cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the ablated flux characteristics during pulsed laser ablation deposition of multicomponent oxides

The ablated flux characteristics of PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 (PZT), La0.5Sr0.5CoO3 (LSC), and MgO ceramic targets have been studied as functions of the ablation time, the ablation energy, and the chamber gas pressure. The time dependence of the ablation rate shows an initial exponential decay, reaching a steady‐state value at longer times. The energy dependence of the ablation rate (in vacuum) reveals a distinct ablation threshold energy for MgO ablation, while for PZT and LSC no ablation threshold is evident. The differences in the ablation characteristics of these materials are explained mainly by differences in their melting points, thermal conductivities, and absorption coefficients. Upon adding O2 gas, a visual change in the color and shape of the PZT ablation plume is evident. The color change indicates a gas phase reaction of the ablated species with the O2 gas, while the shape change implies a change in the angular distribution of the ablated species. We have measured a narrowing of the ablated flux distr...
The theory of storms: Jacob Burckhardt and the concept of ‘historical crisis’:

This paper looks at the role of the ‘historical crisis’ in Jacob Burckhardt’s theory of history. By examining how Burckhardt praised the ‘crisis’ for the ways in which it could accelerate historical processes, the paper challenges interpretations of his work that focus exclusively on its synchronic elements. It also examines the relationship of his theories of the crisis to his views on warfare and on how large-scale wars could serve to speed up historical development. Ultimately, this paper seeks to challenge the easy categorization of Burckhardt as either a conservative or a liberal thinker by suggesting that his work channelled the rhetoric of both his radical and his reactionary intellectual contemporaries.
On dispersion of modulo lattice additive noise channels

Modulo lattice additive noise (MLAN) channels appear in the analysis of structured lattice codes with lattice decoding for Costa's dirty-paper channel and the additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel. Building on the recent result on the optimal density of an infinite constellation over an AWGN channel, in this paper, it is shown that with a proper choice of the shaping lattice and the scaling parameter, the dispersion of the MLAN channel is asymptotically the same as that of the (zero-interference) AWGN channel at the same signal-to-noise ratio.
Generating transition probabilities to support model-based software testing

Markov chain usage models support test planning, test automation, and analysis of test results. In practice, transition probabilities for Markov chain usage models are often specified using a cycle of assigning, verifying, and revising specific values for individual transition probabilities. For large systems, such an approach can be difficult for a variety of reasons. We describe an improved approach that represents transition probabilities by explicitly preserving the information concerning test objectives and the relationships between transition probabilities in a format that is easy to maintain and easy to analyze. Using mathematical programming, transition probabilities are automatically generated to satisfy test management objectives and constraints. A more mathematical treatment of this approach is given in References [1] (Poore JH, Walton GH, Whittaker JA. A constraint-based approach to the representation of software usage models. Information and SoftwareTechnology 2000; at press) and [2] (Walton GH. Generating transition probabilities for Markov chain usage models. PhD Thesis, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, May 1995.). In contrast, this paper is targeted at the software engineering practitioner, software development manager, and test manager. This paper also adds to the published literature on Markov chain usage modeling and model-based testing by describing and illustrating an iterative process for usage model development and optimization and by providing some recommendations for embedding model-based testing activities within an incremental development process. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Connectivity supporting attention in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Intra-subject variability (ISV) is the most consistent behavioral deficit in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ISV may be associated with networks involved in sustaining task control (cingulo-opercular network: CON) and self-reflective lapses of attention (default mode network: DMN). The current study examined whether connectivity supporting attentional control is atypical in children with ADHD. Group differences in full-brain connection strength and brain–behavior associations with attentional control measures were examined for the late-developing CON and DMN in 50 children with ADHD and 50 typically-developing (TD) controls (ages 8–12 years). Children with ADHD had hyper-connectivity both within the CON and within the DMN. Full-brain behavioral associations were found for a number of between-network connections. Across both groups, more anti-correlation between DMN and occipital cortex supported better attentional control. However, in the TD group, this brain–behavior association was stronger and occurred for a more extensive set of DMN–occipital connections. Differential support for attentional control between the two groups occurred with a number of CON–DMN connections. For all CON–DMN connections identified, increased between-network anti-correlation was associated with better attentional control for the ADHD group, but worse attentional control in the TD group. A number of between-network connections with the medial frontal cortex, in particular, showed this relationship. Follow-up analyses revealed that these associations were specific to attentional control and were not due to individual differences in working memory, IQ, motor control, age, or scan motion. While CON–DMN anti-correlation is associated with improved attention in ADHD, other circuitry supports improved attention in TD children. Greater CON–DMN anti-correlation supported better attentional control in children with ADHD, but worse attentional control in TD children. On the other hand, greater DMN–occipital anti-correlation supported better attentional control in TD children.
Nutritional Value and Feed Acceptability

Abstract AN “inherent wisdom” of animals which enables them to select a nutritionally optimum diet is commonly proposed. Specific appetites are accepted scientific phenomena; an example is the salt hunger that accompanies adrenal insufficiency. Kare and Medway (1959) observed that the sugar, xylose, which has toxic properties was rejected by the fowl. On the other hand, Halpern et al. (1961) observed that non-essential amino acid solutions were preferred by rats in a two-choice situation while essential acids were rejected. An experiment was conducted to determine if some feed materials commonly described as offensive to the fowl are in fact so. The experiment was designed to obtain information only on the gross nature of acceptance or rejection of the feedstuffs under investigation, since the role of taste was blended if not overshadowed by unmeasured factors such as shape, color, texture or combination of these effects with the other ingredients present. A further …
Brain SPECT with short focal-length cone-beam collimation

Single-photon emission-computed tomography (SPECT) imaging of deep brain structures is compromised by loss of photons due to attenuation. We have previously shown that a centrally peaked collimator sensitivity function can compensate for this phenomenon, increasing sensitivity over most of the brain. For dual-head instruments, parallel-hole collimators cannot provide variable sensitivity without simultaneously degrading spatial resolution near the center of the brain; this suggests the use of converging collimators. We have designed collimator pairs for dual-head SPECT systems to increase sensitivity, particularly in the center of the brain, and compared the new collimation approach to existing approaches on the basis of performance in estimating activity concentration of small structures at various locations in the brain. The collimator pairs we evaluated included a cone-beam collimator, for increased sensitivity, and a fan-beam collimator, for data sufficiency. We calculated projections of an ellipsoidal uniform background, with 0.9-cm-radius spherical lesions at several locations in the background. From these, we determined ideal signal-to-noise ratios (SNRCRB) for estimation of activity concentration within the spheres, based on the Cramer-Rao lower bound on variance. We also reconstructed, by an ordered-subset expectation-maximization (OS-EM) procedure, images of this phantom, as well as of the Zubal brain phantom, to allow visual assessment and to ensure that they were free of artifacts. The best of the collimator pairs evaluated comprised a cone-beam collimator with 20 cm focal length, for which the focal point is inside the brain, and a fan-beam collimator with 40 cm focal length. This pair yielded increased SNRCRB, compared to the parallel-parallel pair, throughout the imaging volume. The factor by which SNRCRB increased ranged from 1.1 at the most axially extreme location to 3.5 at the center. The gains in SNRCRB were relatively robust to mismatches between the center of the brain and the center of the imaging volume. Artifact-free reconstructions of simulated data acquired using this pair were obtained. Combining fan-beam and short-focusing cone-beam collimation should greatly improve dual-head brain SPECT imaging, especially for centrally located structures.
Retrieval of vegetation equivalent water thickness from reflectance using genetic algorithm (GA)-partial least squares (PLS) regression

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the performance of genetic algorithms coupled with partial least squares (GA-PLS) modeling of spectral reflectance in retrieving equivalent water thickness (EWT) at leaf and canopy level. A genetic algorithm was used to identify a subset of spectral bands sensitive to the variation in EWT, and PLS was then applied to relate the identified bands to EWT values. GA-PLS was applied to leaf level reflectance available from LOPEX dataset, and canopy data includes reflectance simulated by a leaf radiative transfer model PROSPECT and a canopy radiative transfer model SAILH and acquired by airborne visible/infrared imaging spectrometer (AVIRIS). The results indicate that GA-PLS has the capability of retrieving EWT from leaf and canopy reflectance, and achieved good estimation accuracy, i.e. low root mean square errors (RMSE) and high squared correlation coefficients (R2). For the retrieval at leaf level, the estimation accuracy can be as good as RMSE = 0.0019 g/cm2 and R2 = 0.939 or better. For the retrieval at canopy level, the model accuracy is RMSE = 0.0061 g/cm2 and R2 = 0.966 or better when PROSPECT-SAILH simulated reflectance was used; when AVIRIS image spectra were used, the model accuracy is RMSE = 0.0094 g/cm2 and R2 = 0.8734 for the calibration, and RMSE = 0.0132 g/cm2 and R2 = 0.7756 for the validation. These results from GA-PLS modeling support the conclusion that GA-PLS has the potential to be applied to AVIRIS, Hyperion and HyMap imagery for retrieving EWT. The selected bands for the AVIRIS datasets differ from those for the LOPEX and PROSPECT-SAILH simulated datasets, and this inconsistence of the selected bands for different datasets indicates that the GA-PLS method has the advantage of tuning the optimum bands for PLS regression and accommodating the effects of confounding factors.
Public health paternalism and "expenditure harm".

A commentary on “Making the Case for Health-Enhancing Laws after Bloomberg,” in the January-February 2014issue.
Correlation of serum brain natriuretic peptide with hyponatremia and delayed ischemic neurological deficits after subarachnoid hemorrhage.

OBJECTIVE Serum brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is elevated after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), causes diuresis and natriuresis (cerebral salt wasting), and may exacerbate delayed ischemic neurological deficits. We examined the temporal relationship between serum BNP elevation, hyponatremia, and the onset of delayed ischemic neurological deficits and determined whether serum BNP levels correlated with the 2-week outcome after SAH. METHODS Serum BNP and sodium were measured prospectively every 12 hours for 14 days in 40 consecutive patients admitted with SAH. All patients remained euvolemic, underwent transcranial Doppler assessment every 48 hours, and underwent angiography at the onset of delayed neurological deficits. New-onset neurological deficits were attributed to vasospasm only in the absence of other causes and when supported by transcranial Doppler or cerebral angiography. RESULTS Sixteen patients (40%) experienced symptomatic cerebral vasospasm after SAH. A more than threefold increase in admission serum BNP was associated with the onset of hyponatremia (P < 0.05). Mean BNP levels were similar between vasospasm and nonvasospasm patients fewer than 3 days after SAH (126 +/- 39 pg/ml versus 154 +/- 40 pg/ml; P = 0.61) but were elevated in the vasospasm cohort 4 to 6 days after SAH (285 +/- 67 pg/ml versus 116 +/- 30 pg/ml; P < 0.01), 7 to 9 days after SAH (278 +/- 72 pg/ml versus 166 +/- 45 pg/ml; P < 0.01), and 9 to 12 days after SAH (297 +/- 83 pg/ml versus 106 +/- 30 pg/ml; P < 0.01). BNP level remained independently associated with vasospasm adjusting for Fisher grade and Hunt and Hess grade (odds ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-1.6). In patients in whom vasospasm developed, mean serum BNP increased 5.4-fold within 24 hours after vasospasm onset and 11.2-fold the first 3 days after vasospasm onset. Patients with increasing BNP levels from admission demonstrated no change (0 +/- 3) in Glasgow Coma Scale score 2 weeks after SAH versus a 3.0 +/- 2 (P < 0.05) improvement in Glasgow Coma Scale score in patients without increasing serum BNP levels. CONCLUSION Increasing serum BNP levels independently were associated with hyponatremia, significantly increased the first 24 hours after onset of delayed ischemic neurological deficits, and predicted the 2-week Glasgow Coma Scale score.
Multiple mutant analysis of recombination in yeast.

The RAD6, RAD50, and RAD52 loci have been identified as genes which code for functions which may act during meiotic recombination in yeast (Game et al. 1980; Prakash et al. 1980). By use of the spo13-1 mutation, which allows sporulating cells to bypass the first meiotic division, the rad50-1 mutation has been directly implicated as a general meiotic Rec- mutation by examination of viable ascospores (Malone and Esposito 1981). Since the rad6-1 and rad52-1 mutations do not yield viable ascospores in the presence of spo13-1, multiple rad mutants have been constructed and analyzed. This analysis has demonstrated that in meiosis rad50-1 is epistatic to rad52-1, and rad6-1 is epistatic to rad50-1. This suggests that the order of action of these genes during meiosis is RAD6, RAD50, and then RAD52. The data for rad6-1 can be interpreted to suggest that RAD6 may not code for a recombination function, per se, although it may be required for recombination to occur. Analysis of mitotic recombination indicates that rad52-1 is epistatic to rad50-1; in mitosis; this is consistent with the hypothesis that the RAD50 gene codes for a recombination function required in meiosis but not in mitosis.
Oral manifestations of genodermatoses.

Hundreds of known genetic disorders affect the mouth and oral mucous membranes. Many of these conditions are associated with late-onset complications that affect a patient’s overall life expectancy. For example, almost all patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) type IIB develop an aggressive form of medullary thyroid cancer [1]. With recent advances in technology and improved screening techniques, the opportunity to prevent life-threatening complications in patients with genetic disorders is greater than ever before. Optimal prevention of secondary complications, however, is dependent on an early, correct initial diagnosis. This article provides a focused review of specific genetic disorders that affect the mouth and also have prominent associated dermatologic features. In several conditions presented here, the oral findings are distinct and may provide the first clue of an underlying genetic diagnosis. In each discussion, clinical features that help confirm a genetic diagnosis are discussed. For these genetic disorders, family members may be at risk. Molecular genetic testing, when available as an aid for diagnosis and genetic counseling, is included in the discussion.
Forecasting and planning in an incoherent context

What follows concerning the predicament of forecasts and planning is subject to the same criticisms and constraints I apply to them and their context. My observations are also forecasts: stories based on arbitrary and fragmentary images of social “reality” and my words share the same dubious status as words per se that I shall describe later. But all of us are sinking in this ontological and epistemological swamp: To paraphrase the Tao Te Ching, those who know can not say: those who say do not know. So be it.
Sunlight and Skin-Associated Lymphoid Tissues (SALT): If UVB Is the Trigger and TNFa Is its Mediator, What Is the Message?

The damaging effects on cutaneous immunity of Iow-dose ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation in sunlight are genetically determined in mice. Polymorphic alleles at the Tnfa and Lps loci dictate whether mice are UVB susceptible or resistant, i.e., deveIop contact hypersensitivity or not when hapten is painted on UVB-exposed skin. In mice, UVB susceptibility is mediated almost exclusively by tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFa). Circumstantial evidence implicates urocanic acid (UCA) in the stratum corneum as the photoreceptor for UVB, and recent results suggest that cis-UCA in turn instigates the intraepidermal accumulation of TNFa. It is hypothesized that TNFa interrupts the induction of contact hypersensitivity by preventing epidermal Langerhans cells from carrying hapten to the draining lymph node, where activation of naive, hapten-specific T cells must first occur. The phenotypic traits of UVB susceptibility (UVB-S) and UVB resistance (UVB-R) have now been documented in human beings, and the frequency of UVB-S is high (approximately 40-45%) in both Caucasians and individuals with deeply pigmented skin. Because the frequency of UVB-S is extremely high in patients with biopsy-proved basai and squamous celI skin cancer, this trait appears to be a risk factor for this disease. The unexpectediy high frequency of UVB-S in human beings, including black-skinned persons, implies that the trait is not perceived by evolutionary processes as deleterious. The possible selective advantages conferred by alleles that determine UVB-S are discussed with respect to cutaneous infections in which mortality and morbidity are primarily mediated by immunopathogenic processes.
Investigation of rhodium catalyzed hydroformylation of ethylene in supercritical carbon dioxide by in situ FTIR spectroscopy

Abstract The reactions of RhH(CO)L 3 (L=P(3,5-(CF 3 ) 2 C 6 H 3 ) 3 ) with CO, H 2 , C 2 H 4 and mixtures of these in supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO 2 ) were investigated using high-pressure FTIR spectroscopy. The results were compared to the behavior of the conventional catalyst, RhH(CO)(PPh 3 ) 3 , in organic solvents. RhH(CO)L 3 does not dissociate in scCO 2 and it is converted to RhH(CO) 2 L 2 and to [Rh(CO) 2 L 2 ] 2 in the presence of CO and mainly to RhH(CO)L 2 in the presence of an equimolar mixture of CO and H 2 . In the presence of CO and C 2 H 4 , the peaks observed in the acyl region and the terminal metal carbonyl region indicate the formation of three different acylrhodium complexes which are Rh(CO)L 2 (COEt), Rh(CO) 2 L 2 (COEt), and Rh(CO) 3 L(COEt). Similar species were also observed during the hydroformylation reaction. The first ever detection of the presence of Rh(CO)L 2 (COEt) under hydroformylation conditions provides direct evidence for the mechanism originally proposed by Wilkinson and co-workers. The carbonyl stretching frequencies of all of the rhodium–carbonyl species are shifted to higher wavenumbers due to a reduction of electron density at the metal center by the CF 3 groups.
Towards ubiquitous computing with call prediction

With the long-awaited era of the pervasive computing approaches, the handheld devices such as personal mobile phones begin to evolve into ubiquitous computing devices. At this early stage of the evolution, we propose a model of a call predictor based on the naive Bayesian classifier. As an incoming call predictor, our model makes use of the user's call history to generate a list of numbers/contacts that are the most likely to be the callers within the next hour. On the other hand, when the user wants to make an outgoing call (e.g., user flips open the phone or unlocks the phone, etc.), the outgoing call predictor generates a list of number/contacts to be called. Our model has been evaluated with the real-life call logs and it shows a promising result in accuracy.
Spacecraft re-entry strategies: Meeting debris mitigation and ground safety requirements:

AbstractRe-entry of space hardware into the atmosphere is a recommended technique for disposal of space hardware at end of life. However, while aerodynamic heating and loads will break a reentering...
Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Adrenal Function in Infantile Spasms: Effects of ACTH Therapy

The metyrapone test was used to study the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal function in ten children with infantile spasms, before and after ACTH treatment. The hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal response was normal before ACTH treatment in almost all children. After ACTH, the responses of two children were suggestive of a diminished pituitary reserve; three were suggestive of decreased adrenal as well as decreased pituitary reserve, and one suggested either adrenal hyperplasia with normal pituitary reserve, or appropriate response to a developing medical stress. We suggest that, in children being treated with ACTH, the dosage of ACTH should be gradually tapered, AM cortisol levels should be monitored, and high-dose steroids should be included when treating medical stress. (J Child Neurol 1987;2:220-223).
Subjects agree to participate in environmental health studies without fully comprehending the associated risk.

Recent advances in environmental health research have greatly improved our ability to measure and quantify how individuals are exposed. These advances, however, bring bioethical uncertainties and potential risks that individuals should be aware of before consenting to participate. This study assessed how well participants from two environmental health studies comprehended consent form material. After signing the consent form, participants were asked to complete a comprehension assessment tool. The tool measured whether participants could recognize or recall six elements of the consent form they had just reviewed. Additional data were collected to look for differences in comprehension by gender, age, race, and the time spent reading the original consent form. Seventy-three participants completed a comprehension assessment tool. Scores ranged from 1.91 to 6.00 (mean = 4.66); only three people had perfect comprehension scores. Among the least comprehended material were questions on study-related risks. Overall, 53% of participants were not aware of two or more study-related risks. As environmental public health studies pose uncertainties and potential risks, researchers need to do more to assess participants’ understanding before assuming that individuals have given their ‘informed’ consent.
Modified hermite quintic curves and applications

Abstract The work described in the paper represents point files with curvature-tangency information by means of a modified Hermite quintic parametric curve. It is seen that the quintic curve can be developed using only some of the points and tangents in the interval, and passed through the remaining points in the manner described. The curve can then be tested for goodness of fit, and replaced with a ‘shorter’ sector if necessary.
Nut cracking by wild chimpanzees in Sierra Leone, West Africa

I report an incidence of chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes verus) cracking ofDetarium senegalense (Caesalpiniaceae) nuts on Tiwai Island, Sierra Leone. Similar behavior has been reported from other West African locations, but not from Central or East Africa.
Integrin-Dependent Translational Control: Implication in Cancer Progression

KEY WORDS integrin; mTOR; eIF4E; eIF2 cap-dependent translation; cancerABSTRACT The importance of translational control in cancer progression has been under-scored by a number of recent studies. However, little is known how cancer cells maintain their highefﬁciency of translation. Here, we summarize studies that support the role of integrins in transla-tional control, especially at the initiation step, and discuss the various mechanisms by which integ-rins regulate the recruitment of translational machinery. This review also examines the hypothesisthat integrins contribute to various aspects of cancer progression such as proliferation, survival,angiogenesis, and invasion through translational control. Microsc. Res. Tech. 71:380–386,2008.
A 3.1–10.6 GHz CMOS mixer with a 1.6 GHz IF bandwidth for frequency hopping OFDM applications

A 3.1–10.6 GHz mixer for frequency hopping OFDM applications is presented. With band stop filter loads, the mixer, designed in a 0.13 µm CMOS process, achieved a 1.6 GHz IF bandwidth and a 12 dB conversion gain in the first band group. The conversion gain variation in each IF bandwidth is less than ±1.5 dB. The noise figure is 8–13 dB and input return loss is better than −10 dB in the entire RF frequency.
A systematic approach to the analysis of noise in mixers

A theory for the analysis of noise performance in active mixers is presented. An implementation of this theory using current simulation tools, as well as a more numerically efficient and accurate method, is included. The theory is used to analyze the noise figure of a 1-GHz monolithic mixer and agrees well with measured values. >
The SNAP-19 Radioisotopic Thermoelectric Generator Experiment

The Nimbus III/SNAP-19 launch on April 14, 1969, represented the first flight of a nuclear power supply on a NASA observatory and the culmination of six years of interagency effort between NASA and the AEC. The SNAP-19 consists of two generators, two dc-dc converters, and a telemetry signal conditioning unit. Power is produced by converting the radioactive heat of decay of the isotope Pu-238 in a static thermopile consisting of 90 PbTe 2n-3p couples per generator. SNAP-19 S/N 009 produced 49.02 watts of usable power at launch and has degraded to 44.03 watts after 7? months, which represents a significantly higher degradation rate than predicted prior to launch from endurance testing of the same technology in electrically heated generators. Leakage of generator fill gas has resulted in a pressure drop from 15.5 to 1.32 psia. Generator currents have decreased as generator internal resistances have increased with time. Hot-cold junction temperatures have risen about 5°F during this period. while fin root tenperatures have risen 2-3°F
Using the arduino platform to enhance student learning experiences

We present preliminary experiences using the Arduino microprocessor platform in the undergraduate computing curricula, at both the upper and lower levels. The goal is to enhance student learning by engaging them in a contextualized project-based learning experience and introducing them to fundamental computing and engineering concepts in the context of a highly visual and easy to use environment.
Solution procedures for indexed equation sets: Structural considerations

Results are obtained permitting the systematic development of solution procedures for indexed equations by analyzing and combining a number of small problems. The solution procedures obtained are independent of index limits and can be written compactly by using nested FORTRAN DO-loops or equivalent. To illustrate the approach, a solution procedure is developed for a multistage, multicomponent distillation column segment. The solution procedure is valid for any number of stages and components.
Governance and Conditionality: Toward a Sustainable Framework?

AbstractThe article examines how conditionality has evolved in the Eurozone during the debt crisis. Four main aspects are examined. The first is the trade-off between adjustment and financing, and in particular the possible resort to debt restructuring in advanced economies. The second is the decision-making process, which is particularly cumbersome in the Eurozone, as it relies largely on intergovernmental agreements and procedures, which proved to be inefficient and slow. The third issue concerns the financing conditions, which have initially been inspired on IMF programs, but proved excessively restrictive for a monetary union where countries cannot devalue in order to regain competitiveness. Finally, the article examines the contents of conditionality, and in particular the recent emphasis on structural reforms as a way to strengthen the supply side. A more sustainable framework requires greater political integration, in particular in the fiscal sphere, which is not easy to achieve in particular in th...
Computation of flamefront NO emissions from spark ignition engines

AbstractFlamefront NO emissions from spark ignition engines are estimated in this work using a two-zone thermo-dynamic combustion model, an unsteady engine flame model, the wrinkled laminar flame model of Bray and Moss, the k-e theory and simplified flamefront NO chemistry which has been verified in steady laminar premixed flames. The results show that as much as 230 ppm of flamefront NO may be formed under stoichiometric engine operating conditions. The present approach is an alternative to the empirical correlations used to compute engine flamefront NO which are based on highly extrapolated data.
Spatial correlation analysis using canonical correlation decomposition for sparse sonar array processing

This paper uses the canonical correlation decomposition (CCD) framework to investigate the spatial correlation of sources captured using two spatially separated sensor arrays. The relationship between the canonical correlations of the observed signals and the spatial correlation coefficients of the source signals are first derived, including an analysis of the changes seen in this relationship under certain noise level and array geometry assumptions. Additionally, simulation results are presented that demonstrate the effects of different noise levels and array geometries on the canonical correlations for the case of two uniform linear sparse arrays.
The Role Of Negative Information In Dissolving Consumer Identification With Companies

A benefit of strong consumer identification with a company has been hypothesized to be consumers’ greater resilience to negative information about the company. The positive consequences of strong consumer-company identification, however, have been proposed to have their limits, or “zone of tolerance”. The present study extended and tested the “zone of tolerance” hypothesis by measuring reactions of company-identified consumers when confronted with negative information that challenged their strong identification with the company.
Effect of embryo culture length on production of cloned transgenic goats

The yield of blastocysts and hatched blastocysts using in vitro production (IVP) in goats are still low. The development of caprine embryos is frequently arrested at the 8- to 16-cell stage, indicating suboptimal culture conditions (Jimenez-Macedo et al. 2005 Theriogenology 64, 1249–1262). Our goal was to produce transgenic goats by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and further determine whether the length of embryo culture has an effect on development to term. We compared the efficiency of transferring single-cell embryos 12 h post-activation to transferring 4- to 8-cell embryos cultured for 60 h post-activation. Nine transgenic goats from 2 cell lines were produced through SCNT. Somatic donor cells were obtained from 2 sources: adult fibroblasts and fetal fibroblasts. Adult fibroblasts were obtained from a transgenic doe skin biopsy. Fetal fibroblasts were isolated from a 25-day-old fetus and then electroporated with a pcDNA3.1DV5-MHC-TGF-β1cys33ser vector, followed by G418 selection, screening, and subsequent use for SCNT. Oocytes with >4 layers of cumulus cells were collected by slicing abattoir ovaries and matured in vitro for 21 to 23 h. After being denuded, oocytes presenting a first polar body were enucleated and received a donor cell from 1 of the 2 cell lines. Fused embryos were then activated for 5 min in 5 µM ionomycin, followed by 4 h in 2 mM DMAP with 5 µg of cycloheximide mL–1. Activated embryos were cultured in G1 medium with 5 mg of BSA mL–1 for either 12 or 60 h post-activation, followed by surgical transfer into the oviducts of recipients synchronized to show estrus within 12 h of SCNT. Overall, 376 embryos were transferred into 23 recipients. Pregnancy was examined by ultrasonography on Day 30 post-transfer. No pregnancy losses were observed after Day 30 of gestation. All kids were born live (42% of recipients receiving embryos cultured for 12 h gave birth, compared with only 9% when cultured for 60 h). The data (Table 1) suggest that a longer culture time in vitro significantly reduces viability of cloned embryos. Table 1.Twelve-hour versus 60-h embryo culture This work was supported by Utah Agricultural Experiment Station project no. 1100.
Interfacing a CDG parser with an HMM word recognizer using word graphs

We describe a prototype spoken language system that loosely integrates a speech recognition component based on hidden Markov models with a constraint dependency grammar (CDG) parser using a word graph to pass sentence candidates between the two modules. This loosely coupled system was able to improve the sentence selection accuracy and concept accuracy over the level achieved by the acoustic module with a stochastic grammar. Timing profiles suggest that a tighter coupling of the modules could reduce parsing times of the system, as could the development of better acoustic models and tighter parsing constraints for conjunctions.
Challenges in teaching a graduate course in applied cryptography

We describe our experience in creating and teaching a graduate course in cryptography at the Johns Hopkins University. We emphasize on the importance of such a course for a graduate student in an information security program. We discuss the course implementation and discuss the challenges in teaching this course to students from varied backgrounds. Based on our observations, we suggest specific improvements that could be applied to this course in the future.
Optical comb sources for suppression of stimulated Brillouin scattering in long-haul analog photonic links

We demonstrate a 50-km repeater-less analog optical link with a record spur-free dynamic range of ∼ 105 dB-Hz2/3. An optical comb source mitigates stimulated Brillouin scattering allowing increased launch power and reduced optical post-amplification.
Ethnography 1900 Learning from the Field Research of an Old Century

Ethnographic research has changed dramatically over the past century, as a review of research published in the American Journal of Sociology from 1895 to 1910 attests. After describing the characte...
Rationale for the use of combination angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor blocker therapy in heart failure

Abstract Background Heart failure (HF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a major role in its pathophysiology, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are the cornerstone of therapy. However, HF continues to progress despite this therapy, perhaps because of production of angiotensin II by alternative pathways, which lead to direct stimulation of the angiotensin II receptor. Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) therapy alone or in combination with the ACE inhibitor is a promising approach to block the RAS and slow HF progression more completely. Methods The current medical literature on the pathophysiology of HF and the use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs was extensively reviewed. Results Evidence from basic science, experimental animals, and clinical trials provides data on the safety and efficacy of RAS inhibition with ACE inhibitors and ARBs as monotherapy and in combination. Data from the Evaluation of Losartan in the Elderly (ELITE) II trial indicate that ARBs alone do not appear to be more effective than ACE inhibitors in HF, but studies evaluating their use in combination are currently ongoing. Conclusions The addition of an ARB offers more complete angiotensin II receptor blockade of the RAS than can be obtained by ACE inhibitors alone. Combination therapy preserves the benefits of bradykinin potentiation offered by ACE inhibitors while providing potential antitrophic influences of AT 2 receptor stimulation and may play an increased role in the treatment of chronic HF in the future. (Am Heart J 2000;140:361-6.)
The Economic Impact of International Labor Migration: Recent Estimates and Policy Implications

In this essay, I survey the economic theory and the most recent empirical evidence of the economic impact of international labor migration. Estimates of the magnitude of the gains that the world could enjoy by liberalizing international migration indicate that even partial liberalization would not only produce substantial increases in the world's real income but also improve its distribution. The gains from liberalization would be distributed such that if we examine the effects on natives in the countries of immigration, on the migrants, and on those left behind in the countries of emigration, we find that each group would enjoy significant gains. Furthermore, estimates of the impact of immigration on native workers in the United States indicate that only the least skilled native workers suffer adverse effects and that these effects are small. Thus, although the economic effects of immigration on native workers and distributive justice among natives are often advanced as reasons to reduce immigration, these concerns do not provide a sound justification for our restrictive immigration laws. Instead, the appropriate response to concerns about the distribution of income among natives is to increase the progressivity of our tax system. Protectionist immigration policies are not only likely to be relatively costly as an instrument for redistribution but also perverse from the standpoint of global justice. Thus, considerations of economic efficiency and distributive justice both militate in favor of liberalized immigration policies.
Identification of Strain-Specific Nucleotide Sequences in the RA 27/3 Rubella Virus Vaccine

A polymerase chain reaction-based protocol was developed for determination of the sequence of 1300 nucleotides in the E1 coding region of the genomes of multiple strains of rubella virus. From a collection of sequences of 9 independent strains and isolates, characteristic nucleotides were identified that distinguished the RA 27/3 strain, which is the currently used attenuated vaccine strain. These characteristic nucleotides were maintained in virus recovered from recent vaccinees. Both the assay and the knowledge of these characteristic nucleotides should be of use in determining the origin of virus isolated from individuals who have suspected vaccine-associated complications. The nucleotide sequences of the independent rubella virus strains differed by 0.7%-3.6%. Phylogenetic tree analysis of the sequences indicated the existence of at least three distinct genetic lineages.
Ravel-XL: a hardware accelerator for assigned-delay compiled-code logic gate simulation

Ravel-XL is a single-board hardware accelerator for gate-level digital logic simulation. It uses a standard levelized-code approach to statically schedule gate evaluations. However, unlike previous approaches based on levelized-code scheduling, it is not limited to zero- or unit-delay gate models and can provide timing accuracy comparable to that obtained from event-driven methods. We review the synchronous waveform algebra that forms the basis of the Ravel-XL simulation algorithm, present an architecture for its hardware realization, and describe an implementation of this architecture as a single VLSI chip. The chip has about 900000 transistors on a die that is approximately 1.4 cm/sup 2/, requires a 256 pin package and is designed to run at 33 MHz. A Ravel-XL board consisting of the processor chip and local instruction and data memory can simulate up to one billion gates at a rate of approximately 6.6 million gate evaluations per second. To better appreciate the tradeoffs made in designing Ravel-XL, we compare its capabilities to those of other commercial and research software simulators and hardware accelerators.
Divergent differentiation paths in airway smooth muscle culture: induction of functionally contractile myocytes

We tested the hypothesis that prolonged serum deprivation would allow a subset of cultured airway myocytes to reacquire the abundant contractile protein content, marked shortening capacity, and elo...
Therapeutic efficacy of a novel FAK inhibitor TAE226 in ovarian carcinoma

AACR Annual Meeting-- Apr 14-18, 2007; Los Angeles, CA 3751 Objective: Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) overexpression is frequently found in ovarian and other cancers and is predictive of poor clinical outcome. In the current study, we characterized the biological and therapeutic effects of a novel FAK inhibitor,TAE226. Methods: Taxane-sensitive (SKOV3ip1 and HeyA8) and taxane-resistant (HeyA8-MDR) cell lines were used for in vitro and in vivo therapy experiments using TAE226 alone and in combination with docetaxel. Assessment of cell proliferation (PCNA), angiogenesis (CD31 staining) and apoptosis (TUNEL) was performed by immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence techniques. Results: In vitro , TAE226 inhibited phosphorylation of FAK at both Y397 and Y861, inhibited cell growth in a time- and dose- dependent manner, and enhanced docetaxel-mediated growth inhibition by 10 and 20 fold in the taxane-sensitive and resistant cell lines, respectively. In vivo , FAK inhibition by TAE226, significantly reduced tumor burden in the HeyA8, SKOV3ip1, and HeyA8-MDR models compared to the vehicle treated controls. Treatment with both TAE226 and docetaxel had greater efficacy than either agent alone in all three models (HeyA8: 75% reduction; p<0.002; SKOV3ip1: 97% reduction; p<0.001; HeyA8-MDR: 70% reduction; p<0.04). In addition, TAE226 alone and in combination with chemotherapy prolonged survival in tumor-bearing mice. Even in larger tumors, combination therapy with TAE226 and docetaxel resulted in tumor regression, as determined by bioluminescent imaging. Combination therapy induced apoptosis of tumor-associated endothelial cells and reduced microvessel density and tumor cell proliferation compared to control and single-agent therapy. Conclusions: TAE226 in combination with docetaxel is highly effective for the treatment of ovarian carcinoma. Therefore, FAK inactivation may be an attractive therapeutic approach against ovarian cancer.
Separable spike and plateau action potentials and their roles in contraction of frog ventricle.

SummaryThe compound nature of the ventricular muscle action potential was demonstrated. Two thresholds, one for spike and the other for plateau generation were observed in the frog ventricles under action of Mn2+, and even more clearly in hypertonic Ringer solutions containing glycerol and Mn2+. Twitch contractions occurred only with appearance of the plateau. Tetrodotoxin eliminated the spike, leaving a plateau-like response behind. The Na+-spike is thought normally to trigger the plateau response which relates somehow to Ca2+-influx and release and thus to the initiation of contraction.
Study of Plunge Stage for a Hybrid Friction Stir Welding Process Based on Electro-Plastic Effect

In this study, an electrically assisted friction stir welding (FSW) system has been designed and developed. Additional electrodes are assembled and stay in the close proximity of the tool as the tool translates along the weldline. Plunge stage of FSW process has been studied for both aluminum alloy Al 6061 and TRIP 780 steel based on this developed experimental configuration. An effective axial force reduction can be consistently observed after application of a continuous current. In order to compare the relative significance of the associated resistance thermal effect, the workpiece has been preheated to approximately same temperature and it can be shown that around 2/3 of the force reduction can be contributed to the electricity itself. Microstructure of the cross sections for Al 6061 plunge specimens indicated an enhanced dynamic recrystallization process under the influence of current. This phenomenon was not obvious on steel, which is probably due to the higher Joule heating temperature and consequently accelerated grain growth. On the other hand, thermal mechanically affected zone of steel suggested a retarded martensitic phase transformation with electrical current applied.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Ultrasonic Study of the Low Temperature Structural Phase Transition in Yba2Cu3O7-δ. and its Dependence on Oxygen Concentration

Elastic and structural instability have been reported in YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7‐δ between 210K and 270K. We have carried out an ultrasonic study of these instabilities as a function of both oxygen concentration and annealing temperature. The results strongly indicate that an athermal (martensitic‐type) transition starts at a temperature T s which decreases with decreasing oxygen concentration. A linear relationship between T s and T c suggests that the second phase formed is essential for the high T c .
INTRACARDIAC ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY GUIDED TRANSFEMORAL TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT WITHOUT ENDOTRACHEAL INTUBATION

Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has demonstrated to provide comparable diagnostic image to transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The purpose of this study is to evaluate a feasibility of ICE guided transfemoral (TF) TAVR with deep conscious
New hemophilia-like disease caused by deficiency of a third plasma thromboplastin factor.

Summary1. A third type of hemophilia characterized by a deficiency in a plasma thromboplastin factor other than anti-hemophilic globulin and plasma thromboplastin component (PTC) has been identifie...
Effect of high calorie and high fat diet on LDL, ox-LDL and TNF-α in juvenil rats

Objective To observe the effect of high calorie and high fat diet on Oxidized Low Density Lipoprotein(ox-LDL) and Low Density Lipoprotein(LDL) concentration in serum, and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α(TNF-α) concentration in fat tissues in juvenil SD rats. Methods 21 days SD rats were fed with high calorie and high fat diet 8 weeks. Then the LDL, the ox-LDL concentration in serum and the TNF-α concentration in fat tissues were measured. Results Compared with normal group, the LDL and the ox-LDL concentration in serum were significantly increased, and the TNF-α concentration in fat tissues was significantly increased too. Conclusions The diet of high calorie and high fat made the ox-LDL and TNF-α concentration increased. The synergistic effect induces the subclinical atherosclerosis of juvenil obesity rats, which may increase the risk of atherosclerosis when they grow up.
Western Blotting of Human Sera—Can It Help Diagnose Bed Bug Bites?

Reports of bed bug (Cimex lectularius) infestations and bite reactions have dramatically increased over the past decade and should be included in the differential diagnosis in cases of unexplained insect bites.1 Proteins in bed bug saliva are readily recognized by the human immune system, leading to various humoral and cellular responses, including production of cytokines/chemokines.2