cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A new method for texture measurements using a general area detector diffraction system

Advances in X-ray texture solutions require new methods and descriptions for the texture analysis process, e.g., when using general area detector diffraction systems. A new method is presented that defines a general pole figure resolution and provides the possibility to optimize strategies for efficient pole figure data collection. Application of the new method improves resolution and (!) speed. New software enables simultaneous monitoring of pole and detector space. This allows a fundamentally better understanding of the collected information, e.g., in situations where peaks overlap or high backgrounds compromise data quality.
Microstructure evolution in austenitic Fe-Cr-Ni alloys irradiated with rotons: comparison with neutron-irradiated microstructures

Abstract Irradiation-induced microstructures of high purity and commercial purity austenitic stainless steels were investigated using proton-irradiation. For high purity alloys, Fe–20Cr–9Ni (HP 304 SS), Fe–20Cr–24Ni and Ni–18Cr–9Fe were irradiated using 3.2 MeV protons between 300°C and 600°C at a dose rate of 7×10 −6 dpa / s to doses up to 3.0 dpa. The commercial purity alloys, CP 304 SS and CP 316 SS were irradiated at 360°C to doses between 0.3 and 5.0 dpa. The dose, temperature and composition dependence of the number density and size of dislocation loops and voids were characterized. The changes in yield strength due to irradiation were estimated from Vickers hardness measurements and compared to calculations using a dispersed-barrier-hardening (DBH) model. The dose and temperature dependence of proton-irradiated microstructure (loops, voids) and the irradiation hardening are consistent with the neutron-data trend. Results indicate that proton-irradiation can accurately reproduce the microstructure of austenitic alloys irradiated in LWR cores.
Thermodynamic properties of transition metals in aqueous solution: 3. The heats of mixing aqueous solutions of CdCl2, NiCl2 and ZnCl2 with NaCl at varying ionic strength at 25°C

The heat of dilution of aqueous solutions of ZnCl2 and the heats of mixing ΔHm of aqueous solutions of CdCl2, NiCl2, and ZnCl2 with NaCl solutions were measured at 25°C. The heats of mixing were made at constant ionic strengths of 0.5, 1.0, and 3.0 molal. The excess enthalpy equations of Pitzer were then fitted to the resulting heats of dilution and heats of mixing data. The resulting parameters are the temperature derivatives of the activity coefficient mixing parameters in the Pitzer system.
Finite element studies of tensile testing on thin film multilayers

Abstract Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to set guidelines for the study of stress-strain relations during thin film tensile testing. Approximations necessary for accurate simulations are discussed as well as guidelines for sample mounting on testing apparatus. Multilayer films were modeled to predict Young's modulus results for tensile testing and compared with experimental data. Low interfacial moduli and cracking in the outer layers were investigated as possible causes of experimental results deviating from those of the simulations.
Room Temperature Hydrogen Gas Sensitivity of Nanocrystalline-Doped Tin Oxide Sensor Incorporated into MEMS Device

Nanocrystalline indium oxide (In2O3)-doped tin oxide (SnO2) thin fdm sensor has been sol-gel dip-coated on a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device. The micro-sensor device is successfully utilized to sense ppm level H2 at room temperature with high sensitivity. The chamber pressure has no pronounce effect on the room temperature H2 sensitivity.
Thermal noise engines

Abstract In this paper, electrical heat engines driven by the Johnson-Nyquist noise of resistors are introduced. They utilize Coulomb’s law and the fluctuation–dissipation theorem of statistical physics. In these engines, resistors, capacitors and switches are the building elements. For best performance, a large number of parallel engines must be integrated to run in a synchronized fashion, and the size of an elementary engine must be at the 10 nm scale. At room temperature, in the most idealistic case, a two-dimensional ensemble of engines of 25 nm size integrated on a 2.5 × 2.5 cm silicon wafer with 10 °C temperature difference between the warm-source and the cold-sink would produce a power of about 0.5 W. Regular and coherent (correlated-cylinder states) versions of these engines are shown and both of them can operate in either four-stroke or two-stroke modes. In the idealistic case, all these engines have Carnot efficiency, which is the highest efficiency possible in any heat engine without violating the second law of thermodynamics.
Scalable Cooperative Vehicle Safety Systems: Adaptive Inter-Vehicle Communication

Scalability is one of the main challenges of cooperative vehicle safety (CVS) systems. In this paper, we describe a demonstration of the scalability solution that we have developed for CVS. The solution is an adaptive communication scheme for safety messages. The demo comprises of a demonstration of the rate control algorithm using recorded vehicle trajectories, and a live demonstration of the power control scheme using emulated interference. We show that the proposed algorithms are able to deliver considerably better performance than the baseline solution for CVS. The demonstration will use several DSRC units as well as visualization and simulation software for visualizing the network dynamics.
Development of Standard Performance Measures for Transportation Demand Management Programs

Increasingly, performance measurement has become part of the transportation conversation, particularly as the measurement relates to the funding of programs and new projects. Political signs indicate that performance measurement is expected to play a greater role in the next U.S. surface transportation reauthorization legislation. Although there has been movement toward the adoption of performance measurement throughout the transportation industry, no standards exist. The challenge is to find comprehensive metrics that can be applied across transportation programs. Even within arenas such as transit, demand management, and highway, no standard for metrics exists. This study identifies trends in performance measurement for transportation demand management (TDM) programs (e.g., commuter outreach, ridesharing, telecommuting programs) to offer a starting point to move toward standardized measures. Although no two TDM programs are completely alike, the use of a specific set of measures as a baseline will help ...
An Analysis of Competitive Interactions in a Patch Back-Reef Environment

Manipulative field experiments were used to test for the existence of competitive interactions between three abundant herbivore species in a shallow back—reef zone. Densities of the territorial threespot damselfish, Eupomacentrus planifrons, and two sea urchins, Diadema antillarum and Echinometra viridis, were altered through addition and removal experiments conducted within patches of staghorn coral, Acropora cervicornis. Removals of each urchin species resulted in population increases of the other urchin. Additions of each urchin species tended to inhibit increases of the other species. Removals of damselfish resulted in increases of the other species. Removals of damselfish resulted in increases in Diadema density within 24 h, while Echinometra density increased during the 3rd d following the perturbation. Dry biomass of algae on ceramic tiles in the lower strata of damselfish removal patches was reduced by 62% as compared with algal biomass in these strata in the presence of damselfish. Wire mesh cages were utilized over a 2—mo period to test the effect of predation on competition at the herbivore level. No significant alteration of species numbers was observed in the absence of predation. Therefore, predation did not appear to affect significantly the distributions and abundances of the adult members of the community. Low predation levels on adults within this system do not appear to alter the competitive interactions between these herbivores. Interference competition by the threespot damselfish appears to mediate competition between the two echinoids, allowing coexistence of all species. The presence of damselfish may reduce destructive echinoid grazing pressure on the coral substrate.
Algorithms of the q2^r× q2^r-point 2D discrete Fourier transform

In this paper, the concept of partitions revealing the two-dimensional discrete Fourier transform (2-D DFT) of order q2 r × q2 r , where r > 1 and q is a positive odd number, is described. Two methods of calculation of the 2-D DFT are analyzed. The q2 r × q2 r -point 2-D DFT can be calculated by the traditional column-row method with 2(q2r) 1-D DFTs, and we propose the fast algorithm which splits each 1-D DFT by the short transforms by means of the fast paired transforms. Another effective algorithm of calculation of the q2 r × q2 r -point 2-D DFT is based on the tensor or paired representations of the image when the image is represented as a set of 1-D signals which define the 2-D transform in the different subsets of frequency-points and they all together cover the complete set of frequencies. In this case, the splittings of the q2 r × q2 r -point 2-D DFT are performed by the 2-D discrete tensor or paired transforms, respectively, which lead to the calculation with a minimum number of 1-D DFTs. Examples of the transforms and computational complexity of the proposed algorithms are given.
Exposure assessment for heavy metal ingestion from a sport fish in Puerto Rico : estimating risk for local fishermen

Sport or subsistence fishermen sometimes underestimate the risks from eating local fish and distrust authorities regarding potential hazards from fish. We report on lead, cadmium, selenium, and mercury levels in snook, locally called robalo (Centropomus spp.), consumed by local fishermen in Puerto Rico, who ate up to 23 fish/wk. Median levels (in ppb, dry weight) for muscle, adipose, and liver ranged from 683 to 780 for lead, 37 to 600 for cadmium, 50 to 146 for mercury, and 361 to 3986 for selenium. Lead levels were similar in all tissues, and selenium and cadmium levels were highest in the liver. Mercury was higher in muscle than in liver. Computing exposure via ingestion for the average fisherman indicated that if one were to consume robalo throughout the year one would be exposed in excess of the EPA Reference Dose (RfD) for mercury. Using a widely accepted maximum consumption of 200 g/d for fishermen yielded hazard indices (daily consumption/ RfD) below 1 for all four metals, with a value approaching...
Non-destructive identification of defects in integrated circuit packages by scanning acoustic microscopy

Scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) has emerged as a powerful tool for the detection of defects in ceramic or plastic packaged integrated circuits. At the Singapore Institute of Standards and Industrial Research, we have been using SAM to identify packaging and/or assembly related defects across a broad spectrum of integrated circuit packages. In many cases, it has been the only technology available that is capable of quickly and non-destructively determining the precise failure mode, such as delamination.
CROSSFLOW INSTABILITIES - THEORY & TECHNOLOGY

Over the years, the crossflow instability has been the primary challenge for Laminar Flow Control (LFC). Favorable pressure gradients used to stabilize streamwise instabilities destabilize crossflow. For years, it seemed as though the only solution to crossflow control was surface suction. The perceived complications with moving parts and additional maintenance were always discouraging factors toward laminarizing swept wings.
Echocardiography in Acute Coronary Syndrome: Anatomy, Essential Views and Imaging Plains

Introduction A plentiful arterial circulation is required for an effective myocardial function during both systole and diastole. This supply/demand coupling is accomplished through regional matching of the arterial supply to a particular portion of the myocardium. Arterial circulation of the heart consists of two parts: (1) large epicardial coronary arteries which serve as conduit vessels, and (2) medium-size and small intramyocardial coronary arterioles which serve as resistance vessels regulating the amount of coronary flow according to myocardial metabolic needs. Perturbation in any portion of this arterial tree will lead to a regional myocardial dysfunction. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is the clinical manifestation of a diminished coronary arterial blood supply in either conduit or resistance coronary vessels that is most commonly caused by atherosclerosis. In this chapter, we will discuss the epicardial circulation; the anatomy and function of resistance vessels will be discussed in Chapter 5.
The Genetic Response to Snowball Earth: Role of HSP90 in the Cambrian Explosion

The events that shaped the Cambrian explosion from 545 to 530 myr ago, when multicellular animals suddenly appeared in the fossil record, are not fully understood. It is likely that the evolution of new transcription factors and other signal transduction proteins that regulated developmental networks were important in the emergence of diverse animal phyla seen in the Cambrian. I propose that one or both extensive glaciations that ended about 670 myr and 635 myr ago were important in the evolution of signal transduction proteins in small animals in the Neoproterozoic/Proterozoic. These glaciations have been called Snowball Earth. One consequence of these glaciations is that they increased the expression of genetic diversity in animals due to the effect of extreme climatic stress on heat shock protein 90 (HSP90). Climatic stress diverted HSP90 from chaperoning the folding and proper intracellular localization of many signal transduction proteins that regulate development in animals. As a result, pre-existing mutant signal transduction proteins and developmental pathways were expressed in animals. Selectively advantageous mutations were fixed in stem group animals and later were a source for the expansion of animal phyla during the Cambrian.
Studying protein-carbohydrate interactions by amide hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry

Protein-carbohydrate interactions play a significant role in biological processes. Presented here is the novel application of amide hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (amide exchange-MS) to the study of the interaction between a protein and its carbohydrate substrate. The degree of deuterium incorporation into hen egg lysozyme was monitored with and without substrate to verify that a carbohydrate can provide sufficiently stable protection of the amide hydrogen atoms in a protein's backbone from exchange with deuterated solvent. The substrate protected a number of amide hydrogens from exchange, implying that protein-carbohydrate binding systems will be compatible with amide exchange-MS. Endopolygalacturonase-II (EPG-II) from Aspergillus niger, a pectin-degrading enzyme, was chosen as the first carbohydrate-binding system to be extensively studied using quenched amide exchange-MS. Monitoring the changes in deuterium incorporation of EPG-II in the presence and absence of an oligomer of galacturonic acid implied the location of substrate binding. This study demonstrates the ability of amide exchange-MS to investigate protein-carbohydrate interactions.
cAMP/PKA-mediated regulation of amino acid metabolism in murine T-lymphoma cells (1095.16)

The second messenger cyclic AMP (cAMP), acting through PKA, influences gene and protein expression through CREB and other transcription factors. In order to define the proteins whose expression is regulated by cAMP and protein kinase A (PKA), we conducted quantitative proteomic studies of wild-type (WT) and kin- (PKA-null) S49 murine T lymphoma cells and compared the impact on protein expression of increases in cAMP by a cell-permeable analog (8-CPT-cAMP, CPT). Numerous proteins involved in branched chain amino acid metabolism had markedly increased expression in WT S49 cells, but not kin- cells, treated with CPT for 16h. Expression of mRNA levels of these genes also increased in WT, but not kin-, S49 cells in response to treatment with CPT. Consistent with this finding, incubation of WT S49 cells with CPT enhanced cell survival in growth media lacking glutamine, whereas kin- S49 cells show decreased viability in such media even in the presence of 8-CPT-cAMP. We conclude that cAMP acts via PKA to regulate...
Rate-scalable UWB for WPAN with heterogeneous nodes

The desire for untethered communications spurs increasing interests in wireless sensor networks (WSN) and multimedia communications, including wireless personal area networks (WPAN) with variable rates over a short range. Emerging as a promising candidate for these applications, ultra-wideband (UWB) is gaining increasing attention. However, existing research on UWB overlooks one critical issue in enabling seamless network communications: the heterogeneity among network nodes. This paper addresses this issue by designing simple transmission and reception schemes between network nodes with different sampling rates. Our novel communication schemes designed for asymmetric transceiver pairs are readily applicable to achieve seamless communications among heterogeneous network nodes with multi-access capability. We also establish a general system model, which facilitates further delineation and optimization of complexity-performance-rate tradeoffs.
Evaluating Sweet Potato as an Intervention Food to Prevent Vitamin A Deficiency

Abstract: Vitamin A (VA) deficiency causes over 600000 deaths per year, mostly of young children or pregnant women. Populations prone to VA deficiency obtain about 82% of their VA from plant sources that are rich in pro-VA carotenoids such as beta-carotene. Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP) are an especially good source. We evaluated OFSP carotenoid concentrations, bioaccessibility, and cooking and storage, then used this to estimate the amount of OFSP needed to supply 100% of VA for people at risk for deficiency. The grams/day of OFSP needed to meet VA requirements varies with age and sex, and with the amount of beta-carotene in the OFSP. Amounts ranged from 6 to 33 g/d (0.02 to 0.13 cups/d) for a 3-y-old child with marginal VA status; to 68 to 381 g/d, (0.27 to 1.49 cups/d) for a lactating woman with good status. These are amounts that can be eaten on a daily basis. The amount of OFSP needed to supply the VA requirement to all of the 208.1 million people most in danger of VA deficiency for 1 y is 2.1 to 11.7 million metric tons, or 2% to 11% of current world sweet potato production. The most important factor influencing the effectiveness of sweet potato for preventing VA deficiency, by far, is the variety of sweet potato used. Fat in the diet is also important. We conclude that OFSP could prevent VA deficiency in many food-deficit countries—if OFSP were substituted for white, cream, yellow, or purple sweet potatoes.
The Humorous Side of Foreign Language Teaching

Author's Summary— Various examples of comical errors in French translation and composition, with an attempt to analyze some of them.
Ultrasonic diagnosis of liver metastases

Twenty-one patients were investigated with ultrasound for the diagnosis of liver metastases. The most common specific appearances of liver metastases encountered in this series were echogenic nodules and transsonic areas within an echogenic parenchyma. Nonspecific signs include hepatomegaly, distortion of the hepatic outline and alteration of the normal liver architecture. The results of this study suggest that the accuracy of this method of identifying liver metastases may be high.
Multiresolution approximation scale and time-shift subspaces

Multiresolution Approximation subspaces are $$\mathcal{L}^{2}(\mathbb{R})$$ -subspaces defined for each scale over all time shifts, i.e., "scale subspaces", while with respect to a given wavelet, the signal space $$\mathcal{L}^{2}(\mathbb{R})$$ not only admits orthogonal scale subspaces basis, but orthogonal "time shift subspaces" basis as well. It is therefore natural to expect both scale subspaces and time shift subspaces to play a role in Wavelet Theory and, in particular, in Multiresolution Approximation as well. This is what will be discussed in the paper.
An examination of social network characteristics of men who have sex with men who use drugs.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the social network characteristics of men who have sex with men (MSM) to men who did not have sex with men (NMSM) in a sample of predominately African-American drug users. Specifically, we were interested in examining the differences in structure of the networks and drug and sexual risk partners within the network. Methods: Data came from 481 male participants who reported having ⩾1 sex partner in the past 90 days. MSM were defined as having sex with a male. Data on social network composition were collected using a Social Network Inventory. Results: Of 481 men, 7% (n = 32) were categorised as MSM. Nearly two-thirds of MSM did not identify as gay. MSM were more likely to be HIV positive compared with NMSM. Social networks of MSM were younger and a greater proportion was HIV positive. After adjusting for HIV status, networks of MSM were less dense indicating fewer connections among network members. Among injection drug using men in the sample, MSM reported a greater number of needle sharing networks than NMSM. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of including social network factors in investigations of HIV risk among MSM. Further studies should focus on dynamics within a network and how they may operate to affect behaviour and health.
Reforming the legal curriculum: Integration into the practice

ABSTRACT Legal education in the United States is at a crisis point. Simultaneously confronting scathing critiques and mounting market forces, legal education must change to survive. Experiential education offers the hope of increasing the relevance of legal education to the practice of law, and many law schools have adopted new programs where students learn through experience. This article provides an overview of legal education and describes the rise of experiential legal education. The article concludes with a description of an innovative program that integrates the practice in the joint enterprise of educating tomorrow’s lawyers. RESUMEN La reforma curricular en los estudios de Derecho: la integracion de la practica La formacion de los profesionales del Derecho en los Estados Unidos se encuentra en un momento de crisis. Se enfrenta simultaneamente a severas criticas y a la presion de las fuerzas del mercado, por lo que debe cambiar para poder sobrevivir. La educacion experiencial ofrece la posibilidad de incrementar la relevancia del aprendizaje de la practica del Derecho en la formacion de los futuros juristas y un gran numero de Escuelas de Derecho han puesto ya en marcha nuevos programas formativos en los que los estudiantes aprenden a traves de la experiencia. Este articulo proporciona una vision general de la formacion juridica y explica como surgio el enfoque de la educacion basada en la experiencia en este sector, concluyendo con la descripcion de un programa innovador que integra la practica en la empresa conjuntamente con la formacion de los abogados del manana.
Transient expression of LIM-domain transcription factors is coincident with delayed maturation of photoreceptors in the chicken retina

In the retina of warm-blooded vertebrates, photoreceptors are specified many days before the onset of synaptogenesis and the expression of photopigments. The factors that regulate the maturation of photoreceptors in the developing retina remain unknown. We report here that photoreceptors transiently express LIM-domain transcription factors during the development of the chicken retina. We examined the differentiation of photoreceptors through the normal course of embryonic development and at the far periphery of the postnatal retina, where the differentiation of photoreceptors is slowed and persists across a spatial gradient. In the embryonic retina, we find visinin-positive photoreceptors that transiently express Islet2 and Lim3 starting at E8 and ending around E15, but persisting in far peripheral regions of the retina through the first 2 weeks of postnatal development. During early stages of photoreceptor maturation, there is coincident and transient expression of the LIM-domain factors with axonin1, a cell surface glycoprotein that is a member of the immunoglobulin super family. Coincident with the down-regulation of Islet2 and Lim3, we find the up-regulation of calbindin, red/green opsin, rhodopsin and a synaptic marker in the OPL (dystrophin). In the periphery of the postnatal retina, photoreceptors that express Islet2, Lim3 and axonin1 do not overlap with photoreceptors that express calbindin, red/geen opsin, rhodopsin, and dystrophin. We propose that Islet2 and Lim3 may promote the expression of genes that are involved in the early stages of differentiation, but may suppress the expression of genes that are required in the mature photoreceptors.
Flow cytometric measurement of circulating endothelial cells: the effect of age and peripheral arterial disease on baseline levels of mature and progenitor populations.

Background: Age and cardiovascular disease status appear to alter numbers and function of circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). Despite no universal phenotypic definition, numerous studies have implicated progenitors with apparent endothelial potential in local responses to vascular injury and with cardiovascular disease in general. To further define the role of this lineage in peripheral artery disease (PAD), we developed a multiparameter flow cytometry assay to analyze multiple phenotypic definitions of progenitor cells (PCs), EPCs, and mature endothelial cells (ECs) and evaluate effects of age and PAD on baseline levels of each subset. Methods: Blood was collected from young healthy subjects (N = 9, mean age 33 6 8 years), older healthy subjects (N = 13, mean age 66 6 8 years), and older subjects with PAD (N = 15, mean age 69 6 8 years). After ammonium chloride lysis, cells were stained and analyzed on a Becton-Dickinson LSR II with a 5-color antibody panel: FITC-anti-CD31, PE-anti-CD146, PE-anti-CD133, PerCP-Cy5.5-anti-CD3, -CD19,-CD33 (lineage panel), PE-Cy7-anti-CD34, and APC-anti-VEGF-R2. Viability was assessed by propidium iodide exclusion, and only viable, low to medium side scatter lineage-negative singlets were analyzed. In some studies, cells were sorted for morphological studies. Subsets were defined as indicated later. Results: Our results, using a comprehensive flow cytometric panel, indicate that CD133+, CD34+, and CD133+/CD34+ PCs are elevated in younger healthy individuals compared to older individuals, both healthy and with PAD. However, the number of EPCs and mature ECs did not significantly differ among the three groups. Assessment of endothelial colony forming units and dual acLDL-lectin staining supported the flow cytometric findings. Conclusions: We describe a comprehensive flow cytometric method to detect circulating mature and progenitor endothelial populations confirmed by conventional morphological and functional assays. Our findings suggest that aging may influence circulating levels of PCs, but not EPCs or ECs; PAD had no effect on baseline levels of any populations investigated. This study provides the basis for evaluating the potential effects of acute stress and therapeutic intervention on circulating progenitor and endothelial populations as a biomarker for cardiovascular status. q 2006 International Society for Analytical Cytology Key terms: progenitor cells; peripheral arterial disease; aging; endothelial cell
Measuring the cost of plasticity: a problem of statistical non-independence

Costs of plasticity are generally measured by the absolute difference between trait values in two or more environments, and both trait value and plasticity costs are correlated with fitness using multiple regression [[1][1]]. A recent paper [[2][2]] discussed the consequences of a correlation
Mast cell deficiency in KitW-sh mice does not impair antibody-mediated arthritis

We previously reported that joint swelling, synovial thickening, and cartilage matrix depletion induced by the injection of anti-collagen monoclonal antibodies and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in BALB/c mice are increased in the absence of inhibitory leukocyte immunoglobulin (Ig)-like receptor B4 (LILRB4; formerly gp49B1) in a neutrophil-dependent manner. Because both mast cells and neutrophils express LILRB4, we sought a mast cell requirement with mast cell–deficient mouse strains, but unexpectedly obtained full arthritis in KitW-sh mice and full resistance in KitW/KitW-v mice. KitW-sh mice were indeed mast cell deficient as assessed by histology and the absence of IgE/mast cell–dependent passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in the ear and joint as well as passive systemic anaphylaxis. Deletion of LILRB4 in KitW-sh mice exacerbated anti-collagen/LPS-induced joint swelling that was abolished by neutrophil depletion, establishing a counterregulatory role for LILRB4 in the absence of mast cells. Whereas blood neutrophil levels and LPS-elicited tissue neutrophilia were equal in KitW-sh and Kit+ mice, both were impaired in KitW/KitW-v mice. Although both strains are mast cell deficient and protected from IgE-mediated anaphylactic reactions, their dramatically different responses to autoantibody-mediated, neutrophil-dependent immune complex arthritis suggest that other host differences determine the extent of mast cell involvement. Thus, a conclusion for an absolute mast cell role in a pathobiologic process requires evidence from both strains.
An Experimental/Computational Approach to Identify Moduli and Residual Stress in MEMS Radio-Frequency Switches

In this paper, we identify the Young's modulus and residual stress state of a free-standing thin aluminum membrane, used in MEMS radio-frequency (rf) switches. We have developed a new methodology that combines a membrane deflection experiment (MDE) and three-dimensional numerical simulations. Wafer-level MDE tests were conducted with a commercially available nanoindenter. The accuracy and usefulness of the MDE is confirmed by the repeatability and uniformity of measured load-deflection curves on a number of switches with both wedge and Berkovich tips. It was found that the load-deflection behavior is a function of membrane elastic properties, initial residual stress state and corresponding membrane shape. Furthermore, it was assessed that initial membrane shape has a strong effect on load-deflection curves; hence, its accurate characterization is critical. Through an iterative process and comparison between MDE data and numerical simulations, the Young's modulus and residual stress state, consistent with measured membrane shape, were identified. One important finding from this investigation is that variations in membrane elastic properties and residual stress state affect the load-deflection curve in different regimes. Changes in residual stress state significantly affect the load-deflection slope at small values of deflection. By contrast, variations in Young's modulus result in changes in load-deflection slope at large deflections. These features are helpful to decouple both effects in the identification process.
Stress-hyperglycemia, insulin and immunomodulation in sepsis

Stress-hyperglycemia and insulin resistance are exceedingly common in critically ill patients, particularly those with sepsis. Multiple pathogenetic mechanisms are responsible for this metabolic syndrome; however, increased release of pro-inflammatory mediators and counter-regulatory hormones may play a pivotal role. Recent data suggests that hyperglycemia may potentiate the pro-inflammatory response while insulin has the opposite effect. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that tight glycemic control will improve the outcome of critically ill patients. This paper reviews the pathophysiology of stress hyperglycemia in the critically ill septic patient and outlines a treatment strategy for the management of this disorder.
Ritual, Cultural Standardization, and Orthopraxy in China Reconsidering James L. Watson’s Ideas

This special issue contains five reassessments of James L. Watson’s influential ideas on the role of ritual in cultural standardization: Kenneth Pomeranz (History, UC Irvine) examines the Bixia yuanjun cult; Michael Szonyi (East Asian Languages and Civilizations, Harvard) analyzes the Five Emperors’ cult and ancestral sacrifices in Fuzhou; Paul Katz (Modern History, Academia Sinica) discusses the cult of Marshal Wen and blood sacrifices to banners; Melissa Brown (Anthropological Sciences, Stanford) takes up the case of frontier acculturation; and Donald Sutton (History, Carnegie Mellon) looks at death rituals. To round out the special issue, Professor Watson adds his own rejoinder. On the basis of these essays and other recent scholarship, the introduction in turn questions the effectiveness of state standardization, outlines the phenomenon of heteroprax standardization, argues that “pseudo-orthoprax” local elites subverted the state’s cultural policies, reconsiders the applicability of the paired terms “...
Comparison of risk management in Taiwan and the USA

Aim The purpose of this paper is to compare and contrast the systems of risk management between a hospital in the USA and a hospital in Taiwan. Background By comparing both systems, nurses and managers will have a better understanding of risk management improvements and be in a better position to protect their patients and themselves. Evaluation Two interviews were conducted and literature were collected and reviewed by the author to support the argument. The gathered information was analysed to demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of both hospital systems. Key issues Although risk management is not difficult to understand, nurses and managers usually pay insufficient attention to it. Conclusion Health care providers should work as a team to complete risk assessment and management in their workplaces. There are weaknesses to be improved and strengths to be continued and addressed in Taiwan and in the USA.
The Dithiol:Disulfide Oxidoreductases DsbA and DsbB of Rhodobacter capsulatus Are Not Directly Involved in Cytochrome c Biogenesis, but Their Inactivation Restores the Cytochrome c Biogenesis Defect of CcdA-Null Mutants

The cytoplasmic membrane protein CcdA and its homologues in other species, such as DsbD of Escherichia coli, are thought to supply the reducing equivalents required for the biogenesis of c-type cytochromes that occurs in the periplasm of gram-negative bacteria. CcdA-null mutants of the facultative phototroph Rhodobacter capsulatus are unable to grow under photosynthetic conditions (Ps(-)) and do not produce any active cytochrome c oxidase (Nadi(-)) due to a pleiotropic cytochrome c deficiency. However, under photosynthetic or respiratory growth conditions, these mutants revert frequently to yield Ps(+) Nadi(+) colonies that produce c-type cytochromes despite the absence of CcdA. Complementation of a CcdA-null mutant for the Ps(+) growth phenotype was attempted by using a genomic library constructed with chromosomal DNA from a revertant. No complementation was observed, but plasmids that rescued a CcdA-null mutant for photosynthetic growth by homologous recombination were recovered. Analysis of one such plasmid revealed that the rescue ability was mediated by open reading frame 3149, encoding the dithiol:disulfide oxidoreductase DsbA. DNA sequence data revealed that the dsbA allele on the rescuing plasmid contained a frameshift mutation expected to produce a truncated, nonfunctional DsbA. Indeed, a dsbA ccdA double mutant was shown to be Ps(+) Nadi(+), establishing that in R. capsulatus the inactivation of dsbA suppresses the c-type cytochrome deficiency due to the absence of ccdA. Next, the ability of the wild-type dsbA allele to suppress the Ps(+) growth phenotype of the dsbA ccdA double mutant was exploited to isolate dsbA-independent ccdA revertants. Sequence analysis revealed that these revertants carried mutations in dsbB and that their Ps(+) phenotypes could be suppressed by the wild-type allele of dsbB. As with dsbA, a dsbB ccdA double mutant was also Ps(+) Nadi(+) and produced c-type cytochromes. Therefore, the absence of either DsbA or DsbB restores c-type cytochrome biogenesis in the absence of CcdA. Finally, it was also found that the DsbA-null and DsbB-null single mutants of R. capsulatus are Ps(+) and produce c-type cytochromes, unlike their E. coli counterparts, but are impaired for growth under respiratory conditions. This finding demonstrates that in R. capsulatus the dithiol:disulfide oxidoreductases DsbA and DsbB are not essential for cytochrome c biogenesis even though they are important for respiration under certain conditions.
Thermal stability studies of diamond-like carbon films

Thin films of amorphous carbon/hydrogen, also known as diamond-like carbon or DLC, are of interest as an economical alternative to diamond in a variety of coatings applications. We have investigated the thermal stability of DLC films deposited onto tungsten and aluminum substrates via plasma CVD of methane. These films contain approximately 40 atom % hydrogen, and based on Auger spectra the carbon in the films is estimated to be approximately 60 % sp3 hybridized and 40 % sp2 hybridized. Thermal desorption, Auger, and Raman measurements all indicate that the DLC films are stable to 250–300° C. Between 300 and 500° C, thermal evolution of hydrogen from the films is accompanied by the conversion of carbon from sp3 to sp2 hybridization, and Raman spectra indicate the conversion of the overall film structure from DLC to micro-crystalline graphite or so-called “glassy” carbon. These results suggest that DLC of this type is potentially useful for applications in which the temperature does not exceed 250° C.
Is There Any Difference In The Retirement Intentions Of Female And Male Physicians

Since the percentage of active female physicians in the United States is increasing rapidly, their retirement behavior will represent an important organizational and policy consideration in years to come. The present study, is the first to explore possible differences in retirement intentions among female versus male physicians. Findings are based on data obtained from a random national survey of nearly four thousand physicians regarding factors potentially relevant to their retirement. Our empirical analysis identifies several factors that are correlated with male and female physicians retirement intentions. Significant factors affecting male physicians retirement decisions include: expected social security income, pension income, the availability of early retirement incentives, decreasing annual income, current age, the existence of dependents in the family, years of service as a physician, the health status of ones spouse, stress/burnout, personal interests, the availability of part-time jobs, and general working conditions. In the case of female physicians significant variables are: other expected income, perceived adequacy of retirement income, current age, years of service, work stress/burnout, the availability of part-time jobs, and the employment setting. An understanding of these factors is potentially important for healthcare administrators in dealing with the retention and retirement issues of the female and male physicians and may lead to more effective institutional decision making in this regard.
MODELLING OF SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY SPRINGS FOR PASSIVE VIBRATION ISOLATION

In this work, a basis is set forth for studying the effect of Shape Memory Alloy pseudoelasticity on the behavior of vibrating systems. A physically based model for Shape Memory Alloy psuedoelastic response is modified to predict the component level response of Shape Memory Alloy springs and is integrated into a numerical solution of the non-linear dynamic system that results from the inclusion of Shape Memory Alloy components in a dynamic structural system. The effect of pseudoelasticity on a dynamic system is investigated for various loading levels and system configurations, and the importance of large amplitude motion is discussed. Promising results from these investigations, and the application of these studies to experimental work in progress by the authors are briefly discussed.
Increasing Emergency Preparedness.

Examining the issues faced by U.S. health care organizations—and the policies to address them.
Genetic Characterization of Two Populations of Bonneville Cutthroat Trout in Great Basin National Park, USA

Abstract. The cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) is a popular sport fish that is native to the waters of western North America. Cutthroat trout comprises many subspecies, each of which has experienced range reduction resulting from anthropogenic activities. Hence, there is a general interest from management agencies to assess the genetic structure of managed populations of cutthroat trout subspecies to ensure that proper conservation plans are implemented. Herein, we utilize microsatellite data to characterize the genetic composition of 2 populations of Bonneville cutthroat trout in Great Basin National Park: Mill Creek and South Fork Big Wash. Mill Creek was used as a source population for reintroduction into South Fork Big Wash in the year 2000, and there is concern that South Fork Big Wash may have experienced a population bottleneck after, or during, the stocking effort. We found that both populations exhibit low genetic diversity, and that the source population, Mill Creek, exhibited mixed signal...
The First Credit Bureau

This case can be used in courses on credit markets, emerging markets finance, and economic and financial development. The Pragma Corporation, a northern Virginia-based international development consulting firm, won a bid put out in 2001 by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to help develop a credit bureau in Kazakhstan. Between 2001 and 2003, Javier Piedra, a senior consultant at Pragma, and a team of four local consultants assessed the market opportunity, prepared a business plan, and made the case to senior Kazakhstani government and private-sector officials that it was possible to develop a well-functioning private credit bureau based on international best practices. Key stakeholders accepted much of FSI’s theoretical argument, but it was not clear that the financial community was willing to transfer their proprietary data, perhaps their most important asset to a credit bureau. To move forward, Piedra and his team had to negotiate with various stakeholders around two complex issues--the ownership and governance structure for the credit bureau and a legal framework for sharing credit data--and persuade a majority of the banks to share their data. The case gives detailed information on the credit bureau’s business plan.
MEK1/2 inhibitors reverse acute vascular occlusion in mouse models of sickle cell disease

In sickle cell disease (SCD), treatment of recurrent vasoocclusive episodes, leading to pain crises and organ damage, is still a therapeutic challenge. Vasoocclusion is caused primarily by adherence of homozygous for hemoglobin S (SS) red blood cells (SSRBCs) and leukocytes to the endothelium. We tested the therapeutic benefits of MEK1/2 inhibitors in reversing vasoocclusion in nude and humanized SCD mouse models of acute vasoocclusive episodes using intravital microscopy. Administration of 0.2, 0.3, 1, or 2 mg/kg MEK1/2 inhibitor to TNF-α-pretreated nude mice before human SSRBC infusion inhibited SSRBC adhesion in inflamed vessels, prevented the progression of vasoocclusion, and reduced SSRBC organ sequestration. By use of a more clinically relevant protocol, 0.3 or 1 mg/kg MEK1/2 inhibitor given to TNF-α-pretreated nude mice after human SSRBC infusion and onset of vasoocclusion reversed SSRBC adhesion and vasoocclusion and restored blood flow. In SCD mice, 0.025, 0.05, or 0.1 mg/kg MEK1/2 inhibitor also reversed leukocyte and erythrocyte adhesion after the inflammatory trigger of vasoocclusion and improved microcirculatory blood flow. Cell adhesion was reversed by shedding of endothelial E-selectin, P-selectin, and αvβ3 integrin, and leukocyte CD44 and β2 integrin. Thus, MEK1/2 inhibitors, by targeting the adhesive function of SSRBCs and leukocytes, could represent a valuable therapeutic intervention for acute sickle cell vasoocclusive crises.
Ultra-low power sensing platform for personal health and personal environmental monitoring

The vision of the NSF Center on Advanced Self-Powered Systems of Integrated Sensors and Technologies (ASSIST) is to develop nano-enabled technologies to achieve a paradigm shift towards long-term health and wellness management. To achieve this, the center is building self-powered, wearable and multimodal sensing systems for correlation of environmental exposures to physiological parameters. This paper presents the latest advances in environmental and personal health sensors that have ultra-low power consumption and are highly selective and sensitive to enable real time, continuous, and wearable platforms.
Moxalactam: Clinical Summary of Efficacy and Safety

The efficacy and safety of moxalactam disodium were studied by 173 investigators in the United States. Of 3,558 adult and pediatric patients who were treated for various infections, 2,234 met all protocol requirements for evaluation of efficacy of treatment. Effectiveness of moxalactam therapy was defined by a satisfactory bacteriologic response. The pooled data revealed that satisfactory responses were obtained in 80% of urinary tract infections, 91% of intraabdominal infections, 91% of obstetric and gynecologic infections, 92% of lower respiratory tract infections, 92% of skin and skin-structure infections, 90% of bone and joint infections, and 94% of bacteremic infections. The overall rate of efficacy of moxalactam therapy was 89%. The incidence of adverse reactions was low. Hypersensitivity occurred in 2.9% of the 3,558 patients, and gastrointestinal adverse effects, in 2.1%. No renal or hepatic toxicity was related to moxalactam therapy. Hypoprothrombinemia occurred in 25 patients, with clinically apparent bleeding in three. Alcohol intolerance was observed in four patients.
Comparative Study of Prestressed Concrete Girder and Steel Plate Girder for Roadway Over Bridge

Bridge design is an important as well as complex approach of structural engineer. As in case of bridge design, span length and live load are always important factor. These factors affect the conceptualization stage of design. Prestressed Concrete and Steel plate are commonly used for constructing bridges. This project presents the comparative study of prestressed concrete girder and steel plate girder for roadway over bridge. This work includes the cost analysis and design of prestressed concrete girder and steel girder. In the good olden days, for higher spans, steel girders whether plate girders or triangulated girders were pre-dominantly used. After the advent of pre-stressed concrete, its use in higher span bridges increased tremendously. Main reason behind use of PSC girders is due to its initial economical cost. No doubt, PSC girders are economical in the initial stage of construction, but the same may not be true if we consider the life cycle cost including other factors. The aim of this work is to design prestressed concrete and steel girder for various span and then compare the result. . Based on the understanding of the manual design procedure, a computer program in MS EXCEL was developed for designing both prestressed concrete and steel plate girder. The goal of study is to determine most favourable option from above two.