cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Precise critical-field measurements of superconducting Sn films in the London limit

Precise measurements of the critical field of superconducting tin films were made as a function of temperature and thickness. Particular attention was paid to measurements near the transition temperature where the London limit holds. It was found that near the transition temperature the critical field could be expressed in the form ${H}_{c}={(\ensuremath{\Delta}t)}^{\frac{1}{2}}\ensuremath{\gamma}(1+\ensuremath{\epsilon}\ensuremath{\Delta}t)$, where $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ and $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$ are independent of temperature. In terms of the Ginzburg-Landau theory modified to include the lower temperatures, the constant $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ determines the penetration depth and the constant $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$ is different for different modifications of the field-independent free energy.Penetration depths determined in this way were found to be a function of thickness. Assuming that the coherence length $\ensuremath{\xi}$ in the film is determined by the thickness and using the expression for the thickness dependence of the penetration depth given by Tinkham, one can obtain a bulk coherence length ${\ensuremath{\xi}}_{0}$ of approximately 2100 \AA{}, as well as a bulk penetration depth of 510 \AA{}, from the data. This way of determining ${\ensuremath{\xi}}_{0}$ is quite different from the high-frequency method of Pippard, and it is proposed as an independent and alternative method.Two particular modifications of the Ginzburg-Landau theory are considered. The first, which is the original theory, predicts a value of $\ensuremath{\epsilon}=0.31$. The second, which is the Gorter-Casimir modification proposed by Bardeen, predicts a value of $\ensuremath{\epsilon}=\ensuremath{-}0.19$. Experimentally, $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$ was determined to have an average value of 0.14\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.10.
Enzyme transient state kinetics in crystal and solution from the perspective of a time-resolved crystallographer

With recent technological advances at synchrotrons [Graber et al., J. Synchrotron Radiat. 18, 658–670 (2011)], it is feasible to rapidly collect time-resolved crystallographic data at multiple temperature settings [Schmidt et al., Acta Crystallogr. D 69, 2534–2542 (2013)], from which barriers of activation can be extracted. With the advent of fourth generation X-ray sources, new opportunities emerge to investigate structure and dynamics of biological macromolecules in real time [M. Schmidt, Adv. Condens. Matter Phys. 2013, 1–10] in crystals and potentially from single molecules in random orientation in solution [Poon et al., Adv. Condens. Matter Phys. 2013, 750371]. Kinetic data from time-resolved experiments on short time-scales must be interpreted in terms of chemical kinetics [Steinfeld et al., Chemical Kinetics and Dynamics, 2nd ed. (Prentience Hall, 1985)] and tied to existing time-resolved experiments on longer time-scales [Schmidt et al., Acta Crystallogr. D 69, 2534–2542 (2013); Jung et al., Nat. Chem. 5, 212–220 (2013)]. With this article, we will review and outline steps that are required to routinely determine the energetics of reactions in biomolecules in crystal and solution with newest X-ray sources. In eight sections, we aim to describe concepts and experimental details that may help to inspire new approaches to collect and interpret these data.
Leukemic macrocheilitis associated with hairy-cell leukemia and the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome

Specific cutaneous infiltrates in hairy-cell leukemia have distinctive histopathologic and histochemical findings. The true incidence of leukemia cutis in hairy-cell leukemia is uncertain, however, because reports often fail to document these distinctive features. A case of leukemic macrocheilitis associated with hairy-cell leukemia and the Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is presented. The Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome is a clinically defined entity composed of Bell's palsy, macrocheilitis, and lingua plicata. Granulomatous cheilitis is often seen on histopathologic examination of the swollen lip tissue; in some cases, however, the findings may be nonspecific. Neoplastic macrocheilitis has not been reported in Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome. Furthermore, leukemic macrocheilitis has not been reported in hairy-cell leukemia. A possible relationship between these entities is proposed.
A synthetic peptide based on a glycine-gated chloride channel induces a novel chloride conductance in isolated epithelial cells

Abstract CK4-M2GlyR, an aqueous soluble peptide derived from the transmembrane M2 segment of the glycine-gated Cl− channel found in postsynaptic membranes of the central nervous system, has previously been shown to increase transepithelial Cl− and fluid secretion of epithelial monolayers. The goal of this study was to determine whether CK4-M2GlyR exerts these effects via formation of a novel chloride conductance pathway, modulation of endogenous chloride channel activity, or a combination of these effects. Ionic currents were recorded from isolated epithelial cells before and after treatment with the peptide using the whole-cell configuration of the patch-clamp technique. CK4-M2GlyR increased whole-cell Cl− currents in all epithelial cell lines that were studied, including: Madin–Darby canine kidney cells, a human colonic epithelial cell line (T84), and airway epithelial cells derived from a human cystic fibrosis patient (IB3-1). No evidence was found for modulation of endogenous Cl− channels by CK4-M2GlyR based on both the electrophysiological properties of the observed currents and the pharmacological profile of the CK4-M2GlyR-induced current. These results suggest that CK4-M2GlyR increases Cl− permeability in epithelial cells directly, by forming a distinct conduction pathway in cell membranes.
Rapid Development of Band Keratopathy in Dry Eyes

In three patients, calcium deposits rapidly developed within the superficial corneal stroma. All eyes had severe desiccation, a bacterial corneal ulcer, and frequent instillation of an artificial tear preparation. Calcium deposition within the ulcer base occurred within two to three weeks.
Ethylene Biosynthesis and Xylogenesis in Lactuca Pith Explants Cultured In Vitro in the Presence of Auxin and Cytokinin: The Effect of Ethylene Precursors and Inhibitors

The possible involvement of ethylene in the induction of xylem differentiation was studied in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Romaine) pith parenchyma expiants. The addition of the ethylene precursors L-methionine (0-25 //M), S-adenosylmethionine (25 /rM) and 1-aminocyclopropane-l-carboxylic acid (0-01 /?M), or the ethylene-releasing agent 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid (1-0 //M), to a standard IAA-kinetin-containing medium enhanced xylogenesis compared to control expiants cultured in the absence of these compounds. In the presence of the ethylene inhibitors aminoethoxyvinylglycine, Co(N03)2 and AgN03, xylogenesis was inhibited. Inhibition of xylogenesis by aminoethoxy vinylglycine (75 /?M), Co(N03)2 (50 //M) and AgN03 (6-0 //M) was reversed by exogenous 1-aminocyclopropane-l-carboxylic acid (0-01 //M), 2-chloroethylphosphonic acid (5-0 ,uM) and L-methionine (0-25 //M), respectively. Ethylene production by expiants cultured on media containing L-methionine or 1-aminocyclopropane-l-carboxylic acid was greater than the biosynthesis of ethylene by expiants cultured in the absence of these compounds. The incorporation of 2-chloroethyl phosphonic acid into the culture medium resulted in higher rates of ethylene production compared to expiants cultured on the IAA-kinetin medium. The presence of either aminoethoxyvinylglycine or Co(N03)2 inhibited ethylene production by expiants cultured on the IAA-kinetin medium. The data support the hypothesis that ethylene plays a positive role in the initiation of xylem differentiation.
The Rhetoric of War and Remembrance: An Analysis of President Bill Clinton's 1994 D-Day Discourses

This close textual analysis of President Clinton's discourses in ceremonies commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of D-Day, held on June 6, 1994, considers the rhetorical context and discursive strategies of the president on an international stage. It argues that Clinton employed generational comparisons to emphasize the gifts bequeathed by an older generation and the obligation to advance the goals of democracy in a new era. The four speeches analyzed provide evidence of the force of prudential reasoning in commemorative situations.
The cytosolic phospholipase A2 catalytic domain modulates association and residence time at Golgi membranes

Cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) catalyzes release of arachidonic acid from membranes following translocation to Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum. In response to an intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) increase, the C2 domain binds Ca2+ and brings the catalytic domain into proximity with its phospholipid substrate. Because membrane residence is important in the regulation of cPLA2 activity, we explored the contributions of the C2 and catalytic domains in mediating membrane residence using an imaging approach in live cells with fluorescent protein chimeras of cPLA2. The isolated cPLA2 C2 domain associated with Golgi membranes rapidly in proportion to the [Ca2+]i, allowing for its use as a [Ca2+]i indicator. cPLA2 association with Golgi was slower than the isolated C2 domain in response to a [Ca2+]i increase. After [Ca2+]i decrease, cPLA2 remained associated with membrane in a Ca(2+)-independent fashion whereas C2 domain rapidly dissociated. Ca(2+)-independent membrane association was greatly reduced by mutation of Trp464, located at the membrane-exposed face of the catalytic domain, to Gly or Ala. Mutation of Trp464 to Phe supported Ca(2+)-independent association similar to wild type. These results demonstrate a role for the cPLA2 catalytic domain in regulating membrane association and membrane residence time.
Copolymerization of ethylene and alkyl vinyl ethers by a (phosphine- sulfonate)PdMe catalyst.

The neutral complex (PO−OMe)PdMe(py) (1, PO−OMe = 2-[bis(2-OMe−Ph)phosphino]-4-methylbenzenesulfonate) polymerizes ethylene to a linear polymer with 1−10 branches/103 carbons (mostly methyl) and vinyl and 2-olefin unsaturated end groups. Complex 1 copolymerizes ethylene and alkyl vinyl ethers (CH2CHOR, 2a−c: R = tBu (a), Et (b), Bu (c)) in toluene at 60−100 °C to linear copolymers containing up to 7 mol % of vinyl ether. Addition of CH2CHOR lowers the polymerization rate and the polymer molecular weight. The copolymer structures are similar to that of homopolyethylene generated under the same conditions. The major comonomer units are −CH2CH(OR)CH2− (I) and CH3CH(OR)CH2− (II). The ethylene/CH2CHOR copolymers can be converted to hydroxy- and bromo-polyethylene. The results of control experiments argue against cationic and radical mechanisms for the copolymerization, and an insertion mechanism is proposed. The reaction of base-free (PO−OMe)PdMe with CH2CHOEt yields the adduct (PO−OMe)PdMe(CH2CHOEt), which u...
Calibrating passive acoustic monitoring: correcting humpback whale call detections for site-specific and time-dependent environmental characteristics.

This paper demonstrates the importance of accounting for environmental effects on passive underwater acoustic monitoring results. The situation considered is the reduction in shipping off the California coast between 2008–2010 due to the recession and environmental legislation. The resulting variations in ocean noise change the probability of detecting marine mammal vocalizations. An acoustic model was used to calculate the time-varying probability of detecting humpback whale vocalizations under best-guess environmental conditions and varying noise. The uncorrected call counts suggest a diel pattern and an increase in calling over a two-year period; the corrected call counts show minimal evidence of these features.
Intestinal fat suppressed intake of fat longer than intestinal sucrose

Although animals eventually stop eating when only experiencing the oro-sensory stimuli from a food, they stop eating much more rapidly if they also receive postgastric stimuli simultaneously. This suggests that the postgastric effects of a nutrient influence the hedonic value of food or motivation to consume that food, and thus, can influence food selection within the time frame of a meal. In this experiment, rats were equipped with a gastric fistula and duodenal cannula. This combination allowed them to receive the same oro-sensory stimuli, but different postgastric nutrients. While ingesting either a fat (Intralipid) or carbohydrate (sucrose) solution, both of which drained from the gastric fistula, the rats received a duodenal infusion of either sucrose (10 mLs, 0.24 kcals/mL), fat (10 mLs, 0.25 kcals/mL) or saline (10 mLs, 0 kcals/mL). While ingesting the Intralipid, a duodenal infusion of fat suppressed intake quicker and longer than an infusion of sucrose. While the animals ingested sucrose, sucrose and fat suppressed intake equivalently.
Fatigue of freshwater ice

Experiments were performed to observe cyclic crack growth in S2 columnar freshwater ice and granular freshwater ice with randomly oriented grains. The ice was loaded in four-point bending such that the crack opened in a mode-I manner. A traveling microscope was used to measure surface crack growth and a low-powered laser was used to map crack growth along the entire crack front. Results of crack growth measurements together with micrographs of failure surfaces support a qualitative description of the failure mechanisms operable near the crack tip during cyclic loading.
Familial interstitial deletion of chromosome 4 (p15.2p16.1)

Interstitial deletion of the proximal short arm of chromosome 4, extending from p14 to p16.1 region, results in a distinct clinical syndrome. This proximal 4p deletion syndrome is characterized by variable degrees of mental retardation, unusual facies and minor dysmorphic features. Majority of the patients also show a tall, ectomorphic habitus and normal to excessive linear growth with age. While there have been several cases of such interstitial del(4p) cases reported, familial transmission of this condition has not been documented in the literature. This is the first report of a familial transmission of proximal del(4p) from a mother to her daughter, with both patients showing similar features. This report of the familial transmission of del(4p) has wider implications in genetic counseling.
Hesiod's Metallurgy Simile ( Th. 861–7)

Hesiod's Theogony contains three similes, each of which elaborates a climactic moment in Zeus' securing of power: an image of bees (594–602) describes the nature of women in the Pandora episode, the aftermath of Zeus' triumph over Prometheus; battle resounds with a crash as if earth and heaven are coming together (699–705) in the climax of the Titanomachy, wherein Zeus and the Olympians overcome the Titans; and Zeus is likened to a craftsman melting ore (861–7) during his conquest of his final challenger, Typhoeus. In each episode complemented by a simile, Zeus' power attains greater stability; in the aftermath of the last of these episodes, the Typhonomachy, his power achieves permanent ascendancy (881–5). Despite the prominent occasions of these similes, they stand largely unexplored. This paper considers the simile of metallurgy in the Typhonomachy, the simile that reconfigures Zeus' final acquisition of power. Positioned at such a critical moment, attention to this simile promises to reveal elements fundamental to an understanding of Zeus' ultimate power.
Watching reprogramming in real time

As a differentiated cell proceeds toward the pluripotent state, markers turn on and off in an orderly fashion.
Trade, Merger and Employment: Economic Theory on Marriage

In this paper I explore two neoclassical theories on marriage which extend the conventional analyses of trade and merger. An alternative perspective on marriage is proposed which extends a Marxian analysis of employment relations. I develop each of the three theories implications concerning the nature of power relations between men and women in the family. Finally I argue that the employment approach produces the most compelling account of the peculiarities of the marriage contract and of the contemporary unprecedented decline in the proportion of United States women who are married. (EXCERPT)
Model for predicting comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography retention times.

Abstract A model for approximating the relative retention of solutes in comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC × GC) is presented. The model uses retention data from standard single-column temperature-programmed separations. The one-dimensional retention times are first converted into retention indices and then these indices are combined in a simple manner to generate a retention diagram. A retention diagram is an approximation of the two-dimensional chromatogram that has retention order and spacing in both dimensions similar to that found in the experimental chromatogram. If required, the retention diagram can be scaled to more closely resemble the two-dimensional chromatogram. The model has been tested by using retention time data from single-column gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and valve-based GC × GC. A total of 139 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were examined. Approximately half of the VOCs had a single functional group and a linear alkyl chain (i.e., compounds with the structure Z (CH 2 ) n H). The retention diagrams had primary retention orders that were in excellent agreement with the GC × GC chromatograms. The relative secondary retention order for compounds with similar structures was also accurately predicted by the retention diagram. However, the relative secondary retention for compounds with dissimilar structures, such as acyclic alcohols and multi-substituted alkylbenzenes, were less accurately modeled. This study demonstrates how readily available single-column retention time data can be used to provide an a priori estimate of the relative retention of solutes in a GC × GC chromatogram. Such a capability is useful for screening possible combinations of stationary phases.
Communication Skills in Children with Cerebral Palsy and Autism Spectrum Disorder

While the literature focusing on communication deficits in children with cerebral palsy (CP) is extensive, few researchers have analyzed this construct in individuals with CP and a comorbid Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to examine impairments in communication in infants and toddlers (18 to 35 months of age) who had CP and comorbid autism, CP and comorbid pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and CP alone. A total of 42 children met inclusion criteria for this study. Those diagnosed with CP and a comorbid ASD were found to possess significantly greater communication impairments as assessed by the Baby and Infant Screen for aUtIsm Traits-Part 1 (BISCUIT-Part 1) than participants who only had a diagnosis of CP. The autism and PDD-NOS groups did not significantly differ from one another on the communication domain of this measure, however. Implications of these results are discussed.
Tracking chromatin states using controlled DNase I treatment and real-time PCR

A novel approach to DNase I-sensitivity analysis was applied to examining genes of the spermatogenic pathway, reflective of the substantial morphological and genomic changes that occur during this program of differentiation. A new real-time PCR-based strategy that considers the nuances of response to nuclease treatment was used to assess the nuclease susceptibility through differentiation. Data analysis was automated with the K-Lab PCR algorithm, facilitating the rapid analysis of multiple samples while eliminating the subjectivity usually associated with Ct analyses. The utility of this assay and analytical paradigm as applied to nuclease-sensitivity mapping is presented.
Association of genetic polymorphisms and risk of late post-transplantation infection in pediatric heart recipients

Background Late infections are common causes of morbidity and mortality after pediatric heart transplantation. In this multicenter study from 6 centers, we investigated the association between genetic polymorphisms (GPs) in immune response genes and late post-transplantation infections in 524 patients. Methods Late infection was defined as a clinical infectious process occurring >60 days after transplantation and requiring hospitalization, intravenous antimicrobial therapy, or a life-threatening infection requiring oral therapy. All patients provided a blood sample for GP analyses of 18 GPs in cytokine, growth factor, and effector molecule genes by single specific primer-polymerase chain reaction and/or sequencing. Significant associations in univariable analyses were tested in multivariable Cox regression models. Results Late infection was common, with 48.7% of patients experiencing ≥1 late infection, 25.2% had ≥1 late bacterial infection, and 30.5% had ≥1 late viral infection. Older age at transplantation was a protective factor for late infection, both bacterial and viral (hazard ratio [HR] 0.89–0.92 per 1-year age increase, p HMOX1 A+326G AG and GG genotypes (HR, 2.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.35–4.30; p = 0.003) and GZMB A-295G AA genotype (HR, 1.47; 95% CI; 1.03–2.1; p = 0.036). Late viral infection was associated with FAS A-670G GG genotype (HR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.00–2.00; p = 0.050) in the adjusted model and with CTLA4 A+49G AA and AG genotypes (HR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.02–2.19; p = 0.041) in univariable analysis. Conclusion We found an association between late bacterial infection and GP of HMOX1 , which may control macrophage activation. A weaker association was also found between late viral infection and GP of CTLA4 , a regulator of T-cell activation. This represents progress toward understanding the clinical and genetic risk factors of outcomes after transplantation.
Magnetic susceptibility of neodymium hexaboride

Abstract Measurements of the magnetic susceptibility of NdB 6 are reported for temperatures between 4° and 250°K. The results indicate that the compound undergoes an antiferro-to-paramagnetic transition at T N = 8.45°K. The mass susceptibility at T = 298°K was determined to be χ m = 23.8 × 10 -6 e.m.u./g, while the value at T N = 8.45°K was 178.0 × 10 -6 e.m.u./g.
Stretch-evoked excitatory postsynaptic potentials in motoneurons

Abstract The profile of excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) produced on triceps surae motoneurons by 5 msec duration triangular wave stretch of de-efferented medial gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus (S) muscles was observed on anesthetized, spinalized cats. With the muscle held at light initial tension a stretch of 1–5 μm amplitude produced a ‘threshold’ EPSP of 25–100 μV. This amplitude is within the range of that reported for synaptic excitation by a single Ia fiber. With the muscle at moderate initial tension, a 5 μm pull on the homonymous muscle produced a well-defined EPSP of 0.4–0.8 mV. As stretch was increased to 60 μm the EPSP grew progressively to a peak of 2–3 mV. Additional stretch to 200 μm had little effect on EPSP size. A second EPSP 1.3–1.5 msec after the first developed with a stretch of 45–60 μm. At 200 μm stretch its size was 50–100% of the first EPSP. Parallel changes occurred in the profile of afferent nerve volleys recorded at the dorsal root entry zone. These data, together with our previous information on isolated afferents, suggest that both volleys are of Ia origin. Stretch-evoked EPSPs were slightly longer in rise time but similar in size and half-decay time to EPSPs evoked by electrical stimulation of the muscle nerve. These results demonstrate the feasibility of determining the ‘strength’ of synaptic connection between Ia afferents and motoneurons by use of a mechanically activated volley of pure Ia origin.
Explicit solutions for stabilization and H ∞ control of time-delayed state-space symmetric systems

The paper examines the stabilization and the H∞ norm performance analysis and control of state-delayed systems with a symmetric state-space realization. Such symmetric realizations appear in many engineering applications. By exploiting the state-space symmetry, we obtain an explicit solution for a bound on the H∞ norm of such symmetric time-delayed systems. Also, we derive an explicit parametrization of static output feedback gains that solve the stabilization and H∞ control synthesis problems. Computational examples are used to demonstrate the significance and validity of the proposed methods and results.
Support for recoverable memory in the distributed virtual communication machine

Distributed Virtual Communication Machine (DVCM) is a software communication architecture for clusters of workstations equipped with programmable network interfaces (Nls) for high-speed networks. DVCM is an extensible architecture, which promotes the transfer of application modules to the NI. By executing "closer" to the network, on the NI CoProcessor, these modules can communicate with significantly higher message rates and lower latencies than achievable at the CPU-level. This paper describes how DVCM modules can be used to enhance the performance of the Cluster Recoverable Memory system (CRMem), a transaction-processing kernel for memory-resident databases. By using the NI CoProcessor for CRMem's remote operations, our implementation achieves more than 3,000 trans/sec on a simplified TpcB benchmark.
Network parameter estimation with detection failures

Distributed sensing systems fuse information from various local measurements to form joint estimates of physical phenomena. We study Bayesian parameter estimation with measurement failures, where the probability of failing to make an observation depends on the unknown parameters. Both the absence and the existence of the measurements provide information about the parameters. We present lower bounds for minimum mean square error estimation. The bounds are applied to the analysis of sensor arrays for source localization and the distributed estimation problem with binary detectors.
CT-guided aspiration in potentially infected total hip replacements complicated by heterotopic bone

Aspiration of the hip joint in the setting of a potentially infected total hip replacement is occasionally unsuccessful under fluoroscopic guidance because of periarticular heterotopic bone. Of 136 consecutive patients with total hip replacements who were referred to the radiology department for hip aspiration because of suspected infection, successful intraarticular needle placement was achieved in 132 (97%) under fluoroscopic guidance. In four (3%) cases, the attempted aspiration was unsuccessful because heterotopic bone prevented the needle tip from reaching the joint; a second attempt was performed successfully under CT guidance. CT confirmed that the anterior approach was completely blocked by heterotopic bone and that there was a gap in this bone elsewhere through which a needle could be passed into the joint. The increased cost of CT was modest because it was necessary in only a small percentage of patients.
A PHYSICALLY BASED TWO-STATE MODEL FOR CONTROLLING EXHAUST RECOMPRESSION HCCI IN GASOLINE ENGINES

Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) presents several advantages over conventional IC engines, including improved efficiency and emissions. It is, however, difficult to implement and control due to the lack of an external combustion trigger. One way to achieve HCCI is to trap and recompress a portion of the exhaust in the cylinder to increase the sensible energy of the air-fuel mixture. Such a strategy, however, introduces a cyclic coupling through the exhaust gas retained from cycle to cycle, making dynamic control non-trivial. In order to develop model-based controllers for HCCI, the authors present a physically motivated two-state model of the HCCI process. This model specifically captures the behavior of a direct inject gasoline engine with an exhaust-recompression strategy used to achieve HCCI. As the trapped exhaust is pivotal in setting up the cyclic coupling, its temperature and the amount of oxygen present in it are selected as the states of the system. The system's dynamics are developed through these states to give a discrete-time nonlinear model that can be validated against a more complex continuous-time model. In this form, the model represents a control-oriented description of the HCCI engine as a thermodynamic system, and can therefore be used as a platform to synthesize various control strategies. As a demonstrative example, a linear representation of the system is derived and used to synthesize an LQR controller to track a desired state trajectory in simulation.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of memantine for cognitive changes with corticosteroid therapy.

Background In animal models, corticosteroids are associated with changes in hippocampal structure and functioning that are prevented by glutamate release inhibitors or N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists. Cushing's disease and prescription corticosteroid administration are also associated with memory impairment and hippocampal atrophy. Use of NMDA receptor antagonists to attenuate corticosteroid effects in humans has not been investigated. We examine the NMDA receptor antagonist memantine in patients receiving corticosteroids. Methods Twenty outpatients receiving long-term oral corticosteroid therapy were randomized to 8 weeks of memantine (maximum dose 20 mg/day) and 8 weeks of placebo in a double-blind fashion, with a 4-week washout period between courses. Declarative memory was assessed with the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test (HVLT) and mood with the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and Young Mania Rating Scale. Changes in outcome measures were compared during memantine and placebo exposure. Results Seventeen participants completed both treatment phases and were used in the analysis. Significant improvement ( p Conclusions Memantine therapy was associated with improvement in declarative memory but not mood in patients receiving prescription corticosteroids.
‘Patient-friendly’ IVF

Authorities on both sides of the Atlantic have, in recent years, given birth to a concept of so-called ‘patient-friendly’ IVF (pf-IVF) [1,2]. Underlying propositions are relatively easily defined: ...
A permanent left ventricular-assist device: in vivo testing

An electric-motor-driven left-ventricular-assist device has been under in vivo evaluation since 1984. The device has been implanted in twelve calves, the longest surviving 174 days and the average survival being 64 days. The device contains a brushless DC motor and a rollerscrew mechanism. The mechanism produces rectilinear motion of a pusher plate, which pushes on the segmented polyurethane blood sac. In three of the twelve animal experiments, a transcutaneous energy transmission system was utilized to transmit energy across the intact skin. The reasons for termination of the experiments were a variety of factors, including cracked polysulfone blood pump cases, inlet obstruction, a broken cable, and rust on components that were manufactured of an improper material. Thromboembolic complications were seen in only one of twelve animals. Average survival times increased from an annual average of 25 days in 1984 to over 74 days in 1987. >
Surface Treatments for Enhanced Bonding Between Inorganic Surfaces and Polymers

Nearly all intermolecular interactions in solution and at interfaces can be reduced to two phenomena: London dispersion forces, and electron donor-acceptor (acid-base) interactions. Hydrogen bonds are included in acid-base interactions, and dipole phenomena are usually negligibly small. Earlier popular notions that all “polar” groups can interact with each other are shown untenable; donor-donor and acceptor-acceptor interactions are negligibly small compared to donor-acceptor interactions. The bonding of polymers to metal surfaces is also governed by donor-acceptor interactions. Semiconducting p-type oxides (as on chromium) are electron-accepting and bond strongly only to polymers with electron-donor groups; n-type oxides (as on aluminum) are electron-donors and bond strongly only to polymers with electron-accepting groups. Some oxides have both kinds of sites. Surface “preparation” of metal oxides usually involves chemical treatments to strengthen donor-acceptor interactions with polymers. Surface analysis techniques allow determination of concentrations and strengths of donor and acceptor groups.
Molecularly engineered variable dielectric nanocomposites to embed precision capacitors on chip

As remarkable as IC production has been, in either bipolar or CMOS configuration there exist limitations to the technology. Passive components, resistors, capacitors, and inductors, are added in significant quantities to ICs to provide functioning devices. In most modern systems, the part count and space required for passive components far exceeds that devoted to the integrated circuits. In some cases, the passives are inevitable to provide a degree of customization to the integrated circuit, providing range change or amplifier gain capability for example. We report on the development of a self assembled silicon polymer nanocomposite dielectric material which undergoes large change in dielectric constant with exposure to deep ultraviolet radiation and its use in capacitor formation. A capacitor thus produced was able to have its electrical value tuned to a precise value optically. The material presents a path for embedding precision capacitors on integrated circuits and eliminates the need for external passive capacitors.
Information criteria for reduced rank canonical correlation analysis

Canonical correlation analysis is an essential technique in the field of multivariate statistical analysis. In this paper, a framework involving unconstrained optimization criteria is proposed for extracting multiple canonical variates and canonical correlations serially and in parallel. These criteria are derived from optimizing three information based functions. Based on the gradient-ascent or descent methods, we derive many algorithms for performing the true CCA recursively. The main feature of this approach is that orthogonal basis for canonical variates is automatically obtained. The first few singular values and vectors can also be obtained using this framework. The performances of the proposed algorithms is demonstated through simulations.
Spectroscopic, Computational and Kinetic Studies of the μ4-Sulfide Bridged Tetranuclear CuZ Cluster in N2O Reductase: pH Effect on the Edge Ligand and its Contribution to Reactivity

A combination of spectroscopy and DFT calculations has been used to evaluate the pH effect at the CuZ site in Pseudomonas nautica (Pn) N2OR and Achromobacter cycloclastes (Ac) N2OR and its relevance to catalysis. Absorption, MCD, EPR with sulfur K-edge XAS spectra of the enzymes at high and low pH show minor changes. However, resonance Raman (rR) spectroscopy of PnN2OR at high pH shows that the 415 cm −1 Cu-S vibration (observed at low pH) shifts to higher frequency, loses intensity and obtains a 9 cm −1 18 O shift, implying significant Cu-O character, demonstrating the presence of a OH − ligand at the CuICuIV edge. From DFT calculations both protonation of the OH − to H2O or the μ4-S 2− to μ4-SH − would produce large spectral changes which are not observed. Alternatively, DFT calculations including a lysine residue at an H-bonding distance from the CuICuIV edge ligand show that the position of the OH − ligand depends on the protonation state of the lysine. This would change the coupling of the Cu-(OH) stretch with the Cu-S stretch, as observed in the rR spectrum. Thus the observed pH effect (pKa ~9.2) likely reflects protonation equilibrium of the lysine residue which would both raise E 0 and provide a proton for lowering the barrier for the N-O cleavage and for reduction of the [Cu4S(im)7OH] 2+ to the fully reduced 4Cu I active form for turnover.
Branched co-polymers of histidine and lysine are efficient carriers of plasmids

We previously determined that a linear co-polymer of histidine and lysine (HK) in combination with liposomes enhanced the transfection efficiency of cationic liposomes. In the current study, we designed a series of HK polymers with increased branching and/or histidine/lysine ratio to determine if either variable affects transfection efficiency. In the presence of liposomes, the branched polymer with the highest number of histidines, HHK4b, was the most effective at enhancing gene expression. Furthermore, when serum was added to the medium during transfection, the combination of HHK4b and liposomes as a gene-delivery vehicle increased luciferase expression 400-fold compared to liposomes alone. In contrast to linear HK polymers, the higher branched HHK polymers were effective carriers of plasmids in the absence of liposomes. Without liposomes, the HHK4b carrier enhanced luciferase expression 15-fold in comparison with the lesser branched HHK2b carrier and increased expression by 5-logs in comparison with the HHK or HK carrier. The interplay of several parameters including increased condensation of DNA, buffering of acidic endosomes and differential binding affinities of polymer with DNA have a role in the enhancement of transfection by the HK polymers. In addition to suggesting that branched HK polymers are promising gene-delivery vehicles, this study provides a framework for the development of more efficient peptide-bond-based polymers of histidine and lysine.
Three-Dimensional Fluid Dynamics in a Two-Dimensional Amount of Central Memory

The subject of this paper is an out-of-core implementation of Chorin’s projection method for the three-dimensional, time-dependent, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations in a periodic box. The implementation is particularly suitable for an architecture such as that of the Cray X-MP/SSD, in which a moderate-sized central memory is coupled to a much larger sequential-access memory. The central-memory requirements are only proportional to N2, not N3. Asynchronous i/o techniques are used to overlap i/o with computation and also i/o with itself. All inner loops are successfully vectorized by the Cray Fortran compiler. On the Cray X-MP/SSD, in the case N = 64, the implementation achieves a balanced distribution of cost between i/o and computation. At N = 128, the i/o efficiency is further increased, and the effective megaflop rate (megaflops/wall time) on a single processor with a dedicated machine is 77 megaflops/sec.
An Empirical Investigation of Viktor Frankl’s Logotherapeutic Model

The purpose of this study was to investigate the logotherapeutic model as described by Frankl that explains the relationships among the search for meaning in life, the presence of meaning in life, ...
Capital and Opposition in Africa: Coalition Building in Multiethnic Societies

Under what conditions can opposition politicians with ethnic constituencies form electoral coalitions? In Africa’s patronage-based political systems, incumbents form coalitions by using state resources to secure the endorsement of politicians from other ethnic groups. Opposition politicians, however, must rely on private resources to do the same. This article presents a political economy theory to explain how the relative autonomy of business from state-controlled capital influences the formation of multiethnic opposition coalitions. It shows that the opposition is unlikely to coalesce across ethnic cleavages where incumbents use their influence over banking and credit to command the political allegiance of business—the largest potential funder of opposition in poor countries. Liberalizing financial reforms, in freeing business to diversify political contributions without fear of reprisal, enable opposition politicians to access the resources needed to mimic the incumbent’s pecuniary coalition-building strategy. A binomial logistic regression analysis of executive elections held across Africa between 1990 and 2005 corroborates the theoretical claim: greater financial autonomy for business—as proxied by the number of commercial banks and the provision of credit to the private sector—significantly increases the likelihood of multiethnic opposition coalitions being formed.
BEYOND LINEARITY AND CIRCULARITY: DECONSTRUCTING SOCIAL SYSTEMS THEORY

This article attempts to clarify the concepts of linearity and circularity as applied to marital and family therapy, especially in light of the credible challenge to the concept of circular causality by feminist theorists. Distinct and theoretically legitimate meanings of linearity are defined-proportionality, unilaterality, and temporality. Circularity is redefined into two distinct meanings-recursivity and holicity. The two meanings of circularity are then subdivided in accord with Bateson's guiding distinction between “substance” and “form” (i.e., physical force and mental information). This reworking of systemic concepts is described as important as a means to justify reformulation of theory in the field. The article concludes with a call for continued deconstruction of social systems concepts as a means toward refinement of the systemic paradigm or as a means toward development of a new paradigm, which, in either case, should acknowledge individual and relational realities.
Comparison of self-organizing map with K-means hierarchical clustering for bioinformatics applications

The self-organizing map (SOM) has emerged as one of the popular choices for clustering data; however, when it comes to point density accuracy of codebooks or reliability and interpretability of the map, the SOM leaves much to be desired. In this paper, we compare the newly developed K-means hierarchical (KMH) clustering algorithm to the SOM. We also introduce a new initialization scheme for the K-means that improves codebook placement and, propose a novel visualization scheme that combines the principal component analysis (PCA) and minimal spanning tree (MST) in an arrangement that ensures reliability of the visualization unlike the SOM. A practical application of the algorithm is demonstrated on a challenging bioinformatics problem.
Operations in the Service Industries: Introduction to the Special Issue

This special issue of Production and Operations Management offers a sample of ongoing research that focuses currently on the services industries. The articles selected cover a spectrum of application areas as well as methodologies.
Visión del mundo e identidad: el arte rupestre en el suroeste de los Estados Unidos (950-1450 d. c.)

Rock art is the product of shared values and worldviews held by members of a given culture at any particular time and place. This paper seeks to identify patterns of social identity, interaction, and change through this lens by reviewing the distributions of the style and content of rock art imagery as it occurs in the landscape throughout the Southwest and in adjacent regions. Synchronic and diachronic continuities and differences are evaluated in terms of spatial patterning in order to suggest regional social relationships and stability as well as points of ideological change, and shifting relationships with Mexico are considered.
Dairy intakes affect bone density in the elderly

Background: Race and sex differences in the effect of diet on bone mineral density (BMD) at the hip in the elderly are unknown. Objectives: This study related cross-sectional nutrient and dairy product consumption to hip BMD in white and black men and women aged60 y and evaluated the influence of nutrient and dairy product consumption on changes in BMD in a white cohort participating in a calcium, vitamin D, or placebo trial. Design: The Health Habits and History Questionnaire was used in 289 white women and 116 white men who participated in the trial and in 265 black women and 75 black men to predict total hip and femoral neck BMD or changes in BMD. Results: Blacks had higher calcium intakes than did whites (700 and 654 mg/d, respectively; P 0.0094), and men had higher calcium intakes than did women (735 and 655 mg/d, respectively; P 0.0007). For men, the correlation between total hip BMD and dairy calcium intake after adjustment for age, race, and weight was 0.23 (P 0.005); this relation was not significant in women (r 0.02, P 0.12). Similar results were found for femoral neck BMD. In the longitudinal study, calcium supplementation reduced bone loss from the total hip and femoral neck in those who consumed1.5 servings of dairy products/d and were 72 y old. Conclusions: Cross-sectional results indicated that higher dairy product consumption is associated with greater hip BMD in men, but not in women. Calcium supplementation protected both men and women from bone loss in the longitudinal study of whites. Am J Clin Nutr 2004;80:1066 –74.
Phylogenetic Relationships of Oraseminae (Hymenoptera: Eucharitidae)

Abstract Old World Oraseminae were revised recently and a phylogeny proposed; however, nothing was known at that time about the biology or immature stages for genera other than Orasema. The immature stages, habits, and host associations of Timioderus and Orasemorpha are herein described, and a new species of Orasema, O. monomoria, is described based on material reared from a species of Monomorium (Formicidae: Myrmicinae) in Madagascar. Using this new information, the relationships of Old World Oraseminae were reanalyzed. After successive weighting of 48 trees, a set of six trees (length 191, retention index 0.80) was found that matched the earlier hypothesis. To better evaluate behavioral traits of Oraseminae, nine species groups of Orasema from the New World were characterized and included in a separate analysis, resulting in 54 successively weighted trees (length 204 steps, retention index 0.81). Results suggest that a host shift to Pheidole (Myrmicinae) and internal parasitism of the host larva by the ...
Genetic and Molecular Analysis of a Gene Encoding Sodium Channels in Drosophila

Among the metazoan organisms used for studies of ion channels, Drosophila is unique in lending itself to detailed genetic analysis. Mutations that perturb membrane excitability can be readily isolated and provide useful material for studies of ion channel structure, function and regulation (reviewed by Ganetzky and Wu 1986). After a mutation has been identified, the relevant gene can be localized cytologically and cloned by recombinant DNA techniques. Because these mutations are isolated originally by virtue of their phenotypic effects on behavior and electrophysiology the product encoded by these genes is generally unknown until the gene has been cloned and sequenced. On the other hand, it is possible to isolate mutations affecting the structure or function of an ion channel even when the protein has not previously been purified biochemically or when its role in membrane excitability has not previously been recognized.
The Case Of Shearsons Unbundled Stock Units: Why Did They Fail And Can Value Be Created?

This paper uses rudimentary financial models to examine the valuation consequences of Shearsons now defunct financial innovation, unbundling. Though in its present form, this attempted financial innovation did not survive, a discussion of the potential value that may have been created is not without merit. First such a discussion may provide insights useful for future innovations. But perhaps more importantly, we suggest that under certain circumstances, for specific firms, unbundling does have the potential to create value.