cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vergleich von gepulster Duplex-Sonographie mit dem CW-Doppler bei der Überwachung von Schwangeren

Seit Einfuhrung der Doppler-Sonographie in die Geburtshilfe kommt bei der Untersuchung der fetalen und maternalen Blutgefase sowohl der kontinuierliche als auch der gepulste Doppler zur Anwendung. Ziel der hier vorliegenden Studie war es zu uberprufen, inwieweit Befunde, die mittels gepulsten Doppler-Scanner routinemasig in unserer Klinik erhobem werden, mit einem CW-Doppler-Gerat reproduzierbar sind
Vascular Effects of Estrogen and Cholesterol-Lowering Therapies in Hypercholesterolemic Postmenopausal Women

Background —Lipoproteins affect endothelium-dependent vasomotor responsiveness. Because lipoprotein effects of estrogen and cholesterol-lowering therapies differ, we studied the vascular responses to these therapies in hypercholesterolemic postmenopausal women. Methods and Results —We randomly assigned 28 women to conjugated equine estrogen (CE) 0.625 mg, simvastatin 10 mg, and their combination daily for 6 weeks. Compared with respective baseline values, simvastatin alone and combined with CE reduced LDL cholesterol to a greater extent than CE alone (both P <0.05). CE alone and combined with simvastatin raised HDL cholesterol and lowered lipoprotein(a) to a greater extent than simvastatin alone (all P <0.05). Flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery (by ultrasonography) improved (all P <0.001 versus baseline values) on CE (4.0±2.6% to 10.2±3.9%), simvastatin (4.3±2.4% to 10.0±3.9%), and CE combined with simvastatin (4.6±2.0% to 9.8±2.6%), but similarly among therapies ( P =0.507 by ANOVA). None of the therapies improved the dilator response to nitroglycerin (all P ≥0.184). Only therapies including CE lowered levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 and the cell adhesion molecule E-selectin (all P <0.05 versus simvastatin). Conclusions —Although estrogen and statin therapies have differing effects on lipoprotein levels, specific improvement in endothelium-dependent vasodilator responsiveness is similar. However, only therapies including estrogen improved markers of fibrinolysis and vascular inflammation. Thus, estrogen therapy appears to have unique properties that may benefit the vasculature of hypercholesterolemic postmenopausal women, even if they are already on cholesterol-lowering therapy.
A new analysis and additional measurements of the millimeter and submillimeter spectrum of methanol

Abstract Over 100 new spectral lines of gas-phase methanol in the millimeter and submillimeter region (viz. 150–1000 GHz) corresponding to rotational transitions in the two lowest torsional states have been measured and assigned. Some of these lines have been combined with spectral lines measured by previous investigators below 1000 GHz into a global data set consisting of 470 lines involving transitions with J ≤ 8 and vt (torsional quantum number) ≤ 2, and then analyzed via a nonlinear least-squares procedure. The analysis involves supplementing the standard IAM Hamiltonian with a number of new distortion and “interaction” constants. Direct diagonalization has been employed in preference to an earlier perturbation scheme. The quality of the least-squares fit compares favorably with the previous quantum mechanical approach.
Faceting in bond-oriented systems with icosahedral and decagonal symmetry.

The recent discoveries of large facets in Al-Li-Cu and other icosahedral quasicrystals, as well as the observation of spatial disorder in these systems, show that disordered systems with long-range bond-orientational order can have growth facets. A fundamental question which naturally arises is whether such systems have equilibrium facets. In this paper, we study the conditions under which a perfect bond-oriented system can facet at T=0. The T=0 equilibrium shapes of bond-oriented systems with icosahedral and decagonal bond-orientational order are discussed. An explicit example is presented to show that disordered systems can have equilibrium facets at T=0. We also give detailed derivation of the surface energy of quasicrystals.
The Fibroblast Growth Factor Pathway and Its Role in the Pathogenesis of Lung Disease

The fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling pathway is integral to the pathogenesis of many airway diseases and in the growth and development of the normal lung. The FGF pathway has a role in key regulatory pathways of fibrosis, and provides a number of potential therapeutic targets for future research.
Myeloperoxidase-Mediated Platelet Release Reaction

The ability of the neutrophil myeloperoxidase-hydrogen peroxide-halide system to induce the release of human platelet constituents was examined. Both lytic and nonlytic effects on platelets were assessed by comparison of the simultaneously measured release of a dense-granule marker, [(3)H]serotonin, and a cytoplasmic marker, [(14)C]adenine. Incubation of platelets with H(2)O(2) alone (20 muM H(2)O(2) for 10 min) resulted in a small, although significant, release of both serotonin and adenine, suggesting some platelet lysis. Substantial release of these markers was observed only with increased H(2)O(2) concentrations (>0.1 mM) or prolonged incubation (1-2 h). Serotonin release by H(2)O(2) was markedly enhanced by the addition of myeloperoxidase and a halide. Under these conditions, there was a predominance of release of serotonin (50%) vs. adenine (13%), suggesting, in part, a nonlytic mechanism. Serotonin release by the complete peroxidase system was rapid, reaching maximal levels in 2-5 min, and was active at H(2)O(2) concentrations as low as 10 muM. It was blocked by agents which inhibit peroxidase (azide, cyanide), degrade H(2)O(2) (catalase), chelate Mg(2+) (EDTA, but not EGTA), or inhibit platelet metabolic activity (dinitrophenol, deoxyglucose).These results suggest that the myeloperoxidase system initiates the release of platelet constituents primarily by a nonlytic process analogous to the platelet release reaction. Because components of the peroxidase system (myeloperoxidase, H(2)O(2)) are secreted by activated neutrophils, the reactions described here may have implications for neutrophilplatelet interaction in sites of thrombus formation.
Ensuring input data integrity in a high-volume environment

The cost of errors in entered data can be significant in a company's data entry operation. Currently available program-controlled data entry devices and systems afford the user an opportunity to detect the error, but they generally cost more, and the error detection may also impact throughput.
Effects of Moisture Exposure on the Mechanical Behavior of Polymer Encapsulants in Microelectronic Packaging

Polymer encapsulants exhibit evolving properties that change significantly with environmental exposures such as moisture uptake, isothermal aging and thermal cycling. In this study, the effects of moisture adsorption on the stress-strain behavior of a polymer encapsulant were evaluated experimentally. The uniaxial test specimens were exposed in an adjustable thermal and humidity chamber to combined hygrothermal exposures at 85 °C/85% RH for various durations. After moisture preconditioning, a microscale tension-torsion testing machine was used to evaluate the complete stress-strain behavior of the material at several temperatures. It was found that moisture exposure caused plasticization and strongly reduced the mechanical properties of the encapsulant including the initial elastic modulus and ultimate tensile stress. Reversibility tests were also conducted to evaluate whether the degradations in the mechanical properties were recoverable. Upon fully redrying, the polymer was found to recover most but not all of its original mechanical properties. As revealed by FTIR, some of the adsorbed water had been hydrolyzed in the organic structure of the epoxy-based adhesive, causing permanent changes to the mechanical behavior.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Stochastic Algorithms, Symmetric Markov Perfect Equilibrium, and the ‘curse’ of Dimensionality

This paper introduces a stochastic algorithm for computing symmetric Markov perfect equilibria. The algorithm computes equilibrium policy and value functions, and generates a transition kernel for the (stochastic) evolution of the state of the system. It has two features that together imply that it need not be subject to the curse of dimensionality. First, the integral that determines continuation values is never calculated; rather it is approximated by a simple average of returns from past outcomes of the algorithm, an approximation whose computational burden is not tied to the dimension of the state space. Second, iterations of the algorithm update value and policy functions at a single (rather than at all possible) points in the state space. Random draws from a distribution set by the updated policies determine the location of the next iteration's updates. This selection only repeatedly hits the recurrent class of points, a subset whose cardinality is not directly tied to that of the state space. Numerical results for industrial organization problems show that our algorithm can increase speed and decrease memory requirements by several orders of magnitude.
Supporting Family-Centered Practice through Supervision: An Evaluation of Strengths-Based Supervision:

Strengths-based supervision (SBS) is a model of clinical supervision that was developed to support effective implementation of family-centered practice in public child welfare. An evaluation was co...
Concurrent timing based and routability driven depopulation technique for FPGA packing

In FPGA CAD flow, routability driven algorithms have been introduced to improve feasibility of mapping designs onto the underlying architecture; timing and power driven algorithms have been introduced to meet design specifications. A number of techniques have been proposed to tackle routability, timing or power objectives independently during clustering stage. However, there is minimal work that targets multiple optimization goals. In this paper, we evaluate a clustering technique that targets routability and timing goals simultaneously. We combine the timing-driven T-VPack algorithm with a routability-driven non-uniform depopulation scheme (T-RDPack). Our technique keeps clusters on the critical path fully populated, while depopulating other clusters in the design. This approach has been implemented into the versatile place and route (VPR) toolset. We show that, compared to T-VPack, channel width reductions of 11.5%, 19.1%, 24.7% are achieved while incurring an area overhead of 0.6%, 3.1%, 9.1% respectively with negligible increase in critical path delay, exceeding the performance of T-RPack.
GELATION PROPERTIES OF CHICKEN MYOFIBRILS TREATED WITH CALCIUM AND MAGNESIUM CHLORIDES1

Chicken myofibril gels were formed at pH 6.0 and ionic strength of 0.6 in the presence of calcium chloride (CaCl2) and magnesium chloride (MgCl2). The extractability of salt-soluble protein (SSP) and myofibril gel strength of leg muscle were increased (P 0.05) by CaCl2. Moisture loss of breast and leg myofibril gels was at a minimum at less than 5 mM CaCl2 or MgCl2 but increased at greater concentrations of CaCl2 or MgCl2. The divalent cations affected chicken myofibril gelation by changing the extraction and protein-protein interaction of SSP.
Single system ectopic ureter to rectum subtending solitary kidney and bladder agenesis in newborn male

We report a case of a single system solitary ectopic ureter to the rectum with bladder agenesis in a viable newborn male. Only 2 cases of ectopic ureter to the rectum and 18 cases of bladder agenesis have been reported in viable newborns. To our knowledge, this case constitutes the first reported combination of these defects in a living neonate. Associated anomalies also included renal dysplasia, anal stenosis, and urethral-rectal fistula. Nephrectomy is often necessary to prevent infection or hypertension.
Granular cell astrocytoma.

Abstract Granular cell astrocytoma (GCA) is a rare type of malignant brain tumor with distinct morphologic features and aggressive clinical behavior. Almost all GCAs occur in the cerebral hemispheres. It is characterized by a prominent component of bland-looking granular cells. The tumor cells are usually positive for glial fibrillary acidic protein, S100, CD68, and epithelial membrane antigen. The most important differential diagnoses include a number of reactive lesions such as cerebral infarction, multiple sclerosis, and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Electron microscopic study reveals that the granules of GCA correspond to an increased number of intracytoplasmic lysosomes. The histogenesis of GCA is still unclear, but most people believe it originates from astrocytes. Loss of 9p and 10q were identified in almost all cases of GCA, but they are not specific for this tumor. Surgical excision plus postoperative chemotherapy or radiotherapy is the choice for most patients with GCA.
Bis[2-(4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)phenolato-κ2N3,O]zinc(II) methanol solvate

The title complex, [Zn(C18H18N4O2)]·CH3OH, comprises a ZnII ion tetra­hedrally coordinated by two bidentate 2-(4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)phenolate ligands with average distances of Zn—N = 1.942 (3) A and Zn—O = 1.942 (2) A.
New developments in systems for transmission and distribution substation control and protection

Abstract This paper contains the edited records of four presentations on Transmission and Distribution Substation Automation. These presentations were made at the 1980 Summer Power Meeting of the Power Engineering Society under the sponsorhip of the Application of New Technologies Working Group of the Automatic and Supervisory Systems Subcommittee of the PES Substations Committee. The organization and structure of transmission and distribution control and protection systems utilizing computer based technology are described in detail. The perspective of utility companies concerning the need and practicality of such systems is described. The problem of electromagnetic interference in transmission substations is also presented.
Review: back exercise interventions prevent self-reported episodes of back problems in adults but ergonomic education does not.

Which interventions prevent back problems in adults? Included studies evaluated any intervention for preventing episodes of back problems (back symptoms or limited activity because of back pain or sciatica) in people 18–65 years of age. Studies that reported changes in anatomy or physiology or knowledge outcomes, or evaluated patient treatment to reduce disability were excluded. Outcomes included self-reported back problems. Medline and EMBASE/Excerpta Medica (to May 2007), Cochrane Back Review Group Specialised Trial Registry (to Aug 2008), and reference lists were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or other controlled trials (OCTs). 17 high-quality RCTs and 3 OCTs met the selection criteria. Meta-analysis …
Angiotensin II induces insulin resistance independent of changes in interstitial insulin.

We set out to examine whether angiotensin-driven hypertension can alter insulin action and whether these changes are reflected as changes in interstitial insulin (the signal to which insulin-sensit...
Use of prognostics in risk-based decision making for BGAs under shock and vibration loads

Leading indicators of failure have been developed based on high-frequency characteristics, and system-transfer function derived from resistance spectroscopy measurements during shock and vibration. The technique is intended for condition monitoring in high reliability applications where the knowledge of impending failure is critical and the risks in terms of loss-of-functionality are too high to bear. Previously, resistance spectroscopy measurements [Constable 1992, Lizzul 1994, Prassana 1995] have been used during thermal cycling tests to monitor damage progression due to thermo-mechanical stresses. The development of resistance spectroscopy based damage pre-cursors for prognostication under shock and vibration is new. In this paper, the high-frequency characteristics, and system transfer function based on resistance spectroscopy measurements have been correlated with the damage progression in electronics during shock and vibration. Packages being examined include ceramic area-array packages. Second level interconnect technologies examined include copper-reinforced solder column, SAC305 solder ball, and 90Pb10Sn high-lead solder ball. Assemblies have been subjected to 1500g, 0.5 ms pulse [JESD-B2111]. Continuity has been monitored in-situ during the shock test for identification of part-failure. Resistance spectroscopy based damage pre-cursors have been correlated with the optically measured transient strain based feature vectors. High speed cameras have been used to capture the transient strain histories during shock-impact. Statistical pattern recognition techniques have been used to identify damage initiation and progression and determine the statistical significance in variance between healthy and damaged assemblies. Models for healthy and damaged packages have been developed based on package characteristics. Data presented shows that high-frequency characteristics and system-transfer characteristics based on resistance spectroscopy measurements can be used for condition-monitoring, damage initiation and progression in electronic systems. A positive prognostic distance has been demonstrated for each of the interconnect technologies tested.
An improved recombination-based in vivo expression technology-like reporter system reveals differential cyaA gene activation in Bordetella species.

ABSTRACT Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella bronchiseptica rely on the global two-component regulatory system BvgAS to control expression of distinct phenotypic phases. In the Bvg− phase, expression of vrg genes, including those required for motility in B. bronchiseptica, is activated and genes encoding virulence factors are not expressed. Conversely, in the Bvg+ phase, genes encoding virulence factors are highly expressed while genes necessary for motility are repressed. Although several genetic analyses have demonstrated the importance of the Bvg+ phase during respiratory infection, Bvg-regulated gene activation in B. bronchiseptica has not been investigated in vivo. To address this, we developed a plasmid, pGFLIP, that encodes a sensitive Flp recombinase-based fluorescent reporter system able to document gene activation both in vitro and in vivo. Using pGFLIP, we demonstrated that cyaA, considered to be a “late” Bvg+ phase gene, is activated substantially earlier in B. bronchiseptica than B. pertussis following a switch from Bvg− to Bvg+ phase conditions. We show that the altered activation of cyaA is not due to differences in the cyaA promoter or in the bvgAS alleles of B. bronchiseptica compared to B. pertussis, but appears to be species specific. Finally, we used pGFLIP to show that flaA remains repressed during infection, confirming that B. bronchiseptica does not modulate to the Bvg− phase in vivo.
Herpes simplex virus type 1 capsid protein, VP21, originates within the UL26 open reading frame

The goal of experiments reported here was to identify the genes that encode capsid proteins VP21 and VP24 of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Capsids were isolated from infected cells and the proteins were separated by SDS-PAGE. N-terminal amino acid sequence analysis of partial CNBr digestion products, and of intact VP21, showed that it is encoded within the UL26 open reading frame (ORF) of HSV-1 beginning with codon 248 and probably extending to the end of the ORF (codon 635). Similar analysis of digestion products confirmed that VP24 is specified by codons 1 to 247 at the 5' end of the UL26 ORF. Each of the seven known capsid proteins has now been assigned to an ORF.
Grandparent—Grandchild Ties Reflections on Continuity and Change Across Three Generations

Within the context of social, demographic, and historical change and informed by a life course perspective, this article examines patterns of relating between grandparents and grandchildren within families across and within generations. Using qualitative data from a study of 10 multigenerational families (N = 86), the analysis assesses continuity and change in grandparent—grandchild ties across three generations of adults. Although findings reveal change in social and family circumstances over time, half the families experienced considerable continuity in grandparent—grandchild ties and whether close or distant, were characterized by distinct grand cultures. In the remaining families, different configurations of individual, family-related, and social factors led to intra- and intergenerational variations. Divorce and remarriage influenced grandparent—grandchild relationships in most families, yielding highly variable outcomes. Ultimately, the study families' experiences demonstrate how social, historical,...
Bax and Bak function as the outer membrane component of the mitochondrial permeability pore in regulating necrotic cell death in mice

In all multicellular plants and animals, cells are continuously dying and being replaced. There are a number of different types of cell death, but two of the best studied are apoptosis and necrosis. Apoptosis, sometimes referred to as ‘cell suicide’, is a form of programmed cell death that is generally beneficial to the organism. Necrosis, however, occurs whenever cells are damaged—for example, due to a lack of oxygen—and can trigger harmful inflammation in surrounding tissue. Although the processes leading up to apoptosis and necrosis are very different, they both involve regulated changes in mitochondria—the organelles that supply cells with chemical energy. Mitochondria have a distinctive appearance, being enclosed by two membranes, the innermost of which is highly folded. During apoptosis, large pores form in the outer membranes of mitochondria. These pores are generated by two proteins—Bax and Bak—and they enable the mitochondrion to release proteins that activate processes involved in apoptosis. Pores also form in the mitochondrial membrane during necrosis. However, these mitochondrial permeability transition pores (MPTPs) occur simultaneously in both the inner and outer membranes and are thought to lead to swelling and rupture of mitochondria. Now, Karch et al. have shown that Bax and Bak are also involved in the formation of these permeability pores that underlie necrosis. When mouse cells that had been genetically modified to lack Bak and Bax were grown in cell culture, they were found to be resistant to substances that normally induce necrosis. Instead, their mitochondria continued to function normally, suggesting that MPTPs cannot form in the absence of Bak and Bax. Karch et al. then generated mice with heart cells that lack Bax and Bak, and deprived their hearts of oxygen to simulate a heart attack. Compared to normal mice, the genetically modified animals experienced less damage to their heart muscle, suggesting that the absence of Bax and Bak prevents cell death due to necrosis. If Bax and Bak are involved in both apoptosis and necrosis, inhibiting them could be a powerful therapeutic approach for preventing all forms of cell death during heart attacks or in certain degenerative diseases.
Capital Spaces, the Multiple Complex Spaces of a Global City

Matthew Carmona & Filipa Wunderlich, Abingdon, Routledge, 2012, 305 pp., ISBN 978-0-4155-2709-5 Capital Spaces is a monumental research study of public space, with a focus on the public square. It ...
Separation of early and late responses of adipose tissue to growth hormone.

GH produces a variety of effects in adipose tissue obtained from hypophysectomized rats. A specific antiserum to rat GH produced in a rhesus monkey was used as a tool to study the relationship of these responses to each other. In all, five different metabolic responses produced by adding 1 jug/ml rat GH to segments of epididymal fat obtained from hypophysectomized rats were studied. Three of these, stimulation of [U-14C]glucose oxidation to 114CO2, stimulation of L-[l-14C]leucine oxidation to 14CO2, and inhibition of epinephrine-induced lipolysis, are insulin-like. They begin after lag periods of about 25, 35, and 15 min, respectively, and disappear by about 180 min. The addition of antiserum simultaneously with the hormone or within the first 10 min thereafter blocked all three responses. When added more than 10–15 min after GH the antiserum failed to block insulin-like responses measured 30–60 min later, even if the response was prolonged into the fourth hour by adding actinomycin D along with GH to blo...
Vertebral Derotation in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

The treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis has evolved substantially over the years. Early designs, such as the Harrington rod, corrected coronal deformity but failed to account for normal sagittal alignment. Cotrel-Dubousset instrumentation allowed for better control of sagittal contours such as thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis while maintaining coronal deformity correction. However, rotational control of scoliosis remained poor. Modern instrumentation systems with pedicle screws allow for the first time the possibility of true rotational correction, but this requires more than simple rod derotation maneuvers. Instead, a method of directly applying rotational force to a screw that has 3-column purchase is required in order to effect a derotation of individual vertebra. This is accomplished through the advent of direct vertebral rotation devices. We describe the technique to use these devices to perform rotational correction of scoliotic deformities later in the text.
The firm's leverage-cash flow relationship

Abstract Two separate strands of the literature on capital structure under asymmetric information consider the relationship between a firm's financial leverage and cash flow. Signalling theory suggests a positive relationship, while pecking order behavior implies a negative relationship. These contrasting theoretical implications appear contradictory. However, both are supported in different bodies of empirical literature. Leverage-changing event studies tend to support a positive relationship while cross-sectional studies typically reveal a negative relationship. This paper proposes that the appropriate pecking order relationship is contemporaneous — between current leverage and current cash flow, while the relevant signalling relationship is intertemporal-between current leverage and future cash flow. A dynamic simultaneous equations model is built which allows the firm's leverage, cash flow, and risk to interact jointly in the same period, as well as across time. Empirical results reveal that, in the same time period, leverage and cash flow tend to be negatively related, while across time leverage is positively related to future cash flow. Thus the apparent contradictions in the theoretical and empirical literature may be reconciled by considering both the contemporaneous and dynamic aspects of the firm's leverage/cash flow relationship.
Navigating the Evolving Paradigms in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Myeloproliferative Disorders

The diagnosis and management of the BCR-ABL-negative myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs) of polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF) are at an explosive crossroads of scientific investigation and evolving paradigms since the discovery of the tyrosine kinase-activating JAK2V617F mutation in 2005. Additional discovery of relevant molecular lesions (JAK2 exon 12 mutations and c-MplW515L/K) have only further enriched our understanding of MPD pathogenesis. The improved diagnostic certainty these molecular markers provide have resulted in the modification, and simplification, of the World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic algorithms for MPDs. Despite these scientific advances, however, the initial management of MPDs continues to rely upon a risk-based strategy to minimize the risk of vascular events with control of erythrocytosis, targeted antiplatelet therapy, and risk-based myelosuppressive therapy. No current medical therapy has altered the natural trend of the MPDs to lead to overt severe myelofibrosis or acute leukemia. Investigations into targeted therapies for MPDs are proceeding at a brisk pace with agents aimed at immunomodulation, decreasing marrow stromal reaction to the aberrant clone, DNA hypomethylation, or the inhibition of tyrosine kinases. Specific inhibition of JAK2 itself appears promising by in vitro investigations, and clinical trials with multiple agents are planned to commence enrollment in 2007. The potential impact of JAK2 inhibitors on the manifestations of the MPDs is unclear, but is awaited with great interest.
The origins of the similarities between late transition metals and early transition metal monocarbides

Full potential electronic structure calculations have been conducted on transition metal mono-carbides of the NaCl and WC structure. These calculations reveal that carbon p-orbitals hybridize strongly with some, though not all, of the metal d-orbitals. These strongly hybridized orbitals give rise to covalent bonds, with an occupied region which is p-d bonding, within the unit cell, separated by an energy gap from an unoccupied region which is p-d antibonding within the unit cell. The remaining unhybridized metal orbitals fill this gap, forming a band that can best be described as metallic in character. The same type of metallic band is seen to be coincident with the Fermi energy of the Group 8–10 transition metals. As a result, for the correct number of pd electrons, the Fermi energy of the monocarbides passes through a region of metallic bonding, giving rise to metallic properties and catalytic behavior similar to the Group 8–10 metals.
Optical decoherence studies of yttrium oxyorthosilicate Y 2 SiO 5 codoped with Er 3 + and Eu 3 + for optical signal processing and quantum information applications at 1.5 microns

We report detailed studies of the optical decoherence and spectroscopic properties of the 1536-nm optical transition of the bandwidth-engineered material 0.02$%$Er:1$%$Eu:Y${}_{2}$SiO${}_{5}$. This work is motivated by the need for comprehensive understanding of new resonant optical materials for spatial-spectral holography and quantum information applications. The dependence of optical decoherence on excitation frequency, applied magnetic field strength and orientation, crystal temperature, measurement time scale, and optical excitation density was studied using stimulated photon echo spectroscopy and time-resolved spectral hole-burning techniques. The effects of weak disorder generated by the introduction of Eu${}^{3+}$ ions into the lattice was probed by comparing measurements across the static disorder-induced distribution of transition frequencies as well as by comparing with measurements on 0.02$%$Er:Y${}_{2}$SiO${}_{5}$. The results reveal that the coherence properties of Er:Y${}_{2}$SiO${}_{5}$ are preserved in the disordered system; moreover, the increased inhomogeneity produced by the disorder acts to suppress optical decoherence by inhibiting the electronic spin diffusion process, improving material properties for low magnetic field strengths and at increased temperatures desirable for practical applications.
Effect of Cooling Rates on Phase Separation in 0.5Li2MnO3·0.5LiCoO2 Electrode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries

The results of a detailed structural investigation on the influence of cooling rates in the synthesis of lithium- and manganese-rich 0.5Li2MnO3·0.5LiCoO2 composite electrode materials, which are of interest for Li-ion battery applications, are presented. It is shown that a low-temperature, intermediate firing step, often employed in cathode synthesis, yields a minor secondary component representing a polydisperse distribution of lattice parameters, not found in the absence of low-temperature treatments. However, regardless of the heating and cooling conditions employed, all samples present two distinctly different local environments as evidenced by X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (XAFS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) data show discrete domain structures that are consistent with the XAFS and NMR findings. Furthermore, high resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction (HR-XRD), as well as the XAFS and NMR data show no discernible differences be...
Calculations of Zn II 3d94s5s and Ag I 4d95s6s, and some new levels in these spectra

Results of intermediate-coupling calculations are given for Zn ii 3d94s5s and Ag i 4d95s6s. A [(4d9)Ji, (5s6s)Jii]J coupling scheme is appropriate for the latter. New 3d94s(3D)5s2D2½ and 3d94s(1D)5s2D2½ levels were found in Zn ii, and a few other additions and revisions are given for the analysis. The combinations of the new levels 3d9(2D)4s4p(3P°) 4F41/2° in Zn ii and 4d9(2D)5s5p(3P°) 2F21/2° in Ag i are also listed.
A New Amanita from Arkansas

Pileus 10-15 cm. broad, occasionally considerably larger, at first conical or hemispherical, later convex to expanded, very slight if any viscidity, orange-buff to baryta-yellow (Ridgway), usually lemon-yellow at the margin and deeper yellow above, never red, or orange-red, older or dried specimens are mostly tan colored with faint tinges of yellow, glabrous, rarely with 1 or more large whitish patches, remnants of the universal veil, margin conspicuously striate, the striations extending 2-4 cm. from margin. Gills adnexed by a line, the line usually extending 1 or 2 cm. down the stem, yellow at first, particularly on the edges and near the flesh, gradually fading to creamy white or whitish, 1-1.5 cm. broad at the widest point, this being somewhat closer to the margin than to the apex. Stem 10-15 cm. long, 1.5-3.0 cm. thick, usually stout, slightly thicker in the region of the volva, glabrous below and usually with irregular patches or fibrils on the upper half, stuffed with soft, cottony material at first, then hollow, yellow, the fibrils becoming darker yellow when handled. Annulus superior, attached about 1 cm. below the top of the stem, yellow, large, up to 4 cm. long, pendant, merabranous. Volva white, firm, very thick below, often as much as 1 cm., thinner toward the entire margin, consisting usually of the whole of the universal veil, quite fleshy even at the margin (see Plate 9), forming a fair sized cup, the ample free margin of which is always free from the stem when young and usually so at maturity, mostly 3-6 cm. long (1 specimen found with a volva 11 cm. long, Plate 9). Spores broadly ellipsoid or ovoid,
Postmenopausal hormone therapy and breast cancer: a clinician's message for patients.

The Women’s Health Initiative agrees with some but not all case-control and cohort studies that current use of postmenopausal estrogen-progestin therapy is associated with a small increase in the risk of breast cancer. It is not known whether this is because of new tumor growth or an effect of hormonal therapy on preexisting tumors. Many studies indicate that women who develop breast cancer while using postmenopausal hormone therapy have a reduced risk of dying from breast cancer; this is consistent with an effect on preexisting tumors so that tumors appear at a less virulent and aggressive stage.
CALCULATION FOR AXIAL TEMPERATURE DROP ON BURIED CRUDE PIPELINE WITH NUMERICAL VALUE INTEGRAL METHOD

The calculation method of critical temperature was discussed when the flow state of oil was changed on buried crude pipeline.The change of flow state and flow model judged by critical temperature on buried crude pipeline was put forward.On the basic of the change physic parameters of oil and general heat transmission factor with temperature and friction generating heat.The mathematical model was established on axial temperature drop when buried crude pipeline was running.Calculation method of mathematical model was studied.The process of calculating axial temperature drop mathematical model was presented when buried crude pipeline was running.The result was close to fact better,because the change of physic parameter of oil and general heat transmission factor with temperature is considered in the model.Key wards: crude pipeline;critical temperature;flow state;axial temperature drop
Additive Manufacturing of Dense Ceramic Parts via Direct Ink Writing of Aqueous Alumina Suspensions

Additive manufacturing of near-net-shaped dense ceramic components has been established via room-temperature direct writing of highly loaded aqueous alumina suspensions in a layer-by-layer fashion. The effect of alumina solid loading on rheology, specimen uniformity, density, microstructure, and mechanical properties was studied. All suspensions contained a polymer binder (~5 vol.%), dispersant, and 51–58 vol.% alumina powder. Rheological measurements indicated all suspensions to be yield-pseuodoplastic, and both yield stress and viscosity were found to increase with increasing alumina solid loading. Shear rates ranging from 19.5 to 24.2/s, corresponding to viscosities of 9.8 to 17.2 Pa·s, for the 53–56 vol.% alumina suspensions were found to produce the best results for the 1.25-mm tip employed during writing. All parts were sintered to >98% of true density, with grain sizes ranging from 3.2 to 3.7 μm. The average flexure strength, which ranged from 134 to 157 MPa, was not influenced by the alumina solid loading.
Lateral Carrier Confinement for Ultralow Threshold Quantum Dot Lasers

Semiconductor laser diodes have continually shrunk in size, a trend driven by the desire for low threshold current, high modulation speed, and lateral mode control. Oxide-defined apertures have demonstrated improved performance by reducing optical losses and current spreading in VCSELs, but carrier losses due to lateral diffusion in the active layer remain uncontrolled.
What’s New in Musculoskeletal Infection: Update on Biofilms

Infections involving orthopaedic surgical implants present unique challenges when compared with infections that do not involve implants. Microorganisms have a high affinity for adhering to foreign materials commonly used in orthopaedics, including cobalt-chromium, titanium, polyethylene, and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement. When bacteria adhere to these surfaces, they can form a complex structure surrounded by a self-generated extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix formed by multiplex agents of biopolymers consisting of proteins, polysaccharides, lipids, nucleic acids, and humic substances1-3. The term “biofilm” is commonly used to describe this network of microorganisms, a term popularized by Dr. J. William Costerton et al. in 19784. Biofilms are formed by a confluence of bacteria commonly encountered in orthopaedic infections. Up to 65% of bacterial infections are caused by biofilm-producing organisms5. Staphylococci, specifically Staphylococcus aureus ( S. aureus ) and Staphylococcus epidermidis ( S. epidermidis ), are the most common biofilm-forming bacteria found in orthopaedics, and, when combined with Pseudomonas aeruginosa ( P. aeruginosa ), they represent nearly 75% of biofilm infections observed in medical devices6. Propionibacterium acnes ( P. acnes ), an organism commonly found in shoulder infections, has also been shown to form biofilm. Biofilms can be composed of a single organism or can be polymicrobial; polymicrobial biofilms are more difficult to eradicate7. Once bacteria adhere to the surface of implants, they may replicate and may form a complex network of microorganisms that communicate with one another via cell-to-cell signaling that facilitates the participation of bacteria in quorum sensing7. Quorum sensing serves as an elementary endocrine system whereby bacteria sense the local cell population density and regulate gene expression by releasing extracellular molecules to facilitate synchronized changes in the bacteria within the biofilm. These transcriptional changes can occur with the exchange of plasmids between bacteria, which can confer genes …
Transforaminal Endoscopic Surgery for Adjacent Segment Disease After Lumbar Fusion

Objective The natural history of degenerative disease after instrumented lumbar fusion can result in symptomatic radiculopathy at the adjacent segment. Here we describe our experience with transforaminal endoscopic decompression for the treatment of adjacent segment radiculopathy. Methods A technique for the transforaminal endoscopic treatment of lumbar radiculopathy adjacent to instrumented lumbar fusions is presented. Prospectively, we followed a series of 9 consecutive patients operated on with lumbar radiculopathy above (5) or below (4) their instrumented fusion. Preoperative and postoperative clinical data with 2-year follow-up are presented. Results A consecutive series of 9 patients who underwent transforaminal endoscopic treatment for lumbar radiculopathy adjacent to an instrumented spinal fusion between 2012 and 2014 is presented. Three patients required revision to fusion at 2, 13, and 19 months postoperatively. The mean visual analogue scale score for radicular pain improved from an average pain score before surgery of 8.4 to 1.3 1 year after surgery and the mean visual analogue scale for back pain improved from an average pain score before surgery of 8.0 to 4.7 1 year after surgery (excluding the 1 patient with 2month postoperative failure). Conclusions Transforaminal endoscopic surgical access to adjacent level disease pathology may be a unique approach to the treatment of adjacent segment disease because it allows for neural decompression of disc and foraminal pathology without requiring significant destabilizing bone removal. However, the 2-year failure rate presented here is 33%, which indicates that the benefit of this technique may ultimately be temporary.
Information and Knowledge assisted analysis and Visualization of large-scale data

The ever-increasing sizes of data produced from a variety of scientific studies post a formidable challenge for the subsequent data analysis and visualization tasks. While steady advances in graphics hardware enable faster rendering, achieving interactive visualization of large data must also rely on effective data filtering and organization. In many cases, the best interactivity can only be obtained by taking into account the intrinsic properties of the data and domain knowledge to better reduce and organize the data for visualization. As a result, in recent years, we have seen increasing research and development efforts into the area of information and knowledge assisted visualization (IKV). In this paper, we survey research in IKV of scientific data and also identify a few directions for further work in this emerging area.
The Relationship between Inequality and Entrepreneurship: A Conceptual Model and Preliminary Tests

Inequality has recently been a topic of great social, political, and academic interest. We explore the entrepreneurial microfoundations of inequality, in terms of income and of quality of life. Spe...
Implementation of an evidence-based non-invasive respiratory support (NIRS) bundle in the NICU to decrease nasal injury complications

Abstract Background Nasal skin breakdown is a common complication of non-invasive respiratory support (NIRS) therapy. The objective of this quality improvement project was to improve assessments and standardize care to infants receiving NIRS to reduce iatrogenic nasal injury complications. Methods Nursing staff NIRS knowledge and action were assessed using a self-report survey created for the project. A NIRS bundle was implemented to standardized care provided to all infants receiving NIRS. Infant chart reviews were conducted to determine incidence and severity of nasal injury before and after NIRS bundle implementation. Results Twenty-six nurses completed pre and post survey assessments. Combined NIRS care scores improved from an average of 16.81 (SD = 1.569) to 17.57 (SD = 1.287, p = 0.058). NIRS knowledge scores slightly improved from an average of 6.76 (SD = 2.016) to 6.88 (SD = 1.495, p = 0.833). The incidence of nasal injuries from NIRS use was reduced by 15.8% (34.7% compared to 18.9%; p = 0.086). Conclusion Improving staff NIRS knowledge and standardizing NIRS care is associated with decreased incidence of nasal injury. Implementing feasible evidence-based interventions impact neonatal care by decreasing unintended treatment complications and increasing NIRS success.
A preliminary study of the origins of early adolescents' gratitude differences

Abstract Extant research has focused on the consequences of individual differences in gratitude, especially among adults. We focused on addressing the antecedents of gratitude differences among early adolescents, which may be a critical time in gratitude development (Froh, Fan et al., 2011). Specifically, we examined the relations among personality variables (i.e., extraversion and neuroticism), social support (i.e., parents, teachers, peers), stressful life events, and gratitude in a sample of 647 middle school students from four middle schools in a Southeastern US state. Controlling for gender, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity, hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed statistically significant relations for the personality variables of extraversion and neuroticism. Furthermore, after controlling for demographic and personality variables, students' perceptions of social support contributed significance incremental variance to early adolescents' gratitude scores, with both parent and teacher support accounting for unique variance. Finally, stressful life events added significant variance after controlling for the demographic, personality and social support variables. Contrary to expectations, neither students' levels of social support nor neuroticism scores moderated the association between stressful events and gratitude. The results suggest implications for the development of more sophisticated theories of the antecedents of gratitude as well as the design of more comprehensive interventions.
Next generation computing systems with heterogeneous packaging integration

IBM Research and Micro-System Technology and Solutions Team are enabling next generation computing systems with heterogeneous packaging integration that support both large size / high performance systems and also support miniaturized / low power mobile wireless systems / sensors.
Cross-Group Flouting: Boundary Spanning To Circumvent Formal Processes

Counter to the dominant focus of groups’ research on the positive aspects of boundary spanning, this qualitative study describes how initiation of informal interactions across group interfaces - a ...