cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of chiral N,N′-disubstituted 1,2-benzenediamines from o-dibromobenzene

Abstract Palladium-catalyzed amination of o- dibromobenzene provided chiral N , N′- disubstituted 1,2-benzenediamines in good to excellent yields. The amination was executed stepwise and in one pot to give unsymmetrically and symmetrically substituted 1,2-benzenediamines. Incorporation of chiral primary amines was possible without racemization using catalytic Pd 2 dba 3 –BINAP.
Comparing direct model reference adaptive control with traditional feedback control in the area of damage mitigation

The incorporation of an active control system into an aerospace structure as part of a smart structure has raised the issue of: How does the controller respond when the structure is damaged? The answer is usually dependent on the answer to numerous other questions regarding the type of controller, the type of damage, the application of the smart structure, etc. However, previous research has indicated that the Direct Model Reference Adaptive Control (DMRAC) algorithm has potential in preventing the damaged smart structure from becoming unstable. Maintaining stability following an impact damage is of minimal usefulness if the controller can not also provide satisfactory performance before the damage event. This paper presents the simulation results of research comparing a velocity and position feedback controller with a DMRAC controller. The primary areas of concern were the undamaged performance (damping augmentation) and the damaged performance (stability and steady state response). The traditional controller design performed better before the damage occurred, but the DMRAC controller was significantly better after the damage occurred.
Formation of 2,2-Dichloro-1-Tetralones by Oxidative Free-Radical Annulation

Abstract Oxidative free-radical annulation of dichloroacetophenone (7) with terminal alkenes provides modest to good yields of 4-substituted 2,2-dichloro-l-tetralones (10). The synthetic utility and reactivity of 10a is described.
Controlled cortical impact model for traumatic brain injury

Every year over a million Americans suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Combined with the incidence of TBIs worldwide, the physical, emotional, social, and economical effects are staggering. Therefore, further research into the effects of TBI and effective treatments is necessary. The controlled cortical impact (CCI) model induces traumatic brain injuries ranging from mild to severe. This method uses a rigid impactor to deliver mechanical energy to an intact dura exposed following a craniectomy. Impact is made under precise parameters at a set velocity to achieve a pre-determined deformation depth. Although other TBI models, such as weight drop and fluid percussion, exist, CCI is more accurate, easier to control, and most importantly, produces traumatic brain injuries similar to those seen in humans. However, no TBI model is currently able to reproduce pathological changes identical to those seen in human patients. The CCI model allows investigation into the short-term and long-term effects of TBI, such as neuronal death, memory deficits, and cerebral edema, as well as potential therapeutic treatments for TBI.
The Kepler Light Curves of V1504 Cygni and V344 Lyrae: A Study of the Outburst Properties

We examine the Kepler light curves of V1504 Cyg and V344 Lyr, encompassing approximately 460 d at 1 min cadence. During this span each system exhibited approximately 40 outbursts, including four superoutbursts. We find that, in both systems, the normal outbursts lying between two superoutbursts increase in duration by a factor approximately 1.2 - 1.7, and then reset to a small value after the following superoutburst. In V344 Lyr the trend of quiescent intervals between normal outbursts is to increase to a local maximum about half way through the supercycle the interval from one superoutburst to the next - and then to decrease back to a small value by the time of the next superoutburst, whereas for V1504 Cyg the quiescent intervals are relatively constant during the supercycle. Both of these trends are inconsistent with the Osaki's thermal-tidal model, which robustly predicts a secular increase in the quiescent intervals between normal outbursts during a supercycle. Also, most of the normal outbursts have an asymmetric, fast-rise/slower-decline shape, which would be consistent with outbursts triggered at large radii. The exponential rate of decay of the plateau phase of the superoutbursts is 8 d mag(sup -1) for approximately 1504 Cyg and 12 d mag(sup -1) for V344 Lyr. This time scale gives a direct measure of the VISCOUS time scale III the outer accretion disk given the expectation that the entire disk is in the hot, viscous state during superoutburst. The resulting constraint on the Shakura-Sunyaev parameter, alpha(sub hot) approximately equal to 0.1, is consistent with the value inferred from the fast dwarf nova decays. By looking at the slow decay rate for superoutbursts, which occur in systems below the period gap, in combination with the slow decay rate in one long outburst above the period gap (in U Gem), we infer a steep dependence of the decay rate on orbital period for long outbursts. We argue that this relation implies a steep dependence of alpha(sub cold) on orbital period, which may be consistent with recent findings of Patterson, and is consistent with tidal torquing as being the dominant angular momentum transport mechanism in quiescent disks in interacting binary systems.
Dependence of impurity zero-phonon band thermal broadening and shift on impurity site and vibron level in organic crystals

Abstract Experimental results on the thermal broadening and shifts of impurity zero-phonon bands in some organic mixed crystals are reported and interpreted in terms of the electron-phonon interaction. Attention is focused on the variation of the thermal broadening and line shift parameters with (1) impurity site in a system exhibiting several energetically different impurity sites and with (2) the vibron level in a given final electronic state of the impurity. Experiments were conducted over a temperature range which ensures that hot vibron transitions are negligible. Data from the 5600 A 1B1 ← 1A1 transition of 2-phenyl-l-monoazaazulene in p-terphenyl show that the variations of the above parameters with impurity site are as large as the variations of the same between different chemical systems. No dependence of the thermal broadening parameters on the impurity vibron level is observed for the above system or the 7000 A 1B1 ← 1A1 transition of azulene in naphthalene. It is shown that, within the adiabatic (electron-nucleus) and harmonic approximations, the zero-phonon band spectral shape function arising from the electron-phonon interaction should be independent of the final vibron level of the impurity transition.
A New Synthesis of β-Keto Amides via Reaction of Ketone Lithium Enolates with Isocyanates

Abstract A series of s-ketoamides was prepared by a convenient new method involving addition of various isocyanates to the lithium enolates of acetophenone propiophenone and pinacolone.
Nitroxidergic innervation of human cerebral arteries

A dense network of nerves containing neuronal nitric oxide synthase is present in cerebral vessels from experimental animals. The nerves may regulate cerebrovascular tone, protect the brain from stroke, and contribute to cluster headaches in humans; but studies in humans have shown only modest nitroxidergic innervation of cerebral vessels. We tested the hypothesis that nerve fibers containing neuronal nitric oxide synthase richly innervate human cerebral arteries. We used immunohistochemical techniques at post mortem and found dense neuronal nitric oxide synthase nerve staining in human cerebral vessel walls consistent with participation of nitroxidergic fibers in human physiological and pathophysiological processes.
Return Predictability of Turkish Stocks: An Empirical Investigation

Employing the portfolio method and cross-sectional regressions, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of stock return predictability in Turkey from January 1997 to July 2011. In the risk-related predictors, we found predictive power for beta, total volatility, and idiosyncratic volatility. The "cheapness" variable, book-to-market ratio, is the most important return predictor for the stocks traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange (now part of the Borsa Istanbul). Grouping the stocks as small and large according to the median value of the market capitalization of the stocks adds important insights to the analysis. Our results show the set of large stocks on the Istanbul Stock Exchange to be the least predictable set of stocks.
Comparison of some control strategies for three-compartment PK/PD models

In drug therapy, effective dosage strategies are needed to maintain target drug effects. The relationship between drug dose and drug effect is often described by pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) models where typically the PK model has a multicompartment form and the PD model is the sigmoidal Emax model. The parameters in the PK/PD model are generally unknown in the individual patient, although prior knowledge may be available and can be updated after measurements of drug effect are taken during the therapy. This fact, together with the complexity of the PK/PD model, makes the control problem complex. This paper investigates several control strategies in the framework of a three-compartment PK model plus an effect site with a PD model. Using computer simulations under different assumptions, we show that a MAP (maximum a posteriori) Bayesian type of strategy is effective, nevertheless in high-risk situations a stochastic control strategy hedging against estimation errors provides better performance at computational cost.
Theoretical Approaches to the Rheology of Concentrated Dispersions

Suspensions of submicron particles in a liquid respond to flow in a variety of ways depending on the size, concentration, and shape of the particles and the nature and magnitude of the interparticle potentials. The most dramatic phenomena occur when one of the interparticle forces dominates, e.g., strong van der Waals forces for aqueous latices at high ionic strengths1 or carbon black particles in mineral oil2, long range electrostatic repulsions for colloidal crystals3,4, and the interactions between adsorbed polymer layers in sterically stabilized suspensions near closest packing5,6. Even with hard sphere interactions though, the rheology is significantly shear-thinning at moderate concentrations7,8. In each case the non-Newtonian phenomena, whether elastic or pseudoplastic, derive from many-body interactions involving both hydrodynamic and interparticle forces.
Photoreactions of coordinated nitrite ion. Reversible nitric oxide labilization from the chromium(III) complex [trans-Cr(cyclam)(ONO)2]+

Abstract An overview of the observed and likely photochemistry of transition metal nitrito compounds is presented with particular attention to the potential of using such nitrite ion complexes as the photochemical source for nitric oxide delivery to biological targets. In this context, recent studies at Santa Barbara regarding the photoreactions of the chromium(III) complex trans -Cr(cyclam)(ONO) 2 + (cyclam=1,4,8,11 tetraazacyclo-tetradecane) to give NO plus Cr(IV) (and subsequently Cr(V) complexes in the presence of dioxygen) are described.
REDUCTIVE DECHLORINATION OF CHLORINATED AROMATICS

Abstract A practical method has been found for the reduction of PCB's and chlorinated benzenes in a nonpolar solvent with formic acid, water, Pd/C and sodium carbonate. This reductive dechlorination can be run under atmospheric pressure and relatively mild conditions.
Demand for Public Transport in Germany and the USA: An Analysis of Rider Characteristics

This paper first provides a brief review of trends in public transport demand from 1980 to 2010 in 16 countries in Europe, North America, and Australia. The focus, however, is on a detailed analysis of public transport demand in Germany and the USA, using uniquely comparable national travel surveys from 2001/2002 and 2008/2009 for both countries. Public transport has been far more successful in Germany than in the USA, with much greater growth in overall passenger volumes and trips per capita. Even controlling for differences between the countries in demographics, socio-economics, and land use, logistic regressions show that Germans are five times as likely as Americans to use public transport. Moreover, public transport in Germany attracts a much broader cross-section of society and for a greater diversity of trip purposes. The success of German public transport is due to a coordinated package of mutually supportive policies that include the following: (1) more and better service, (2) attractive fares and convenient ticketing, (3) full multimodal and regional integration, (4) high taxes and restrictions on car use, and (5) land-use policies that promote compact, mixed-use developments. It is the integrated package of complementary policies that explains why public transport in Germany can compete so well with the private car, even among affluent households. Conversely, it is the lack of complementary policies that explains the continuing struggle of public transport in the USA.
Nucleosynthesis in the Oxygen-rich Supernova Remnant G292.0+1.8 from Chandra X-Ray Spectroscopy

We continue our analysis of the Galactic oxygen-rich supernova remnant (SNR) G292.0+1.8, which was observed with the Chandra X-Ray Observatory. The high angular resolution Chandra data resolve metal-rich ejecta knots as well as the shocked circumstellar medium. X-ray emission from the ejecta material in G292.0+1.8 is dominated by highly ionized O, Ne, and Mg. Measured abundance ratios suggest that this material was produced during the hydrostatic evolution of the massive progenitor star. In contrast to Cassiopeia A, there is little evidence for X-ray-emitting ejecta from explosive nucleosynthesis, i.e., material enriched in Si, S, and particularly, Fe. This limits the amount of mixing or overturning of deep ejecta material in G292.0+1.8 and suggests that the ejecta are strongly stratified by composition and that the reverse shock has not propagated to the Si/S- or Fe-rich zones. On the other hand, the bright equatorial belt is dominated by X-ray emission with normal chemical composition, which supports shocked dense circumstellar material for its origin. We find that the thermal pressure in the SNR is much higher than the pressure in the pulsar wind nebula (PWN), indicating that the reverse shock has not yet begun to interact with the PWN.
A Comparative Study of the Absolute Magnitude Distributions of Supernovae

The Asiago Supernova Catalog is used to carry out a comparative study of supernova absolute magnitude distributions. An overview of the absolute magnitudes of the supernovae in the current observational sample is presented, and the evidence for subluminous and overluminous events is examined. The fraction of supernovae that are subluminous (MB > -15) appears to be higher (perhaps much higher) than but it remains very uncertain. The fraction that are overluminous (MB > -20) is lower (probably much lower) than 0.01. The absolute magnitude distributions for each supernova type, restricted to events within 1 Gpc, are compared. Although these distributions are affected by observational bias in favor of the more luminous events, they are useful for comparative studies. We find mean absolute blue magnitudes (for H0 = 60) of -19.46 for normal Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia), -18.04 for SNe Ibc, -17.61 and -20.26 for normal and bright SNe Ibc considered separately, -18.03 for SNe II-L, -17.56 and -19.27 for normal and bright SNe II-L considered separately, -17.00 for SNe II-P, and -19.15 for SNe IIn.
Pyridones as Potential Antitumor Agents

Based on the finding that 3-acetoxy-2-pyridone had reproducible activity against murine P-388 lymphocytic leukemia, derivatives in this series were synthesized and evaluated to determine structural parameters important for activity. Of the 32 compounds tested, 10 were active. At least two oxygen-containing functional groups are required for P-388 activity, and the 2,3-isomeric arrangement provides the greatest activity. Carbamate or acyloxy groups in the 3-position produced the most active 2-pyridones.
Optimal Spectrum Management in Multiuser Interference Channels

In this paper, we study the problem of continuous frequency optimal spectrum management in multiuser frequency selective interference channels. We assume that interference is treated as noise by the decoders, and separate encoding is applied. First, a simple pair-wise channel condition for frequency division multiple access schemes to achieve all Pareto optimal points of the rate region is derived. It enables fully distributed global optimal decision making on whether any two users should use orthogonal channels. Next, we present an analytical solution to finding the maximum sum-rate in two-user symmetric frequency flat channels. Generalizing this solution to frequency selective channels, a convex optimization is established that yields the global optimum. Finally, we show that our method generalizes to K-user (K ≥ 2) weighted sum-rate maximization in asymmetric frequency selective channels, and we transform this classic nonconvex optimization to an equivalent convex optimization in the primal domain.
Streamline: a scheduling heuristic for streaming applications on the grid

Scheduling a streaming application on high-performance computing (HPC) resources has to be sensitive to the computation and communication needs of each stage of the application dataflow graph to ensure QoS criteria such as latency and throughput. Since the grid has evolved out of traditional high-performance computing, the tools available for scheduling are more appropriate for batch-oriented applications. Our scheduler, called Streamline, considers the dynamic nature of the grid and runs periodically to adapt scheduling decisions using application requirements (per-stage computation and communication needs), application constraints (such as co-location of stages), and resource availability. The performance of Streamline is compared with an Optimal placement, Simulated Annealing (SA) approximations, and E-Condor, a streaming grid scheduler built using Condor. For kernels of streaming applications, we show that Streamline performs close to the Optimal and SA algorithms, and an order of magnitude better than E-Condor under non-uniform load conditions. We also conduct scalability studies showing the advantage of Streamline over other approaches.
Efficient stereocontrolled synthesis of the ABC subunit of dumsin

Abstract The oxygenated ABC network of the potent insect antifeedant dumsin has been expediently assembled in a totally stereocontrolled manner by exploiting the acylation of a lactone carbonyl with a masked keto anion equivalent.
Forced Development and Urban Land Prices

This paper examines the distortions in property markets resulting from government actions to alleviate externalities associated with vacant lots. Using an equilibrium based real option model, the analysis indicates that announcement of a program of forced development may actually delay market-based development. By incorporating externalities associated with vacant lots into the model, the analysis indicates that owners of neighboring developed property benefit suggesting such programs will be politically popular.
Perceptually-supported image editing of text and graphics

This extended abstract reprises our UIST '03 paper on "Perceptually-Supported Image Editing of Text and Graphics." We introduce a novel image editing program, called ScanScribe, that emphasizes easy selection and manipulation of material found in informal, casual documents such as sketches, handwritten notes, whiteboard images, screen snapshots, and scanned documents.
Palliative care for patients with advanced lung cancer

e19610 Background: This National Cancer Institute funded Program Project (P01) is an interdisciplinary research project focused on palliative care, quality of life (QOL), and symptom control in lun...
First order change in hyperfine interaction at the Verwey transition in magnetite

Abstract A Mossbauer investigation of powered magnetite, Fe 3(1−δ) O 4 , of controlled metal-to-oxygen ratio indicates a sudden change in spectra at the Verwey transition for closely stoichiometric samples ( δ = 0), and a gradual alteration in spectra near the Verwey transition for highly cation-deficient samples ( δ = 0.01). These observations correspond to recent calorimetric and electrical measurements which show that for δ ⩽ 0.004 or δ #62; 0.004 magnetite undergoes a first or higher order transition.
First application of an efficient and versatile ligand for copper-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions of vinyl halides with N-heterocycles and phenols.

2-Pyridin-2-yl-1H-benzoimidazole L3 is presented as a new, efficient, and versatile bidentate N-donor ligand suitable for the copper-catalyzed formation of vinyl C−N and C−O bonds. This inexpensive and easily prepared ligand facilitates copper-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions of alkenyl bromides and iodides with N-heterocycles and phenols to afford the desired cross-coupled products in good to excellent yields with full retention of stereochemistry. This method is particularly noteworthy given its efficiency, that is, mild reaction conditions, low catalyst loading, simplicity, versatility, and exceptional level of functional group tolerance.
Semiconductor-Based Composite Materials: Preparation, Properties, and Performance

A diverse array of semiconductor-based composite materials have been prepared, characterized, and utilized in many applications ranging from photocatalysis, photovoltaic cells, photoelectrochromic displays, and light-emitting devices to sensors. The composite architectures (nanoarchitectures in many cases) are equally diverse. In this review, we highlight the advances that have been made and identify some of the gaps in our current knowledge of these materials. Size quantization effects and semiconductor quantum dots are also discussed.
Four-dimensional higher-derivative supergravity and spontaneous supersymmetry breaking

Abstract We construct two classes of higher-derivative supergravity theories generalizing Einstein supergravity. We explore their dynamical content as well as their vacuum structure. The first class is found to be equivalent to Einstein supergravity coupled to a single chiral superfield. It has a unique stable vacuum solution except in a special case, when it becomes identical to a simple no-scale theory. The second class is found to be equivalent to Einstein supergravity coupled to two chiral superfields and has a richer vacuum structure. It is demonstrated that theories of the second class can possess a stable vacuum with vanishing cosmological constant that spontaneously breaks supersymmetry. We present an explicit example of this phenomenon and compare the result with the Polonyi model.
A highly regio- and chemoselective synthesis of vicinal bromohydrins by ring opening of terminal epoxides with dibromoborane–dimethyl sulfide

Abstract Dibromoborane–dimethyl sulfide (BHBr 2 –SMe 2 ) displays high degrees of chemo- and regioselectivity during the brominative cleavage of the epoxy group into vicinal bromohydrins in the presence of alkene, alkyne, allene, ether, acetal and acetonide, besides its hydroborating ability. Several reducible functional groups, such as chloride, aldehyde, ketone, azide, ester, nitrile and tert -amino ester, have been successfully accommodated during the epoxide opening process.
Modeling strategic group dynamics: A hidden Markov approach

With competition playing a critical role in market-based strategic planning and implementation, identifying and understanding competiton and competitive dynamics has become critical. In this vein, the strategic groups perspective has emerged as a powerful means to understand such competitive phenomena. Empirical approaches to model competitive dynamics within the strategic groups framework, however, have been piece meal as researchers typically resort to distinct sequential analysis by time period. To overcome the limitations of these simplistic approaches, we develop a hidden Markov model to study strategic group (competitive) dynamics. In this approach, we explicitly account for competitive dynamics over time by modeling strategic group memberships as latent states that follow a first-order Markov process. Thus, we explictly model the notion that firms adopt their strategy for the next time period based on their current strategy and respective outcomes. We illustrate the model with longitudinal data from COMPUSTAT on 63 public banks from the tri-state region of NY-OH-PA. The results show the proposed model to be superior to a number of viable alternative approaches that have been suggested in the literature. We find the existence of three strategic groups: the leveraged group has low current assets compared to current liabilities, high debt to equity, and high total borrowing to assets. The lending group consists of the largest banks that focus on lending with high ratios of gross loans to securities and gross loans to deposits. The balanced group has the largest number of banks where the values of the financial and product ratios are intermediate compared to the leveraged and lending groups. The asymmetries in the switching probabilites are also evident as there seems to be a higher probability of switching into the balanced group than switching out of this group. The switching probabilites are symmetric between the the leveraged and lending groups.
Self-phase-modulation based low-noise, cavity-less short pulse source for photonic-assisted ADC

We demonstrate a high fidelity picosecond optical pulse source based on a cavity-less architecture. After nonlinear regeneration, low-noise pulse trains leading to 8.0 ENOBs at 3.6-GHz sampling rate was achieved in optical sampling.
Memory-Assisted Universal Source Coding

The problem of the universal compression of a sequence from a library of several small to moderate length sequences from similar context arises in many practical scenarios, such as the compression of the storage data and the Internet traffic. In such scenarios, it is often required to compress and decompress every sequence individually. However, the universal compression of the individual sequences suffers from significant redundancy overhead. In this paper, we aim at answering whether or not having a memory unit in the middle can result in a fundamental gain in the universal compression. We present the problem setup in the most basic scenario consisting of a server node $S$, a relay node $R$ (i.e., the memory unit), and a client node $C$. We assume that server $S$ wishes to send the sequence $x^n$ to the client $C$ who has never had any prior communication with the server, and hence, is not capable of memorization of the source context. However, $R$ has previously communicated with $S$ to forward previous sequences from $S$ to the clients other than $C$, and thus, $R$ has memorized a context $y^m$ shared with $S$. Note that if the relay node was absent the source could possibly apply universal compression to $x^n$ and transmit to $C$ whereas the presence of memorized context at $R$ can possibly reduce the communication overhead in $S$-$R$ link. In this paper, we investigate the fundamental gain of the context memorization in the memory-assisted universal compression of the sequence $x^n$ over conventional universal source coding by providing a lower bound on the gain of memory-assisted source coding.
Effect of coupling point selection on distortion in internet-distributed hardware-in-the-loop simulation

The degree to which an Internet-Distributed Hardware-In-the-Loop (ID-HIL) simulation loses fidelity relative to the single-location alternative is referred to as distortion. This paper shows that, besides delay, the choice of coupling point, i.e., the port at which the system model is integrated across the Internet, also affects distortion. To quantify distortion, a frequency-domain metric is proposed using a linear systems framework. This metric is then used to analyse how the choice of coupling point affects distortion, leading to guidelines for selecting a coupling point that gives minimal distortion. The theory is demonstrated on a quarter-car model.
Measurement methods and standards for processing and application of thermal barrier coatings

Application of thermal barrier coatings deposited by thermal spray, physical vapor and possibly other methods is expected to be extended from aircraft gas turbines to industrial and utility gas turbines as well as diesel engines. This increased usage implies the participation of greater numbers of processors and us-ers, making the availability of standards for process control and property measurement more important. In this paper, available standards specifically for processing and evaluation of thermal barrier coatings are identified as well as those generally applicable to coatings and those needed but unavailable.
Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication in an Instrument Ball-Bearing

The paper deals with experimental measurement of bearing torque and 'percentage of lubrication' in instrument size (R6) bearings. The primary parameter found to affect bearing performance for several lubricant investigations is base viscosity. Inference of EHD film thickness is made from the percentage of film measurements which are compared with X-ray data. A reasonable correlation between the two types of data is presented, thereby, paving the way toward the use of the more universally applicable percentage of film measurements for the determination of EHD conditions in real bearing systems.
Visceral fat is a negative predictor of bone density measures in obese adolescent girls.

Context: Regional fat is increasingly recognized as a determinant of bone mineral density (BMD), an association that may be mediated by adipokines, such as adiponectin and leptin, and inflammatory fat products. Chronic inflammation is deleterious to bone, and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) predicts inflammatory markers such as soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and E-selectin, whereas sc adipose tissue (SAT) and VAT predict IL-6 in adolescents. Objective: Our objective was to determine associations of regional fat mass and adipokines with BMD. We hypothesized that girls with greater VAT relative to SAT would have lower bone density mediated by inflammatory cytokines, adiponectin, and leptin. Design: This was a cross-sectional study. Setting: The study was conducted at a clinical research center. Subjects: Subjects included 30 girls (15 obese, 15 normal weight) 12–18 yr old, matched for maturity (bone age), race, and ethnicity. Outcome Measures: We assessed regional fat (SAT, VAT) using magnetic resonance imaging, total fat, and BMD using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Fasting leptin, adiponectin, IL-6, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and E-selectin were obtained. Results: Mean body mass index sd score was 3.7 ± 1.5 in obese subjects and 0.1 ± 0.4 kg/m2 in controls. VAT was a negative predictor of spine BMD and bone mineral apparent density, whole-body BMD and bone mineral content/height in obese girls and whole-body BMD and bone mineral content/height for the group as a whole after controlling for SAT, as was the ratio of VAT to SAT. In a regression model that included VAT/SAT, adipokines, and cytokines, E-selectin and adiponectin were negative predictors of BMD and leptin a positive predictor. Conclusion: VAT is an independent inverse determinant of bone density in obesity. This association may be mediated by adipokines and a chronic inflammatory state.
Laparoscopically assisted creation of a neovagina using the Louisville modification.

Objective To report a modification of the laparoscopic Davydov method for creation of a neovagina. Design Case study. Setting University gynecology practice. Patient(s) Female with vaginal agenesis. Intervention(s) Laparoscopically assisted creation of a neovagina using a modified technique to improve both structural and functional capacity. Main Outcome Measure(s) Patient morbidity and satisfaction. Result(s) The patient satisfactorily underwent creation of a neovagina using the laparoscopic modification of the Davydov technique via the Louisville method. Conclusion(s) This laparoscopic modification allows for structural maintenance and functional capacity without increasing postoperative morbidity.
Range corrections to doublet S-wave neutron–deuteron scattering

Abstract We calculate the range corrections to S-wave neutron–deuteron scattering in the doublet channel ( S =1/2) to first order in r / a where a is the scattering length and r the effective range. Ultraviolet divergences appearing at this order can be absorbed into a redefinition of the leading order three-body force. The corrections to the elastic scattering amplitude below the deuteron breakup threshold are computed. Inclusion of the range corrections gives good agreement with measured scattering data and potential model calculations.
Vein wall remodeling after deep vein thrombosis involves matrix metalloproteinases and late fibrosis in a mouse model

Hypothesis Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) confers vein wall injury associated with fibrosis and extracellular matrix (ECM) turnover, likely mediated by matrix proteases. This study investigated the expression of proteases and collagen involved in early vein wall remodeling. Methods In the mouse, DVT was produced by ligation of the infrarenal inferior vena cava (IVC) or sham operation, and tissue was harvested at 4, 8, and 12 days. The vein wall tissue was processed for real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (6 to 8 per time point), Western immunoblotting (5 per time point), and gelatin zymography (5 per time point). Analysis of variance was used for multiple comparisons, and a P Results Thrombus resolution was documented by a 38% decrease in the thrombosed IVC weight from day 4 to day 12 ( P = .007). Total vein wall collagen increased over time, with a corresponding increase in procollagen I and III, and expression peaked at 12 days (24-fold and 6.1-fold, respectively, P P P P P Conclusions Vein wall remodeling after DVT is similar to wound healing and is associated with increased procollagen gene expression and total collagen. It is also associated with increased early MMP-9 expression, followed by MMP-2 expression and activity after DVT resolution. Clinical Relevance Deep vein thrombosis is an often neglected problem that long term is associated with the postphlebitic syndrome of limb swelling, pain, and often ulceration. The basic mechanisms of the vein wall damage that results have not been delineated. The following study describes the vein wall matrix metalloproteinase gene and activity response induced over time in the vein wall after DVT. Additionally, the corresponding collagen upregulation and proximate plasmin system mediators are determined. With this knowledge, potential therapies to reduce vein wall injury directly might be possible.
The complexity of optimization problems

We study computational complexity theory and define a class of optimization problems called OptP (Optimization Polynomial Time), and we show that TRAVELLING SALESPERSON, KNAPSACK and 0-1 INTEGER LINEAR PROGRAMMING are complete for OptP. OptP is a natural generalization of NP (Nondeterministic Polynomial Time), but while NP only considers problems at the level of their yes/no question, the value of an OptP function is the optimal value of the problem. This approach enables us to show a deeper level of structure in these problems than is possible in NP. OptP is a subset of FPSAT, the class of functions computable in polynomial time with an oracle for NP. Our central result is that any FPSAT function decomposes into an OptP function followed by polynomial-time computation. The significance of this result is that it quantifies "how much" NP-completeness is in a problem, i.e., the number of NP queries it takes to compute the function. It also allows us to unify the classes NP, DP and DELTA-2 in a natural way. For example, we prove that an OptP-completeness result implies, as corollaries, NP-, DP- and DELTA-2- completeness results. We also prove separation results on subclasses of FPSAT by restricting the number of calls to the NP oracle. For example, TRAVELLING SALESPERSON is complete for O(n) queries, CLIQUE is complete for O(log n) queries and BIN PACKING can be solved in O(log log n) queries. We prove these classes distinct under the assumption that P does not equal NP. Finally, we consider generalizations of OptP to higher levels in the Polynomial-Time Hierarchy. We define the DOUBLE KNAPSACK problem and prove that it is complete for DELTA-3, the first example of a natural complete problem for this class, and the highest level in the Polynomial Hierarchy with a known natural complete problem.
Early experience with Mesa

The experiences of Mesa's first users—primarily its implementers—are discussed, and some implications for Mesa and similar programming languages are suggested. The specific topics addressed are: module structure and its use in defining abstractions, data-structuring facilities in Mesa, an equivalence algorithm for types and type coercions, the benefits of the type system and why it is breached occasionally, and the difficulty of making the treatment of variant records safe.
The effect of normal load on polytetrafluoroethylene tribology.

The tribological behavior of oriented poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) sliding surfaces is examined as a function of sliding direction and applied normal load in classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The forces are calculated with the second-generation reactive empirical bond-order potential for short-range interactions, and with a Lennard-Jones potential for long-range interactions. The range of applied normal loads considered is 5–30 nN. The displacement of interfacial atoms from their initial positions during sliding is found to vary by a factor of seven, depending on the relative orientation of the sliding chains. However, within each sliding configuration the magnitude of the interfacial atomic displacements exhibits little dependence on load over the range considered. The predicted friction coefficients are also found to vary with chain orientation and are in excellent quantitative agreement with experimental measurements.
Heavy quarks and lattice QCD

This paper is a review of heavy quarks in lattice gauge theory, focusing on methodology. It includes a status report on some of the calculations that are relevant to heavy-quark spectroscopy and to flavor physics.
Measuring the Information Content of the Beige Book: A Mixed Data Sampling Approach

Studies of the predictive ability of the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book for aggregate output and employment have proven inconclusive. This might be attributed, in part, to its irregular release schedule. We use a model that allows for data sampling at mixed frequencies to analyze the predictive power of the Beige Book. We find that the Beige Book’s national summary and District reports predict GDP and aggregate employment and that most District reports provide information content for regional employment. In addition, there appears to be an asymmetry in the predictive content of the Beige Book language.
Peptide nucleic acids as agents to modify target gene expression and function

PNA binding-induced transcription to stimulate target gene expression provides an attractive strategy to modify expression of selected genes. This technology could have a broad range of applications including the treatment of many human diseases by inducing expression of therapeutically important genes. PNA binding-induced transcription may also provide a powerful method to study the molecular mechanism of transcription initiation and gene expression regulation. However, the molecular mechanisms of PNA binding-induced transcription need to be elucidated to provide a better understanding of the molecular basis of this important technology. The same is true for the ability of PNA clamps to provoke DNA repair and induce mutagenesis. As these technical issues are resolved, the applications of PNA technology in the treatment of human diseases may become feasible.
Those crazy transaction costs: on the irrelevance of the equivalence between monetary damages and specific performance

The Coase theorem tells us that monetary damages and specific performance remedies for breach of contract have identical effects when transaction costs are zero. This has become a standard part of the literature on the economics of contract law. This note argues that the traditional view is somewhat misguided, as monetary damages and specific performance remedies are unnecessary in a zero transaction costs world. We go on to show how the presence of transaction costs impact the decisions of contracting parties as between the inclusion of liquidated damages clauses in contracts and resorting to litigation that could result in the application of either monetary damages or specific performance remedies.
Modeling and Analysis of Acoustic Emission in Diamond Turning

To estimate the acoustic emission (AE) energy released in diamond turning, a quantitative model, which contains the energy from primary, secondary, tertiary cutting zones and the rubbing zones, is proposed and compared with experimental data. The purpose of this model is to assist in process characterization and monitoring. As part of the model developed here the plowing energy, that is, the energy released in the tertiary zone, is approximated by the forming load in the rolling process where the roller is stationary. This load is theoretically calculated by the upper bound method and used in the estimation. A series of diamond turning tests were conducted to check the validity of the model. It was found that the energy content of the AE signal is close to the theoretical predictions. The spectral analysis of the AE signal in these tests is also carried out. It was noticed that when the diamond tool first touches the workpiece without producing any chip, more high frequency components were observed and this stage was recognized as the rubbing stage. The results further support the previous findings, that is, that abnormal rubbing always increases the mean frequency of the raw AE signal.
A framework for games literacy and understanding games

Based on research that studied the challenges and difficulties faced by students taking games studies and game design courses, we propose that, while many students enrolled in games education programs are adept at playing games, they are usually neither games literate nor do they have a deep understanding of games. In this article we provide a framework that can be used to evaluate and assess games literacy. Using Gee's notion of literacy, we propose that a deep understanding of games involves having the ability to explain, discuss, describe, frame, situate, interpret, and/or position games (1) in the context of human culture (games as a cultural artifacts), (2) in the context of other games, (3) in the context of the technological platform on which they are executed, (4) and by deconstructing them and understanding their components, how they interact, and how they facilitate certain experiences in players. We describe each of these aspects and also discuss two educational lenses that can be used to help contextualize what it means to understand and learn about games as well as support games literacy in students.
Stock Splits and Liquidity: The Case of the Nasdaq-100 Index Tracking Stock

In an attempt to disentangle the signaling effect from the liquidity effect of stock splits, I examine the liquidity changes following the two-for-one split of the Nasdaq-100 Index Tracking Stock. Since there can be no signaling with an index stock split, any difference between pre- and postsplit trading may be driven by liquidity but not signaling effects. I find that though the postsplit relative bid-ask spread is higher and daily turnover is unchanged, the frequency, share volume, and dollar-volume of small trades all increased after the split, indicating that the split improved liquidity for small trade-sizes.
Equilibrium in Production and Futures Markets

Abstract This paper develops a general equilibrium analysis of production and futures markets with free entry/exit. It does so by analyzing partial equilibria with a reference utility level and entry/exit, first in a product market and then in a futures market. The markets are then considered jointly. Comparative statics results arise due to a mismatch between the source of disequilibrium and the compensation mechanism which restores reference utility. Risk aversion is a sufficient structure on preferences to determine most of the results. However, the well-known separation result is modified somewhat in the two-market model.
Magnetism in nonequilibrium phases of transition metals

Local spin‐density theory and the linear combination of Gaussian orbitals method are employed to compute the band structure and ferromagnetic moment of nonequilibrium phases of several transition metals. The calculations are used to investigate possible magnetic order in these nonequilibrium phases, which include bcc and fcc Mn in a wide range of lattice constant, and bcc Nb and fcc Rh in regions of expanded lattice constant. The ferromagnetic moment calculations reveal transitions from nonmagnetic to ferromagnetic states and/or transitions from low‐spin to high‐spin ferromagnetic states as the lattice constant increases. In the case of bcc Mn, fcc Mn, and bcc Nb, large ferromagnetic moments are found in the expanded lattice constant region.
On maps between modular Jacobians and Jacobians of Shimura curves

Fix a squarefree integer N, divisible by an even number of primes, and let Γ′ be a congruence subgroup of level M, where M is prime to N. For each D dividing N and divisible by an even number of primes, the Shimura curve XD(Γ0(N/D) ∩ Γ′) associated to the indefinite quaternion algebra of discriminant D and Γ0(N/D) ∩ Γ′-level structure is well defined, and we can consider its Jacobian JD(Γ0(N/D) ∩ Γ′). Let JD denote the N/D-new subvariety of this Jacobian.
Swimming hydrodynamics: ten questions and the technical approaches needed to resolve them

Recent experimental and computational studies of swimming hydrodynamics have contributed significantly to our understanding of how animals swim, but much remains to be done. Ten questions are presented here as an avenue to discuss some of the arenas in which progress still is needed and as a means of considering the technical approaches to address these questions. 1. What is the three-dimensional structure of propulsive surfaces? 2. How do propulsive surfaces move in three dimensions? 3. What are the hydrodynamic effects of propulsor deformation during locomotion? 4. How are locomotor kinematics and dynamics altered during unsteady conditions? 5. What is the three-dimensional structure of aquatic animal vortex wakes? 6. To what extent are observed propulsor deformations actively controlled? 7. What is the response of the body and fins of moving animals to external perturbations? 8. How can robotic models help us understand locomotor dynamics of organisms? 9. How do propulsive surfaces interact hydrodynamically during natural motions? 10. What new computational approaches are needed to better understand locomotor hydrodynamics? These ten questions point, not exclusively, toward areas in which progress would greatly enhance our understanding of the hydrodynamics of swimming organisms, and in which the application of new technology will allow continued progress toward understanding the interaction between organisms and the aquatic medium in which they live and move.
Why do chronic venous leg ulcers not heal

Chronic venous leg ulcers account for the majority of lower extremity ulcers and represent a serious health and financial burden. Although several clinical practice guidelines and systematic reviews are available to guide treatment decisions, healing rates have not improved over the last decade. This research study illustrates some of the limitations of relying on existing databases to guide wound management as well as the importance of considering patient preferences, staff knowledge and skill, and available resources.