cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy facilitated by intraoperative nuclear mapping

Background. The inability to predict the location and number of diseased parathyroid glands has precluded the wide acceptance of unilateral neck exploration for primary hyperparathyroidism. We used intraoperative nuclear mapping in patients identified by sestamibi scanning to have a single adenoma in hopes of minimizing operative intervention while maintaining the efficacy of a full exploration. Methods. Fifteen consecutive patients with primary hyperparathyroidism underwent technetium 99m-labeled sestamibi scanning 3.0 ± 0.1 hours before operation. Placement of the initial 2.0 cm incision and all dissection were guided by quantitative gamma counting in four neck quadrants with an 11 mm Neoprobe. Ex vivo radioactivity was determined for parathyroid glands, fat, and lymph nodes. Potential radiation hazards were assessed. Results. Intraoperative nuclear mapping discriminated between 14 solitary adenomas and one patient with four-gland hyperplasia that was not predicted on preoperative sestamibi scanning. Removal of the adenoma resulted in a decline in radioactivity in that quadrant (p < 0.001) and the entire neck (p < 0.05), with equalization of all neck quadrants. Ex vivo counts always identified parathyroid tissue (p < 0.0001 versus fat and lymph node). Adenomas were located in 19 ± 1.7 minutes through a 2.3 ± 0.1 cm incision. No significant radiation hazard existed, and no special handling of the specimen was required (0.06 ± 0.01 mR/hr). Conclusions. Intraoperative nuclear mapping complements sestamibi scanning to help distinguish single-gland from multigland disease. This technique allows for a minimally invasive operation under local anesthesia in a true outpatient setting.
Low-order model identification for implementable control solutions of distributed parameter systems

Abstract Accurate solutions of the distributed parameter system (DPS) may be represented as the sum of an infinite series. Control design however, requires low-order models primarily due to implementation limitations. As such, developing low-order models of high fidelity is important if the objective is accurate control of the DPS. When an exact model (system of partial differential equations (PDEs)) of the system is known, this work presents a method to develop a low-order model that assures convergent and consistent projection to a finite space. The resulting low-order model can then be used to design finite dimensional controllers. When there is no available first-principle model of the system, this work introduces a novel system identification method, that combines the characteristics of singular value decomposition (SVD) and the Karhunen-Loeve (KL) expansion for DPS to arrive at a low-order model that captures the dominant characteristics of the system. Here as well, the final model form allows for the synthesis of finite order controllers. Two non-linear reactor systems that can be described by systems of PDEs are provided to demonstrate the model identification methods. Feedback controllers are then synthesized based on these models to demonstrate their accuracy for disturbance rejection.
Exteroception and exproprioception by dynamic touch are different functions of the inertia tensor

When an object is held and wielded, a time-invariant quantity of the wielding dynamics is the inertia tensor Iij. The 3 x 3 quantity Iij is composed of moments of inertia (on the diagonal) and products of inertia (off the diagonal). Examination of Iij as a function of different locations at which a cylindrical object is grasped revealed that the products related systematically to grip position (a direction), and both the products and moments taken together related systematically to the extent of the rod to one side of the hand (a magnitude in a direction). In two experiments, observers wielded an occluded rod that was held at an intermediate point along its length and reproduced both the felt grip position and partial rod length. In both experiments, perceived grip position was a function of the rod's products of inertia and perceived partial rod length was a function of the moments and products. Discussion focuses on the specificity of exteroception and exproprioception to Iij.
Selectivities in 1,2,3-triazolide displacements of halides and additions to alkynes

Abstract 4,5-Dicarbomethoxy-1,2,3-triazolide or 4-phenyl-1,2,3-triazolide displace chloride from ethyl chloroacetate or β-chloropropionate to give both 1-N and 2-N alkylated products. Our highest 2-N to 1-N selectivity was ca 5/1 and was found with the base triethylamine in DMF. The same triazolides and others add to alkynes, e.g. ethyl propiolate, methyl acetylenedicarboxylate, phenylpropiolaldehyde, ethyl phenylpropiolate, etc, to give Michael adducts at the 2-N position exclusively. Here the usual preference holds, i.e., the anti adduct is favored, but anti to syn isomerization usually sets in. On the basis of the available data for nucleophilic substitutions and additions, a limited directioselectivity pattern emerges for H-1,2,3-triazoles ( T ) and their anions ( T − ): neutral T almost invariably leads with 1-N; T t- - usually adds to unsaturates at 2-N; unsubstituted, 4-substituted and 4,5-disubstituted T − attack organic halides at both 1-N and 2-N. Compared to phenyl, 2-triazolyl exerts a greater deshielding effect on proton chemical shifts; these and other patterns in the PMR spectra of the Michael adducts are discussed. CNDO calculations indicate that the 1-H is more stable than the 2-H-1,2,3-triazole and that in both neutral triazole and in triazolide, the 1-nitrogen position should lead nucleophilic attacks-this directioselectivity prediction is only partly (and probably fortuitously) correct.
Retreatment of recurrent nasopharyngeal malignancy using a radium mold.

Abstract The problems and possibilities of using different radiotherapeutic modalities to treat a recurrent nasopharyngeal malignancy were discussed. The description of the treatment of a patient demonstrated the use of a radium mold. This method of treatment, when planned and individualized for the patient, represents an effective method for retreatment of a nasopharyngeal malignancy.
The utilitarian contract: A generalization of Rawls' theory of justice

In a series of major papers culminating in A Theory of Justice,1 John Rawls constructs an alternative to utilitarianism by developing a social contract theory of moral and political philosophy. Unfortunately, Rawls formulates the two basic principles upon which the theory rests in such a way as to restrict (unduly) the contract theory's applicability (see Section I). In this paper we present a more general discussion of the theory of justice that avoids the problems of Rawls' formulation and yet retains the important idea of justice as fairness and the contractarian approach (Section II). Later it is argued that this more general theory constitutes a bridge between the pure utilitarian theories and the social contract doctrines (Sections V and VI). The theory's advantages are demonstrated by applying it to a problem discussed by Rawls, intergenerational equity, and comparing the two solutions (Section III). Further comparisons are made and inferences drawn in the concluding three sections.
Cycloheximide Inhibition of Delayed Early Gene Expression in Baculovirus-Infected Cells

Abstract The baculovirus protein IE1 is required for the transactivation of many early viral genes in transient expression assays. However, cycloheximide inhibition studies have failed to reveal a dependence of early gene transcription on expression of IE1 in infected cells. We show here that synthesis of IE1 was not effectively inhibited by the addition of 100 μg/ml cycloheximide, the concentration routinely used in these studies. However, when cycloheximide was added at 250 μg/ml, IE1 synthesis was repressed to less than 5% of control levels. These more stringent conditions were used to discriminate between immediate early and delayed early genes. Transcription of three immediate early genes (ie1, ie2,andie0) was increased by the addition of high concentrations of cycloheximide. However, transcription of three other early genes (39k, p35,andlef-3), which are known to be dependent on IE1 transactivation, was significantly reduced by the addition of 250 μg/ml cycloheximide. Immunoblot analyses also revealed a difference between the immediate and delayed early class of viral genes. Synthesis of IE1, IE2, and IE0 was resistant to cycloheximide treatment, while translation of SSB/LEF-3 and pp31 was strongly inhibited even at the lower concentration of cycloheximide. Although cycloheximide was shown to be useful in defining early temporal classes, it induced apoptosis in both uninfected and infected Sf9 cells when used at the inhibitory concentration.
Teaching software engineering to a mixed audience

Abstract This paper describes some observations derived from teaching a course in software engineering to a mixed audience of undergraduates and professional Master's degree students at Cornell University. We describe our philosophical goals in teaching the course, some of the problems we encountered, some of the unexpected results, and what we intend to do differently next time.
Electrical conductivity of ultramafic rocks to 1820 kelvin

Abstract Electrical conductivity, σ, of six ultramafic rocks (garnet-bearing peridotites and an eclogite) has been investigated in the temperature range 670–1820 K under known ƒ O 2 environment. Between 670 and ∼1320 K σ increases with 1/T monotonically, first slowly, by 1–1.5 orders of magnitude. Above 1320 K σ increases sharply; an increase of 3–4 orders of magnitude is observed between 1320 and 1670 K. In the same temperature range the σ values for all the six rocks fall within 1.5 orders of magnitude, the lowest conductivity being for a spinel lherzolite. The range of σ values is narrowed at higher temperatures. The differences in σ values above 1470 K may be explained on the basis of varying degrees of partial melting in the rocks. Over the entire range of temperature, the σ values for the ultramafic rocks are lower than those reported for basalts but higher (by 1–2 orders of magnitude) than those for single-crystal olivines.
Composition of the metal phases in ordinary chondrites - Implications regarding classification and metamorphism

The paper examines the composition of metal phases and metamorphism in ordinary chondrites. It is shown that below 550 C increasing Co decreases the equilibrium kamacite Ni concentration of an alpha to gamma system, and that the equilibrated L chondrites have kamacite and taenite Co concentrations in the L-group range. Metal-phase studies of petrologic type-3 ordinary chondrites with highly unequilibrated silicates showed a wide range in the degree of matrix kamacite equilibration; in the three most unequilibrated chondrites most taenite is clear, and the high Ni content shows that metamorphic temperatures were lower than 400 C in these meteorites.
Microcalorimetry and DSC study of the compatibility of energetic materials

Abstract This study included accelerated aging of cyclotetramethylene tetranitramine (HMX) and CH-6 (>97% RDX), coating of HTPB propellant with two sealants (A, B) and reaction kinetics between cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX) and organic salt (ammonium benzoate). Isothermal microcalorimetry (IMC) analyses at 55–75°C and DSC analyses at decomposition temperatures (180–300°C) were in agreement regarding compatibility. IMC heat flow measurements indicated that aging conditions did not affect HMX and CH-6. DSC rates of reaction at 200°C were similar and thus indicated no reaction. DSC onset of reaction and IMC heat flow measurements showed that one sealant (A) had an interaction with the HTPB propellant while the other did not. When the sealants were combined their reaction with HTPB decreased as the amount of sealant B increased. Reruns of HTPB with sealants A and sealants A+B after 3 weeks at room temperature showed that there was still an additional reaction of ∼9%. IMC and DSC kinetic analyses were carried out on HTPB propellant+sealant A admixture. IMC gave a value of 5 kcal/mol for the reaction in the 55–75°C region while DSC measured the decomposition reaction where the activation energy was lowered from 48 kcal/mol for the propellant to 43 kcal/mol for the admixture. DSC kinetic study of RDX+organic salt showed a shift of the RDX peak temperature from 217°C (neat RDX) to 180°C (admixture). The activation energy for decomposition of the admixture was 25 kcal/mol. Literature values for neat RDX is 47 kcal/mol. Thus DSC kinetic data indicated that the admixture was incompatible at elevated temperature. An IMC kinetic study at temperatures from 65 to 77°C for this admixture gave a value of 33 kcal/mol. The reaction mechanism in the DSC and IMC experiments may be different since in the former case it involves a reaction between a gas (NH 3 ) and a liquid (RDX) while in the latter case it involves a gas (NH 3 ) and solid RDX which is a much slower reaction as also reflected in the higher activation energy.
Superficial Temporal Arterial Dilation Without Headache in Extracranial‐Intracranial Bypass Patients

SYNOPSIS Superficial temporal arterial (STA) dilation has long been associated with migraine pain, but it is still not clear if vasodilation alone is sufficient to produce pain. Extracranial-intracranial bypass (EC-IC) patients are known to exhibit STA dilation post-operatively. A group of 56 E.C.-I.C. patients was questioned about headache, during scheduled post-operative examinations. Routine pre-operative and post operative arteriograms of the STA were compared to verify vasodilation. Doppler sonograms were performed on eight of these patients to demonstrate systolic flow velocity changes and to evaluate velocity pulse curve profiles. Despite significant and sometimes marked arterial dilation, as well as pulsatile changes consistent with migraine, none of the subjects complained of post-operative headache. Implications of the results with regard to migraine, hypertensive and toxic headaches are discussed.
Better Not Put a Ring on It

Same-sex marriage is all the rage these days and supporting it is a civil-rights no brainer. But sociologist Suzanna Danuta Walters warns us that we should never imagine that gaining this signals the end of homophobia or the beginning of deep social belonging.
Nutritional Management of Grazing Beef Cows

In grazing operations, forage quality and availability are sometimes limited, and cattle are unable to consume enough nutrients from pasture forage to fulfill requirements. During such situations, supplemental or replacement feeding is necessary to meet production goals. A fundamental understanding of ruminant nutrition and forage management is helpful in deciding which feed or supplement type (ie, energy versus protein) best fits the goals of a specific beef production system. It is important to choose a delivery method and supplement form that provide the targeted amount of desired nutrients to each animal in the herd and that minimize input costs. The objective of this article is to serve as a resource for veterinarians as they provide nutritional management support to beef cow producers.
Reaction time variability in epileptic and brain-damaged patients.

Summary Median reaction times and intra-individual variability were studied in epileptic (N = 63), brain-damaged (non-epileptic) (N = 25) and control patients (N = 25) using a six and one half minute visual, continuous reaction time task. Epileptic and brain-damaged groups were significantly slower than control patients on median reaction times at the 10th, 50th and 90th percentiles and on the differences between the 10th and 90th percentiles. Thus both general slowing and greater intra-individual variability were found in the epileptic and brain-damaged patients. Reaction times were not related to presence, type and severity of EEG abnormality or to age of onset of epilepsy. Grand mal patients did have significantly greater variability than other types of seizure patients. Epileptic and brain-damaged patients did not differ significantly on any reaction time variables. Both groups were discriminated significantly from the controls on all reaction time measures, especially on the intra-individual variability measure.
Chloroplast thylakoid protein phosphorylation is influenced by mutations in the cytochrome bf complex

The effects were studied of the plastoquinone analogs 2,5-dibromo-3-methyl-6-isopropyl-p-benzoquinone (DBMIB) and the 1,3-dinitrophenylether of iodonitrothymol (DNP-INT) on thylakoid protein phosphorylation activated either by light or by reduction in the presence of duroquinol or reduced ferredoxin. Light-activated phosphorylation in the presence of methyl viologen was increased by 0.5–1.0 μM DBMIB or DNP-INT as the reoxidation of plastoquinone and net linear electron flow were inhibited. The phosphorylations of the light-harvesting complex of Photosystem II, of a 32 kDa polypeptide and of the kinase itself (autophosphorylation) were progressively and selectively inhibited at tenfold higher concentrations of either inhibitory analog. Ascorbate, but not duroquinol or reduced ferredoxin, potentiated these selective inhibitions. If the membranes were reductively activated in the dark, however, DBMIB or DNP-INT progressively inhibited the phosphorylation of all thylakoid proteins (I50 = 10–15 μM). These observations appear to preclude a simple and direct regulation of protein kinase activity by the cytochrome bf complex at its plastoquinol oxidation (QZ) site. Mutants of Zea and Lemna lacking the cytochrome bf complex were tested for the ability to phosphorylate thylakoid proteins. In both cases, the redox-sensitive phosphorylation of light-harvesting chlorophyll ab protein complex of Photosystem II (LHC-II) was abolished, whereas other PS II peptides were phosphorylated as in the wild types. Immune blot analysis showed that this lesion was not due to the absence of the 64-kDa protein kinase. Nor did the mutants possess defective LHC-II, as shown by its utilization as a phosphorylation substrate in a heterogeneous reconstitution assay.
AGENCY COSTS AND THE PERFORMANCE IMPLICATIONS OF INTERNATIONAL JOINT VENTURE INTERNALIZATION

Recent studies have examined the determinants of international joint venture (IJV) formations and stock market reactions to such investments. Less is known, however, about the evolution of IJVs and the attendant performance implications for parent firms. This paper examines one specific type of IJV evolution, IJV internalization, whereby one firm acquires the IJV by buying out its partner(s). Standard agency theory variables are hypothesized to influence parent firm valuation effects. The results indicate that parent firm valuation effects are positively related to the parent firm equity owned by insiders and the interaction of debt financing and free cash flow. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultimate Strength of Aircraft Structures

Strength analysis of aircraft structures focuses on static strength, fatigue, and damage tolerance of the materials. Countless hours are invested in quantifying the static strength, which is allowed to fully yield under ultimate loads so that the structure can be designed as light and efficient as possible. This analysis is critical to a lightweight initial design, but is also of great importance in the evaluation of engineering modifications and repairs. Analysis of the critical sections often resorts to plastic bending analysis, and use of E.F. Bruhn’s Iterative Slice Method, or Cozzone’s Simplified Method for Symmetric Sections, is often employed. Yet these methods fall short when the critical section includes thin flanges that buckle or cripple prior to ultimate failure, as is generally the case for frames, floor beams, stringers, and other structural members used on aircraft. This paper presents a solution to this shortfall, and introduces a hybrid procedure for calculating the ultimate strength of a cross section that accounts for material non-linearity, flange stability, and other effects.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Denervation of chicken skeletal muscle causes an increase in acetylcholinesterase mRNA synthesis.

Abstract We have examined the changes in enzymatic activity and the levels of transcripts for AChE following denervation of chicken skeletal muscle. Quantitation of RNA blots indicates that AChE transcripts are increased following denervation. AChE transcripts increased ∼17-fold in the fast-twitch posterior latissimus dorsi muscle and ∼4-fold in the tonic anterior latissimus dorsi muscle 10 days after denervation of adult chickens. Both AChE transcript levels and enzyme activity increased in parallel for the two muscles. AChE transcripts also increased ∼4-fold in the shank muscles of 2-day-old chicks following denervation. Transcript synthesis, measured by run-on transcription, increased ∼3-fold in these denervated muscles. These results suggest that the increase in AChE transcripts following denervation in the chicken is due, at least in part, to an increase in the rate of its synthesis.
Direct observation of liquid-phase sintering in the system tungsten carbide-cobalt

The hot-stage of a scanning electron microscope has been used to observe liquid-phase sintering in the system tungsten carbide-cobalt. Densification behaviour and the mechanism for the first, fast stage of sintering have been determined; the influence of particle size and the amount of liquid phase has been investigated. In all samples the densification kinetics is that of a rearrangement process; direct observation confirmed this result.
Models and solution techniques for production planning problems with increasing byproducts

We consider a production planning problem where the production process creates a mixture of desirable products and undesirable byproducts. In this production process, at any point in time the fraction of the mixture that is an undesirable byproduct increases monotonically as a function of the cumulative mixture production up to that time. The mathematical formulation of this continuous-time problem is nonconvex. We present a discrete-time mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) formulation that exploits the increasing nature of the byproduct ratio function. We demonstrate that this new formulation is more accurate than a previously proposed MINLP formulation. We describe three different mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) approximation and relaxation models of this nonconvex MINLP, and we derive modifications that strengthen the linear programming relaxations of these models. We also introduce nonlinear programming formulations to choose piecewise-linear approximations and relaxations of multiple functions that share the same domain and use the same set of break points in the domain. We conclude with computational experiments that demonstrate that the proposed formulation is more accurate than the previous formulation, and that the strengthened MILP approximation and relaxation models can be used to obtain provably near-optimal solutions for large instances of this nonconvex MINLP. Experiments also illustrate the quality of the piecewise-linear approximations produced by our nonlinear programming formulations.
Worst-case identification in structured process systems

Abstract An improved method for identifying the worst-case set of parameter combinations in controllable systems is presented that is based on branch and bound search in the space of the uncertain parameters. A characteristic of controllable structured systems frequently appears wherein the limiting condition is localized in a part of the system that has only limited coupling to the other parts. While there may be many uncertain parameters varying in parts upstream of the limiting constraints, often there will remain sufficient control degrees of freedom in those other parts to compensate. The branch and bound method in its simplest form cannot recognize this situation, and will usually engage in searching among combinations of such parameters, when in the end they have no effect on the limiting condition. Modifications to the basic method are presented that allow these parameters to be recognized a priori . The complexity of the branch and bound search is reduced accordingly, while the rigor of the original method is maintained. As shown in three heat exchanger network examples, a substantial reduction in effort is often achieved.
Heterokaryosis is not required for virulence of Heterobasidion annosum.

Intensive sampling of the pathogenic fun- gus Heterobasidion annosum in white fir stands yielded a large percentage of homokaryotic isolates. To assess the stability and virulence of homokaryotic isolates, four homokaryons and four heterokaryons were in- oculated on 200 roots from 50 mature trees. Roots were sampled after 4 and 12 months. Eighty-three percent of the inoculated roots were infected, and 95% of the isolates retrieved were identified as the isolates originally inoculated. Homokaryons were not heterokaryotized and no significant colonization dif- ference was observed between homokaryons and het- erokaryons. One year after the removal of inoculated roots and the subsequent creation of large basal wounds, fungal isolates that had reached the root col- lar and colonized the main stem of the tree could still be isolated. Eight putative heterokaryons and six putative homokaryons were obtained from stems of a subsample of the inoculated trees and were grown in the laboratory. Six of eight heterokaryons re- mained unchanged, whereas all six homokaryons had been heterokaryotized.
Homogenized constitutive and fatigue nucleation models from crystal plasticity FE simulations of Ti alloys, Part 1: Macroscopic anisotropic yield function

Abstract Deformation and fatigue failure behavior of polycrystalline titanium alloys have strong dependence on the local microstructural characteristics. Reliable analysis of mechanical response and fatigue life in structures is contingent upon accurate description of material behavior using continuum-level constitutive models, with roots in the underlying microstructure. This two part paper is aimed at developing continuum models of plastic deformation and fatigue crack nucleation in polycrystalline Ti alloys from detailed analysis of underlying polycrystalline microstructures. In the first of this two-part paper, a homogenized, anisotropic plasticity constitutive (HAPC) model is developed from crystal plasticity finite element simulation results of microstructural representative volume elements. This model is able to capture important deformation characteristics of Ti-based alloys, which are pressure insensitivity, anisotropy and tension–compression asymmetry. The advantage of this model is that it avoids having to perform computationally expensive micromechanical analysis at each point in macroscopic simulations. An extension of this model is also introduced to account for the rate dependency observed in mechanical behavior of Ti alloys. In the second part of this two-part paper, a macroscopic, probabilistic fatigue crack nucleation model is developed using the HAPC model.
Branding Equity Capital

Equity capital is not a commodity. It can be differentiated and therefore branded. Branding investment capital will increase its competitive advantage, make it more attractive, and allow it to command privileged access and/or premium returns. Branding capital is now a scattered and ad hoc activity, but will become increasingly important. The value of a capital brand can be assessed and enhanced. Those investors who realize this and energetically move to develop a strong brand for their investment capital will undoubtedly strengthen their competitive advantage in the marketplace. This article outlines the reasons why branding capital is becoming increasingly important, reviews activities by private equity and venture capital firms and others in this area, suggests practical steps to identify a capital offering’s unique selling propositions in order to develop and enhance its brand, and presents the concept of capital due diligence.
The suburbanization of poverty? An alternative perspective

A popular and powerful narrative focuses on a crisis of suburban decline in the United States. However, a consensus regarding the scope and scale of one dimension of suburban decline—poverty—is hindered by the use of contradictory definitions of suburban space. This research presents an alternative approach to measuring suburban poverty that is less computationally intensive yet capable of capturing complex shifts in the spatial distribution of poverty within metropolitan areas. An analysis of the distribution of poverty in the largest 100 metropolitan areas between 1990 and 2007–11 concludes that while poverty is increasing in the low-density suburbs of a handful of large metropolitan areas, the more general trend in most other metropolitan areas is an increase in poverty in moderately dense residential areas. Implicated in these trends are long-term trends in metropolitan area economic growth, a secular decline in inner-ring suburbs, and the impact of gentrification on housing opportunities for at-risk ...
Development of a new time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence diagnostic

Summary form only given. Better understanding of dynamic plasma processes will allow improvements in simulation and prediction of electric propulsion (EP) thruster operation and erosion, and ultimately lead to advancements in thruster technology. Time-resolved measurements are needed, for example, to understand how bimodal average ion velocity distributions can arise in a Hall effect thruster (HET) [1]. For these reasons, we are developing a time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) diagnostic to interrogate EP thrusters. In this paper we present the development and results of initial tests investigating the Hall effect thruster breathing mode.
Atomic physics: quantum leap from light to atoms.

Quantum-information networks use matter for long-term storage and light for long-distance transmission. Teleporting a quantum state from light onto matter has now been achieved.
Laser-induced production of large carbon-based toroids

Abstract We report on the production of large carbon-based toroids (CBTs) from fullerenes. The process involves two-step laser irradiation of a mixed fullerene target (76% C 60 , 22% C 70 ). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) clearly identifies toroidal-shaped structures as well as Q-shaped constructs. The typical diameters of the CBTs are ∼0.2–0.3 μm with tubular diameters of ∼50–100 nm, but toroids as wide as 0.5 μm are observed making them nanostructures on the verge of being microstructures.
Heterogeneity in Oscillator Networks: Are Smaller Worlds Easier to Synchronize?

Small-world and scale-free networks are known to be more easily synchronized than regular lattices, which is usually attributed to the smaller network distance between oscillators. Surprisingly, we find that networks with a homogeneous distribution of connectivity are more synchronizable than heterogeneous ones, even though the average network distance is larger. We present numerical computations and analytical estimates on synchronizability of the network in terms of its heterogeneity parameters. Our results suggest that some degree of homogeneity is expected in naturally evolved structures, such as neural networks, where synchronizability is desirable.
Sonochemical Synthesis of Air-Insensitive Carbide-Stabilized Hafnium Subhydride Nanopowder

An air-passivated hafnium subhydride subcarbide nanopowder of the formula Hf3.47C1.00H2.40Li0.10O0.12 was prepared via a slurry sonochemical reaction of HfCl4 and LiH, followed by a 900 °C vacuum anneal. HRTEM of the nanopowder revealed crystallites of 10 nm average diameter that are agglomerated into larger porous structures.
Theory of optical coherent transients including collisional effects: Application to an extended-pulse photon echo

The interaction between an intense radiation field and atoms that undergo collisions in an atomic vapor is studied. With the assumption that velocity-changing collisions are state independent and weak, we obtain an analytic expression for the time-dependent density-matrix elements by solving a quantum-mechanical transport equation using a dressed-state approach. Our analytical calculation is used to predict the form of the signal in an extended-pulse photon echo. The results show good agreement with an experiment carried out by Yodh et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 53, 659 (1984)]. It is found that the decay rate of the echo signal decreases rapidly with increasing duration of the second pulse in the pulse excitation sequence. A comparison between theory and experiment is presented and a physical interpretation of the results is given.
Optical properties of dual-core hollow waveguides

A new type of hollow glass waveguide has been fabricated that transmits radiation from visible to infrared wavelengths with low loss. The broadband transmission is achieved with a structure consisting of two distinct core regions; a silica annulus for transmission of wavelengths from 0.3 to 2.0 mm and a hollow core for transmission from 2.0 to 12.0 mm. Losses in the silica core at 633 nm are 0.3 dB/m. Losses in the 575-mm bore hollow core at 10.6 μm are 0.6 dB/m. Bending loss is negligible for radiation transmitted in the solid silica core, whereas the hollow guide loss exhibits a 1/R dependence. The dual-core waveguide can transmit broadband radiation, is rugged and flexible, and therefore, is a good candidate for medical or sensor applications.
Models of reactions to changes in nonverbal immediacy

This paper examined the similarities and differences among several models of nonverbal exchange. In that context, an experiment was conducted to test one specific explanation — the violations of expectations model. Immediacy and reward level (manipulated in terms of friend or stranger pairs) were factorially combined in dyads. A broad range of behavioral, arousal, and impression measures were taken. In general, the results of the experiment showed a dominant pattern of reciprocity to increased immediacy, especially on various evaluative measures. In contrast, compensatory responses were much less common in response to increased immediacy and when they occurred were primarily found on measures related to sensory stimulation and comfort. Although these results provided some limited support for the violations of expectations model, the same results were also consistent with some predictions from alternate models.
Evolutionary and tissue-specific control of expression of multiple acyl-carrier protein isoforms in plants and bacteria.

We have examined the occurrence of multiple acyl-carrier protein (ACP), isoforms in evolutionarily diverse species of higher and lower plants. Isoforms were resolved by native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), and were detected by Western blotting or fluorography of [3H]-palmitate-labelled ACPs. Multiple isoforms of ACP were found in leaf tissue of the monocotyledonsAvena sativa andHordeum vulgare and dicotyledonsArabidopsis thaliana, Cuphea wrightii, andBrassica napus. Lower vascular plants including the lycopodSelaginella krausseriana, the gymnospermsEphedra sp. andDioon edule, the fernsDavallia feejensis andMarsilea sp. and the most primitive known extant vascular plant,Psilotum nudum, were all found to have multiple ACP isoforms, as were the nonvascular liverworts,Lunularia sp. andMarchantia sp. and the moss,Polytrichum sp. Therefore, the development of ACP isoforms appears to have occurred early in plant evolution. However, we could detect only a single electrophoretic form of ACP in the unicellular algaeChlamydomonas reinhardtii andDunaliella tertiolecta and the photosynthetic cyanobacteriaSynechocystis strain 6803 andAgmnellum quadruplicatum. Thus, multiple forms of ACP do not occur in all photosynthetic organisms but may be associated with multicellular plants. We have also examined tissue specificity and light control over the expression of ACP isoforms. The relative abundance of multiple forms of ACP in leaf ofSpinacia andAvena was altered very little by light. Rather, the different patterns of ACP isoforms were primarily dependent on the tissue type.
What Works When Learning Solution-Focused Brief Therapy: A Qualitative Study of Trainees' Experiences

With its growing popularity in the field, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) training workshops are becoming more prevalent in the family therapy training field. Because SFBT represents an innovative approach to therapy, does teaching this model demand innovative ways to train its students or are the same methods used in teaching other models of family therapy sufficient? To begin to address this question, it would be important to know how trainees experience SFBT training as it currently exists. This study qualitatively examined the process that trainees experienced when learning SFBT. Fifteen individuals responded to an e-mail questionnaire, with 7 of those individuals participating in follow-up telephone interviews. In summary, being able to practice using a solution focused approach with clients and receiving supervision on those sessions from a supervisor who used a solution focused framework in giving feedback were factors identified as being most helpful in facilitating the learning pro...
Monkeys crying wolf? Tufted capuchin monkeys use anti-predator calls to usurp resources from conspecifics.

The use of ‘tactical deception’ is argued to have been important in the cognitive evolution of the order Primates, but systematic studies of active deception in wild non-human primates are scant. This study tests whether wild tufted capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella nigritus) use alarm calls in a functionally deceptive manner to usurp food resources. If capuchins use alarm calls ‘deceptively’, it was predicted that false alarms should be: (i) given by subordinates more than by dominants, (ii) more frequent when food is most contestable, (iii) more frequent when less food is available, and (iv) given when the caller is in a spatial position in which it could increase its feeding success if conspecifics react to the call. These predictions were tested by observing subjects in experimental contexts, in which the amount and distribution of a high-value resource (banana pieces) were manipulated using wooden platforms suspended from tree branches. While false alarms were non-significantly more common when more food was available, the three remaining predictions were supported. These results generally support the hypothesis that alarm calls are used by capuchins to reduce the effects of feeding competition. Whether this is intentional on the part of the caller requires further investigation.
Differential effects of formoterol on thrombin- and PDGF-induced proliferation of human pulmonary arterial vascular smooth muscle cells

Background Increased pulmonary arterial vascular smooth muscle (PAVSM) cell proliferation is a key pathophysiological component of pulmonary vascular remodeling in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PH). The long-acting β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) agonist formoterol, a racemate comprised of (R,R)- and (S,S)-enantiomers, is commonly used as a vasodilator in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). PH, a common complication of COPD, increases patients’ morbidity and reduces survival. Recent studies demonstrate that formoterol has anti-proliferative effects on airway smooth muscle cells and bronchial fibroblasts. The effects of formoterol and its enantiomers on PAVSM cell proliferation are not determined. The goals of this study were to examine effects of racemic formoterol and its enantiomers on PAVSM cell proliferation as it relates to COPD-associated PH.
Communication of behavorial state in multi-agent retrieval tasks

The impact on performance of a society of robots in a foraging task when simple communication is introduced is assessed. Results are obtained comparing task achievement in the absence of inter-agent communication relative to performance given the minimal knowledge of the behavorial state of fellow agents. Simple communication can result in significant performance enhancement. More robots generally mean more efficient use of time, and an overall speedup of goal recovery. Upon inspection of the larger body of results, which give the percentage of timeouts per number of shots, it is apparent that there is greater tendency for timing out with fewer robots. The distance graphs indicate that by adding robots, independent of communication, the task can be accomplished faster. >
Figuring out why we breathe

This paper chronicles the evolution of present understanding of cardiopulmonary physiology and attempts to illuminate both the thought and innovation of all the participating pioneers. Early on, the rate of progress was determined by advances in anatomy - the definition of the vascular system and its relationships to the heart and lungs. It was held back by concerns, especially religious, with the pneuma, and by ignorance of the inability of air and blood to circulate together, and of blood's capability to transport gases within its cells. These stumbling blocks were set aside successively by the advent of microscopic anatomy (red cells and capillaries), chemistry (hemoglobin structure and function; the fact that air is a mixture of gases of different properties; processes of combustion; and the theory of the conservation of matter), and physics (Bohr effect; molecular structure of hemoglobin). Only through access to these facts and principles have we been able to approach some inborn errors and to design molecular prostheses such as oxygen-carrying microspheres and polyethylene glycol-hemoglobin.
The development of urban transportation models

Dur ing the pa s t t h r e e or four y e a r s t he re has been much d i scuss ion in the U n i t e d S ta t e s , and more r e c e n t l y in Europe , abou t the use of c o m p u t e r s for u r b a n land use and t r a n s p o r t a t i o n p l ann ing . C o m p u t e r mode l s have had l i m i t e d use in h i g h w a y p l a n n i n g (in s i m u l a t i n g c u r r e n t and f u t u r e traffic flows) in Chicago, P i t t s b u r g h and o the r A m e r i c a n c i t ies . N u m e r o u s p roposa l s for m o r e s o p h i s t i c a t e d c o m p u t e r mode l s to reso lve a wide v a r i e t y of u r b a n p l a n n i n g p r o b l e m s have appea red . One of the mos t a m b i t i o u s and w i d e l y d i scussed is the mode l p roposed b y the P e n n J e r s e y T r a n s p o r t a t i o n S tudy . W e cannot y e t d e t e r m i n e the d e g r e e of success ach ieved in th is he ro ic m o d e l b u i l d i n g effort , thoug]h the concep tua l bas is of the p r e l i m i n a r y des ign and the a s p i r a t i o n s of i t s c r ea to r s a r e ava i l ab le . 1 T h i s p a p e r d i scusses the ob j ec t i ve s and s u m m a r i z e s some of the p r inc ipa l f indings of ano the r l a rge sca le model b u i l d i n g a c t i v i t y t h e R A N D Corpo ra t i on s t u d y of u r b a n t r a n s p o r t a t i o n . In A u g u s t 1960, the F o r d F o u n d a t i o n m a d e a g r a n t to R A N D for e x p l o r a t o r y s t u d y of u r b a n t r a n s p o r t a t i o n . 2 R A N D dec ided t ha t i t should use i t s expe r i ence in c o m b i n i n g the sk i l l s of eng inee r s and social s c i en t i s t s to c a r r y out a s y s t e m s ana lys i s e m b r a c i n g both e n g i n e e r i n g and economic ques t ions of u r b a n t r a n s p o r t a t i o n . Moreover , we dec ided to t a k e a d v a n t a g e of the fac t t ha t we were not t i ed to so lv ing the u r b a n t r a n s p o r t a t i o n
Caffeine and carbohydrate supplementation during exercise when in negative energy balance: effects on performance, metabolism, and salivary cortisol.

The ingestion of carbohydrate (+CHO) and caffeine (+CAF) during exercise is a commonly used ergogenic practice. Investigations are typically conducted with subjects who are in a rested state after ...
Solid-state carbon-13 NMR Studies of vulcanized elastomers. V. Observation of new structures in sulfur-vulcanized natural rubber

The complementary application of the NMR inversion recovery measurements and the computer fitting of the overlapping spectral region is found to be a useful method for structural analysis of vulcanized natural rubber in the solid state. Since the linewidths in 13C-NMR spectra of solids are relatively broad compared with the differences between chemical shifts, some weak signals are completely obscured in the resulting spectra. If the resonances have sufficiently different relaxation times, such as methyl and methylene carbons, it is possible to detect neighboring heavily overlapped signals by using the inversion recovery delay τ value at which the interfering strong resonance has null intensity. The 20 resonances observed in the spectra of crosslinked rubbers are tentatively assigned to the structural units formed during the vulcanization process. It is found that vulcanizates containing smaller amounts of sulfur (1 and 3%) show insignificant changes in the NMR spectra for curing times of 30 and 90 min. Structural modifications in rubbers cured with 10% sulfur continuously increase with the increasing curing time up to 120 min, indicating a significant loss in double bonds in the later stages of the reaction.
Outcomes and Quality of Life after Partial Pancreatectomy for Noninsulinoma Pancreatogenous Hypoglycemia from Diffuse Islet Cell Disease

Background Noninsulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemia (NIPH) is a rare cause of hypoglycemia, especially affecting postbariatric surgery patients, related to excessive insulin secretion. Partial pancreatectomy controls hypoglycemia in the early postoperative period; however, multiple patients have experienced symptomatic relapse. The study goal was to assess frequency and severity of recurrent symptoms in operated patients. Methods All patients who underwent pancreatic resection for NIPH at Mayo Clinic from January 1996 through December 2008 were reviewed for demographics, preoperative testing, operative and postoperative details. Data from patient records, mail survey, European Quality of Life Survey (EQ-5D), and Fear of Hypoglycemia Scale (FOHS) were used to assess outcome. Results Seventy-five patients underwent pancreatic resection for NIPH (5 dead, 1 incarcerated). 48 patients (70%) completed the survey; mean follow-up, 53 months. Median time to recurrent symptoms was 16 months in 41 patients (87%). Despite symptom recurrence, 36 patients (75%) reported overall improvement in symptoms and quality of life (QOL); median EQ-5D health scores increased from 40 to 75 out of 100 (P Conclusion Although nearly 90% of NIPH patients reported recurrent symptoms suggestive of hypoglycemia, a majority reported improvements in QOL and marked reduction in other symptoms after pancreatic resection. Nevertheless, 25% of patients experienced no benefit from partial pancreatectomy.
Proteomic and Genetic Approaches Identify Syk as an AML Target

Cell-based screening can facilitate the rapid identification of compounds inducing complex cellular phenotypes. Advancing a compound toward the clinic, however, generally requires the identification of precise mechanisms of action. We previously found that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors induce acute myeloid leukemia (AML) differentiation via a non-EGFR mechanism. In this report, we integrated proteomic and RNAi-based strategies to identify their off-target, anti-AML mechanism. These orthogonal approaches identified Syk as a target in AML. Genetic and pharmacological inactivation of Syk with a drug in clinical trial for other indications promoted differentiation of AML cells and attenuated leukemia growth in vivo. These results demonstrate the power of integrating diverse chemical, proteomic, and genomic screening approaches to identify therapeutic strategies for cancer.