cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Project Update: Evaluating the Community Health Legacy of WWI Chemical Weapons Testing

The Spring Valley community of Washington, District of Columbia, was built on the site of a World War I chemical weapons lab where testing activities had distributed arsenic to surface soil and waste disposal had resulted in localized subsurface contamination. In previous work, findings were suggestive of potential site-related health issues, although no evidence of cancer clustering was found. In follow-up, we updated the community health assessment and explored time trends for several arsenic-related cancers. Health indicators continue to be very good in Spring Valley. For all major causes of mortality, Spring Valley rates were lower than United States (US) rates with most substantially lower (20-80 %); rates for heart diseases, Alzheimer's, and essential hypertension and related kidney disease were only slightly lower than US rates (3-8 %). Incidence and mortality rates for the selected cancers in the Spring Valley area were lower than US rates. Small non-statistically significant increasing time trends were observed in Spring Valley for incidence of two arsenic-related cancers: bladder and lung and bronchus. A moderate statistically significant increasing rate trend was observed for lung and bronchus cancer mortality in Spring Valley (p < 0.01). Lung and bronchus cancer mortality rates were also increasing in the Chevy Chase community, the local comparison area closely matched to Spring Valley on important demographic variables, suggesting that the observed increases may not be site-related. A full profile of common cancer site rates and trends for both study areas was suggested to better understand the rate trend findings but no epidemiological study was recommended.
Cystic adventitial disease of the popliteal artery: Is there a consensus in management?

Cystic adventitial disease (CAD) is a well described disease entity that commonly affects the popliteal artery, presenting as a rare cause of non-atherosclerotic claudication. The traditional surgical approaches are cyst resection and bypass, or cyst evacuation or aspiration. We report the case of a 58-year-old female with CAD of the popliteal artery treated successfully with cyst resection and bypass using an autologous graft. We reviewed the literature over the last 25 years on management and outcomes of CAD of the popliteal artery. We identified a total of 123 cases; most cases were treated using a traditional repair, while 3 cases used an endovascular approach. The overall success rate using bypass was 93.3%, compared to 85% in the evacuation/aspiration cohort. All cases treated endovascularly resulted in failure. While no consensus exists regarding the preferred modality to treat CAD, we believe that resection of the cyst and bypass affords the best outcomes.
Cleaning of AlN and GaN surfaces

Successful ex situ and in situ cleaning procedures for AlN and GaN surfaces have been investigated and achieved. Exposure to HF and HCl solutions produced the lowest coverages of oxygen on AlN and GaN surfaces, respectively. However, significant amounts of residual F and Cl were detected. These halogens tie up dangling bonds at the nitride surfaces hindering reoxidation. The desorption of F required temperatures >850 °C. Remote H plasma exposure was effective for removing halogens and hydrocarbons from the surfaces of both nitrides at 450 °C, but was not efficient for oxide removal. Annealing GaN in NH3 at 700–800 °C produced atomically clean as well as stoichiometric GaN surfaces.
A novel loss indication filtering approach for multicast congestion control

A key issue in the design of source-based multicast congestion control schemes is how to aggregate loss indications from multiple receivers into a single rate control decision at the source. Such aggregation entails filtering out a portion of the loss indications received by the source, and then using the remaining for rate adjustments. In this paper, we first propose a set of goals guiding the design of loss indication filters. We then present a novel loss indication filtering approach, the linear proportional response (LPR) approach. Analysis and simulation is used to compare LPR to two well-known approaches - the random listening algorithm (RLA) [Proceedings of ACM SIGCOMM (1998)] and the worst estimate-based tracking (WET) [Proceedings of IEEE Infocom (1999)] approach. Our results indicate that LPR achieves a desirable tradeoff between stability and response, thereby making it more suitable than WET and RLA for deployment in an Internet-like environment.
Volvulus of an appendiceal mucocele: report of a case.

Few cases of volvulus of an appendiceal mucocele have been reported. The mechanism of torsion seems to be similar to that suggested for ovarian or appendegeal torsion, where a solid organ or mass fixed onto a narrow stalk is a precondition. We report the case of a young woman who presented with signs and symptoms of acute appendicitis. Computed tomography showed a cystic mass of fluid consistency in the right lower quadrant. An emergency laparoscopy revealed a 720° torsion of a gangrenous mucocele around the proximal part of the appendix. We performed a laparoscopic appendectomy and she recovered uneventfully. The presentation of volvulus of an appendiceal mucocele can mimic other common conditions. Prompt surgical intervention is essential to prevent gangrene and perforation. The combination of a cystic, right lower quadrant mass, and clinical findings suggestive of acute appendicitis should alert the clinician to include volvulus of an appendiceal mucocele in the differential diagnosis.
Magnetic properties of rare earth‐gallium‐iron glasses

Results of magnetic susceptibility, high‐field magnetization, and Mossbauer effect are reported for several R‐Ga and R‐Ga‐Fe metallic glasses, where R = Pr and Tb. Magnetic ordering temperatures, effective moments, and coercive forces were determined. In certain cases the data indicate that the low temperature states of magnetic order are asperomagnetic or spin‐glass‐like. For (Pr80Ga20)80Fe20, several anomalies were observed including a large coercive field (45 kOe) at 100 K.
Actuation efficiency in piezoelectrically driven linear and nonlinear systems

Standard assumptions about the efficiency of active systems working against a load neglect the electro-mechanical coupling inherent in these systems. This paper contains a derivation for finding the actuation efficiency and work output in electro-mechanically coupled systems working against a load. This general derivation is for fully coupled, non-linear systems working against a generalized load. Three example cases are then shown to demonstrate several key aspects of the general derivation. The first example case is a 1D, linear discrete actuator working against a 1D, linear spring load. This example shows the effects of electro-mechanical coupling on the actuation efficiency. The second example case is of a piezoelectric bender first presented by Lesieutre and Davis in their derivation of the device coupling coefficient. The bender example demonstrates the differences between the device coupling coefficient and actuation efficiency as well as the use of the generalized derivation in mechanically complex problems. The final example presented is a 1D, linear discrete actuator working against a 1D, non-linear load in order to demonstrate the possibility of increasing the work output of a system through the use of non-linear loading functions. Finally, a custom built testing facility measures the work output and actuation efficiency of a discrete actuator working against both linear and non-linear loads. The testing facility was designed for load application with programmable impedances and closed loop testing at frequencies up to 1 kHz. The tests performed on a discrete actuator closely match the expected work outputs and efficiencies predicted by the theory.
Scanning tunneling spectroscopy and density functional calculation of silicon dangling bonds on the Si(100)-2 × 1:H surface

Abstract We studied electronic properties of atomic-scale dangling bond (DB) and DB wires on Si(100)-2 × 1:H surfaces using a ultrahigh vacuum scanning tunneling microscope (UHV-STM). The decay of the near-midgap DB-states induced by an unpaired DB depends on the crystalline orientation of the Si(100) surface. The decay length of the DB-states of an unpaired DB wire can be ~ 2.5 nm along the dimer row direction. The perturbation from an unpaired DB to an adjacent paired DB is also demonstrated. The results are in good agreement with density functional calculations.
Review of E. Preble and J. J. Casey, “Taking Care of Business—The Heroin User's Life on the Street,” International Journal of the Addictions, 4: 1-24 (1969)

(1997). Review of E. Preble and J. J. Casey, “Taking Care of Business—The Heroin User's Life on the Street,” International Journal of the Addictions, 4: 1-24 (1969) Substance Use & Misuse: Vol. 32, No. 2, pp. 195-201.
Gucci versus Old Navy: Interplay of Brand Personality and Regulatory Focus in Advertising Persuasion

The present research examines how brand personality and regulatory focus (promotion vs. prevention) interplay in affecting advertising message persuasiveness. In Experiment 1, the moderating role of brand personality with respect to regulatory focus is tested. The results show that a promotion-framed advertising message is more persuasive for a fictitious exciting brand than is a prevention-framed message, whereas a prevention-framed (vs. promotion-framed) message is more effective for a fictitious competent brand. To replicate Experiment 1 and further test the hypothesis, in Experiment 2, two real brands representing two additional brand personality dimensions (sophistication vs. sincerity) are tested and the influence of individuals' self-construal level is controlled. The findings reveal that individuals exposed to the sophisticated brand show a more positive attitude when the brand message is promotion framed. By contrast, individuals exposed to the sincere brand react more favorably when the brand is presented with a prevention-framed advertising message.
An Examination of the Dietary Intakes of Preschool Children in Military Families

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: To determine nutrient intakes of 3-5 year old children in military families A large body of evidence has established that there is a relationship between dietary patterns and risk for chronic disease. The dietary intake of young children sets the stage for life-long habits. The purpose of this study was to estimate nutrient intakes of a subset of preschool children in military families. Results were compared to the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) and to the USDA 1994 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes of Individuals (CSFII). Twenty-four hour recalls were collected at two Air Force installations, one in Japan and one in the state of Washington. Recalls were collected by using the Multiple Pass Approach developed by the USDA. Data collection forms were modified for this sample. The nutrient content of all foods was determined by the Food Intake Analysis System (FIAS). The mean intakes of the children exceeded 66 2/3% of the RDA. The mean intakes of military children were significantly higher than the USDA 1994 CSFII for the following nutrients: energy, protein, vitamin A(RE), calcium phosphorous, iron, and potassium at the p
A Physics-Based Compact Model of III–V FETs for Digital Logic Applications: Current–Voltage and Capacitance–Voltage Characteristics

A physics-based analytical compact model of InGaAs field-effect transistors (FETs) for digital logic applications is developed. This model neither heavily depends on parameter extraction nor requires any time-consuming computation while capturing the essential physics, enabling digital circuit design and circuit-level performance estimation for III-V FETs. The model captures short channel effects, trapezoidal-shape quantum-well energies, bias-dependent ballistic ratios, and capacitances including 2D potential profile information. Each is verified via numerical calculations and 2D electrostatic simulation, followed by a comparison of the model I-V characteristics with experiment data. Finally, the transient response of FO4 inverters demonstrates the use of the compact model for future technology circuit simulations.
Molecular Identification and Functional Characterization of a Mitochondrial Sulfonylurea Receptor 2 Splice Variant Generated by Intraexonic Splicing

Rationale: Cardioprotective pathways may involve a mitochondrial ATP-sensitive potassium (mitoK ATP ) channel but its composition is not fully understood. Objective: We hypothesized that the mitoK ATP channel contains a sulfonylurea receptor (SUR)2 regulatory subunit and aimed to identify the molecular structure. Methods and Results: Western blot analysis in cardiac mitochondria detected a 55-kDa mitochondrial SUR2 (mitoSUR2) short form, 2 additional short forms (28 and 68 kDa), and a 130-kDa long form. RACE (Rapid Amplification of cDNA Ends) identified a 1.5-Kb transcript, which was generated by a nonconventional intraexonic splicing (IES) event within the 4th and 29th exons of the SUR2 mRNA. The translated product matched the predicted size of the 55-kDa short form. In a knockout mouse (SUR2KO), in which the SUR2 gene was disrupted, the 130-kDa mitoSUR2 was absent, but the short forms remained expressed. Diazoxide failed to induce increased fluorescence of flavoprotein oxidation in SUR2KO cells, indicating that the diazoxide-sensitive mitoK ATP channel activity was associated with 130-kDa–based channels. However, SUR2KO mice displayed similar infarct sizes to preconditioned wild type, suggesting a protective role for the remaining short form-based channels. Heterologous coexpression of the SUR2 IES variant and Kir6.2 in a K + transport mutant Escherichia coli strain permitted improved cell growth under acidic pH conditions. The SUR2 IES variant was localized to mitochondria, and removal of a predicted mitochondrial targeting sequence allowed surface expression and detection of an ATP-sensitive current when coexpressed with Kir6.2. Conclusions: We identify a novel SUR2 IES variant in cardiac mitochondria and provide evidence that the variant-based channel can form an ATP-sensitive conductance and may contribute to cardioprotection.
Differential localization and function of antibody-forming cells responsive to inactivated or live-attenuated influenza virus vaccines

Currently, there are two different types of licensed influenza virus vaccines available in the USA, the live attenuated cold-adapted vaccine and the inactivated vaccine. Children greater than 2 years of age and adults younger than 50 years (apart from those suffering from immunodeficiencies or lung disease) may choose between the two vaccines. Previous studies have shown that both vaccines elicit significant serum antibody responses. However, comprehensive analyses of antibody-forming cells (AFCs) in the upper respiratory tract (URT), the critical site of pathogen entry, have been lacking. We therefore compared influenza virus-specific antibody and AFC activities in systemic and mucosal tissues following immunizations of cotton rats with inactivated or live-attenuated vaccines, including vaccines from the 2009-10 and 2010-11 seasons. Results demonstrated that inactivated and live-attenuated vaccines induced virus-specific AFCs, but patterns of residence and function were highly disparate. The inactivated vaccine elicited AFCs predominantly in the spleen and bone marrow; IgG was the main isotype. In contrast, the live attenuated vaccine elicited acute and long-sustained AFC responses in the diffuse nasal-associated lymphoid tissue (d-NALT) and lung, with IgA being the predominant isotype. The appearance of these d-NALT URT responses was confirmed by a similar study of the 2009–10 live attenuated vaccine in ferrets. Data emphasize that the inactivated and live-attenuated vaccines that are each capable of protecting humans from influenza virus disease do so by very different modes of immune surveillance.
Nanoimprint Lithography and Lithographically Induced Self-Assembly

Our ability to pattern nanostructures offers a unique path to discovery and innovation in science and technology. When nanostructures are smaller than a fundamental physical length scale, conventional theory may no longer apply, and new phenomena emerge.
Effect of heterodimer partner RXRα on PPARγ activation function-2 helix in solution

Abstract The structural mechanism of allosteric communication between retinoid X receptor (RXR) and its heterodimer partners remains controversial. As a first step towards addressing this question, we report a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) study on the GW1929-bound peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) ligand-binding domain (LBD) with and without the 9-cis-retinoic acid (9cRA)-bound RXRα LBD. Sequence-specific 13Cα, 13Cβ, and 13CO resonance assignments have been established for over 95% of the 275 residues in the PPARγ LBD monomer. The 1HN, 15N, and 13CO chemical shift perturbations induced by the RXRα LBD binding are located at not only the heterodimer interface that includes the C-terminal residue Y477 but also residues Y473 and K474 in the activation function-2 (AF-2) helix. This result suggests that 9cRA-bound RXRα can affect the PPARγ AF-2 helix in solution and demonstrates that NMR is a powerful new tool for studying the mechanism of allosteric ligand activation in RXR heterodimers.
Alkaloid distribution in some new world Lupinus species

Abstract Alkaloidal profiles of 21 Lupinus species indigenous to North and South America have been determined. Nineteen quinolizidine alkaloids were identified, including aphyllidine and N -methylcytisine, which have not previously been found in the genus. Two dipiperidine alkaloids were also detected. The pattern of alkaloidal distribution is related to a taxonomic classification of the genus.
Realism and Romance: The Study of Media Effects

L'A. etudie la question des effets des medias sur les individus dans la societe americaine, dans le cadre des theories que certains chercheurs en communication ont presentees a ce sujet. Il met en evidence deux etudes recentes menees sur le theme des effets des medias, qui mettent l'accent sur le facteur culturel rattache a ces effets
Bioactive Peptide Signaling Within the Myocardial Interstitium and the Matrix Metalloproteinases

In response to a prolonged cardiovascular pathophysiological stimulus, a cascade of compensatory structural events occurs within the myocardium. This process occurs as a continuum and has been defined as myocardial remodeling. This remodeling process has been demonstrated within the myocardial compartment after myocardial infarction (MI), with hypertrophy, or in cardiomyopathic disease. Pharmacological interventions targeted at altering the adverse LV myocardial remodeling processes that invariably occur in these cardiac disease states hold therapeutic promise. Although myocardial remodeling is accompanied by changes in the cellular constituents of the LV myocardium, significant alterations in the structure and composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) also occur. Moreover, it has become increasingly evident that the fibrillar collagen matrix of the myocardial ECM is not a static structure, but rather a dynamic entity that may play a fundamental role in myocardial adaptation to a pathological stress and thereby facilitate the remodeling process. Therefore, identification and understanding of the biological systems responsible for ECM synthesis and degradation within the myocardium holds particular relevance. In this issue, Tsuruda and colleagues1 from the Mayo Clinic report on the interactive effects of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) on determinants of fibrillar collagen biosynthesis in cardiac fibroblasts. The results from this study emphasize the fact that the biologically active molecules that are contained within the myocardial interstitium do not act independently, but instead, a summation of signaling events ultimately determines the structure and function of the ECM. The fibroblast is the most numerous cell type within the myocardium and plays a critical role in the composition and structure of the myocardial ECM. Myocardial fibroblasts are responsive to biochemical and physical stimuli and rapidly proliferate as well as change biological behavior. Changes in myocardial fibroblast form and function contribute significantly the remodeling process after MI.2 The …
X‐Ray Powder Diffraction

Crystalline solids may be described as containing a unit of matter that when repeated in three-dimensional space reproduces the crystal. Because of the periodic nature of crystals and the fact that the distances between the atoms, that is, bond distances, are of the same order of magnitude as X-ray wavelengths, the crystals act as diffraction gratings toward X-ray beams. Diffraction from a small single crystal produces a three-dimensional array of spots whose geometry can be related to the geometry of the unit cell and the three noncoplanar vectors that describe the periodic arrangement of the unit cells. Knowledge of the intensities of the diffracted radiation allows the determination of the atoms within the unit cell. Many compounds occur as polycrystalline solids or powders. Most solids in nature are present as mixtures of two or more crystalline phases. Such materials still diffract X-rays but the three-dimensional array of spots is condensed into a one-dimensional array of diffraction lines or near Gaussian peaks. Because of this low dimensionality much less data are obtained; however, a great deal of information may still be derived from the powder pattern referred to as X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) for XRPD pattern. In its simplest form the XRPD may be used as a fingerprint to identify a particular phase or mixture of phases. The amount of each phase may be determined quantitatively. As the crystallite size decreases, the X-ray peaks broaden, so it is possible to obtain a measure of the crystallite size. Lattice strain also contributes to peak broadening, requiring that the two effects be separated for accuracy in interpretation of the data. The advent of high speed computers and highly engineered diffractometers allows for rapid accurate analysis of powder mixtures or the study of solid solutions, defects and other complexities of crystalline material. It is, in many cases, possible to determine the crystal structure of compounds from their X-ray powder data and this aspect of powder diffractometry is included here. Diffraction does not occur from amorphous solids, but X-rays are scattered and much information on particle size and short range order can be obtained from small angle X-ray and neutron scattering studies. Furthermore, EXAFS and Atomic Pair Distribution functions provide a means of probing the structures of amorphous and semicrystalline materials. Keywords: X-ray diffraction (XRD); powder diffraction pattern; unit cell; Bravais lattice; unit cell indexing procedures; interstitial solid solution; substitutional solid solution; preferred orientation (PO); lattice strain; crystallite size; thermodiffraction; reciprocal space; real space methods; thermal expansion coefficients; x-ray reflections; Bragg angle; profile fitting
Hierarchical porous and composite particle architectures based on self assembly and phase separation in droplets

Phase segregation between polymer and gelling silica has been utilized to introduce a controlled second level of porosity into mesoporous silica particles produced by evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) in aerosol droplets. During EISA within droplets, solvent evaporation leads to surfactant self-assembly, which introduces ordered mesoscale porosity into a silica matrix (after surfactant removal). In this work, it is shown that evaporation of aqueous droplets containing tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS), surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), and the hydrophilic polymer poly(acrylic acid) leads to hierarchically structured particles that display the mesoscale structure of the self-assembled surfactant and larger-scale domains introduced by phase separation of the polymer. Calcination of these particles produces hierarchically structured porous particles. The incorporation of the polymer does not interfere with the surfactant self-assembly or the resulting mesoscale porosity up to rather high levels of polymer loading. Variation of experimental parameters and conditions, such as the concentration of the polymer, solvent composition, and molecular weight of the polymer, has been shown to influence the structure and scale of polymer-derived voids within the particles, allowing the synthesis of single central voids (hollow particles), uniformly dispersed smaller voids, or a combination of these.
A Neuropathy in Goats Caused by Experimental Coyotillo (Karwinskia humboldtiana) Poisoning IV. Light and Electron Microscopic Lesions in Peripheral Nerves

Animals of several species, including man, are susceptible to the toxic effects of the fruits of the coyotillo shrub". The characteristics and distribution of lesions in peripheral nerves of goats poisoned experimentally with coyotillo have been reported recently4-6. The results of these light microscopic studies of teased fibers indicate that Schwann-cell injury manifested by swelling and segmental demyelination is widespread in this disease, and that axonal degeneration also occurs and is especially extensive at the ends of long nerves 4-6. This report describes the light and electron microscopic lesions in aralditeembedded samples of peripheral nerve collected from goats experimentally poisoned with coyotillo. This study formed part of a larger investigation of experimental coyotillo poisoning involving 26 goats3. Tissues from 16 of these goats (12 principals and 4 controls) were used in this study. The goats were killed at 2- or 3-day intervals between day 3 and day 23 of the experiment (except for one on day 102). The 2 goats killed on day 3 received 3 daily doses and all other goats received either 6 or 7 daily doses of coyotillo (0.04% or 0.05% of body weight per day). Details of the care and feeding, schedules of dosage and duration of survival of these goats have been described previously~~ 5. Small pieces of nerve (1 mm pieces of 1 fascicle) were removed from the mid-femoral region of the sciatic nerve of goats anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium immediately prior to euthanasia. These pieces were fixed in phosphate
New generation antiepileptic drugs: what do they offer in terms of improved tolerability and safety?

Over the last two decades a total of 11 antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have been introduced to the US market. Randomized, placebo-controlled trials have yielded information about each drug’s efficacy, tolerability, and safety profile; however, few studies have compared the newer generation AEDs directly with the older generation. Comparative studies are not always straightforward in their interpretation, as many characteristics of drugs, both favorable and unfavorable, may not be highlighted by such studies. In general, findings from the literature suggest that the newer generation AEDs (including vigabatrin, felbamate, gabapentin, lamotrigine, tiagabine, topiramate, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, zonisamide, pregabalin, rufinamide, and lacosamide) enjoy both improved tolerability and safety compared with older agents such as phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and valproate. This is partially supported by some of the findings of the QSS and the TTA Committee of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), whose review of four AEDs (gabapentin, lamotrigine, topiramate, and tiagabine) is discussed. Briefly, when compared with carbamazepine, lamotrigine was better tolerated; topiramate adverse events (AEs) were fairly comparable to carbamazepine and valproate; and tiagabine compared with placebo was associated with a higher discontinuation rate due to AEs. The findings of the SANAD trial are also presented; when administered to patients with partial epilepsy, carbamazepine was most likely to fail due to AEs, and lamotrigine and gabapentin were least likely to fail due to AEs. When administered to patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy, topiramate was most frequently associated with AE-related discontinuation, followed by valproate; and while valproate was the most efficacious drug in this arm of the study, lamotrigine was more tolerable. What makes the SANAD study valuable and somewhat unique is its head-to-head comparison of one drug with another. Such comparative trials are overall lacking for new AEDs, although some conclusions can be drawn from the available data. In the end, however, AED selection must be based on individual patient and drug characteristics.
Hydrocarbon seep monitoring using in situ deep sea mass spectrometry

Hydrocarbon seep monitoring is an area applicable for new advances in mass spectrometry. Recent developments are allowing unprecedented levels of trace contaminant measurement in the deep ocean. With funding from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), our engineering design team constructed a new mass spectrometer-based in situ analysis system for work in the deep ocean environment over prolonged deployment periods. Our design goals were a depth capability of up to 4,000 m water depth (400 bars hydrostatic pressure) and autonomous operation for periods of up to six months to a year, depending upon type of external battery system used or other deployment circumstances, e.g., availability of a power cable or fuel cell power source. We chose a membrane introduction mass spectrometry (MIMS) sampling approach, which allows for dissolved gases and volatile organics introduction into the MS vacuum system. The MIMS approach and the hydrophobic, silicon-coated membrane chosen both draw upon our previous experience with this technology in the deep ocean. The membrane has been tested to 400 bars in a series of long-term hydrostatic pressure tests, which extends the 200-bar working depth rating of this membrane by a factor of 2. Long-term deployment capability of the moderately powered, approximately 100 W system, was accomplished by power management of the embedded computer system and custom electronics, with Windows-based and custom software now fully developed and bench tested.
Legal Rights and Moral Rights: Old Questions and New Problems*

Abstract. The author examines the discipline of moral rights and in particular the need to embed them in a consequential system. He argues that the widely held opinion that independence from consequential evaluation is the right way of guaranteeing individual freedom is based on an inadequate appraisal of the role of moral rights in the social context. In this perspective he examines two specific cases: (1) elementary political and civil rights, and (2) the reproductive rights of women in the context of poor countries with the problem of fast population growth. He argues that a coherent goal-rights system which accommodates rights among others goals, can overcome the non-consequential arguments and justify the force of moral rights fully within a consequentiality perspective.
Religiosity, Spirituality, and Death Attitudes in Chronically Ill Older Adults

The aim of this study was to examine the association of religiosity and spirituality with fear of death and death acceptance attitudes in chronically ill older adults. In-home interviews were conducted with 257 community-dwelling elders with chronic illness identified through an administrative database of ambulatory care clinics from an academic health center in Kansas City and through primary care practices participating in a practice-based research network in North Carolina. Hierarchical regression models were constructed for predictor variables and the outcomes of fear of death and approach acceptance of death attitudes. Self-efficacy beliefs (b = —.097, p < .001), anxiety (b = .026, p < .01), and physical functioning (b = .015, p < .01) were significantly associated with fear of death attitudes. Self-reported religiosity (b = —.389, p < .001), closeness to God (b = —.595, p < .001), and age (b = —.019, p < .001) contributed significantly to the variance in the final model and were significantly associ...
Culture, creativity, and conceptual dynamics: A structural hypothesis

We redefine the concept of concept and focus on its role in the intersubjective processes that characterize cultures and socio-cultural communities. Conceptual density determines communitary coherence, whereas highly variable conceptual velocity determines inter-conceptual dynamics within distinct conceptual fields of activity. Conflicts opposing force of conceptual authority by knowledge value and force of conceptual authority through social power lead to states of socio-cultural consensus or dissensus. A model of socio-cultural concept structure is proposed. The creativity of concept formation is considered a major factor in historical time; different states of relative balance between creativity and stereotypicity are mentioned, including a dangerous neutralizing alliance of artistic and epistemic creativity on the one hand and technologically enhanced power concepts. In a sense, thinking is ubiquitous, but only certain forms of thinking are creative – those that minimize the influence of social power and maximize the slow intersubjective processes of shared experience that make culture be culture.
Investigating and targeting chronic lymphocytic leukemia metabolism with the human immunodeficiency virus protease inhibitor ritonavir and metformin

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) remains fatal due to the development of resistance to existing therapies. Targeting abnormal glucose metabolism sensitizes various cancer cells to chemotherapy and/or elicits toxicity. Examination of glucose dependency in CLL demonstrated variable sensitivity to glucose deprivation. Further evaluation of metabolic dependencies of CLL cells resistant to glucose deprivation revealed increased engagement of fatty acid oxidation upon glucose withdrawal. Investigation of glucose transporter expression in CLL reveals up-regulation of glucose transporter GLUT4. Treatment of CLL cells with human immunodeficiency (HIV) protease inhibitor ritonavir, which inhibits GLUT4, elicits toxicity similar to that elicited upon glucose deprivation. CLL cells resistant to ritonavir are sensitized by co-treatment with metformin, potentially targeting compensatory mitochondrial complex 1 activity. Ritonavir and metformin have been administered in humans for the treatment of diabetes in patients with HIV, demonstrating the tolerance to this combination in humans. Our studies strongly substantiate further investigation of Food and Drug Administration approved ritonavir and metformin for CLL.
Power distribution techniques for VLSI circuits

The onchip power distribution problem for highly scaled technologies is investigated. Metal migration and line resistance problems as well as ways to optimize multilayer metal technology for low resistance, low current density, and maximum wirability are also investigated. Fundamental lower limits and the limiting factors of the power-line current density and the voltage drop are studied. Tradeoffs between interconnect wirability and power distribution space are examined. Power routing schemes, as well as the optical number of metal layers and the optimal thickness of each layer, are examined. The results indicate that orders of magnitude improvements in current density and resistive voltage drop can be achieved using very few layers of thick metal whose thicknesses increase rapidly in ascending layers. Also, using the upper layers for power distribution and lower layers for signal routing results in the most wire length available for signal routing.
The Extracellular Domain of CD45 Controls Association with the CD4-T Cell Receptor Complex and the Response to Antigen-specific Stimulation

The CD45 tyrosine phosphatase plays an important role in regulating T lymphocyte activation, but the function of the different isoforms of CD45 is not known. T cell transfectants have been prepared that express individual CD45 isoforms in cells with a well-defined T cell receptor (TCR) from the D10 T helper 2 clone. We find that cells bearing low molecular weight CD45 isoforms are far more efficient in responding to stimulation with peptide and antigen-presenting cells compared with cells bearing high molecular weight CD45 isoforms. One hypothesis for the preferential activation of cells that express low molecular weight CD45 isoforms is that they interact with other cell surface antigens important in TCR signaling, altering their phosphorylation status and affecting the character of the signal transduction pathway. In this report, using cells expressing single isoforms, we demonstrate that low molecular weight isoforms of CD45 preferentially associate with CD4 and the TCR complex compared with high molecular weight isoforms. The molecular basis for this interaction was further examined using a glycosyl phosphatidyl inositol (GPI)-linked form of CD45Null (lacking tyrosine phosphatase domains), which preferentially associated with CD4 compared with GPI-linked CD45ABC, and cytoplasmic tail mutants of CD4, which retained the ability to coassociate. Using this panel of transfectants, it is clear that the interaction between CD4 and CD45 does not require the cytoplasmic domains of CD45, but is dependent on the specific external domain of the various isoforms: low molecular weight species were more likely to associate with the CD4-TCR complex than the higher molecular weight isoforms, and their ability to coassociate correlated with the magnitude of the response to specific antigen.
Impact behavior of hybrid fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)/autoclave aerated concrete (AAC) panels for structural applications

Abstract: The low velocity impact response of plain autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) and FRP/AAC sandwich panels has been investigated. The structural sandwich panels composed of a FRP/AAC combination have shown excellent characteristics in terms of high strength and high stiffness-to-weight ratios. In addition to having adequate flexural and shear properties, the behavior of FRP/AAC sandwich panels needs to be investigated when subjected to impact loading. During service, the structural members in the building structures are subjected to impact loading that varies from object-caused impact, blast due to explosions, to high velocity impact of debris during tornados, hurricanes, or storms. Low velocity impact (LVI) testing serves as a means to quantify the allowable impact energy that the structure is able to withstand and to assess the typical failure modes encountered during this type of loading. The objectives of this chapter are: to study the response of plain AAC and CFRP/AAC sandwich structures to low velocity impact and to assess the damage performance of the panels; to study the effect of FRP laminates on the impact response of CFRP/AAC panels; to study the effect of the processing method (hand layup versus VARTM) and panel stiffness on the impact response of the hybrid panels. Impact testing was conducted using an Instron drop-tower testing machine. Experimental results showed a significant influence of CFRPs laminates on the energy absorbed and peak load of the CFRP/AAC panels. Further, a theoretical analysis was conducted to predict the energy absorbed by the CFRP/AAC sandwich panel using the energy balance model, and the results found were in good accordance with the experimental ones.
H∞ and H2 Controllers

In the LQG controller design we assumed that the control inputs are collocated with disturbances, and that the control output was collocated with the performance. This assumption imposes significant limits on the LQG controller possibilities and applications. The locations of control inputs do not always coincide with the disturbance locations, and the locations of controlled output are not necessarily collocated with the location where the system performance is evaluated. The H2 and H∞ controllers address the controller design problem in its general configuration of noncollocated disturbance and control inputs, and noncollocated performance and control outputs. Many books and papers have been published addressing different aspects of H∞ controller design, and [24], [81], [73], [78], [12], [77], [95], and [102] explain the basic issues of the method. The H∞ method addresses wide range of the control problems, combining the frequency and time-domain approaches. The design is an optimal one in the sense of minimization of the H∞ norm of the closed-loop transfer function. The H∞ model includes colored measurement and process noise. It also addresses the issues of robustness due to model uncertainties, and is applicable to the singleinput-single—output systems as well as to the multiple-input—multiple-output systems.
Excessive test costs in clinical research protocols

Abstract The escalation of health care costs has become an essential part of clinical research. Some clinical research protocols appear to require excessive laboratory testing. A review of an adjuvant breast cancer trial compared the costs of the required laboratory tests to those deemed “essential”; to meet the goals of the study. A reduction of 59% in the laboratory tests over 6 1/2 years was accomplished. It is apparent that a significant reduction in cost can be accomplished. With such efforts, greater participation in clinical trials might occur. These observations are relevant in cancer education programs that involve patients on research protocols.
Effects of Large Load and Shear Rate Variations on the Friction of a Branched Hydrocarbon Liquid

Shear measurements were performed on mica surfaces with molecularly thin films of squalane confined between them. Squalane is a branched hydrocarbon liquid that can be in the liquid, glassy or liquid-crystalline state under confinement. The friction forces, especially the transitions between smooth and intermittent (e.g., stick-slip) sliding, were measured over a wide range of applied loads and sliding velocities. The results reveal that, depending on the conditions, qualitatively different behavior can arise in the same system. These include both abrupt and continuous transitions, short and very long transient effects, and chaotic or saw-tooth stick-slip. The differences between these branched and simpler molecules are compared, and the results are analyzed in terms of rate-and-state models traditionally used in the analysis of seismic phenomena.
Loss of NADPH oxidase-derived superoxide induces CD4 T cell antigen-specific hyporesponsiveness by modulating IL-12 signaling (IRM5P.637)

Efficient T cell adaptive immune activation requires innate immune-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Our laboratory previously demonstrated blunted CD4 T cell autoreactivity in the absence of NADPH oxidase (NOX)-derived superoxide, as NOX-deficient Non-obese diabetic (NOD. Ncf1 m1J ) mice exhibited spontaneous Type 1 diabetes-resistance, partly due to decreased Th1 cytokine responses. To examine the role of ROS deficiency on antigen-specific T cells in a non-autoimmune setting and further test the hypothesis that ROS exacerbates Th1 T cell responses, we generated the OT-II. Ncf1 m1J mouse containing superoxide-deficient OVA 323-339 -specific CD4 T cells. Stimulated OT-II. Ncf1 m1J splenocytes displayed decreased Th1 T cell cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α ( p 0.05) and diminished expression of the Th1 transcription factor T-bet and Th1 signal transducer IL-12Rβ2, compared to OT-II CD4 T cells. IFN-γ synthesis and IL-12 signaling by OT-II. Ncf1 m1J T cells were rescued by addition of exogenous superoxide and co-culture with superoxide-sufficient antigen-presenting cells; conversely, Th1 responses were blunted in wild type OT-II T cells via free radical dissipation with a superoxide dismutase mimetic. This data highlights the importance of NOX-derived ROS in providing a third signal for adaptive immune maturation by modulating IL-12 signaling and implicates that targeting ROS may represent a promising therapeutic strategy in curbing CD4 T cell autoreactivity.
Repair of interrupted aortic arch in infancy.

Twenty-one patients undergoing repair of interrupted aortic arch between December of 1979 and January of 1987 were reviewed to determine the cause(s) of late morbidity and mortality. Ten underwent staged repair, and 11 had complete repair including all coexisting defects at the initial operation. Sixty-two percent are alive and clinically well 6 months to 6 years after the initial operation. Among the five patients who died late postoperatively, four had severe left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Two other patients have had surgical relief of severe subaortic stenosis. In addition, significant recurrent or residual coarctation was found in four patients; it was relieved by balloon angioplasty in two patients, and two had surgical repair. None of the most recent seven patients, however, have had a residual ascending-descending aortic gradient Careful follow-up for the detection of previously masked or newly developed left ventricular outflow tract obstruction is imperative and may be lifesaving.
Measuring and Predicting Search Engine Users’ Satisfaction

Search satisfaction is defined as the fulfillment of a user’s information need. Characterizing and predicting the satisfaction of search engine users is vital for improving ranking models, increasing user retention rates, and growing market share. This article provides an overview of the research areas related to user satisfaction. First, we show that whenever users choose to defect from one search engine to another they do so mostly due to dissatisfaction with the search results. We also describe several search engine switching prediction methods, which could help search engines retain more users. Second, we discuss research on the difference between good and bad abandonment, which shows that in approximately 30p of all abandoned searches the users are in fact satisfied with the results. Third, we catalog techniques to determine queries and groups of queries that are underperforming in terms of user satisfaction. This can help improve search engines by developing specialized rankers for these query patterns. Fourth, we detail how task difficulty affects user behavior and how task difficulty can be predicted. Fifth, we characterize satisfaction and we compare major satisfaction prediction algorithms.
Approaches to Scientific Modeling, and the (Non)Issue of Representation: A Case Study in Multi-model Research on Thigmotaxis and Group Thermoregulation

Recent contributions to the philosophical literature on scientific modeling have tended to follow one of two approaches, on the one hand addressing conceptual, metaphysical and epistemological questions about models, or, on the other hand, emphasizing the cognitive aspects of modeling and accordingly focusing on model-based reasoning. In this paper I explore the relationship between these two approaches through a case study of model-based research on the behavior of infant rats, particularly thigmotaxis (movement based on tactile sensation) and temperature regulation in groups. A common assumption in the philosophical literature is that models represent the target phenomena they simulate. In the modeling project under investigation, however, this assumption was not part of the model-based reasoning process, arising only in a theoretical article as, I suggest, a post hoc rhetorical device. I argue that the otherwise nonexistent concern with the model-target relationship as being representational results from a kind of objectification often at play in philosophical analysis, one that can be avoided if an alternative form of objectification is adopted instead.