cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stimulating memory: Reviewing interventions using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to enhance or restore memory abilities

Human memory systems are imperfect recording devices that are affected by age and disease, but recent findings suggest that the functionality of these systems may be modifiable through interventions using non-invasive brain stimulation such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). The translational potential of these rTMS interventions is clear: memory problems are the most common cognitive complaint associated with healthy aging, while pathological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease are often associated with severe deficits in memory. Therapies to improve memory or treat memory loss could enhance independence while reducing costs for public health systems. Despite this promise, several important factors limit the generalizability and translational potential of rTMS interventions for memory. Heterogeneity of protocol design, rTMS parameters, and outcome measures present significant challenges to interpretation and reproducibility. However, recent advances in cognitive neuroscience, including rTMS approaches and recent insights regarding functional brain networks, may offer methodological tools necessary to design new interventional studies with enhanced experimental rigor, improved reproducibility, and greater likelihood of successful translation to clinical settings. In this review, we first discuss the current state of the literature on memory modulation with rTMS, then offer a commentary on developments in cognitive neuroscience that are relevant to rTMS interventions, and finally close by offering several recommendations for the design of future investigations using rTMS to modulate human memory performance.
Energy Storage Configuration Optimization Strategy for Islanded Microgrid Interconnection Based on Energy Consumption Characteristics

As a result of distributed energy development, the demand for energy storage grows more rapidly. The optimization of energy storage allocation is urgently needed. The economic benefits and characteristics of storage allocation have been thoroughly explored, and a mathematical model of economy was established. The centralized configuration of energy storage can make the best use of surplus electricity and reduce charging loss. The peak cutting and valley filling effect is quite obvious. Furthermore, some allocation strategies of storage were proposed. Based on the data of a user-side transformer and photovoltaic power generation, the cost under different strategies and the configuration scheme with the lowest cost is calculated. The example was used to analyze and compare the benefits under various strategies, and the results show it works in cost-saving. The strategy of similarity storage allocation has a positive effect on energy and cost-saving.
Primate Models for Dietary Restriction Research

During the six-odd decades in which reduced dietary intake has been established as the only definitive intervention for extension of maximum life span in mammals, two burning questions have persisted. First, what is the mechanism responsible for the life-prolongation effect, and second, can this effect be achieved in humans (or for that matter, any animal higher on the evolutionary scale than rodents)?
Strategies for Evaluating Antioxidant Efficacy in Clinical Trials Assessing Prevention of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Outcomes in studies assessing the prevention of acquired hearing loss have been encouraging, particularly with respect to the prevention of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in animal models. Data from human subjects are more limited, but several small-scale studies suggest potential benefit from several different agents with antioxidant properties. Our own research efforts have evaluated additional compounds with potential benefits for the prevention of NIHL (NCT00808470; NCT01444846). A number of other agents are entering human clinical trials, and this chapter provides a review of the test measures that are commonly used, as well as other emerging metrics that may have utility in the future. While we review current and completed clinical trials as part of this chapter, the field continues to advance at a rapid pace, and the information provided in this chapter will surely become quickly dated. Readers are encouraged to visit the National Institutes of Health online Clinical Trials Registry (http://clinicaltrials.gov/) for easy access to up-to-date clinical trial information. At the time of writing this chapter, there are no therapeutics approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the prevention of NIHL or hearing loss acquired secondary to other insults such as aminoglycoside antibiotic exposure or cisplatin treatment.
Parametric cost-effectiveness inference with skewed data

Comparing treatment effects while taking into account the associated costs is an important goal of cost-effectiveness analyses. Several cost-effectiveness measures have been proposed to quantify these comparisons, including the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) and the incremental net benefit (INB). Various approaches have been proposed for constructing confidence intervals for ICER and INB, including parametric methods (e.g. based on the Delta method or on Fieller's method), nonparametric methods (e.g. various bootstrap methods), as well as Bayesian methods. Skewed data are usually the norm in cost-effectiveness analyses, and accurate parametric confidence intervals in this context are lacking. Confidence intervals for both ICER and INB are constructed using the concept of a generalized pivotal quantity, which can be derived for various combinations of normal, lognormal, and other skewed distributions for costs and effectiveness. The proposed methodology is straightforward in terms of computation and implementation even in the presence of covariates, and the resulting confidence intervals compared favorably with existing methods in a simulation study. The approach is illustrated using data from three randomized trials.
Torsional mechanical filters at 500 kHz

A torsional mechanical filter configuration has been developed for operation in the commonly used IF (intermediate frequency) range of 500 kHz, utilizing third torsional-mode electromechanical transducer resonators in conjunction with second torsional-mode interior resonators. This structure was derived by extension of the lower-frequency (typically 128-kHz) fundamental torsional-mode technology, with methods developed to avoid relatively closely spaced spurious modes in the wire coupling elements. Finally, the observed transition-band skewing has been shown to be caused by coupling-wire weld stiffness in conjunction with the wire's transverse elasticity, and the configuration of staggered coupling wires has been shown to eliminate this effect. >
Generalization of the relaxation method for the inverse solution of nonlinear and linear transfer equations

A mapping transformation is derived for the inverse solution of nonlinear and linear integral equations of the types encountered in remote sounding studies. The method is applied to the solution of specific problems for the determination of the thermal and composition structure of planetary atmospheres from a knowledge of their upwelling radiance.
Overview of Antiretroviral Therapy

All of the agents that are available for the treatment of human immunodeficiency viral infection belong to the class of drugs called nucleoside analogs that act on the virus's reverse transcriptase enzyme. As their use expanded for increasing cohorts of patients and stages of disease, it became clear that additional agents were required that would act at different points in the virus's life cycle. Several different classes of drugs have been identified and evaluated in the laboratory and the clinic. At this point, one of the most promising that is undergoing clinical trials is the proteinase inhibitors. It is important to assess the data for currently available drugs and use that information to determine the most appropriate role for proteinase inhibitors. To appreciate their potential role best, we must also glance over the horizon at other experimental treatments.
Malpighi and the holy body: medical experts and miraculous evidence in seventeenth-century Italy

In this article I use the records of the canonization proceedings of Caterina Vigri (Saint Catherine of Bologna) to examine the role of physicians in assessing miraculous evidence, and more broadly the relationship between religious and secular views of the body in early modern Italy. Medical men – including the prominent anatomist Marcello Malpighi – were important expert witnesses in the final denouement of Caterina Vigri's canonization process, in the 1660s and 70s. Their opinion was crucial in the evaluation of the Beata's healing miracles, as well as in the assessment of her body's ‘incorruption’. I examine how the doctors involved in the canonization proceedings viewed Caterina's healing miracles and I compare it with their attitude to her allegedly undecayed body. The way these doctors handled the touchy issue of Caterina's ‘holy body’ is particularly interesting, as it betrays a strong note of scepticism, which is absent, in contrast, in their reaction to her healing miracles. The doctors’ sceptical view of the ‘holy body’ played a major role in the Roman stage of the canonization proceedings, leading the Congregation of Rites to exclude the miracle of the ‘incorrupt’ body from the two miracles necessary for canonization. This episode indicates a new significance of medical testimony in the evaluation of miraculous evidence, and the emerging of a tension between the medical and the religious views of the body, which was destined to become a serious problem for modern Catholicism. (pp. 568–586)
Use of laparoscopic cholecystectomy for biliary dyskinesia in the child

Abstract Background Biliary dyskinesia (BD) is a consideration as a cause of chronic abdominal pain in the pediatric population. We sought to correlate the results of cholecystokinin–diisopropyl iminodiacetic acid (CCK-DISIDA) scanning, the basis for diagnosis of BD, with outcome after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods A retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy from May 2000 through March 2007. The diagnosis of BD was based on CCK-DISIDA scan demonstrating a gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF) of less than 35% and/or reproduction of pain on CCK administration or no filling of the gall bladder with a normal ultrasound examination. Hospital, General Surgery office, and Gastroenterology Office charts were reviewed for demographic and management data points. We used χ 2 and Mann-Whitney tests for statistical analysis. Results For the period of review, 430 patients underwent a laparoscopic cholecystectomy including 75 patients with a preoperative diagnosis of BD. The mean age of the BD population was 14 (range, 9-19) years. Female to male ratio was 2.4:1. The mean body mass index was 24.4 kg/m 2 . On average, patients had abdominal symptoms for 15.5 (range, 0.25-72) months. Each patient underwent nearly 2.5 studies (computed tomography, ultrasound, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or upper gastrointestinal series) before diagnosis by CCK-DISIDA. The mean GBEF was 17.4%. When commented on (n = 41), pain on CCK administration was noted in 25 (61%) patients. Pathology revealed chronic cholecystitis in 44%. After laparoscopic cholecystectomy, 58 (77.33%) patients reported resolution of their abdominal pain (mean follow-up 4 months). Of the 17 patients without improvement, 7 were later diagnosed with other underlying pathology (Crohn's, hiatal hernia, cyclic vomiting). There was no difference in GBEF, age, histopathology, or sex between the two groups. There were no complications. Conclusion Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a safe and effective treatment for the majority of children diagnosed with BD. Although CCK-DISIDA was used to identify biliary dysfunction, it did not correlate with outcome.
Privatization as an agency problem: Auctions versus private negotiations

Abstract This paper investigates the design of privatization mechanisms in emerging market economies characterized by political constraints that limit the set of viable privatization options. Our objective is to explain the striking diversity of mechanisms observed in practice and the frequent use of an apparently sub-optimal privatization mechanism: private negotiations. We develop a simple model in which privatization is to be carried out by a government agent, who plays favorites among bidders but is potentially disciplined by losing his private benefits of staying in office. If the political environment is such that the privatization agent himself aims at raising the fair value for the company, then privatization auctions and private negotiations are equally successful in raising public revenues. If, however, political considerations distort the agent’s incentives, it may be that a seemingly transparent auction will raise less revenue, than opaque private negotiations. We also show that information disclosure laws may have negative welfare implications: they may help the privatization agent to collude with some of the bidders to the disadvantage of non-colluding bidders.
Effects of birth spacing and timing on mothers' labor force participation

Data from the March 1991Current Population Survey [Bureau of the Census, 1992] were used to investigate the effects of children on single and married mothers' labor force participation decisions. Logit results indicated that for both single and married mothers, an increase in education and market experience increases the probability of market participation while an increase in income has a negative effect on the likelihood of mothers' labor market participation. The number of children present in the household negatively affected participation while an increase in the age of children positively influenced the mother's labor market participation. The spacing effect in the married group and the timing effect in the single group were significant. Furthermore, an increase in the number of older children in the household (between the ages of 12 and 17 years) increased the probability of labor market participation by single mothers but decreased that of married mothers.
Clinical features associated with treatment-resistant pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Abstract Objective The objective of the study was to identify clinical and sociodemographic characteristics that may differentiate youth with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) who are resistant to treatment vs those who have a favorable response. Method Participants included 60 outpatients, aged 7-17 years, who were determined to have previously received an adequate trial of a first-line treatment (ie, serotonin reuptake inhibitors, cognitive behavioral therapy). Patients who were treatment-resistant were compared with responders on a number of factors, including severity and nature of OCD symptoms, levels of internalizing and externalizing symptoms, family accommodation of OCD symptoms, and functional impairment. Results The treatment-resistant group endorsed significantly more obsessions and compulsions, greater levels of internalizing symptoms, higher parental stress related to accommodation, and greater functional impairment than treatment responders. However, relative to treatment-resistant patients, treatment responders reported higher levels of depressive symptoms, perhaps indicating that they were more distressed by their OCD symptoms, as well as greater insight into their symptoms. Conclusions This study indicates that youth with more severe symptoms of OCD, higher related parental stress, and greater functional impairment tend to be more resistant to first-line treatments, and that perhaps they may require more intensive or family-based interventions. Treatment responders report more depressive symptoms and insight into their OCD, which may suggest a greater readiness for treatment. Further research likely would help to identify which types of treatment would be most beneficial for individual youth.
Quantification of Lipid Burden in Heart Transplant (HT) Patients by Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS)

Purpose The presence of coronary lipid early post-HT is evidence of donor atherosclerosis. Methods and Materials 30 HT patients underwent coronary angiography and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) for TCAD screening from a single institution. They received NIRS as part of the COLOR registry after informed consent. NIRS was analyzed for lipid core burden index (LCBI). Linear regression was used to correlate clinical parameters with LCBI. LCBI was subsequently divided into four groups: ≤10, 10-49, 50-100, and >100 and re-analyzed using ordinal regression. Results Of the 30 patients, 8 were undergoing routine early screening 30-60 days post-HT (median 40.0, IQR 34.0-47.3 days) and 22 were in the intermediate time range > 60 days (median 406.5, IQR 359.3-732.3 days). 70.6% were male and mean age was 52.5±12.8 years. Total cholesterol was 172.7±38.0, LDL was 93.3±39.5, and HDL was 48.0±14.2 mg/dL. 16.7% had angiographic TCAD, with 3 mild ( 70%) disease. 73.1% had intimal thickening by IVUS and 83.3% had lipid plaque by NIRS. For patients with angiographic TCAD, mean LCBI was 47.6±42.2 vs. 26.2±37.9 (p=0.268). For patients with atherosclerosis by IVUS, mean LCBI was 31.6±42.1 vs. 14.9±17.4 (p=0.321). In both unadjusted and multivariate regression, there was no correlation of LCBI with recipient age, gender, hypertension, dyslipidemia, tobacco use, diabetes mellitus, white cell count, LDL, HDL, or cylex level. After dividing LCBI into categories, there was also no correlation to any of these factors. Conclusions The majority of early post-HT patients had lipid burden by NIRS. NIRS appears to be more sensitive than angiography and IVUS in detecting lipid plaque in post-HT patients. The implications of early lipid burden remain unclear post-HT. Longitudinal follow-up is needed to determine if lipid plaque predisposes to development of TCAD.
Diabetes risk perception in women with recent gestational diabetes: delivery to the postpartum visit.

AbstractObjective: Low perceived risk for type 2 diabetes (T2DM) may be a barrier to lifestyle change in women with recent gestational diabetes (GDM). We assessed perceived risk for T2DM at delivery and postpartum.Methods: We used a validated diabetes risk perception instrument to survey women with GDM at delivery and postpartum. We compared women with low perceived risk for T2DM at delivery to those with high perceived risk.Results: The majority (N = 43 of 70, 61%) perceived high risk at delivery. Women who perceived low risk were younger (30.7 ± 6.3 versus 35.0 ± 4.5 years, p = 0.003) than women who perceived high risk. Although knowledge of risk factors for T2DM was poor (mean 6.0 ± 1.9, of 11 points), 95% correctly identified GDM as a risk factor. Perceived risk was maintained in most (N = 51 of 58, 88%) who returned for their postpartum visit. Low perceived risk was not associated with loss to follow up, however correct identification of GDM as a risk factor was protective (OR 0.05, 95% CI 0.005, 0.5...
The ATP-Dependent Amide Ligases DdaG and DdaF Assemble the Fumaramoyl-Dipeptide Scaffold of the Dapdiamide Antibiotics

The enzymes DdaG and DdaF, encoded in the Pantoea agglomerans dapdiamide antibiotic biosynthetic gene cluster, when expressed in Escherichia coli, form the tandem amide bonds of the dapdiamide scaffold at the expense of ATP cleavage. DdaG uses fumarate, 2,3-diaminopropionate (DAP), and ATP to make fumaroyl-AMP transiently on the way to the N(beta)-fumaroyl-DAP regioisomer. Then DdaF acts as a second ATP-dependent amide ligase, but this enzyme cleaves ATP to ADP and P(i) during amide bond formation. However, DdaF will not accept N(beta)-fumaroyl-DAP; the enzyme requires the fumaroyl moiety to be first converted to the fumaramoyl half-amide in N(beta)-fumaramoyl-DAP. DdaF adds Val, Ile, or Leu to the carboxylate of fumaramoyl-DAP to make dapdiamide A, B, or C, respectively. Thus, to build the dapdiamide antibiotic scaffold, amidation must occur on the fumaroyl-DAP scaffold, after DdaG action but before DdaF catalysis. This is an unusual instance of two ligases acting sequentially in untemplated amide bond formations using attack of substrate carboxylates at P(alpha) (AMP-forming) and then at P(gamma) (ADP-forming) of ATP cosubstrates.
Do refugee-immigrants affect international trade? Evidence from the world's largest refugee case

Abstract This paper investigates the impact of refugees on a developing host country's bilateral trade with the source country using a Vector Error Correction model and Granger causality tests. Using the largest case of refugee settlements in the world, we look at how refugees moving over several decades from Afghanistan to Pakistan have affected bilateral trade both directly and indirectly. We find that changes in Afghani refugees do not Granger cause movements in bilateral trade between Afghanistan and Pakistan but foreign aid to Afghanistan does Granger cause trade between the two countries.
A wire-spark-chamber system with on-line computers

Abstract We describe the performance of a system of wire spark chambers and 2 on-line computers (one being time-shared) used in an experiment at the Brookhaven A.G.S. to study the decay of K± mesons via the τ mode (K±→ π ± π ± π ∓).
Gap nodes induced by coexistence with antiferromagnetism in iron-based superconductors

We investigate the pairing in iron pnictides in the coexistence phase, which displays both superconducting and antiferromagnetic orders. By solving the pairing problem on the Fermi surface reconstructed by long-range magnetic order, we find that the pairing interaction necessarily becomes angle dependent, even if it was isotropic in the paramagnetic phase, which results in an angular variation of the superconducting gap along the Fermi surfaces. We find that the gap has no nodes for a small antiferromagnetic order parameter $M$, but may develop accidental nodes for intermediate values of $M$, when one pair of the reconstructed Fermi surface pockets disappears. For even larger $M$, when the other pair of reconstructed Fermi pockets is gapped by long-range magnetic order, superconductivity still exists, but the quasiparticle spectrum becomes nodeless again. We also show that the application of an external magnetic field facilitates the formation of nodes. We argue that this mechanism for a nodeless-nodal-nodeless transition explains recent thermal conductivity measurements of hole-doped (Ba${}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}$K${}_{x}$)Fe${}_{2}$As${}_{2}$ [J-Ph. Read et al., e-print arXiv:1105.2232].
On cross-modal similarity: perceiving temporal patterns by hearing, touch, and vision.

How does the similarity perceived between two brief temporal patterns depend on properties of the stimulus (durations of pulses and intervals between pulses) and on the sensory modality of presentation? Multidimensional scaling of similarity ratings obtained in a series of six experiments revealed four main findings: (1) Two-dimensional solutions provided good fits to all of the data, with the major dimension representing the order of intervals between pulses (long-short vs. short-long), the minor dimension representing overall duration (primarily of the pulses). (2) Essentially the same two-dimensional representation characterized similarity in intramodal comparisons (hearing, touch, vision) and cross-modal comparisons (hearing-touch, hearing-vision, vision-touch). But, (3) the major dimension-interval order-was even more prominent in crossmodal comparisons. Finally, (4) although individual subjects varied widely as to which dimension they weighted more heavily, individuals were consistent in this over all six (intramodal and cross-modal) tasks. Despite some differences between intramodal and cross-modal perception of similarity in temporal patterns, a large component of the similarity judgments transcends individual modalities.
Canine model for surgical correction of chronic venous hypertension

A chronic model of venous hypertension was created by iliofemoral venous ligation in the left hindlimb of eight greyhounds (right limb control). Prior to ligation, immediately postligation (T0), and at 2, 4, 6, and 15 weeks postligation (T2-T15), bilateral hindlimb venous pressures were measured at rest. At T2–T15, exercise pressures were measured for 5 min after hindlimb muscle contraction induced under sedation by tetanic (20 sec, 50 Hz, 8 mA) stimulus (S30–S300 sec). Resting and exercise pressures were significantly higher in the ligated hindlimb at all time intervals (resting, P < 0.001 at T0, T2, T4, T6, and P < 0.025 at T15; exercise, P < 0.001 for S30–S300 at T2–T15). In five of the animals at 15 weeks, a cross-femoral venous bypass (CFB) with adjacent adjuvant arteriovenous fistula (AVF) was constructed using autologous external jugular vein. Venous pressures were measured at 2 and 6 weeks post-CFB both at rest and after tetanic muscle stimulation. At 2 weeks, venous pressure in the ligated limb was significantly higher than that in control only after exercise (P < 0.025 at S30–S120; P < 0.05 at S150–S180; NS at S240–S300). At 6 weeks, venous pressures were not significantly different at rest or with exercise. All five grafts were patent at 6 weeks. Three of five dogs then successfully underwent ligation of the AVF. At 2 weeks post-AVF ligation there was no difference in resting or exercise venous pressure in the ligated limb compared to control. At 6 weeks post-AVF ligation only two dogs remained for monitoring and in these there was no trend toward venous hypertension in the ligated hindlimb. Graft patency was maintained despite AVF ligation.
Induction of Mendelian and non-Mendelian streptomycin resistant mutants during the synchronous cell cycle of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii.

In synchronized cultures of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) was found to selectively mutate replicating forms of nuclear DNA. This conclusion was based on the 15- to 30-fold increase in the recovery of MNNG induced Mendelian streptomycin resistant mutants (sr-1) which was correlated with mutagenesis during the period of nuclear DNA replication. No concomitant increase in the recovery of non-Mendelian streptomycin resistant mutants (sr-2) occurred during this same period. Mutagenesis at the time of chloroplast DNA replication, however, resulted in a 1.5- to 1.6-fold increase in the recovery of both sr-1 and sr-2 induced mutants.
The Other Minds Problem In Early Heidegger

In Being and Time, Heidegger seems to have gotten the other minds problem backwards?taking it as obvious that we are in the midst of an intersubjective or "public" world and struggling with the question of how (in some sense) we come to know ourselves (given intersubjectivity, how to find an "I" or individuate myself). In what follows, I will try to make sense of Heidegger's backwardness here; to piece together the somewhat sketchy treatment of the traditional problem which prepares the way for his move in the opposite direction. Heidegger's discussion of our knowledge of others in Being and Time consists largely of brief and scattered remarks which look like conclusions without argument.l One is tempted to join Sartre in his charge that Heidegger has "solved" the philosophical problem by simply defining human existence as coexistence and awarding, without justification, privileged status to our ordinary beliefs.2 I will argue that Heidegger cannot be dismissed so easily. By placing his remarks about our encountering of others into the context ofthe theory ofthe nature of things and the world which emerges from earlier sections o? Being and Time, I will try to show that Heidegger offers a substantial criticism of, and a plausible alternative to, the traditional account ofthe relation of self to others which leads to the other minds problem. Being and Time represents, at least in part, Heidegger's response to Husserl's suggestion that a complete characterization of the "natural standpoint" (or attitude) would be a task of great importance?though one which Husserl could not take time to pursue, the more pressing task being the
High-fidelity simulation-based training in neonatal nursing.

Simulation-based training is a novel approach that facilitates the use of higher order thinking skills. Simulationbased training challenges medical professionals to develop cognitive, technical, and behavioral skills through the use of mannequins, working medical equipment, and human colleagues. During scenarios, trainees must make use of their knowledge base, analyze and synthesize factors contributing to the crises, and evaluate the effects of their actions. Feedback indicates that simulation-based training programs are more pertinent to and better accepted by adult learners than traditional programs. The instructional methodologies used in simulation-based training programs are more in line with the tenets of adult learning.
Synthesis and secretion of hydroxyproline containing macromolecules in carrots. I. Kinetic analysis

When disks of carrot (Daucus carota) phloem parenchyma are incubated for 6 days there is a 10-fold increase in cell wall hydroxyproline due to the synthesis and secretion of hydroxyproline-containing macromolecules. The synthesis of these molecules and their secretion are demonstrated by measuring the kinetics of incorporation and of chase of 14C-proline and hydroxyproline in different fractions of the cytoplasm and the cell wall. The hydroxyproline-containing molecules which are secreted are associated with the membranous organelles of the cytoplasm. They can be fractionated into trichloroacetic acid-soluble and trichloroacetic acid-precipitated fractions. The properties of the trichloroacetic acid-soluble fraction associated with the membranous organelles are consistent with its role as a cell wall precursor.
Gestures of work: Levinas and Hegel

What is Levinas's relation to Hegel, the thinker who seems to summarize everything which Levinas's philosophy opposes, yet with whom Levinas never enters a sustained philosophical engagement? An answer can be found through an analysis of the concept of work, understood both as activity of labor and product thereof. The concept of work reveals that, despite the apparent (but superficial) sense of opposition, Levinas's philosophy works in a deliberately noncommittal, or, to use a Levinasian expression, ``dis-interested'' mode with respect to Hegel. Such mode of disinterstedness expresses an ethical gesture of joyful hospitality that neither confirms nor refutes the German philosopher but rather opens him up to an eschatological dimension.
Some thoughts on the development of cointegration

Abstract This paper describes how the notion of cointegration came about, and discusses some generalizations to indicate where the topic may go next. In particular, some issues in the analysis of possibly cointegrated quantile time series are discussed.
Rethinking the Baseline in Diversity Research: Should We Be Explaining the Effects of Homogeneity?

It is often surprisingly difficult to make definitive scientific statements about the functional value of group diversity. We suggest that one clear pattern in the group diversity literature is the prevailing convention of interpreting outcomes as the effect of diversity alone. Although work in this arena typically compares diverse groups with homogeneous ones, we most often conceive of homogeneous groups as a baseline—a reference point from which we can understand how diversity has changed behavior or what type of response is “normal.” In this article, we offer a new perspective through a focus on two propositions. The first proposition is that homogeneity has independent effects of its own—effects that, in some cases, are robust in comparison with the effects of diversity. The second proposition is that even though subjective responses in homogeneous groups are often treated as a neutral indicator of how people would ideally respond in a group setting, evidence suggests that these responses are often less objective or accurate than responses in diverse groups. Overall, we believe that diversity research may unwittingly reveal important insights regarding the effects of homogeneity.
On the problem of stochastic experimental modal analysis based on multiple-excitation multiple-response data, part I: Dispersion analysis of continuous-time structural systems

Despite its importance and the undisputable significance of stochastic effects, the problem of multiple-excitation multiple-response experimental modal analysis has thus far been almost exclusively considered within a deterministic framework. In this paper a novel, comprehensive and effective stochastic approach, that, unlike alternative schemes, can operate on vibration displacement, velocity or acceleration data, is introduced. The proposed approach is capable of effectively dealing with noise-corrupted vibration data, while also being characterized by unique features that enable it to overcome major drawbacks of current modal analysis methods and achieve high performance characteristics by employing: (a) proper and mutually compatible force excitation signal type and stochastic model forms, (b) an estimation scheme that circumvents problems such as algorithmic instability, wrong convergence, and high computational complexity, while requiring no initial guess parameter values, (c) effective model structure estimation and model validation procedures, and, (d) appropriate model transformation, reduction and analysis procedures based on a novel dispersion analysis methodology. This dispersion analysis methodology is a physically meaningful way of assessing the relative importance of the estimated vibrational modes based on their contributions (“dispersions”) to the vibration signal energy. The effects of modal cross-correlations are fully accounted for, physical interpretations are provided in both the correlation and spectral domains, and the phenomenon of negative dispersion modes is investigated and physically interpreted. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is finally verified via numerical and laboratory experiments, as well as comparisons with the classical frequency domain method and the deterministic eigensystem realization algorithm (ERA). The paper is divided into two parts: the proposed dispersion analysis methodology is introduced in the first one; whereas the complete stochastic experimental modal analysis approach is presented in the second [23].
Influence of pouch and stoma size on weight loss after gastric bypass

Abstract Background Enlargement of the gastric pouch and/or gastrojejunostomy after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is postulated to be the antecedent to suboptimal weight loss or weight regain. The present study evaluated the gastric pouch and stoma dimensions in RYGB patients and correlated them with the weight loss outcomes. Methods Patients who underwent upper endoscopy for investigation of gastrointestinal symptoms or weight regain after RYGB were identified. The stoma was considered enlarged if >2 cm in diameter and the pouch was considered enlarged if >6 cm long or >5 cm wide. Successful weight loss was defined as excess weight loss >50% or a body mass index decrease to ≤30 kg/m 2 . Results A total of 380 patients had nondiagnostic upper endoscopy findings at a mean post-RYGB interval of 5.9 ± 4.0 years. Among these were 175 patients (group A; 87% women) who had successful weight loss and 205 patients (group B; 86% women) who were referred for investigation of weight regain. The pouch and stoma size were normal in most of the patients in group A (63.4%) compared with 28.8% of the patients in group B ( P Conclusion The current definition of a "normal" size pouch/stoma is associated with optimal weight loss after RYGB, although this might need to be reviewed. Patients who regain weight are likely to have abnormal anatomy, in particular, stoma enlargement. The surgical RYGB technique and methods of evaluating the gastric anatomy in RYGB patients need to be standardized, intraoperatively and postoperatively.
A comparison of discrimination capabilities of time- and frequency-domain electromagnetic induction systems

This paper discusses the ability of time and frequency domain electromagnetic induction systems to discriminate unexploded ordnance from clutter. Toward this end, time and frequency domain electromagnetic induction systems were built and the responses of a wide variety of targets including loops, spheres, cylinders and inert UXOs were measured. Also, time and frequency responses of test targets are numerically modeled using finite element methods to validate the experimental work. Target information is more distinct in the frequency domain than time domain. Moreover, discrimination performance of the frequency domain electromagnetic induction system was enhanced by almost a factor of two when the usual the low frequency spectrum (30 Hz to 24 kHz) was extended down to extremely low frequencies (1 Hz to 30 Hz). However, data acquisition at extremely low frequencies is a time consuming process especially if data averaging is required to achieve acceptable SNR. Therefore, in practice, it would be better to have two operating modes when using a frequency domain electromagnetic induction system; one with very few operating frequencies and the other operating in the entire band (1 Hz to 24 kHz). Once a target location is marked using the first mode, the system can be used as a "cued" sensor in the second mode, thus improving the discrimination.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Purification and properties of toxins A and B of Clostridium difficile

Toxins A and B of Clostridium difficile were purified to homogeneity and some of their properties were examined. The toxins have similar LD100 values in mice, share some similarities in their amino acid composition, and are both sensitive to oxidizing agents. However, they have different isoelectric points and do not show any significant peptide homology.
THE EFFECT OF HYPNOTICS ON BLOOD SUGAR AND ON THE ACTION OF INSULIN1

The effect of barbiturates or morphine upon the blood sugar level has been the subject of several investigations but an examination of the results reported does not lead to convincing conclusions as will be evident from the following brief resume. Barbital sodium, as reported by Ellis and Barlow (1924), lowered the blood sugar in both cats and pigeons. Weiss (1926) has reported that barbital caused a marked initial rise in blood sugar in the cat and dog which is followed by a gradual fall. Jackson (1931) reported that in rabbits, barbital sodium retards the hypoglycemia produced by insulin. Murphy and Young (1932) have reported that pentobarbital and other barbiturates produced an increase in blood sugar in cats. Jarman and Abel (1933) reported that evipal sodium in humans produced no alteration in blood sugar. Hemingway et al. (1934) found that pentobarbital in the dog caused a slight increase in blood sugar.
Playing God--revisited.

Excerpt To the Editors: Dr. LaCombe's captivating story (1) is a stark reminder of the primary role of the physician in 1992 or in any era. Despite expenditure of billions of dollars on health care...
Bayesian uncertainty assessment in multicompartment deterministic simulation models for environmental risk assessment

We use a special case of Bayesian melding to make inference from deterministic models while accounting for uncertainty in the inputs to the model. The method uses all available information, based on both data and expert knowledge, and extends current methods of ‘uncertainty analysis’ by updating models using available data. We extend the methodology for use with sequential multicompartment models. We present an application of these methods to deterministic models for concentration of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) in soil and vegetables. The results are posterior distributions of concentration in soil and vegetables which account for all available evidence and uncertainty. Model uncertainty is not considered. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flexible Porous Wave Barrier for Enhanced Wetlands Habitat Restoration

A flexible porous wave barrier is proposed to increase the effectiveness of wetlands habitat restoration projects by protecting cordgrass seedlings from wave action during the critical initial stages of growth following planting. The barrier consists of a vertical porous membrane anchored to the sea bed and kept under tension by a small buoyant float. The structure is easily constructed, requires little maintenance, and may be deployed from a small boat without the need for specialized equipment or trained personnel. A numerical model is developed to assess the effectiveness of this structure as a barrier to wave action. The fluid motion is idealized as linearized, two-dimensional potential flow and the equation of motion of the structure is taken to be that of a one-dimensional beam of uniform mass per unit length subjected to a constant axial force. The boundary integral equation method is applied to the fluid domain, and the dynamic behavior of the structure is also described through an appropriate Green function. Numerical results are presented that illustrate the effects of the various wave and structural parameters on the wave reflection characteristics of the structure. Small-scale physical model tests have also been carried out in the University of Houston wavetank facility to validate the predictions of the numerical model. In general, good agreement was obtained between the theoretical and experimental reflection coefficients. It is found that for certain structural parameter combinations a porous tensioned membrane structure may provide a reasonably effective barrier in the short- to mid-wavelength range.
Reevaluating the Factor Structure of the Revised California Psychological Inventory

The result of a hierarchical factor analysis of the intercorrelations among the CPI-R folk scales showed a strong general profile elevation factor for both men and women. The emergence of the general factor is noteworthy because it provides an empirical basis for interpreting the overall CPI/CPI-R profile elevation as a measure of personal adjustment. This practice is well entrenched in the clinical literature on CPI interpretation but it has not been previously supported through factor analytic research.
Velocity dependence of azimuthal anisotropies in ion scattering from rhodium {111}

Abstract The scattering of He + , Ne + and Ar + ions from Rh {111} is measured as a function of the azimuthal angle of the primary ion for an incident polar angle of 70° from the surface normal and an inplane collection angle of 60°. In this case anisotropy is defined as the ratio of the yield of ions scattered having the azimuth of 〈110〉 to the yield of those having the azimuth of 〈211〉. The yield ratio for all particle types correlates with particle velocity. The ratio is ∼ 1 at low velocities, decreases to ∼ 0.2 at 8 × 10 6 cm s and then increases to a value of 1.4 at 25 × 10 6 cm s . Molecular dynamics calculations have been performed for Ne + ion scattering from Rh{111} in order to understand the changes in anisotropy with particle velocity. Qualitative agreement with the experimental results is obtained without having to account for neutralization. A neutralization probability that depends on the collision time improves the agreement between the calculated and experimental yield ratios. A velocity dependent probability will not affect the ratio of yields in two different azimuthal directions.
Structural Investigation of Encapsulated Fluoride in Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane Cages Using Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry and Molecular Mechanics

A new series of encapsulated fluoride polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) materials, [(CH3)4N+][F−@(R8Si8O12)], where R = vinyl, phenyl, styrenyl, trifluoropropyl, nonafluorohexyl, or tridecafluorooctyl, were synthesized by the reaction of tetramethylammonium fluoride with the R8Si8O12 POSS in tetrahydrofuran. Encapsulation of the fluoride was confirmed with 19F and 29Si NMR spectroscopy. Ion mobility and molecular modeling methods were used to investigate the gas phase conformational properties of these POSS. Theoretical calculations demonstrate that the binding energy of fluoride to the interior of the POSS cage ranges from 70 to 270 kcal/mol as a function of substituent. Sodiated positive ions of the form H+[F−@R8T8]Na+ (T = SiO3/2, R = styrenyl, phenyl, and vinyl) were examined by MALDI; ESI was used to study the negative ions F−@R8T8 (R = styrenyl, phenyl, vinyl, trifluoropropyl, and nonafluorohexyl). The ion mobilities of these species were measured and used to calculate collision cross sect...
Hepatitis C virus RNA replication depends on specific cis- and trans-acting activities of viral nonstructural proteins.

Many positive-strand RNA viruses encode genes that can function in trans, whereas other genes are required in cis for genome replication. The mechanisms underlying trans- and cis-preferences are not fully understood. Here, we evaluate this concept for hepatitis C virus (HCV), an important cause of chronic liver disease and member of the Flaviviridae family. HCV encodes five nonstructural (NS) genes that are required for RNA replication. To date, only two of these genes, NS4B and NS5A, have been trans-complemented, leading to suggestions that other replicase genes work only in cis. We describe a new quantitative system to measure the cis- and trans-requirements for HCV NS gene function in RNA replication and identify several lethal mutations in the NS3, NS4A, NS4B, NS5A, and NS5B genes that can be complemented in trans, alone or in combination, by expressing the NS3–5B polyprotein from a synthetic mRNA. Although NS5B RNA binding and polymerase activities can be supplied in trans, NS5B protein expression was required in cis, indicating that NS5B has a cis-acting role in replicase assembly distinct from its known enzymatic activity. Furthermore, the RNA binding and NTPase activities of the NS3 helicase domain were required in cis, suggesting that these activities play an essential role in RNA template selection. A comprehensive complementation group analysis revealed functional linkages between NS3-4A and NS4B and between NS5B and the upstream NS3–5A genes. Finally, NS5B polymerase activity segregated with a daclatasvir-sensitive NS5A activity, which could explain the synergy of this antiviral compound with nucleoside analogs in patients. Together, these studies define several new aspects of HCV replicase structure-function, help to explain the potency of HCV-specific combination therapies, and provide an experimental framework for the study of cis- and trans-acting activities in positive-strand RNA virus replication more generally.
Catalysts for selective hydrogenation of soybean oil. I. An experimental method for evaluating selectivity

The undesirable flavor reversion properties of soybean oils may be counteracted by selective hydrogenation of the linolenate components. Screening of catalysts for this purpose was accomplished by a standardized laboratory hydrogenation of a refined, bleached soybean oil under atmospheric pressure. A mathematical derivation utilizes analytical chromatographic data to determine linolenate/linoleate reaction rates as a selectivity index SL for a given catalyst.