cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Discontinuous enrichment in finite elements with a partition of unity method

We present an approximate analytical method to evaluate efficiently and accurately the call blocking probabilities in wavelength routing networks with multiple classes of calls. The model is fairly general and allows each source-destination pair to service calls of different classes, with each call occupying one wavelength per link. Our approximate analytical approach involves two steps. The arrival process of calls on some routes is first modified slightly to obtain an approximate multiclass network model. Next, all classes of calls on a particular route are aggregated to give an equivalent single-class model. Thus, path decomposition algorithms for single-class wavelength routing networks may be readilt extended to the multiclass case. This article is a first step towards understanding the issues arising in wavelength routing networks that serve multiple classes of customers.
A general Critical Care Ultrasonography workshop: results of a novel Web-based learning program combined with simulation-based hands-on training.

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to facilitate attainment of Critical Care Ultrasonography (CCUS) competence. Materials and Methods We developed a Web-based learning program followed by simulation-based hands-on training in noncardiac CCUS for novice learners. We administered knowledge and skills tests before and after the workshop and conducted surveys on confidence levels using a 10-point Likert scale. Knowledge tests were conducted online, and skills tests were video-captured for evaluation. Results Sixteen physicians participated in a 4-hour combined vascular and thoracic CCUS workshop, and 23 in a 2-hour abdominal CCUS workshop. In the combined vascular and thoracic workshop, the mean (SD) pre-workshop and post-workshop knowledge scores were 24 (4) and 33 (5), respectively, out of 43 ( P P P P P Conclusions Our novel hybrid educational workshop on general CCUS significantly improved knowledge, skills, and confidence levels. Our flexibly scheduled module can be a practical option for the busy intensivist.
Several Theorems in Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory

The time dependence of the exchange-correlation energy in density functional theory is given in terms of the exchange-correlation potential. The virial theorem for the exchange-correlation potential is shown to hold for time-dependent electronic systems and is illustrated by an exactly solved model: Hooke’s atom with a time-dependent force constant. A relation between the coupling constant and functionals evaluated on scaled densities is derived. [S0031-9007(98)08169-1]
Socio-economic classification of farm households —conceptual, methodical and empirical considerations

The methodical and conceptual deficiencies of traditional classification schemes is discussed in th is article, referring to the socioeconomic classification scheme curr ently used in West Germany. Next, the methodical aspects of using cl uster-analysis techniques for constructing a revised socioeconomic cl assification scheme are outlined and the variable selection procedure is explained. The classification obtained here consists of four type s of farm households, divided according to whether the operator and/o r other family members have nonfarm employment or not. Copyright 1987 by Oxford University Press.
Enhanced Oil Recovery by Flooding With Dilute Aqueous Chemical Solutions

In this process, relatively small amounts of ''EOR-active'' substances present in certain petroleum-based sulfonates are found to recover 15-20 percent of the residual oil from waterflooded Berea sandstone cores. The chemicals are injected in the form of slugs of their aqueous solutions. The main features of the displacement process are discussed. The results hold great potential for developing a simple and economical tertiary oil recovery process that can recover, very substantially, more oil (light as well as moderately viscous) than is now considered possible by conventional chemical floods. 5 refs.
The effect of temperature-salinity combinations on the functional well-being of adult Lytechinus variegatus (Lamarck) (Echlnodermata, Echinoldea)

Abstract The activity coefficient (1000/righting time in sec) was measured to indicate the functional state of Lytechinus variegatus (Lamarck) after exposure to combinations of temperature (22°, 28°, and 34°C) and salinity (25, 30, 35, and 40 ‰). Environmental levels of these variables were 30–33°C and 34–35 ‰. The results indicate that the species lives closer to the upper than lower lethal limits of temperature and salinity. The maximal activity coefficient (18 ± 8) was at 28°C and 35 ‰. A reduction in salinity was probably responsible for a recent mass mortality of the echinoid reported in the eastern Gulf of Mexico.
Optimization of Secondary-Air Addition in a Continuous One-Dimensional Spray Combustor

A framework is established for optimal control of continuous combustors using the sequential linear quadratic algorithm. An analysis is presented for liquid-fuel vaporization and burning in a continuous combustor with secondary-air addition at downstream locations. A steady one-dimensional flow is portrayed and a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations is established. Three combustion models are presented with different rate-controlling processes: vaporization, vaporization-mixing, and vaporization-mixing-reaction. The models have a sufficient number of characteristic times and sufficient nonlinearity to provide a challenge to an optimization procedure. The proposed method yields an optimal distribution of secondary-air addition.
A short guide to nomenclature of radicals, radical ions, iron-oxygen complexes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Abstract This article summarizes and illustrates by examples the principal official rules for naming some species used by research writers in the field of free radical biology.
Experimental measurements of nitrogen remineralization in coastal waters 1

Ammonium remineralization was measured in the euphotic zone of two coastal areas using a 15N isotope dilution technique. Remineralization fluxes were high in both areas and often exceeded assimilation fluxes. A strong positive correlation between ammonium remineralization and ammonium and carbon dioxide assimilation suggests a close coupling of photosynthesis and nitrogen recycling. Regenerative fluxes decreased with depth and with distance offshore, but to a relatively lesser extent than did assimilative fluxes. Turnover times for remineralzation of utilizable organic nitrogen were estimated to be from 3 to 16 days. Size fractionation experiments and estimates from the literature suggest that microplankton (< I83 pm) may have been the primary nitrogen remineralizers.
Learning from dam removal monitoring: Challenges to selecting experimental design and establishing significance of outcomes

As the decommissioning of dams becomes a common restoration technique, decisions about dam removals must be based on sound predictions of expected outcomes. Results of past and ongoing dam removal monitoring are an important source of information that practitioners may utilize to evolve predictive and decision-making tools, emphasizing the need for thorough and defensible documentation of dam removal outcomes. However, as dam removals challenge many basic assumptions of conventional experimental designs and data analysis techniques, the quality of information available to aid decision-making may be questionable or misleading. Nevertheless, some study design principles and analysis procedures may be robust to the challenges presented by dam removal research. To assist managers in undertaking dam removal monitoring, this article discusses the assets and limitations of monitoring and analysis options available for dam removal studies, with emphasis on selecting a rigorous experimental design and determining significance of results. As the chosen monitoring design will influence the appropriateness of applying standard analytical methods, particularly statistical hypothesis testing, researchers should carefully consider constraints inherent to dam removal studies when designing a monitoring plan and assigning significance to observed changes. Ecological significance is often the most justifiable method for framing significance of dam removal outcomes, though it may be complicated by identification of environmentally significant thresholds. Another alternative is evaluation of the practical significance of results, when observed changes exceed measurement error and background variability. Establishing practical significance may be informative when statistical and ecological significance is inappropriate or impossible to determine. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Noncoronary collateral myocardial blood flow.

Abstract This study shows that noncoronary collateral flow occurs in normal hearts after chronic coronary occlusion and with left ventricular hypertrophy in variable amounts (0.2 to 16 ml/100 gm/min). Luminal–left ventricular flow is negligible in the working heart. Nonluminal noncoronary collateral flow is greatest when the heart is arrested by aortic cross-clamping, falls significantly when perfusion pressure is lowered to 50 mm Hg, and increases slightly when blood viscosity is reduced (hemodilution). Our findings indicate that the heart which is arrested by aortic cross-clamping may not be anoxic.
Effects of Masking Noise on the Representation of Vowel Spectra in the Auditory Nerve

Steady-state vowels can be discriminated in background noise at signal to noise ratios of less than -15 dB (Dewson, 1968). Thus, the information relating to the spectrum of a vowel stimulus which is contained in the firing patterns of the ensemble of auditory-nerve fibers must remain when the vowels are presented in background noise. Spectral features may be encoded in auditory-nerve discharge patterns in at least two ways: One in terms of the distribution of average discharge rate as a function of fibers’ characteristic frequencies (CF) (rate-place representation, Sachs and Young, 1979), and the other in terms of temporal or phase-locked responses (temporal-place representation, Young and Sachs, 1979). We have shown previously (Young and Sachs, 1979) that the temporal-place code provides a more robust representation of vowel formant frequencies than does the rate-place code. In this paper we shall compare the effects of broad-band noise on these two representations of the spectrum of the vowel /e/.
Popularity Awareness in Temporal-DHT for P2P-based Media Streaming Applications

Application-layer overlay networks are receiving considerable popularity due to its flexibility and readily deployable nature thereby providing support for a plethora of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) applications. Currently, the real-world deployment of Internet-scale P2P media streaming systems involve the usage of tracker server for content discovery in on-demand model with asynchronous interactivity. The inherent drawbacks of tracker-server based approach are obvious due to scalability and bottleneck issues, which prompted us to pursue a structured P2P based proposition such as Distributed Hash Tables (DHT) which are already proved to be stable substrates. The challenging issue of accommodating a large number of update operations with the continuous change of user's playing position in DHT-based overlay is addressed in our previous work by the concept of Temporal-DHT which exploits the temporal dynamics of the content to estimate playing position. In this paper, we incorporate the notion of popularity awareness in the Temporal-DHT framework which will help to adapt the query resolution mechanism by addressing the skew ness of content popularity typically found in real multimedia user access patterns. The essential objective of popularity awareness mechanism is to increase the overall performance of Temporal-DHT by optimizing the search cost among the entire content set within the system. We formulate the problem and provide practical solutions with extensive simulation results that demonstrates the effectiveness of popularity-aware Temporal-DHT by achieving optimized query resolution cost and high streaming quality for on-demand systems in a dynamic network environment where user's are free to asynchronously join/leave the system.
Sulfation and glucuronidation of benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol in intestinal mucosa of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus).

Abstract Intestinal metabolism plays a significant role in the bioavailability of ingested environmental toxicants. In this study, the potential for first pass, phase 2 biotransformation of benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol (BaP-7,8-diol) in intestinal mucosa was examined. Sulfotransferase and Uridine 5′-Diphospho-Glucuronyl-transferase activity were measured in cytosol, and microsomes respectively. Radiolabeled conjugation products were analyzed by TLC and high-performance liquid chomatography (HPLC). The results indicated that BaP-7,8-diol was a poor substrate for intestinal sulfotransferase. Vmax for the sulfation of BaP-7,8-diol was 0.002 nmol mg−1 min−1, which is at least three orders of magnitudes lower than the Vmax for phenolic BaP metabolites. Studies with 3′phosphoadenosine-5′phosphosulfate (PAP)-35S as co-substrate showed that an unidentified compound in the reaction mixture was sulfated, dependent on the BaP-7,8-diol concentration. This could indicate that BaP-7,8-diol was interacting with a regulatory site on the enzyme and stimulated sulfation of an endogenous molecule in cytosol. Kinetic analysis of microsomal glucuronidation resulted in a Vmax of 0.30 nmol mg−1 min−1 (±0.06 S.D., n=4), with a Km of 23.39 μM (±2.66 S.D.). The Km for the co-substrate UDP-glucuronic acid was approximately 43 μM. The slow rates for sulfation and glucuronidation of BaP-7,8-diol may explain its relatively high systemic availability when ingested or produced by intestinal phase 1 enzymes.
Closest point search in high dimensions

The problem of finding the closest point in high-dimensional spaces is common in computational vision. Unfortunately, the complexity of most existing search algorithms, such as k-d tree and R-tree, grows exponentially with dimension, making them impractical for dimensionality above 15. In nearly all applications, the closest point is of interest only if it lies within a user specified distance /spl epsiv/. We present a simple and practical algorithm to efficiently search for the nearest neighbor within Euclidean distance /spl epsiv/. Our algorithm uses a projection search technique along with a novel data structure to dramatically improve performance in high dimensions. A complexity analysis is presented which can help determine /spl epsiv/ in structured problems. Benchmarks clearly show the superiority of the proposed algorithm for high dimensional search problems frequently encountered in machine vision, such as real-time object recognition.
RUNNING SPEED OF GOAL-SEEKING RATS: A FIELD THEORETICAL ANALYSIS

Summary.-Lewin introduced into psychology the concept of psychological force but was unable to specify an equation of motion, relating force to behavior. Physical analogs prove helpful in developing Lewin's ideas. The effort exerted by a hungry rat seeking food at the end of a linear runway can be defined as proportional to the gradient of a maximally smooth scalar field, whose source is the food in the goal box. This assumption leads to a direct analog becween potential energy and utility in psychology. If a Newtonian equation of motion is used with this definition of force, the results compare favorably with Hull's data on rats' running behavior. There have been numerous attempts to reconcile the theoretical approaches of Hull and Lewin in the aaalysis of behavior (e.g., Lewin, 1938; Hull, 1938; Buxton, 1940; Cohen, 1953). One of the more interesting interactions between the two began over four decades ago in the context of maze-running behavior of rats, and in particular over what Hull called the goal-gradient hypothesis and its relationship to the speed-of-locomotion gradient. Hull (1932, 1934) was concerned with the strength of response at different distances from a goal and interpreted the acceleration of hungry rats toward food as evidence of a greater "excitatory tendency" closer to the goal. Others, including Lewin, have equated Hull's concept of "excitatory tendency" with "psychological force" (Lewin, 1938; Buxton, 1940).
Experimental characterization of non-directed indoor infrared channels

We have experimentally characterized nondirected indoor channels that use intensity modulation and direct detection of an infrared carrier at a wavelength of 832 nm. At several locations in each of five different rooms, we have studied line-of-sight and diffuse link configurations, with and without shadowing, amounting to a total of approximately 100 different channels. We have measured channel frequency responses over the 2-300 MHz range by using a swept-modulation frequency technique, and from these data, we have computed channel impulse responses, path losses and r.m.s. delay spreads. Using channel impulse responses, we have calculated power penalties induced by multipath intersymbol interference in baseband on-off-keyed links operating at bit rates of 10, 30 and 100 Mb/s, considering unequalized links and those employing zero-forcing decision-feedback equalization. Unshadowed line-of-sight configurations generally have smaller path losses, r.m.s. delay spreads and power penalties than their unshadowed diffuse counterparts. Shadowed line-of-sight configurations, however, generally exhibit larger values of all three parameters than the corresponding shadowed diffuse configurations. We show that among the channels measured here, there is a strong correspondence between channel r.m.s. delay spread and multipath power penalty. Finally, we provide an analysis indicating why non-directed infrared channels using intensity modulation and direct detection do not exhibit multipath fading, and justifying their representation as linear, time-invariant systems. >
Paradox of downstream fining and weathering-rind formation in the lower Hoh River, Olympic Peninsula, Washington

Although downstream fining of clasts is typical in modern and ancient river systems, the Hoh River, a cobble-and-boulder-bed river in Washington state, contains surprisingly little downstream fining of the coarsest tail of the grain-size distribution along its lower 63 km. Mean rate of fining of the coarsest size fraction is only 0.24 mm/km, barely significant given uncertainties in measurement. In addition, these same clasts have weathering-rind thicknesses that change very little along the length of the river (they decrease by 0.01 mm/km). Because weathering rinds are well developed in this setting and both tumbler studies and field observations show that abrasion of weathering rinds greatly accelerates clast diminution, there seems to be a paradox between predicted and observed downstream fining rates. Field study shows that detritus is constantly being resupplied to the river by erosion of late glacial materials along the river9s cutbanks and tributaries. The clasts supplied range in size but include abundant coarse grains with very thick weathering rinds. The continuous resupply of grains strongly attenuates the rate of downstream fining, despite the fact that these weathered grains abrade relatively rapidly. Thus, the dominance of reworked glacial debris overwhelms any processes by which grains are reduced in size in the modern river. These results suggest that relatively infrequent glaciation can have a long-lived effect on river sedimentation.
On African Origins: Creolization and Connaissance in Haitian Vodou

What is African in the African diaspora? In this article, I return to the problematic question of African origins in the black Americas, arguing that despite the distortions of baseline genealogies and associated myths of tribal purity, West African cultural frameworks—when critically reformulated—illuminate New World dynamics of creolization. Focusing on the Petwo paradox in Haitian Vodou, which opposes Creole powers of money and magic to the venerated, if enervated, authority of Ginen (Africa), I address a fairly narrow debate regarding the division of Petwo and Rada deities and their imputed Creole versus African origins. Against the ideology of Haitian Vodou, and its misleading influence on various scholars, a Yoruba–Dahomean cultural hermeneutic reveals the African origins and revisionary principles of the Petwo and Rada opposition, as it emerged before the Haitian revolution and realigned with class relations under Francois Duvalier, [African diaspora, creolization, secrecy, hermeneutics, race and class, Vodou]
STABILITY OF DOW CORNING Q2-3183A ANTIFOAM IN IRRADIATED HYDROXIDE SOLUTION

Researchers at the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) examined the stability of Dow Corning Q2-3183A antifoam to radiation and aqueous hydroxide solutions. Initial foam control studies with Hanford tank waste showed the antifoam reduced foaming. The antifoam was further tested using simulated Hanford tank waste spiked with antifoam that was heated and irradiated (2.1 x 10{sup 4} rad/h) at conditions (90 C, 3 M NaOH, 8 h) expected in the processing of radioactive waste through the Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant (WTP) at Hanford. After irradiation, the concentration of the major polymer components polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) in the antifoam was determined by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). No loss of the major polymer components was observed after 24 h and only 15 wt% loss of PDMS was reported after 48 h. The presence of degradation products were not observed by gas chromatography (GC), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) or high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). G values were calculated from the GPC analysis and tabulated. The findings indicate the antifoam is stable for 24 h after exposure to gamma radiation, heat, and alkaline simulated waste.
JOB SATISFACTION AS A COMPONENT OF HAPPINESS AMONG MALES AND FEMALES

Using a sample made up of four independently drawn U. S. national surveys, partial correlation was conducted separately by occupational categories for white male (n= 1,161) and female (n= 491) full-time employees to estimate the relationship between job satisfaction and global happiness when the effects of satisfaction experienced in seven other domains of life and age, education, income, and occupational prestige were removed. For most occupations and both sex groups few of the job satisfaction-global happiness partial correlations were significant, thus extending previous evidence that job satisfaction may not be uniquely important to the overall happiness of most employees.
Developing role models for health in the fire service: a pilot case study

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this case study were to develop role models for health in the fire service through knowledge and behaviour change, to improve the role models' own health, and to facilitate behaviour change in other firefighters through their example. DESIGN: Volunteers interested in improving their own health and serving as role models to others in the fire service were identified at a statewide Maryland fire service leadership meeting. SETTING: Participants worked with the Johns Hopkins Weight Management Center to learn how to improve their own health and shared that knowledge with others in their fire departments. PARTICIPANTS: Three Maryland fire service leaders were recruited at a leadership meeting with the goal of improving their own health and becoming role models. One participant dropped out shortly after beginning, while two male participants, aged 57 and 61, completed the study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Quantitative measures were collected at baseline and 12 months, and included weight, blood pressure and fasting glucose and cholesterol. Semi-structured interviews were conducted approximately 14 months postintervention to determine the participants' perceptions of their own health and impact on others in the fire service. RESULTS: Each participant had biweekly to monthly visits over a one-year period to learn the knowledge and skills that would assist him with improving dietary behaviours, increasing fitness and achieving a healthy weight. Case study participants experienced reductions in body weight (-13% and -11% of total body weight), glucose and blood pressure. Qualitative one-on-one interviews conducted postintervention with the participants revealed that they embraced their status as role models and felt their success inspired other firefighters. Their experiences suggest that role models can play an important role in helping firefighters increase self-efficacy, self-regulation and social support in the workplace environment. CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide promising evidence for the use of role models to improve health, especially in the workplace. Language: en
Effect of intermittent right bundle branch block on right ventricular contractility

I SOLATED right bundle branch block in man has been found to cause a slight delay in the onset of right ventricular contraction.1-5 This condition is occasionally present in an intermittent form with random alternation of normal and blocked beats6r7 In the present study right ventricular performance was evaluated in a patient with intermittent right bundle branch block. A change in the maximal rate of rise of right ventricular pressure from any given end-diastolic pressure was used as an index of a change in contractility.s-10 A preliminary report of this work has been presented.”
Perioperative Management of Pediatric Patients with Craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis, premature closures of the skull sutures, results in dysmorphic features if left untreated. Brain growth and cognitive development may also be impacted. Craniosynostosis repair is usually performed in young infants and has its perioperative challenges. This article provides background information about the different forms of craniosynostosis, with an overview of associated anomalies, genetic influences, and their connection with cognitive function. It also discusses the anesthetic considerations for perioperative management, including blood-loss management and strategies to reduce homologous blood transfusions.
Associations between perinatal factors and adiponectin and leptin in 9-year-old Mexican-American children.

Summary Objectives: To (i) determine whether perinatal factors (including maternal anthropometry and nutrition and early life growth measures) are associated with adiponectin and leptin levels in 9-year-old children, and (ii) assess relationships between adiponectin, leptin and concurrent lipid profile in these children. Methods: We measured plasma adiponectin and leptin for 146 mothers–9-year-old child pairs from the ongoing longitudinal birth cohort followed by the Center for the Health Assessment of Mothers and Children of Salinas. Data on perinatal factors, including sociodemographics, maternal anthropometry and nutrition, and early life child growth were collected during pregnancy, birth and 6-month visits. Results: Greater rate of weight and length gain during the first 6 months of life were associated with lower adiponectin in 9-year-olds ( b=- 2.0, P = 0.04; b=- 8.2, P = 0.02, respectively) adjusting for child body mass index (BMI). We found no associations between child adipokine levels and either maternal calorie, protein, total fat, saturated fat, fibre, sugar-sweetened beverage consumption during pregnancy or children's concurrent sugar-sweetened beverage and fast food intake. Lipid profile in 9-year-old children closely reflected adiponectin but not leptin levels after adjustment for child BMI. Additionally, we report that child adipokine levels were closely related to their mothers’ levels at the 9-year visit. Conclusion: Overall, our results support the hypothesis that early life factors may contribute to altered adipokine levels in children.
Assessing Data Quality in Manual Entry of Ventilator Settings

Objective: To evaluate the data quality of ventilator settings recorded by respiratory therapists using a computer charting application and assess the impact of incorrect data on computerized ventilator management protocols. Design: An analysis of 29,054 charting events gathered over 12 months from 678 ventilated patients (1,736 ventilator days) in four intensive care units at a tertiary care hospital. Measurements: Ten ventilator settings were examined, including fraction of inspired oxygen (Fio2), positive end- expiratory pressure (PEEP), tidal volume, respiratory rate, peak inspiratory flow, and pressure support. Respiratory therapists entered values for each setting approximately every two hours using a computer charting application. Manually entered values were compared with data acquired automatically from ventilators using an implementation of the ISO/IEEE 11073 Medical Information Bus (MIB). Data quality was assessed by measuring the percentage of time that the two sources matched. Charting delay, defined as the interval between data observation and data entry, also was measured. Results: The percentage of time that settings matched ranged from 99.0% (PEEP) to 75.9% (low tidal volume alarm setting). The average charting delay for each charting event was 6.1 minutes, including an average of 1.8 minutes spent entering data in the charting application. In 559 (3.9%) of 14,263 suggestions generated by computerized ventilator management protocols, one or more manually charted setting values did not match the MIB data. Conclusion: Even at institutions where manual charting of ventilator settings is performed well, automatic data collection can eliminate delays, improve charting efficiency, and reduce errors caused by incorrect data.
Strategies to Recruit and Retain College Smokers in Cessation Trials

Techniques to recruit and retain college fraternity and sorority members who reported past 30-day smoking into a cessation trial are described. Recruitment efforts included relationship-building, raffles, and screening survey administration during existing meetings. Surveys were administered to 76% (n = 3,276) of members in 30 chapters, 79% of eligible members agreed to participate, and 76% of those completed assessments and were enrolled in the trial (n = 452). The retention rate was 73%. Retention efforts included cash incentives, flexible scheduling, multiple reminders, chapter incentives, and use of chapter members as study personnel. Retention was not related to demographic, behavioral, or group characteristics. The strategies of partnership, convenience, and flexibility appear effective and may prove useful to investigators recruiting similar samples. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:144–155, 2010
Detailed analyses in prediction of capacitive-mismatch-induced offset in dynamic comparators

Due to the positive feedback and the time varying clock signal, the operating point of each transistor in dynamic comparators is time varying and cannot be analyzed using traditional Op-Amp-based small signal analysis. Until recently, a balanced method is proposed to effectively get the analytical models for random offset caused by variations in process parameters. Meanwhile, it has been shown that mismatches from parasitic capacitors are also significant contributors to overall offset. However, the energy storage and nonlinear feature of capacitor make it even more challenging to analytically predict the capacitive mismatch induced offset. In this work, the previous proposed balance method is generalized and applied to tackle the problem of capacitive mismatch induced offset. The analytical models are derived to explicitly show offsets caused by capacitor mismatch at different internal nodes. The insights are obtained on identifying the sensitive nodes to capacitor mismatch and on how to reduce the offset. The numerical example validates the effectiveness of the analytical models.
PITCHFORK-TYPE BIFURCATIONS IN A PARAMETRICALLY EXCITED, PD-CONTROLLED PENDULUM OR MANIPULATOR

Abstract In this paper, the effect of a vibrating support base upon the behavior of a simple robotic manipulator with PD control is examined. The physical system to be controlled, i.e., the plant, is modelled initially as an inverted pendulum. The vibrating support generates a time-periodic parametric excitation of the controller–plant system that is shown, under certain operating conditions, to produce a bifurcation in the steady state motion, whereby a globally stable limit cycle encircling the target position is replaced by two offset, and competing, periodic attractors. The basins of attraction of each are sketched, and predictive criteria for the bifurcation to occur are presented in terms of key system parameters. As the resulting steady state error can be quite large, the post-bifurcation regime of motion often implies a total control failure and is therefore of significant interest. The extrapolation of the results obtained for a higher ordered model is discussed, and the bifurcation boundary is mapped in the disturbance parameter plane for a two-degrees-of-freedom manipulator model.
McArdle's disease presenting with asymmetric, late-onset arm weakness.

McArdle's disease or myophosphorylase deficiency is one of the most common muscle glycogenoses and typically presents in childhood or adolescence with exercise intolerance, myalgia, myoglobinuria, and cramps in exercising muscle. We describe an elderly man who developed asymmetric proximal arm weakness at age 73. He had no history of exercise-induced cramps, myalgias, or myoglobinuria. Creatine kinase levels were elevated, serum lactate did not rise on ischemic exercise testing, and muscle biopsy showed a vacuolar myopathy with absent myophosphorylase activity. This unusual case demonstrates that McArdle's disease may present with fixed, asymmetric proximal weakness at an advanced age and should be considered in this clinical setting, especially when a history of poor exercise tolerance can be elicited.
SOME ELECTROMAGNETIC RESPONSES IN THE PROPOSED MIXED PHASE. II.

Following our first paper on a possible new electronic phase in semi-metals, we have investigated some electromagnetic responses of such a « mixed » phase. We concluded that, while a pure excitonic insulating phase might be difficult to obtain in experiments, a « mixed » phase basically superconducting in general character might be found in superconducting semi-metals. Such a system has a Meissner effect quite different from that of a type-one superconductor, in that the critical magnetic field decreases as the system goes through a super-conducting and « mixed » phase transition.
BIRD DIVERSITY COMPONENTS IN AUSTRALIAN EUCALYPTUS AND NORTH-TEMPERATE QUERCUS WOODLANDS

Abstract Diversity patterns of breeding bird assemblages (exclusive of raptors and nocturnal species) of western North American oak and Australian eucalypt woodlands are derived from data recorded at 113 census sites distributed over four regions, two on each continent. Regional species richness varies by a factor of 2 among regions. The contribution to regional species totals by various diversity components is examined: α-diversity (species richness within sites), β-diversity (species turnover between sites related to differences in vegetation structure), and γ-diversity (turnover related to distance between sites, independent of habitat change). Mean α-diversity is relatively constant among regions (mean 25.5 to 29.7 species). Variation in α-diversity within regions is related to variation in vegetation structure, and bird-density variation is best predicted by a measure of vegetation density. The relationships between bird diversity and density and vegetation structure are similar in the four regions. ...
Cytokines and HPA Axis Regulation

Compelling data has been amassed indicating that soluble factors, or cytokines, from the immune system can have profound effects on the neuroendocrine system, in particular the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. HPA activation by cytokines, in turn, has been found to play a critical role in restraining and shaping immune responses. Thus, cytokine- HPA interactions represent a fundamental consideration regarding the maintenance of homeostasis and the development of disease.
Alterations in detergent solubility of heterotrimeric G proteins after chronic activation of G(i/o)-coupled receptors: changes in detergent solubility are in correlation with onset of adenylyl cyclase superactivation.

Prolonged G(i/o) protein-coupled receptor activation has been shown to lead to receptor internalization and receptor desensitization. In addition, it is well established that although acute activation of these receptors leads to inhibition of adenylyl cyclase (AC), long-term activation results in increased AC activity (especially evident on removal of the inhibitory agonist), a phenomenon defined as AC superactivation or sensitization. Herein, we show that chronic exposure to agonists of G(i)-coupled receptors also leads to a decrease in cholate detergent solubility of G protein subunits, and that antagonist treatment after such chronic agonist exposure leads to a time-dependent reversal of the cholate insolubility. With Chinese hamster ovary and COS cells transfected with several G(i/o)-coupled receptors (i.e., mu- and kappa-opioid, and m(4)-muscarinic), we observed that although no overall change occurred in total content of G(alphai)- and beta(1)-subunits, chronic agonist treatment led to a marked reduction in the ability of 1% cholate to solubilize G(betagamma) as well as G(alphai). This solubility shift is exclusively observed with G(alphai), and was not seen with G(alphas). The disappearance and reappearance of G(alphai) and G(betagamma) subunits from and to the detergent-soluble fractions occur with similar time courses as observed for the onset and disappearance of AC superactivation. Lastly, pertussis toxin, which blocks acute and chronic agonist-induced AC inhibition and superactivation, also blocks the shift in detergent solubility. These results suggest a correlation between the solubility shift of the heterotrimeric G(i) protein and the generation of AC superactivation.
Understanding China's Healthcare Reform in a Global Context

The health care system of the People’s Republic of China has undergone significant change over the last decades. Much of the literature has focused on the internal dynamics of change. In this paper we week to understand Chinese health care reforms since the 1980s in a global context. We first examine the health care system in China from the Maoist era to the reform period. We find that the health care system in China – a self-proclaimed socialist country – has become one of the least socialist in the world. We then attempt to explain the evolution of China’s health care system in the last three decades, paying special attention to the impact of external factors on China’s policy choices. We argue that international norms and China’s development strategy vis-a-vis the global economy have profoundly shaped the its health care system.
Is toponymy necessary

Like other areas of linguistic study, toponymy as a domain of analysis does not present itself as being overly reflective of its own assumptions. I ask whether a sub-category or sub-analysis dedicated to toponymy is required at all if we analyse toponyms, landscape terms, and geographical names within the scope of general linguistic analysis (lexical semantics, morphosyntax, and phonology). Or put succinctly: Is toponymy necessary? Data from a longitudinal study of Norfolk Island and Kangaroo Island toponymy indicate there are no marked aberrancies in either sets of data which cannot be accounted for by either more general Norf’k (the Norfolk Island language) or English rules. I conclude by suggesting future studies in landscape terminology should be more mindful of the requirements of the linguistic study of toponymy, especially within lexical, morphosyntactic, and phonological concerns, rather than just within the semantic domain.
Models of Management: Work, Authority, and Organization in a Comparative Perspective

The article reviews the book ‘Models of Management: Work, Authority and Organization in a Comparative Perspective,’ by Mauro F. Guillen.
Abstract 591: Expanding the therapeutic window through pharmacological activation of the RB pathway in breast cancer treatment

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive disease that is most often treated with cytotoxic chemotherapies, such as anthracyclines and platinum compounds. While effective for certain tumors, these therapies are known to cause severe toxicities in numerous tissues. Thus, targeting pathways to both exploit therapy-sensitive tumors and ameliorate tissue toxicity is of utmost significance. Loss of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor (RB) protein is a frequent event in TNBC, and is expected to alter therapeutic sensitivity by perturbing cell cycle checkpoints and yielding a predilection towards cell death. Conversely, it is possible that the same principles that drive sensitivity to cytotoxic agents in an RB-deficient setting could be used to prevent toxicities in an RB-proficient setting (i.e. normal tissues). Thus, modulation of the RB pathway could be critical for expanding the therapeutic window in the treatment of breast cancer. To address this hypothesis, combination studies of pharmacological activation of the RB pathway and cytotoxic chemotherapies commonly used to treat TNBC were performed in vitro and in vivo. Results indicate that activation of the RB pathway can modulate the efficacy of cytotoxic compounds in the treatment of TNBC. The mechanisms behind these observations were attributed directly to RB-mediated regulation of DNA damage and repair signaling pathways, as well as apoptosis. RB-deficiency resulted in bypass of these mechanisms and thus enhanced sensitivity to cytotoxic therapies. These results were supported by in silico data demonstrating that RB-deficient TNBC is associated with better clinical outcome in response to chemotherapy. Importantly, functional studies indicated that RB pathway activation can provide protection against the toxicity of frequently used chemotherapeutic compounds in normal tissue. Combined, these studies suggest that RB pathway status could be utilized in the clinic to direct combination treatments that would exploit the sensitivity of RB-deficient tumors to cytotoxic chemotherapies while simultaneously providing protection for normal tissues. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 591. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-591
Effects of Siltuximab on tumor growth in nude mice loded by paclitaxel resistant ovarian cancer cells

Aim:To explore potential therapeutic strategies for interrupting the IL-6 signaling through this pathway,xenograft model of chemoresistance ovarian cancer cell lines (secrete high level of IL-6) was established,and evaluate Siltuximab effect on xenograft tumor growth.Methods:A total of 36 female nude mice at approximately 3 to 4 weeks of age were selected,5×106 mL-1 SKOV-3TR cells were injected subcutaneously with matrigel on the first day.Two weeks after injection,the mice were randomly divided into 6 groups.Group A was received intraperitoneal injection with normal saline,Group B with non-specific antibody F105 (20 mg/kg),and Group C with Siltuximab (20 mg/kg),Group D with paclitaxel (20 mg/kg),Group E with paclitaxel (20 mg/kg) and Siltuximab (20 mg/kg),and Group F received paclitaxel (20 mg/kg) and F105 (20 mg/kg).All six groups were treated twice a week for five weeks.The health of the mice and evidence of tumor growth were examined daily.Results:The xenograft tumor volume of the six groups had no significant difference (Fgroup=2.820,P=0.310;Ftime=3.020,P=0.230;Finteraction=2.950,P=0.280).Conclusion:Siltuximab does not have effect on paclitaxel resistant xenograft tumor growth in vivo.
The Recovery Movement: Implications For Mental Health Care And Enabling People To Participate Fully In Life

The recovery movement, which broadly recognizes the ability of people with mental illnesses to participate in the mainstream of society, stems from a confluence of factors, including longitudinal data showing that many people eventually recover from serious mental illness. Perhaps as important to the emergence and growth of the recovery movement has been the increasing role that people “in recovery” have played in advocating for person-centered care, greater self-determination for those with mental illnesses, and an enhanced focus on restoring functioning for individuals above and beyond symptom reduction. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 redefined serious forms of mental illness as disabilities, which led to the development of a range of accommodations to enable people with psychiatric disabilities to live in their own homes, work, go to school, and perform other normative adult roles such as parent and parishioner even while suffering symptoms. The Affordable Care Act provides additional leve...
Clinical Pharmacology of Systemic Chemotherapeutic Agents in Skin Neoplasms

Considerable progress recently has been made in the systemic chemotherapy of disseminated skin neoplasms. Several agents are particularly useful in this regard: the nitrosoureas, methotrexate, actinomycin D, and dacarbazine. This paper reviews their pharmacologic disposition in man. The nitrosoureas have short plasma half-lives; however, they are extensively degraded to metabolites that persist in the body, and are only slowly excreted. Highly soluble in lipids, the nitrosoureas penetrate significantly into the central nervous system. Actinomycin D is only minimally metabolized in vivo; its elimination from the plasma shows a prolonged slow phase with a half-life of 36 hours; but its excretion is even slower than expected about 30% in a week. A potent inhibitor of dihydrofolate reductase, methotrexate exhibits a multiphasic plasma disappearance, and accumulates in tissues with high dihydrofolate reductase activities. At the normal therapeutic dosages, methotrexate is eliminated by the kidneys as the unchanged drug; appropriate dosage modifications are mandatory if renal function is compromised. Dacarbazine has a relatively short plasma half-life, and is rapidly excreted partly as the unchanged drug; it undergoes extensive biotransformation in the body. Like other antitumor agents, these drugs may cause gastrointestinal toxicities and myelosuppression; in addition each drug can have its own individual organ toxicity.
Dual Column Chromatographic Method for Determination of N-Nitrosothiazolidine in Fried Bacon

A dual column chromatographic procedure is described that permits the determination of N-nitrosothiazolidine (NTHZ), a newly identified nitrosamine, and N-nitrosopyrrolidine (NPYR), the principal volatile nitrosamine, in the same fried bacon sample. The procedure used an acid-Celite, Celite, sodium sulfate column followed by a partially deactivated basic alumina column to isolate NTHZ from bacon for subsequent quantitation by gas chromatography with a thermal energy analyzer (GC-TEA). A limited intralaboratory study gave standard deviations for repeatability and reproducibility of 1.20 and 1.55 ppb, respectively. The recovery of N-nitrosothiomorpholine, the internal standard added at the 10 ppb level, was 93.3 +/- 6.03%. The method is also free from artifactual nitrosamine formation.
Mahvash disease: an autosomal recessive hereditary pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor syndrome

Mahvash disease is a rare autosomal recessive hereditary pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor syndrome characterized by inactivating mutations in the glucagon receptor, hyperglucagonemia without symptoms of the glucagonoma syndrome, pancreatic α-cell hyperplasia and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. In Mahvash disease, the lack of negative feedback from glucagon receptor signaling results in compensatory hyperplasia of pancreatic α-cells and secondary tumorigenesis. Over ten clinical cases consistent with Mahvash disease have been reported thus far, most of which have confirmed biallelic mutations in the glucagon receptor. Mahvash disease provides insight into glucagon signaling pathway regulation and pathogenesis of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.