cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simple cryogenic temperature regulator - The Zener diode

This note describes a simple and effective method of stabilizing the temperature of a FET or other small device over the range 77°K to room temperature. By driving a Zener diode from a constant voltage source, a self‐heating effect is produced which increases sharply when the temperature falls below a preset value.
Ge CMOS: Breakthroughs of nFETs (I max =714 mA/mm, g max =590 mS/mm) by recessed channel and S/D

We report a new approach to realize the Ge CMOS technology based on the recessed channel and source/drain (S/D). Both junctionless (JL) nFETs and pFETs are integrated on a common GeOI substrate. The recessed S/D process greatly improves the Ge n-contacts. A record high maximum drain current (I max ) of 714 mA/mm and trans-conductance (g max ) of 590 mS/mm, high I on /I off ratio of 1×10 5 are archived at channel length (L ch ) of 60 nm on the nFETs. Scalability studies on Ge nFETs are conducted in sub-100 nm region down to 25 nm for the first time. Considering the Fermi level (E F ) pining near the valence band edge (EV) of Ge, a novel hybrid CMOS structure with the inversion-mode (IM) Ge pFET and the JL accumulation-mode (JAM) Ge nFET is proposed.
Fallopian Tube Catheterization

The delicate fallopian tube is the anatomic pathway to human reproduction. Simple, inexpensive tools and techniques allow radiologists to access this structure for promoting, and preventing pregnancy. Results from centers worldwide have shown that catheter recanalization is possible in ~90% of women with proximal tubal occlusion using basic angiographic techniques familiar to all interventional radiologists. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine has recommended that patients in whom the hysterosalpingogram (HSG) demonstrates proximal tubal occlusion undergo fallopian tube catheterization with selective salpingography prior to more invasive and more costly infertility treatments. The pregnancy rate following fallopian tube recanalization is as high as 60% when the unblocked tubes are found to be normal and there is no history of tubal disease. In a population where the cause of infertility is less well-defined, tubal catheterization may not only help women conceive, but may also help to better define the underlying tubal abnormality. In the prevention of unwanted pregnancy, numerous materials and devices have been tested for blocking fallopian tubes. The ESSURE coil (Conceptus, Inc., Mountain View, CA) was FDA approved in 2002 for tubal sterilization by hysteroscopic placement. In some locales, radiologists are being asked to assist with this procedure or to place the coils fluoroscopically through fallopian tube catheterization.
On the interpretation and observation of laws

A law with factors x and concomitants z specifies a distribution given z of a potential value Yx that is defined for each x whether or not it is observed. An observed distribution of Y given x and z agrees with the law if and only if, given z, the observed x is independent of Yx or, equivalently, of the joint effect of Ux of excluded variables on Yx. To establish such independence in non-experimental data requires exhaustive exploration of the effects of concomitants, causal and non-causal; R2 and F are irrelevant. We show how the model-free theory applies to linear models, time series, and simultaneous equations, and point out its Bayesian implications.
Federalism and Health Care Reform

U.S. health care reform will take a largely decentralized state-controlled approach based on the belief that decentralization leads to greater democratic responsiveness, increased state-level innovation, and administrative efficiency. This article challenges these assumptions underlying the push for decentralization by presenting a literature review of the state-controlled Medicaid program and examining the relationship between decentralization and democratic responsiveness, innovation, and administrative costs. It questions the main claim—that state-controlled programs increase democratic responsiveness—on two fronts: First, whose needs do state governments respond to? Second, do states have the financial ability to respond to local needs? The article concludes by offering some reasons why the United States continues to favor a decentralized approach and notes that, in the absence of a centralized system, the nation continues to move toward methods of micromanagement to promote efficiency and effectiveness.
Implementation and Performance of Clock Steering in a Software GPS L1 Single Frequency Receiver

ABSTRACT: This paper implements clock steering in a software GPS receiver that maintains the receiver time with a certain range from the GPS time (GPST) and reports the position/measurements on integer seconds. Recognizing that the essence of clock steering is to estimate the true sampling frequency of the receiver, this estimation could be done by using either the code or carrier phase measurements. Therefore, the quality of the code and carrier phase measurements becomes significant. The detailed algorithms for generating those two measurements in a software GPS receiver are presented. The quality of the algorithms is evaluated through the validation of the single point and carrier phase differential position solutions. The clock steering algorithms based on both the code and carrier phase are then presented and evaluated. Test results show that when the steering option is turned on, the remaining clock errors in the receiver measurements are less than 50 ns.
Non-penetrating trauma to the carotid artery with secondary thrombosis and embolism: Treatment by Thrombolysin

A case of partially occluding post-traumatic thrombosis of the internal carotid artery and secondary embolism of the middle cerebral artery is reported. The patient was treated with Thrombolysin with coincident resolution of clinical symptoms and signs and clearing of the lesions on arteriography. This may have been fortuitous.
Panel discussion on computer appreciation

Session 19 of the ACM 20th Anniversary Conference on August 31, 1967, was entitled Education, Design Experiments, and Computer Appreciation. Its second half consisted of a panel discussion on computer appreciation, organized and chaired by Elliot I. Organick. The four panelists were Charles H. Davidson, Bernard A. Galler, Richard W. Hamming, and Alan J. Perlis. After making prepared statements, the panelist were joined in discussion by Andries van Dam and Arthur B. Kahn, who had presented papers in the first half.This is a transcript of the panel discussion, condensed by Dr. Organick and edited him and the panelists. Some remarks referred to papers by van Dam and Kahn or to the discussion during the first half of the session. Pertinent papers are included in the references.
Ampere and Lorentz forces

Abstract This letter addresses the frequently made assertion of the Ampere and Lorentz force laws being mathematically identical. It is shown that, in general, the assertion is not true. At the same time both laws will predict identical net forces of repulsion and attraction between closed metallic current circuits. The difference between the two laws springs into focus when considering internal stress in a current loop rather than total force on the loop. It is concluded that the relativistic electrodynamics of convection currents is not affected by the discovery of Ampere tension, but the model of the metallic current element requires some version.
Multispectral and hyperspectral imaging with AOTF for object recognition

Acousto-optic tunable-filter (AOTF) technology has been used in the design of a no-moving parts, compact, lightweight, field portable, automated, adaptive spectral imaging system when combined with a high sensitivity imaging detector array. Such a system could detect spectral signatures of targets and/or background, which contain polarization information and can be digitally processed by a variety of algorithms. At the Army Research Laboratory, we have developed and used a number of AOTF imaging systems and are also carrying out the development of such imagers at longer wavelengths. We have carried out hyperspectral and multispectral imaging using AOTF systems covering the spectral range from the visible to mid-IR. One of the imager uses a two-cascaded collinear-architecture AOTF cell in the visible-to-near-IR range with a digital Si charge-coupled device camera as the detector. The images obtained with this system showed no color blurring or image shift due to the angular deviation of different colors as a result of diffraction, and the digital images are stored and processed with great ease. The spatial resolution of the filter was evaluated by means of the lines of a target chart. We have also obtained and processed images from another noncollinear visible-to-near-IR AOTF imager with a digital camera, and used hyperspectral image processing software to enhance object recognition in cluttered background. We are presently working on a mid-IR AOTF imaging system that uses a high- performance InSb focal plane array and image acquisition and processing software. We describe our hyperspectral imaging program and present results from our imaging experiments.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The superconducting wiggler beamport at the National Synchrotron Light Source

Abstract A beamport is currently being instrumented to utilize high energy synchrotron radiation from the superconducting wiggler magnet on the X-ray ring at the National Synchrotron Light Source. Two independent programs are being developed to run in tandem, nonconcurrently, on the central beamline: material sciences on X17B1 and medical research/angiography on X17B2. A high pressure research program will run independently on a side station. X17C. Considerations in the design of the beamline include handling severe power loading, radiation shielding protection and beam energy filtering.
Is DNA cut out for a long life

Much attention has been focused on the DNA repair hypothesis of aging. Studies in mammals that seek to test the validity of this model are complicated by both the functional redundancy and the esse...
Cardiac Sarcoidosis: Contemporary Review

Cardiac sarcoidosis can occur in up to 25% of patients with sarcoidosis in other organ systems and may present with conduction abnormalities, ventricular arrhythmias, or heart failure. This review will summarize the state of current knowledge and key questions that remain to be answered. Because cardiac sarcoidosis is a rare, complex disease, the most meaningful research will include interdisciplinary, multicenter collaborations.
The effects of research and development intensity on managerial compensation in large organizations

Abstract Agency theory, leading edge, and administrative/life cycle perspectives all predict that organizations having high levels of Research and Development (R&D) intensity will follow different compensation strategies than organizations that are less R&D intensive. Using data from 110 organizations over a 5 year period, and controlling for organization differences in employee and job characteristics, we found support for this general prediction. Specifically, high R&D intensity organizations tended to have higher relative base pay, higher relative bonus pay, and greater relative eligibility for long-term incentive payments. We discuss the importance of further research into compensation decisions in R&D intensive firms, particularly the effects of such decisions on firms' competitiveness.
Intercomponent energy transfer in incompressible homogeneous turbulence: multi-point physics and amenability to one-point closures

Intercomponent energy transfer (IET) is a direct consequence of the incompressibility-preserving action of pressure. This action of pressure is inherently non-local, and consequently its modelling must address multi-point physics. However, in second moment closures, pragmatism mandates a single-point closure model for the pressure–strain correlation, that is, the source of IET. In this study, we perform a rapid distortion analysis to demonstrate that for a given mean-flow gradient, IET is strongly dependent on fluctuation modes and critically influences the flow stability, asymptotic states and their bifurcations. The inference is that multi-point physics must be characterized and appropriately incorporated into pressure–strain correlation closures. To this end, we analyse and categorize various multi-point characteristics such as: (i) the fluctuation mode wavevector dynamics; (ii) the spectral space topology of dominant modes; and (iii) the range of IET behaviour and statistically most likely (SML) outcomes. Thence, this characterization is used to examine the validity and limitations of current one-point closures and to propose directions for improving the fidelity of future models.
A UNIFICATION-BASED SEMANTIC INTERPRETATION FOR COORDINATE CONSTRUCTS

This paper shows that a first-order unification-based semantic interpretation for various coordinate constructs is possible without an explicit use of lambda expressions if we slightly modify the standard Montagovian semantics of coordination. This modification, along with partial execution, completely eliminates the lambda reduction steps during semantic interpretation.
Clinical and immunologic effects of subcutaneously administered interleukin-12 and interferon alfa-2b: phase I trial of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma or malignant melanoma.

Purpose Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interferon alfa-2b (IFN-α-2b) are pleiotropic cytokines with activity in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and malignant melanoma (MM) as single agents. Preclinical studies suggest concurrent administration may have synergistic antitumor effects. We conducted a phase I trial of concurrent subcutaneous (SC) administration of IL-12 and IFN-α-2b in patients with metastatic RCC or MM to determine toxicity, maximum-tolerated dose, preliminary efficacy, and effects on chemokine/cytokine gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Patients and Methods Cohorts of three to six patients were treated with escalating doses of IL-12 (dose I, 100 ng/kg; dose II, 300 ng/kg; dose III, 500 ng/kg; dose IV, 500 ng/kg SC) given twice weekly and IFN-α-2b (dose I, 1.0 MU/m2; dose II, 1.0 MU/m2; dose III, 1.0 MU/m2; dose IV, 3.0 MU/m2 SC) three times weekly in 4-week cycles. Effects on gene expression were assessed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. Results Twenty-...
Probe and Adjust

How can players reach a Nash equilibrium? I offer one possible explanation in terms of a low-rationality learning method called probe and adjust by proving that it converges to strict Nash equilibria in an important class of games. This demonstrates that decidedly limited learning methods can support Nash equilibrium play.
Genetic algorithms in optimizing simulated systems

Advances have been made in optimizing quantitative variables within a simulation model, and many methodologies now exist for this purpose. However, many of the design decisions which confront a system's users involve policy alternatives. Often, variables used to represent these alternatives are not only discrete but qualitative. This work seeks to develop a simulation-optimization methodology which can operate on qualitative variables. The proposed approach is to link a genetic algorithm with an object-oriented simulation model generator. The system designs recommended by the genetic algorithm are converted to simulation models and executed. The results then guide the genetic algorithm in its selection of future designs. A simulation model generator for a class of manufacturing systems and a genetic algorithm which can interface with the generator have been developed. The methodology has shown positive results.
Long-term effects of negotiated treatment plans on self-management behaviors and satisfaction with care among women with asthma.

Objective. To examine characteristics of women with negotiated treatment plans, factors that contribute to newly forming a treatment plan, and the impact of plans on asthma management, and their satisfaction with care over 2 years. Methods. Data came from telephone interviews with 324 women with asthma at baseline, 12 and 24 months. The effect of having a negotiated treatment plan on medication adherence, asking the physician questions about asthma, asthma management self-efficacy, and satisfaction with care was assessed over 24 months. Data were analyzed using mixed models. Analyses controlled for patient characteristics. Results. Thirty-eight percent of participants reported having a negotiated treatment plan at three time points. Seeing an asthma specialist (χ2(1) = 24.07, p < .001), was associated with having a plan. Women who did not have a negotiated treatment plan at baseline, but acquired one at 12 or 24 months, were more likely to report greater urgent office visits for asthma (odds ratio (OR) = ...
Is Diabetes Mellitus a Continuous Spectrum

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus has been historically divided into type 1 and type 2 diabetes, with type 1 being an autoimmune disease and type 2 being primarily a metabolic disease. CONTENT: The current diabetes classification scheme needs to be reevaluated because of the accumulating evidence of immune system involvement in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes. SUMMARY: There are similarities and differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes with regard to pathogenesis, pathophysiology, and genetics. We propose a resolution to the dilemma of the current classification scheme.
A Remarkable Ontogenetic Change in Color Pattern in a New Species of Oreophryne (Anura: Microhylidae) from Papua New Guinea

Abstract We describe a new species of scandent/arboreal frog from Sudest Island, Louisiade Archipelago, off the southeastern tip of New Guinea that exhibits a remarkable ontogenetic change in color pattern. Juveniles are shiny black with lemon-yellow spots; adults are uniform peach with bright blue eyes. We detail the ontogenetic changes in color-pattern elements that comprise this transformation. This ontogenetic change, uniform peach adult coloration, and blue iris all appear to be unique features within the genus Oreophryne, most of whose members are tan, brown, or gray. We presume the striking juvenile color pattern to serve an aposematic function, but this conjecture requires testing. The new species is restricted to a relatively small patch of cloud forest perched on the highest peak of Sudest Island. Climate change may pose a threat to the new species if changing rainfall or temperature regimes result in the loss of this forest.
Nitroxide Paramagnet-Induced Para−Ortho Conversion and Nuclear Spin Relaxation of H2 in Organic Solvents

The kinetics of para−ortho conversion and nuclear spin relaxation of H2 in chloroform-d1 were investigated in the presence of nitroxides as paramagnetic catalysts. The back conversion from para-hydrogen (p-H2) to ortho-hydrogen (o-H2) was followed by NMR by recording the increase in the intensity of the signal of o-H2 at regular intervals of time. The nitroxides proved to be hundreds of times more effective at inducing relaxation among the spin levels of o-H2 than they are in bringing about transitions between p-H2 and the levels of o-H2. The value of the encounter distance d between H2 and the paramagnetic molecule, calculated from the experimental bimolecular conversion rate constant k0, using the Wigner theory of para−ortho conversion, agrees perfectly with that calculated from the experimental relaxivity R1 using the force free diffusion theory of spin−lattice relaxation.
Spatially opponent excitation and inhibition in simple cells of the cat visual cortex

The receptive fields of simple cells in the cat visual cortex are, by definition, divided into ON and OFF subfields. There is little doubt that each subfield is generated by excitatory input from geniculate neurons of the appropriate center type: ON subfields by ON-center cells, and OFF subfields by OFF-center cells. In intracellular records, ON subfields can be detected as regions in which light elicits a barrage of EPSPs, while in OFF subfields, turning a light off does the same. In addition, visual stimuli can evoke strong IPSPs, but these IPSPs have a receptive field spatially opponent to that of the EPSPs: Inhibition is evoked by turning a light off in an ON region and turning a light on in an OFF region. This inhibition probably arises from other cortical simple cells, and may contribute to such receptive-field properties as antagonism between subfields, binocular disparity sensitivity, and orientation selectivity.
D-serine and serine racemase are present in the vertebrate retina and contribute to the physiological activation of NMDA receptors.

d-serine has been proposed as an endogenous modulator of N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in many brain regions, but its presence and function in the vertebrate retina have not been characterized. We have detected d-serine and its synthesizing enzyme, serine racemase, in the retinas of several vertebrate species, including salamanders, rats, and mice and have localized both constituents to Muller cells and astrocytes, the two major glial cell types in the retina. Physiological studies in rats and salamanders demonstrated that, in retinal ganglion cells, d-serine can enhance excitatory currents elicited by the application of NMDA, as well as the NMDA receptor component of light-evoked synaptic responses. Application of d-amino acid oxidase, which degrades d-serine, reduced the magnitude of NMDA receptor-mediated currents, raising the possibility that endogenous d-serine serves as a ligand for setting the sensitivity of NMDA receptors under physiological conditions. These observations raise exciting new questions about the role of glial cells in regulating the excitability of neurons through release of d-serine.
The Utilization of Dental Hygiene Students in School-Based Dental Sealant Programs

Early detection of childhood caries is important to childrens9 overall health. Untreated childhood caries can lead to pain, as in abscesses from prolonged neglect; altered dietary intake; and delays in the development of the permanent teeth if the primary teeth are prematurely lost. In the summer of 2000, funds were provided to various oral health care provider organizations by the Illinois Department of Public Health, Division of Oral Health, to purchase portable equipment to deliver preventive services (i.e., exams, sealants, and oral hygiene education) to second-grade and sixth-grade children who qualified for Medicaid and/or free and reduced-cost lunch programs. The Dental Sealant Grant Program at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale was a unique program that utilized dental hygiene students as the primary human resource. Within the state, the Dental Sealant Grant Program was, at the time of this report, the only grantee sponsored by a stand-alone dental hygiene program (not affiliated with a dental school). Other positive aspects of the dental hygiene-sponsored sealant program were that the supervising dentist was the primary Medicaid provider and a member of the dental hygiene faculty; dental hygiene faculty participated actively as site coordinators and clinicians; and dental hygiene students were given the opportunity to volunteer for the program as a service-learning option.
The Effect of Solid-State Reactions Upon Solder Lap Shear Strength

The effect of solid-state reactions between gold plating and the eutectic solders 88Au:12Ge, 80Au:20Sn, 90SN:10Au, and 85Pb: 15Au and the off eutectic solder 60SN:36Pb:4Ag upon the solder lap shear strength has been investigated at four aging temperatures ranging from 75 to 150°C. Failure analysis of the lap shear samples has shown that Au-Ge and Au-Sn solders failed cohesively whereas Sn-Au, Pb-Au, and Sn-Pb-Ag solders failed adhesively. Scanning electron micrographs and microprobe analysis of gold-solder metallographic sampies aged at 125°C revealed the presence of AuSn, AuSn 2 , AuSn 4 , and voids at the plating-solder interface of Sn-Au solder. AuSn 2 and AuSn 4 intermetallic compounds were detected at the interface of SnPb-Ag solder, and AuPb 2 was detected at the interface of Pb-Au solder. The zeta phase of the Au-Sn binary system was detected at the plating-solder interface of the Au-Sn solder. The plating-solder interface of the Au-Ge solder was devoid of any intermediate phases or intermetallic compounds. The results of the lap shear measurements have shown that all five solders can be expected to exhibit adequate strength for microelectronic purposes for >105h at a sustained temperature of <100°C when the mating materials have similar coefficients of thermal expansion. However, with dissimilar thermal expansion coefficients, the SnAu and Sn-Pb-Ag solders both failed catastrophically within 103h at 100°C
Deep analysis of perception through dynamic structures that emerge in cortical activity from self-regulated noise

The statistical properties of the spontaneous background electrocorticogram (ECoG) were modeled, starting with random numbers, constraining the distributions, and identifying characteristic deviations from randomness in ECoG from subjects at rest and during intentional behaviors. The ECoG had been recorded through 8 × 8 arrays of 64 electrodes, from the surfaces of auditory, visual, or somatic cortices of 9 rabbits, and from the inferotemporal cortex of a human subject. Power spectral densities (PSD) in coordinates of log10 power versus log10 frequency of ECoG from subjects at rest usually conformed to noise in power-law distributions in a continuum. PSD of ECoG from active subjects usually deviated from noise in having peaks in log10 power above the power-law line in various frequency bands. The analytic signals from the Hilbert transform after band pass filtering in the beta and gamma ranges revealed beats from interference among distributed frequencies in band pass filtered noise called Rayleigh noise. The beats were displayed as repetitive down spikes in log10 analytic power. Repetition rates were proportional to filter bandwidths for all center frequencies. Resting ECoG often gave histograms of the magnitudes and intervals of down spikes that conformed to noise. Histograms from active ECoG often deviated from noise in Rayleigh distributions of down spike intervals by giving what are called Rice (Mathematical analysis of random noise—and appendixes—technical publications monograph B-1589. Bell Telephone Labs Inc., New York, 1950) distributions. Adding power to noise as signals at single frequencies simulated those deviations. The beats in dynamic theory are deemed essential for perception, by gating beta and gamma bursts at theta rates through enhancement of the cortical signal-to-noise ratio in exceptionally deep down spikes called null spikes.
Photopolymerization of nematic liquid crystal monomers for structural applications: Linear viscoelastic behavior and cure effects

This article is concerned with molecular orientation in liquid crystal (LC) monomers and the retention of orientation in crosslinked network polymers formed from them by photopolymerization. This is of importance because anisotropic mechanical and physical properties can be beneficial in certain structural applications. To this end, linear viscoelastic behavior of liquid crystal photo-monomers was investigated with dynamic mechanical analysis, and molecular order was studied by infrared dichroism measured with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Although the order parameter of the monomer could vary from 0.45 to 0.70, depending on temperature, the order parameters of the polymer samples varied only from 0.50 to 0.62 and depended on polymerization temperature and extent of cure. The mechanical anisotropy was found to be a complicated phenomenon that depended not only on the molecular order, but also on other factors such as free volume and network structure. The difference in the elastic modulus parallel and perpendicular to the alignment direction was as high as a factor of two in the glassy state, and a factor of three above Tg. In addition, different amounts of mechanical anisotropy could be induced by varying the cure conditions. Finally, different postcuring schemes could cause variations in mechanical behavior by advancing cure or by inducing secondary reactions. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci B: Polym Phys 36: 1081–1089, 1998
Science and Human Nature

There is a puzzling tension in contemporary scientific attitudes towards human nature. On the one hand, evolutionary biologists correctly maintain that the traditional essentialist conception of human nature is untenable; and moreover that this is obviously so in the light of quite general and exceedingly well-known evolutionary considerations. On this view, talk of human nature is just an expression of pre-Darwinian superstition. On the other hand, talk of human nature abounds in certain regions of the sciences, especially in linguistics, psychology and cognitive science. Further, it is very frequently most common amongst those cognitive-behavioral scientists who should be most familiar with the sorts of facts that putatively undermine the very notion of human nature: sociobiologists, evolutionary psychologists, and more generally, theorists working on the evolution of mind and culture.
Live Imaging of the Lung

Live imaging is critical to determining the dynamics and spatial interactions of cells within the tissue environment. In the lung, this has proven to be difficult due to the motion incurred by ventilation and cardiac contractions. In this chapter, we report protocols for imaging ex vivo live lung slices and the intact mouse lung.
Platelet transfusion for patients with cancer.

Background: Platelet transfusion is a critical and often necessary aspect of managing cancer. Low platelet counts frequently lead to bleeding complications; however, the drugs used to combat malignancy commonly lead to decreased production and destruction of the very cell whose function is essential to stop bleeding. The transfusion of allogeneic platelet products helps to promote hemostasis, but alloimmunization may make it difficult to manage other complications associated with cancer. Methods: The literature relating to platelet transfusion in patients with cancer was reviewed. Results: Platelet storage, dosing, transfusion indications, and transfusion response are essential topics for health care professionals to understand because many patients with cancer will require platelet transfusions during the course of treatment. The workup and differentiation of non–immune-mediated compared with immune-mediated platelet refractoriness are vital because platelet management is different between types of refractoriness. Conclusions: A combination of appropriate utilization of platelet inventory and laboratory testing coupled with communication between those caring for patients with cancer and those providing blood products is essential for effective patient care.
Global oil glut and sanctions: The impact on Putin’s Russia

Abstract The Russian economy is highly responsive to oil price fluctuations. At the start of 2014, the country was already suffering from the weak economic growth, partly due to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine and Western sanctions. The recent plunge in global oil prices put even further strain on the Russian economy. This paper analyzes the dynamic relationship between oil price shocks, economic sanctions, and leading macroeconomic indicators in Russia. We apply a vector autoregression (VAR) to quantify the effects of oil price shocks as well as western economic sanctions on real GDP, real effective exchange rate, inflation, real fiscal expenditures, real consumption expenditures, and external trade using quarterly data from 1999:1 until 2015:1. Our results show a significant impact of oil prices on the Russian economy. We predict that Russia’s economic outlook is not very optimistic. If sanctions remain until the end of 2017, the quarter-to-quarter real GDP will contract on average by 19 percent over the next two years.
A Review of “Teacher cognition and language education”

Teacher Cognition and Language Education is an important addition to the field of teacher cognition, in general, and language teacher education, in particular. Borg has compiled research in several...
CORONARY ARTERY ANEURYSMAL FISTULA PRESENTING WITH ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME

Coronary arteriovenous fistula is a rare defect that is mostly congenital in origin. This is a case report of a patient who presented with very unusual fistula which originates from proximal left anterior descending coronary artery aneurysmal drainage into the pulmonary artery. We are presenting a
Two Techniques for Monitoring Feeding of Large Larval Lepidoptera, with Notes on Feeding Rhythms of Late-instar Gypsy Moths (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)

An inexpensive, totally mechanical device was used for monitoring feeding of late-instar larvae of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.). A two-lever system transmits feeding motions from a freely suspended piece of artificial diet to a pen nib that writes on a rotating hygrothermograph drum. This device is suitable for monitoring feeding when a fine-grained description of feeding behavior is unnecessary. When larvae were placed into monitors and exposed to 16:8 (L:D) photoperiod, feeding occurred primarily during scotophase. Under continuous scotophase, rhythmicity of feeding was reduced but detectable throughout a 3-day test; under continuous light, feeding became essentially arrhythmic within 24 h. To monitor feeding on foliage, the electronic feeding detector of Kogan (1973) was adapted to the gypsy moth.
Some Results of Quantitative Analysis of the Institutional Patterns of Churches

gone through the press. I have looked through your letters and find no allusion to second proof, so I infer that it was in the return proof sent directly to the Press. The foreman had never received instructions to send second proof. The manager of the press was suddenly sent to the hospital where he was the first man in zoo to recover from the operation which he was the zooth to venture in that institution. The affairs of our Press dept. were sufficiently confused before this interruption, and you may imagine the subsequent conditions. I have today carefully compared the sheets with your last corrections, and I think they have strictly followed copy. I am sorry however that there was a failure to observe your direction about the revise. I think this paper and your "Ethical Aspects of Social Science"' clear the atmosphere wonderfully. You have some very unfortunate associations with some words-e.g. ethical, which make you more generally suspicious of them than seems to me necessary. I think you are too much inclined to believe in the total depravity of words of that class, which have undoubtedly been prostituted but which are worth reclaiming. I will send you the two books of which Worms wrote if you will notice them in the Nov. No. Will also return W's letter. I have my review of Giddings in the Sept. No.2 I feel as though I had only cleared the decks, without firing a gun. All that I have said is merely preliminary. I have a long catalogue of counts that I have not been able to suggest. Possibly you will say of me as I did of you'I don't see how you can say as much in praise of the book." If so, I shall quote your reply. I want to treat Giddings and his book respectfully and to give him credit for a well meant effort, but I think he needs to see himself through a different sort of medium from that in which his estimate of himself has been magnified. Ross is making a strong impression on the students here this summer.
Evaluation of Sea Island Environment Sensitivity with the Technology of GIS:A Case Study of Shengsi County

Taking the comprehensive soil erosion,water resource intimidation,water environment pollution and meteorological disasters into consideration,constructed is the evaluation system of environment sensitivity for Shengsi islands in Zhejiang Province.Using GIS technology and the method of combining positioning and quantitative analysis,the synthesized assessment of environment sensitivity of Shengsi is made.The assessment results reflect the basic island state of the environment which provides strong technical support for the rational exploitation of island resources.The results show:the sensitive areas reach 61.2% of the total land,very sensitive and highly sensitive account for 5.66% and 24.45%,moderately sensitive areas account for 31.09%,and slightly sensitive and sensitive areas account for 13.18% and 25.62%.
Metabolic Dysregulation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Challenges and Opportunities.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease for which there is no cure and treatments are at best palliative. Several genes have been linked to ALS, which highlight defects in multiple cellular processes including RNA processing, proteostasis, and metabolism. Clinical observations have identified glucose intolerance and dyslipidemia as key features of ALS; however, the causes of these metabolic alterations remain elusive. Recent studies reveal that motor neurons and muscle cells may undergo cell type-specific metabolic changes that lead to utilization of alternate fuels. For example, ALS patients’ muscles exhibit reduced glycolysis and increased reliance on fatty acids. In contrast, ALS motor neurons contain damaged mitochondria and exhibit impaired lipid beta oxidation, potentially leading to increased glycolysis as a compensatory mechanism. These findings highlight the complexities of metabolic alterations in ALS and provide new opportunities for designing therapeutic strategies based on restoring cellular energetics.
Eyes Absent Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases: A New Eukaryotic Branch of the Haloacid Dehalogenase Superfamily

Publisher Summary Eyes absent (Eya) proteins play critical roles in the growth and morphogenesis of multiple tissues in invertebrates and vertebrates. Eya is shown to possess protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) activity and establishes a novel eukaryotic family of non-thiol based PTPs. This chapter outlines the characteristic features of haloacid dehalogenase (HAD) enzymes and briefly discusses other members of the eukaryotic HAD family. It then summarizes the current understanding of Eya function in development and disease. Another important issue discussed relating to the discovery of Eya as an HAD phosphatase is whether this second activity is related to or independent from its transcriptional function. Recent evidence showing that mutation of critical Eya catalytic residues does not globally impact transactivation supports the proposal that Eya could have critical phosphatase targets outside the nucleus. Finally, the chapter discusses possible models of the relationship between the transcriptional and phosphatase activities of Eya and the potential contribution of each function to normal development. The identification of Eya substrates has great potential to lend insight into both the evolutionary diversification of Eya function and the biochemical properties of this novel family of PTPs.
Housing Recovery after Disasters: Primary versus Seasonal/Vacation Housing Markets in Coastal Communities

AbstractRecovery of seasonal housing after disasters is driven by different types of decisions and resource streams than those of year-round homes. Given the importance of seasonal rentals in the e...
The in Vitro Synthesis of Hemoglobin by Human Bone Marrow in Thalassemia

1. A technic has been described for the in vitro measurement of hemoglobin synthesis by human bone marrow. The rate of synthesis of individual hemoglobins may be investigated in this system. 2. This technic has been used to measure the rate of synthesis of hemoglobin from patients with both thalassemia trait and thalassemia major. Hemoglobin A synthesis was found to be reduced in both, and to a greater extent in thalassemia major. An apparent increase in the rate of synthesis of hemoglobin F was also noted.
Composite Materials as Solid Electrolytes

According to classical theories, when an insulator is added to an electrical conductor, the conductivity of the two phase composite decreases. However, in many cases when the particle size is small, of the order of a micron, the electrical conductivity increases. C. Liang [1] was the first to report this phenomenon for a solid electrolyte. He studied LiI containing a fine dispersion of Al2 O3 particles, LiI (Al2 O3). At room temperature, he reported an enhancement of electrical conductivity of over one order of magnitude for a 35 to 40 mole percent addition of Al2 O3. Furthermore, Liang constructed cells using LiI (Al2 O3) as the solid electrolyte, lithium as the anode and a variety of two phase iodide mixtures as the cathode materials. In each case, the open circuit voltage was virtually the theoretical voltage as calculated from the cell reaction. This showed that the electrical current was predominantly ionic and not electronic.
Integrated and Comprehensive Student Support Programs Aimed at Historically Underserved Students: Creating a Unified Community of Support

While numerous support programs have evolved to support underrepresented students in higher education, these programs are often disconnected from the curriculum and only target one area of student ...
Evaluations of Wind Effect on PV Module by Non-uniform Mechanical Loads System and Mean-Surface Pressure Pattern

The issue of typhoons has received considerable critical attention since the associated strong winds generally damaged PV modules severely. Previous IEC standards examined the effect of static uniform-loads (IEC 61215-2:2016) or dynamic uniform-loads (IEC TS 62782:2016) on PV module in low wind-velocity, but overlooked the moment effect or non-uniform loads due to wind actions on PV module, especially in high wind-velocity. Therefore, the challenge is how to improve the current mechanical loads system to meet the test requirements due to strong wind such as typhoon’s action on PV module. This work has successfully developed a new test capacity named non-uniform mechanic loads (NUML) system, which owns eighteen (3x6) independent pneumatic cylinders with maximum loading up to ±12000 Pa (pressure load”+”, suction load”-“). NUML system can operate the different wind effect by the simulated data named mean surface-pressure pattern (MSPP) for PV module. All MSPPs can also be evaluated directly by wind-tunnel experiment and CFD simulation. Results of this study revealed that such severity wind-test for PV module strongly relied on the choices of major environmental factors such as wind velocity (V), wind direction angle (β) and inclined angle (α). In addition, the failures of the module and its fixtures, after NUML test, are closely related to the external forces such as MSPP (V, α, β).
XRF techniques to quantify heavy metals in vegetables at low detection limits

Abstract Sample preparation techniques, measurement routines and custom calibrations were developed and optimized for the quantification of Pb and additional heavy metals in dried and wet consumable vegetable tissues via WD-XRF and/or portable ED-XRF spectroscopy. After mitigating matrix influences fundamental to XRF quantification of heavy metals in a carbon matrix, the custom measurement and calibration routines were capable of detecting and quantifying Pb in dried prepared vegetable samples at concentrations relevant to the World Health Organization. The viability of each calibration was evaluated with measurements of vegetables grown in metals-rich garden soil collected from residential properties. Although robust calibrations for dried vegetables were obtained with WD-XRF, the slight compromise in the precision and accuracy of measurements with portable ED-XRF is offset by the portability of this technology. Heavy metal concentrations in wet coarsely-homogenized raw consumable vegetable tissues were quantified; however, further work is needed to test the viability of ED-XRF calibrations.
Do Consumers Use the Same Quality Dimensions when Evaluating Products from Different Countries

There is general consensus that purchase Intention is strongly influenced by perceived value. Perceived value, in turn, appears to depend on perceived quality and perceived price. While there has been more attention devoted to the perceived price issue than to perceived quality, researchers have identified key dimensions of perceived quality that consumers may use. Using survey data from Austrian consumers, this paper explores whether the quality dimensions consumers may use are uniform across products from different countries.
Adult preoperative preparation: equipment and monitoring

Patient preoperative instructions should include directions on what medications to take prior to the procedure, fasting, what to wear, and what to have available once the procedure is finished. Patients should be told when their surgery is likely to occur and at what time they should arrive at the facility. They should be told what to bring, such as glasses in case they need to read a consent form and a hearing aid so they can understand instructions. Patients should be told not to bring valuables and jewelry, to avoid loss or theft. Rings should be taped on. Whether patients should be required to shower before a procedure depends on patient and facility preference.
Carboxypeptidase B2 Is Protective in a Mouse Model of Shiga Toxin-Induced Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is characterized by a triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure. The most common cause of HUS is Shiga toxin (STX)-producing E. coli, and eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody against complement C5, has shown clinical efficacy in some patients. Carboxypeptidase B2 (CPB2) is a metalloprotease activated by the thrombin/thrombomodulin complex that inactivates a number of inflammatory mediators, including complement C3a, and C5a by removing their C-terminal arginine. We hypothesized that in a murine model of STX-induced HUS, Cpb2-/- mice would have exacerbated disease compared to wild type (WT) mice due to excessive C3a and/or C5a in the absence of CPB2. A mouse model of STX-induced HUS was established by giving STX and LPS toxins intraperitoneally. Cpb2-/- mice had worse survival than WT (37% survival vs. 87% at 48h, p=0.0156). At 48h, severe thrombocytopenia developed in both WT and Cpb2-/- mice (WT: 0.096x106/μL; Cpb2-/- : 0.054x106/μL) compared to controls (1.2x106/μL; p>0.0001 vs. either WT or Cpb2-/- ), with Cpb2-/- mice showing worse thrombocytopenia. Renal insufficiency was worse in Cpb2-/- mice than WT mice (BUN at 48h: 85 mg/dL vs. 37 mg/dL, p=0.0074; creatinine: 1.33 mg/dL vs. 0.23 mg/dL; p=0.0112, for Cpb2-/- and WT mice respectively, compared with normal baseline BUN and creatinine of 19 mg/dL and 0.1 mg/dL). Cpb2-/- mice developed worse anemia than WT (hemoglobin 9.8 g/dL vs. 12.4 g/dL, p=0.001 in Cpb2-/- vs. WT mice respectively). At 48h, liver function was worse in Cpb2-/- mice than WT mice, while plasma LDH was increased in Cpb2-/- mice more than WT mice. Using a standardized health score, the Cpb2-/- mice were worse than WT mice at all time points. Thus this model recapitulates STX-induced HUS with the Cpb2-/- mice having worse disease than WT. If the animals were treated with STX alone, there were no deaths in either genotype at 48h and only 37.5% mortality in Cpb2-/- mice by 60h compared with no deaths in WT mice. BUN, creatinine, liver enzymes and LDH were increased in both genotypes treated with STX alone compared to untreated mice, but there was no significant difference between the genotypes. Treatment with LPS alone caused thrombocytopenia in both WT and Cpb2-/- mice and LDH, BUN and creatinine levels were higher in Cpb2-/- mice than in WT mice, but there was no death at 48h and no drop in hemoglobin. Thus while either STX alone or LPS alone caused pathological conditions in the mice, the typical triad of HUS was only present when STX and LPS were given in combination. The Cpb2-/- mice had worse disease than WT mice consistent with our hypothesis on the role of CPB2 in inactivating C3a and/or C5a in STX-induced HUS. The potential efficacy of C3a and/or C5a blockade and anti-thrombotic agents will be tested in this model. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.