cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear stability analysis for a class of differential-integral systems arising from nuclear reactor dynamics

A nonlinear stability analysis has been performed for mixed differential-integral equations particularly applicable to nuclear reactors. New general theorems of stability in bounded domains of initial perturbations have been introduced for a class of reactor models with an arbitrary reactivity feedback. Also, effective stability criteria have been established for reactors with linear reactivity feedbacks. For many kinds of models of phenomena typically encountered in nuclear reactors, these new criteria give sharper stability bounds than criteria previously published. The theoretical results obtained have been illustrated with examples of selected reactor models.
Composition and Structure of as-Deposited and Oxidized Dcs-Based Cvd WsiX Films

CVD WSix films have been widely employed for ultra thin gate and bit-line applications. Recently, for sub 0.5 μm technologies based on CVD WSix polycide gates and interconnects, efforts have been made to replace the silane-based deposition chemistry with that based on dichlorosilane (DCS) reduction of tungsten hexafluoride (WF6). Fluorine-contaminated gate oxides and poor film adhesion and cracking (especially after high temperature annealing/oxidation) are main characteristics of silane-based WSix which could be detrimental for fine geometries of sub 0.5 im technologies. In this paper, the composition and structure of DCS-based CVD WSix films were studied. WSix films were deposited on 200 mm, implanted polysilicon substrates; silicide film thickness ranging from 60 to 200nm. A high temperature furnace anneal and oxidation cycle was used to examine post-oxidation film properties. SIMS, RBS and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to determine film composition profile, structure and texture on both as-deposited and annealed/oxidized films. Si/W uniformity through the depth of the film, for both W-rich and Si-rich interfaces, and its impact on film adhesion and cracking were studied. Also, WSix step coverage for sub 0.5 μm polycide topographies were examined.
Chondrogenic potential of progenitor cells derived from human bone marrow and adipose tissue: A patient-matched comparison

Abstract Purpose Stem cell-based tissue engineering represents a possible alternative for the repair of cartilage defects. Both bone marrow and adipose tissue contain pluripotential cells capable of chondrogenesis. This study was a qualitative and quantitative comparison of the chondrogenic potential of progenitor cells isolated from bone marrow aspirates and adipose tissue. Methods Bone marrow aspirates (BM) and matching adipose tissue (AD) overlying the posterior superior iliac crest were obtained from patients undergoing elective spine surgery. Chondrogenesis was induced using an established aggregate culture technique. Qualitative analysis was performed by histology and immunohistochemistry. DNA and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) quantitative assays were performed. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis was performed to compare expression of type II collagen between BM and AD aggregates. Osteogenic and adipogenic assays were also performed to confirm pluripotentiality of both AD-derived progenitor cells (ADPC) and BM-derived progenitor cells (BMPC). Results Toluidine blue metachromasia and type II collagen immunohistochemical staining were more extensive in the aggregates formed by BMPC. Quantitative RT-PCR showed a 500–5000 fold higher expression of type II collagen in the BMPC aggregates. The DNA content was 68% higher in the AD aggregates (p Conclusions The tissue formed by the aggregate culture of the expanded ADPC population was less cartilaginous. It is unclear whether this is because there are fewer chondroprogenitor cells or if the monolayer expansion culture favors cells with higher proliferative rates but without differentiation potential. Under the conditions described in this study, BMPCs may represent a better choice for progenitor cell-based strategies for cartilage repair.
The changing pattern of infective endocarditis in childhood

Abstract Forty-eight cases of infective endocarditis (IE) that occurred in 42 patients with congenital heart disease were reviewed from 1970 through 1990 and were compared with a 20-year review of 108 cases diagnosed between 1953 and 1972. The review demonstrates that the natural history of IE in children has changed over the last 2 decades, with half of the cases occurring after surgery for congenital heart disease. In the postoperative group, 46% of patients had undergone. valve replacement and 7 of these (29%) had a right ventricular to pulmonary artery valved conduit as the site for IE, suggesting significant additional risk in this setting. Among patients with nonsurgically treated congenital heart disease and IE, mitral valve prolapse has emerged as an important underlying heart lesion occurring in 29% of patients. The bacterial spectrum has shifted, with a significant increase in the incidence of uncommon causative organisms. Mortality has continued to decline with survivorship. of 90% in this series.
Syn-gas generation in the absence of oxygen and isotopic exchange reactions over Rh & Pt/doped-ceria catalysts

Abstract Syn-gas generation in the absence of oxygen by methane decomposition offers an interesting route to decrease reactor size and cost because methane is the only reactant in the gas phase. In this work, several catalysts were studied, Rh/CeO 2 , Pt/CeO 2 , Rh/(Ce 0.91 Gd 0.09 )O 2− x , Pt/(Ce 0.91 Gd 0.09 )O 2− x , Rh/γ-Al 2 O 3 and Pt/γ-Al 2 O 3 for methane reforming in the absence of gaseous oxygen. Rhodium showed a superior catalytic activity and selectivity with respect to Pt. This catalytic behavior may be due to the strong metal-support interaction, associated with the formation of mixed metal–oxide species at the interface. The addition of Gd 3+ to ceria lowered the required temperatures for catalyst activation with respect to the un-doped material. Conversely to oxygen ion conducting materials, which showed a high selectivity for syn-gas generation, the non-oxygen conducting catalysts did not generated carbon monoxide. These results may be correlated to their oxygen storage capacity and ionic conductivity. Since gaseous oxygen was not delivered to the reactor, it is clear that the only source of oxygen was the catalyst. During the isothermal isotopic oxygen exchange experiments over Pt/(Ce 0.91 Gd 0.09 )O 2− x and Pt/γ-Al 2 O 3 , results illustrated that oxygen in the gas phase was exchanged with the oxygen from the catalyst. Three different molecules were detected 16 O– 18 O, 16 O– 16 O and 18 O 18 O. A higher amount of oxygen was exchanged over Pt/(Ce 0.91 Gd 0.09 )O 2− x with respect to Pt/γ-Al 2 O 3 . It is proposed that mainly lattice and surface oxygen were exchanged over Pt/(Ce 0.91 Gd 0.09 )O 2– x and Pt/γ-Al 2 O 3 , respectively. It is also suggested that two types of reaction mechanisms take place, the simple and multiple hetero-exchange with the participation of one and two catalyst oxygen atoms, respectively. Similarly to methane reforming, lower temperatures were required for the oxygen exchange experiments over Rh than over Pt, as illustrated by results of the temperature-programmed exchange reactions. In summary, the properties of doped ceria may open new catalytic routes for oxidation reactions without gaseous oxygen because post-oxidation can restore its oxygen storage capacity.
Depletion models for ecosystems with continuously delayed resource renewals

Abstract We study the following equations for a two-level ecosystem consisting of primary resources and grazing consumers: (1) An augmented logistic equation x (t) = rx(t) [ 1 - x(t) k[1 - D(t)] ] - u(t)x(t) , where x > 0 is grazer biomass (e.g. fish or reindeer), u ⩾ 0 is a per-unit- x harvest rate, and 0 r K D ( t ) represents the fractional depletion at time t of the renewable resource (e.g., algae or grass). Thus 0 ⩽ D K is reduced to K [1 - D ( t )]. (2) A depletion equation D(t) = ∫ -∞ t F[x(τ)] 1 + bD(τ) P(t - τ)dτ where F [ x ( τ )] is the rate at which x ( τ ) is increasing D ( τ ) at time τ, and P ( t - τ ), 0 ⩽ P ⩽ 1, is the fraction of the depletion incurred at τ that is still unrenewed at t . (3) A discounted harvesting function J = ∫ 0 ∞ e -δt [ s - k x(t) ] u(t)x(t)dt to be maximized subject to (I) and (II). s is revenue per-unit harvested biomass, and k x(t) is the per-unit cost of harvesting biomass at the stock level x(t). [s - k x(t) ] > 0 for all x ( t ) of interest. We prove that (I), with u =0, and (II) are unstable about their unique nontrivial equilibrium point under perturbations of the integral factor in the D (t) equation, for all 0 L D ( t ) and x(ϴ), t - L ⩽ ϴ ⩽ t . Our interpretation of the instability is that under certain conditions, events such as grass fires, algal dieoffs, and resource stocking could destabilize an otherwise stably equilibrated system. We solve two general problems associated with (III): in the first, the asymptotic x , D , and u are found for (III) when L = 0; and in the second, 0 L u results from including D 's delay dynamics.
Teaching computer science with robotics using Ada/Mindstorms 2.0

We present one approach to teaching basic computer science concepts with robotics, using an Ada interface to Lego Mindstorms™. We show simple problems put to students with no programming experience, discuss the solutions, and for each concept explain the advantages of using robots to teach it.
Seasonal modulation of luteinizing-hormone secretion in female rhesus monkeys.

The seasonal restriction of ovulations in rhesus monkeys is thought to be due to enhanced estradiol (E2)-negative feedback suppression of luteinizing hormone (LH) during the spring and summer anovulatory months. This hypothesis was examined in seven ovariectomized monkeys housed in an outdoor environment and treated with various doses of E2 in a counterbalanced design during both the anovulatory season (May-Jul) and the breeding season (Sep-Nov). Subcutaneous implants of E2 produced levels that mimicked late follicular (LF-100 pg/ml) or periovulatory concentrations (PO-190 pg/ml). Analyses of twice weekly serum samples revealed that during the period of no E2 treatment (NT), basal levels of bioactive LH were significantly lower in the summer than the fall. Although treatment with both doses of E2 lowered basal LH levels during both seasons, the decrease in LH was significantly greater during the summer. Samples collected at 15-min intervals for 2 h revealed that during NT, LH pulses were significantly slower during the summer than in the fall, whereas pulse amplitude did not differ between seasons. Treatment with both doses of E2 either abolished or significantly reduced both LH pulse amplitude and frequency in the summer. In contrast, LH pulses during the fall were not affected by E2 treatment. Response to treatment with LH-releasing hormone (5 micrograms/kg i.v.) revealed that release was significantly reduced during E2 treatment in the summer. These data indicate that seasonal changes in the environment influence both nongonadal control and E2-negative feedback inhibition of LH secretion. The reduced ability of E2 to maximally suppress LH release in the fall can thus account for the seasonally delimited pattern of ovulations observed in rhesus monkeys.
Early selection of novel triploid hybrids of shrub willow with improved biomass yield relative to diploids

Genetic improvement of shrub willow (Salix), a perennial energy crop common to temperate climates, has led to the development of new cultivars with improved biomass yield, pest and disease resistance, and biomass composition suitable for bioenergy applications. These improvements have largely been associated with species hybridization, yet little is known about the genetic mechanisms responsible for improved yield and performance of certain willow species hybrids. The top performing genotypes in this study, representing advanced pedigrees compared with those in previous studies, were mostly triploid in nature and outperformed current commercial cultivars. Of the genotypes studied, the diploids had the lowest mean yield of 8.29 oven dry Mg ha−1 yr−1, while triploids yielded 12.65 Mg ha−1 yr−1, with the top five producing over 16 Mg ha−1 yr−1. Triploids had high stem area and height across all three years of growth in addition to greatest specific gravity. The lowest specific gravity was observed among the tetraploid genotypes. Height was the early trait most correlated with and the best predictor of third-year yield. These results establish a paradigm for future breeding and improvement of Salix bioenergy crops based on the development of triploid species hybrids. Stem height and total stem area are effective traits for early prediction of relative yield performance.
An Introduction to Mathematical Logic and Type Theory: To Truth Through Proof

This introduction to mathematical logic starts with propositional calculus and first-order logic. Topics covered include syntax, semantics, soundness, completeness, independence, normal forms, vertical paths through negation normal formulas, compactness, Smullyan's Unifying Principle, natural deduction, cut-elimination, semantic tableaux, Skolemization, Herbrand's Theorem, unification, duality, interpolation, and definability. The last three chapters of the book provide an introduction to type theory (higher-order logic). It is shown how various mathematical concepts can be formalized in this very expressive formal language. This expressive notation facilitates proofs of the classical incompleteness and undecidability theorems which are very elegant and easy to understand. The discussion of semantics makes clear the important distinction between standard and nonstandard models which is so important in understanding puzzling phenomena such as the incompleteness theorems and Skolem's Paradox about countable models of set theory. Some of the numerous exercises require giving formal proofs. A computer program called ETPS which is available from the web facilitates doing and checking such exercises. Audience: This volume will be of interest to mathematicians, computer scientists, and philosophers in universities, as well as to computer scientists in industry who wish to use higher-order logic for hardware and software specification and verification.
Neurotrophin releasing single and multiple lumen nerve conduits

Tissue engineering strategies for nerve repair employ polymer conduits termed guidance channels and bridges to promote regeneration for peripheral nerve injury and spinal cord injury, respectively. An approach for fabrication of nerve conduits with single and multiple lumens capable of controlled release of neurotrophic factors was developed. These conduits were fabricated from a mixture of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLG) microspheres and porogen (NaCl) that was loaded into a mold and processed by gas foaming. The porosity and mechanical properties of the constructs were regulated by the ratio of porogen to polymer microsphere. The neurotrophin, nerve growth factor (NGF), was incorporated into the conduit by either mixing the protein with microspheres or encapsulating the protein within microspheres prior to gas foaming. A sustained release was observed for at least 42 days, with the release rate controlled by method of incorporation and polymer molecular weight. Released NGF retained its bioactivity, as demonstrated by its ability to stimulate neurite outgrowth from primary dorsal root ganglion (DRG). In vivo results indicate that conduits retain their original architecture, and allow for cellular infiltration into the channels. Polymer conduits with controllable lumen diameters and protein release may enhance nerve regeneration by guiding and stimulating neurite outgrowth.
Asymptomatic giant cardiac fibroma presenting as mitral valve prolapse in an adult patient

A 61 year old woman with a newly diagnosed heart murmur underwent an echocardiogram showing an intramyocardial mass and mitral valve prolapse (Panel A and Panel B). A computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest revealed a round mass in the left chest contiguous with the myocardium of the left lateral wall and no significant mass effect on the cardiac chambers (Panel C). Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) revealed a myocardial mass measuring 6 9 5 9 8 cm with well-defined borders beginning at the level of the left atrium, involving the posterior leaflet of the mitral valve and extending to the basal and mid lateral and inferior walls of the left ventricle (Panel D and Panel E). There was no signal enhancement on T2 weighted images (Panel F) and no fat seen on fat saturation sequences (Panel G). The mass appeared to enhance similar to the normal myocardium on first pass perfusion imaging and exhibited marked homogenous delayed Gadolinium enhancement on inversion recovery sequences (Panel H and Panel I). The patient initially underwent an endomyocardial biopsy via right femoral artery under trans-esophageal echocardiogram (TEE) guidance which was unsuccessful, and was later converted to an open thoracoscopic myocardial biopsy. (Panel J). Histological analysis of the biopsied sample revealed bland spindle cells and cardiac myoctes at edge, confirming the diagnosis as cardiac fibroma (Panel K and Panel L) (Fig 1). Cardiac fibromas are rare, benign, intramyocardial tumors that make up 15 % of benign cardiac tumors in children and 3 % of all benign cardiac tumors in adults, with a mean age at presentation of 13 years [1]. Most fibromas originate in the left ventricular free wall or intraventricular septum with symptoms and clinical presentation varying according to the size and the location of the tumor. Common presentations include chest discomfort, syncope, heart failure, cyanosis, arrhythmias or even sudden death but approximately one-third of the patients are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally on imaging studies [2]. The management of asymptomatic patients, such as our patient is challenging; clinicians have to weigh the risk of surgical resection of the tumor to the benefit of conservative management. In our patient conservative management was elected with close follow-up and referral for evaluation for a heart transplant.
Extremal connectivity and vulnerability in graphs

If a practical network is modelled as a graph in which the lines are perfect but the points may fail then a primary measure of vulnerability is the point connectivity of the graph and one possible secondary measure of vulnerability is the number of minimum point disconnecting sets. The graph shold have the maximum possible point connectivity and the minimum number of point disconnecting sets. A lower bound for the number of minimum point disconnecting sets is derived by identifying points with identical adjacencies.
C.M.R.R. analysis of the 3-op-amp instrumentation amplifier

The c.m.r.r. performance of the 3-op-amp instrumentation amplifier is analysed and shown to be, in general, no better than that of a single-op-amp differential amplifier. Only under rather special conditions does the more elaborate amplifier have a c.m.r.r. advantage.
Kinetics of the radiation—induced polymerization of styrene in emulsion

Abstract The kinetics of the radiation-induced polymerization of styrene in emulsion have been reexamined in a system which obeys the simple Case II smith—Ewart kinetics with potassium persulfate initiation. The discrepancies found with other radiation emulsion systems were found to disappear and close agreement with the idealized simple theory was found. The rate constants for propagation and the corresponding activation energy were found to be close to those reported in the literature. The termination rate constants were much smaller than the literature values for liquid systems but close to those reported for both chemicaland radiation-initiated emulsion systems. The lower values have been attributed to the higher viscosities encountered in the monomer—polymer particles. The efficiences of the radicals both in initiating polymerization and in creating the number of monomer—polymer particles were found to be in the range of 0.3–0.5. The reasons for the low efficiences are not clear but are consistent with results obtained by other investigators.
A graphical interface for robotic remediation of underground storage tanks

Sensor-rich, intelligent robots that function with respect to models of their environment have significant potential to reduce the time and cost for the cleanup of hazardous waste while increasing operator safety. An animated graphical interface allows operators to easily and safely program such robots. Sandia National Laboratories is performing experimental investigations into the application of intelligent robot control technology to the problem of removing waste stored in tanks. This paper describes the experimental environment employed at Sandia with particular attention to the hardware and software control environment, and the graphical interface. Intelligent system control is achieved through the integration of extensive geometric and kinematic world models with realtime sensor based control. All operator interactions with the system are through fully animated, graphical representations which validate all operator commands before execution to provide for safe operation. Sensing is used to add information to the robot system's world model and to allow sensor based servo control during selected operations. The results of a first Critical Features Test are reported and the potential for applying advanced intelligent control concepts to the removal of waste in storage tanks is discussed.
Same‐Sex Marriage and Negative Externalities*

Objectives. Conventional theory regarding externalities and personal choices implies that in the absence of negative externalities, there is no economic rationale for government to regulate or ban those choices. We evaluate whether legally recognizing (or prohibiting) same-sex marriage has any adverse impact on societal outcomes specifically related to “traditional family values.” Methods. Using data from 1990 to 2004 in the U.S. states, with statistical controls appropriate for the particular model, and with fixed effects, we test the claim of the Family Research Council that same-sex marriage will have negative impacts on marriage, divorce, abortion rates, the proportion of children born to single women, and the percent of children in female-headed households. Results. We find no statistically significant adverse effect from allowing gay marriage. Bans on gay marriage, when they are not overturned, appear to be associated with a lower abortion rate and a lower percentage of children in female-headed households. However, allowing gay marriage also shows the same or stronger associations. Conclusions. The argument that same-sex marriage poses a negative externality on society cannot be rationally held. Although many might believe that this conclusion is so obvious that it does not warrant testing, many politicians use this argument as a fact-based rationale to legitimize bans on same-sex marriage.
Universal adhesive-free Fit-to-Flow microfluidic connections

World-to-chip (macro-to-micro) interface continues to be one of the most complicated, ineffective, and unreliable components in the development of emerging μTAS involving integrated microfluidic operations. In this paper, we present standardized adhesive-free microfluidic interfaces, referred to as Fit-to-Flow (F2F) connections, using two physical mechanisms to achieve hermetic seal performance (up to 336 kPa), high-density 2D tube-packaging (1 tube/mm2), self-aligned plug-in (10.7 µm), and applicability to broad fluidic chip platforms. A 3D microfluidic mixer and a 6-level chemical gradient generator have been devised to illustrate the applicability of the universal fluidic connections to classic microfluidic operations.
Major histocompatibility (B) complex control of responses against Rous sarcomas

The chicken major histocompatibility (B) complex (MHC) affects disease outcome significantly. One of the best characterized systems of MHC control is the response to the oncogenic retrovirus, Rous sarcoma virus (RSV). Genetic selection altered the tumor growth pattern, either regressively or progressively, with the data suggesting control by one or a few loci. Particular MHC genotypes determine RSV tumor regression or progression indicating the crucial B complex role in Rous sarcoma outcome. Analysis of inbred lines, their crosses, congenic lines, and noninbred populations has revealed the anti-RSV response of many B complex haplotypes. Tumor growth disparity among lines identical at the MHC but differing in their background genes suggested a non-MHC gene contribution to tumor fate. Genetic complementation in tumor growth has also been demonstrated for MHC and non-MHC genes. RSV tumor expansion reflects both tumor cell proliferation and viral replication generating new tumor cells. In addition, the B complex controls tumor growth induced by a subviral DNA construct encoding only the RSV v-src oncogene. Immunity to subsequent tumors and metastasis also exhibit MHC control. Genotypes that regressed either RSV or v-src DNA primary tumors had enhanced protection against subsequent homologous challenge. Regressor B genotypes had lower tumor metastasis compared with progressor types. Together, the data indicate that B complex control of RSV tumor fate is strongly defined by the response to a v-src-determined function. Differential RSV tumor outcomes among various B genotypes may include immune recognition of a tumor-specific antigen or immune system influences on viral replication.
A Unique Mechanism for Innate Cytokine Promotion of T Cell Responses to Viral Infections

The kinetics of CD8 T cell IFN-γ responses as they occur in situ are defined here during lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infections, and a unique mechanism for the innate cytokines IFN-αβ and IL-18 in promoting these responses is defined. Infections of mice with Armstrong or WE strains of LCMV induced an unexpectedly early day 4 IFN-γ response detectable in serum samples and spleen and liver homogenates. Production of IFN-γ was MHC class I/CD8 dependent, but did not require IL-12, NK cells, TCR-γδ T cells, MHC class II, or CD4 T cells. Peak response required specific Ag recognition, as administration of antagonist peptide partially impaired day 4 IFN-γ induction, and viral peptide stimulation enhanced CD8 T cell IFN-γ expression in culture. The IFN-γ response was associated with IL-18 and IFN-αβ expression. Furthermore, both factors augmented peptide-driven IFN-γ production in culture, and mice lacking IL-18 or IFN-αβ functions had reduced day 4 IFN-γ. Collectively, these results demonstrate that during viral infections, there is a dramatic in vivo CD8 T cell response preceding maximal expansion of these cells, and that the mechanism supporting this response is dependent on endogenous innate cytokines. Because stimulation by microbial products is linked to innate cytokine expression, the studies also suggest a pathway for precisely limiting T cell functions to times of need.
Studies on Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate Reductase of Spinach Chloroplasts

The enzyme NADP+ reductase from spinach chloroplasts was studied by various methods of enzymology and protein chemistry. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate showed the polypeptide molecular weight to be 37,000, a value which is almost exactly the same as the minimum molecular weight per FAD, so the enzyme has one FAD per polypeptide chain. Considering the previously reported sedimentation coefficients, the enzyme is probably a monomer. The copper protein plastocyanin, also from spinach was studied by the same method and found to have a polypeptide molecular weight of 10,000, which is the same as the previously reported minimum weight per copper and half the value previously determined by sedimentation, so plastocyanin is a dimer with one copper per polypeptide. The effect of pH and ionic strength on a reaction catalyzed by NADP+ reductase has been studied. The Km for NADPH showed the effects of ionizations at pH 6.3 and 8.9, the former assigned to the substrate and the latter to the enzyme. Vmax was relatively pH-independent from pH 4.5 to 10.5. Km increased linearly with increasing ionic strength. The rates of inactivation of the enzyme by various reagents specific for sulfhydryl groups have been determined. The inactivation was slow compared to other sulfhydryl enzymes, but could be accelerated by NADPH or retarded by NADP+. The inactivation was accompanied by the slower dissociation of the FAD. The inactivation could be reversed by sulfhydryl compounds, but only before the dissociation of FAD occurred. By the use of Ellmann's reagent in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate, the enzyme has been found to have a total of eight sulfhydryls, none of which are reactive in the absence of the denaturant. The flavin of NADP+ reductase has been titrated with NADPH, dithionite, and methyl viologen, and photoreduced with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid as the electron donor. Below pH 9, the NADPH titration produced a semiquinone intermediate form. The NADPH titration above pH 9 and the other methods of titration produced no semiquinone. The reduction potentials for the 1-electron reduction to the semiquinone or the 2-electron reduction directly to the fully reduced form of the flavin were determined. At pH 7, the potentials for the 1-electron steps for the reduction of oxidized to semiquinone and semiquinone to fully reduced forms of the enzyme are -0.32 and -0.40 volt, respectively, values which are intermediate between the potentials of ferredoxin and NADP+.
Synthesis of New Multifunctional Polymers inCorporating BIS-(Diphenylamino)Diphenylpolyene Moieties

A series of bis-(diphenylamino)diphenylpolyenes containing up to eight double bonds has been synthesized, both as parent model compounds, and functionalized for attachment as pendant chromophores. Oxidative doping of these new materials yields exceptionally stable bipolaronlike dications, even at the triene level. These new materials show promise as bimechanistic optical limiters by reverse saturable absorption and by 2-photon absorption.
How the Powerful Decide: Access to Research Participation by those at the Margins

How do those in power decide to include and exclude those at the margins from community life? We used simulated review of research vignettes to examine how researchers and members of Institutional Review Boards make decisions concerning the research participation of adults with and without intellectual disabilities. Results indicate that decision-makers are influenced by the disability status of the sample, characteristics of the research in which they are engaged, and their attitudes toward the research participation of adults with intellectual disabilities as well as their own relationship to the research process. For example, decision-makers may create situations that limit the self-determination of adults with intellectual disabilities and adults without disabilities within the research context, particularly when the research poses some risk of harm to participants. Implications for theory, action and research are explored.
Breakdown statistics for XLPE containing the volatile by-products of the cross-linking reaction

AC and impulse breakdown strengths have been measured on recessed samples of cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) containing controlled amounts of the by-products (or residues) of the crosslinking reaction, i.e. acetophenone, cumyl alcohol, alpha methyl styrene, and cumene. The statistics used to describe the distribution of breakdown strengths are discussed. Weibull, Gumbel, and Gaussian statistics are compared. Other statistical distributions resulting from fluctuations in the character of the discharge sites at the metal-polymer interface are also examined. Despite the fact that a simple weakest link mechanism cannot be used to describe the breakdown strengths of recessed samples of XLPE containing the crosslinking residues, no reason has been found to discard the Weibull distribution. The results of this investigation can therefore be presented in tables of characteristics values and shape parameters. >
Modeling and analysis of 2D service differentiation on e-commerce servers

A scalable e-commerce server should be able to provide different levels of quality of service (QoS) to different types of requests according to clients' navigation patterns and the server capacity. In this paper, we propose a two-dimensional (2D) service differentiation (DiffServ) model for online transactions: inter-session and intra-session. The inter-session model aims to provide different levels of QoS to sessions from different customer classes, and the intra-session model aims to provide different levels of QoS to requests in different states of a session. We introduce service slowdown as a QoS metric of e-commerce servers. It is defined as the weighted sum of request slowdown in different sessions and in different session states. We formulate the problem of 2D DiffServ provisioning as an optimization of processing rate allocation with the objective of minimizing service slowdown. We derive the optimal allocations for an M/G/1 server under various server load conditions and prove that the optimal allocations guarantees requests' slowdown to be square-root proportional to their pre-specified differentiation weights in both dimensions. We evaluate the optimal allocation scheme via extensive simulations and compare it with a tailored proportional DiffServ scheme. Simulation results validate that both allocation schemes can achieve predictable, controllable, and fair 2D slowdown differentiation on e-commerce servers. The optimal allocation scheme guarantees 2D DiffServ at a minimum cost of service slowdown.
THE EFFECT OF ALUMINA ON THE DEVITRIFICATION OF A SODA‐LIME‐SILICA GLASS1

The effect of magnesia on the devitrifimtion of a certain soda-lime-silica glass has been ascertained. The initial glass had a composition 1.15Na2O.0.84CaO.6SiO2, and tridymite separated as primary phase. On substitution of MgO for CaO, tridymite remained primary phase, and the melting point was lowered, but the curve shows double inflection. Addition of 2% of MgO lowered the melting point almost 200°, with the glass passing from the field of tridymite to that of Na2O.3CaO.6SiO2, but with more than 3%, MgO diopside became the primary phase, and the melting point rapidly increased.
Liquid-Phase Detection of Organophosphate Pesticides Using Guided SH-SAW Sensor

It has been established that a polymer-coated SH-SAW sensor on 36deg rotated Y-cut LiTaO3 is a very sensitive platform for direct liquid-phase chemical sensing. In this work, two partially selective coatings, poly(epichlorohydrin) and polyurethane are investigated for the detection of organophosphate pesticides (phosmet and parathion) in aqueous solutions. Moreover, in order to meet the need for sensitive and selective chemical detection systems, novel signal processing techniques are employed in the detection process. First, the sensor response is modeled in terms of all relevant contributions (mass loading and viscoelasticity) using a state-space approach. Transient information, often unique to a given analyte/coating pair, is then extracted using nonlinear estimation theory and used to distinguish between chemical species, explain observed sensor responses, and decrease detection time. A detection limit in the ppb range can be achieved from the current experimental measurements.
Thoughts on the surgical management of spina bifida cystica

The degree of paralysis in spina bifida cystica depends more on the nature and level of the lesion than on the way it is treated; reports of an improvement in the neurological state of infants treated by immediate as against delayed repair have not been confirmed. Ventriculo-atrial drainage, however, is a real advance in the treatment of the hydrocephalus which often accompanies severe spina bifida, If the survivors of the author's series of cases are typical, about 145 places in schools for physically handicapped children will be required per million of population. The intelligence of those who did not develop hydrocephalus is normally distributed. The average I. Q. of the hydrocephalic survivors is about 80.
Nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae-Induced MyD88 Short Expression Is Regulated by Positive IKKβ and CREB Pathways and Negative ERK1/2 Pathway

Airway diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are characterized by excessive inflammation and are exacerbated by nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi). Airway epithelial cells mount the initial innate immune responses to invading pathogens and thus modulate inflammation. While inflammation is necessary to eliminate a pathogen, excessive inflammation can cause damage to the host tissue. Therefore, the inflammatory response must be tightly regulated and deciphering the signaling pathways involved in this response will enhance our understanding of the regulation of the host inflammatory response. NTHi binds to TLR2 and signal propagation requires the adaptor molecule myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88). An alternative spliced form of MyD88 is called MyD88 short (MyD88s) and has been identified in macrophages and embryonic cell lines as a negative regulator of inflammation. However, the role of MyD88s in NTHi-induced inflammation in airway epithelial cells remains unknown. Here we show that NTHi induces MyD88s expression and MyD88s is a negative regulator of inflammation in airway epithelial cells. We further demonstrate that MyD88s is positively regulated by IKKβ and CREB and negatively regulated by ERK1/2 signaling pathways. Taken together these data indicate that airway inflammation is controlled in a negative feedback manner involving MyD88s and suggest that airway epithelial cells are essential to maintain immune homeostasis.
Displaying radiation exposure and cost information at order entry for outpatient diagnostic imaging: a strategy to inform clinician ordering

Background Displaying radiation exposure and cost information at electronic order entry may encourage clinicians to consider the value of diagnostic imaging. Methods An urban safety-net health system displayed radiation exposure information for CT and cost information for CT, MRI and ultrasound on an electronic referral system for outpatient ordering. We assessed whether there were differences in numbers of outpatient CT scans and MRIs per month relative to ultrasounds before and after the intervention, and evaluated primary care clinicians’ responses to the intervention. Results There were 23 171 outpatient CTs, 15 052 MRIs and 43 266 ultrasounds from 2011 to 2014. The ratio of CTs to ultrasounds decreased by 15% (95% CI 9% to 21%), from 58.2 to 49.6 CTs per 100 ultrasounds; the ratio of MRIs to ultrasounds declined by 13% (95% CI 7% to 19%), from 37.5 to 32.5 per 100. Of 300 invited, 190 (63%) completed the web-based survey in 17 clinics. 154 (81%) noticed the radiation exposure information and 158 (83.2%) noticed the cost information. Clinicians believed radiation exposure information was more influential than cost information: when unsure clinically about ordering a test (radiation=69.7%; cost=46.4%), when a patient wanted a test not clinically indicated (radiation=77.5%; cost=54.8%), when they had a choice between imaging modalities (radiation=77.9%; cost=66.6%), in patient care discussions (radiation=71.9%; cost=43.2%) and in trainee discussions (radiation=56.5%; cost=53.7%). Resident physicians and nurse practitioners were more likely to report that the cost information influenced them (p Conclusions Displaying radiation exposure and cost information at order entry may improve clinician awareness about diagnostic imaging safety risks and costs. More clinicians reported the radiation information influenced their clinical practice.
Application of Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis to Subtyping of Legionella pneumophila Serogroup 6

One patient isolate and one environmental isolate of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 6 were obtained from an outbreak investigation associated with a whirlpool spa, in which 2 cases of Legionnaires' disease and 10 cases of Pontiac fever were diagnosed. The authors used amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis to type the patient and environmental isolates. They compared the patterns obtained from the outbreak-related strains with the electrophoretic types obtained from 48 strains analyzed by multilocus enzyme electrophoreis (MLEE). The previous analysis by MLEE had grouped the 48 unrelated strains of serogroup 6 in to 11 electrophoretic types. L. pneumophila serogroup 6 strains Chicago 2, Johannesburg 5, Albany 1, Oxford 1, SRP 39, Denver 3, Sydney 1, LD 82-683, ED 38, and Vasteras 57/1, the whirlpool and patient isolates, were selected for evaluation of the AFLP technique on the basis of previous subtyping performed by MLEE. Analysis of fragment sizes by agarose gel electrophoresis indicated that the patient and environmental strains were identical; however the 10 unique strains were divided into 7 patterns. By incorporating a fluorescent primer and separating the fragments with the ABI 310, all 10 unrelated strains could be shown to have unique patterns that were separate from the patient and environmental strains. An advantage of AFLP compared with pulsed-field gel electrophoresis or MLEE is that it is easier to perform and less time-consuming.
Subprime: Real Estate Frauds, Mortgage Frauds and Legal Certainty

This paper was presented to the Italian Civil Law Notaries at their conference in Turin Italy. It responds to their concerns about the subprime crisis in the United States which is negatively affecting Italian investors. Part I of the article explains commodificaiton of real estate including mortgages and REITs; explains the funciton of mortgage backed securities, collateralized debt obligations (CDO) and securitization of real estate debt. Part II describes the history of the subprime loans in the United States, including predatory lending and ascribes fault to the absence of adequate regulation.
Applying Case-Based Reasoning to Mechanical Bearing Design

Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) provides a promising methodology for solving many complex engineering design problems. CBR is based on the idea that past problem-solving experiences can be reused and learned from in solving new problems. This paper presents an overview of a CBR design system to assist human engineers in performing mechanical bearing design. It retrieves previously designed cases from a case-base and uses adaptation techniques to adapt them to satisfy the current problem requirements. Our approach combines parametric adaptations and constraint satisfaction adaptations. The technique of parametric adaptation considers not only parameter substitution, but also the interrelationships between the problem definition and its solution. The technique of constraint satisfaction adaptation provides a method to globally check the design requirements to assess case adaptability. Currently, our system has been tested in the rolling bearing domain.
Comparison of Respiratory Abnormalities in Epileptic vs. Non-Epileptic Seizures (P07.169)

OBJECTIVE: To compare major respiratory and cardiac parameters in association with epileptic (ES) versus non-epileptic seizures (NES). BACKGROUND: Respiratory dysfunction is frequently seen in association with epileptic-seizures and may be a contributing factor to the higher risk of unexpected death. However, the presence of abnormal respiration associated with non-epileptic events has not been examined. DESIGN/METHODS: We prospectively enrolled patients admitted in the epilepsy monitoring unit for seizure evaluation. Breathing disturbances (central versus obstructive events, tachypneas versus bradypnea), oxygenation and heart-rate before, during and after seizures and relationship to seizure activity were evaluated by respiratory inductance plethysmography (RIP), pulse-oximetry and EKG. Type of seizure (non-epileptic versus epileptic) was determined on the basis of EEG and video analysis. Statistical analyses were performed to compare minimal oxygen saturation (two group mean comparison test), as well as proportions of apnea, tachycardia, and desaturation in ES versus NES (two groups comparison of proportions). RESULTS: Forty-three adult-patients were enrolled from October 2010 to August 2011. Subjects9 age ranged from 22 to 62 years. Fifty-five definite epileptic and 22 non-epileptic events were recorded. Significant desaturation was noted in 54% of the ES and none of the NES. Minimal oxygen saturation associated with an event was significantly lower in the ES compared with the NES (p=.03). Apnea (central or obstructive) was noted in 35% of the ES and none of the NES (p=.001). Tachycardia occurred in 67% of the ES 71% of the NES (n/s). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings complement prior reports of cardiorespiratory abnormalities in epileptic events, in comparison with non-epileptic events. Tachycardia was similar in ES and NES. In contrast, respiratory abnormalities were seen primarily in the epileptic events. This suggests that respiratory dysfunction has a unique importance in the evaluation of epileptic seizures. Supported by: Harvard CATALYST pilot project grant. Disclosure: Dr. Kothare has nothing to disclose. Dr. Singh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Dworetzky has received personal compensation for activities with Sleep Health/Digitrace Company, and Best Doctors. Dr. Abdenadder has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pavlova has received personal compensation for activities with Takeda.
Shattuck lecture--healing and heroism.

The centennial anniversary of this distinguished lecture series provides an opportunity to survey our profession from a long perspective, one that encompasses decades and perhaps even centuries. I would like to speak briefly about the physicians in the Shattuck family and then reflect at greater length on Sir William Osler, who was the fourth Shattuck Lecturer. I will consider what made Osler a hero to the public as well as to the medical profession, and why for a hundred years he has been regarded as the preeminent role model for a physician. A centennial anniversary is also a time to . . .
Analyzing Refractive Index Profiles of Confined Fluids by Interferometry

This work describes an interferometry data analysis method for determining the optical thickness of thin films or any variation in the refractive index of a fluid or film near a surface. In particular, the method described is applied to the analysis of interferometry data taken with a surface force apparatus (SFA). The technique does not require contacting or confining the fluid or film. By analyzing interferometry data taken at many intersurface separation distances out to at least 300 nm, the properties of a film can be quantitatively determined. The film can consist of material deposited on the surface, like a polymer brush, or variation in a fluid’s refractive index near a surface resulting from, for example, a concentration gradient, depletion in density, or surface roughness. The method is demonstrated with aqueous polyethylenimine (PEI) adsorbed onto mica substrates, which has a large concentration and therefore refractive index gradient near the mica surface. The PEI layer thickness determined by ...
Reproductive biology of Microplitis brassicae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), parasite of the cabbage looper, Trichoplusia ni (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

The reproductive biology of Microplitis brassicae Muesebeck was investigated at five different constant temperatures. This solitary internal parasite oviposits in first and second instars (0–6 days old) of its host Trichoplusia ni (Hubner). Duration of development from egg to adult ranged from 17.7 days at 21.1°C to 10.7 days at 32.2°C. Adult longevity ranged from 55.5 days at 15.5°C to 12.9 days at 32.2°C for males, and from 76.4 days at 15.5°C to 13.7 days at 32.2°C for females. Sexes were significantly different in their longevities only at 15.5°C. Total progeny production was significantly greatest at 21.1°C, averaging 73.2 progeny per female. Levels of progeny production were near zero at the low (15.5°C) and high ends (35.0°C) of the temperature range tested. Rearing methods, mating, searching, and ovipositional behaviors are described.