cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Redefining the English Major: adding strength to strength

Harvard served as a model for English Departments in the past and, with its 2008–2009 changes, it seems to take the mantle in providing yet another model. However, I propose a much more radical approach to creating an undergraduate ‘English’ curriculum that does more than push the boundaries of traditional study of English literatures. I propose a complete redefinition of the English Major. Those who are currently ‘English’ Majors seem to be increasingly less concerned with studying a national literary tradition, but seek a world literary tradition. My proposal, thus, changes the name of the department and the major to Department of Literature and Language. Harvard’s new model is a start, but it still centres the study of literature and language on one literature and one language, English, and, thus, continues to offer a half solution.
A new methodology to address the growing productivity gap in analog design

The larger challenge for today's design teams is to improve productivity while differentiating their products to take advantage of silicon advances and doing so within an uncertain environment. New analog mixed signal design methodologies are needed that can ensure design intent is met and that the layout is electrically correct by construction. This paper proposes an electrically aware design methodology that may reduce design time by as much as 30% and allow designers to take greater advantage of new advances in silicon technology.
Significance of sedimentary phosphorus to a rooted submersed macrophyte (Najas flexilis (Willd.) Rostk. and Schmidt) and its algal epiphytes

Abstract Seedlings of a submersed angiosperm were grown to mature size in small, calcareous sediment-water systems labelled with radiophosphorus to reveal long-term patterns of phosphorus uptake, translocation to shoots, and utilization by algal epiphytes. Shoots of Najas flexilis (Willd.) Rostk. and Schmidt derived P almost exclusively from the sediment (>99%) and released P only sparingly to epiphytes and water (c. 2% of cumulative uptake after 5 weeks). Release of P averaged 3.5 μg P g −1 shoot dry wt (DW) day 1 . Release was independent of shoot P concentrations over the range 0.12–0.54% DW, which was induced by varying P availability to roots. Nuclear track microautoradiography using 33 P was applied to compare utilization of macrophyte-derived P by several epiphytic taxa. Filamentous Mougeotia and long-stalked Gomphonema depended more on the external, P-poor lakewater medium than did small adnate forms like Achnanthes (respectively 20 and 60% of cell P from the host macrophyte). Epiphytic participation in the open-water P cycle, ultimately helps to sustain the apparently independent P cycle of rooted macrophytes, by increasing P deposition as littoral sediment.
Matrix scaling, entropy minimization, and conjugate duality. I. existence conditions

Abstract We have four primary objectives in this paper. First, we introduce a problem called truncated matrix scaling that generalizes two well-studied matrix scaling problems—diagonal similarity scaling and fixed row-column equivalence scaling. Second, we derive necessary and sufficient conditions for the attainment of the infimum in the Fenchel dual of a class of convex optimization problems. Third, we show that existence of a solution for truncated matrix scaling is equivalent to the attainment of the infimum in a corresponding dual optimization problem. We thereby derive necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a solution for truncated matrix scaling. Fourth, we derive known existence conditions for similarity and equivalence scaling from the conditions for truncated matrix scaling.
Left ventricular filling abnormalities in asymptomatic morbid obesity

Indexes of left ventricular (LV) diastolic filling were measured by pulse Doppler echocardiography in 16 asymptomatic morbidly obese patients presenting for bariatric surgery and were compared with an age- and sex-matched lean control population. No patient had concomitant disorders known to affect diastolic function. All patients had normal systolic function. LV wall thickness and internal dimension were measured in order to calculate LV mass. Fifty percent of morbidly obese patients had LV diastolic filling abnormalities as assessed by the presence of ≥2 abnormal variables of mitral inflow velocity. The ratio of peak early to peak late (atrial) filling velocity was significantly decreased in obese compared with control patients (1.16 ± 0.26 vs 1.66 ± 0.30, p < 0.001). The peak velocity of early LV diastolic filling was significantly reduced in obese patients (75 ± 15 vs 98 ± 19 cm/s, p < 0.001). The atrial contribution to stroke velocity as assessed by the time-velocity integral of late compared with total LV diastolic filling was significantly increased in obese patients (36 ± 7 vs 27 ± 4%, p < 0.001). Obese patients had significantly increased LV mass (214 ± 45 vs 138 ± 37 g, p < 0.001), even when corrected for body surface area (95 ± 16 vs 76 ± 16 g/m2, p < 0.002). However, increased LV mass did not correlate with indexes of abnormal diastolic filling in obese patients. These data suggest that abnormalities of diastolic function occur frequently in asymptomatic morbidly obese patients and may represent a subclinical form of cardiomyopathy in the obese patient.
EXAMINING THE (IR)RELEVANCE OF AGGREGATION BIAS FOR MULTILEVEL STUDIES OF NEIGHBORHOODS AND CRIME WITH AN EXAMPLE COMPARING CENSUS TRACTS TO OFFICIAL NEIGHBORHOODS IN CINCINNATI

Different operational definitions of neighborhood boundaries could generate differences in empirical relationships between ecological dynamics and crime. As a call for research on whether aggregation bias is an issue for related studies, this note compares bi-level models predicting re-arrest for domestic violence with census tracts versus officially defined city neighborhoods as macro units. Results indicate that both types of units generate the same substantive findings at the aggregate and individual levels of analysis. Similarities also exist between these results and those from previous multilevel studies of crime and victimization despite differences in the aggregate units across studies (including block groups).
Novel two-variable approximants for studying magnetic multicritical behavior

Abstract Series expansions in two variables, e.g. χ (T, H) = ∑ jk a jk ( J k B T ) j ( mH k B T k ) , are important in studying magnetism but established extrapolation methods (e.g. ratio, Pade, and Canterbury techniques) fail near multicritical points. A novel method of series extrapolation is explained which can exactly represent the expected two-variable, two-exponent (γ, φ), asymptotic scaling behavior.
Low‐frequency characteristics of wave group–forced vortices

[1] The dynamics of vorticity motions forced by wave groups incident on an alongshore-uniform barred beach are analyzed. For both normally and obliquely incident wave groups, the potential vorticity and enstrophy equations reveal that the temporal variability of wave group–forced vortices is directly linked to the variability in the incoming wave groups rather than bottom friction, as previously hypothesized. Analysis of the lifespan of individual vortices further shows that the wave group forcing is responsible for not only the temporal variations of the vortices but also their eventual demise. Vortices in the simulations persist for 5 to 45 min, which is consistent with recent field observations. For oblique wave groups, the resulting vortices are advected by the mean current, yielding a signature in the frequency–wave number spectrum that is similar to that usually attributed to shear instabilities of the alongshore current. These results may explain previous observations of alongshore-propagating vorticity motions in the presence of a stable alongshore current. For simulations involving an unstable alongshore current, we find that the inclusion of wave group forcing results in velocity spectra that are much broader compared to the simulations that neglect wave grouping, which could explain discrepancies between previously observed and modeled spectral widths of propagating vorticity motions. Finally, the potential enstrophy balance shows that vorticity production due to wave groups may be as important as that due to the instability process and that not all low-frequency vortical motions observed during oblique wave incidence should be attributed to shear instabilities of the alongshore current.
A gastrin-releasing peptide receptor mediates the itch sensation in the spinal cord

Itching, or pruritus, is defined as an unpleasant cutaneous sensation that serves as a physiological self-protective mechanism to prevent the body from being hurt by harmful external agents. Chronic itch represents a significant clinical problem resulting from renal diseases and liver diseases, as well as several serious skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis. The identity of the itch-specific mediator in the central nervous system, however, remains elusive. Here we describe that the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR) plays an important part in mediating itch sensation in the dorsal spinal cord. We found that gastrin-releasing peptide is specifically expressed in a small subset of peptidergic dorsal root ganglion neurons, whereas expression of its receptor GRPR is restricted to lamina I of the dorsal spinal cord. GRPR mutant mice showed comparable thermal, mechanical, inflammatory and neuropathic pain responses relative to wild-type mice. In contrast, induction of scratching behaviour was significantly reduced in GRPR mutant mice in response to pruritogenic stimuli, whereas normal responses were evoked by painful stimuli. Moreover, direct spinal cerebrospinal fluid injection of a GRPR antagonist significantly inhibited scratching behaviour in three independent itch models. These data demonstrate that GRPR is required for mediating the itch sensation rather than pain, at the spinal level. Our results thus indicate that GRPR may represent the first molecule that is dedicated to mediating the itch sensation in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, and thus may provide a central therapeutic target for antipruritic drug development.
Truss influence lines on a time sharing system

Abstract A computer program is presented for finding influence lines for plane truss member forces on a time sharing system. The program is interactive; requesting data from the user as needed. The output can consist of either printed influence line ordinales on a printing terminal or plotted influence lines on a graphic terminal.
Experimental Verification of Smart Cable Damping

Stay cables, such as are used in cable-stayed bridges, are prone to vibration due to their low inherent damping characteristics. Transversely attached passive viscous dampers have been implemented in many bridges to dampen such vibration. However, only minimal damping can be added if the attachment point is close to the bridge deck. For longer bridge cables, the relative attachment point becomes increasingly smaller, and passive damping may become insufficient. A recent analytical study by the authors demonstrated that “smart” semiactive damping can provide increased supplemental damping. This paper experimentally verifies a smart damping control strategy employing H2 ∕linear quadratic Gaussian (LQG) clipped optimal control using only force and displacement measurements at the damper for an inclined flat-sag cable. A shear mode magnetorheological fluid damper is attached to a 12.65 m inclined flat-sag steel cable to reduce cable vibration. Cable response is seen to be substantially reduced by the smart da...
Medical Toxicologist Attitudes on Compensation for Services Provided to Poison Control Centers

To the Editor, Little is known regarding medical toxicologists' financial compensation by poison control centers (PCCs) in the United States or about toxicologist attitudes regarding compensation. Our aim was to survey and describe the opinions of American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT) member toxicologists regarding their compensation by PCCs. The ACMT practice committee conducted an anonymous survey of all ACMT members. Three times between July and September 2008, ACMT members were contacted by e-mail and asked to fill out an online survey. An additional attempt was made to collect survey responses at the ACMT national meeting. No compensation was provided for study participation. The survey format was designed to be short and simple in order to maximize response rates. One hundred fifty-two ACMT members provided survey responses (27.6%). Forty (26.2%) respondents described themselves as poison center directors, 24 (15.8%) as associate/assistant directors, 51 (33.6%) as poison center consultants, and 17 (%) as providing teaching/administrative services. Twenty (13.2%) respondents reported having no poison center involvement. Of those respondents without PCC involvement, 14 (70%) reported being geographically distant from their PCC. All respondents felt that toxicology consultations provided by medical toxicologists were useful (100%). One hundred twenty-seven (84.1%) strongly agreed and 24 agreed (15.9%) with this statement. One hundred fortyeight (97.4%) agreed that medical toxicologists should be compensated for their time. Only two respondents (1.3%) disagreed. One hundred six respondents (70.2%) disagreed with the statement that toxicologists are fairly compensated for providing services to poison centers. Thirty-seven (24.5%) of those “strongly disagreed.” Only 34 respondents (22.5%) felt that toxicologists are fairly compensated for their work. Sixty-three (48.5%) respondents reported “always” being compensated for their work at poison centers, whereas 36 (27.7%) reported that they “never” were. Of those identified as PCC directors, 31 (77.5%) reported always being compensated for their work. Only two (5%) reported never being compensated. However, only 16 (40%) of PCC directors felt that they were fairly compensated. Of nonPCC directors, only 20 (29.9%) reported that they are always compensated for their work. Thirty-three (49.3%) of nonPCC directors reported never getting compensation. Only 13 (18.8%) felt that toxicologists are fairly compensated. Our survey is limited by its low response rate, which limits our ability to extrapolate our findings to all ACMT member toxicologists. Some of the low response rate that we experienced may be related to ACMT members who do not provide services to a PCC or those receiving no compensation for their work. These particular members may not have responded because they felt the survey did S. R. Offerman California Poison Control System, Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
Fission Anisotropies and Sequential Fission

The fusion-fission contributions to /sup 16/0+/sup 209/Bi and /sup 16/0+/sup 238/U are estimated. (AIP)
Effect of ethyl alcohol infusions on glucose and hormone status in ovine pregnancy

Abstract Term pregnant ewes were given ethanol in dextrose water i.v. according to the usual 2-h loading dose recommended for premature labor. Glucose, insulin, cortisol, progestins, estrone and estradiol in maternal and fetal plasma were measured for 5 h. In both treated animals and controls (dextrose water only) there was a reduction in maternal cortisol and a reduction followed by a rise in progesterone concentration. Mean concentration of insulin in maternal plasma across all sampling times was higher in ethanol treated animals.
Marine Information Service: An Integral Approach

This paper describes the design and operation of a regional service office in Alaska. A new approach is presented for joint federal and state participation in a user-funded facility. Case studies emphasize the benefits of the design and operation. Transfer of this expertise is outlined in the concluding remarks.
Post‐transfusion purpura and isoimmune neonatal thrombocytopenia in the same family

Post-transfusion purpura and isoimmune neonatal thrombocytopenia are rare and unusual syndromes leading to severe thrombocytopenia. In both disorders the PLA1 platelet antigen is involved in the pathogenesis. A 41-year-old woman with an obstetrical history of isoimmune neonatal thrombocytopenia in two of her children developed post-transfusion purpura following a transfusion of packed red blood cells. Despite the apparent link in these two disorders associated with the PLA1 platelet antigen, this is the first reported case of post-transfusion purpura and isoimmune neonatal thrombocytopenia occurring in the same family.
New understanding of the molecular mechanism of receptor-mediated genomic actions of the vitamin D hormone

The nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR) binds the 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3]hormone with high affinity and elicits its actions to regulate gene expression in target cells by binding to vitamin D-responsive elements (VDREs). VDREs in positively controlled genes such as osteocalcin, osteopontin, beta 3-integrin, and vitamin D-24-OHase are direct hexanucleotide repeats with a spacer of three nucleotides. The VDR associates with these VDREs with the greatest affinity as a heterodimer with one of the family of retinoid X receptors (RXRs). VDR consists of an N-terminal zinc finger domain that determines DNA binding, a "hinge" segment and a C-terminal hormone binding domain which also contains two conserved regions that engage in heterodimerization with an RXR on the VDRE. The role of the 1,25(OH)2D3 ligand in transcriptional activation by the VDR-RXR heterodimer is to alter the conformation of the hormone-binding domain of VDR to facilitate strong dimerization with RXR, which results in ligand-enhanced association with the VDRE. Thus RXR is recruited into a heterocomplex by liganded VDR. The natural ligand for the RXR coreceptor, 9-cis retinoic acid, suppresses both VDR-RXR binding to the VDRE and 1,25(OH)2D3-stimulated transcription, indicating that 9-cis retinoic acid diverts RXR away from being the silent partner of VDR to instead form RXR homodimers. Recent data reveal that after binding RXR, a subsequent target for VDR in the vitamin D signal transduction cascade is basal transcription factor IIB (TFIIB).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
A robust compensator design by frequency-shaped estimation

Conclusions A computationally efficient algorithm has been presented for obtaining the complex Fourier transform of a class of vector functions that frequently occur in modern control theory. The basic algorithm requires 1) the evaluation of a single matrix exponential for the dynamics of the time-varying control; 2) the solution for either the right and left eigenvectors or a real Schur decomposition of the constant control dynamics matrix; 3) the sequential solution for the reducing subspace transformation vector p; and 4) the evaluation of a single scalar complex exponential.
Low Temperature Catalyst for NH3 Removal

Air revitalization technologies maintain a safe atmosphere inside spacecraft by the removal of C02, ammonia (NH3), and trace contaminants. NH3 onboard the International Space Station (ISS) is produced by crew metabolism, payloads, or during an accidental release of thermal control refrigerant. Currently, the ISS relies on removing NH3 via humidity condensate and the crew wears hooded respirators during emergencies. A different approach to cabin NH3 removal is to use selective catalytic oxidation (SCO), which builds on thermal catalytic oxidation concepts that could be incorporated into the existing TCCS process equipment architecture on ISS. A low temperature platinum-based catalyst (LTP-Catalyst) developed at KSC was used for converting NH3 to H20 and N2 gas by SCO. The challenge of implementing SCO is to reduce formation of undesirable byproducts like NOx (N20 and NO). Gas mixture analysis was conducted using FTIR spectrometry in the Regenerable VOC Control System (RVCS) Testbed. The RVCS was modified by adding a 66 L semi-sealed chamber, and a custom NH3 generator. The effect of temperature on NH3 removal using the LTP-Catalyst was examined. A suitable temperature was found where NH3 removal did not produce toxic NO, (NO, N02) and N20 formation was reduced.
Between fanaticism and loyalty: Algerian prisoners within the French Mediterranean Empire

The violent military method of colonisation embraced by French governors general such as Thomas Bugeaud and the violent resistance espoused by local leaders such as ʿAbd al-Qādir have received the lion's share of attention in the existing scholarship on the first two decades of French rule in Algeria. Although some scholars have emphasised that a number of Algerians had become an integral part of the French army and fought on the French side in many important battles, indigenous notables' ideas on French imperialism, the civilising mission and their sense of loyalty remain opaque. This article examines the writings of a number of influential Algerian leaders who experienced captivity in the colonial prison in southern France during the 1840s and redefined their sense of loyalty as a result of that experience. Most of them jettisoned ʿAbd al-Qādir's ideology of violent resistance and attempted to prove their loyalty to France by pointing to their military service and their belief in the benefits of the Fre...
Application of conductive polymer analysis for wood and woody plant identifications

An electronic aroma detection (EAD) technology known as conductive polymer analysis (CPA) was evaluated as a means of identifying and discriminating woody samples of angiosperms and gymnosperms using an analytical instrument (electronic nose) that characterizes the aroma profiles of volatiles released from excised wood into sampled headspace. The instrument measures electrical-resistance changes generated by adsorption of volatiles to the surface of electroactive, polymer-coated sensors. Unique digital electronic fingerprints of wood aromas, derived from multisensor-responses to distinct mixtures of wood volatiles, were obtained from woods of individual tree species. A reference library containing aroma signature patterns for 23 tree species was constructed for identifications of unknown samples using pattern-recognition algorithms. The 32-sensor array used with an Aromascan A32S instrument was sensitive to a wide diversity of organic compounds and produced outputs of distinct electronic aroma signature patterns in response to wood volatiles that effectively identified unknown samples from individual tree species included in the reference library. Some potential applications of CPA methods for research in ecology, forestry, plant taxonomy, and related disciplines were identified with some significant advantages and limitations. Other applications of this technology were discovered for the management of forested stands and ecosystems based on the identification of roles that wood-inhabiting organisms play in stand dynamics and long-term ecosystem functions. Results pertaining to tree systematics and phylogeny are discussed in the context of prevailing opinions of oak taxonomy.
Engendrando desenvolvimento e etnicidade nas terras baixas do Pacífico colombiano

Neste ensaio, exploro como as organizacoes e redes de mulheres afro-colombianas moldam e sao moldadas por iniciativas do Estado para desenvolver e modernizar a regiao do Pacifico. Argumento que, agindo assim, elas mobilizam e vao alem da retorica desenvolvimentista do Estado e do discurso de uma etnia negra 'gendrada' e da tradicao das organizacoes politicas negras da regiao.
Improving Random Respondent Selection in Telephone Surveys

A split-ballot respondent selection experiment was conducted on a probability sample of Illinois residents surveyed by telephone. Respondent selection was conducted in two ways: in a random half of...
A high-speed low-power JFET pull-down ECL circuit

An active pull-down output stage that utilizes a composite junction FET (JFET), applied in a high-speed low-power emitter-coupled logic (ECL) circuit, is described. The composite JFET structure is produced by modifying the existing bipolar transistor layout so that a p-channel JFET is formed next to an n-p-n transistor without need of any extra process steps. This p-channel JFET is a four-terminal device: the intrinsic base region defines the channel, the two separate extrinsic bases become the source and drain, the emitter region is the primary gate, and the collector is used as the back gate. The JFET has the same doping profile as the n-p-n bipolar transistor in the intrinsic device region. Simulation results based on a 0.8- mu m double poly-Si, self-aligned bipolar technology indicate that the circuit with a typical loading at a power consumption of 1 mW per gate offers a 24% improvement in the pull-down delay and a 53% improvement in the load driving capability compared with the conventional ECL circuit. >
Analytic Solution for Charge Transport and Chemical‐Potential Variation in Single‐Layer and Multilayer Devices of Different Mixed‐Conducting Oxides

Transport phenomena are described involving one mobile ionic species (oxygen ions) and electronic carriers (electrons and holes) in single- and multilayer devices of different mixed-conducting oxides under the influence of an external load and an oxygen-chemical-potential gradient. The analysis utilizes the intrinsic ionic and electronic transport properties of the oxide layers and explicitly computes the ionic and electronic fluxes, the potential drop across the layers, and the chemical-potential variation in the layers. Some limiting cases are solved to illustrate the generality of the analysis. Based on this analysis, the accuracy, limitations, and physical significance of using an equivalent circuit to represent transport in such devices are discussed. The engineering implications of the analysis, in terms of designing efficient, stable devices with layered structures for fuel cells, sensors, separation membranes, and batteries, are also provided.
Palmitate Inhibits Insulin Gene Expression by Altering PDX-1 Nuclear Localization and Reducing MafA Expression in Isolated Rat Islets of Langerhans

Abnormalities in lipid metabolism have been proposed as contributing factors to both defective insulin secretion from the pancreatic beta cell and peripheral insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes. Previously, we have shown that prolonged exposure of isolated rat islets of Langerhans to excessive fatty acid levels impairs insulin gene transcription. This study was designed to assess whether palmitate alters the expression and binding activity of the key regulatory factors pancreas-duodenum homeobox-1 (PDX-1), MafA, and Beta2, which respectively bind to the A3, C1, and E1 elements in the proximal region of the insulin promoter. Nuclear extracts of isolated rat islets cultured with 0.5 mm palmitate exhibited reduced binding activity to the A3 and C1 elements but not the E1 element. Palmitate did not affect the overall expression of PDX-1 but reduced its nuclear localization. In contrast, palmitate blocked the stimulation of MafA mRNA and protein expression by glucose. Combined adenovirus-mediated overexpression of PDX-1 and MafA in islets completely prevented the inhibition of insulin gene expression by palmitate. These results demonstrate that prolonged exposure of islets to palmitate inhibits insulin gene transcription by impairing nuclear localization of PDX-1 and cellular expression of MafA.
Developing a Performance Appraisal System

Believing that the foundation of any performance enhancement program, productivity improvement effort, or career development program is a sound performance appraisal system, several years ago we formed a task force of line managers whose charge was to design an appraisal system which would be successful in Pfizer Central Research-US—an organization of approximately 1300 people most of whom are involved in basic research for the pharmaceutical, agricultural, and chemical operating divisions of Pfizer Inc. The system which resulted calls for three different ‘appraisal events’ during the year: a Self-Appraisal, a Performance Appraisal, and a midyear Progress Review. The task force felt that for the new system to function successfully, it was important that people regard it as important, understand what it is, and feel as comfortable as possible during the three supervisor-supervisee appraisal discussions. To help insure that these stipulations be met, the new system was announced by the President of the Division, a booklet describing it was written and distributed to all employees, and two training programs (one for supervisors and one for supervisees) were designed and conducted. The full annual cycle has been in effect for two years and the feedback we receive is positive. Now that this component is in place, we see the next logical step to be to move aggressively into designing a more specific approach to career development.
The Resonating Star Gyroscope: A Novel Multiple-Shell Silicon Gyroscope With Sub-5 deg/hr Allan Deviation Bias Instability

We report on the design, fabrication and characterization of a novel multiple-shell silicon vibratory microgyroscope. The resonating star gyroscope (RSG) is formed as a merged superposition of two square shells, yielding in-plane flexural modes that are utilized to sense rotation along the normal axis. The first prototypes of the single-shell RSG were implemented with 65 mum thick trench-refilled polysilicon structural material using the HARPSS process. These devices exhibited open-loop rate sensitivity of approximately 800 muV/deg/s. Despite high-aspect ratio sensing gaps, the device yielded poor sensitivity caused by low resonant-mode quality factors. To alleviate the Q TED losses caused by the inevitable formation of voids in trench-refilled structural material, the RSG was implemented in (111) single crystalline silicon. A 2.5-mm multiple-shell RSG was fabricated in 40 mum-thick SOI device layer using a simple two-mask process. Multiple-shells enable a higher operating frequency and larger resonant mass, essential components for reducing the mechanical noise floor of the sensor. Experimental data of a high-Q (111) multiple-shell prototype indicates sub-5 deg/hr Brownian noise floor, with a measured Allan deviation bias drift of 3.5 deg/hr. The gyroscope exhibits an open-loop rate sensitivity of approximately 16.7 mV/deg/s in vacuum.
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis and Antiretroviral Resistance: HIV Prevention at a Cost?

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), the use of antiretrovirals (ARVs) by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐ uninfected individuals to prevent acquisition of the virus during high-risk sexual encounters, enjoyed its first 2 major successes with the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) 004 and the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Initiative (iPrEx). These successes were buoyed by additional positive results from the TDF2 and Partners PrEP trials. Although no seroconverters in either arm of CAPRISA developed resistance to tenofovir, 2 participants in iPrEx with undetected, seronegative acute HIV infection were randomized to receive daily oral tenofovir-emtricitabine and resistance to emtricitabine was later discovered in both men. A similar case in the TDF2 study resulted in resistance to both ARVs. These cases prompted us to examine existing literature on the nature of resistance mutations elicited by ARVs used for PrEP. Here, we discuss the impact of signature mutations selected by PrEP, how rapidly these emerge with daily ARV exposure, and the individual-level and public health consequences of ARV resistance.
Dense, bounded shear flows of agitated solid spheres in a gas at intermediate Stokes and finite Reynolds numbers

We consider moderately dense bounded shear flows of agitated homogeneous inelastic frictionless solid spheres colliding in a gas between two parallel bumpy walls at finite particle Reynolds numbers, volume fractions between 0.1 and 0.4, and Stokes numbers large enough for collisions to determine the velocity distribution of the spheres. We adopt a continuum model in which constitutive relations and boundary conditions for the granular phase are derived from kinetic theory, and in which the gas contributes a viscous dissipation term to the fluctuation energy of the grains. We compare its predictions to recent lattice-Boltzmann (LB) simulations. The theory underscores the role played by the walls in the balances of momentum and fluctuation energy. When particle inertia is large, the solid volume fraction is nearly uniform, thus allowing us to treat the rheology using unbounded flow theory with an effective shear rate, while predicting slip velocities at the walls. When particle inertia decreases or fluid inertia increases, the solid volume fraction becomes increasingly heterogeneous. In this case, the theory captures the profiles of volume fraction, mean and fluctuation velocities between the walls. Comparisons with LB simulations allow us to delimit the range of parameters within which the theory is applicable.
Structure-function studies of STAR family Quaking proteins bound to their in vivo RNA target sites

Mammalian Quaking (QKI) and its Caenorhabditis elegans homolog, GLD-1 (defective in germ line development), are evolutionarily conserved RNA-binding proteins, which post-transcriptionally regulate target genes essential for developmental processes and myelination. We present X-ray structures of the STAR (signal transduction and activation of RNA) domain, composed of Qua1, K homology (KH), and Qua2 motifs of QKI and GLD-1 bound to high-affinity in vivo RNA targets containing YUAAY RNA recognition elements (RREs). The KH and Qua2 motifs of the STAR domain synergize to specifically interact with bases and sugar-phosphate backbones of the bound RRE. Qua1-mediated homodimerization generates a scaffold that enables concurrent recognition of two RREs, thereby plausibly targeting tandem RREs present in many QKI-targeted transcripts. Structure-guided mutations reduced QKI RNA-binding affinity in vitro and in vivo, and expression of QKI mutants in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK293) significantly decreased the abundance of QKI target mRNAs. Overall, our studies define principles underlying RNA target selection by STAR homodimers and provide insights into the post-transcriptional regulatory function of mammalian QKI proteins.
Numerical simulations of tyre/soil interaction using geomaterial properties characterised with a new calibration method

This paper presents soil–trip rollover simulations using a simplified pickup truck model over a geomaterial surface, whose characteristics are determined using a new calibration method with an improved uniaxial strain compression test. Parameters of MAT–005 in LS–DYNA were determined based on soil test results. A Finite Element (FE) soil model was developed and the results predicted by the FE model were compared with experimental data favourably. Using the three calibrated geomaterial models and the pickup truck model, additional computational studies of soil/tyre interaction demonstrate that the MAT–005 material model has a robust performance in large strain under dynamic loading conditions.
NMR-Structural Studies of Membrane Bound Peptides and Proteins

Membrane proteins are responsible for many of the properties and functions of biological systems; they act as receptors and catalysts, transport ions and molecules, and have roles in the assembly, fusion, and structure of cells and viruses. More than half of all proteins are associated with membranes and, even though phospholipids in bilayers apparently account for many of the physical properties of membranes, biological membranes generally consist of greater than 50% protein by weight. Not only are many proteins tightly bound to membranes, numerous other proteins pass through membranes on their way to the locations where they carry out their functions.
A geometric approach to combinatorial fixed-point theorems: extended abstract

We develop a geometric framework that unifies several different combinatorial fixed-point theorems related to Tucker’s lemma and Sperner’s lemma, showing them to be different geometric manifestations of the same topological phenomena. In doing so, we obtain (1) new Tucker-like and Sperner-like fixed-point theorems involving an exponential-sized label set; (2) a generalization of Fan’s parity proof of Tucker’s Lemma to a much broader class of label sets; and (3) direct proofs of several Sperner-like lemmas from Tucker’s lemma via explicit geometric embeddings.
Intramedullary fixation of implants pre-coated with bone cement: a preliminary study.

A preliminary study on the feasibility of implants pre-coated with an acrylic bone cement has been performed. Four types of implants, an actual canine femoral prosthesis, a polished steel rod (0.49 cm dia. × 13 cm long) with and without pre-coating, and a sand-blasted steel rod with pre-coating were implanted into canine femurs in vitro to evaluate the interfacial shear strengths. After serial sectioning the samples in discs, push-out tests were made.The weakest interfacial shear strength was exhibited by the polished rod/cement interface (0.5 MPa) while the strongest was the “old” and “new” cement interface (23.4 MPa). The bone/cement interfacial strength was in between (1.17 MPa). The shear strength of rod/cement interface increased substantially by sandblasting (6.84 MPa or 585% increase).The proposed method increases the modified implant's interfacial shear strength by 337% (from 1.17 to 3.84 MPa) over the conventional implants. It may furthermore reduce the setting temperature, the shrinkage, and the...
Elucidating the biochemical overwintering adaptations of Larval Cucujus clavipes puniceus, a nonmodel organism, via high throughput proteomics.

Cucujus clavipes puniceus (C.c.p.) is a nonmodel, freeze-avoiding beetle that overwinters as extremely cold-tolerant larvae in the interior boreal forests of Alaska to temperatures as low as −100 °...
Analysis of etiological and epidemiological characteristics among severe hand-foot-mouth disease cases in Kunshan from 2009 to 2012

Objective To understand the etiological and epidemiological characteristics among severe hand-foot-mouth disease(HFMD) cases in Kunshan from 2009 to 2012.Methods Descriptive epidemiological methods were used to analyze the epidemiological characteristics and the result of etiological test of severe HFMD cases.Results A total of 180 severe HFMD cases were reported from 2009 to 2012,and no deaths were reported.The average annual incidence rate of HFMD was2.68/100 000.The reported incidence rate increased from 0.48/100 000 in 2009 to 5.13/100 000 in 2012.The number of male cases was more than that of the female cases(1.54:1).The incidence rate was higher in the townships(2.85/100 000) than that in the urban area(2.11/100 000).The average positive rate of etiological test was 60%,and the number of severe HFMD cases infected with enterovirus 71(EV71),other enterovirus and CA16 accounted for 84.26%,10.19% and 5.56% of the total number of severe HFMD cases with a positive result of etiological test,respectively.Conclusions The epidemic trend was consistently in the peak level,and the number of severe HFMD cases continued to increase from 2009 to 2012.The severe HFMD cases were mainly infected with EV71.Therefore,enhancing comprehensive control measures on key area and population still serves as the main strategy in the future.
Effects of Obstetric Complications on Adolescent Postpartum Contraception and Rapid Repeat Pregnancy

Abstract Study Objective To determine whether complications during pregnancy or at delivery influence postpartum contraception choices and rapid repeat pregnancy rates in adolescent women. Design, Setting, Participants, Interventions, and Main Outcome Measures This retrospective cohort study included 321 adolescents delivering at UMASS Memorial Healthcare. Complications during pregnancy and delivery along with subsequent contraception use were investigated. Postpartum contraception choice (long-acting reversible contraception [LARC] vs non-LARC) at either delivery, hospitalization discharge, or at postpartum outpatient appointment, and rapid repeat pregnancy rate (pregnancy confirmed within 12 months of index delivery), were analyzed according to pregnancy complications. Comparisons were made with χ 2 and Fisher exact tests for categorical variables, and with Wilcoxon rank sum test for continuous variables. Results Of the study population, 27.7% (n = 89/321) used LARC in the postpartum period. The LARC and non-LARC patient populations differed significantly regarding history of abortion ( P = .029), with no differences in obstetric complications between the groups. Of the population, 16.6% (n = 53/320) became pregnant again within 1 year of their index delivery. Those with a rapid repeat pregnancy had significantly increased gravidity ( P = .002), parity ( P = .003), number of previous spontaneous or therapeutic abortions ( P = .026); they were also more like to have nonlive birth as a complication ( P = .028), compared with those without repeat pregnancy. No other obstetrical complications were statistically significantly different between the compared groups. Conclusion Obstetrical complications seem to have little effect on postpartum contraception choice or repeat pregnancy rate with the notable exception of nonlive birth being associated with rapid repeat pregnancy.
How the timing of performance feedback impacts incentive-based individual performance

Using a multi-step task setting where learning can help improve individual task performance, I experimentally examine the effect of the timing of performance feedback in an initial period on future task performance when this feedback is absent. I find an inverted-U relation between the timing of feedback and future performance. When feedback is provided before implementation of an initial decision, high learning costs discourage individuals from learning in the initial period to the detriment of future performance. Further, when feedback is provided after extended delays beyond implementation of a decision, learning costs increase relative to those present when feedback is provided after a short delay, resulting in lower learning and future performance. As such, I find that providing feedback immediately following implementation of a decision most effectively promotes learning and future performance as this is the point at which learning costs are lowest. My study extends prior research on feedback timing by incorporating the notion that learning costs fluctuate throughout the phases of a multi-step task and offers practical implications for designing performance evaluation and feedback systems.
Experiments on electrothermal instability as a seed for Magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor instability on accelerating, ablating foils

The electrothermal instability (ETI) arises whenever a current-carrying material has a resistivity that depends on temperature. When resistivity, η, increases with increasing temperature, ETI causes striations to form perpendicular to the direction of current. On pulsed-power-driven, ablating metallic loads, this process can cause sections of the target to ablate earlier than the bulk material, creating a macroscopic surface perturbation on the plasma-vacuum interface. Experiments are underway on the MAIZE 1-MA linear transformer driver at the University of Michigan to study surface perturbations produced by ETI as seeding for the Rayleigh-Taylor (MRT) instability on imploding liner [1] and accelerating foil plasmas [2]. Target foils are fabricated at the Lurie Nanofabrication Facility at UM by depositing ultrathin (200 to 500 nm) coatings of aluminum or titanium on 1.5 μm Chemplex Ultra-Polyester films. Foil thicknesses are chosen to maintain the same mass between shots, and the materials are chosen to provide substantially different values of dη/dt, which impacts the growth rate of the electrothermal instability. Targets are ablated and accelerated by driving a current of 500 to 600 kA on MAIZE, and the accelerated plasmas are imaged using a 12-frame laser imaging system. Images of these plasmas are compared to determine if initial plasma interface perturbations are measurably different on targets of different materials, with the same mass, but different ETI growth rates.
Filifactor alocis Promotes Neutrophil Degranulation and Chemotactic Activity

ABSTRACT Filifactor alocis is a recently recognized periodontal pathogen; however, little is known regarding its interactions with the immune system. As the first-responder phagocytic cells, neutrophils are recruited in large numbers to the periodontal pocket, where they play a crucial role in the innate defense of the periodontium. Thus, in order to colonize, successful periodontal pathogens must devise means to interfere with neutrophil chemotaxis and activation. In this study, we assessed major neutrophil functions, including degranulation and cell migration, associated with the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway upon challenge with F. alocis. Under conditions lacking a chemotactic gradient, F. alocis-challenged neutrophils had increased migration compared to uninfected cells, indicating that F. alocis increases chemokinesis in human neutrophils. In addition, neutrophil chemotaxis induced by interleukin-8 was significantly enhanced when cells were challenged with F. alocis, compared to noninfected cells. Similar to live bacteria, heat-killed F. alocis induced both random and directed migration of human neutrophils. The interaction of F. alocis with Toll-like receptor 2 induced granule exocytosis along with a transient ERK1/2 and sustained p38 MAPK activation. Moreover, F. alocis-induced secretory vesicle and specific granule exocytosis were p38 MAPK dependent. Blocking neutrophil degranulation with TAT-SNAP23 fusion protein significantly reduced the chemotactic and random migration induced by F. alocis. Therefore, we propose that induction of random migration by F. alocis will prolong neutrophil traffic time in the gingival tissue, and subsequent degranulation will contribute to tissue damage.
An Ultra-Short Channel Monolayer MoS 2 FET Defined By the Curvature of a Thin Nanowire

In this letter, we demonstrate the first top-gated 10-nm scale field-effect transistor with chemical-vapor-deposition synthesized monolayer MoS2 as the channel material. Ultra-thin metallic Co2Si nanowires are employed to gate the MoS2 channel and thereby define the device feature size—gate/channel length, as well as to serve as a self-aligned mask for source/drain metallization. This process not only avoids using the high-cost and low-yield electron beam lithography to define the gate/channel length, but also enables a top-gate structure with ultrathin gate dielectric. The latter is required to suppress short channel effects, but difficult to achieve with conventional deposition techniques on 2D layered semiconductors. Moreover, low OFF-current of 10 pA/ $\mu \text{m}$ and high ON/OFF current ratio over six orders are achieved, which makes this device quite promising for next-generation CMOS technology.