cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A New Ferroelectric Varactor From Water Based Inorganic Precursors

Abstract : Solution deposition processes for the production of thin multi-element metal oxide films continue with great interest and varied success. Solution deposition via either sol-gel or MOD (Metal Organic Decomposition) methods are of interest due to the ability to produce a wide variety of compositional products at low capital investment cost. The sol-gel method generally uses hydrolytically sensitive metal alkoxides as the starting materials. Manipulation of the reagents and different hydrolysis rates for multi-element mixtures are issues. The MOD method utilizes large organic acid metal salts as the starting materials. In general, MOD solutions are more hydrolytically stable than the sol-gel solutions. MOD process challenges include large quantities of carbon to be decomposed during the firing, shrinkage and stress of the thin films, variable chemistry in synthesis of the starting materials (especially when the starting materials for the MOD precursors are metal alkoxides), and long reaction times for the synthesis. For both the sol-gel and MOD precursors, toxic and volatile organic chemical (VOC's) solvents are employed as the vehicle. This paper will review the chemistry-related issues to production of consistent high-quality metal oxide films via the MOD process. The fabrication of thin Ba(x)Sr(1-x)TiO3 (BST) films is described. A new class of MOD precursor has been implemented using polyether acids as the organic vehicle. These new materials are both water stable and water soluble. High quality BST thin films made from these precursors are described and capacitors made from these films are compared to the aliphatic acid MOD materials. Improved capacitors using lower resistance electrodes and interconnects are described, as well as devices designed specifically for our specific application.
Efficient EM scattering analysis based on MoM, HSS direct solver, and RRQR decomposition

A novel technique is presented for efficient electromagnetic (EM) scattering analysis based on a double (geometrical and current-approximation) higher order method of moments (MoM) in the surface integral equation (SIE) formulation in conjunction with a fast parallel direct solver for dense linear systems using hierarchically semiseparable structures (HSS). MoM-SIE matrix blocks are replaced by their low-rank approximations obtained by the rank-revealing QR (RRQR) decomposition for memory compression. Numerical example shows a dramatic memory compression using the novel method while preserving the accuracy of the solution.
Multiverse: efficiently supporting distributed high-level speculation

Algorithmic speculation or high-level speculation is a promising programming paradigm which allows programmers to speculatively branch an execution into multiple independent parallel sections and then choose the best (perhaps fastest) amongst them. The continuing execution after the speculatively branched section sees only the modifications made by the best one. This programming paradigm allows programmers to harness parallelism and can provide dramatic performance improvements.In this paper we present the Multiverse speculative programming model. Multiverse allows programmers to exploit parallelism through high-level speculation. It can effectively harness large amounts of parallelism by speculating across an entire cluster and is not bound by the parallelism available in a single machine. We present abstractions and a runtime which allow programmers to introduce large scale high-level speculative parallelism into applications with minimal effort. We introduce a novel on-demand address space sharing mechanism which provide speculations efficient transparent access to the original address space of the application (including the use of pointers) across machine boundaries. Multiverse provides single commit semantics across speculations while guaranteeing isolation between them. We also introduce novel mechanisms to deal with scalability bottlenecks when there are a large number of speculations.We demonstrate that for several benchmarks, Multiverse achieves impressive speedups and good scalability across entire clusters. We study the overheads of the runtime and demonstrate how our special scalability mechanisms are crucial in scaling cluster wide.
Group Loyalty: Impact of Members' Identification and Contributions

This study investigated how members' identification with a group and value (contributions) to it affected their loyalty/disloyalty. Loyalty was defined as helping the group while harming oneself, whereas disloyalty was defined as harming the group while helping oneself. For high contributors, loyalty was manifested by staying in the group and disloyalty was manifested by leaving. For low contributors, loyalty was manifested by leaving the group and disloyalty was manifested by staying. Results indicated that high group identification increased the likelihood that both high and low contributors decided to stay in the group. However, the impact of this decision on other members' welfare influenced how much stress participants experienced and how they evaluated themselves. Discussion focuses on the psychological mechanisms underlying group loyalty and the factors influencing its behavioral manifestations.
Portfolio Selection: A Review

This paper reviews portfolio selection models and provides perspective on some open issues. It starts with a review of the classic Markowitz mean-variance framework. It then presents the intertemporal portfolio choice approach developed by Merton and the fundamental notion of dynamic hedging. Martingale methods and resulting portfolio formulas are also reviewed. Their usefulness for economic insights and numerical implementations is illustrated. Areas of future research are outlined.
Application of the DNA alkaline unwinding assay to detect DNA strand breaks in marine bivalves

Abstract DNA alkaline unwinding methods were used to detect DNA strand breaks in tissues of marine bivalves following field and laboratory exposures and subsequent recoveries in the laboratory. Field deployments of mussels ( Mytilus edulis ) or oysters ( Crassostrea virginica ) into two highly contaminated urban estuaries (New Bedford Harbor, Massachusetts, and Elizabeth River, Virginia, respectively) resulted in significantly increased DNA strand breaks in gill tissues. DNA strand breaks did not persist in tissues from oysters that were deployed in the Elizabeth River and then allowed to recover in the laboratory for 7–10 days. Laboratory studies were conducted to characterize the sensitivity and specificity of the DNA unwinding method to detect DNA strand breaks in bivalve tissues. Increased DNA strand breaks resulted from acute exposures to sublethal concentrations of the genotoxic agent N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine, but were not persistent for more than 48 h. Acute or chronic (continuous 7 -day) exposures of mussels to sublethal concentrations of copper (not generally considered to be genotoxic) did not result in increased DNA strand breaks. These studies demonstrate that DNA alkaline unwinding methods can be used to reveal potentially genotoxic environmental exposures of bivalves. These methods can be used to evaluate the persistence of DNA damage and species-specific DNA repair capacities.
Energy Efficient Correlated Data Aggregation for Wireless Sensor Networks

Data aggregations from Sensors to a sink in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are typically characterized by correlation along the spatial, semantic, and temporal dimensions. Exploiting such correlation when performing data aggregation can result in considerable improvements in the bandwidth and energy performance of WSNs. For the sensors-to-sink data delivery, we first explore two theoretical solutions: the shortest path tree (SPT) and the minimum spanning tree (MST) approaches. To approximate the optimal solution (MST) in case of perfect correlation among data, we propose a new aggregation which combines the minimum dominating set (MDS) with the shortest path tree (SPT) in order to aggregate correlated data. To reduce the redundancy among correlated data and simplify the synchronization among transmission, the proposed aggregation takes two stages: local aggregation among sensors around a node in the MDS and global aggregation among sensors in the MDS. Finally, using discrete event simulations, we show that the proposed aggregation outperforms the SPT and closely approximates the centralized optimal solution, the MST, with less amount of overhead and in a decentralized fashion.
Material efficiency in the design of ultra-high performance concrete

Abstract This research investigates the material efficiency in the design of ultra-high performance concrete. The material efficiency is influenced by the flowability, mechanical performance, durability and cost. Suitable material constituents have been pre-selected based on their properties and availability in the United States of America. The efficiency of the constituents is progressively investigated using the following three step approach emphasizing: (1) ultra-high performance paste, (2) ultra-high performance matrix, and (3) ultra-high performance fiber composite. Mix design recommendations for performance and cost effective ultra-high performance concretes are made and conclusions for further enhancements are drawn.
Perturbed iterative solution of nonlinear equations with applications to fluid dynamics

Abstract In this work a technique has been developed to solve a set of nonlinear equations with the assumption that a solution exists. The algorithm involves nonlinear Gauss-Seidel iteractions and at each iteration the value of the iterate is added to a predetermined perturbation parameter which is computed in terms of quantities already known. This perturbation parameter has two properties: (i) it determines the mode of convergence, that means it shows how many more computations are required so that convergence may be achieved, and (ii) it accelerates the rate of convergence. The algorithm is computationally simple. Several nonlinear equations have been studied. The results seem to be encouraging.
μ-Opioid receptor knockout mice display reduced cocaine conditioned place preference but enhanced sensitization of cocaine-induced locomotion

Abstract The μ-opioid receptor (OPRM1) is expressed in brain regions implicated in reward and locomotor processes. Reduced reward, not only from opiates, but also from several other abused substances has been observed in mice with lifelong deletions of the OPRM1 gene. To further define the roles of μ-opioid receptors in psychostimulant actions, cocaine psychomotor stimulant and rewarding effects were examined in wild-type (WT), heterozygous and homozygous μ-opioid receptor knockout mice. While μ-opioid receptor knockout did not affect basal locomotion, locomotor stimulant effects of cocaine were enhanced in a within-subjects dose–response experiment. However, further study revealed that in mice injected with 20 mg/kg for the first time, there was no difference in the locomotor-stimulating effects of cocaine between knockout and wild-type mice. In a sensitization study (modeled after the conditions in the dose–response experiment) although not observed in WT mice, OPRM1−/− mice did exhibit cocaine sensitization. By stark contrast, and similar to the effects of other rewarding drugs in OPRM1 KO mice, cocaine reward, as assessed by conditioned place preference, was reduced in both homozygous and heterozygous OPRM1 KO mice. The present results confirm a central role of the μ-opioid receptor in drug reward but opposing effects on locomotor sensitization. The reduced cocaine reward identified in heterozygous μ-opioid receptor knockout mice supports the possibility that humans with fewer available μ-opioid receptors might experience less cocaine reward.
A New Method for the Determination of Velocity Distributions in Cesium Beam Clocks

A new technique for evaluating the velocity distribution in cesium-beam frequency standards is presented. It is based on the dependence of the amplitude of the central maximum of the Ramsey resonance on the exciting microwave power level. The second-order Doppler shift, typically ?f/f 4 ? 10-13 for the NRC primary standards, can be evaluated by this method with an uncertainty of about 10-15, five times the precision attainable previously.
Effect of grinding conditions on the fatigue life of titanium 5Al-2.5Sn alloy

An investigation into the effect of grinding conditions on the fatigue life of titanium 5Al-2.5Sn is presented. Damage to surface integrity and changes in the residual stresses distribution are studied to assess changes in fatigue life. A surface grinding machine, operating at speeds ranging from 2000 to 6000 fpm and using SiC wheels of grit sizes 60 and 120, was used to grind flat subsize specimens of 0.1-in. thickness. After grinding, the specimens were fatigued at a chosen stress and compared with the unadulterated material. A standard profilometer, a microhardness tester, and a scanning electron microscope were utilized to examine surface characteristics and measure roughness and hardness. Increased grinding speed in both wet and dry applications tended to decrease the fatigue life of the specimens. Fatigue life increased markedly at 2000 fpm under wet conditions, but then decreased at higher speeds. Grit size had no effect on the fatigue life.
Pelvic insufficiency fractures in patients with cervical and endometrial cancer treated with postoperative pelvic radiation.

Abstract Objective There is an increased awareness of pelvic insufficiency fractures (PIF) as a potential morbidity of pelvic radiotherapy (RT). The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of PIF and assess prognostic factors, including intensity-modulated RT (IMRT), in gynecologic oncology patients treated with postoperative pelvic RT. Methods We performed a retrospective review of all patients with endometrial or cervical carcinoma who received postoperative pelvic RT at our institution during 2000–2008. Patients who received definitive or palliative RT were excluded. Results A total of 222 patients were identified, of whom 11 (5%) developed PIF at a median time of 11.5months (range, 5.5–87.3months) from RT completion. The 5-year actuarial rate was 5.1% (95% CI 3.3–6.9). In patients with osteoporosis, the 5-year rate was 15.6% compared with 2.9% for those without ( P =0.01). Similarly, patients who were on prior hormone-replacement therapy (HRT) had a higher rate (14.8% vs 4.1%, P =0.009). The median body-mass index (BMI) for patients who developed PIF was significantly lower than those who didn't (25.9 vs 27.2, P =0.016). The rate of PIF was 4.9% whether patients received IMRT or conventional RT. Conclusions The 5-year risk of PIF for postoperative pelvic RT in cervical and endometrial cancer is 5.1%. Women with history of osteoporosis, prior HRT, or low BMI need to be counseled about the risk of PIF. The use of IMRT did not decrease PIF, but further studies are needed to determine if a dose/volume relationship exists between RT and PIF.
A new species of podapolipidae (Acari: Heterostigmata), parasite of Aidemona azteca (Orthoptera: Acrididae) in honduras and redescription of the genus Podapolipoides

Abstract Podapolipoides cohni n. sp. (Acari: Podapolipidae) is described from Aidemona azteca (Saussure) (Orthoptera: Acrididae) collected in La Empalizada, near Juticalpa, El Departamento Olancho, Honduras by the junior author. A redescription of the genus Podapolipoides and keys to American species are based on new discoveries.
Akt Stimulates Hepatic SREBP1c and Lipogenesis through Parallel mTORC1-Dependent and Independent Pathways

Through unknown mechanisms, insulin activates the sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP1c) transcription factor to promote hepatic lipogenesis. We find that this induction is dependent on the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) complex 1 (mTORC1). To further define the role of mTORC1 in the regulation of SREBP1c in the liver, we generated mice with liver-specific deletion of TSC1 (LTsc1KO), which results in insulin-independent activation of mTORC1. Surprisingly, the LTsc1KO mice are protected from age- and diet-induced hepatic steatosis and display hepatocyte-intrinsic defects in SREBP1c activation and de novo lipogenesis. These phenotypes result from attenuation of Akt signaling driven by mTORC1-dependent insulin resistance. Therefore, mTORC1 activation is not sufficient to stimulate hepatic SREBP1c in the absence of Akt signaling, revealing the existence of an additional downstream pathway also required for this induction. We provide evidence that this mTORC1-independent pathway involves Akt-mediated suppression of Insig2a, a liver-specific transcript encoding the SREBP1c inhibitor INSIG2.
Vaccines for hantaviruses: progress and issues

Abstract : The Hantavirus genus of the family Bunyaviridae comprises more than 20 viruses, including several human pathogens. Hantaviruses are maintained in rodent reservoirs and are usually transmitted to humans in aerosols of rodent excreta. Oldworld rodents carry viruses that cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and new-world rodents carry viruses that cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Four hantaviruses cause most cases of HFRS in Asia and Europe: Hantaan (HTNV), Seoul (SEOV), Puumala (PUUV) and Dobrava (DOBV) viruses. HPS- and HPS-causing hantaviruses were discovered in 1993 when an outbreak of severe respiratory distress of unknown etiology occurred in the USA. Most HPS cases result from infections with Sin Nombre virus in North America or Andes virus in South America [1,2].
Self-knowledge defenses to self-threats

Abstract We examined whether people use both shifts in the spontaneous self-concept (self-knowledge content) and in self-concept clarity (self-knowledge structure) to defend against salient self-threats, and identified relevant moderators of this process. In Study 1, women emphasized relational self-aspects in response to mortality salience, compared to men. In Study 2, high self-esteem individuals showed more polarized self-knowledge after mortality salience, while in Study 3 they became faster in their self-categorizations when faced with uncertainty, and more consistent and faster in their self-categorizations when faced with isolation, relative to those with low self-esteem. In the discussion, we focus on how these outcomes can be interpreted as meaning maintenance, clarify the role of self-esteem, and offer directions for future research.
Kinetic Study of Photocatalytic Degradation of Nitrogen Monoxide with Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles in Concrete Pavements

Photocatalytic pavements are a promising solution for air pollution remediation from automobile sources; however, understanding their efficacy in real-world environments remains a challenge. This study proposed an environmental model based on reaction kinetics as a method to evaluate the significance of pollution reduction that could be expected from photocatalytic pavements. Thus, as the first step toward developing an environmental model, the objective of this study was to model the photocatalytic reaction kinetics of nitrogen monoxide (NO) reduction under different environmental conditions. To achieve this objective, photocatalytic concrete pavement samples were made with a two-layer concrete system. With the use of a plug flow photoreactor, laboratory experimental results showed that the photocatalytic oxidation of NO was reaction controlled and adequately described by the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model. The Langmuir-Hinshelwood constants were calculated for 25 unique environmental conditions by varying f...
Animal endogenous triglycerides: I. Swine adipose tissue

The objective of this study was to define the composition of endogenous glycerides of swine adipose tissues as a basis for further studies on the influences of diet and other environmental factors. It was also hoped that the endogenous triglyceride composition might suggest a fresh approach to the problem of the biosynthetic pathway of natural triglyceride mixtures. Swine were fed a fat-free diet from the age of 17 days to 5 months, and the triglycerides of their mesenteric, perirenal and inner and outer back adipose tissues analyzed by silver ion thin layer chromatography and gas liquid chromatography. Four silver ion fractions were found, S3, S2M, SM2 and M3 (S, saturated; M, monounsaturated fatty acids). Corresponding fractions from different adipose tissues had identical fatty acid composition. The fatty acid compositions of the 2 position of the fractions were also identical. However, the fatty acid composition of the unfractionated triglycerides varied from tissue to tissue. It is concluded therefore, that the various adipose tissues of swine contain the same triglycerides in varying concentrations. Stearic and oleic acids were located mainly in the combined 1 and 3 positions. Myristic, palmitoleic and palmitic were in the 2 position, with almost 90% of the saturated acids being palmitic. This specific distribution of the major fatty acids can explain the marked simplicity of swine endogenous triglycerides.
Effects of Intraosseous Erythropoietin during Hemorrhagic Shock in Swine

Objective To determine whether erythropoietin given during hemorrhagic shock (HS) ameliorates organ injury while improving resuscitation and survival. Methods Three series of 24 pigs each were studied. In an initial series, 50% of the blood volume (BV) was removed in 30 minutes and normal saline (threefold the blood removed) started at minute 90 infusing each third in 30, 60, and 150 minutes with shed blood reinfused at minute 330 (HS-50BV). In a second series, the same HS-50BV protocol was used but removing an additional 15% of BV from minute 30 to 60 (HS-65BV). In a final series, blood was removed as in HS-65BV and intraosseous vasopressin given from minute 30 (0.04 U/kg min−1) until start of shed blood reinfusion at minute 150 (HS-65BV+VP). Normal saline was reduced to half the blood removed and given from minute 90 to 120 in half of the animals. In each series, animals were randomized 1:1 to receive erythropoietin (1,200 U/kg) or control solution intraosseously after removing 10% of the BV. Results In HS-50BV, O2 consumption remained near baseline yielding minimal lactate increases, 88% resuscitability, and 60% survival at 72 hours. In HS-65BV, O2 consumption was reduced and lactate increased yielding 25% resuscitability. In HS-65BV+VP, vasopressin promoted hemodynamic stability yielding 92% resuscitability and 83% survival at 72 hours. Erythropoietin did not affect resuscitability or subsequent survival in any of the series but increased interleukin-10, attenuated lactate increases, and ameliorated organ injury based on lesser troponin I, AST, and ALT increases and lesser neurological deficits in the HS-65BV+VP series. Conclusions Erythropoietin given during HS in swine failed to alter resuscitability and 72 hour survival regardless of HS severity and concomitant treatment with fluids and vasopressin but attenuated acute organ injury. The studies also showed the efficacy of vasopressin and restrictive fluid resuscitation for hemodynamic stabilization and survival.
Computational Design of Membrane Proteins

Membrane proteins are involved in a wide variety of cellular processes, and are typically part of the first interaction a cell has with extracellular molecules. As a result, these proteins comprise a majority of known drug targets. Membrane proteins are among the most difficult proteins to obtain and characterize, and a structure-based understanding of their properties can be difficult to elucidate. Notwithstanding, the design of membrane proteins can provide stringent tests of our understanding of these crucial biological systems, as well as introduce novel or targeted functionalities. Computational design methods have been particularly helpful in addressing these issues, and this review discusses recent studies that tailor membrane proteins to display specific structures or functions and examines how redesigned membrane proteins are being used to facilitate structural and functional studies.
Synthesis of Silatranes with All Six-Membered Rings. Influence of Steric Effect on Structure and NMR Behavior1a,b

New silatranes containing all six-membered rings, N[CH2(ButMeC6H2)O]3SiR, where R = CH2Cl (1), Cl (2), Ph (3), OH (4), Me (5), and CCl3 (6), were synthesized starting with tris(2-hydroxy-3-tert-butyl-5-methylbenzyl)amine (7) as the encapsulating agent. The silatranes other than 4 were prepared by the reaction of the triphenol 7 with an appropriate chlorosilane, whereas 4 resulted from the hydrolysis of 2. Their structures were established by X-ray analyses and 29Si NMR data. VT 1H NMR spectra revealed fluxional behavior for 3 and 4. Activation energies for the enantiomeric conversion of the clockwise and anticlockwise orientations of the propeller-like silatranes correlated with increased structural rigidity associated with the ring system. The presence of tert-butyl groups on the aryl ring system located adjacent to the axial R groups introduces a steric effect that is largely responsible in restricting the donor−acceptor interaction to a narrow range of Si−N distances. The latter range is comparable to ...
On the Development of Turbomachine Blade Aerodynamic Design System

A turbomachine blade aerodynamic design process is proposed to design turbomachine blades. The design system, including a global optimization of through flow for whole machine and a local optimization of the airfoil design and airfoil section, stacks up. The airfoil generator code employs Bezier polynomial curves to produce smooth airfoil shapes. A meanline program combined with an optimizer was used to perform the global optimization. In the airfoil section design, for fast calculations of the airfoil pressure distributions a discrete vortex method is developed. A novel Navier-Stokes (N-S) solver is developed for further examination of the airfoil performance for final section design. The N-S code is used to obtain the blade-to-blade quasi-three-dimensional, turbulent, and viscous flow characteristics. The time-dependent N-S equations are discretized and integrated in a coupled manner based on a finite-volume formulation, as well as a flux-difference splitting. The flux-difference splitting method enable...
Three generations; A prediction fulfilled

We recall the theoretical arguments that led us more than ten years ago to predict that there are only three generations. Quark-lepton mass relations (mb/mτ ≈ 2.8), as universally come out from unified theories at superhigh energies (close to the Planck scale), are the key point. We further argue that fractional deviations from Nν=3 may signal new physics. The supersymmetric decay Z→NN, with N the lightest neutralino and lightest supersymmetric particle (LSP), easily fits the bill. In the specific case of flipped (SU(5)×U(1)) unification, there is a strong correlation between mt≈ O(90 ± 10) GeV, slepton masses of O(50 GeV) and the closure of the Universe due to N dark matter, while ΔNν ≈ (0.1–0.5).
Intraoperative assessment of median nerve blood flow during carpal tunnel release with laser Doppler flowmetry

Eleven consecutive median nerves in patients with clinical carpal tunnel syndrome were examined prospectively with laser Doppler flowmetry. All procedures were done without a tourniquet with the patient under local or general anesthesia. Multiple measurements of median nerve blood flow were obtained during carpal tunnel release. Flow characteristics proximal to the transverse carpal ligament did not change after release of the ligament. Beneath the transverse carpal ligament, initial flow was random in 10 of 11 nerves. Within 1 minute after release of the transverse carpal ligament, flow became pulsatile and synchronized with the patient's pulse in nine nerves. Although preliminary, these data suggest that in carpal tunnel syndrome the segment of median nerve beneath the carpal ligament is relatively ischemic and this ischemia may be a factor in the development of symptomatic median nerve entrapment. The rapid return of a pulsatile signal within the nerve after release is positively correlated with relief or improvement of median nerve dysesthesias.
Stirring factors in combustion chambers: A finite-element model of mixing along an “Information flow path”

Detailed maps of “mixing delay time” (τd) and backmix concentration have been made for dispersion of helium tracer in carrier air, to investigate mixing patterns in isothermal combustion chamber models, for unswirled and swirled jets (single and double vortex). Normals to the iso-delay time surfaces are interpreted as “information flow paths” for optimum transit of input concentration changes throughout the chamber. The flow path is modeled by finite elements as a series of Perfectly Stirred Reactors, assumed variable in size, with convective forward and backmix flows (vf and vb) passing through each P.S.R in turn. Other models, based on separate forward and backmix streams with or without cross-mixing, were found to be inadequate. The accepted model satisfactorily predicted the characteristics of unsteady-state tracer response to cut-off, at any chamber location, and enabled prediction of τd for different backmix ratios and P.S.R. sizes. τd, and hence the stirring factor W, are shown to be unique functions of a Peclet Number defined in terms of a flow path length (L) and a mixing dispersion coefficient (Ds). Pe=vL/Ds, for a net flow velocity v. Pe is also related to the backmix ratio by Pe=−ln(vb/vf)N, where N is the number of P.S.R. cells in the flow path. The model is supported by experiment, particularly by way of agreement on values of W calculated directly from delay-time measurements in unsteady-state experiments, and calculated indirectly from Pe Numbers obtained in steady-state backmix experiments. The results indicate that global or macromixing is probably dominated by convective flows rather than turbulence. This also may be true of some aspects of combustion behavior.
Early barbiturate exposure: The brain, sexually dimorphic behavior and learning

Barbiturates, one of the most widely prescribed and abused classes of drugs, reportedly have been prescribed in as many as 25% of pregnancies in the U.S. and Europe over the last 30 years. Nevertheless, there exists little if any data on long-term consequences of prenatal exposure to barbiturates in humans. Evidence from laboratory animals indicates that exposure to barbiturates during early developmental periods results in abnormal neural and biochemical differentiation of the central nervous system, deficits in learning, retarded attainment of developmental milestones, alteration of behavioral and physiological sex differences, increased activity, and decreased responsiveness to aversive and appetitive stimuli. Barbiturates appear to influence the brain via two routes: (1) by direct action on neural tissue; and (2) indirectly by altering hepatic metabolism of steroid hormones. It is concluded that prenatal exposure to barbiturates in human subjects may lead to learning disabilities, decreased IQ, performance deficits, increased incidence of psychosocial maladjustment, and demasculinization of gender identity and sex role behavior in males.
Narcissism, Mania and Analysts' Envy

Character traits like narcissism, mania and grandiosity are routinely discussed in the psychoanalytic literature as aspects of psychopathology only. However, many individuals who have both achieved and contributed to society in the most profound ways often have such characteristics. Psychoanalysts, sometimes envious of patients who possess considerable wealth and/or power, may be inclined to overly pathologize such qualities, denying their own desires for the perks of power and material success. Mad Men is discussed largely in this context.
Endovascular repair of the ascending aorta in patients at high risk for open repair.

Objective Although endovascular repair has been widely adopted for treatment of descending thoracic aortic pathologies, its role in ascending aortic pathologies remains undefined. We reviewed our experience with endovascular repair of ascending aortic pathologies in patients facing high or prohibitive risk with open surgical treatment. Methods From 2007 to 2013, 6 patients (aged 16-90 years) underwent endovascular repair (pseudoaneurysm, n = 4; acute type A aortic dissection, n = 2). Their records were retrospectively reviewed. Results All patients had extensive comorbidities or anatomic features making an open surgical approach high risk. Three cases were done on an emergency basis (aortic dissection, n = 2; ruptured pseudoaneurysm, n = 1). Ascending aortic access was obtained through transapical (n = 4), transfemoral (n = 1), and left common carotid artery (n = 1) approaches. Cook Zenith TX2 (n = 4), Cook EVAR iliac limb (n = 1), and Amplatzer occluder (n = 1) devices were used, with 3 patients requiring more than 1 stent-graft. Stent-graft lengths ranged from 55 to 81 mm; diameters ranged from 22 to 40 mm. Technical success was achieved in 5 cases (83%); 1 patient (type A dissection) had an intraoperative endoleak not amendable to further endovascular repair. In-hospital and 30-day mortalities were zero. One patient sustained a minor stroke, which reversed completely. Stay ranged from 5 to 15 days. On follow-up, 1 patient (type A dissection) had an endoleak at 12 months. Two patients died of nonaortic causes at 6 and 27 months after endovascular repair. Conclusions Endovascular repair of ascending aortic pathology is feasible in patients facing high risk with open surgery, with promising early results. Technical challenges remain in adapting current endovascular technology to ascending aortic pathologies, particularly type A aortic dissection.
Communication, Public Opinion, and Globalization in Urban China

The rise of China and its increasing integration within the global society and economy has generated a cottage industry of books, scholarly and popular articles, and policy analysis and prescriptio...
Long-term efficacy of soy-based meal replacements vs an individualized diet plan in obese type II DM patients: relative effects on weight loss, metabolic parameters, and C-reactive protein.

Achieving significant weight loss and glycemic control in diabetic patients remains a challenging task. This study compared the effects of a soy-based meal replacement (MR) plan vs an individualized diet plan (IDP; as recommended by the American Diabetes Association) on weight loss and metabolic profile. A total of 104 subjects were randomized prospectively to the two treatments for a total of 12 months. In all, 77 of the 104 subjects completed the study. Percentage weight loss in MR group (4.57±0.81%) was significantly greater (P<0.05) than in IDP group (2.25±0.72%). Fasting plasma glucose was significantly reduced in MR group (126.4±4.9 mg/dl) compared with IDP group (152.5±6.6 mg/dl, P<0.0001) at 6 months but not at 12 months. Controlling for baseline levels, hemoglobin Alc level improved by 0.49±0.22% for those receiving MR when compared to IDP group (P<0.05). A greater number of subjects in MR group reduced their use of sulfonylureas (P<0.0001) and metformin (P<0.05) as compared to IDP group. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) decreased −26.3% (P=0.019) in MR group compared to −7.06% (P=0.338) in IDP group at 6 months. Similar changes were observed at 12 months with MR groups, with hs-CRP decreasing by −25.0% (P=0.019) compared to −18.7% (P=0.179) in IDP group. This study demonstrates that MR is a viable strategy for weight reduction in diabetic patients, resulting in beneficial changes in measures of glycemic control and reduction of medications.
Competition between micellization and adsorption of diblock copolymers in a colloidal system

Significant adsorption of polystyrene-poly(ethylene oxide) (PS-PEO) diblock copolymers onto PS latex particles in an aqueous dispersion is accomplished through suppression of micelle formation by adding tetrahydrofuran (THF) as a cosolvent. We add THF, a good solvent for the micelle core, to weaken the micelle and allow free chains for adsorption to the colloidal particles. Choosing a PS colloidal particle as the adsorption substrate (thus the adsorbed PS block can fully wet the subsurface), we eliminate the complications which arise from micelle formation on the colloidal surface. Since the PS particles swell in the mixed solvent, the adsorbed PS block may penetrate into the swollen latex core, which is favored for entropic reasons. A subsequent water quench of the system to a low THF solution shrinks the PS particle to its original size while retaining most of the adsorbed polymers. The adsorbed chains cannot be removed by adding surfactants or raising temperature to 90°C, indicating that the adsorbed layer is tightly attached to the surface due to kinetic hinderance of the chains in a confined environment. Neutron scattering experiments is being carried out to settle whether the PS penetrates the PS particle. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The new model innovation agencies: An overview

There have been four major innovation organization policy moments for the US federal government driven by the demands of politics and technology since World War II: first, the immediate post-war period where the Cold War helped drive a basic research model for new and expanded science agencies; second, the Sputnik aftermath with the formation of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and scaled up funding for science; third, the competitiveness era ‘valley of death’ programs of the 1980s, and finally, a recent energy technology shift driven by energy and climate demands. Some are advocating a fifth: advanced manufacturing. In that lengthy evolution, what lessons have we learned about the design of federal innovation organizations? What are the institutional elements in the ‘new generation’ innovation policy programs now developing or under consideration? The focus is on the evolving federal agency role: what innovation stages is it organized around within the innovation pipeline and how does it link to other innovation actors?.
Remembering Ɔkomfo Kwabena: ‘Motherhood’, Spirituality, and Queer Leadership in Ghana

Abstract This article examines how members of a community of queer men in Ghana known as Saso people remember one of their important leaders, ɔkomfo Kwabena. Based on ethnographic research in a town in the Central Region, I show how in drawing upon local Ghanaian cultural resources, including traditional leadership roles, indigenous religious practices, socially sanctioned practices of gender non-conformity, and a local practice of sexual initiation, ɔkomfo Kwabena sought to develop Saso people and provide spaces for the affirmation of queer sexuality as he challenged post-colonial discourses that mark queer sexuality as exogenous to and incompatible with Ghanaian and African identity and cultural traditions. Ɔkomfo Kwabena was referred to as the Nana Hemaa (queen mother) of this community, and he is remembered as someone who provided advice, guidance, and discipline, especially to those Saso people who he considered his ‘children’. The intellectual, emotional, and financial support he provided was facili...
Drain-Source Symmetric Artificial Neural Network-Based FET Model with Robust Extrapolation Beyond Training Data

A large-signal FET model based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) is extended for rigorous intrinsic drain-source symmetry and robust extrapolation beyond the range of training data. Enhanced ANN architectures and training algorithms constrain the five nonlinear model state functions to transform according to the discrete symmetry rules related to the device invariance with respect to intrinsic drain-source exchange. This extends the applicability of the previous ANN-based model to situations where the instantaneous voltage crosses Vds= 0, such as switches and mixers. The model is compiled in Agilent ADS, together with advanced extrapolation routines extending the model beyond the range of training data for improved convergence. The model has been generated for FETs from several III-V semiconductor processes, and validated with extensive independent small and large-signal measurements.
Comparing introductory financial accounting textbooks

Abstract This paper is designed to assist accounting faculty in selecting an introductory financial accounting textbook. Thirty-three introductory financial accounting textbooks with a 1995 or later publication date were reviewed. First, the paper compares the textbooks across a list of objective attributes. To ensure accuracy, the measurement of the attributes for each textbook was sent to the lead author of the textbook for his or her comment. Second, the paper compares the textbooks on readability of the introductory and long-term assets chapters using the computer-based program Grammatik, currently part of the WordPerfect word processing program. Third, the paper includes a statement of the philosophy or approach of each textbook. The lead author of each textbook was invited to write the statement for his or her textbook.
Effect of low-pressure oxygen on the creep properties of W-25 pct Re

The creep properties of W-25 pct Re were measured in low-pressure oxygen to simulate its interaction with oxygen derived from the decomposition of oxides at high temperatures. The results are compared with the creep properties of the alloy in a vacuum of 10−7 torr. Between 1650° and 2000°C and stresses of 1000 and 2000 psi, the creep rates were lower in 10−5 torr O2 than in vacuum by factors as high as 250; however, rupture strains were only 2 to 7 pct in the O2 environment. Specimens exposed to oxygen before creep testing in vacuum were also stronger than specimens tested in vacuum. The oxygen content of specimens tested in oxygen was generally lower than in the as-received material. The lower creep rates of W-25 pct Re in oxygen are attributed to the presence of a surface layer of σ phase. This reaction layer results from the formation of volatile tungsten oxides at a higher rate than rhenium oxides.
Nutritional Requirements in Parasitic Diseases

"Nutritional requirements" means different things in different contexts. Generally, the term refers to national or international standards or allowances of nutrients. Concern here involves the potential need for a change of standards where conditions of disease prevail, because disease increases the nutritional requirements of most individuals. "Nutritional requirements" may also be viewed in terms of food supplies. Analysis of a number of studies indicates that the average growth deficit due to endemic infectious diseases in early life is less than or equal to 20 kcal per day (calculated as 5 kcal/g of tissue). Increased weight gain following treatment of intestinal parasites such as Ascaris lumbricoides or Giardia lamblia provides similar estimates, as does measurement of energy and protein absorption. These values are within normal variance estimates. Sick children do not eat well and apparently do not eat enough on healthy days to correct for the accrued food deficit. Research on nutritional requirements of children needs to focus on management of food resources in entire families.
A robust two-dimensional separation for top-down tandem mass spectrometry of the low-mass proteome.

For fractionation of intact proteins by molecular weight (MW), a sharply improved two-dimensional (2D) separation is presented to drive reproducible and robust fractionation before top-down mass spectrometry of complex mixtures. The “GELFrEE” (i.e., gel-eluted liquid fraction entrapment electrophoresis) approach is implemented by use of Tris-glycine and Tris-tricine gel systems applied to human cytosolic and nuclear extracts from HeLa S3 cells, to achieve a MW-based fractionation of proteins from 5 to >100 kDa in 1 h. For top-down tandem mass spectroscopy (MS/MS) of the low-mass proteome (5–25 kDa), between 5 and 8 gel-elution (GE) fractions are sampled by nanocapillary-LC-MS/MS with 12 or 14.5 tesla Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FT-ICR) mass spectrometers. Single injections give about 40 detectable proteins, about half of which yield automated ProSight identifications. Reproducibility metrics of the system are presented, along with comparative analysis of protein targets in mitotic versus asynchronous cells. We forward this basic 2D approach to facilitate wider implementation of top-down mass spectrometry and a variety of other protein separation and/or characterization approaches.
CHANGES IN DISTANCE JUDGMENTS AS A FUNCTION OF CORRECTED AND NONCORRECTED PRACTICE.

Changes in distance bisections as a function of practice were studied, two practice variables being manipulated in a 2 × 3 factorial design. One was the feedback variable: correction vs noncorrection; the other was type of practice: fractionation, bisection with shifting angle of regard, and control (continued bisection practice under standard conditions). Learning effects were measured in terms of judgments made on a set of pretests and posttests, involving bisections of the training distance as well as two new distances, and size matches. Ss were 48 undergraduates. It was found that correction produced a largely ephemeral attenuation of the overconstancy bias which marked all judgments; its effects transferred only to a limited extent to the new distances, and not at all to the size judgments. Type of practice did not result in any significant effects. A non-perceptual, judgmental explanation for the changes produced, and the overconstancy bias itself, is suggested.
Metaplastic breast cancer: histologic characteristics, prognostic factors and systemic treatment strategies

Metaplastic breast cancer (MBC) is a rare subtype of invasive breast cancer that tends to have an aggressive clinical presentation as well as a variety of distinct histologic designations. Few systemic treatment options are available for MBC, as it has consistently shown a suboptimal response to standard chemotherapy regimens. These characteristics result in a worse overall prognosis for patients with MBC compared to those with standard invasive breast cancer. Due to its rarity, data focusing on MBC is limited. This review will discuss the clinical presentation, breast imaging findings, histologic and molecular characteristics of MBC as well as potential future research directions.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Generalized Vitiligo in an Isolated European Founder Population Identifies SMOC2, in Close Proximity to IDDM8

Generalized vitiligo is a common disorder in which patchy loss of skin and hair pigmentation principally appears to result from autoimmune loss of melanocytes from affected regions. We previously characterized a unique founder population in an isolated Romanian community with elevated prevalence of generalized vitiligo and other autoimmune diseases, including autoimmune thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and type I diabetes mellitus. Here, we describe a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of generalized vitiligo in 32 distantly related affected patients from this remote village and 50 healthy controls from surrounding villages. Vitiligo was significantly associated with single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a 30-kb LD block on chromosome 6q27, in close vicinity to IDDM8, a linkage and association signal for type I diabetes mellitus and rheumatoid arthritis. The region of association contains only one gene, SMOC2, within which SNP rs13208776 attained genome-wide significance for association with generalized vitiligo (P=8.51 × 10−8) at odds ratio 7.445 (95% confidence interval=3.56–15.53) for the high-risk allele and population attributable risk 28.00. SMOC2 encodes a modular extracellular calcium-binding glycoprotein of unknown function. Our findings indicate that SMOC2 is a risk locus for generalized vitiligo and perhaps other autoimmune diseases.