cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
From Transplants to Gene Therapy for Parkinson's Disease

Abstract The efficacy of fetal tissue transplants in the treatment of Parkinson's disease has been demonstrated preliminarily. However, results are short term, and have not been confirmed in prospective randomized controlled trials. Furthermore, although patients are improved, they remain severely disabled. There are several problems with the widespread clinical use of fetal tissue that make the use of molecular biological strategies more compelling. Several conceptual problems are shared by both fetal and molecular biological neuroreconstruction strategies. It is necessary to characterize the “dose” of the transplanted therapeutic agent as well as its volume of distribution. The symptoms that may improve following neuronal reconstruction are likely to be directly related to the somatotopic localization of the transplants; the duration of benefit should be long enough to be relevant in a chronic disease such as Parkinson's disease. Operative therapies that utilize gene therapy or other reconstructive neurosurgical techniques are likely to require novel clinical trial designs to demonstrate their efficacy.
Toroidal resonators with small frequency mismatch for rate integrating gyroscopes

This paper reports an order of magnitude reduction in frequency mismatch (ΔF) in polycrystalline diamond half-toroid resonators under development for use as microscale rate-integrating gyroscopes. The reduction in ΔF was achieved by eliminating the lip at the perimeter of the resonator. Measurements of resonance decay time as a function of frequency, temperature, and pressure are also reported.
Population sequencing using short reads: HIV as a case study.

Despite many drawbacks, traditional sequencing technologies have proven to be invaluable in modern medical research, even when the targeted genomes are highly variable. While it is often known in such cases that multiple slightly different sequences are present in the analyzed sample in concentrations that vary dramatically, the traditional techniques typically allow only the most dominant strain to be extracted from a single chromatogram. These limitations made some research directions rather difficult to pursue. For example, the analysis of HIV evolution (including the emergence of drug resistance) in a single patient is expected to benefit from a comprehensive catalog of the patient’s HIV population. In this paper, we show how the new generation of sequencing technologies, based on high throughput of short reads, can be used to link site variants and reconstruct multiple full strains of the targeted gene, including those of low concentration in the sample. Our algorithm is based on a generative model of the sequencing process, and uses a tailored probabilistic inference and learning procedure to fit the model to the obtained reads.
Initial responses to ventilation of premature lambs exposed to intra-amniotic endotoxin 4 days before delivery.

Preterm delivery is frequently preceded by chorioamnionitis, resulting in exposure of the fetal lung to inflammation. We hypothesized that ventilation of the antenatally inflamed lung would result ...
On Transience and Recurrence in Irreducible Finite-State Stochastic Systems

Long-run stochastic stability is a precondition for applying steady-state simulation output analysis methods to a discrete-event stochastic system, and is of interest in its own right. We focus on systems whose underlying stochastic process can be represented as a Generalized Semi-Markov Process (GSMP); a wide variety of stochastic systems fall within this framework. A fundamental stability requirement for an irreducible GSMP is that the states be “recurrent” in that the GSMP visits each state infinitely often with probability 1. We study recurrence properties of irreducible GSMPs with finite state space. Our focus is on the “clocks” that govern the occurrence of events, and we consider GSMPs in which zero, one, or at least two simultaneously active events can have clock-setting distributions that are “heavy tailed” in the sense that they have infinite mean. We establish positive recurrence, null recurrence, and, perhaps surprisingly, possible transience of states for these respective regimes. The transience result stands in strong contrast to Markovian or semi-Markovian GSMPs, where irreducibility and finiteness of the state space guarantee positive recurrence.
Experiments in mixed integer linear programming in a manufacturing system

Abstract This paper reports on a Manufacturing System and two Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) applications concurrent to it. The System is made up of four integrated modules designed to address problems of Strategic, Tactical and Operational Planning. The MIP applications concern problems of plant site selection and production planning. Optimization is done via the IBM's MPSX/370 Mathematical Programming Software.
Distribution of Seafloor Shallow Gas in the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico

Pockets of free gas at shallow depths in the seafloor are known to be potential hazards to development of offshore oil and gas resources. Identification of such pockets is one goal of hazard surveys. Data from several such surveys in the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico have been used to map and statistically describe the occurrence of gas in the continental shelf sediments of this region. Sizes, locations and depth of occurrence of the gas pockets are described for this region and are compared with other regions including offshore Southern California. Knowledge of the statistics of shallow gas distribution and correlations is an important element of hazards definition in planning for development of prospects. Techniques and scope of hazard surveys in area of specific interest can be enhanced by such knowledge.
Wear of AISI 4340 steel under boundary lubrication

Abstract Wear tests were conducted using AISI 4340 steel sliding on AISI 01 tool steel under boundary lubrication conditions. The AISI 4340 steel was heat treated to obtain different microstructures and hardness levels. The results indicated that the wear behavior depends on the heat treatment procedure. It was found that hardness alone cannot be used as a measure of wear and that the microstructure and other mechanical properties should also be used. Chemical reaction products containing phosphorus, sulfur and zinc were found on the wear surfaces lubricated with a fully formulated light oil containing zinc dithiophosphates. The chemically reacted film was nonuniform and consisted of patches 1–1500 μm in size. The larger patches were formed on the surface of steel with a pearlite-ferrite microstructure and resulted in a high wear rate. In contrast, the small patches and the thin blue and brown films were formed on the wear surface of tempered martensite steel and produced low wear rates.
Letter to the Editor---Comments Suggested by Schelling's Paper

Dr Schelling's paper Schelling, T. C. 1961. Dispersal, deterrence, and damage. Oper. Res.9 363--370. admirably serves his purpose in calling attention to two important issues, the specific one of SAC bomber dispersal and the more general one of strategic alternatives to sheer blind destructiveness in a possible future U.S.-U.S.S.R. war.
Measurement standards for the prevertebral region in the lateral soft-tissue radiograph of the neck

One hundred thirty-one lateral soft-tissue radiographs of the neck, taken over a 6-month period, were reviewed. Eighty-six radiographs were normal. The mean prevertebral soft-tissue thickness in the posterior-anterior dimension for each normal radiograph was measured. The mean thickness in the retropharyngeal region ranged from 6.2 mm in the infant to 3.7 mm in the adult, while the mean thickness in the retrotracheal region ranged from 9.2 mm in the preschool group to 12.1 mm in the adult.
Mode I equivalent state of crack-like defects in multiaxial stress fields

The novel concept of equivalent state randomly oriented flaws developed from the generalized fracture toughness theory [1] is presented. Based on this concept, planar defects located in multiaxial stress field regions, characterized by modes I, II, and III stress intensity factor combinations, are distinguished by a mode I equivalent state stress intensity factor % MathType!MTEF!2!1!+-% feaafiart1ev1aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbuLwBLn% hiov2DGi1BTfMBaeXatLxBI9gBaerbd9wDYLwzYbItLDharqqtubsr% 4rNCHbGeaGak0dh9WrFfpC0xh9vqqj-hEeeu0xXdbba9frFj0-OqFf% ea0dXdd9vqaq-JfrVkFHe9pgea0dXdar-Jb9hs0dXdbPYxe9vr0-vr% 0-vqpWqaaeaabiGaaiaacaqabeaadaqaaqaaaOqaaiqadUeagaqeaa% aa!3846!\[\bar K\]1 of identical function. Accordingly, the complex mode fracture criterion is exactly replaced by the conventional mode I criterion % MathType!MTEF!2!1!+-% feaafiart1ev1aaatCvAUfeBSjuyZL2yd9gzLbvyNv2CaerbuLwBLn% hiov2DGi1BTfMBaeXatLxBI9gBaerbd9wDYLwzYbItLDharqqtubsr% 4rNCHbGeaGak0dh9WrFfpC0xh9vqqj-hEeeu0xXdbba9frFj0-OqFf% ea0dXdd9vqaq-JfrVkFHe9pgea0dXdar-Jb9hs0dXdbPYxe9vr0-vr% 0-vqpWqaaeaabiGaaiaacaqabeaadaqaaqaaaOqaaiqadUeagaqeaa% aa!3846!\[\bar K\]1 ⩾ K1C. It is demonstrated that this criterion is mathematically equivalent to other more complex generalized fracture criteria [2,4,5], i.e., it predicts the same critical conditions.
Effect of uniaxial stresses on silica glass structure investigated by IR spectroscopy

Abstract To understand the structural change of silica glass caused by an applied uniaxial stress, the IR reflection peak shift of the silica structural band of a silica glass fiber due to a bending stress was measured. The peak shift is due to a change in the Si–O–Si bond angle. Past measurements by Raman spectroscopy showed that the structural band at ≈1050 cm −1 shifted to a lower wavenumber under tensile stress indicating that the Si–O–Si bond angle decreases under such a stress, while the opposite is expected from the volume change of silica glass by stress. We found that the observed anomaly is an artifact due to the non-uniform structure of the silica glass fiber near the surface layer and once the non-uniform layer was removed, the IR peak shifted in a normal manner and the Si–O–Si bond angle increased under tensile stress.
The Role of Endoscopically Placed Feeding or Decompression Tubes

In the area of palliative care, the application of percutaneous endoscopically placed polyurethane or silicone tubes into the stomach, proximal small bowel, or colon has expanded exponentially over the past 25 years since the original introduction of the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) [1]. The patient populations who have undergone the greatest number of applications of such tubes include those patients who have progressive neurologic disorders (such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS], Parkinson’s disease, and dementia), stroke, and advanced malignancy. The percutaneously placed tubes are used most commonly to establish enteral access through which to provide specialized nutritional support and to enable decompression of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract above an area of malignant obstruction or altered motility. The tubes are also used as an adjunctive measure to facilitate other procedures (such as placement of an esophageal stent) or to create an externalized extraintestinal bypass around an obstructed segment of the GI tract. The use of such tubes in palliative care, however, is controversial. The literature guiding the clinician is problematic. Few prospective randomized trials exist. Selection bias occurs, and results of studies are difficult to interpret because of confounding variables and underlying comorbidities. In palliative care, end-of-life decision making must take into account basic ethical principles as well as the cultural, personal, and religious beliefs that the patient brings to the situation. As a result of these factors, decisions are reduced to an honest if imperfect discussion of the potential harm and benefit of PEGs in a particular setting, taking into account the values of each patient and his or her family.
Symmetric splitting in the general theory of stable models

Splitting a logic program allows us to reduce the task of computing its stable models to similar tasks for smaller programs. This idea is extended here to the general theory of stable models that replaces traditional logic programs by arbitrary first-order sentences and distinguishes between intensional and extensional predicates. We discuss two kinds of splitting: a set of intensional predicates can be split into subsets, and a formula can be split into its conjunctive terms.
Comparing methods for identifying patients with heart failure using electronic data sources

Background Accurately indentifying heart failure (HF) patients from administrative claims data is useful for both research and quality of care efforts. Yet, there are few comparisons of the various claims data criteria (also known as claims signatures) for identifying HF patients. We compared various HF claim signatures to assess their relative accuracy.
Metabolic Process Engineering for Biochemicals and Biofuels Production

The trends towards using green chemical and energy are increasing due to the growing demand for non-fossil bio-products, the environmental concern for using fossil fuel, and the continuously increasing cost of crude oils. The total annual markets of biofuels and biochemicals are estimated to exceed $1 trillion[1]. Microbial fermentation has been widely used to produce organic biochemicals and biofuels, including citric acid, lactic acid, butyric acid, propionic acid, amino acids, ethanol, propanol, butanol, etc. The rapidly growing biotechnology market requires an efficient bioprocess platform, including both the production cell and the process, for biochemicals and biofuels production. Metabolic engineering (ME) is often used to develop high-producing cells needed for the process. However, ME requires genetically modifying the cell, which can be difficult to do or to achieve the expected outcome, especially for less studied microorganisms. Metabolic process engineering (MPE) is a novel and advanced technology that alters or manipulates metabolic pathway to produce the interested metabolites by rationally controlling or manipulating bio-production process parameters. The goal of MPE is to achieve a high-productivity, high-quality, robust and scalable process through dynamic monitoring and investigating the interactions between cellular metabolism and process parameters. Different from the well-known traditional fermentation process development, MPE targets to engineer the bio-production process by controlling the cell physiology and metabolic responses to changes in fermentation process parameters and incorporating the interplay between cell and process into the rational process design. In this article, we focus on the application of MPE to improve biochemicals and biofuels production via precise bioreactor controllers, in situ sensors, and omics technologies.
Preparation of Nuclear Spin Singlet States Using Spin-Lock Induced Crossing

We introduce a broadly applicable technique to create nuclear spin singlet states in organic molecules and other many-atom systems. We employ a novel pulse sequence to produce a spin-lock induced crossing (SLIC) of the spin singlet and triplet energy levels, which enables triplet-singlet polarization transfer and singlet-state preparation. We demonstrate the utility of the SLIC method by producing a long-lived nuclear spin singlet state on two strongly coupled proton pairs in the tripeptide molecule phenylalanine-glycine-glycine dissolved in D(2)O and by using SLIC to measure the J couplings, chemical shift differences, and singlet lifetimes of the proton pairs. We show that SLIC is more efficient at creating nearly equivalent nuclear spin singlet states than previous pulse sequence techniques, especially when triplet-singlet polarization transfer occurs on the same time scale as spin-lattice relaxation.
A Three-Dimensional Conceptual Model of Corporate Performance

Offered here is a conceptual model that comprehensively describes essential aspects of corporate social performance. The three aspects of the model address major questions of concern to academics and managers alike: (1) What is included in corporate social responsibility? (2) What are the social issues the organization must address? and (3) What is the organization's philosophy or mode of social responsiveness?
Queueing up for enzymatic processing: correlated signaling through coupled degradation

High-throughput technologies have led to the generation of complex wiring diagrams as a postsequencing paradigm for depicting the interactions between vast and diverse cellular species. While these diagrams are useful for analyzing biological systems on a large scale, a detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the observed network connections is critical for the further development of systems and synthetic biology. Here, we use queueing theory to investigate how ‘waiting lines’ can lead to correlations between protein ‘customers’ that are coupled solely through a downstream set of enzymatic ‘servers’. Using the E. coli ClpXP degradation machine as a model processing system, we observe significant cross-talk between two networks that are indirectly coupled through a common set of processors. We further illustrate the implications of enzymatic queueing using a synthetic biology application, in which two independent synthetic networks demonstrate synchronized behavior when common ClpXP machinery is overburdened. Our results demonstrate that such post-translational processes can lead to dynamic connections in cellular networks and may provide a mechanistic understanding of existing but currently inexplicable links.
Enhanced Extracellular Growth of Staphylococcus aureus in the Presence of Selected Linear Peptide Fragments of Human Interleukin (IL)—1β and IL-1 Receptor Antagonist

Replication of Staphylococcus aureus is significantly enhanced in the presence of recombinant interleukin (IL)‐1b. In this study, specific binding of IL-1b to the surface of S. aureus significantly increased growth of S. aureus in the presence of IL-1b and IL-1ra in a concentration-dependent manner. Although IL-1ra enhanced the growth of S. aureus, there was a significant reduction in IL-1b‐mediated growth enhancement of S. aureus when 25-fold excess amounts of IL-1ra (in comparison with the IL-1b concentration) were present in the culture medium. Thus, IL-1b may influence the growth of S. aureus through a receptor-mediated event. By using 5 linear peptides spanning limited regions of IL-1b, the growth-promoting regions were localized to amino acid residues 118‐147 and 208‐240. These results build on the newly evolved concept of direct interactions between the soluble mediators of inflammation and infectious agents.
Robert W. Zwanzig: Formulated nonequilibrium statistical mechanics

Robert (“Bob”) Zwanzig died on May 15 this year at the age of 86. He had been a member of the National Academy of Sciences since 1972. He is survived by Frances, his wife of 60 years, a daughter, Elizabeth Bennett, and a son, Carl. Frances writes that Bob “was a baker of bread and of made-from-scratch pizza, a maker of dry martinis and hearty soups, an ice dancer, and a walker along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal.” We remember Bob as the theorist who inspired us, sometimes criticized us, and more than anyone else, explained the foundations of nonequilibrium statistical mechanics.
Timing of ripening initiation in grape berries and its relationship to seed content and pericarp auxin levels

Individual berries in a grape (Vitis vinifera L.) cluster enter the ripening phase at different times leading to an asynchronous cluster in terms of ripening. The factors causing this variable ripening initiation among berries are not known. Because the influence via hormonal communication of the seed on fruit set and growth is well known across fruit species, differences in berry seed content and resultant quantitative or qualitative differences in the hormone signals to the pericarp likely influence the relative timing of ripening initiation among berries of the cluster. At the time of the initiation of cluster ripening (veraison), underripe green berries have higher seed content compared to the riper berries and there is a negative correlation between the seed weight-to-berry weight ratio (SB) and the sugar level in berries of a cluster. Auxin levels in seeds relative to the pericarp tissues are two to 12 times higher at pre-ripening stages. The pericarp of berries with high-SB had higher auxin and lower abscisic acid (ABA) levels compared to those with low-SB from two weeks before veraison. In the preveraison cluster, the expression of auxin-response factor genes was significantly higher in the pericarp of high-SB berries and remained higher until veraison compared to low-SB berries. The expression level of auxin-biosynthetic genes in the pericarp was the same between both berry groups based upon similar expression activity of YUC genes that are rate-limiting factors in auxin biosynthesis. On the other hand, in low-SB berries, the expression of ABA-biosynthetic and ABA-inducible NCED and MYB genes was higher even two weeks before veraison. Differences in the relative seed content among berries plays a major role in the timing of ripening initiation. Towards the end of berry maturation phase, low and high levels of auxin are observed in the pericarp of low- and high-SB berries, respectively. This results in higher auxin-signaling activity that lasts longer in the pericarp of high-SB berries. In contrast, in low-SB berries, concomitant with an earlier decrease of auxin level, the features of ripening initiation, such as increases in ABA and sugar accumulation begin earlier.
Innovation as energy policy for the world [Policy Perspectives]

Obama's energy policies need to start domestically but aspire to global influence. The basic philosophy should be to rely on markets whenever they work well, but to step in aggressively when market failures appear. This means making the costs of global warming, air pollution, and energy security visible to energy consumers. It means seeking ways to recirculate more dollars domestically in order to reduce trade deficits. It means encouraging a greater diversity of institutional arrangements in energy industries, perhaps encouraging more community energy cooperatives alongside the investor-owned utilities. It means encouraging regional diversity that takes advantage of local resources, thus producing bioenergy from solid waste in urbanized New Jersey and from switchgrass in rural Kansas. Obama's policies should privilege consumer interests over producer interests when those interests conflict, because everyone is a consumer. Obama should aggressively pursue innovations in the energy sector because they can help sidestep painful tradeoffs among objectives.
Footing it, or why I walk

Often, before we, as researchers, set foot in the field, we have planned out in detail the ways in which we will go about our work – theoretically informed research methods have been carefully chosen, and plans for entry into the field are well made. But what about how we actually move in the field? Certainly, the logistics of arriving at our chosen site are seen to, but how can our daily mode of transportation – be it our feet, a bicycle, taxi or Land Rover – impact our research? Because sometimes footing it is the only option, I here explore the politics of walking in the field.
Creating New Corporate Memories to Reinvent IBM

The dominating role of corporate memory/corporate culture in instituting/impeding dramatic changes is highlighted in the first‐person narrative of Louis V. Gerstner, Jr. of his tenure as IBM CEO (1993‐2002). Gerstner, who had never worked in the computer business, was brought in to rescue IBM which had lost $16 billion in three years, and half its share value in eight years in which 175,000 employees lost their jobs. “I came to see in my time at IBM that culture is not just one aspect of the game‐it is the game... [When the original environment institutionalized in the corporate culture] shifts, it becomes an enormous impediment to the institution’s ability to adapt.” To overcome the impediment, Gerstner had to employ Draconian Measures to replace/rebuild the institutional memory: [1] organizationally by ripping power out of the entrenched bureaucracy, and giving it to 12 newly‐constituted customer‐centered industries, [2] operationally by tying Pay and Promotion to IBM stock performance (instead of indiv...
Medical Management of Surgical Inflammatory Bowel Disease? Current Concepts and Future Possibilities

Successful long-term management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) requires communication and interaction between medical physicians and surgeons. With the advent of biologic therapies in IBD, our definition of “medical” and “surgical” IBD has been refined. This article will discuss potential roles of biologic therapies in three clinically important subgroups of IBD considered to be the primary domain of the surgeon: fistulizing Crohn’s disease (CD), stricturing CD, and severe ulcerative colitis (UC). Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors and other biologics in clinical trials are likely to have an increasingly important role in fistulizing CD and severe UC. Furthermore, the optimal clinical application of new biologics necessitates that surgeons are closely involved in patient management. Therefore, the introduction and development of biologic therapies in IBD present new opportunities to avoid surgery in select patients, but close interactions between the gastroenterologist and the surgeon remain essential.
A low voltage operational transconductance amplifier using common mode feedforward for high frequency switched capacitor circuits

In this paper, a topology for high frequency low voltage operational transconductance amplifiers (OTAs) is reported. This topology makes use of a pseudo-differential input stage and common mode feedforward. This technique was originally proposed for the realization of high frequency continuous time filters. This work shows how the technique can be modified for two stage OTAs used in switched capacitor filters. Low voltage amplifiers with high output swings, common-mode rejection ratios and power supply rejection ratios can be designed using this technique. The simulated performance of such an OTA gives a DC gain of 75 dB, unity gain frequency of 562 MHz and a low frequency common mode rejection ratio of 90 dB without mismatch. Simulation results for a 10 MHz center frequency bandpass filter making use of this technique are presented. The OTAs in the filter operate on a 1.8 V supply. The filter has been fabricated in a 0.5 /spl mu/m N-Well CMOS process. Preliminary experimental results indicate proper operation of the OTAs.
Life cycle design: AT&T demonstration project

Summary form only given. The life cycle design framework developed at the University of Michigan guides the integration of environmental requirements into the manufacturing, use, and end-of-life states of a product system. Elements of the life cycle design framework were applied in AT&T's product realization process for a business phone. This demonstration project tested the use of a multicriteria requirements matrix which includes environmental, performance, cost, cultural, and legal dimensions. Critical requirements that shape the design of the business phone were identified and life cycle design strategies used to resolve conflicts between these requirements are highlighted in this paper. In addition, challenges in implementing life cycle design such as insufficient environmental data and lack of consensus on environmental assessment are discussed. >
Third-order bounds on the elastic moduli of metal-matrix composites

Accurate prediction of the elastic moduli of a composite material consisting of particles in a continuous matrix is difficult for several reasons. Even for the simplest situation where all particles are spheres of the same size, the randomness of the spatial distribution of the particles is not easy to include in an exact calculation. Further difficulties arise when other realistic effects, such as clustering of particles, irregular particle shape, and nonuniform particle sizes, occur. It is the purpose of this communication to show that for the technologically important metal-matrix composites (A1/SiCp), sufficiently accurate results can be obtained over the useful composition range by considering third-order bounds on the bulk and shear moduli, rl-4] Typically, these bounds differ by only a few percent. Because they contain information on the phase geometry, they are nearly an order of magnitude better than the well-known Hashin-Shtrikman bounds, tSJ which depend only on volume fraction. Torquato and co-workers [~-4] have evaluated the thirdorder bounds and have tabulated results for the threepoint parameters characterizing the particle distribution, which are necessary for the calculation of the moduli. Fortunately, they simplified the procedure so that the bounds are easy to compute. In the present work, it is shown that by averaging the upper and lower bounds for the bulk modulus K, as well as for the shear modulus G, one can obtain an estimate of Young's modulus E that is in error by less than 4 pct for volume fractions up to 50 pct. Such accuracy is well within the current experimental variability. For completeness, the mathematical expressions for the bounds on K and G are given below in terms of the moduli of the matrix (phase 1) and the particles (phase 2) and their volume fractions, ~b~ and ~b2:
An experimental investigation of the effect of strain on the electrical conductivity of a shape memory polymer

Abstract A thermally triggered shape memory polymer (SMP) was prepared by blending electrically conductive carbon black (CB) into the resin prior to curing. The CB filled composite can then be activated through resistive heating. With the aim of using such SMPs in reconfigurable structures and/or actuators, the effect of strain on the conductive nature of the SMP composite was investigated. The study has specifically focused on changes to conductivity in, i) the transverse direction during tensile elongation to assess the impact of the Poisson effect, and ii) in samples deformed in compression. The dynamic response characteristics of the electrically activated SMP were also tested to assess the feasibility of using the composite in tunable vibration damping applications. Findings have shown that the pattern of changes in the transverse conductivity, which is marked by an increase-decrease-increase sequence, resembles that seen in the axial direction. SEM imaging of the samples was performed along the axial and transverse axes of deformation and shows no anisotropy in the CB filler distribution. To demonstrate potential uses of a conductive SMP in the sub- T g temperature range, a discussion of a vibration damping application has been included.
Propagation and detection distortions of four-wave mixing signals: application to 2D spectroscopy

We present a computationally efficient three dimensional Fourier transform algorithm for four-wave mixing signal calculation in optically dense samples of arbitrary nonlinear response. Memory effects and lineshape distortion on integrated and bidimensional signals are demonstrated.
A cross-case analysis of top-25 U.S. law schools in the U.S. news & world report rankings from 1998 - 2012

For law schools, U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings dominate discussion on how law schools compare to one another. In addition to focusing rivalry, U.S. News’ ranking criteria has a powerful influence over the management of U.S. legal education. Also, American Bar Association (ABA) accreditation standards require law schools to make expensive investments that reinforce uniformity and increase costs. As a consequence, the prevailing practices of elite, or top-25, law schools are largely undifferentiated and conformity is the norm. At the same time, elite law schools are aggressively seeking to improve their position in the existing hierarchy by displacing one or more higher ranked law schools. The upward spiraling effect of schools pursuing identical strategies has resulted in strategic convergence, eliminating any meaningful distinction between close competitors. However, law schools ranked in the top-25 by U.S. News have changed over time.In this quantitative method study, I will focus on four institutions that have moved significantly in the U.S. News top-25 rankings. I will determine what key factors were at play in their movement since 1998 and why these changes have occurred. Finally, my research design contemplates studying two private schools and two public schools. In doing so, I will examine whether public and private schools are facing similar competitive challenges or whether distinctions appear in this cross-band comparison of law schools.
On the flash temperature of gear contacts under the tribo-dynamic condition

Abstract This study investigates the flash temperature rise of spur gear contacts under the tribo-dynamic condition. A transverse–torsional discrete gear dynamics model is coupled with a mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication formulation to include the interactions between the gear dynamics and the gear tribological behavior. The flash temperature rises are quantified within a wide speed range under the different operating and surface conditions. By comparing the simulation results between the tribo-dynamic and quasi-static conditions, evident deviations are observed, pointing to the important role of the gear dynamics in the flash temperature rise. Very interestingly, it is found not only the line-of-action dynamic response but also the off-line-of-action vibratory motion affects the surface flash temperature.
Small Nucleic Acids in Leishmania

The detection of autonomously replicating genetic elements such as viruses or plasmids in Leishmania may be significant to disease processes and useful for molecular biological studies. Virus-like particles have been detected by electron microscopy in Leishmania hertigi (Molyneux, 1974), Endotrypanum (Croft et al., 1986), and also in Entamoeba. Plasmodia, and Naegleria fowleri (Diamond and Mattern, 1976). In addition, double stranded RNAs which appear to be viral in origin have been observed in Trichomonas vaginalis and Giardia Iambiia (Wang and Wang 1986; 1986b). We report here the detection of a 250 kb DNA (LDl) and a 6 kb RNA (LR1) both of which may be autonomously replicating genetic elements.
Symposium on Accreditation - Introduction

This short paper serves as the introduction to the symposium on law school accreditation, as well as to highlight the major developments and discussions which in the mid-1990's altered the landscape of this topic.
Fusing data in adaptive agent control systems for electrical grids

This paper reports a Monte Carlo analysis of a novel multi-agent technique for network-centric control in a microgrid scenario. Agents monitor a feeder line shared by n microgrids and collectively assess changes in the direction and magnitude of power system dynamic stability. Every agent samples voltage variation every few milliseconds, classifies observations, and votes to express and communicate their individual inferences about the state of system stability. Monte Carlo simulations are used to investigate the probability that rules for representing and fusing information reliably produce error-resilient collective outcomes (ERCOs) in centralised and decentralised networks. ERCOs overcome communications or decision-making errors to provide a window of opportunity for adapting to correct emergent instability or to minimise harm. Voting systems provide a semantics and syntax for relating low-level data to high-level inferences about network situations. Our results provide a basis for optimising the design of communications infrastructure to control electrical grid stability.
Wagering in Final Jeopardy

In the popular television game show Jeopardy! three contestants accumulate points by giving the correct questions corresponding to the answers provided by the emcee. While the contestants show a great deal of self-confidence in wagering in Final Jeopardy!, the last stage of the game, they appear to give little thought to betting strategy. In this article, we look for a reasonable strategy for wagering in Final Jeopardy! We consider betting strategies from two perspectives. First, we describe a practical strategy to use against two contestants who behave in a way predicted by actual game data. After this, we determine how the game might be played if all of the contestants were knowledgeable in game theory.
A Prospective, Placebo‐Controlled Pilot Evaluation of the Effect of Omeprazole on Serum Calcium, Magnesium, Cobalamin, Gastrin Concentrations, and Bone in Cats

Background Chronic proton pump inhibitor administration has been associated with electrolyte and cobalamin deficiency, disrupted bone homeostasis, hypergastrinemia, and rebound acid hypersecretion in humans. It is unknown if this occurs in cats. Objectives Prolonged oral omeprazole results in altered bone mineral density or content, serum calcium, magnesium, cobalamin, and gastrin concentrations in healthy cats. Animals Six healthy adult DSH cats. Methods In a within subjects, before and after design, cats received placebo followed by omeprazole (0.83–1.6 mg/kg PO q12h) for 60 days each. Analysis of serum calcium, magnesium, cobalamin, and gastrin concentrations was performed on days 0, 30, and 60. Bone density and content were evaluated on days 0 and 60 of each intervention. Continuous data were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA (α = 0.006). On day 60 of omeprazole administration, continuous intragastric pH monitoring was performed in 2 cats to evaluate the effects of abrupt withdrawal of omeprazole. Results No significant changes were detected between treatments for any variables, except serum gastrin, which was significantly higher during omeprazole treatment in comparison to placebo (P = 0.002). Evidence of gastric hyperacidity was seen in both cats in which intragastric pH monitoring was performed following cessation of omeprazole. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Although further studies with larger populations of cats will be needed to draw any definitive conclusions, these preliminary results suggest that prolonged PPI treatment results in hypergastrinemia and abrupt PPI withdrawal might result in RAH in cats.
Impact of Volcanic Ash on Pear Psylla (Homoptera: Psyllidae) and Associated Predators

Populations of pear psylla, Psylla pyricola Foerster, in pear orchards receiving ca. 6 mm of volcanic ash from the eruption of Mt. St. Helens on 18 May 1980, continued to expand as in previous years. Orchards receiving 2.5 to 4.5 cm of ashfall generally had lower populations of pear psylla. Laboratory tests with whole ash and a fine fraction indicated that a 70 to 80% reduction of a generation of pear psylla exposed to the ash could be expected. Populations of winged predators were decimated, but Deraeocoris brevis (Uhler) populations revived due to oviposition in leaf tissue before the eruption.
The Effects of Defendant Dress and Supervision on Judgments of Simulated Jurors: An Exploratory Study*

Two studies explored the biasing effect of defendant dress (personal/institutional) and supervision (armed/no supervision) on juror judgments of guilt and recommended sentence using 2×2 between-subjects factorial designs. University students in study 1 and registered voters in study 2 watched a videotape of a reenacted criminal trial, then made judgments of defendant guilt and recommended sentences. Results in both studies revealed significant bias against defendants in personal dress with armed supervision and institutional dress with no supervision. Discussion focuses on the appropriateness of models of attribution and equity in describing subjects' discretionary processes, the nature of an unexpected sympathy effect for the defendant in institutional dress with armed supervision, and the practical implications of the findings. Specific needs for future research in this area are also addressed.
Performance Reliability Assessment of a Flexible Wing Micro Air Vehicle using an Efficient Fluid-Structure Interaction Method

The reliability of sustained flight of a thin wing Micro Air Vehicle (MAV) is studied by considering both structural and aerodynamic parameters as uncertain (random) variables. The structural design variables of the wing that are considered to be random are shell thickness, frame elastic modulus, shell elastic modulus, shell cross sectional area, frame material density, and shell material density. The random aerodynamic variables include the free stream velocity and the air density. In the reliability assessment, both the Monte-Carlo simulation method and the Hasofer-Lind-Rackwitz-Fiessler analytical method are used in conjunction with an efficient fluid-structure interaction model to calculate the probability of the MAV achieving adequate lift. The lift reliability, calculated using both methods, is compared, insight is given into influential uncertain parameters, and future reliability-based assessment questions are posed.
Occupational health status of noise workers in wood processing enterprises in Hechi City

[Objective]To understand the present situation of noise occupational hazards in wood processing enterprises and influence on the health of workers,provide reference for the prevention and control of noise and personal protection work. [Method]The noise intensity in workplaces were detected,workers' occupational health examination were carried out,and the detection results were analyzed. [Results]The over standard rate of noise detection results in 56 posts was 32. 14%,total abnormal rate of health examination among 520 workers was 38. 85%,the abnormal rates of blood pressure( 25. 19%) and pure tone hearing threshold(16.54%) were higher. High frequency hearing loss was the main abnormal pure tone hearing threshold,and the difference of hearing loss in different length of service,ages and genders groups were statistically significant.[Conclusion]The harm of productive noise in wood processing enterprises on the health of workers is very serious,the government supervision departments and enterprises should pay great attention to it,protect the health of workers.
The Causal Theory of Time

The causal theory of time, which had occupied an important place in the thought of Leibniz and of Kant, again became a subject of central philosophic interest during the current century after its detailed elaboration and logical refinement at the hands of G. Lechalas,1 H. Reichenbach,2 K. Lewin,3 R. Carnap,4 and H. Mehlberg.5 Specifically, it earned its new prominence in recent decades by its role in the magisterial and beautiful constructions of the relativistic topology of both time and space by Reichenbach6 and Carnap.7 More recently, I used the causal theory of time to show semantically that, with respect to the relation “later than” the events of physics can meaningfully possess the seemingly counter-intuitive denseness property of the linear Cantorean continuum. And, in this way, I was able to supply the semantical nervus probandi which had been lacking in Russell’s mathematical refutation of Zeno’s paradoxes of motion.8
Prevalence of and beliefs about electronic cigarettes and hookah among high school students with asthma.

Abstract Purpose To assess current cigarette, hookah, and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use among high school students with and without asthma. Beliefs and use of tobacco products by a household member were also examined. Methods The 2014 Florida Youth Tobacco Survey was administered to high school students to assess current use of cigarettes, hookah, and e-cigarettes (i.e., within past 30 days). Student's home exposure and beliefs about cigarettes, hookah, and e-cigarettes were also assessed. Students were randomly selected using a two-stage cluster probability design. Results Adolescents with asthma had a higher prevalence of current hookah (14.0%) and e-cigarette use (12.4%) compared with their peers (10.9%, 10.2%, respectively). Adolescents with asthma were also at increased risk for current use of cigarettes (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.24), hookah (AOR: 1.32), and e-cigarettes (AOR: 1.34). Adolescents with asthma reported positive beliefs about tobacco products and were more likely to report living with individuals who used cigarettes (31.5%), hookah (12.1%), and e-cigarettes (15.5%) compared with their peers (26.5%, 8.5%, 12.5%, respectively). Conclusions Adolescents with asthma reported tobacco product use, positive beliefs about tobacco products, and high potential home exposure to tobacco products. There is a pressing need for education regarding potential harm of alternative tobacco products among adolescents with asthma.
Real-Time 3-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography Novel Utility in Atrial Fibrillation Ablation With a Prosthetic Mitral Valve

With the increase in cardiac transcatheter interventions, multiplane 2-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and intracardiac echocardiography have emerged as guiding tools, but they have potential limitations in clarifying the spatial relationship of the catheters relative to surrounding structures.1 Recently, the use of real-time 3-dimensional (3D) transthoracic echocardiography has been reported in Amplatzer closure device procedures2 and in endomyocardial diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.3 The real-time 3D technology now has been merged with TEE to provide superior high resolution for the real-time volume image from the …
Leader Development in an Unpredictable World: Transferable Skills and Organizational Development

Leaders in the 21st century recognize that building their organization’s leadership potential is going to be a major differentiator for future success. For them, the development of a leadership pipeline in their organization will be a top priority. These leaders know that they must venture into new waters for concepts, processes and practices to enable their people to develop the qualities necessary for success today and in the future.