cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A simple legged locomotion gait model

Abstract Significant advances have been occurred over the past two decades in issues related to the mechanical design of legged robots and the coordination and control of legs during locomotion. The performance of current legged robots, however, remains far below even their most simple counterparts in the biological world. Naturally, this has lead to a search by researchers for biologically motivated principles of design and control which might lead to improved performance and robustness. In this paper, the role of central pattern generators (CPGs) in locomotion is studied. In contrast with previous approaches, we suggest the use of a single pattern generator whose output is connected to motor neurons (servo controllers) through neural pathways (cables) that generate the time delays characteristic of various gaits. A mathematical model for such a scheme is developed and a simple algorithm for encoding the characteristic gaits of bipeds, quadrupeds and hexapeds is presented. The paper concludes with a description of ongoing experimental work on a hexaped robot.
Adding the Community to Channel Surfing: A New Approach to IPTV Channel Change

While IPTV architecture and user interfaces have received a lot of interest in recent years much less focus has been given to the issues of channel surfing in the IPTV era. IPTV is rapidly transitioning from a Telco solution into a generic service over any broadband access network. Traffic issues that relate to channel change are moving to the mainstream and are the talk of a number of standards organizations. This paper proposes a new approach to channel change. It uses peering and viewing statistics to reduce channel change delays and improve the user quality of experience.
Characterization and recycling of waste water from guayule latex extraction

Abstract Guayule commercialization for latex production to be used in medical products and other high value applications is now a reality. Currently, wastewater following latex extraction is discharged into evaporation ponds. As commercialization reaches an increased scale, the liquid waste stream from latex extraction will become an environmental and cost issue. The objectives of this study were to (1) evaluate the properties of the liquid waste streams after latex extraction, (2) determine if the waste liquids could be reused, and (3) determine if any of the waste liquid could be recycled for latex extraction. Waste liquid was collected from three waste stream sources (W1–W3) from the pilot latex extraction facility operated during 2006 and analyzed for nutrient content, sodium absorption ratio (SAR), and pH. The SAR for W1 indicated it was acceptable for irrigation use. The high SAR values for W2 and W3 indicated they could not be used for irrigation because the high Na content would adversely affect soil properties. The N content of the waste liquid averaged about 0.2%, and the K values were between 500 and 600 ppm. The solids in W1 and the unpleasant odor characteristic of the waste liquid were overcome by lowering the pH of the waste liquid from over 10 to less than 7. Based on the SAR analyses, six treatments were developed for evaluating the potential for recycling W2 and W3 in the latex extraction process. Results showed that using the treatments comprised of the W2 and W3 waste streams recycled to the extraction process resulted in a lowered SAR of the waste liquid being discharged (26.95–10.5). Based on our results it might be possible to recover latex from the waste liquid by recycling. More importantly, none of the treatments associated with recycling reduced latex recovery. Reuse and recycling the waste liquids would reduce the amount of waste liquid discharged by 50% and the initial amount of extraction solution by 80%. In conclusion, results from this study show that (1) W1 can be used for irrigation after treatment and (2) recycling W2 and W3 for latex extraction is possible.
Symmetry tests with highly charged ions

Abstract We summarize the present status of testing the standard model of parity nonconservation in neutral atoms, emphasizing the success in understanding the semileptonic weak interactions. There is good agreement for the nuclear spin independent contributions, especially in cesium. There is some evidence of nuclear spin dependent terms, probably due to hadronic weak interactions. There is no evidence of leptonic weak interactions. The lessons learned from atomic physics are discussed, together with strategies for parity experiments using highly charged ions.
Validity of the body image detection device

The construct of body image distortion has occupied a central role in conceptualization of anorexia and bulimia nervosa. However, measurement of the construct has been problematic despite introduction of several varied measurement techniques. One new technique is the Body Image Detection Device (BIDD), which includes a measure of perceptual body image distortion (BPI) and subjective ratings of relative weight (SRI). The current study sought to examine the validity of the BIDD. In general, the SRI showed moderately favorable validity, while the validity of the BPI was not supported in this population.
Nuclear-charge distribution in fission: Cumulative yields of short-lived krypton and xenon isotopes from thermal-neutron fission of 235U

Abstract Experiments are described in which use was made of the very large emanating powers of barium stearate and uranyl stearate for determination of cumulative yields for a number of krypton and xenon isotopes formed in the thermal-neutron fission of 235U. The results, expressed as the fraction of the total chain yield, are: 89Kr, 0·960 ± 0·004, 90Kr, 0·86 ± 0·02; 91Kr, 0·59 ± 0·01; 92Kr, 0·31 ± 0·01; 139Xe, 0·82 ± 0·02; 140Xe, 0·59 ± 0·01; 141Xe, 0·21 ± 0·02; 143Xe, (8·5 ± 0·5) × 10−3; 144Xe, (1·1 ± 0·1) × 10−3. These data along with previously reported independent-yield data are used for construction of an empirical curve of the most probable primary charge (ZP) vs. mass number. In the regions where shell edges are absent the curve is about equidistant for complementary mass numbers from the most stable charge (ZA) lines for light and heavy fragments as proposed in the postulate of equal-charge displacement; in the regions where shell edges are present the ZP curve makes a smooth continuous transition. The ZP curve tends to approach and remain close to the 50-proton shell edge. It is proposed and some evidence is presented that the charge distribution curve (for a given mass number) is distorted for uranium fission in the regions near Z = 50 and Z = 42 because the 50-42 proton split is favoured, at least partly at the expense of the 51-41 and 49–53 proton splits.
Characterization of the aqueous fractions from hydrotreatment and hydrothermal liquefaction of lignocellulosic feedstocks.

Abstract In this study the aqueous phases resulting from the hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of biomass and the hydrotreatment (HT) of fast pyrolysis bio-oils were analyzed via TC, COD, GC-MS, GC-FID, HPLC, and ICP-OES to determine the organic and inorganic species present and the quantitative amounts of each. This work is necessary to address a significant knowledge gap in the literature related to the aqueous phases from thermochemical processes. Results showed that water from the hydrotreatment of eight different bio-oils contained less than 1 wt% total carbon, in many cases less than 0.2%. Negligible organic carbon was observed. HTL samples contained between 1 and 2 wt% carbon. Due to the large volume of water added to the HTL feedstock and the dilute samples generated, this accounts for 34–45% of the total carbon sent to the reactor. The majority of this carbon was present as acids, with glycolic acid and acetic acid having the highest concentrations. Alcohols, specifically methanol and ethanol, were also present. Numerous ketones were observed, consisting of mainly acetone and cyclopenta-ones. The amount of the total carbon identified and quantified in the HTL samples ranged from 64 to 82%. Inorganic species present in the HT samples were sodium, silicon, and sulfur. The highest levels of sulfur were observed in the grasses and agricultural residue (corn stover). The HTL samples exhibited much higher inorganic content, with very high levels of sodium and potassium. Alkali and alkali earth metals, as well as sulfur, were also present at levels high enough to raise concerns for the use of catalysts in downstream upgrading or reforming processes.
The Theory of Linear Prediction

Linear prediction theory has had a profound impact in the field of digital signal processing. Although the theory dates back to the early 1940s, its influence can still be seen in applications today. The theory is based on very elegant mathematics and leads to many beautiful insights into statistical signal processing. Although prediction is only a part of the more general topics of linear estimation, filtering, and smoothing, this book focuses on linear prediction. This has enabled detailed discussion of a number of issues that are normally not found in texts. For example, the theory of vector linear prediction is explained in considerable detail and so is the theory of line spectral processes. This focus and its small size make the book different from many excellent texts which cover the topic, including a few that are actually dedicated to linear prediction. There are several examples and computer-based demonstrations of the theory. Applications are mentioned wherever appropriate, ut the focus is not on the detailed development of these applications. The writing style is meant to be suitable for self-study as well as for classroom use at the senior and first-year graduate levels. The text is self-contained for readers with introductory exposure to signal processing, random processes, and the theory of matrices, and a historical perspective and detailed outline are given in the first chapter. Table of Contents: Introduction / The Optimal Linear Prediction Problem / Levinson's Recursion / Lattice Structures for Linear Prediction / Autoregressive Modeling / Prediction Error Bound and Spectral Flatness / Line Spectral Processes / Linear Prediction Theory for Vector Processes / Appendix A: Linear Estimation of Random Variables / B: Proof of a Property of Autocorrelations / C: Stability of the Inverse Filter / Recursion Satisfied by AR Autocorrelations
Allocation of Students in North African Universities.

In recent years, student bodies at public universities in Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia have grown rapidly, outside the direct control of university authorities. But although entry to higher education remains open to all who pass the baccalaureat examination, the prospect of continued expansion has led to reevaluations of how universities are to serve society by “producing” trained professionals. Government officials, school authorities, and the public have focussed attention on the entry point as a crucial moment for maintaining educational standards within universities and other higher institutes and for determining the social and economic outcomes of higher education. In this article initial attention is given to how the three North African nations differ in their policies regulating which students may study which subjects. This is followed by a discussion of the implications of these policies for the goals higher education is ostensibly meant to serve.
Aerodynamic characteristics of the HL-20

Wind-tunnel tests were made from subsonic to hypersonic speeds to define the aerodynamic characteristics of the HL-20 lifting-body configuration. The data have been assembled into an aerodynamic database for flight analysis of this proposed vehicle. The wind-tunnel data indicated that the model was longitudinally and laterally stable (about a center-of-gravity location of 0.54 body length) over the test range from Mach 20 to 0.3. At hypersonic speeds, the HL-20 model trimmed at a lift/drag (L/D) ratio of 1.4. This value gives the vehicle a crossrange capability similar to that of the Space Shuttle. At subsonic speeds, the HL-20 has a trimmed LID ratio of about 3.6. Replacing the flat-plate outboard fins with fins haying an airfoil shape increased the maximum subsonic trimmed LID to 4.2.
Sonographic assessment of the morphology and vascularity of ovarian masses.

Summary:This review describes sonographic assessment of the morphology and vascularity of ovarian masses. It emphasizes the evaluation of wall regularity and the detection of papillary excrescences as well as the vascularity of lesions as depicted with color Doppler sonography.
Isotopic Signature of N2O Produced by Marine Ammonia-Oxidizing Archaea

The ocean is an important global source of nitrous oxide (N2O), a greenhouse gas that contributes to stratospheric ozone destruction. Bacterial nitrification and denitrification are thought to be the primary sources of marine N2O, but the isotopic signatures of N2O produced by these processes are not consistent with the marine contribution to the global N2O budget. Based on enrichment cultures, we report that archaeal ammonia oxidation also produces N2O. Natural-abundance stable isotope measurements indicate that the produced N2O had bulk δ15N and δ18O values higher than observed for ammonia-oxidizing bacteria but similar to the δ15N and δ18O values attributed to the oceanic N2O source to the atmosphere. Our results suggest that ammonia-oxidizing archaea may be largely responsible for the oceanic N2O source.
Dural ectasia as a cause of widening of the internal auditory canals in neurofibromatosis

Patients with neurofibromatosis have an increased incidence of acoustic neuroma, which is often bilateral. We present three patients with neurofibromatosis and enlarged internal auditory canals secondary to dural ectasia, without associated acoustic neuromata. Air CT cisternography and Metrizamide CT cisternography was needed in differentiating dural ectasia from acoustic neuroma in two patients.
Effects of halogenated organic compounds on photosynthesis in estuarine phytoplankton

In a study of chlorinated seawater, eighteen organic compounds generated by chlorination were identified. Due to rapid substitution of bromine for chlorine, brominated rather than chlorinated by-products are formed. The effects of these chlorinated by-products on estuarine phytoplankton are not known. Experiments in this study examined singly the effects of fifteen commerically available compounds on photosynthesis by estuarine phytoplankton.
Comorbidity-polypharmacy scoring facilitates outcome prediction in older trauma patients.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the association between comorbidity-polypharmacy score (CPS) and clinical outcomes in a large sample of older trauma patients, focusing on outcome prognostication. DESIGN: The CPS combines number of preinjury medications and comorbidities to more objectively quantify the severity of comorbid conditions. SETTING: An urban tertiary care level 1 trauma center in the Midwest. PARTICIPANTS: Trauma patients aged 45 and older. METHODS: Participants were stratified into four groups according to CPS ranges. Survival analyses were performed using Kaplan-Meier/Mantel-Cox testing. Factors influencing mortality, complications, and survivor discharge destination were evaluated using analysis of covariance and multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS: Records for 469 individuals (mean age 62.1, mean injury severity score 9.3) were reviewed. Higher CPS is associated with greater mortality, complications, longer hospital and intensive care unit stay, and need for discharge to a facility. Higher CPS is associated with lower 90-day survival (Mantel-Cox, P Language: en
ATP modulates Na+ channel gating and induces a non-selective cation current in a neuronal hippocampal cell line.

Abstract Extracellular ATP evoked two excitatory responses in hippocampal neuroblastoma cells (HN2). The first, an opening of a receptor-operated non-selective cation channel and the second was a leftward shift in Na+ channel activation. Both ATP (5–1000 μM) and 2′,3′-(4-benzoyl)-benzoyl-ATP (Bb-ATP, 50 μM) activated a non-selective cation current reversing near 0 mV and shifted the Na+ activation and inactivation curves to the left. Based on a comparison of a series of agonists and antagonists, the inward current appeared to be partially mediated by activation of a P2X7 receptor, although hybrid channels cannot be ruled out. The shift in Na+ channel gating could be separated from the opening of the cation channel, as application of the P2Y antagonist Reactive Blue-2 and GTP shifted the Na+ current activation to the left but failed to elicit the inward cation current. Both responses to ATP and Bb-ATP were insensitive to block by the P2X antagonist suramin (300 μM) but were prevented by incubation in oxidized ATP (200 μM); a putative P2X7 receptor antagonist. Prior screening of the surface negative charge of the membrane with a high concentration of divalent cations prevented both responses. We suggest that ATP4− activates a P2X receptor and becomes trapped on a site, on or near the Na+ channel. Activation of the P2X receptor leads to the opening of a non-specific cation channel, while the binding of ATP4− leads to a modified charge sensed by the Na+ channel, similar to what occurs in the presence of charged amphiphiles as well as a number of β-scorpion toxins.
STUDYING ORGANIZATIONAL JUSTICE CROSS‐CULTURALLY: FUNDAMENTAL CHALLENGES

Because justice is inherently norm‐based, understanding people's perceptions of fairness in organizations requires considering the prevailing cultural standards in which those organizations operate. Social scien‐tists study cross‐cultural differences in justice primarily to comprehend the connection between culture and fairness, providing insight into the different meanings of justice around the world, and to assess the generalizability of culture‐bound organizational justice phenomena. The present studies focus on assessing generalizability, but fall short of doing so optimally because they suffer from several conceptual and methodo‐logical problems that are endemic in this literature. Cross‐cultural research suggests that although concerns about justice may be universal, operationalization of justice standards is highly particularistic. Finally, I address Gallon's Problem as it pertains to justice—that is, how observed connections between culture and justice perceptions may be inflated spuriously because of inevitable cultural diffusion. In closing, I note that the present research appears to be aimed more squarely at theory‐development rather than theory‐testing, which is appropriate, given the current state of the literature.
Museums and Communities: Curators, Collections and Collaboration (Golding and Modest, eds.)

This work is a book review considering the title Museums and Communities: Curators, Collections and Collaboration edited by Viv Golding and Wayne Modest.
A survey of the bacterial flora of the periodontium in the rice rat.

Abstract A survey of the bacteria recoverable from the periodontium of normal rice rats and rice rats with periodontal destruction was undertaken. Forty-five strains of bacteria isolated from fourteen rice rats were examined by appropriate tests to permit generic classification. Recurring strains included enterococci, coli-aerogenes species, Actinomyces, Lactobacilli, aerobic diphtheroids, Staphylococci, and possibly Actinobacillus species. Bacteroides and Fusobacterium were recovered infrequently and spirochaetes were never seen.
Peroxynitrite decreases hemostasis in human plasma in vitro.

Coagulopathy has been associated with clinical scenarios that involve reactive nitrogen species such as peroxynitrite (OONO). Further, OONO decreases tissue factor and fibrinogen function in vitro. Thus, we hypothesized that exposure of plasma to the OONO generated with 3-morpholinosydnonimine (SIN-1), a molecule that produces both nitric oxide and superoxide, would result in a decrease in hemostatic function via diminished coagulation protein activity. Hemostatic function of plasma exposed to SIN-1 (0, 1, 5, and 10 mM for 60 min at 37°C) was assessed with thrombelastography, activated partial thromboplastin time, and prothrombin time in the presence or absence of superoxide dismutase (SOD) or an OONO scavenger. SIN-1 exposure resulted in a significant (P 0.05), dose-dependent decrease in plasma hemostatic function and concurrent significant (P 0.05) decreases in activities of factor VII, factor VIII complex, and factor X. Fibrinogen concentration was not affected by SIN-1. Antithrombin and protein C activity also decreased significantly (P 0.05). Coincubation with SOD or an OONO scavenger significantly (P 0.05) attenuated SIN-1 mediated changes in hemostasis and procoagulant/ anticoagulant activity. We conclude that OONO may decrease hemostatic function in human plasma by nitration of key procoagulants and that OONO may play a significant role in hemorrhagic states.
Spontaneous periodontal disease in the mongolian gerbil

The pathogenesis of periodontal lesions in the Mongolian gerbil (meriones ungiculatus) was studied in sixty-one animals varying in age from two months to five years. Both gross morphologic and histological techniques were employed. The results of this investigation indicate a slowly progressing, insidious form of inflammatory periodontal breakdown in this animal apparently related to the accumulation of plaque and calculus-like accretions. Because of the many morphologic similarities of the periodontal lesion in the gerbil to those of the human periodontal problem, it is felt that this animal is ideally suited for periodontal research.
SCATTERING OF NEUTRONS FROM $sup 16$O IN THE 2.2-TO 4.2-MeV ENERGY RANGE.

We have measured the differential cross sections for scattering of neutrons from $^{16}\mathrm{O}$ at some 14 energies between 2.2- and 4.2-MeV neutron energy by detecting scattered neutrons. In the vicinity of the 3.77-MeV peak in the total cross section of $^{16}\mathrm{O}$, we redetermined the total cross section with a 5-keV energy spread. From a phase-shift analysis of our data and other data taken from the literature, we assign resonance parameters for seven states of $^{17}\mathrm{O}$ between 7.30- and 8.21-MeV excitation energy as follows (in order: excitation energy of $^{17}\mathrm{O}$, $J$ value, parity, and reduced width in single-particle units $\frac{{\ensuremath{\hbar}}^{2}}{\ensuremath{\mu}{\mathrm{a}}^{2}})$: 7.30 (${\frac{3}{2}}^{+}$, 0.23), 7.67 (${\frac{3}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, 0.07), 7.691 (${\frac{7}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, 0.03), 7.694 (${\frac{3}{2}}^{+}$, 0.001), 7.91 (\textonehalf{}-,0.02), 8.08 (${\frac{3}{2}}^{+}$, 0.03), and 8.21 (${\frac{3}{2}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, 0.01). Our finding the narrow ${\frac{3}{2}}^{+}$ state at 7.694 MeV has removed a difficulty in resonance-parameter assignment at the 3.77-MeV neutron energy peak in the total cross section of $^{16}\mathrm{O}$.
Comparison of color to fluorescein angiographic images from patients with early-adult onset grouped drusen suggests drusen substructure.

Abstract Purpose Recent structural and histochemical data from our laboratory indicate that human drusen often possess distinct, structural core domains. A similar, corelike structure is frequently noted clinically in some drusen-related conditions. To assess the nature of the corelike structures observed clinically, we evaluated color photographs and fluorescein angiograms from patients with early-adult onset grouped drusen (EAOGD). Design Retrospective case series. Methods The areas of the six largest drusen and hyperfluorescent lesions for eight patients confirmed to have EAOGD were estimated by two masked examiners (RRG, JCF). Data were normalized using a logarithmic transformation and evaluated using a mixed model analysis to account for intragrader, interobserver and intrasubject effects. Results The average color to hyperfluorescence drusen area ratio was 2.29 (SE, 0.06). The area of drusen viewed in color photographs significantly exceeds that of the corresponding area of hyperfluorescence ( P 2 (SE, 0.001 mm 2 ) and the average hyperfluorescent lesion area was 0.006 mm 2 (SE, 0.0005 mm 2 ). The areas of the hyperfluorescent lesions do not vary among the capillary, venous, and washout angiographic phases. The lesions exceed choroidal intensity and demonstrate prominent, uniformly hyperintense fluorescence throughout all but the choroidal phases of the angiogram. Conclusions These data show that large visible drusen in EAOGD are concentric to regions of hyperfluorescence, suggesting that drusen may possess clinically detectable, substructural domains. Ongoing studies seek to determine whether clinical evidence of drusen substructure may exist in other drusen-associated disorders, such as in age-related macular degeneration.
Real-Time Delay Estimation Based on Delay History

Motivated by interest in making delay announcements to arriving customers who must wait in call centers and related service systems, we study the performance of alternative real-time delay estimators based on recent customer delay experience. The main estimators considered are: (i) the delay of the last customer to enter service (LES), (ii) the delay experienced so far by the customer at the head of the line (HOL), and (iii) the delay experienced by the customer to have arrived most recently among those who have already completed service (RCS). We compare these delay-history estimators to the standard estimator based on the queue length (QL), commonly used in practice, which requires knowledge of the mean interval between successive service completions in addition to the QL. We characterize performance by the mean squared error (MSE). We do an analysis and conduct simulations for the standard GI/M/s multiserver queueing model, emphasizing the case of large s. We obtain analytical results for the conditional distribution of the delay given the observed HOL delay. An approximation to its mean value serves as a refined estimator. For all three candidate delay estimators, the MSE relative to the square of the mean is asymptotically negligible in the many-server and classical heavy-traffic (HT) limiting regimes.
Internal consistency, temporal stability, and reproducibility of individual index scores of the Test of Variables of Attention in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Abstract Psychometric properties of the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) were examined in a cohort of children (n=63) strictly diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD). Internal consistency was assessed via correlational analyses to determine the degree of agreement among various test portions. The temporal stability of errors of omission, errors of commission, response time, and response time variability was evaluated using test–retest reliability. Reproducibility of individual scores for the same indices was assessed using the Bland–Altman procedure. Select TOVA index scores exhibited high internal consistency in this cohort. Although the temporal stability of group scores (test–retest reliability) was satisfactory, individual test scores were less reproducible. Temporal stability and individual test–retest score agreement were greater for response time and response time variability than for errors of omission and errors of commission.
Steps towards eta-Earth, from Kepler data

The goal of this paper is to take steps towards estimating the frequency of terrestrial planets in the habitable zones of their host stars, using planet counts from the Kepler mission. The method is to assume that an analytical form for the underlying distribution function, numerically simulate the observing procedure, compare the simulated and real observations, and iterate the model parameters to achieve convergence in the sense of least-squares. The underlying distribution can then be extrapolated to a region of interest, here the terrestrial habitable-zone range. In this regime (small radii, long periods), the instrument noise makes such detections essentially impossible below a fairly sharply defined threshold signal level. This threshold can be estimated from the existing data. By taking this cutoff into account, the distribution of planets, as a function of radius and period, can be estimated with minimal bias. Extending this distribution to terrestrial planets in habitable-zone orbits can yield an estimate of eta-sub-Earth.
Ultrastructure of the pseudobranch in the euryhaline Cyprinodontid fish, Rivulus marmoratus.

The ultrastructure of the pseudobranch of the euryhaline, self-fertilizing fish, Rivulus marmoratus (Cyprinodontidae) was studied with thin sectio and freeze-fracture transmission electron microscopy. In specimens raised from birth in 1% or 200% seawater, the pseudobranch contains two mitochondria-rich cell types, pseudobranchial cells and chloride cells, each of which has an extensive tubular system. Chloride cells only occur on the lateral aspects of the pseudobranch, with their apical crypts open to the environment. Apical crypt invagination to a “pit” structure and multicellular complexes occur in both salinity extremes. The ultrastructure of chloride cells in 1% and 200% SW is consistent with that described previously in the opercular epithelium, opercular skin, and gill of this species; elaboration of mitochondria and basolateral membrane accompanies increased environmental salinity (King et al.: Cell and Tissue Research 257:367–377, 1989). Pseudobranchial cells constitute the majority of the cells; they do not extend to the surface but have a more organized tubular system that is continuous with the basal membrane. These cells do not exhibit ultrastructural changes in response to increased salinity. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Displacement and Blocking Force Modeling for Piezoelectric Uniflex Microactuators

Microactuators provide controlled motion and force for applications ranging from RF switches to rate gyros. Large amplitude response in piezoelectric actuators requires amplification of their small strain. This paper studies a uniflex microactuator that combines the strain amplification mechanisms of a unimorph and flexural motion to produce large displacement and blocking force. An analytical model is developed with three connected beams and a reflective symmetric boundary condition that predicts actuator displacement and blocking force as a function of the applied voltage. The model shows that the uniflex design requires appropriate parameter ranges, especially the clearance between the unimorph and aluminum cap, to ensure that both the unimorph and flexural amplification effects are realized. With a weakened joint at the unimorph/cap interface, the model accurately predicts the displacement and blocking force of four actuators.© 2008 ASME
Detection of loss of cerebral vascular tone by correlation of arterial and intracranial pressure signals

With the use of a laboratory model, arterial and intracranial pressure signals were obtained under conditions of intact regulation of cerebral blood flow and massive dilation. During elevated intracranial pressure and intact regulation, positive pressure inhalation appears to briefly occlude venous flow into the cranial sinuses during inspiration. As a result, the intracranial pressure and arterial pressure signals are not similar. In contrast, when maximal dilation causes failure of regulation of cerebral blood flow, the intracranial pressure signal is approximately proportional to the arterial pressure signal. Comparison of the cross-correlation function derived from the intracranial and arterial pressure signals to the autocorrelation function of the arterial signal reveals that the two correlation functions are: (1) different during intact regulation and (2) nearly identical during dilation induced failure of regulation of cerebral blood flow. >
Cardioprotective effects of dietary lipids evident in the time‐dependent alterations of cardiac function and gene expression following myocardial infarction

We have previously shown that prolonged high-saturated fat feeding (SAT) for 8 weeks after myocardial infarction (MI) improves ventricular function and prevents the metabolic remodeling commonly observed in heart failure. The current study was designed to delineate the interplay between markers of energy metabolism and indices of cardiac remodeling with 2 and 4 weeks of post-MI SAT in male Wistar rats. By 2 weeks, less remodeling was noted in MI-SAT evidenced by diminished chamber dilation and greater ejection fraction assessed by echocardiography and hemodynamic measures. In addition, gene expression of energy metabolism targets involved in FA uptake, oxidation, and glucose oxidation regulation was increased in MI-SAT with respect to MI alone, although no change in PDH phosphorylation was observed. The regulatory kinase, phosphoinositide 3 kinase (Pi3k), was strongly induced by 2 weeks in the MI-SAT group, although AKT protein content (a primary downstream target of PI3K that affects metabolism) was decreased by both MI and SAT alone, indicating early involvement of cellular signaling pathways in lipid-mediated cardioprotection. Our results demonstrate that cardioprotection occurs acutely with SAT following MI, with improvement in indices of both cardiac function and fatty acid oxidation, suggesting a mechanistic role for energy metabolism in the beneficial effects of high dietary fat following cardiac injury.
THIRTY CANS OF BEEF STEW AND A THONG: ANTHROPOLOGIST AS ACADEMIC, ADMINISTRATOR, AND ACTIVIST IN THE U.S.–MEXICO BORDER REGION

This article explores the role of the anthropologist working with immigrant communities in the U.S.–Mexico Border Region. As an anthropologist, I have had to negotiate my role as an academic, administrator, and activist. The article examines these three roles by analyzing the experience of the anthropologist with immigrant communities and agencies over the past nine years and during the southern California wildfires of 2007. While in many ways the three roles are categorically distinct, they are also connected and work to inform each other. The position of an applied anthropologist in the U.S.–Mexico border has allowed for development of practical and applied solutions to help improve the wellbeing of immigrant communities. This form of applied, practical, yet academically grounded work has the potential to elevate the anthropology of immigration beyond that of traditional researcher.
A study on global supplier selection decision models

It is important to understand supply chain partners’ ‘strategic intent’, particularly in global markets. Strategic intent provides information on potentially controllable strategic dimensions critical in arriving at decisions on global supply chain strategy. Based on past research we would expect supplier selection decision models to vary by country and within a particular country as well. This study examines the effects of industry and executive characteristics on global supply chain partners’ supplier selection decision models. The results show that the criteria used to make supplier selection decisions vary by industry, education and work experience. The resulting supplier selection decision frameworks provide information important for identifying the strategic intent of Korean supply chain partners for US firms.
Women airforce service pilots: An army air corps experiment: Part I

Reports on the formation, work, and achievements of the Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP) training program launched durint WWII. From the moment Adolf Hitler invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, American military leaders began to consider the nation's readiness to fight a potential world war. American battle readiness was found to be exceedingly wanting. General Dwight D. Eisenhower described the military establishment of the time as “started from a position as close to zero as a great nation could conceivably have allowed herself to sink.”1 Two decades of peace and the Great Depression had turned the American focus away from military strength. Hitler's advance in Europe produced a burst of action here at home to correct this weakness.
Coming and Going: Spatial Heterogeneity in Gross Population Flows

Studies of regional labor dynamics typically focus on net migration, but metropolitan areas in the U.S. are highly heterogenous in terms of gross migration. This paper documents the marked spatial heterogeneity in gross inflows and out flows of population and its persistence over time. I find that repeat migration - one-time migrants moving again - is important but insufficient to explain the large spatial differences in mobility. I then describe the characteristics of mobile versus immobile markets. Demographic differences are present, but small. Instead, locational differences in mobility are strongly associated with differences in their local labor markets, especially growth rates, income premia, and income dispersion. I argue that the observed income premia are consistent with superior human capital accumulation and that human capital accumulation and income dispersion are plausibly linked to higher rates of both in inflows and out flows.
Outcomes after discontinuation of routine use of transanastomotic biliary stents in pediatric liver transplantation at a single site

Routine use of transanastomotic biliary stents (RTBS) for biliary reconstruction in liver transplantation (LT) is controversial, with conflicting outcomes in adult randomized trials. Pediatric literature contains limited data. This study is a retrospective review of 99 patients who underwent first LT (2005-2014). In 2011, RTBS was discontinued at our center. This study describes biliary complications following LT with and without RTBS. 56 (56%) patients had RTBS. Median age at LT was 1.9 yr (IQR 0.7, 8.6); 55% were female. Most common indication for LT was biliary atresia (36%). Most common biliary reconstruction was Roux-en-Y choledochojejunostomy (75% with RTBS, 58% without RTBS, p = 0.09). Biliary complications (strictures, bile leaks, surgical revision) occurred in 23% without significant difference between groups (20% with RTBS, 28% without RTBS, p = 0.33). Patients with RTBS had routine cholangiography via the tube at 6-8 wk; thus, significantly more patients with RTBS had cholangiograms (91% vs. 19%, p < 0.0001). There was no difference in the number of patients who required therapeutic intervention via endoscopic or percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (11% with RTBS, 19% no RTBS, p = 0.26). Routine use of RTBS for biliary reconstruction in pediatric LT may not be necessary, and possibly associated with need for costlier, invasive imaging without improvement in outcomes.
Passive and active drug targeting: drug delivery to tumors as an example.

The paradigm of using nanoparticulate pharmaceutical carriers has been well established over the past decade, both in pharmaceutical research and in the clinical setting. Drug carriers are expected to stay in the blood for long time, accumulate in pathological sites with affected and leaky vasculature (tumors, inflammations, and infarcted areas) via the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, and facilitate targeted delivery of specific ligand-modified drugs and drug carriers into poorly accessible areas. Among various approaches to specifically target drug-loaded carrier systems to required pathological sites in the body, two seem to be most advanced – passive (EPR effect-mediated) targeting, based on the longevity of the pharmaceutical carrier in the blood and its accumulation in pathological sites with compromised vasculature, and active targeting, based on the attachment of specific ligands to the surface of pharmaceutical carriers to recognize and bind pathological cells. Here, we will consider and discuss these two targeting approaches using tumor targeting as an example.
Accurate determination of ferric iron in garnets

Numerous techniques are available to determine the amount of Fe 2+ and Fe 3 + in minerals. Calculating Fe 2+ and Fe 3 + by charge-balance using electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) data is the most common method, but several studies question the usefulness and accuracy of this approach (Canil and O’Neill 1996; Dyar et al. 1993, 2012; Lalonde et al. 1998; Li et al. 2005; McGuire et al. 1989; Schingaro et al. 2016; Schmid et al. 2003; Sobolev et al. 2011). We compile and compare data for natural garnets that have been analyzed by both EPMA and Mossbauer spectroscopy. Comparison of Fe 3 + / ∑Fe determined by charge-balance vs. Mossbauer spectroscopy shows an approximate 1:1 correlation. The EPMA data set of Dyar et al. (2012) is reexamined and it is shown that disagreement between EPMA and Mossbauer for their data is not nearly as bad as reported. Data for charge-balance vs. Mossbauer spectroscopy are compared and show that the EPMA/charge-balance approach provides a suitable alternative when other methods are not practical.
Influence of Kidney Function on Blood Pressure Response to Lifestyle Modifications: Secondary Analysis From the Exercise and Nutritional Interventions for Cardiovascular Health (ENCORE) Trial

The kidney is an important regulator of blood pressure (BP). To determine whether BP response to lifestyle modification varies across normal ranges of kidney function, the authors examined the moderating role of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) on clinic and ambulatory systolic BP (SBP) response in overweight and obese adults with unmedicated high BP. Among 144 participants of the Exercise and Nutritional Interventions for Cardiovascular Health (ENCORE) trial, mean age was 52.0±9.6 years and median eGFR was 89.1 (53-146) mL/min/1.73m2 . After multivariable regression, the interaction between eGFR and weight loss was significant for clinic (P=.023) and ambulatory SBP (P=.041). Similarly, the interaction between eGFR and improved fitness was significant for clinic (P=.041) and ambulatory SBP (P=.044). The relationship between reduced dietary sodium and SBP was not moderated by eGFR. SBP findings were inconsistent for adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. These findings suggest that the effects of lifestyle modifications on SBP may be influenced by eGFR, even when kidney function is preserved.
Effects of porcine growth hormone on glucose metabolism of pigs: II. Glucose tolerance, peripheral tissue insulin sensitivity and glucose kinetics.

This study was conducted to determine whether the increase in serum glucose observed in pigs treated chronically with pGH is due to an increase in hepatic glucose output or to an impairment in glucose clearance. Barrows (n = 4 per treatment) were treated with pituitary derived pGH (ppGH), recombinant pGH analog (rpGH) or vehicle. Pigs were treated for 28 d by daily i.m. injections. Insulin tolerance and glucose tolerance tests (GTT) were performed on d 19 and 21, respectively, following treatment with pGH. Glucose turnover was quantified on d 28 using [6-3H]glucose. Chronically treating pigs with pGH resulted in a significant decrease (26%; P less than .05) in glucose clearance, as determined by the GTT. Glucose clearance was affected similarly by ppGH and rpGH. Intra-arterial glucose infusion markedly increased plasma insulin concentration in pGH-treated pigs. Peak plasma insulin response was 87% and 58%, respectively, higher (P less than .05) in ppGH- and rpGH-treated than in control pigs. Insulin infusion elicited a marked hypoglycemia in pigs; however, the extent and duration of hypoglycemia were significantly less in pGH-treated pigs (ppGH or rpGH). Glucose production rates were 23% higher (P = .085) in ppGH-treated than in control pigs. These results establish that the hyperglycemia induced by pGH is the result of an increase in hepatic glucose output and a concurrent impairment in glucose clearance.
End-to-End Memory Networks with Knowledge Carryover for Multi-Turn Spoken Language Understanding.

Spoken language understanding (SLU) is a core component of a spoken dialogue system. In the traditional architecture of dialogue systems, the SLU component treats each utterance independent of each other, and then the following components aggregate the multi-turn information in the separate phases. However, there are two challenges: 1) errors from previous turns may be propagated and then degrade the performance of the current turn; 2) knowledge mentioned in the long history may not be carried into the current turn. This paper addresses the above issues by proposing an architecture using end-to-end memory networks to model knowledge carryover in multi-turn conversations, where utterances encoded with intents and slots can be stored as embeddings in the memory and the decoding phase applies an attention model to leverage previously stored semantics for intent prediction and slot tagging simultaneously. The experiments on Microsoft Cortana conversational data show that the proposed memory network architecture can effectively extract salient semantics for modeling knowledge carryover in the multi-turn conversations and outperform the results using the state-of-the-art recurrent neural network framework (RNN) designed for single-turn SLU.
Comparison of True Cost Between Modalities in a Changing American Healthcare System

In the United States, healthcare expenditure per capita significantly exceeds that of other developed nations and continues to show a steadily increasing trend. This amount exceeded $8300 per person in 2012 and represented 16.2 % of our gross domestic product [1]. If this growth in spending continues as projected, the negative impact on our economy could be substantial [2]. Furthermore, this increase in expenditure has not led to superior outcomes. Changes to our current trajectory are therefore essential to the sustainability of our healthcare system.
Chapter 3 – Applications of The Increment Approximation

This chapter presents an application of the increment approximation R ( t +δ t ) = R ( t ) + R' ( t ) δt + ɛδt by examining a derivation of Hubble's law. As all distant galaxies are red-shifted, they all are moving away from the earth. It seems that they can all be moving away only if the universe is expanding. Hubble proposed his empirical rule to calculate the shifts based on observable color of the stars moving away from the earth. Hubble's law states the following . Much effort has gone into trying to build theoretical models of the universe that will satisfy Hubble's Law.
Emisssion and Energy: A Catch 22

Abstract. The COP21 process targets decarbonisation in three steps during the 21rst century. First the augmentation of CO2:s is to be halted. Next the 40 per cent reduction is to be implemented somehow until 2030. Finally, there is a hope for a carbon free economy at the end of this century. But how about energy? When we speak about the anthropocentric emissions of greenhouse gases, then we are in reality referring to the production and consumption of energy. Energy in a wide sense is vital for the operations of social systems, as energy is the capacity to do work. Without energy, no economic output or GDP. The COP21 Agreement calls for an energy revolution during this century, replacing traditional renewables and fossil fuels with modern renewables that are carbon free. But how could this be achieved in the many poor countries in the world? Keywords. COP21, global energy transformation, GHG or CO2, implementation of COP21, Superfund (Stern), traditional and modern renewables, fossil fuel dependency. JEL. N70, O13, P28.
Acoela (Acoelomorpha) from Belize.

Eight species of Acoela, including two new species, are reported from Belize. The species include four from the family Haploposthiidae (Haploposthia vandula, Kuma albiventer, Parahaploposthia longituba sp. nov., Pseudohaplogonaria rodmani sp. nov.), one from Hofsteniidae (Hofstenia miamia), one from Isodiametridae (Avagina cf. marci), one from Proporidae (Proporus carolinensis), and one from Sagittiferidae (Antrosagittifera corallina).