cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the effect of texture on the mechanical and damping properties of nanocrystalline Mg-matrix composites reinforced with MAX phases

Abstract Herein, we report on the effect of texture on kinking nonlinear elasticity, damping capability, Vickers microhardness and ultimate compressive strengths of nanocrystalline (NC) Mg-matrix composites reinforced with 50 vol.% Ti 2 AlC. Because all composite and bulk Ti 2 AlC samples tested herein traced fully reversible, reproducible, hysteretic stress–strain loops during uniaxial cyclic compression tests, they were classified as kinking nonlinear elastic (KNE) solids. When the results were analyzed using our recently developed microscale incipient kink band (IKB) model, the various relationships predicted among the three independently measured values – stress, nonlinear strain and dissipated energy per cycle per unit volume, W d – were exceptionally well adhered to. In all composites, and despite very different loops’ shapes and sizes, the critical resolved shear stresses of basal plane dislocations in Ti 2 AlC, calculated from the model fell within the narrow range of 37.7 ± 0.5 MPa. The same was true for the reversible dislocation density that fell in the quite narrow range of 1.1 ± 0.3 × 10 14 m −2 , suggesting the presence of an equilibrium state to which all systems migrate. Because kinking is a form of plastic instability, it was hypothesized that orienting the Ti 2 AlC grains, prior to infiltration, with their basal planes parallel to the loading direction should lead to exceptionally high values of W d . Indeed, at 450 MPa, W d of the composite with this texture was found to be ≈0.6 MJ/m 3 , a value that exceeds the previous record of ≈0.4 MJ/m 3 at 475 MPa reported for a randomly oriented composite. At 700 ± 10 and 380 ± 20 MPa, the ultimate compressive and tensile strengths of the composites were higher than those reported in the literature, Mg–Ti 3 SiC 2 and Mg–SiC composites, in which the Mg-matrix grains were not at the nanoscale.
A treatment outcome study for sexually abused preschool children: initial findings

ABSTRACT Objective Treatment outcome for sexually abused preschool-age children and their parents was assessed, comparing the effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral intervention to nondirective supportive treatment. Method Sixty-seven sexually abused preschool children and their parents were randomly assigned to either (1) cognitive-behavioral therapy adapted for sexually abused preschool children (CBT-SAP) or (2) nondirective supportive therapy (NST). Treatment consisted of 12 individual sessions for both the child and parent, monitored for integrity with the therapeutic model through intensive training and supervision, use of treatment manuals, and rating of audio taped sessions. Parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist, the Child Sexual Behavior Inventory, and the Weekly Behavior Report to measure a variety of emotional and behavioral symptoms. Results Within-group comparison of pretreatment and posttreatment outcome measures demonstrated that while the NST group did not change significantly with regard to symptomatology, the CBT-SAP group had highly significant symptomatic improvement on most outcome measures. Repeated-measures analyses of variance demonstrated group × time interactions on some variables as well. Clinical findings also supported the effectiveness of the CBT-SAP intervention over NST. Conclusions Findings provide strong preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of a specific cognitive-behavioral treatment model for sexually abused preschool children and their parents.
Commentary on "Fragmented testament: letters written by World War II resisters before their execution" by Anne Griffin and Jay Lefer.

Facing execution: can we even imagine ourselves in such a state of mind? This is precisely what this essay invites us to do, through offering us excerpts from 200 last letters written by Belgian resisters in World War II, who had been condemned to death. I applaud the authors for tackling this subject. Far too often, studying such a topic yields to the attempt to only memorialize it, because of the sense of awe it triggers in all of us. But, this essay is not about facing death. It is about men and women of “moral greatness,” as the authors have put it, those who had the courage and resolve to follow their internal sense of justice and chose to resist the Nazis—no matter what the price. They all viewed the choice they made as the truly natural one: they only “did their duty”—there was simply no other choice available to them. There are no indications of ambiguity, hesitation, doubt, or even fear. Rather, they were able to clearly grasp what was happening, and what needed to be done about it; therefore they must have known the danger involved, yet they found a way to handle their fear. Theirs is precisely the mode of knowing which philosopher Philip Hallie calls “action knowledge,”1 when describing the resistance of the Huguenots from the village Le-Chambon sur Lignon under the leadership of Father Andre Trocme. The villagers saved about 5000 Jews,
Activation of ERα is necessary for estradiol’s anorexigenic effect in female rats

While there is considerable evidence that the ovarian hormone estradiol reduces food intake in female rats, it is unclear which estrogen receptor (ER) subtype, ERα or ERβ, mediates this effect. While several studies have demonstrated that activation of ERα, but not ERβ, is sufficient to reduce food intake in ovariectomized (OVX) rats, there are limited data regarding which receptor subtype is necessary. Here we used the selective ERα and ERs antagonists, MPrP and PHTPP, respectively, to investigate this question. We found that antagonism of ERα, but not ERβ, prevented the decrease in food intake following acute administration of estradiol in OVX rats. In addition, antagonism of ERα prevented the estrous-related, phasic reduction in food intake that occurs in response to the rise in circulating levels of estradiol in cycling rats. We conclude that activation of ERα is necessary for the anorexigenic effects of exogenous and endogenous estradiol in female rats.
Rotational Stiffness Study of Two-Element Tethered Coulomb Structures

Combining features of large space structures and free-flying formations has lead to the tethered Coulomb structure concept. UsingCoulomb forces to repel a formation of spacecraft nodes that are connectedwith fine tethers can create large quasi-rigid and lightweight space structures. There are numerous applications for a tethered Coulomb structure ranging from interferometry and remote sensing to component deployment and inflatable structures. This paper presents the first results of the impact of nodal attitude motions on the structure’s dynamics and required charge levels. Nonlinear numerical simulations analyze the complex and coupled relative motion, and analytical natural frequency expressions are developed for small deflections. Quantitative analysis shows that for realistic kilovolt-level potentials, the inflationaryCoulomb forces can stiffen the entire structure to resist deployment and external perturbations. This is demonstrated on a two-node system subject to initial angular-rate errors and differential solar radiation pressure. Further, a simple double-tether system is shown to offer increased stiffening properties and resistance to perturbations.
An AES crypto chip using a high-speed parallel pipelined architecture

Abstract The number of Internet and wireless communications users has rapidly grown and that increases demand for security measures to protect user data transmitted over open channels. In December 2001, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) of the United States chose the Rijndael algorithm as the suitable Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to replace the Data Encryption Standard (DES) algorithm. Since then, many hardware implementations have been proposed in literature. We present a hardware-efficient design increasing throughput for the AES algorithm using a high-speed parallel pipelined architecture. By using an efficient inter-round and intra-round pipeline design, our implementation achieves a high throughput of 29.77 Gbps in encryption whereas the highest throughput reported in literature is 21.54 Gbps.
A constitutive relation for rate-independent hysteresis in ferromagnetically soft materials

Abstract Constitutive relations of the general form, dB/dt = α¦dH/dt ¦[ƒ(H) − B] + (dH/dt)g(H) , with ƒ and g piecewise linear functions, appear to give a good description of rate-independent hysteresis in ferromagnetically soft materials of the isoperm type. When the time-course of the magnetic field H and an initial value B0 of the flux B are given, such relations become differential equations for B(t) that can be integrated explicitly. Expressions are derived here for various curves of interest to experimenters; among these are the initial magnetization curve, hysteresis loops with specified extremal values of H, and the boundary of the accessible region of the (H, B)-plane. The hysteresis loss associated with a general loop is found as a function of the extremal values of H. The stability of hysteresis loops and the limiting behavior of B when H oscillates in specified ways are discussed. Also treated are the restrictions placed on ƒ and g by the requirement that dB/dt always agree in sign with dH/dt.
ESX : a structurally unique Ets overexpressed early during human breast tumorigenesis

The >30 known members of the Ets multigene family of transcriptional regulators are increasingly being recognized for their involvement in early embryonic development and late tissue maturation, directing stage-specific and tissue-restricted programs of target gene expression. Identifiable primarily by their 85 amino acid ETS DNA-binding domain and dispersed across all metazoan lineages into distinct subfamilies, Ets genes also produce malignancies in humans and other vertebrates when overexpressed or rearranged into chimeras retaining the ETS domain, suggesting that their oncogenic potential is determined by the program of target genes they regulate. Searching for Ets factors that regulate expression of the HER2/neu (c-erbB2) oncogene in human breast cancer, we identified a new epithelium-restricted Ets encoding an ETS domain homologous to the Drosophila E74/human Elf-1 subfamily, an amino-terminal region (A-region or Pointed domain) homologous to the distantly related Ets-1 subfamily, and a serine-rich box homologous to the transactivating domain of the lymphocyte-restricted High Mobility Group (HMG) protein, SOX4. Recombinant protein encoded by ESX (for epithelial-restricted with serine box) exhibits Ets-like DNA binding specificity in electrophoretic mobility shift assays and, in transient transfection assays, transactivates Ets-responsive promoter elements including that found in the HER2/neu oncogene. ESX is located at chromosome 1q32 in a region known to be amplified in 50% of early breast cancers, is heregulin-inducible and overexpressed in HER2/neu activated breast cancer cells. Tissue hybridization suggests that ESX becomes overexpressed at an early stage of human breast cancer development known as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).
Enhanced intracellular delivery of the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-generating copper chelator D-penicillamine via a novel gelatin--D-penicillamine conjugate.

D-Penicillamine (D-pen) is an established copper chelator. We have recently shown that the copper-catalyzed D-pen oxidation generates concentration-dependent hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Additionally, D-pen coincubated with cupric sulfate resulted in cytotoxicity in human leukemia and breast cancer cells due to the extracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The inherent physicochemical properties of D-pen such as its short in vivo half-life, low partition coefficient, and rapid metal catalyzed oxidation limit its intracellular uptake and the potential utility as an anticancer agent in vivo. Therefore, to enhance the intracellular delivery and to protect the thiol moiety of D-pen, we designed, synthesized, and evaluated a novel gelatin-D-pen conjugate. D-pen was covalently coupled to gelatin with a biologically reversible disulfide bond with the aid of a heterobifunctional cross-linker (N-succinimidyl-3-(2-pyridyldithio)-propionate) (SPDP). Additionally, fluorescein-labeled gelatin-D-pen conju...
The epidemiology of gastric cancer.

The epidemiology of gastric cancer is remarkable for both its dramatic decline in incidence over the past century and its continuing presence as the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide despite this decline. Factors including increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, and decreased intake of salty foods have largely been credited for the decline. Epidemiologic studies continue to provide data on other gastric cancer risk factors, including associations with Helicobacter pylori infection, as well as dietary factors, tobacco, and alcohol intake. In response to the opposing trends of decreasing distal gastric cancer and increasing gastric cardia adenocarcinoma, studies are beginning to identify gastric cancer risk factors separately by tumor subsite. Future epidemiologic studies that include information on site of origin as well as molecular markers promise to yield more homogeneous classification of case groups, which will enhance identification of underlying disease processes.
Examining the Ethnic Minority Student Experience at Predominantly White Institutions: A Case Study:

The researchers of this qualitative study conducted four focus groups to explore the college student experience of ethnic minorities in an institution of higher education. The purpose of the study was threefold: (a) to examine the experiences of ethnic minority students at a predominately White institution, (b) to discuss the similarities and differences of the experiences among the four groups, and (c) to identify student perspectives on the delivery of student services in the institution. The study examined African American, Asian-Pacific American, Chicano/Latino, and Native American student experiences at a research institution.
mir-125a-5p-Mediated Regulation of Lfng Is Essential for the Avian Segmentation Clock

Somites are embryonic precursors of the axial skeleton and skeletal muscles and establish the segmental vertebrate body plan. Somitogenesis is controlled in part by a segmentation clock that requires oscillatory expression of genes including Lunatic fringe (Lfng). Oscillatory genes must be tightly regulated at both the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels for proper clock function. Here, we demonstrate that microRNA-mediated regulation of Lfng is essential for proper segmentation during chick somitogenesis. We find that mir-125a-5p targets evolutionarily conserved sequences in the Lfng 3' UTR and that preventing interactions between mir-125a-5p and Lfng transcripts in vivo causes abnormal segmentation and perturbs clock activity. This provides strong evidence that microRNAs function in the posttranscriptional regulation of oscillatory genes in the segmentation clock. Further, this demonstrates that the relatively subtle effects of microRNAs on target genes can have broad effects in developmental situations that have critical requirements for tight posttranscriptional regulation.
Intraventricular Hemorrhage in Premature Infants

Four major varieties of intracranial hemorrhage can be recognized in the neonatal period: (1) subdural hemorrhage, (2) primary subarachnoid hemorrhage, (3) intracerebellar hemorrhage, and (4) periventricular-intraventricular hemorrhage.1 Subdural hemorrhage, often related to obstetrical trauma, now is an uncommon lesion in most medical centers. Primary subarachnoid hemorrhage, although very common, is rarely of major clinical importance, because of its venous origin and self-limited course. Intracerebellar hemorrhage, commonly observed at postmortem examination of the small premature infant but rarely documented during life, is of uncertain clinical significance. Periventricular-intraventricular hemorrhage is the most common and serious variety of neonatal intracranial hemorrhage. The enormous importance of this lesion is linked to the remarkable improvements in recent years in neonatal intensive care and, as a consequence, in survival rates for small premature infants. Because periventricular-intraventricular hemorrhage is characteristic of the premature infant (particularly the infant less than approximately 32 weeks gestation), the lesion has reached nearly epidemic proportions in modern neonatal intensive care facilities. INCIDENCE The remarkably high incidence of periventricular-intraventricular hemorrhage is demonstrated dramatically by studies in which premature infants were subjected to computed tomography (CT) scan routinely within the first week of life (Table 1). Thus, 40% to 45% of all such infants exhibited periventricular-intraventricular hemorrhage.2,3
Repression-sensitization: a reflection of test-taking set or personal adjustment.

Summary Lefcourt's (1966) finding that repressors view repression-sensitization (R-S) scales as measures of mental illness, while sensitizers view these scales as revealing honesty with one's self was tested. Thirty-six repressors and 36 sensitizers were assigned to three test-taking conditions: Mental Illness, Openness and Honesty, and Control. Results showed that the three test-taking conditions had no effect on the responding of the repressors and sensitizers to the Millimet (1970) Manifest Anxiety-Defensiveness (MAD) Scale, another measure of R-S. Content analysis revealed that repressors and sensitizers viewed their opposites as maladjusted and adjusted, respectively. The results were seen as supporting a personal adjustment view of R-S.
Periodic route selection for secure packet delivery

The availability and ubiquity of different types of access networks is pushing everyone towards heterogeneous and interconnected core and access network technologies. Enforcing effective security schemes for packet capturing and no denial of service in heterogeneous wireless networks (HWN) is a challenging task for researchers. To overcome these challenges, we need intelligent security techniques which can adapt to change in topology and nature of attacks. To overcome these challenges, we present a new algorithm Periodic Adaptive and Intelligent Route Selection (PAIRS). PAIRS will select appropriate route using adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) periodically. This algorithm minimizes the probability of packet capturing by changing the route of packets periodically. Simulation results illustrates that PAIRS effectively balance overall load of the network and prevents denial of service (DoS) attack by offering improved resource management.
W10294A: a new bronchodilator.

Eight subjects with asthma were given, orally, increasing doses of W10294A (100, 200, 300 and 400 mg), 300 mg aminophylline and placebo on separate days. Forced expiratory flow rates were measured at hourly intervals for 6 h. Significant increases in mean forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) were recorded with the 300 and 400 mg W10294A and 300 mg aminophylline doses compared to placebo. The peak effect of W10294A was recorded at 3 h. The 400 mg W10294A dose resulted in mean FEV1 increases similar to those recorded after the 300 mg aminophylline dose. The mean FEV1 was significantly improved for 6 h by the W10294A. Small but significant increases in mean pulse rate were seen with all doses of W10294A and 300 mg of aminophylline when compared to placebo. Mild headaches or drowsiness were reported by 6 of the 8 subjects after being given W10294A. No headache or drowsiness was reported after 300 mg aminophylline or placebo. We conclude that W10294A causes a dose-related improvement in forced expiratory flow rates and is an effective long-acting bronchodilator with tolerable side-effects when given in single oral doses to asthmatic subjects.
Fragrance material review on dihydrocarveol (R,R,R)

A toxicologic and dermatologic review of dihydrocarveol (R,R,R) when used as a fragrance ingredient is presented.
Exploring the Literate Trajectories of Youth Across Time and Space

Here, I offer a retrospective research narrative of four of my works, Writing in Rhythm: Spoken Word Poetry in Urban Classrooms (published under Maisha T. Fisher, 2007b); Black Literate Lives: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives (published under Maisha T. Fisher, 2009); Writing Instruction in the Culturally Relevant Classroom (with Latrise P. Johnson; Winn & Johnson, 2011); and Girl Time: Literacy, Justice, and the School-to-Prison Pipeline (Winn, 2011). I revisit these texts in order to contribute to a larger discussion of how activity systems and youth participation in these activity systems provide support for youth to build and sustain literate identities in both schools and in out-of-school contexts.
Photovoltaic waste characterization with environmental considerations

The applicability of current regulatory methods for determining the toxicity of photovoltaic (PV) modules at end-of-life is investigated. The toxicity of PV modules is an indicator of potential environmental impacts associated with their disposal in landfills. Because solar energy is perceived as a green technology, it is important to ensure that harmful end-of-life issues, such as the generation of large amounts of e-waste, will not be detrimental to its long-term success. Procedures are developed for preparing samples for extraction tests, including EPA Method 1311 and California W.E.T. and modifications to them, which are performed on different types of PV modules. Sample preparation procedures and leaching test results will be discussed, including their implications for future testing and development of new regulatory methods. The results from the leaching tests are not meant to be representative of all currently available modules but are useful for examining the appropriateness of the current regulatory methods and for providing insight for development of proper end-of-life procedures for either recycling of valuable material or safe disposal of waste. This enables us to take a positive step towards avoiding the e-waste problem with regard to photovoltaic modules and continue the current trends of high growth rates and continuous cost reduction.
Protein arginine methylation of non-histone proteins and its role in diseases

Protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs) are a family of enzymes that can methylate arginine residues on histones and other proteins. PRMTs play a crucial role in influencing various cellular functions, including cellular development and tumorigenesis. Arginine methylation by PRMTs is found on both nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins. Recently, there is increasing evidence regarding post-translational modifications of non-histone proteins by PRMTs, illustrating the previously unknown importance of PRMTs in the regulation of various cellular functions by post-translational modifications. In this review, we present the recent developments in the regulation of non-histone proteins by PRMTs.
Endourological Management of Urolithiasis in Hepatically Compromised Patients

Purpose: Hepatic insufficiency is a medically debilitating disease state, resulting in coagulopathy, malnutrition and immunological suppression. Before and after liver transplantation patients are at increased risk for urolithiasis due to nutritional factors, acidosis and hyperoxaluria.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed our experience with endourological procedures for nephrolithiasis in hepatic compromised patients awaiting transplants and recipients. A total of 16 patients, including 13 males and 3 females, with a mean age of 52.8 years (range 46 to 59) underwent a total of 24 endoscopic stone procedures at 23 anesthesia sessions. Procedures included 18 ureteroscopies (extraction with or without lithotripsy), 5 percutaneous nephrolithotomies and 1 cystoscopic stone manipulation. Of the patients 12 patients had significant hepatic insufficiency and were evaluated for transplantation. Four patients had a prior orthotopic liver transplant at surgery. The most common causes of cirrhosis were...
Entropy-driven structure and dynamics in carbon nanocrystallites

New carbon composite materials are being developed that contain carbon nanocrystallites in the range of 5–17 A in radius dispersed within an amorphous carbon matrix. Evaluating the applicability of these materials for use in battery electrodes requires a molecular-level understanding of the thermodynamic, structural, and dynamic properties of the nanocrystallites. Herein, molecular dynamics simulations reveal the molecular-level mechanisms for such experimental observations as the increased spacing between carbon planes in nanocrystallites as a function of decreasing crystallite size. As the width of this spacing impacts Li-ion capacity, an explanation of the origin of this distance is relevant to understanding anode performance. It is thus shown that the structural configuration of these crystallites is a function of entropy. The magnitude of out-of-plane ripples, binding energy between layers, and frequency of characteristic planar modes are reported over a range of nanocrystallite sizes and temperatures. This fundamental information for layered carbon nanocrystallites may be used to explain enhanced lithium ion diffusion within the carbon composites.
Where’s the Silver? Imaging Trace Silver Coverage on the Surface of Gold Nanorods

The development of the seeded growth synthesis for gold nanorods provided the first simple, convenient wet chemistry route to these nanomaterials. Over the past decade, the original silver-assisted seeded growth procedure has been the subject of further modifications that have continuously expanded access to anisotropic gold nanoparticles; however, the role of silver in formation of gold nanorods remains poorly understood. We report the first experimental evidence on the position of silver present on gold nanorods using advanced energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Our results indicate the deposition of silver ions on the surface shows no preference for a specific face or axis. Furthermore, we show that the “dog bone” structures developed from gold nanorod solutions show preferential deposition of silver atoms on the ends and in the crevices.
Circulating bovine pregnancy associated glycoproteins are associated with late embryonic/fetal survival but not ovulatory follicle size in suckled beef cows

The objective was to examine the relationship between ovulatory follicle size and embryo and fetal survival by using circulating concentrations of bovine pregnancy associated glycoproteins (bPAG) to detect the presence of an embryo or fetus and monitor placental function. Before examining the relationship between bPAG, ovulatory follicle size, and embryo and fetal survival, the half-life of bPAG was determined in Exp. 1. The half-life of bPAG after PGF2α-induced abortion on d 32 to 36 postinsemination was 35.8 ± 21.9 h (mean ± SD; range 7.1 to 78.5 h). In Exp. 2, suckled beef cows (n = 91) were treated with the CO-Synch protocol (GnRH on d -9, PGF2α on d -2, and GnRH and AI 48 h later [d 0]) and classified into 1 of 2 ovulatory follicle size groups: 1) small follicle (<12.5 mm; n = 25) or 2) large follicle (≥ 12.5 mm; n = 66). The first increase (P < 0.0001) in serum bPAG occurred in pregnant cows on d 24 after insemination and circulating bPAG decreased before a decrease in progesterone in 3 of 4 cows that lost an embryo or fetus. Pattern of secretion of bPAG in serum from d 24 to 60 after insemination (d 0) was affected by day (P < 0.0001), but not ovulatory follicle size. In Exp. 3, suckled beef cows (n = 1164) were administered the CO-Synch protocol either with (donor cows; n = 810) or without (recipient cows; n = 354) AI on d 0. Single embryos (n = 394) or oocytes (n = 45) were recovered from the donor cows [d 7; embryo transfer (ET)] and all live embryos were transferred into recipients the same day. Cows were classified on d 0 as having a small (<12.5 mm) or large (≥ 12.5 mm) ovulatory follicle, and randomly chosen as donors or recipients to remove confounding effects of ovulatory follicle size on fertility. Serum concentration of bPAG at d 28 was not affected by ovulatory follicle size (P = 0.85), embryo stage at ET (P = 0.75), embryo quality at ET (P = 0.64), estradiol at GnRH2 (P = 0.62) or serum progesterone at ET (d7; P = 0.14). Compared with cows that maintained pregnancy (n = 176), cows that exhibited late embryonic or fetal mortality (n = 19) after d 28 had decreased (P < 0.05) concentrations of bPAG on d 28. In summary, there was no relationship between serum bPAG and ovulatory follicle size or embryo stage or quality at ET; however, cows that lost an embryo after d 28 had reduced concentrations of bPAG on d 28 compared with cows that maintained pregnancy.
Type-2 fuzzy logic approach for short-term traffic forecasting

The performance of many components in intelligent transportation systems depends heavily on the quality of short-term traffic forecasts. We propose a new method for forecasting traffic based on type-2 fuzzy logic. Type-2 fuzzy logic is powerful in handling uncertainties, including uncertainties in measurements and data used to calibrate the parameters. In our formulation, the value of a membership function corresponding to a particular traffic state is no longer a crisp value. Rather, it is associated with a range of values that can be characterised by a function that reflects the level of uncertainty. Day-to-day traffic information is combined with real-time traffic information to construct fuzzy rules. The performance of the prediction procedure based on type-2 fuzzy logic is encouraging. The mean relative error is in the neighbourhood of 12% for occupancies and 5% for flows. A distinct advantage of a type-2 fuzzy logic-based traffic forecasting approach is that it can produce prediction intervals as a by-product of the fuzzy reduction process. Another desirable property of the proposed model is that the fuzzy engine formulated is usually tractable at every step, making it easy to incorporate site-specific information into the model-building process to obtain more accurate results. (A)
"Then What Have I to Do with Thee?": On Identity, Fieldwork, and Ethnographic Knowledge

Though I moved outside the system to a large extent, I was no less social a creature than any one of them, depending on the day-to-day gratifications of human interchange for my own emotional sustenance. I directly experienced the contagion of belief and feeling, since for me, to understand means to feel with, and in so doing to temporarily take inside a new set of reactions. To know the depth of someone's fear makes it impossible not to behave in terms of that fear; to know the people's definition of betrayal is to suffer in imagination their reaction to being betrayed. -Peggy Golde Women in the Field
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is an NMDA antagonist, neuroprotectant and neurotoxin

Extensive research has failed to clarify the mechanism of action of nitrous oxide (N2O, laughing gas), a widely used inhalational anesthetic and drug of abuse. Other general anesthetics are thought to act by one of two mechanisms-blockade of NMDA glutamate receptors or enhancement of GABAergic inhibition. Here we show that N2O, at anesthetically-relevant concentrations, inhibits both ionic currents and excitotoxic neurodegeneration mediated through NMDA receptors and, like other NMDA antagonists, produces neurotoxic side effects which can be prevented by drugs that enhance GABAergic inhibition. The favorable safety record of N2O may be explained by the low concentrations typically used and by the fact that it is usually used in combination with GABAergic anesthetics that counteract its neurotoxic potential.
Integrating Control Structures Into The Generalized Hough Transform

The paper discusses control strategies which might be used in an integrated fashion with the Generalized Hough Transform.
A discrete and continuous systems simulator: applications of PNTBLSIM to manufacturing systems

Abstract In this note, the use of PNTBLSIM as a language for writing simulation programs is illustrated. PNTBLSIM is suitable both as a general-purpose programming language and as a special-purpose simulation language, and may be used to simulate either discrete or continuous systems. Many types of systems, such as those associated with manufacturing problems, have been studied using state-transition graphs, queueing system models, Petri net models, PERT networks, and continuous-time dynamic models. PNTBLSIM can be used to simulate systems mathematically modeled in any of these ways. The main advantage of PNTBLSIM are its flexibility, simplicity, and portability.
Physical adsorption of gases on graphitized carbon black

Abstract The Percus-Yevick equation of state is applied to a two-dimensional adsorbed fluid. Calculation of the adsorption isotherm is divided into two parts: the Henry's constant for gas-solid interactions, and the configurational contribution of the two-dimensional film. The theory is compared with experimental data for adsorption of argon and krypton on graphitized carbon black and agreement is excellent. This is the first successful calculation of adsorption isotherms over a wide range of temperature and surface density for which no adjustable parameters are used for the two-dimensional equation of state.
Synthesis, thermodynamic and magnetic properties of pure hexagonal close packed nickel

Abstract A novel and fast technique for the synthesis of pure hexagonal close packed (HCP) nickel is demonstrated. The HCP nickel was electrodeposited from NiCl2-1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride (NiCl2-EmimCl) ionic liquid at 160 °C. X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of pure phase. A phase transformation from HCP nickel to face centered cubic (FCC) nickel was observed at 422.6 °C and the enthalpy of transformation was found to be 16.72 J g−1. The phase transformation resulted in the release of hydrogen which makes HCP nickel a potential hydrogen storage material. The electrodeposited nickel showed ferromagnetic properties and the magnetic coercivity was found to be 43 Oe.
The "Social Architects" and Their Architecture of Social Change

American communitarians of the nineteenth century described themselves as "Social Architects" committed to the redesign of society. Their "architecture of social change" represents a conscious effort to reshape the life space of alternative societies. Their goals included uniqueness, accountability, perfectibility, collectivity, and credibility. Their environments were characterized by isolation, unique architectural features, recycling within closed systems, architectural adaptation, "perfect" details, inventions, elaborate transitions between public and private spaces, and prefabrication for easier assembly of the "model" town. The effects of "the architecture of social change" demonstrate the importance of alternative environments to the success of contemporary alternative institutions.
Sensitivity to Orthographic Structure as a Function of Grade and Reading Abilitya

Good and poor readers at two grade levels were presented with zero-order and fourth-order approximations of English words. They were directed to select the one item in each pair that was most wordlike. Results show significant differences were found between older poor readers and younger good readers whose reading ability was equivalent. These results were interpreted as providing support for the hypothesis that orthographic sensitivity is a direct function of reading achievement level, not age or school experience in general.
Parameters of detrusor contractility: I: The effects of electrical stimulation, hysteresis, and bladder volume in an in vitro whole rabbit bladder model

This study represents the first of a five phase project which was designed to develop parameters to assess detrusor contractility and urethral obstruction. The first phase was designed to (1) determine the optimal volume at which to measure various parameters of detrusor contractility and (2) determine the effects of hysteresis on isovolumetric detrusor pressure (Piso). To this end, the bladders of five male white New Zealand rabbits were isolated and placed in a bath chamber. Intravesical pressure and the weight of the voided urine were monitored by a pressure transducer and electronic balance, respectively. Bladder capacity ranged between 41 ml and 53 ml (mean 47 ± 2.34). In the first phase of this experiment, Piso was determined at 1, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 ml. Piso was always found at a volume of 2.5 ml (20.7 ± 2.86). There was a 13% decrease in Piso at 1 and 5 ml, a 35% decrease at 10 ml, and a 49% decrease at 20 ml. This was significant at P < 0.05. In the second part of the experiment, the effect of different methods of filling on the magnitude of subsequent isometric contractions was examined. It was found that preceding strain (hysteresis) had no effect on subsequent contractions. In addition, the average Piso for each volume remained the same regardless of the method of filling. In conclusion, these data suggest that the effect of hysteresis and method of bladder filling on Piso was negligible. In addition, as one would expect from the geometric configuration of the bladder, maximum detrusor pressure occurred at relatively low bladder volumes, i.e., less than 5% capacity. Further research is in progress to determine which parameters are important in delineating and predicting bladder performance.
Supersonic Viscous-Inviscid Interaction of a Swept Compression Ramp with a Turbulent Boundary-Layer

This paper analyzes the supersonic interaction of a swept infinite compression ramp with an adiabatic turbulent boundary layer by means of a non-asymptotic triple deck approach combined with the non-isotropic eddy viscosity model of Rotta. Fundamental analytical descriptions of the 3-D disturbance flow field are obtained for a wide range of Mach number, Reynolds number, boundary layer shape factor and sweep angles. In particular, the following aspects are treated:(1) prediction of the dependence of the upstream influence on sweep angle; (2) assessment of the validity of the so-called independence principle, including deviations due to combined compressibility and turbulence effects plus the cross-flow component of the interactive turbulence, and (3) examination of the shear stress disturbance region close to the wall to obtain basic predictions for the 3-D skin friction line geometry and the onset of separation.
A Training Method for Locomotion Mode Prediction Using Powered Lower Limb Prostheses

Recently developed lower-limb prostheses are capable of actuating the knee and ankle joints, allowing amputees to perform advanced locomotion modes such as step-over-step stair ascent and walking on sloped surfaces. However, transitions between these locomotion modes and walking are neither automatic nor seamless. This study describes methods for construction and training of a high-level intent recognition system for a lower-limb prosthesis that provides natural transitions between walking, stair ascent, stair descent, ramp ascent, and ramp descent. Using mechanical sensors onboard a powered prosthesis, we collected steady-state and transition data from six transfemoral amputees while the five locomotion modes were performed. An intent recognition system built using only mechanical sensor data was 84.5% accurate using only steady-state training data. Including training data collected while amputees performed seamless transitions between locomotion modes improved the overall accuracy rate to 93.9%. Training using a single analysis window at heel contact and toe off provided higher recognition accuracy than training with multiple analysis windows. This study demonstrates the capability of an intent recognition system to provide automatic, natural, and seamless transitions between five locomotion modes for transfemoral amputees using powered lower limb prostheses.
What knowledge managers really do: an empirical and comparative analysis

The advent of information technology has generated not only interest in how to acquire, store and “mine” data, but also how to manage knowledge. Yet, there is still considerable confusion and a lack of understanding of what today’s knowledge managers really do. Continuing a stream of previous research on the behavior activities of traditional managers, this study investigated the relative amount of time today’s knowledge managers (N=307) spend on traditional management functions, communications, human resources and networking. Besides identifying what knowledge managers really do, this study examined what successful knowledge managers do. Comparisons are then made with managers in the 1980s. Finally, the role that information technology plays in knowledge managers carrying out their managerial activities was assessed. The implications of some surprising findings and conclusions end the paper.
Neuropsychological functioning in childhood-onset psychosis and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Background Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and childhood-onset psychosis (COP) are chronic, heterogeneous disorders with symptoms that frequently co-occur, but the etiology of their comorbidity is unknown. Studies of each disorder indicate that both ADHD and COP are associated with a range of neuropsychological weaknesses, but few neuropsychological studies have directly compared groups with ADHD and COP. Methods Groups with ADHD only (32 F, 48 M), COP only (5 F, 5 M), ADHD + COP (9 F, 21 M), and a control group with neither disorder (25 F, 44 M) completed a neuropsychological battery that included measures of verbal working memory, response inhibition, response speed and variability, and selective attention. Results All three clinical groups exhibited significantly lower performance versus the control group on all neuropsychological measures, whereas the only significant difference between the clinical groups was a significantly larger weakness in verbal working memory in the groups with COP. Conclusions The frequent co-occurrence between COP and ADHD may reflect shared neuropsychological weaknesses that are most pronounced on measures of working memory and response variability.
Active Microwave Imaging II: 3-D System Prototype and Image Reconstruction From Experimental Data

A 3-D microwave imaging system prototype and an inverse scattering algorithm are developed to demonstrate the feasibility of 3-D microwave imaging for medical applications such as breast cancer detection with measured data. In this experimental prototype, the transmitting and receiving antennas are placed in a rectangular tub containing a fluid. The microwave scattering data are acquired by mechanically scanning a single transmit antenna and a single receive antenna, thus avoiding the mutual coupling that occurs when an array is used. Careful design and construction of the system has yielded accurate measurements of scattered fields so that even the weak scattered signals at S21 = -90 dB (or 30 dB below the background fields) can be measured accurately. Measurements are performed in the frequency domain at several discrete frequencies. The collected 3-D experimental data in fluid are processed by a 3-D nonlinear inverse scattering algorithm to unravel the complicated multiple scattering effects and produce high-resolution 3-D digital images of the dielectric constant and conductivity of the imaging domain. Dielectric objects as small as 5 mm in size have been imaged effectively at 1.74 GHz.
The Monitoring of CNC Machine Processing Condition Based on the BP Neural Network

As an example for the test of built monitoring system, the experimentation was carried out to monitor the condition of tool wear, which related with the machining process closely. In pattern recognition, using the nonlinear mapping function of neural network, a three-layer BP artificial neural network was selected to carry out the mapping between the processing status and related signal features. In this way, the monitoring of machining processing was implemented. The Matlab Script node of LabVIEW software was used to call the neural network package of Matlab, which reduced the program development cycle and increased the reliability of the program. According to the cutting experimentation of the finger milling cutter, it is verified that BP artificial neural network can effectively recognize the tool condition and accomplish the wear prediction.
Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors. II. Clinical use.

Since their introduction in clinical practice in 1980, ACE inhibitors have been found useful in the treatment of hypertension and CHF. In hypertension, they are effective as monotherapy in 40% to 50% of the patients, and in combination with diuretics or calcium antagonists, they are effective in up to 85% of the patients. They are well tolerated, are not associated with depression, impotence, bronchospasm or metabolic derangements such as hypokalemia, hyperuricemia or hyperglycemia, and do not have adverse effects on the quality of life. As a result, they are preferred in hypertensive patients with CHF, left ventricular dysfunction, mental depression, older age, coronary artery disease, metabolic disorders, chronic destructive pulmonary disease, and peripheral vascular disease. In CHF they cause long-lasting hemodynamic and symptomatic improvement, improve exercise tolerance, and may lower mortality in certain patient subsets. Evolving new indications for ACE inhibitors include the diagnosis of renovascular hypertension, the prediction of surgical success, the treatment of scleroderma renal crisis, the reduction of proteinuria, renal protection, cardioprotection, the improvement of arterial compliance, in Bartter's syndrome and idiopathic edema, etc. ACE inhibitors are usually well tolerated but in some instances they may cause class-specific side effects such as hypotension; usually reversible azotemia or renal failure, especially in patients with renal artery stenosis or with CHF with low blood pressure; cough; angioedema; and hyperkalemia. Differences among ACE inhibitors are emerging and include chemical class (e.g., zinc ligand), biotransformation, potency, pharmacokinetics, prodrugs, tissue effects, additional pharmacologic properties, and drug interactions.
Meßräume und Anwendungsbeispiele

Im Rahmen akustischer Entwicklungsarbeiten an Kraftfahrzeugen ist es oft erforderlich, Untersuchungen an Fahrzeugkomponenten oder an ganzen Fahrzeugen in akustischen Mesraumen durchzufuhren. Das kann z.B. bei der Untersuchung an Motoren auserhalb des Fahrzeugs sowie bei Innengerauschmessungen an Prototypen notwendig sein oder sich aus Witterungsgrunden als zweckmasig erweisen. Derartige akustische Untersuchungen werden je nach Zielsetzung entweder in reflexionsarmen Raumen, den sogenannten Freifeldraumen, oder in Raumen mit extrem reflektierenden Wanden einschlieslich Boden und Decke, den sogenannten Hallraumen, durchgefuhrt.
Developmental toxicity of diphenyl ether herbicides in nestling American kestrels.

Beginning the day after hatching, American kestrel (Falco sparverius) nestlings were orally dosed for 10 consecutive days with 5 μl/g of corn oil (controls) or one of the diphenyl ether herbicides (nitrofen, bifenox, or oxyfluorfen) at concentrations of 10, 50, 250, or 500 mg/kg in corn oil. At 500 mg/kg, nitrofen resulted in complete nestling mortality, bifenox in high (66%) mortality, and oxyfluorfen in no mortality. Nitrofen at 250 mg/kg reduced nestling growth as reflected by decreased body weight, crown‐rump length, and bone lengths including humerus, radius‐ulna, femur, and tibiotarsus. Bifenox at 250 mg/kg had less effect on growth than nitrofen, but crown‐rump, humerus, radius‐ulna, and femur were significantly shorter than controls. Liver weight as a percent of body weight increased with 50 and 250 mg/kg nitrofen. Other manifestations of impending hepatotoxicity following nitrofen inges‐tion included increased hepatic GSH peroxidase activity in all nitrofen‐treated groups, and increased plasma en...