cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modeling of V 2 Current-Mode Control

Recently, the V2 type of constant on-time control has been widely used to improve light-load efficiency. In V2 implementation, the nonlinear PWM modulator is much more complicated than usual, since not only is the inductor current information fed back to the modulator, but the capacitor voltage ripple information is also fed back to the modulator. Generally speaking, there is no sub-harmonic oscillation in constant on-time control. However, the delay due to the capacitor ripple results in sub-harmonic oscillation in V2 constant on-time control. So far, there has been no accurate model to predict instability issue due to the capacitor ripple. This paper presents a new modeling approach for V2 constant on-time control. The power stage, the switches and the PWM modulator are treated as a single entity and modeled based the describing function method. The model for the V2 constant on-time control achieved by the new approach can accurately predict sub-harmonic oscillation. Two solutions are discussed to solve the instability issue. The extension of the model to other types of V2 current-mode control is also shown in the paper. Simulation and experimental results are used to verify the proposed model.
Calibration of photon counting imaging microchannel plate detectors for EUV astronomy

The calibration of photon counting imaging detectors for satellite based EUV astronomy is a complex process designed to ensure the validity of the data received 'in orbit'. The methods developed to accomplish calibration of microchannel plate detectors for the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer are described and illustrated. The characterization of these detectors can be subdivided into three categories: stabilization, performance tests, and environmental tests.
Job Satisfaction Level of Marketing Faculty

A survey conducted of members of the American Marketing Association evaluated faculty job satisfaction. The study reports satisfaction levels of faculty, area of the country in which these faculty reside, and the reasons faculty have for wanting to remain at or leave their present positions.
Aortic intimal tears: Detection with spiral computed tomography

Purpose:To determine the frequency, locations, and sizes of aortic intimal tears detected using spiral computed tomography (CT).Methods:CT scans (26 single detector and 26 multidetector studies) from 52 patients with an unoperated aortic dissection and a patent false lumen were evaluated on a workstation. The number, location, and size of aortic tears were recorded and compared between the following groups: acute and chronic dissection, type A and type B, and single detector and multidetector studies.Results:In 52 patients, 129 tears were identified (mean 2.48 per patient, median 2, range 1–7). There were no significant differences in the number or size of tears between the acute and chronic, the type A and type B, or the single detector and multidetector groups (p 0.05)....
Congestion Control in Networks with Delay Sensitive Traffic

We study the congestion control in a network where the users may have different types of traffic, such as the traffic with fixed/variable rate, delay sensitive/insensitive, etc. To reflect the different requirements on delay by different applications, explicit terms of delay are added to the utility function. We analyze the essential dynamics for the network utility maximization (NUM) with the new utility functions. Compared with the basic NUM where the utility function is only a function of rate, the dynamics for link price is now related to the delay term added in the utility function. The analysis is applied to the system with voice and data traffic, and distributed algorithms are proposed to allocate the resource such that the utility of voice and data is jointly optimized. The numerical results show that by the new price dynamics, we can accomplish optimal congestion control for users with delay sensitive/insensitive traffic in a network. In particular, in a network with data and voice traffic with priority queueing, the algorithm can lead the network to achieve higher quality of voice traffic and higher throughput of data traffic, with the sacrifice of the packet delay of data traffic.
Enediynes via Sequential Acetylide Reductive Coupling and Alkyne Metathesis: Easy Access to Well-Defined Molybdenum Initiators for Alkyne Metathesis

A new synthetic route utilizes the reductive coupling of molybdenum(IV) acetylides toward the construction of both enediyne molecules and trialkoxymolybdenum alkylidynes, the latter being useful as alkyne metathesis initiators. The molybdaziridine hydride complex Mo(H)(η2-Me2CNAr)(N[i-Pr]Ar)2, 1, readily prepared from MoCl3(thf)3, is elaborated in three generally high-yielding steps to enediynes and/or metathesis catalysts.
Prespeech and early speech development of two late talkers

Speech samples of 34 children were analysed to determine patterns of babbling and early word productions from 9 to 24 months. The present study focuses on the vocal and verbal development of two 'late talkers' in the group who did not meet the criterion for achieving the Meaningful Speech Stage until 24 months. Analysis of these subjects' prespeech utterances revealed that one of them produced few canonical babbles from 9 to 21 months; the other displayed an unusual pattern of sound preference in his babbles. At 24 months, word productions of both late talkers evidenced more limited phonetic repertoires and simpler syllable shapes than those used by their peers. These findings suggest that atypical babbling may be associated with delays in the acquisition of meaningful speech.
Measles and rubella eradication in Alaska.

The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services has instituted a special surveillance program to investigate every suspected case of measles and rubella. Clinical and epidemiologic information is obtained, and serologic testing is performed to confirm all tentative diagnoses. In 1974, forty-one cases were investigated, and none were confirmed as measles or rubella. This record is attributed to high immunization levels and rapid epidemiologic follow-up of all suspected cases. We believe that this program can be easily instituted in other states, particularly those with a limited number of reported cases. (JAMA235:179-180, 1976)
Facing With Courage Racial and Linguistic Discrimination: The Narrative of an ELL Caribbean Immigrant Living in the U.S. Diaspora

People immigrate to other countries for various reasons. Whereas some voluntarily move to a foreign land, others are forced to do so as a result of socioeconomic, racial, political, sexual, and religious oppressions. In light of these various factors causing the voluntary or forcible exodus of people, this article traces back the author's journey as a Black Caribbean immigrant from Haiti to the United States. Drawing on personal narrative, the article describes the underlying factors that led to the author's relocation in the U.S. diapora while at the same time examining the ways in which the author has been racially and linguistically positioned. The author further explains the negotiation of this position. The author's immigrant story is situated in the larger U.S. sociopolitical, linguistic, and racial context where immigrants, particularly immigrants of color, have faced many challenges.
Clinical and Molecular Findings in Osteoporosis-Pseudoglioma Syndrome

Mutations in the low-density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 5 gene (LRP5) cause autosomal recessive osteoporosis-pseudoglioma syndrome (OPPG). We sequenced the coding exons of LRP5 in 37 probands suspected of having OPPG on the basis of the co-occurrence of severe congenital or childhood-onset visual impairment with bone fragility or osteoporosis recognized by young adulthood. We found two putative mutant alleles in 26 probands, only one mutant allele in 4 probands, and no mutant alleles in 7 probands. Looking for digenic inheritance, we sequenced the genes encoding the functionally related receptor LRP6, an LRP5 coreceptor FZD4, and an LRP5 ligand, NDP, in the four probands with one mutant allele, and, looking for locus heterogeneity, we sequenced FZD4 and NDP in the seven probands with no mutations, but we found no additional mutations. When we compared clinical features between probands with and without LRP5 mutations, we found no difference in the severity of skeletal disease, prevalence of cognitive impairment, or family history of consanguinity. However, four of the seven probands without detectable mutations had eye pathology that differed from pathology previously described for OPPG. Since many LRP5 mutations are missense changes, to differentiate between a disease-causing mutation and a benign variant, we measured the ability of wild-type and mutant LRP5 to transduce Wnt and Norrin signal ex vivo. Each of the seven OPPG mutations tested, had reduced signal transduction compared with wild-type mutations. These results indicate that early bilateral vitreoretinal eye pathology coupled with skeletal fragility is a strong predictor of LRP5 mutation and that mutations in LRP5 cause OPPG by impairing Wnt and Norrin signal transduction.
Liver fat and SHBG affect insulin resistance in midlife women: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN)†‡

The liver is an insulin-responsive organ that contributes significantly to both whole body insulin sensitivity and availability of sex steroids through the production of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Our objective was to explore whether lower SHBG was associated with ectopic liver fat and mediated its effect on insulin resistance in The Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN). A subset of midlife African American and Caucasian women from SWAN (n=208; 50.9±0.18 yrs; 71% Caucasian) had computed tomography scans to quantify visceral, subcutaneous and liver fat. Blood samples were collected and assayed for hormonal and metabolic markers. The cohort, while overweight, was generally healthy, and both liver fat and SHBG were unaffected by menopausal stage or race. Both higher liver fat and lower SHBG levels were significantly associated with higher insulin concentrations after adjustment for adiposity (r=−0.25, p<0.001 and r=−0.18, p=0.01). SHBG and liver fat had additive effects on insulin concentrations such that women with the lowest SHBG and the highest fat levels had the highest values (interaction p=0.09). The association between SHBG and insulin was more apparent among women with fattier livers. SHBG and liver fat appear to have independent effects on insulin levels as adjustment for each other did not diminish the strength of either association (p=0.023 and 0.001 respectively). These results confirmed the strong independent associations between increased liver fat and decreased SHBG with increased metabolic risk in midlife women. Further these data underscore the need for additional research into the role of liver fat in modifying SHBG’s influence on insulin levels.
Employee “spy” software: Should you use it?

Cyber loafing costs companies billions of dollars each year. But should you use the latest employee “spy” software to monitor your firm's computer users? The authors review a popular new surveillance tool, and discuss both its benefits and possible risks. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
“Good individualism”? Psychology, ethics, and neoliberalism in postsocialist Russia

Psychologists working in Russia's cities have found it both desirable and profitable to offer “psychological education” to the children of the elite. I examine two characterizations of this work—as a form of neoliberal subjectivation and as a post-Soviet project focused on progressive sociopolitical reform. Exploring the tensions between them illuminates the historical specificity of self-work in Russia, its relation to commerce and biopolitics, and its political ambiguity. I conclude that studies of governmentality that attend to both subjectivation as an ethical practice and social history can effectively render capitalist complicity and ordinary ethics in the same frame.
Size Exclusion Chromatography−Chemical Reaction Interface Mass Spectrometry: “A Perfect Match”

Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) has been coupled to chemical reaction interface mass spectrometry (CRIMS) for the analysis of biopolymers. This innovative combination allows the analysis of biopolymers with no limitation on the molecular weight and chemical composition of the species under investigation. With SEC−CRIMS we have examined different classes of biopolymers including polynucleotides, proteins, and polysaccharides. Moreover, CRIMS allows the simultaneous detection of multiple organic elements and their stable isotopes. When SEC is interfaced to CRIMS, further information (elemental detection) is obtained, enhancing the analytical capability of SEC. These features have been applied to the detection of a labeled protein (13C-rat growth hormone) in plasma and to the characterization of heparin and low molecular weight heparin from different sources.
Oxygen reactions in p-hydroxybenzoate hydroxylase utilize the H-bond network during catalysis.

para-Hydroxybenzoate hydroxylase is a flavoprotein monooxygenase that catalyses a reaction in two parts: reduction of the flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) in the enzyme by reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) in response to binding p-hydroxybenzoate to the enzyme and oxidation of reduced FAD with oxygen to form a hydroperoxide, which then oxygenates p-hydroxybenzoate. These different reactions are coordinated through conformational rearrangements of the protein and isoalloxazine ring during catalysis. Earlier research showed that reduction of FAD occurs when the isoalloxazine of the FAD moves to the surface of the protein to allow hydride transfer from NADPH. This move is coordinated with protein rearrangements that are triggered by deprotonation of buried p-hydroxybenzoate through a H-bond network that leads to the surface of the protein. In this paper, we examine the involvement of this same H-bond network in the oxygen reactions-the initial formation of a flavin-C4a-hydroperoxide from the reaction between oxygen and reduced flavin, the electrophilic attack of the hydroperoxide upon the substrate to form product, and the elimination of water from the flavin-C4a-hydroxide to form oxidized enzyme in association with product release. These reactions were measured through absorbance and fluorescence changes in the FAD during the reactions. Results were collected over a range of pH for the reactions of wild-type enzyme and a series of mutant enzymes with the natural substrate and substrate analogues. We discovered that the rate of formation of the flavin hydroperoxide is not influenced by pH change, which indicates that the proton required for this reaction does not come from the H-bond network. The rate of the hydroxylation reaction increases with pH in a manner consistent with a pK a of 7.1. We conclude that the H-bond network abstracts the phenolic proton from p-hydroxybenzoate in the transition state of oxygen transfer. The rate of formation of oxidized enzyme increases with pH in a manner consistent with a pK a of 7.1, indicating the involvement of the H-bond network. We conclude that product deprotonation enhances the rate of a specific conformational change required for both product release and the elimination of water from C4a-OH-FAD.
Recent Progress in Understanding Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia

Several important issues in CML research are not covered in this brief review such as the structural or molecular basis of the translocation between ABL and BCR, the relationship between CML and ALL with an identical or related BCR/ABL abnormality, the biology of CML stem and progenitor cells and immunologic aspects of CML. These are discussed elsewhere in this volume. The data reviewed indicate considerable progress in understanding the molecular and cell biology of CML. More is known about what causes CML than any human cancer. However, many important unresolved issues are likely to provide a productive direction for future studies.
Transpiration effects in solids dissolution

Abstract The correction for transpiration effects is applied to our previous theoretical analysis to predict the time-to-complete-dissolution (TCD) of a spherical particle in a diffusion-controlled environment. The widely accepted mass transferexpressions of Frossling and Levich are combined with falling sphere hydrodynamics and corrected for transpiration to yield a simple fundamental expression to predict TCD in terms of initial particle size. These predictions are in excellent agreement with experimental data for the disappearance of area pellets falling in water. Since first principles are used throughout, the theoretical and experimental results suggest a quick and simple technique to obtain engineering estimates for solid or crystal diffusivity.
The pathogenesis and treatment of acne vulgaris: the needs of the future

Optimal therapy for acne vulgaris depends upon a knowledge of the basic pathogenic mechanisms of the disease. In this introductory report, the four basic goals of treatment are briefly summarized and some of the unsolved problems related to the pathogenesis of acne have been brought up for discussion.
IQ Tests and Their Educational Supporters

IQ tests are used to judge the mental capacities of black Americans, a fact which places a tremendous ethical responsibility on those involved in IQ test research and administration. It is argued that most IQ test developers and administrators have abrogated this responsibility by ignoring clear cultural and racial biases in the content, administration, and interpretation of IQ tests. This article examines the validity of present IQ tests for measuring the intelligence of black Americans. It is concluded that such tests have little validity, and the issue facing contemporary psychologists is why the discipline should continue to condone their use in black communities.
Properties of polyetherimide/graphite composites prepared using ultrasonic twin‐screw extrusion

The dispersion of various graphites in polymers is a challenging problem limiting their potential use. To solve this problem, an ultrasound assisted twin-screw extruder was developed and utilized to compound polyetherimide (PEI) with untreated nature graphite (UG), modified graphite (MG) and expanded graphite (EG) at concentrations up to 10 wt %. The effect of ultrasonic amplitude on rheological, mechanical and electrical properties of the PEI composites was investigated. Ultrasonic treatment of PEI/UG composites showed little effect on these properties. In contrast, ultrasonic treatment of PEI/MG and PEI/EG composites led to an increase of the storage (G′), loss (G″) moduli and complex viscosity and to a decrease of the damping characteristics. In particular, the PEI/5 wt %EG composite ultrasonically treated at an amplitude of 10 μm showed a 45% higher complex viscosity than the untreated composite at a frequency of 0.5 rad/s. Also, the PEI/5 wt % EG composite treated at an amplitude of 10 μm showed a reduction in the electrical volume resistivity by almost three orders of magnitude leading to a lower percolation threshold. The untreated and treated PEI/UG and PEI/MG composites did not show any percolation within all graphite concentrations studied, due to large size of particles of UG and MG and their strong agglomeration. The ultrasonic treatment showed slight effect on mechanical properties of all these composites. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41397.
Architectural retiming: pipelining latency-constrained circuits

This paper presents a new optimization technique called architectural retiming which is able to improve the performance of many latency-constrained circuits. Architectural retiming achieves this by increasing the number of registers on the latency-constrained path while preserving the functionality and latency of the circuit. This is done using the concept of a negative register, which can be implemented using precomputation and prediction. We use the name architectural retiming since it both reschedules operations in time and modifies the structure of the circuit to preserve its functionality. We illustrate the use of architectural retiming on two realistic examples and present performance improvement results for a number of sample circuits.
A note on the equations of conditioned reflex

An alternative method is suggested for integrating a certain differential equation associated with a conditioning process, where the stimulus is presented in the form of a “square wave,” i.e., is of constant intensity during an interval of time followed by no stimulus during the next interval, etc.
Agonist contraction during intermittent theta burst stimulation enhances motor cortical plasticity of the wrist flexors

Differences in cortical control across the different muscles of the upper limb may mitigate the efficacy of TMS interventions targeting a specific muscle. The current study sought to determine whether weak concurrent contraction during TMS could enhance the efficacy of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) in the forearm flexors. Motor evoked potentials (MEP) were elicited from the flexor (FCR) and extensor carpi radialis (ECR) motor cortical hotspots before and after iTBS over the FCR cortical hotspot. During iTBS the FCR was either relaxed (iTBS-Relax) or tonically contracted to 10% of maximum voluntary force (iTBS-Contract). iTBS-Relax failed to produce consistent potentiation of MEPFCR amplitude. Individuals with a relatively lower RMTFCR compared RMTECR demonstrated MEPFCR facilitation post-iTBS-Relax. Individuals with relatively higher RMTFCR demonstrated less facilitation and even suppression of MEPFCR amplitude. iTBS-Contract facilitated MEPFCR amplitude but only for MEPFCR evoked from the ECR hotspot. Interactions between overlapping cortical representations determine the efficacy of iTBS. Tonic contraction increases the efficacy of iTBS by enhancing the volume of the cortical representation. However, metaplastic effects may attenuate the enhancement of MEP gain at the motor cortical hotspot. The use of TMS as an adjunct to physical therapy should account for inter-muscle interactions when targeting muscles of the forearm.
Extreme prematurity and school outcomes.

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of extreme prematurity on three global measures of school outcomes. Using a matched cohort design, exposed infants comprised all surviving singleton infants 28 weeks gestation born at one regional neonatal intensive care hospital between 1983 and 1986 (n = 132). Unexposed infants comprised randomly selected full-term infants ( 37 weeks gestation) frequency matched on date of birth, zip code and health insurance. All children were selected from a regional tertiary children’s centre serving western New York population. Standardised telephone interviews elicited information on grade repetition, special education placement and use of school-based services. Unconditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) adjusted for potential confounders for children without major handicaps. Extreme prematurity was associated with a significant increase in risk of grade repetition (OR = 3.22; 95% CI = 1.63, 6.34), special education placement (OR = 3.16; 95% CI = 1.14, 8.76) and use of school-based services (OR = 4.56; 95% CI = 1.82, 11.42) in comparison with children born at term, even after controlling for age, race, maternal education, foster care placement and the matching factors. These findings suggest that survivors of extreme prematurity remain at risk of educational underachievement.
Thiazides XIII: Dissolution testing: A bioavailability predictor for benzthiazide tablets

The dissolution characteristics of benzthiazide tablets were studied under different conditions, and were found to be very poor. It is suggested that these dissolution characteristics are predictive of poor product performance in vivo observed by other authors. The combined dissolution and bioavailability data raise questions as to the clinical value of benzthiazide products.
Application of stable isotope analysis to quantify the retention of eroded carbon in grass filters at the North Appalachian experimental watersheds

Abstract The entrapment of eroded soil organic carbon (SOC) in grass filters could affect watershed C export, but the magnitude of the process is rarely quantified. In order to assess the retention of eroded C in these settings, SOC stock was measured in grass buffers receiving runoff from cropped watersheds under long-term (> 20 y): chisel-till (CT) corn ( Zea mays , L.)-soybean [ Glycine max , (L.) Merr.] rotation, moldboard plowing (MP) continuous corn (CC), and no-till (NT) CC. Adjacent reference grasslands not affected by erosion were also sampled. In the CC watersheds, the δ 13 C of bulk soil and soil separates was determined to identify the source of SOC in the grass filters. After accounting for differences in the number of corn crops, SOC stock in the MP watershed showed a corn-C deficit of 9.3 Mg C ha − 1 compared to NT. Corn-C accounted for 2 to 16% (mean: 5.2 Mg C ha − 1 ) of the total SOC pool in the grass filter and, assuming water erosion as the main determinant of C distribution, this corn-C gain translates into the retention of 55% of eroded C in the grass strip. Relative to the reference grasslands, SOC stock in the grass filters was up to 30 Mg C ha − 1 higher, an amount deemed too large to be attributed solely to retention of eroded C (export rate: 0.05-0.08 Mg C ha − 1 y − 1 ). Periodic delivery of nutrients may have enhanced biomass production and indirectly contributed to the observed SOC accrual in grass filters. Higher extractable P and higher C:N ratios at these locations support that hypothesis. These results demonstrate the applicability of 13 C isotope to trace SOC sources in buffers receiving runoff from areas supporting C 4 vegetation. They also underscore the need to incorporate in-situ biomass production and burial processes in assessing the temporal evolution of SOC stocks in terrestrial deposits and the contribution of these landscape segments to watershed C budget.
Family Characteristics of Children with Dyslexia

Few studies have been devoted to the family characteristics of children with dyslexia. The findings from the studies available are often contradictory with regard to father's socioeconomic status, parents' age, sibship size, and birth order. Mother's socioeconomic status has attracted little attention. The present study was based on a retrospective review of 249 children with severe dyslexia. The major findings were the low occupational status and educational level of parents and the predominance of high-ranking children in large sibships. However, parental age was not found to be an important risk factor. These findings are discussed in the light of previous results. Matrimonial status seemed unimportant. There was objective agreement upon the predominance of large sibships and high ordinal birth positions, although their significance remains poorly understood. No convincing support was found for the aging hypothesis. Mother's low socioeconomic and educational status may be an aggravating factor.
Factors associated with mental health services use among disconnected African-American young adult population.

Research related to mental health service use among vulnerable young adults is limited. This study used an expanded version of Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services Use to evaluate factors associated with the use of different types of mental health services among a sample of predominantly African-American 16–24 year olds (n = 500) in an employment training program in Baltimore City. Results indicated that participants were more likely to have received mental health services in correctional facilities than in community- or school-based contexts. Use of mental health services in correctional facilities was significantly greater among males, those less than 18 years, and those who experienced more stressful events. Findings illustrate the need to develop seamless mental health services for vulnerable young adults in multiple contexts, including the criminal justice system.
Nitrated lipids: A class of cell-signaling molecules

It is becoming increasingly evident that the inflammatory oxidants reactive oxygen species (ROS), reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and reactive halogen species (RHS) mediate diverse pathologic processes in cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurodegenerative diseases (1, 2). RNS (peroxynitrite, nitrogen-dioxide radical, or nitronium ion) are formed from the rapid reaction between ROS (superoxide) and nitric oxide (3), oxidation of nitrite anion by peroxidases and ROS (hydrogen peroxide) (4), or oxidation of nitrite anion by RHS (hypochlorous acid) (5). RNS react with carbohydrates, DNA bases, protein tyrosine/tryptophan, and unsaturated fatty acids to form relatively stable nitrated products (6). Investigators in this area are now focusing on the role of nitrated biomolecules on cell signaling and evaluating their cellular abundance, metabolism, and bioactivity (7). In this issue of PNAS, Baker et al . (8) report the identification and quantitation of allylic nitro derivatives of linoleic acid (termed LNO2 or nitrolinoleate) in healthy human blood samples. Data shown in this study indicate that the concentration of LNO2 found in red cells and plasma represents the single largest pool of bioactive oxides of nitrogen in the vasculature. This work also represents the convergence of antiinflammatory (•NO-dependent) and proinflammatory (oxidized lipid-dependent) cell-signaling pathways. Clearly, this is an exciting finding that will likely have profound implications in advancing our understanding of inflammatory processes. The first obvious question is: Why should we be concerned about lipid nitration? The hydrophobic environment of biological membranes acts as a “molecular lens” and significantly enhances nitration, oxidation, and nitrosation reactions (9). Nitrogen oxides (•NO, NO2, and N2O3) will freely diffuse and concentrate into the hydrophobic membrane (9–11). Both the unprotonated and protonated forms of peroxynitrite (ONOO– and ONOOH) have been reported to cross the lipid membrane through an ion channel or by passive …
An update on the genetics and neurobiology of Tourette's syndrome and its relationship to obsessive-compulsive disorder

Abstract Evidence from ongoing phenomenological, family-genetic and neurobiological studies provides support for the hypothesis that obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an etiologically heterogenous disorder. Subtypes include forms of OCD that are etiologically related to Tourette's syndrome.
A simple method for the preparation of inflated air‐dried Lung specimens

A simple method for the preparation of air-dried lung specimens is described. These specimens have proven valuable as teaching tools in anatomy, radiology, pathology, medicine, and surgery. Specimens have been made from the lungs of the cat, dog, pig, and horse.
Hydrodynamic Cavitation in Flow Through Micro-Constriction Elements Entrenched in Rectangular Microchannels

Hydrodynamic cavitation, the explosive growth and catastrophic collapse of vapor bubbles, has immense impact on the design and performance of hydraulic machinery in the macro world. However, cavitation in high-speed microfluidic systems has received scarce attention and hardly been reported. This article reports the presence of hydrodynamic cavitation in the flow of de-ionized water through 11.5–40micron wide rectangular slot micro-orifices entrenched inside 100–200micron wide microchannels. Pioneering experimental investigations on hydrodynamic cavitation in rudimentary microfluidic configurations such as slot micro-orifices has been presented and unique cavitating flow patterns have been identified. Assorted cavitating (two-phase) flow patterns including incipient, choking and supercavitation have been detected. Designers of high-velocity microfluidic systems, especially Power-MEMS devices, need to be aware of the deleterious effects of cavitation as it can significantly affect device performance. The effects of micro-orifice and microchannel size on cavitation have been discussed and results indicate the existence of strong scale effects. Incipient and choking cavitation numbers are observed to increase with increasing micro-orifice size, while the orifice discharge coefficient plummets once cavitation activity erupts. In addition, inlet pressure effects on several cavitation parameters have been discussed and compared with established macro-scale results. The cavitating flow patterns encountered are significantly influenced by the micro-orifice and microchannel size. Flow rate choking occurs irrespective of the inlet pressures and is a direct consequence of cavitation inside the micro-orifice. Cavitation hysteresis is observed but its effects are more marked for the smallest micro-orifice.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Exact ray tracing formulas for parabolic axial GRIN lenses

A novel raytracing method through parabolic axial gradient index lenses is presented. The study is based on developing the exact solution of the differential ray equations with initial conditions set by refraction at the first surface. The analysis offers potential benefits in reducing the computation effort and increasing the raytracing accuracy.
Characterization of the Recombinant Rat 175-kDa Hyaluronan Receptor for Endocytosis (HARE)

Abstract Hyaluronan (HA) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) clearance from lymph and blood in mammals is mediated by the HA receptor for endocytosis (HARE), which is present as two isoforms in rat and human (175/300 kDa and 190/315 kDa, respectively) in the sinusoidal endothelial cells of liver, spleen, and lymph nodes (Zhou, B., McGary, C. T., Weigel, J. A., Saxena, A., and Weigel, P. H. (2003) Glycobiology 13, 339–349). The small rat and human HARE proteins are not encoded directly by mRNA but are derived from larger precursors. Here we characterize the specificity and function of the 175-kDa HARE, expressed in the absence of the 300-kDa species, in stably transfected SK-Hep-1 cells. The HARE cDNA was fused with a leader sequence to allow correct orientation of the membrane protein. The recombinant rHARE contained ∼25 kDa of N-linked oligosaccharides and, like the native protein, was able to bind HA in a ligand blot assay, even after de-N-glycosylation. SK-HARE cell lines demonstrated specific 125I-HA endocytosis, receptor recycling, and delivery of HA to lysosomes for degradation. The Kd for the binding of HA (number-average molecular mass ∼ 133 kDa) to the 175-kDa HARE at 4 °C was 4.1 nm with 160,000 to 220,000 HA-binding sites per cell. The 175-kDa rHARE binds HA, dermatan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfates A, C, D, and E, but not chondroitin, heparin, heparan sulfate, or keratan sulfate. Surprisingly, recognition of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) other than HA by native or recombinant HARE was temperature-dependent. Although competition was observed at 37 °C, none of the other GAGs competed for 125I-HA binding to SK-HARE cells at 4 °C. Anti-HARE monoclonal antibody-174 showed a similar temperature-dependence in its ability to block HA endocytosis. These data suggest that temperature-induced conformational changes may alter the GAG specificity of HARE. The results confirm that the 175-kDa rHARE does not require the larger HARE isoform to mediate endocytosis of multiple GAGs.
Toward Evaluating the Effectiveness of Regional Partnerships for Economic Development in U.S. Metropolitan Areas

Abstract During the past few decades, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of regional partnerships in the United States to enhance economic development across local government jurisdictions. This trend has been mirrored by an increase in regional organizations in Europe, Asia and South America to enhance economic development, usually across national boundaries. While the literature has examined the formation, structure and activities of regional partnerships for economic development in the United States, this is the first study that attempts to measure their effectiveness across a large number of geographical areas using quantitative methods. The findings provide some evidence of their effectiveness in that there is a positive and significant relationship between regional partnerships and employment; the relationship between regional partnerships and income is positive but insignificant. This study may be informative in the further study of regional economic development organizations in other...
A comparison of WISC-IV and SB-5 intelligence scores in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder

In autism spectrum disorders, results of cognitive testing inform clinical care, theories of neurodevelopment, and research design. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children and the Stanford-Binet are commonly used in autism spectrum disorder evaluations and scores from these tests have been shown to be highly correlated in typically developing populations. However, they have not been compared in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, whose core symptoms can make testing challenging, potentially compromising test reliability. We used a within-subjects research design to evaluate the convergent validity between the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th ed., and Stanford-Binet, 5th ed., in 40 youth (ages 10-16 years) with autism spectrum disorder. Corresponding intelligence scores were highly correlated (r = 0.78 to 0.88), but full-scale intelligence quotient (IQ) scores (t(38) = -2.27, p = 0.03, d = -0.16) and verbal IQ scores (t(36) = 2.23, p = 0.03; d = 0.19) differed between the two tests. Most participants obtained higher full-scale IQ scores on the Stanford-Binet, 5th ed., compared to Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th ed., with 14% scoring more than one standard deviation higher. In contrast, verbal indices were higher on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th ed., Verbal-nonverbal discrepancy classifications were only consistent for 60% of the sample. Comparisons of IQ test scores in autism spectrum disorder and other special groups are important, as it cannot necessarily be assumed that convergent validity findings in typically developing children and adolescents hold true across all pediatric populations.
The economic organisation of biomedical research in the USA

This article analyses the economic organisation of biological materials and research in the USA, focusing particularly on human biological materials and biomedical research. The economic nature and the property rights arrangements that govern biological materials and biomedical research are quite complex. This has important implications for developing comprehensive research collections and exchanges. There is no single market for exchange nor is there a discernable commons: biomedical exchange involves a number of different types of transactions and many centres of decision-making. Theories of efficient governance predict that biomedical exchange is best organised using polycentric principles and diverse contracting mechanisms, property rights and regulatory schemes. Contracting mechanisms include market, trilateral and relational contracting principles. Intellectual property rights arrangements include unrestricted access and use, confidentiality and proprietary information agreements, licenses and patents. Regulatory solutions include limited regulation, self-regulation and third-party ordering. The organisation of biomedical research in the USA provides an excellent opportunity for further research on efficient governance.
Photogenerated charge carriers in semiconductor nanomaterials for solar energy conversion

Semiconducting nanomaterials possess unique optical and electronic properties ideally suited for solar energy harvesting applications, including tuneable optical absorption due to quantum confinement effects. With above bandgap light excitation, photogenerated charge carriers (PCCs) can be collected as electricity in photovoltaic solar cells, used directly in photocatalytic redox reactions, or utilised to drive chemical reactions in photoelectrochemical (PEC) devices. Inherent electron hole recombination and charge carrier trapping usually compete with and limit the efficiency of charge separation, collection, transport, or reaction. The advantage of using semiconductor nanomaterials for solar devices is the ability to manipulate their electronic band structures and thereby alter their opto-electronic properties and functionalities. To understand the fundamental charge carrier dynamics, various time-resolved techniques that directly probe the carrier lifetime and behaviour have been employed. This review focuses on new strategies to increase the separation of charge carriers using methods such as quantum dot (QD)-sensitisation of metal oxides (MOs), elemental doping, or combined approaches for achieving synergistic effects.
Inhibition of Hydrolytig Enzymes by Gold Compounds I. β-Glucuronidase and Acid Phosphatase by Sodium Tetrachloroaurate (III) and Potassium Tetrabromoaurate (III)

AbstractPurified bovine liver β-glucuronidase (β-D-glucuronide glucuronohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.32) and wheat germ acid phosphatase (orthophosphoric monoesterphosphohydrolase, EC 3.1.3.2) were inhibited with freshly dissolved and 24 h aquated tetrahaloaurate (III) compounds. Rate and equilibrium inhibition constants were measured. From this data two acid phosphatases species were observed.Equilibrium inhibition constants ranged from 1 to 12.5 μM for the various gold compounds toward both enzymes. The first order rate constants ranged between 0.005 and O.M min.-1 for most reactions with the exception of the fast reacting acid phosphatase which had values as high as 2.6 and 2.8 min.-1It is observed that the β-glucuronidase is rapidly inhibited during the equilibrium phase before the more slower reaction covalent bond formation takes place. The acid phosphatases form the covalent bonds more rapidly, especially the faster reacting species suggesting a unique difference in the active site geometry to that of the m...
Novel parameterized intervals may lead to sharp bounds

Abstract This study is deemed as a contribution to interval analysis for solving problems involving uncertainty. In this study, intervals describing variation of various inner properties or external influences on the system are parameterized using trigonometric functions. Once the additional parameters are introduced, the system is analyzed deterministically. Deterministic response of the system, evaluated in the above manner, turns out to be a function of the introduced parameter(s). At this stage one is able to determine the interval of variation of the system response. Several examples are evaluated to demonstrate efficiency of the suggested methodology.
Superior Immune Response to Protein-Conjugate versus Free Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Rationale: Debate exists about the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of antibodies produced by the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The 7-valent diphtheria-conjugated pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PCV7) induces a more robust immune response than PPSV23 in healthy elderly adults.Objectives: We hypothesized that serotype-specific IgG antibody concentration and functional antibody activity would be superior after PCV7 vaccination compared with PPSV23 in moderate to severe COPD. We also posited that older age and prior PPSV23 vaccination would be associated with reduced vaccine responsiveness.Methods: One hundred twenty patients with COPD were randomized to PPSV23 (63 subjects) or PCV7 (57 subjects). IgG concentrations were determined by ELISA; functional antibody activity was assayed with a standardized opsonophagocytosis assay and reported as an opsonization killing index (OPK). Increases in serotype-specific IgG and OPK at 1...
Chromosomal Control of Meiotic Cell Division

Chromosomes have multiple roles both in controlling the cell assembly and structure of the spindle and in determining chromosomal position on the spindle in many meiotic cells and in some types of mitotic cells. Moreover, functionally significant chromosome-microtubule interactions are not limited to the kinetochore but are also mediated by proteins localized along the arms of chromosomes. Finally, chromosomes also play a crucial role in control of the cell cycle.
Prototype models for two-dimensional layout design of robot systems

Abstract This paper provides a structure for analysis and design of layouts for robotic systems. Unique features are identified and classified; prototype models are formulated to clarify specific design issues. These models formalize the existing qualitative literature dealing with robot systems, augment other quantitative approaches by demonstrating application of mathematical programming, and suggest topics of research to develop efficient solution algorithms.
The Effect of the Number of Opinion Seekers and Leaders on Technology Attitudes and Choices

Status, which implies a positive evaluation by other members of the group, remains one aspect of group structure that has not received much theoretical or empirical evaluation. Although a number of researchers have focused on status and its emergence, the influence of the number of group members who share status has never been explored. This paper focuses on group relationships and examines the impact of the number of opinion seekers and opinion leaders on individual technology-related attitudes and behavior. The research model was built on the social influence model presented by J. Fulk (1993) and tested across multiple moderating variables suggested in the social psychological literature including cohesiveness, three types of uncertainty, two levels of uncertainty, and two media types. Contrary to the dominant theoretical position, the number of opinion leaders did not always influence technology attitudes; rather, in host of high-attraction conditions, the number of opinion seekers had a significant influence. The influence of the number of opinion seekers was moderated by the degree of cohesiveness-indicating internalization of attitudes rather than compliance. Also moderating this relationship were the type and level of uncertainty and the type of media chosen.
Is caring really teachable

Abstract Caring is often considered a synonym for nursing; therefore it is appropriate to include its definition and description in nursing courses and curricula. Is such an ethereal concept teachable? If so, how might a lesson about caring take place in a nursing course? This article offers a strategy and resources to assist nursing students to understand and recognize caring, develop personal definitions of caring, and identify behaviors to show their ability to care for patients, colleagues, and classmates.