratings and for flicker; (3) The RK eye showed a larger glare loss for flicker than the unoperated eye, but a smaller glare-loss for gratings; (4) For both flicker and gratings, glare loss tended to be greater in the RK eye, compared to the unoperated eye, in subjects who had larger pupil diameters in the testing situation; (5) The psychophysical measurements obtained in this study were not significantly correlated either with a questionnaire index of glare complaints or with the score obtained with the Miller-Nadler GlareTester.
Statistics of Pi Mesons

By analyzing the decay of the ${\ensuremath{\tau}}^{+}$ meson, evidence for the boson character of ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$ mesons is obtained which is independent of the Pauli relation between spin and statistics. The usual Dalitz-Fabri expansion in angular momentum eigenfunctions is made, with the important difference that only antisymmetric states are allowed for the two like pions. The matrix elements and ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ distributions are calculated and the latter are compared with the data from 481 ${\ensuremath{\tau}}^{+}$ decay events by using ${\ensuremath{\chi}}^{2}$ to test the statistical significance of each hypothesis about the spin and parity of the final state. If parity is conserved in the decay, then no reasonable fit can be obtained for any spin less than 4. If parity is not conserved, then no reasonable fit can be obtained for any spin less than 3. Thus, if the $\ensuremath{\tau}$ spin is less than 3, we conclude that ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$ mesons obey Bose statistics. This result is independent of any assumption about invariance under time reversal.
Genistein and gut inflammation: role of nitric oxide.

Genistein, a principal soy isoflavone, has been identified as a protein kinase inhibitor that possesses immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of the study was to determine if genistein modified chronic ileitis in guinea pigs induced by the hapten trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS), and the activity index of cultured macrophages (RAW 264.7 cells) stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Genistein at low doses (0.1 mg/kg, s.c.) had mild anti-inflammatory effects in TNBS ileitis. Therapeutic benefit included a reduction in nitric oxide production, granulocyte infiltration and improved mucosal architecture. Genistein, at low doses, also appeared to attenuate immunohistochemical staining for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and nitrotyrosine. The beneficial effects of genistein were not apparent at doses above 0.1 mg/kg. We found that genistein also inhibited LPS-induced nitrite production by cultured macrophages and protected against LPS-induced necrosis despite its ability to cause apoptosis. These results indicate that genistein displayed mild anti-inflammatory properties which may, in part, involve an attenuation of nitric oxide release via inducible nitric oxide synthase, and the formation of peroxynitrite.
Fatigue crack growth analysis under sea-wave loading

Abstract This paper describes procedures for predicting the growth rate of fatigue cracks under sea-wave loading. The procedures start with an anticipated (or assumed) stress spectrum acting on a component of interest. Fatigue crack growth rates (FCGRs) are calculated using the fracture mechanics approach and an equivalent-stress-range concept. Experimental results have shown that use of the calculated equivalent-stress range heq, of the anticipated (or assumed) stress spectrum, coupled with constant-load-amplitude FCGR results, is adequate for predicting FCGRs under sea-wave loading. Results of assuming a fatigue exponent equal to 2 (root-mean square) or 3 (root-mean cube) are presented. The conservatism of approximating heq of wide-band random loading with the closed-form narrow-band solution is also discussed.
Mocrowave conductivity of superconducting Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O thin films in the 26.5 to 40.0 GHz frequency range

Abstract The conductivity σN in the normal state and the real and imaginary parts of the conductivity in the superconducting state σ∗=σ1−iσ2 of two Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O thin films (≈5000 A) are reported. The films were deposited on LaAlO3 and MgO substrate by co-evaporation and have a transition temperature Tc of 80 K. The microwave conductivities were obtained from power transmission data, using a two-fluid model. Values for σN of 4.1×104 and 6.3×104 S/m at room temperature were obtained for the films on LaAlO3 and MgO at 28.8 GHz, respectively. Below Tc, values of σ1=5.8×104 and σ=1.4×105 S/m for the film on LaAlO3 and σ1=7.3×104 and σ=7.7×104 S/m forthe film on MgO were obtained at 28.8 GHz. For the film on LaAlO3, σ2 decreased with increasing frequency, while for the one deposited on MgO, the behavior was completely opposite. The temperature dependence of the conductivity, both above and below Tc, was the same for both films. From σ2, values for the magnetic penetration depth λ or 5.6 and 7.6 μm at 75K were determined for the films on LaAlO3 and MgO, respectively.
The New Face of Cubans in the United States: Cultural Process and Generational Change in an Exile Community

ABSTRACT Cubans represent an exceptional group of immigrants, whose arrival in the United States occurred under a climate of hostility that resulted from the Cold War. This paper reviews the most relevant changes that have occurred during the past four decades in the Cuban community of South Florida, where Cubans formed their “ethnic enclave” in the U.S. Recent studies reveal that Cubans in South Florida are a very heterogeneous group. The different modes of acculturation and political orientation among Cubans in the U.S. may be explained by variables such a gender, race and age, and age and date of arrival in the U.S. As Cubans move into the second and third generation, they lose some of their uniqueness and begin to resemble the mainstream U.S. population. Yet, in some ways, they are also becoming more Hispanic.
Nutrition and Well-Being in the Late Nineteenth Century

Using the 1888 Cost of Living Survey, I estimate the demand for calories of American and British industrial workers. I find that the income and expenditure elasticities of calories for American households are significantly lower than the corresponding elasticities for British households, suggesting that American industrial workers were nutritionally better off than their British counterparts. I further find that the calorie elasticity differential between the two countries was driven by the higher wages enjoyed in the United States. Additional analysis reveals that the relative price of calories was approximately 20 percent greater in Great Britain than in the United States.
Systemic lupus erythematosus-associated lymphoproliferative disorder: Report of a case and discussion in light of the literature

A case of autoimmune disease-associated lymphadenopathy (ADAL) with histological, immunophenotypic, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in situ hybridization, and genotypic analyses is presented. The patient had a well-documented history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and was found at autopsy to have massive lymphadenopathy, thymic enlargement, pulmonary nodules, and polyclonal serum dysproteinemia. Histological examination revealed a polymorphous lymphoid infiltrate containing many plasma cells, rare immunoblasts, and a pronounced arborizing vasculature. No foci of necrosis were found and there was no evidence of lymphocyte depletion. The plasma cells were immunophenotypically polyclonal and no EBV mRNA (EBER-1) or gene rearrangements were identified. The unusual gross features, which resembled a malignant lymphoproliferative process, as well as the unusual histological features make this case a notable addition to the spectrum of atypical lymphoproliferative disorders associated with an autoimmune disorder. We conclude that although reminiscent of angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy with dysproteinemia (AILD), this case lacks the diagnostic features of AILD, and is, perhaps, best classified as an autoimmune disease-associated lymphadenopathy (ADAL).
Effects of adsorption and association with multiply charged counterions on the electrochemical responses of an electroactive polyelectrolyte

Abstract The preparation of two copolymers of vinylferrocene and 4-(vinylpyridine) containing a few per cent of ferrocene groups and having molar masses of 2.3 × 105 and 2.4 × 104 gmol−1 is described. The copolymers were dissolved in aqueous hydrochloric acid, where their electro-oxidation was examined by voltammetry at rotating disk electrodes. Severe adsorption on the electrode surface of the higher molar mass copolymer interfered with the evaluation of its diffusion coefficient, but values were obtained for the lower molar mass copolymer. The effects of pH, ionic strength and electrostatic binding of multiply charged counterions on the diffusion of both copolymers were examined. The uncertainties inherent in the use of electrochemical methods to evaluate apparent diffusion coefficients of polymers in mixtures with varying molar masses are pointed out.
Mechanical efficiency of kinematic heat engines

Abstract A general theory of the mechanical efficiency of kinematic heat engines is presented. Concepts are introduced that precisely relate mechanical efficiency to general characteristics of an engine. Theorems are proven that lead to a mathematically explicit limit to the mechanical efficiency of reciprocating engines. This limit is the mechanical analogue of the Carnot limit to thermal efficiency. The ideal Stirling engine plays a key role in this theory.
Evidence against a Physiologic Role for Acute Changes in CNS Insulin Action in the Rapid Regulation of Hepatic Glucose Production

This Perspective will discuss the physiologic relevance of data that suggest CNS insulin action is required for the rapid suppression of hepatic glucose production. It will also review data from experiments on the conscious dog, which show that although the canine brain can sense insulin and, thereby, regulate hepatic glucoregulatory enzyme expression, CNS insulin action is not essential for the rapid suppression of glucose production caused by the hormone. Insulin's direct hepatic effects are dominant, thus it appears that insulin's central effects are redundant in the acute regulation of hepatic glucose metabolism.
Macrophages and oxidized low density lipoproteins in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

Oxidized low density lipoprotein (LDL) may play an important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Recent evidence strongly suggests that oxidized LDL is present in atherosclerotic lesions in vivo: 1) LDL isolated from human and rabbit lesions (but not from normal intima) resembles oxidized LDL in its physical, chemical and immunological properties; 2) Oxidized LDL and/or oxidation specific lipid-protein adducts can be demonstrated in human and rabbit lesions by immunocytochemical techniques; 3) Human and rabbit serum contains autoantibodies against oxidized LDL and oxidation specific lipid-protein adducts; 4) atherosclerotic lesions contain IgG that recognizes oxidized LDL and 5) antioxidant therapy slows the development of atherosclerotic lesions in rabbits. Atherosclerosis in human and rabbit arteries may be linked to macrophage-induced oxidative modification of LDL mediated by 15-lipoxygenase which leads to an enhanced uptake of LDL in macrophages by way of the scavenger receptor(s). The identi...
Long‐distance exchange and Island colonization: The Lapita case

The Lapita cultural complex (3600–2500 BP), spanning the area from the Bismarck Archipelago to Samoa, is now widely regarded as representing the initial dispersal of Austronesian language speakers in the Pacific. Substantial archaeological evidence indicates that Lapita communities were linked in a complex network of long‐distance exchange. In addition to obsidian, chert, metavolcanic adzes, ceramics and other exotic artefacts, it is argued here that Lapita exchange also included prestige‐good shell valuables, similar to exchange valuables documented ethnographically throughout Melanesia. It is also proposed that the extremely rapid dispersal and colonization of the southwestern Pacific by Lapita peoples was closely related to this system of long‐distance exchange.
Foundations for the study of intercultural communication based on a third-culture building model

Abstract The author questions the adequacy of traditional and modern approaches to the study of intercultural communication, which have been based on consideration of culture as an organized orderly endstate. Emic conclusions of such studies were frequently the result of social scientists interpretations, commonly based on their scientific cultures value systems and expectations rather than resulting from the study of intercultural communication processes themselves. A number of scholars have questioned both the approach to and the results of such efforts. The author suggests instead the application of a post-modern chaotic conceptual model of culture, making use of a third-culture building explanatory concept, as more adequately suited to the exploration and understanding of the dynamic nature of intercultural communication processes. The resulting changes in culture are part of a never ending process of adaptation for the sake of human survival.
Fate of the Amino Acid in Glucose−Glycine Melanoidins Investigated by Solid-State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)

The fate of the amino acid in the model Maillard reaction between glucose and glycine in a 1:1 molar ratio has been investigated by applying advanced 13C and 15N solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques to 13C- and 15N-labeled melanoidins formed in dry and solution reactions. Quantitative 13C NMR shows that approximately 23% of carbon is from glycine; the approximately 2% loss compared to the 25% glycine C in the reactants is due to the COO moiety being liberated as CO2 (Strecker degradation). 13C J-modulation experiments on melanoidins made from doubly 13C-labeled glycine show that the C-C backbone bond of about two-thirds of the incorporated amino acid stays intact, and about half of all glycine is incorporated as N-CH2-COO without fragmentation. Degradation processes without CO2 loss affect about one-eighth of glycine in dry reaction and about one-fourth in solution. These results indicate that Strecker degradation affects about one-fourth (dry reaction) to one-third (in solution) of all glycine but is not the main pathway of glycine incorporation. Spectra of Strecker degradation products show that C2 of glycine reacts to form N-CH3, C-CHn-C, or aromatic units, but not pyrazines or pyridines. The gycine-C1 carbon incorporated into the melanoidins remains>or=90% part of COO moieties; approximately 5% of amides have also been detected. The C2-N bond stays intact for approximately 70% of the incorporated glycine. The 15N spectra show many peaks, over a 200 ppm range, documenting a multitude of different chemical environments of nitrogen, but no enamines or imines. The majority (>78%) of nitrogen, in particular most pyrrolic N, is not protonated. Because N-H predominates in amino acids and proteins, nonprotonated nitrogen may be a characteristic marker of Maillard reaction products.
The assessment of children's physical activity: a comparison of methods.

The authors assessed the convergent validity and the sources of error in an electronic single-plane accelerometer (i.e., Caltrac Personal Activity Computer (Hemokinetics, Inc., Vienna, VA). The device was validated against observed all-day physical activity levels of children in their natural environment. Thirty pre-school children were observed in non-structured activity for periods of approximately 9 h while wearing the accelerometer. The results revealed moderately high but variable Spearman rank-order correlations between hourly readings of the accelerometer and the observational system (range of correlations = 0.62 to 0.95). An all-day accelerometer reading significantly correlated with the observational instrument (rho = 0.54). A step-wise regression analysis revealed that the best behavioral predictor of the all-day accelerometer reading was the observed behavior of walking, explaining 32% of the total variance. Older vs younger children (i.e., greater than 32.5 months), females vs males, and overweight (i.e., 75 percentile or greater) vs normal weight children tended to show higher correlations between direct observation and accelerometer readings. Implications of these findings and the utilization of the accelerometer in epidemiologic research are discussed.
A proposed scale for nitrogen chemical shifts

Abstract References and scales for expressing nitrogen chemical shifts are reviewed and criteria for desirable reference compounds discussed. The possible utility of tetramethylammonium and tetraethylammonium ions as internal references are examined. It is suggested that both 14 N and 15 N chemical shifts be expressed relative to an internal reference of N(CH 3 ) 4 + I − , with positive values in the direction of increasing frequency.
Hepatitis C virus vaccines in the era of new direct-acting antivirals

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major global health problem as it has a high propensity for establishing chronicity. Chronic HCV carriers are at risk of developing severe liver disease including fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. While treatment has considerably improved over the years, therapy is still only partially effective, and is plagued by side effects, which contribute to treatment failure and is expensive to manage. The drug development pipeline contains several compounds that hold promise to achieve the goal of a short and more tolerable therapy, and are also likely to improve treatment response rates. It remains to be seen, however, how potent antiviral drug cocktails will affect the hepatitis C burden worldwide. In resource-poor environments, considerable costs, inadequate infrastructure for medical supervision and distribution may diminish the impact of future therapies. Consequently, development of novel therapeutic and prophylactic strategies is imperative to contain HCV infection...
Accelerating radiation dose calculation: A multi-FPGA solution

Remarkable progress has been made in the past few decades in various aspects of radiation therapy (RT). However, some of these promising technologies, such as image-guided online replanning and arc therapy, rely heavily on the availability of fast dose calculation. In this article, based on a popular dose calculation algorithm, the Collapsed-Cone Convolution/Superposition (CCCS) algorithm, we present a multi-FPGA accelerator to speed up radiation dose calculation. Our performance-driven design strategy yields a fully pipelined architecture, which includes a resource-economic raytracing engine and high-performance energy deposition pipeline. An evaluation based on a set of clinical treatment planning cases confirms that our FPGA design almost fully utilizes the available external memory bandwidth and achieves close to the best possible performance for the CCCS algorithm while using less resource. Compared with an existing FPGA design which aimed to accelerate the identical algorithm, the proposed design achieved 1.9X speedup by providing better memory bandwidth utilization (81.7p v.s. 43p of the available external memory bandwidth), higher working frequency (90MHz v.s. 70MHz) and less logic resource usage (25K v.s. 55K logic cells). Furthermore, it obtains a speedup of 20X over a commercial multithreaded software on a quad-core system and 15X performance improvement over closely related results. In terms of accuracy, the measured less than 1p statistical fluctuation indicates that our solution is practical in real medical scenarios.
Trends and patterns in section 404 permitting requiring compensatory mitigation in Oregon and Washington, USA

The effects of permitting decisions made under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act for which compensatory mitigation was required were examined. Information was compiled on permits issued in Oregon (January 1977–January 1987) and Washington (1980–1986). Data on the type of project permitted, wetland impacted, and mitigation project were collected and analyzed. The records of the Portland and Seattle District Offices of the US Army Corps of Engineers and of Environmental Protection Agency Region X were the primary sources of information.
Propranolol prevents hemodynamic and humoral events after abrupt withdrawal of nitroprusside

Hemodynamic and humoral events after intraoperative discontinuation of nitroprusside were studied in subjects without and with pretreatment with intravenous propranolol, 0.1 mg · kg−1 Nitroprusside-induced hypotension was associated with increases in heart rate, cardiac output, plasma renin activity (PRA), and catecholamine levels; these changes were prevented by propranolol. In subjects pretreated with propranolol, dose requirements of nitroprusside for hypotension of comparable degree and duration decreased 40%. On discontinuation of nitroprusside, mean systemic pressure rose to 100.2 mm Hg—a level higher than prehypotension and awake values—because of increased systemic vascular resistance. Hemodynamic events were associated with persistent elevations of PRA and catecholamine levels. These rebound changes were maximal 15 min after nitroprusside withdrawal and returned to control levels 30 to 60 min later. Pretreatment with propranolol completely prevented rebound hemodynamic events after nitroprusside. Persistent elevations of PRA and catecholamine levels after nitroprusside action subsided were responsible for the effects of withdrawal. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1984) 36, 470–477; doi:10.1038/clpt.1984.206
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva.

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is an extremely rare and disabling genetic disorder of connective tissue. The condition is characterized by congenital malformation of the great toes and by progressive heterotopic ossification of the tendons, ligaments, fasciae, and striated muscles. Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva occurs sporadically and is transmitted as a dominant trait with variable expression and complete penetrance. Reproductive fitness is low. There are fewer than 150 known patients with the disorder in the United States. A point prevalence of one affected patient in every 2 million of population has been observed. There is no sexual, racial, or ethnic predilection. The disease presents in early life; its course is unavoidably progressive. Most patients are confined to a wheelchair by the third decade of life and often succumb to pulmonary complications in the 5th/6th decade of life. At present there is no effective prevention or treatment. The recent discovery of overproduction of bone morphogenetic protein-4 in lesional cells and lymphocytic cells of affected patients provides a clue to both the underlying pathophysiology and potential therapy. The FOP gene has recently been mapped to human chromosome 4 q 27–31.