cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lotus Versus Rose: Biomimetic Surface Effects

The Lotus and rose petal effects have become a subject of active investigation by scientists, as they involve different modes of the interaction of wetting with roughness. The contact angle (CA) and CA hysteresis are two parameters, which characterize the hydrophobicity/philicity of a solid surface. Lotus-effect surfaces have a high CA and low CA hysteresis. However, it was found recently that a high CA can coexist with strong adhesion between water and a solid surface (and high CA hysteresis) in the case of the so-called “rose petal effect.” It is clear now that wetting cannot be characterized by only the CA, since several modes or regimes of wetting of a rough surface can exist, including the Wenzel, Cassie, Lotus, and Petal regimes. This is due to the hierarchical structure of rough surfaces built of micro- and nanoscale roughness, so that a composite interface can exist at the microscale, while a homogeneous interface can exist at the nanoscale or vice versa. The understanding of the wetting of rough surfaces is important in order to design non-adhesive surfaces for various applications, including environmental.
The Historical Unreality of the Cold War

The mechanization, the automation, the astounding speed of travel and transport and communication, the gigantic cities, the growing density of population which is occurring almost everywhere in our time — are all novel. This Academy and the Center for Human Understanding of the University of Chicago have been established to help cope with these unique conditions of existence, which arrest us as scientists, as historians and other students of man, as writers and other artists, as business men and workers of every kind.
Partial Fraction Expansions

Ramanujan evidently had an affinity for partial fraction expansions, which can be found in several places in his notebooks. The heaviest concentrations lie in Chapters 14 and 18 and in the unorganized pages at the end of the second notebook. See our books [4] and [6] for accounts of the material in Chapters 14 and 18, respectively. In this chapter, we prove the 15 partial fraction decompositions found in the unorganized pages of the second notebook.
Na + -K + -2Cl - Cotransporter (NKCC) Physiological Function in Nonpolarized Cells and Transporting Epithelia

Two genes encode the Na+ -K+ -2Cl- cotransporters, NKCC1 and NKCC2, that mediate the tightly coupled movement of 1Na+ , 1K+ , and 2Cl- across the plasma membrane of cells. Na+ -K+ -2Cl- cotransport is driven by the chemical gradient of the three ionic species across the membrane, two of them maintained by the action of the Na+ /K+ pump. In many cells, NKCC1 accumulates Cl- above its electrochemical potential equilibrium, thereby facilitating Cl- channel-mediated membrane depolarization. In smooth muscle cells, this depolarization facilitates the opening of voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels, leading to Ca2+ influx, and cell contraction. In immature neurons, the depolarization due to a GABA-mediated Cl- conductance produces an excitatory rather than inhibitory response. In many cell types that have lost water, NKCC is activated to help the cells recover their volume. This is specially the case if the cells have also lost Cl- . In combination with the Na+ /K+ pump, the NKCC's move ions across various specialized epithelia. NKCC1 is involved in Cl- -driven fluid secretion in many exocrine glands, such as sweat, lacrimal, salivary, stomach, pancreas, and intestine. NKCC1 is also involved in K+ -driven fluid secretion in inner ear, and possibly in Na+ -driven fluid secretion in choroid plexus. In the thick ascending limb of Henle, NKCC2 activity in combination with the Na+ /K+ pump participates in reabsorbing 30% of the glomerular-filtered Na+ . Overall, many critical physiological functions are maintained by the activity of the two Na+ -K+ -2Cl- cotransporters. In this overview article, we focus on the functional roles of the cotransporters in nonpolarized cells and in epithelia. © 2018 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 8:871-901, 2018.
Will the urban agricultural revolution be vertical and soilless? A case study of controlled environment agriculture in New York City.

Abstract Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is an emerging form of farming increasingly found in cities worldwide. Advocates promote CEA as the future of food production, arguing for its potential to address challenges ranging from climate change to food insecurity. Detractors state that CEA’s narrow focus on high-end produce, along with its intensive capital and energy needs, limit its meaningful contribution to the urban food system. Over the last seven years, New York City has become an epicenter for urban CEA, offering planners an in-situ setting in which to evaluate its impact. The following case study examines the current state of CEA in New York City, its composition, requirements, and future. The authors identify CEA’s relative contributions, which include providing a small number of green-sector jobs and increasing access to produce in low-income communities. In parallel, they question if CEA provides sufficient benefits to warrant public-sector support. Recommendations for cities considering CEA include critically analyzing its purported benefits; evaluating the environmental, economic and social potential of projects located on publicly-owned rooftops and land; and focusing incentives on nonprofit and institutional production that show clear community benefits.
Love, Arranged Marriage, and the Indian Social Structure*

This paper examines the concepts of “romantic love” and “conjugal love” and their relationship to arranged marriage in the Indian social system. The family system, though it is pervasive in all soc...
The Relationship Between Adaptive Selling, Task-Related Sales Behavior and Commitment to Performance-Some Promising Results

In selling research, more often than not, multiple indicators have proven more predictive than single ones. Hence, with mixed results to date for adaptive selling, additional factors-task-related behavior and goal commitment-were added to predict sales performance. Using structural equations modeling, such a model proved, unfortunately, to be no more successful in predicting performance. However, adaptive selling and task-related behavior both were significant in predicting goal commitment. Recommendations for further research are suggested, including an expanded definition of performance that includes more than just measures of meeting sales volume targets.
Clinical Practice Patterns for Postoperative Water Balance After Pituitary Surgery

Objective: Abnormalities of water and sodium balance, including diabetes insipidus and the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), are common complications of transsphenoidal surgery. Postoperative practice patterns vary among clinicians, and no consensus guidelines exist to direct their monitoring and management. We aimed to identify and compare practice patterns regarding the evaluation and management to these postoperative complications. Methods: A questionnaire was utilized to capture demographic data and practice habits in the postoperative setting. Respondents were members of the Pituitary Society, an international organization comprised of clinicians and researchers dedicated to the study of pituitary disease. Results: Eighty-six respondents completed at least part of the survey. The geographic distribution of respondents was roughly even between American and non-American practitioners. The majority of respondents practiced at academic institutions (67.4%), worked in multidisciplinary teams (88.4%), and possessed significantly greater than 10 years of clinical experience (71%). Compared to non-American practitioners, American practitioners described a shorter length of stay postoperatively (P<.001) and prescribed more restrictive volume recommendations for postoperative SIADH (P = .0035). Early career clinicians (less than 10 years in practice) checked first postoperative sodium level earlier than later career clinicians (P = .010). Conclusion: Water and sodium dysregulation are common following transsphenoidal surgery, but their management is not well-standardized in clinical practice. We created a questionnaire to define and compare practice patterns. Most respondents practice in academic settings in multidisciplinary teams. The length of clinical experience did not significantly impact practice habits. Practice location influenced length of stay postoperatively and fluid restriction in SIADH. Abbreviations: AVP = arginine vasopressin; DI = diabetes insipidus; LOS = length of stay; SIADH = syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone.
Electrochemical Surface Treatment of Discontinuous Carbon Fibers.

We developed an operationally simple electrolytic design for the surface treatment of short carbon fibers. Using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), we demonstrated that the electrochemical sur...
Prosecution of Foreign Fighter Returnees

Most Western governments have relied on the prosecution of foreign fighter returnees as a way of punishing those who went to Syria and Iraq to fight for ISIS and other extremist groups. Hundreds of foreign fighter returnees have been prosecuted and imprisoned in their home countries. The chapter dwells on the challenges associated with the prosecution of foreign fighter returnees. In addition to the difficulties associated with the prosecution itself, imprisonment of violent extremists carries the threat of prison-based radicalization. The chapter examines the dynamics of prison-based radicalization and analyzes the imprisonment option as it relates to foreign fighter returnees.
‘Preserving and Improving the Breeds’: Cow Protection’s Animal-Husbandry Connection

Many of the controversial actions of the central and state governments in India in recent months—from strengthened anti-slaughter laws to the issuing of ‘identification cards’ to cattle—have been m...
Ketogenic Diet for the Treatment and Prevention of Dementia: A Review:

Dementia (major neurocognitive disorder) is an increasingly common syndrome with a significant burden on patients, caregivers, the health-care system, and the society. The prevalence of dementia will certainly continue to grow as the US population ages. Current treatments for dementia, though, are limited. One proposed nonpharmacologic approach for the delay or prevention of dementia is the use of a ketogenic diet. The ketogenic diet was originally employed to treat refractory epilepsy and has shown promise in many neurologic diseases. It has also gained recent popularity for its weight loss effects. Several preclinical studies have confirmed a benefit of ketosis on cognition and systemic inflammation. Given the renewed emphasis on neuroinflammation as a pathogenic contributor to cognitive decline, and the decreased systemic inflammation observed with the ketogenic diet, it is plausible that this diet may delay, ameliorate, or prevent progression of cognitive decline. Several small human studies have shown benefit on cognition in dementia with a ketogenic diet intervention. Future, large controlled studies are needed to confirm this benefit; however, the ketogenic diet has shown promise in regard to delay or mitigation of symptoms of cognitive decline.
Increasing Gifted Women’s Pursuit of STEM: Possible Role of NYC Selective Specialized Public High Schools

This study examines female graduates (N = 616) from seven honors colleges in the Northeastern United States and the relationship between attending a New York City (NYC) selective specialized public...
Legionnaires’ disease in the time of COVID-19

Due to similarities in initial disease presentation, clinicians may be inclined to repeatedly test community-acquired pneumonia cases for COVID-19 before recognizing the need to test for Legionnaires’ disease. Legionnaires’ disease is an illness characterized by pneumonia that has a summer/early fall seasonality due to favorable conditions for Legionella growth and exposure. Legionella proliferate in warm water environments and stagnant sections of indoor plumbing and cooling systems. During the ongoing pandemic crisis, exposures to aerosolized water from recently reopened office or retail buildings should be considered as an epidemiologic risk factor for Legionella exposure and an indication to test. The majority of Legionnaires’ disease cases occurring each year are not diagnosed, and some experts recommend that all patients hospitalized with community-acquired pneumonia without a known etiology be tested for Legionella infection. Proper diagnosis can increase the likelihood of appropriate and timely antibiotic treatment, identify potential clusters of disease, and facilitate source attribution.
Sepsis and Mortality Prediction in Very Low Birth Weight Infants: Analysis of HeRO and nSOFA.

Objective Scores to predict sepsis or define sepsis severity could improve care for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. The heart rate characteristics (HRC) index (HeRO score) was developed as an early warning system for late-onset sepsis (LOS), and also rises before necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). The neonatal sequential organ failure assessment (nSOFA) was developed to predict sepsis-associated mortality using respiratory, hemodynamic, and hematologic data. The aim of this study was to analyze the HRC index and nSOFA near blood cultures in VLBW infants relative to diagnosis and sepsis-associated mortality. Study design Retrospective, single-center study of VLBW infants from 2011 to 2019. We analyzed HRC index and nSOFA around blood cultures diagnosed as LOS/NEC. In a subgroup of the cohort, we analyzed HRC and nSOFA near the first sepsis-like illness (SLI) or sepsis ruled-out (SRO) compared with LOS/NEC. We compared scores by diagnosis and mortality during treatment. Results We analyzed 179 LOS/NEC, 93 SLI, and 96 SRO blood culture events. In LOS/NEC, the HRC index increased before the blood culture, while nSOFA increased at the time of culture. Both scores were higher in nonsurvivors compared with survivors and in LOS/NEC compared with SRO. The nSOFA 12 hours after the time of blood culture predicted mortality during treatment better than any other time point analyzed (area under the curve 0.91). Conclusion The HRC index provides earlier warning of imminent sepsis, whereas nSOFA after blood culture provides better prediction of mortality. Key points · The HRC index and nSOFA provide complementary information on sepsis risk and sepsis-related mortality risk.. · This study adds to existing literature evaluating these risk scores independently by analyzing them together and in cases of not only proven but also suspected infections.. · The impact of combining risk models could be improved outcomes for premature infants..
Abelacimab for Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism.

Abstract Background The role of factor XI in the pathogenesis of postoperative venous thromboembolism is uncertain. Abelacimab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to factor XI and locks it in the z...
The state of K2R grant funding by cancer type from the National Cancer Institute

Objectives: Given that K grant funding secured in early career correlates with success in achieving R funding, we aim to describe the state of K and R funding by cancer type through time, hypothesizing that those cancer sites receiving more K grant allocation also receive greater R grant allocation. Methods: We queried the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Research portfolio from 2007-2017 for K and R grant sums by year and 19 cancer sites. Yearly K grant amount means, medians and sums were summarized for each cancer site, and the sums trended over time, as were yearly K grant number of funded studies. R grant sums were similarly trended through time using linear regression with year as the independent variable. The relationship between K and R grant funding was assessed using a multivariable linear regression model with K grant yearly total by year interaction and adjusting for cancer site, after applying a Box-Cox transformation of R grant total amount to gain linearity. All statistical analyses were performed in R, version 4.0.2. Results: Median yearly number of funded K grants range from 0-85 and median total yearly dollar amounts range from $0-10.66 million. Breast, leukemia and lung (85, 47, 45 respectively) have the highest median number of K grants per year; and breast, lung, and brain ($10.66, 5.95, and 5.85 million) have the highest total yearly amount of K grant funding. Cervical, ovarian and uterine cancer sites ranked 11, 9, and 14 in median number of yearly funded K grants over the 19 cancer sites considered, and 14, 13, and 17 in yearly median K grant dollar amounts. By total yearly R grant medians, the highest funded three cancer sites were breast, lung, and colorectal, while cervix, ovary and uterus ranked 11, 10, and 16. The rates of change over time in K grant funding for cervix, ovarian, and uterine cancer were 0.008, 0.107, and -0.014, while the rates of change in R grant funding for these sites were -1.088, 0.987, and 0.186. They ranked thus 14, 7, and 15 in K grant growth across all sites, and 17, 7, and 12 in R grant growth across sites. K grant funding is significantly associated with growth in R grant funding (p=0.021) adjusting for all cancer sites. Download : Download high-res image (162KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions: Gynecologic cancers are being funded at a lower rate and dollar amount than other cancer types at the K grant level, and this correlates as well with lower rates and dollar amounts at the R grant level. Given early career investigators typically foster innovation, it behooves us to advocate for and mentor more K grant funding recipients in gynecologic cancers. K and R grant funding also demonstrate stagnant growth in gynecologic cancers, also a potential arena for advocacy for allotment of funding.
Influence of sub-zero temperature on nucleation and growth of copper nanoparticles in electrochemical reactions.

Summary Cu metal nanostructures have attracted wide interest of study as catalysts for CO2 reduction reaction and other applications. Controlling the structure and morphology of Cu nanostructures during synthesis is crucial for achieving desired properties. Here, we studied temperature effects on electrochemical deposition of Cu nanoparticles. We found the size, nucleation density, and crystallinity of Cu nanoparticles are strongly influenced by low temperature processing. The electrodeposition at low temperature (−20°C) results in clusters of assembled small Cu nanoparticles, which is distinctly different from the large individual highly crystalline Cu nanoparticles obtained from the room temperature process. The differences in Cu nanoparticle morphology and crystallinity are attributed to the variations in reduction reaction rate and surface diffusion. The limitation of the reaction rate promotes multiple nuclei, and low surface diffusion induces poor crystallinity. This study deepens our understanding of low-temperature effects on electrochemical processes assisting the design of diverse hierarchical catalytic materials.
Human Ia-like Alloantigens and Their Medical Significances

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) represents one of the so-called multigene families, and as such is characterized by multiplicity, close linkage, sequence homology, and related or overlapping phenotypic functions. Multigene families are thought to be composed of units of chromosomal organization encompassing a number of genes coding for simple and complex but related traits (Hood et al., 1975). The MHCs in all vertebrate species so far investigated are strikingly homologous and involved in controlling a wide array of biological activities, including allograft survival, immune responsiveness, and susceptibility to disease. The mouse MHC, the H-2 system, has been extensively studied and more completely mapped than the corresponding HLA system in man, largely because of availability of congenic strains differing only in the MHC region.
Brazil's space program: Dreaming with its feet on the ground

Abstract Brazil's space program represents an anomaly among those of the world's 10 largest economic powers. During a time that has witnessed the rapid emergence of a variety of national space programs—even among lesser powers like Iran and South Korea–Brazil's failure to emerge as a significant space actor requires further analysis. This article traces the history of Brazil's space efforts and examines the factors that have held it back, some of which continue to influence its policies today: inadequate funding, conflicting organizations, poorly handled foreign relations, and an unclear national vision for Brazil's “place” in space. Recent efforts to overcome these hurdles through an improved domestic strategy and smarter international relations show promise. But a more sustained political commitment to space development will be needed if they are to succeed.
Heat and mass transfer mechanisms in nanofluids boundary layers

Abstract Steady two-dimensional nanofluids boundary layers are studied with focus on heat and mass transfer properties. The study is conducted by numerical analysis of the nonlinear boundary layer equations in a self-similar form for the case of constant wall temperature. The density, specific heat, viscosity, conductivity, and thermal diffusion dependence on the solid-phase volumetric fraction are considered, as well as the brownian diffusion dependence on temperature. Under the assumption of dilute mixtures, the zeroth order solution is calculated as an approach to the particles distribution in the boundary layer and it is compared with the results obtained from the full equations solutions. The effects of the Schmidt number, the wall temperature, and the particle bulk volumetric fraction on the Nusselt number, the Sherwood number, and the skin-friction coefficient are elucidated and compared to the values obtained for the pure fluid and for uniform mixtures. An increase in the heat transfer performances with respect to the case of the base fluid is found for most of the cases.
A power-optimized 64-bit priority encoder utilizing parallel priority look-ahead

A power-optimized 8-bit priority encoder cell that simplifies the conventional circuit from 102 to 62 transistors is presented. A parallel priority look-ahead architecture that reduces the delay time of priority propagation is introduced. The 8-bit PE cell and parallel priority look-ahead architecture are applied to the design of a 64-bit PE in a latch-based two-stage pipelined structure. Simulation results shows that the 64-bit PE is 27% faster and 53% more power efficient than the conventional design using the same process technology.
A distributed maximal scheduler for strong fairness

Weak fairness guarantees that continuously enabled actions are executed infinitely often. Strong fairness, on the other hand, guarantees that actions that are enabled infinitely often (but not necessarily continuously) are executed infinitely often. In this paper, we present a distributed algorithm for scheduling actions for execution. Assuming weak fairness for the execution of this algorithm, the schedule it provides is strongly fair. Furthermore, this algorithm is maximal in that it is capable of generating any strongly fair schedule. This algorithm is the first strongly-fair scheduling algorithm that is both distributed and maximal.
Field reliability versus predicted reliability: An analysis of root causes for the difference

Thirty-eight reliability experts from the US Department of Defense (DOD) and industry were asked to identify and rank order factors which potentially contributed to the difference between actual and predicted reliabilities (referred to as the reliability delta). Total quality management (TQM) tools were used to analyze the relationships among and impact of key variances on the reliability prediction process and explain apparent differences between the DOD and industry perspectives. The literature review identified eleven factors as possible causes of the reliability delta; however, only six were noted as being significant by the experts. The six factors identified were: problems with data collection; assumptions underlying and use of prediction techniques; lack of understanding of the operational environment; problems with manufacturing processes; short-term management focus; and design-related problems. >
A New Methodology for Whole-Package Microbial Challenge Testing for Medical Device Trays

It is critical that packages containing sterile medical devices maintain a sterile barrier until the device is used. In 1995, a study conducted by the Health Industry Manufacturers Association (HIMA) compared a whole-package microbial challenge test to physical integrity testing [1]; published results indicated the superiority of physical tests. This paper discusses the problems with the classic approach to whole-package microbial challenge, outlines a new whole-package microbial challenge test, and details the work done to begin to illustrate its effectiveness. The project aim is the creation of a new methodology for microbial challenge testing of medical device packages that reduces the chance of false positives that were commonly observed with the previous technique. The proposed method involves aseptically filling sterile, sealed packages with growth media, challenging them with microbes, incubating the package, and then conducting colony counts to determine package contamination. Results suggest that the proposed technique does not have the false positives that were associated with historical microbial challenge testing. False positives are a serious problem, as they indicate that a package has not maintained its sterile barrier when, indeed, it has. This can lead manufacturers to false assumptions about production and the package, potentially resulting in increased costs for healthcare providers and patients. Research presented here represents the first step in creating a standardized methodology for whole-package microbial challenge testing. Currently, such a test does not exist. While there are numerous physical integrity tests that a manufacturer of medical devices can employ to verify the integrity of packages before release to the market, a need exists for a standardized whole-package microbial challenge test that overcomes the difficulties associated with those of the past.
A Conceptual Framework for an Individual-Based Spatially Explicit Epidemiological Model

This paper presents a conceptual framework to formalize an individual-based and spatially explicit model of the epidemiology of infectious diseases. The framework differs from that of the traditional population-based epidemiological models in terms of assumptions, conceptual models, and model structures. In particular, the author discusses four aspects of the model: (1) population segments or unique individuals as the modeling unit, (2) continuous process or discrete events to represent the disease development through time, (3) traveling wave or network dispersion to represent the disease transmission in space, and (4) within-group and between-group interactions to represent local and long-distance transmissions. Based on these conceptual discussions, a simple influenza epidemic is simulated in order to illustrate the application of the proposed framework.
Structure and metamorphic remodeling of the larval nervous system and musculature of Phoronis pallida (Phoronida)

SUMMARY The structure of the larval nervous system and the musculature of Phoronis pallida were studied, as well as the remodeling of these systems at metamorphosis. The serotonergic portion of the apical ganglion is a U-shaped field of cell bodies that send projections into a central neuropil. The majority of the serotonergic cells are (at least) bipolar sensory cells, and a few are nonsensory cells. Catecholaminergic cell bodies border the apical ganglion. The second (hood) sense organ develops at competence and is composed of bipolar sensory cells that send projections into a secondary neuropil. Musculature of the competent larva includes circular and longitudinal muscle fibers of the body wall, as well as elevators and depressors of the tentacles and hood. The juvenile nervous system and musculature are developed prior to metamorphosis and are integrated with those of the larva. Components of the juvenile nervous system include a diffuse neural net of serotonergic cell bodies and fibers and longitudinal catecholaminergic fibers. The juvenile body wall musculature consists of longitudinal fibers that overlie circular muscle fibers, except in the cincture regions, where this pattern is reversed. Metamorphosis is initiated by the larval neuromuscular system but is completed by the juvenile neuromuscular system. During metamorphosis, the larval nervous system and the musculature undergo cell death, and the larval tentacles and gut are remodeled into the juvenile arrangement. Although the phoronid nervous system has often been described as deuterostome-like, these data show that several cytological aspects of the larval and juvenile neuromuscular systems also have protostome (lophotrochozoan) characteristics.
Eve of an ADAMTS13 breakthrough

The discovery of deficient activity of the metalloprotease now known as ADAMTS13 was a landmark development in the understanding of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). For the most common, nonfamilial subtype of TTP, demonstration of inhibitory autoantibodies as the apparent cause of ADAMTS13
Chromium-based attenuated embedded shifter preproduction

Attenuated embedded phase shifting photomask technology can improve lithography performance for both g-line and i-line steppers. Emphasis at i-line is shifting from development to production as lithographers integrate phase shifting masks into their processes. This paper describes pilot production of i-line and g-line, Cr-based, attenuated embedded phase shifter photoblanks and photomasks.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
In-plane phonons in (0 0 1) (ZnTe)8(CdSe)8 strained superlattices

Abstract In this paper phonons in ZnTe CdSe superlattices with in-plane wave-vectors are calculated by using the combination of a first-principles method and an empirical microscopic model. The macroscopic interface modes and two types of microscopic interface modes are identified, of which the second type of microscopic interface mode is a unique property of superlattices made from two consituent materials not sharing a common atom. These interface modes are discussed in detail in this paper.
The impact of asthma medication guidelines on asthma controller use and on asthma exacerbation rates comparing 1997–1998 and 2004–2005

Abstract Background The relationship between asthma controller medication use and exacerbation rates over time is unclear at the population level. Objective To estimate the change in asthma controller medication use between 2 time periods as measured by the controller-to-total asthma medication ratio and its association with changes in asthma exacerbation rates between 1997–1998 and 2004–2005. Methods The study design was a cross-sectional population-level comparison between individuals from 1997–1998 and 2004–2005. Study participants were individuals aged 5 to 56 years identified as having asthma in the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS). The main outcome measures were a controller-to-total asthma medication ratio greater than 0.5 and asthma exacerbation rates (dispensing of systemic corticosteroid or emergency department visit/hospitalization for asthma) in 1997–1998 compared with 2004–2005. Results The proportion of individuals with a controller-to-total asthma medication ratio greater than 0.5, when adjusted for other demographic factors, has improved by 16.1% (95% CI: 10.8%, 21.3%) for all individuals from 1997–1998 to 2004–2005. Annual asthma exacerbation rates did not change significantly in any group from 1997–1998 to 2004–2005 (0.27/year to 0.23/year). African American and Hispanic individuals with asthma had higher asthma exacerbation rates and a lower proportion with a controller-to-total asthma medication ratio greater than 0.5 than whites in both 1997–1998 and 2004–2005; however, these differences were not statistically significant. Conclusions An increase in asthma controller-to-total medication ratio in a sample reflective of the US population was not associated with a decreased asthma exacerbation rate comparing 1997–1998 and 2004–2005.
Array theory via a Fourier-transform operational calculus

The article presents a point of view for array-antenna analysis based on an operational calculus with two-dimensional Fourier transforms. The purpose is to describe the operational calculus, and to employ it in computing the array factor of a finite-extent phased array. Fourier-transform calculus is a very familiar subject to undergraduate electrical engineering students because of its central role in signal analysis, filter analysis and design, and in digital signal processing. The engineering control of the pattern through the parameters of the antenna configuration are particularly clear when the pattern is developed through a two-dimensional Fourier transform operational calculus.
The origin of subconductance levels in voltage-gated K+ channels.

Typical single channel recordings in voltage-dependent K+ channels show two simple conductance states: open or shut. Considering the fact that K+ channels are assembled with four identical subunits, the classical interpretation has been that the conduction pathway is not formed unless all four
Editor's puzzle: a dutch dutch auction clock auction

Solutions should be sent to the editor at conitzer@cs.duke.edu with subject header SIGecom Exchanges Puzzle. The author(s) of the most elegant solution (as judged by the editor) will be allowed to publish his or her or their proof in the next issue of the Exchanges (ties broken towards earlier submissions). To make the solution accessible to a wide audience, try to minimize technical jargon in the proof. The editor will not give any feedback on submitted solutions and ignore any requests for hints, etc.
Erratum to: What Are They Thinking? The Development and Use of an Instrument That Identifies Common Science Misconceptions

This article describes the rationale for, and development of, an online instrument that helps identify commonly held science misconceptions. Science Beliefs is a 47-item instrument that targets topics in chemistry, physics, biology, earth science, and astronomy. It utilizes a true or false, along with a written-explanation, format. The true or false responses provide a cursory view of the extent to which specific beliefs are prevalent, while the accompanying explanations reveal underlying reasons for those beliefs. The stages of instrument development, reliability and validity information, along with the original sources of the items are discussed. The developed instrument has the potential to help science educators understand some specific barriers to deepening understanding across a range of science topics.
Innovative practices session 3C: Industrial practices of test cost reduction techniques: Impact and design tradeoffs

Test cost is becoming increasingly significant percentage of COB (Cost of Build) in current SoCs (System-on-a-Chip). This is even critical in low cost markets like consumer devices. This session covers test cost reduction strategy that can be adopted on a typical semiconductor product, during design and post-silicon phases. Test cost reduction during design phase includes, adoption of right DFT (Design-For-Test) architectures and technologies, target ATE (Automated Test Equipment) selection and design for compliance for targeted ATE. DFT architectural aspects that can impact test cost reduction are multi-site configuration, concurrent tests, scan compression technology, IDDQ strategy, memory test and repair solution. Critical challenges of these techniques and design impact like gate count overhead, robust power grid design, route-ability and diagnose-ability would be covered. The impact of these techniques is quantified at SOC level, from test cost point of view.
The biological significance of taxonomies of disease.

Abstract The medical beliefs of a people have in the past been studied principally by cultural anthropologists. The focus of these studies is usually on intrasocietal dynamics and cultural relativism—a striking orientation. However, beliefs about disease are integral to the way groups have and continue to adapt, and are thus important to both social and biological scientists. In order to study the role of medical beliefs in the adaptation of the group, a comparative approach is needed. This requires viewing these beliefs more generically, comparing their symbolic properties, and analyzing how they are used in explaining and dealing with actual occurrences of disease. The concept of a taxonomy of disease is introduced, as well as the notion of different semantic regions in the taxonomy. In the attempt to clarify the biological significance of a group's taxonomy of disease, and of its mode of operation, the ideas of uncertainty and information are employed. The significance and fruitfulness of this approach is discussed.
Degradation kinetics of chlorophylls and chlorophyllides

Thermal degradation of chlorophylls and chlorophyllides in spinach puree was studied from 100 to 145°C (2–25 min) for chlorophylls and from 80 to 115°C (2.5–39 min) for chlorophyllides. The derivatives formed were: pheophorbides, pyropheophorbides, pheophytins and pyropheophytins. Degradation kinetics of chlorophylls and chlorophyllides followed a first-order kinetic model. Reaction rate data showed that the a form of both chlorophylls and chlorophyllides degraded more rapidly than the b form. Chlorophyllides were less stable than chlorophylls. Activation energies ranged from 15.0 to 22.8 Kcal/mol. A kinetic compensation effect was observed for both chlorophylls and chlorophyllides with an isokinetic temperature of 160.8°C. The relative stability of these compounds suggests that methods to maximize chlorophyllides would not be effective for improving green color stability.
Effect of thermal conductivity on the initiation, growth and bandwidth of adiabatic shear bands

Abstract We ascertain the effect of thermal conductivity on the initiation and growth of shear bands in a structural steel by analyzing the development of shear bands in a block undergoing overall adiabatic simple shearing deformations. The material of the block is assumed to exhibit strain and strain-rate hardening, and thermal softening. Three constitutive relations, namely, the Litonski law, the Bodner-Partom law, and the Johnson-Cook law, have been used to model the thermoviscoplastic response of the material. For each material model, five values of thermal conductivity differing by three orders of magnitude have been used. It is found that an increase in the value of the thermal conductivity delays the initiation and slows down the subsequent development of the shear band. For the Litonski law and Johnson-Cook law, the band width tends to zero as the thermal conductivity approaches zero. However, for the Bodner-Partom law, the band width is non-zero even when the thermal conductivity is set equal to zero.
The impact of atypical antipsychotic use on obstructive sleep apnea: a pilot study and literature review.

Background Limited evidence links atypical antipsychotics (AAs) use to sleep related respiratory dysfunction and greater severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The present paper reviews the published evidence and examines the impact of AA use on the presence and severity of OSA among subjects with clinically suspected OSA after adjusting for several confounds.
Acid Resistance of Twelve Strains of Enterobacter sakazakii, and the Impact of Habituating the Cells to an Acidic Environment

The association of powdered infant formula with cases of severe Enterobacter sakazakii infections in immunocompromised and premature neonates has led to a need to learn about the basic behavior of this emerging pathogen in food systems and the environment. The current study examines the microorganism's stationary-phase acid resistance using 12 strains that had been previously used to characterize its thermal resistance. Acid resistance was determined by initially culturing the isolates for 18 h in brain heart infusion broth (BHI) at 36 °C, transferring the cells to tryptic soy broth (TSB) adjusted to pH 3.0 and 3.5, and determining E. sakazakii survival over the course of 5 h incubation at 36 °C. At pH 3.5, 10 of the 12 strains showed less than a 1 log cycle decline over the 5-h incubation period, with the most acid sensitive strain showing an approximate 3.5 log cycle decline. At pH 3.0, the decline over the 5-h incubation period ranged from 4.9 to >6.3 log cycles; however, substantial diversity was evident when the 1-h/pH 3.0 results were compared. The effect of habituating the cells to a moderately acidic environment was determined by growing the strains in TSB with 0% (nonacidogenic) and 1% glucose (acidogenic), transferring the cells to acidified (pH 3.0) BHI, and determining E. sakazakii survival over the course of 5 h of incubation at 36 °C. While there was diversity observed among the strains, in general the stationary-phase acid resistances of several of the strains were enhanced, at least transitorily, by growth in the acidogenic medium. No apparent correlation between the stationary-phase relative acid resistances of the strains based on the 1-h/pH 3.0 acid inactivation values and the previously reported thermal D-values was observed.
Agglutination of an Arbovirus by Concanavalin A

MANY enveloped viruses contain carbohydrates as components of glycoproteins1–5 or glycolipid6. We have found (unpublished results) that the envelope of Semliki Forest virus (SFV), a group A arbovirus, contains a glycoprotein in which the principal sugars are mannose, galactose and N-acetylglucos-amine and also a glucose-containing glycolipid. It was therefore possible that the virus would react with concanavalin A, the phytohaemagglutinin from jackbean, which specifically binds sugar residues with the α-D-mannopyranoside, α-D-glucopyranoside and α-D-glucosaminyl residues, at branched or terminal non-reducing ends of polysaccharides7.
Effects of prednisone on the International Normalized Ratio

Purpose. The effects of prednisone on the International Normalized Ratio (INR) values of a patient were examined. Summary. A 66-year-old white man with a history of multiple myeloma was treated in an ambulatory care anticoagulation clinic for deep vein thrombosis. His INR values were normal during therapy with warfarin 14 mg weekly and thalidomide 300 mg daily. His INR values began to increase after three months of starting prednisone 10 mg daily. His weekly dose of warfarin was changed over the next two years, and his dietary intake of vitamin K was increased. For every INR value that was below the therapeutic goal, the patient was not taking prednisone; every time the INR value was above the therapeutic goal, he was taking prednisone. In November 2004, the prednisone and thalidomide were stopped and only the warfarin was continued. After a few dosage increases, ending with a weekly warfarin dose of 21 mg, the patient’s INR values remained in the therapeutic range. Multiple variables must be examined when assessing INR values, as many things interact with warfarin. For example, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and changes in vitamin K intake can affect the INR. Since this patient did not use tobacco or consume alcohol and had a fairly consistent dietary intake of vitamin K, these variables were ruled out as influencing the INR. In this case, the changes in his INR values corresponded to the addition or deletion of prednisone. Conclusion. A patient’s INR values increased after the addition of prednisone to his warfarin regimen.
Managing Multiple Parameter Sets in SBML

This document describes the elements of a SBML annotation, for storing multiple parameter sets in an SBML model. A user might wish to store different parameter sets that exhibit interesting behavior of computational models. One common example would be to store parameter values for steady states, or even oscillating regimes.
New results using an integrated model and recursive algorithm for image motion estimation

A linear equation in the affine parameters used to model image motion may be derived by Taylor series expansion and truncation, and windowed spatial integration. Two methods for reducing errors in the Taylor approximation are discussed and results are presented.
Metastatic renal cell carcinoma: A guide to therapy based on current evidence

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) was, until recently, considered a challenging disease to treat with few therapeutic options of limited benefit. The past few years have seen spectacular advances in the treatment of this disease based on understanding the molecular pathways behind tumor growth and angiogenesis. This progress has led to the development of targeted therapies such as the receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors sunitinib and sorafenib, the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor antibody bevacizumab, and a class of rapamycin analogues that includes temsirolimus and everolimus that have each demonstrated clinical efficacy in patients with metastatic RCC. The goal of this manuscript is to review the current evidence based on large randomized trials and propose a rationale paradigm for the treatment of this disease.
Southern green stink bug (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) feeding on Hawaiian macadamia nuts: the relative importance of damage occurring in the canopy and on the ground.

Southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.), feeding resulted in a significant increase in nut abortion rates in smaller nuts (10-28 mm diameter) but not in full-size nuts. Studies also showed that, for full-size nuts, damage can occur both in the tree canopy and on the ground, generally within 1 wk of nut drop. The magnitude of damage appears to be higher on the ground than in the canopy, suggesting that pest management programs that reduce population levels on the ground need to be implemented to decrease damage levels.
Parathyroid tumors and related disorders

Primary hyperparathyroidism (P-HPT) is a common endocrine disorder that occurs as a result of adenomas (80-85%), hyperplasias (10-15%) or carcinomas (<1%) of the parathyroid glands. Molecular genetic analyses of heritable P-HPT syndromes have provided considerable insight into the understanding of sporadic parathyroid tumors and hyperplasias. This review will focus on the criteria for classification of parathyroid proliferative disorders and will highlight our understanding of these lesions at the molecular level. Advances in radiological imaging techniques together with the rapid intraoperative parathyroid hormone assay will be reviewed with respect to current treatment approaches for P-HPT.
Elucidating the role of silica surfaces in the ring-opening polymerization of lactide: catalytic behavior of silica-immobilized zinc β-diiminate complexes

Abstract New zinc β-diiminate complexes are covalently immobilized on silica supports of different pore sizes and structures and the resulting catalysts are evaluated in the catalytic polymerization of lactide. The homogeneous complexes effectively polymerize lactide to produce high molecular weight polylactic acid (PLA) with a narrow polydispersity. The immobilized catalysts also readily convert lactide; however, only oligomeric products with moderate molecular weights are produced when the complexes are immobilized on porous silica. Control experiments indicate that surface silanols may play an important role in modulating the molecular weight of the PLA, with the surface hydroxyl groups acting as chain-transfer agents. High molecular weight, relatively monodisperse polymer can be obtained using a nonporous supported catalyst.