cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Systematics of the Saguinus oedipus group of the bare-face tamarins: Evidence from facial morphology

The systematics of the Saguinus oedipus group within the bare-face tamarins remains open to question. Hershkovitz (Living New World Monkeys (Platyrrhini), Vol. 1. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1977) places the cotton-top and rufus-naped tamarins as subspecies of Saguinus oedipus (S. o. oedipus and S. o. geoffroyi, respectively). In contrast, several other authors have argued that these two taxa should be considered separate species (S. oedipus and S. geoffroyi). Phylogenetic relationships within the group are also disputed. Resolving these different interpretations has been difficult in part because no study of this group has included an objective measure of expected levels of specific vs. subspecific variation. We used facial measurements from 179 adult crania to address the systematics of this group and included a related species that is known to include multiple subspecies. Our sample included three taxa from the S. oedipus group of the bare-face tamarins (S. oedipus, S. geoffroyi, and S. leucopus) and six subspecies from the related hairy-face tamarin species S. fuscicollis. Comparisons to S. leucopus provided a relative measure of species-level differences. Analyses that included S. fuscicollis provided a measure of subspecific variation. There was no evidence of facial sexual dimorphism in any of these taxa. A variety of multivariate statistical analyses including discriminant function and cluster analysis suggest that S. oedipus and S. geoffroyi differ morphologically at a level consistent with species-level distinctions. The extent of differences between these taxa is large. The differences in their facial morphology was on the order of differences between S. oedipus or S. geoffroyi and S. leucopus rather than the extent of variation among S. fuscicollis subspecies. Furthermore, a comparison of collecting localities revealed that the variation we observed among S. oedipus and S. geoffroyi was not clinal but presented a large morphological discontinuity at the boundary between taxa. Our analyses also suggested that S. leucopus is more similar to S. oedipus than is either to S. geoffroyi. Finally, it may be that there are some distinct species within the S. fuscicollis group. However, this hypothesis, along with other phylogenetic relationships suggested by this study, will require more data and further study. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Energy loss of ions moving through high-density matter

An equation is obtained for the energy loss of ions to electrons in a high-density plasma of arbitrary degeneracy. The quantum-mechanical form of the dielectric function is used to produce a formula that is free of the usual Coulomb divergence, so that the introduction of ad hoc cutoff parameters is not required. The results show a decrease of 20% to 50% in the energy-loss rate when compared with other formulas that use the standard Coulomb logarithm.
Investigation of vibratory bowl finishing

Although vibratory finishing has been in commercial use for over 40 years, relatively little fundamental information is known about the process, and industrial practice remains largely based on empiricism and trial and error. An experimental investigation into the vibratory bowl finishing process was conducted using material removal rate and surface roughness as the dependent variables. Bowl performance can best be described in terms of acceleration and depends primarily on the feed weights used, while bowl loading has a relatively minor effect. Furthermore, small changes in bowl loading resulting from normal media wear can be neglected. Results showed that material removal rates were constant over time for aluminium, brass and steel and were sensitive to hardness and bowl acceleration. Surface roughness saturated after a fixed period and was primarily a function of material composition. Surface roughness did not appear to be sensitive to bowl acceleration.
CrusView: A Java-Based Visualization Platform for Comparative Genomics Analyses in Brassicaceae Species

In plants and animals, chromosomal breakage and fusion events based on conserved syntenic genomic blocks lead to conserved patterns of karyotype evolution among species of the same family. However, karyotype information has not been well utilized in genomic comparison studies. We present CrusView, a Java-based bioinformatic application utilizing Standard Widget Toolkit/Swing graphics libraries and a SQLite database for performing visualized analyses of comparative genomics data in Brassicaceae (crucifer) plants. Compared with similar software and databases, one of the unique features of CrusView is its integration of karyotype information when comparing two genomes. This feature allows users to perform karyotype-based genome assembly and karyotype-assisted genome synteny analyses with preset karyotype patterns of the Brassicaceae genomes. Additionally, CrusView is a local program, which gives its users high flexibility when analyzing unpublished genomes and allows users to upload self-defined genomic information so that they can visually study the associations between genome structural variations and genetic elements, including chromosomal rearrangements, genomic macrosynteny, gene families, high-frequency recombination sites, and tandem and segmental duplications between related species. This tool will greatly facilitate karyotype, chromosome, and genome evolution studies using visualized comparative genomics approaches in Brassicaceae species. CrusView is freely available at http://www.cmbb.arizona.edu/CrusView/.
Bacterial Tracheitis: Report of Eight New Cases and Review

Bacterial tracheitis, previously referred to as nondiphtheritic laryngitis with marked exudate, was commonly discussed in pediatric textbooks before 1940. It seemed to disappear as a clinical entity after that time, but it has been recorded with increasing frequency in the pediatric literature since 1979. We describe eight new cases and review 110 previously described cases. The clinical course consists of a prodromal upper respiratory illness with stridor, fever, and a variable degree of respiratory distress. Unlike patients with croup, patients with bacterial tracheitis do not respond to aerosolized racemic epinephrine. Most patients require endotracheal intubation; some require tracheostomy. Reported complications include pneumonia, pneumothorax, formation of pseudomembranes, toxic shock syndrome, and cardiopulmonary arrest. Bacterial tracheitis is a secondary bacterial infection following a primary viral respiratory infection. The most common preceding viral infection is parainfluenza. Staphylococcus aureus and Haemophilus influenzae are the predominant causes of bacterial tracheitis. Secondary bacterial infection may occur as a result of tracheal mucosal injury or impairment of normal phagocytic function due to viral infection.
Isocyanate Reduction by Epoxide Substitution of Alcohols for Polyurethane Bioelastomer Synthesis

A phosphate ester-forming reaction was carried out by mixing epoxidized soybean oil with up to 1.5% o-phosphoric acid. In situ oligomerization took effect almost instantly producing a clear, homogeneous, highly viscous, and a low-acid product with a high average functionality. The resulting epoxide was used as a reactant for urethane bioelastomer synthesis and evaluated for rigid foam formulation. Results have shown that with a number of catalysts tested phosphoric acid significantly enhances a solvent-free oxirane ring cleavage and polymerization of the epoxidized soybean oil via phosphate-ester formation at room temperature. The resulting phosphoric acid-catalyzed epoxide-based bioelastomer showed an 80% decrease in extractable content and increased tensile strength at the same isocyanate loading relative to the noncatalyzed epoxide. The oligomerized epoxidized soybean oil materials exhibited ASTM hydroxyl values 40% less than the nonoligomerized starting material which translates to reduced isocyanate loadings in urethane applications.
A Dual-Frequency Omnidirectional Antenna for Polarization Diversity of MIMO and Wireless Communication Applications

A dual-frequency polarization diversity antenna is present for multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) systems. The proposed antenna produces horizontally polarized omnidirectional radiation fields caused by constant current distribution on its wing structures. The measured return losses of 18 and 19 dB are achieved at 2.45 and 3.9 GHz, respectively. The omnidirectional radiation patterns are achieved for dual-band MIMO systems and other wireless communication applications.
Pearls & Oy-sters: CSF analysis and the therapeutic paradox in tuberculous meningitis

The diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TM) is often based on clinical findings due to the difficulty of isolating acid-fast bacilli (AFB) in the CSF.
Herbimycin A and geldanamycin inhibit okadaic acid-induced apoptosis and p38 activation in NRK-52E renal epithelial cells.

It is important to understand the mechanisms by which phosphorylation-dependent events play a role in regulation of apoptosis in toxicant-metabolizing organs such as the kidney. Our previous work demonstrated that the toxicant and phosphatase inhibitor okadaic acid induces apoptosis of renal epithelial cells via a mechanism that appears to involve the modulation of c-raf-1, p38 kinase, and extracellular regulatory kinase (ERK) cascades. Using the benzoquinone ansamycins and tyrosine kinase inhibitors geldanamycin and herbimycin A, we examined the contribution of tyrosine phosphorylation and c-raf-1 activities to okadaic acid-induced apoptosis. In this report we show that both geldanamycin and herbimycin A protected NRK-52E cells from okadaic acid-induced apoptosis, abrogated the overall okadaic acid-induced kinase activation, and specifically inhibited activation of p38 kinase by okadaic acid. Herbimycin A and geldanamycin also abrogated okadaic-acid induced morphologic changes such as cell rounding and cell membrane blebbing. Herbimycin A and geldanamycin caused pronounced cell spreading, cell flattening, and a decrease in okadaic acid-induced loss of actin filaments. Interestingly, herbimycin A showed more potent inhibitory effect than geldanamycin, and herbimycin A alone inhibited okadaic acid-induced movement of p38 kinase into the cytosol. These results imply that decreased p38 activity and its cytosolic translocation together with cellular resistance to cytoskeletal disorganization may play a significant role in resistance to phosphorylation-dependent apoptosis. Furthermore, the results imply that changes in cell shape may partially modulate the observed alterations in signal transduction induced by okadaic acid.
Potential recovery of a declined turtle population diminished by a community shift towards more generalist species

Models suggest that a declined turtle population may rebound if the cause of decline is remedied and adult mortality is reduced, but recovery time will likely be slow. In 2005-2007, we reexamined a river turtle community which included a population of Northern Map Turtles (Graptemys geographica) that had been reduced by approximately 50% between 1969 and 1980 likely as a result of harvesting, and had failed to rebound by 2004 despite no evidence of continued harvesting. Comparisons of population estimates for G. geographica showed no significant differences between 2005 and 2006 (z = 1.79, P = 0.073) or between 2006 and 2007 (z = 1.07, P = 0.284). However, the population estimate for 2007 was not significantly different from the population estimate for 1969 (z = 0.48, P = 0.629) but was significantly higher than the population estimate for 1980 (z = 2.96, P = 0.003), suggesting the population had returned to its pre- decline (1969) size. While the recovery of the G. geographica population demonstrates that a previously harvested river turtle population may rebound if no further harvesting occurs, the recovery period will be extensive, thus confirming model predictions. Furthermore, the turtle community composition was shifting towards a higher relative abundance of generalist species and a lower relative abundance of specialist species - a pattern that can be expected with habitat degradation, another threat which may present new challenges to G. geographica, a dietary specialist.
Reduction of Aortic Wall Motion Inhibits Hypertension-Mediated Experimental Atherosclerosis

Abstract —Hypertension is a well-known risk factor for coronary artery disease and carotid and lower extremity occlusive disease. Surgically induced hypertension in hypercholesterolemic animals results in increased aortic wall motion and increased plaque formation. We tested the hypothesis that reduction in aortic wall motion, despite continued hypertension, could reduce plaque formation. New Zealand White rabbits (n=26) underwent thoracic aortic banding to induce hypertension and were fed an atherogenic diet for 3 weeks. In 13 rabbits, a segment of aorta proximal to an aortic band was externally wrapped to reduce wall motion. All animals were fed an atherogenic diet for 3 weeks. Four groups were studied: 1, coarctation control (no wrap, n=7); 2, coarctation with loose wrap (n=6); 3, coarctation with firm wrap (n=7); and 4, control (noncoarcted, n=6). Wall motion, blood pressure, and pulse pressure were measured at standard reference sites proximal and distal to the coarctation by use of intravascular ultrasound. Quantitative morphometry was used to measure intimal plaque. Mean arterial pressure and cyclic aortic wall motion were equally increased proximal to the aortic coarctation in all 3 coarcted rabbit groups compared with the control group ( P <0.001). Wall motion in the segment of aorta under the loose and firm wraps was no different from the control value. The external wrap significantly reduced intimal thickening in the 4 groups by the following amounts: group 1, 0.30±0.03 mm2; group 2, 0.06±0.02 mm2; group 3, 0.04±0.02 mm2; and group 4, 0.01±0.01 mm2 ( P <0.001). Localized inhibition of aortic wall motion in the lesion-prone hypertensive aorta resulted in significant reduction in intimal plaque formation. These data suggest that arterial wall cyclic motion may stimulate cellular proliferation and lipid uptake in experimental atherosclerosis.
Gender choice and gender conflict in a non-reciprocally mating simultaneous hermaphrodite, the freshwater snail, Physa

Like freshwater pulmonate snails in general, mature Physa heterostropha pomilia (Say) are hermaphroditic but cannot reciprocally inseminate each other simultaneously. One member of a pair assumes the male role and the other the female, after which swapping may occur. The tendency for a pair of prospective copulants to elect the same sexual role was defined as gender conflict, and distinguished from sexual conflict, the more widely noted tendency for females to reject low-quality males. Experiments assessed whether previous reproductive history aVected the likelihood of mating and the sexual role assumed and evaluated the strength of gender and sexual conflicts. Snails were selected from isofemale lines fixed for albinism at two complementary loci. Ten pairings were made involving all combinations of four categories of reproductive history: previously selfing virgin, not previously selfing virgin, previously selfing mated, and not previously selfing mated. Encounter times, evasive behaviours, and polarity of mating were recorded. Results suggested that the probability of initiating copulation as male in any encounter increased with autosperm store, and that snails mounted as female may decrease the overall probability of mating by rejective behaviour when their reserves of allosperm are high. There was no evidence that snails ever use any mechanism to increase their likelihood of being mounted as female. Evasive behaviours observed in encounters between virgin snails were best attributed to male-male gender conflict, but such behaviour patterns seemed to derive from sexual conflict when virgin snails encountered previously mated snails. Male-male gender conflict did not, however, detectably lengthen contact times, lead to bouts of sperm trading or ultimately lower mating success. ? 1996 The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour The tendency for males to be eager to mate, and for females to be more discriminating, has been a familiar observation since the days of Darwin. Bateman (1948) attributed this phenomenon to the intensity of sexual selection acting on males. Although his attention was primarily directed toward dioecious animals, Bateman recognized that sexual selection might also occur in simul- taneously hermaphroditic plants. The theory, as generalized by Charnov (1979), predicts conflict between simultaneous hermaphrodites vying to mate in the male role by virtue of the disparity in the energetic costs of eggs and sperm. The phenomenon of egg trading in such diverse
Neurogenic pulmonary edema

Neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE) is a clinical syndrome characterized by the acute onset of pulmonary edema following a significant central nervous system (CNS) insult. The etiology is thought to be a surge of catecholamines that results in cardiopulmonary dysfunction. A myriad of CNS events, including spinal cord injury, subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), traumatic brain injury (TBI), intracranial hemorrhage, status epilepticus, meningitis, and subdural hemorrhage, have been associated with this syndrome [1–5]. Although NPE was identified over 100 years ago, it is still underappreciated in the clinical arena. Its sporadic and relatively unpredictable nature and a lack of etiologic-specific diagnostic markers and treatment modalities may in part be responsible for its poor recognition at the bedside. In this manuscript, we will review the anatomical origin of NPE, outline the various possible pathophysiologic mechanisms responsible for its development, and propose a clinical framework for the classification of NPE.
Sequence analysis of Escherichia coli O157:H7 bacteriophage ΦV10 and identification of a phage‐encoded immunity protein that modifies the O157 antigen

Bacteriophage PhiV10 is a temperate phage, which specifically infects Escherichia coli O157:H7. The nucleotide sequence of the PhiV10 genome is 39 104 bp long and contains 55 predicted genes. PhiV10 is closely related to two previously sequenced phages, the Salmonella enterica serovar Anatum (Group E1) phage epsilon15 and a prophage from E. coli APEC O1. The attachment site of PhiV10, like those of its two closest relatives, overlaps the 3' end of guaA in the host chromosome. PhiV10 encodes an O-acetyltransferase, which modifies the O157 antigen. This modification is sufficient to block PhiV10 superinfection, indicating that the O157 antigen is most likely the PhiV10 receptor.
MICROBIAL ELICITORS AND THEIR RECEPTORS IN PLANTS

▪ Abstract Elicitors are molecules that stimulate any of a number of defense responses in plants. Research over the past decade has focused on the mechanisms by which plant cells perceive and transduce these biological signals to activate defense responses. Of particular interest has been the identification of specific elicitor-binding proteins that might function as physiological receptors in the signal transduction cascade. The existence of specific high-affinity binding sites has been demonstrated for oligosaccharide, glycopeptide, and peptide elicitors, and candidate elicitor-binding proteins have been identified for several of them. The properties of these binding sites/proteins are consistent with those expected of physiologically important receptors, although experimental verification of the role of these binding proteins as receptors has not yet been obtained. The purification and characterization of specific elicitor-binding proteins is essential for a detailed understanding of the molecular basi...
Percutaneous Pacemaker and Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Lead Extraction in 100 Patients With Intracardiac Vegetations Defined by Transesophageal Echocardiogram

Objectives We describe the feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes of percutaneous lead extraction in patients at a tertiary care center who had intracardiac vegetations identified by transesophageal echocardiogram. Background Infection in the presence of intracardiac devices is a problem of considerable morbidity and mortality. Patients with intracardiac vegetations are at high risk for complications related to extraction and protracted clinical courses. Historically, lead extraction in this cohort has been managed by surgical thoracotomy. Methods We analyzed percutaneous lead extractions performed from January 1991 to September 2007 in infected patients with echocardiographic evidence of intracardiac vegetations, followed by a descriptive and statistical analysis. Results A total of 984 patients underwent extraction of 1,838 leads; local or systemic infection occurred in 480 patients. One hundred patients had intracardiac vegetations identified by transesophageal echocardiogram, and all underwent percutaneous lead extraction (215 leads). Mean age was 67 years. Median extraction time was 3 min per lead; median implant duration was 34 months. During the index hospitalization, a new device was implanted in 54 patients at a median of 7 days after extraction. Post-operative 30-day mortality was 10%; no deaths were related directly to the extraction procedure. Conclusions Patients with intracardiac vegetations identified on transesophageal echocardiogram can safely undergo complete device extraction using standard percutaneous lead extraction techniques. Permanent devices can safely be reimplanted provided blood cultures remain sterile. The presence of intracardiac vegetations identifies a subset of patients at increased risk for complications and early mortality from systemic infection despite device extraction and appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
Interaction cost: for when event counts just don't add up

Most performance analysis tasks boil down to finding bottlenecks. In the context of this article, a bottleneck is any event (for example, branch mispredict, window stall, or arithmetic-logic unit (ALU) operation) that limits performance. Bottleneck analysis is critical to an architect's work, whether the goal is tuning processors for energy efficiency, improving the effectiveness of optimizations, or designing a more balanced processor. Interaction cost helps to improve processor performance and decrease power consumption by identifying when designers can choose among a set of optimizations and when it's necessary to perform them all
The Justice of Mercy

The problem of 'justifying' mercy is old, but it has resurfaced recently in light of debates over "restorative justice" alternatives to state-imposed retributive punishment. We wonder whether a victim/offender reconciliation that does not involve a painful sentence can be just; we wonder whether an executive is ever right to pardon out of compassion; we wonder whether judges should have discretion to sentence leniently in cases where defendants are remorseful, have dependents, are ill, have reformed, or are community heroes. Within the retributive punishment tradition that understands punishment as some form of "just deserts" based on the crime alone, all of these exercises of leniency are illegitimate. This book challenges this orthodoxy at its Kantian conceptual roots, rereading the philosophical tradition to argue that mercy is the prerequisite for just punishment, rather than its nemesis. The first step is taking seriously the idea that humans live with each other in time, not as isolated "reasoners" or "choosers" in a conceptual eternity. From this insight follows an account of law as common law, not universal rules; an account of punishment as a response to wrongs that resettles relationships for the future in conditions of uncertainty; and an understanding of mercy as a fundamental ethical requirement never to give up on each other. By unearthing an alternative to our "just deserts" apologies for a cruel and broken penal system, the hope is that all the rich institutional possibilities imagined by the restorative justice movement will become more conceptually acceptable and available. The book is available through Project Muse website.
Review of "Sustainability of Scholarly Information," by G. G. Chowdhury

Chowdhury has pulled research articles and case studies into a comprehensive book written for students, academics, researchers, and practitioners in information fields that may be of particular int...
Ultralight Interconnected Metal Oxide Nanotube Networks

Record-breaking ultralow density aluminum oxide structures are prepared using a novel templating technique. The alumina structures are unique in that they are comprised by highly aligned and interconnected nanotubes yielding anisotropic behavior. Large-scale network structures with complex form-factors can easily be made using this technique. The application of the low density networks as humidity sensing materials as well as thermal insulation is demonstrated.
ANNIHILATION RADIATION AND GAMMA-RAY CONTINUUM FROM THE GALACTIC CENTER REGION

Observations of the time-dependent, electron-positron annihilation line radiation and gamma-ray continuum emission from the region of the Galactic Center show that there are two components to the annihilation line emission: a variable, compact source at or near the Galactic Center, and a steady, diffuse interstellar distribution. We suggest that the annihilating positrons in the compact source, observed from 1977 through 1979, result from photon-photon pair production, most likely around an accreting black hole, and that the annihilating, interstellar positrons result from the decay of radionuclei produced by thermonuclear burning in supernovae.
Oh, the places you'll go with graphene.

Since the first reported isolation of graphene by peeling graphite with cellophane tape in 2004, there has been a paradigm shift in research. In just nine years, graphene has had a major impact on fields ranging from physics and chemistry to materials science and engineering leading to a host of interdisciplinary advances in nanotechnology. Graphene is attractive because it possesses many extraordinary characteristics that are a direct consequence of its unique atomic structure, as discussed here.For over a decade, our group has been exploring new routes to synthesize graphene so that this potentially important material can be scaled up for use in practical applications. We have made several significant discoveries starting with the synthesis of few-layer graphene from intercalation/exfoliation reactions that upon sonication produce carbon nanoscrolls. Next, we developed high-throughput methods for producing chemically converted graphene from graphene oxide using either aqueous or anhydrous hydrazine. Rec...
Antimicrobial activity and biologic potential of silver-substituted calcium phosphate constructs produced with self-propagating high-temperature synthesis

There is significant demand for synthetic bone substitute materials that can decrease the incidence of implant-based bacterial infections. The intent of this research was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity and biologic potential of calcium phosphate (CaP) constructs substituted with silver (Ag) that were produced via self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS). SHS is a combustion synthesis technique that has successfully generated porous CaP bioceramics intended for use in bone repair. SHS reactions are highly versatile; dopants can be added to the reactant powders to alter product chemistry and morphology. In this research, Ag powder was added to the reactants generating porous CaP constructs containing 0.5, 1, or 2 wt% Ag. Antibacterial performance of the constructs was assessed against Escherichia coli, a representative model for Gram-negative bacteria. Liquid solutions (1 μg/mL) of CaP–Ag particles to phosphate buffered saline were incubated with 105 cells/mL. After 24 h, 10 μL of solution were spread on an LB agar plate and cultured for 24 h at 37 °C. Samples cultured with CaP–Ag showed complete bacterial inhibition while the controls (E. coli only and CaP without Ag) exhibited significant colony formation. The effects of Ag concentration on cytotoxicity and biocompatibility were tested in vitro. At 7 days, osteoblasts uniformly enveloped the CaP–Ag particles and displayed a healthy flattened morphology suggesting the concentrations of Ag incorporated into constructs were not cytotoxic. CaP–Ag constructs produced via SHS represent a source of synthetic bone substitute materials that could potentially inhibit, or reduce the incidence of post-operative bacterial infections.
Viability of Tritrichomonas foetus Following the Freeze-Thaw Cycle Used for Freezing Bovine Semen

Although past research has proven the organism, Tritrichomonas foetus, can survive freezing technologies utilized in the 1950’s, it is unknown if it can survive freezing in liquid nitrogen, the current freezing media for bovine semen. Live organisms were identified after thawing in fiveof the twelve straws evaluated. Between 0.5 and 6 liveorganisms were identified in the samples taken from thesestraws. The number of live organisms within each of these 0.5 mL straws was estimated to be between 25 and 300 live organisms. The ability of T. foetus organisms to survivecurrent freeze-thaw techniques for bovine semen suggeststhat artificial insemination using semen from T. foetuspositive bulls poses a significant risk for spreading thispathogen to other cattle in breeding herds
Application of Piecewise Interpolated Synchronous Algorithm in Digital Substation

In this paper,a piecewise interpolated synchronous algorithm(PISA)was presented to achieve synchronous sampling of digital substations process level,and reducing the system's hardware requirement and improving its reliability.Segmented design for interpolation synchronization algorithm,According to the data linearity,a linear interpolation method or secondary interpolation method was exploited.Max error analysis of each method was given.The realization of the PISA of the process sampling was proposed.Finally,field sampled values accuracy test shows that our algorithm has high synchronous accuracy,and satisfies the requirement of IEC6044-8 Standard of the 0.2S level measurement of electronic instrument transformer.
Materials figure of merit for achromatic gradient index (GRIN) optics

A new figure of merit is developed for ranking pairs of materials as candidates for gradient index (GRIN) optics capable of good color correction. The approach leverages recent work which derives a connection in GRIN lenses between the optical properties of constituent materials and the wavelength dependence of the lens power. We extend the analysis here, the effectiveness of which is evidenced by a simulated f/3 GRIN lens with diffraction-limited performance over the visible spectrum, using the top material pair selected out of a database of >60,000 possible candidates.
Characterization of 300-GHz Wireless Channel on a Computer Motherboard

This paper presents characterization of 300-GHz wireless channel on a computer motherboard, where several different measurement scenarios have been considered. Results indicate that the presence of the ground plane and/or vertical parallel-plate structures in the channel introduces multipath that, if constructively superimposed, may create a path loss lower than free-space propagation path loss. In addition, it has been found that a few centimeters of vertical misalignment between the transmitter and the receiver result in a path loss greater than 5 dB. Furthermore, the results indicate that vertical components such as dual in-line memory modules with reflection coefficient close to one for all incident angles can be used to create directed non-line-of-sight (LoS) links with wide coherence bandwidth. Finally, for LoS propagation obstructed by large objects, such as a heatsink, the path-loss exponent of 1.77 is found, while the rotating fan causes periodic fading in the received power, indicating that channel equalization techniques will be needed to overcome deep fades. All these results indicate that optimal communications can be achieved by carefully positioning the antennas with respect to the motherboard layout.
Application of Hilbert-Huang transform for ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation

In this investigation, the Hilbert-Huang transform (HHT) has been evaluated to characterize the ultrasonic backscattered echoes from materials with different grain sizes and defects. The HHT is a combination of empirical mode decomposition and Hilbert spectrum analysis. First, the ultrasonic signal is decomposed into a series of intrinsic mode functions. Then, based on the Hilbert spectrum of these intrinsic mode functions, a time-frequency representation of the ultrasonic signal is obtained. Furthermore, to demonstrate the application of HHT in ultrasonic signal processing, the performance of HHT has been compared with the results from other time-frequency techniques such as chirplet signal decomposition. Numerical and analytical results indicate that HHT is a unique and effective tool for ultrasonic signal analysis accounting for narrow-band, broad-band, and dispersive echoes. This algorithm can be utilized in the analysis of ultrasonic signals often encountered in flaw detection, signal classification, and pattern recognition.
Muscles and Pelvic Gears: Hip Abductor Inhibition in Anterior Rotation of the Ilium

The nerve irritation syndrome caused by a dysfunction of the thoracic spine and the thoraco-lumbar junction is a typical example of pain referred around the chest and of the abdominal wall simulati...
Adapting substance use motives measures for a clinical population of opiate, alcohol, and stimulant users

AbstractBackground: Understanding underlying mechanisms that lead to substance use can provide insight into targets for treatment. A wealth of research has evaluated substance use motives as one such mechanism. However, popular motive measures are substance-specific and developed within a younger, non-clinical population. The current study utilizes a mixed-method approach to modify existing measures for use with a clinical polysubstance-using population and evaluates relationships with measures of use and problems by substance of choice.Methods: Participants (n = 120) were recruited from a 28-day inpatient Veterans Affairs program. Fourteen patients participated in Phase 1 focus groups to discuss underlying reasons for use and changes in motives over time and progression into hazardous use. The motives scale was adapted based on participant responses. In Phase 2, 106 participants reported on motives and other indices of use.Results: Results supported an 8-factor measure with the following subscales: to he...
Stabilization of interconnected switched control-affine systems via a Lyapunov-based small-gain approach

We study the feedback stabilization of interconnected switched control-affine systems with both input-to-state stable (ISS) and non-ISS modes. Provided that the switching is slow in the sense of average dwell-time and the active time of non-ISS modes is short in proportion, suitable feedback controls are designed to achieve input-to-state practical stability (ISpS) with an arbitrarily small constant. We devise such feedback controls by extending a previous small-gain theorem on stability of interconnected switched systems to the ISpS context, and proposing a novel Lyapunov-based gain-assignment scheme.
On a class of bilevel linear mixed-integer programs in adversarial settings

We consider a class of bilevel linear mixed-integer programs (BMIPs), where the follower’s optimization problem is a linear program. A typical assumption in the literature for BMIPs is that the follower responds to the leader optimally, i.e., the lower-level problem is solved to optimality for a given leader’s decision. However, this assumption may be violated in adversarial settings, where the follower may be willing to give up a portion of his/her optimal objective function value, and thus select a suboptimal solution, in order to inflict more damage to the leader. To handle such adversarial settings we consider a modeling approach referred to as $$\alpha $$ -pessimistic BMIPs. The proposed method naturally encompasses as its special classes pessimistic BMIPs and max–min (or min–max) problems. Furthermore, we extend this new modeling approach by considering strong-weak bilevel programs, where the leader is not certain if the follower is collaborative or adversarial, and thus attempts to make a decision by taking into account both cases via a convex combination of the corresponding objective function values. We study basic properties of the proposed models and provide numerical examples with a class of the defender–attacker problems to illustrate the derived results. We also consider some related computational complexity issues, in particular, with respect to optimistic and pessimistic bilevel linear programs.
All acrylic-based thermoplastic elastomers with high upper service temperature and superior mechanical properties

All acrylic-based thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) offer potential alternatives to the widely-used styrenic TPEs. However, the high entanglement molecular weight (Me) of polyacrylates, as compared to polydienes, leads to “disappointing” mechanical performance as compared to styrenic TPEs. In this study, triblock copolymers composed of alkyl acrylates with different pendant groups and different glass transition temperatures (Tgs), i.e. 1-adamatyl acrylate (AdA) and tetrahydrofurfuryl acrylate (THFA), were synthesized via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. Thermal characterization of the resulting polymers was performed using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and the Tgs of both segments were observed for the block copolymers. This indication of microphase separation behavior was further demonstrated using atomic-force microscopy (AFM) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that the softening temperature of the PAdA domains is 123 °C, which is higher than that of both styrenic TPEs and commercial acrylic based TPEs with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) hard block. The resulting triblock copolymers also exhibited stress–strain behavior superior to that of conventional all acrylic-based TPEs composed of PMMA and poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) made by controlled radical processes, while the tensile strength was lower than for products made by living anionic polymerization.
Beware the laboratory report: discrepancy in variant classification on reproductive carrier screening.

Beware the laboratory report: discrepancy in variant classification on reproductive carrier screening
Immune checkpoint inhibitor colitis: the flip side of the wonder drugs.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors block the co-inhibitory receptors on T cells to activate their cytotoxic immune function and are rapidly being explored for the treatment of various advanced-stage malignancies. These novel drugs have already significantly increased survival rates. The first available immune checkpoint inhibitors were cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) inhibitors (such as ipilimumab), followed by programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and programmed cell death protein ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors (such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab). Anti-PD-1 and anti-PD-L1 therapies have demonstrated better efficacy and tolerability and less severe adverse effects compared to anti-CTLA-4 agents. Idelalisib, a PI3Kδ isoform inhibitor, is another immunotherapeutic agent that is often classified separately and is currently used in treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Despite successful therapeutic responses, immune-related adverse events have been reported with the use of these agents. The gastrointestinal side effects, particularly diarrhea, are among the most commonly reported symptoms. The histologic features of immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated colitis show a spectrum of patterns of injury among various drug classes. There is significant overlap between immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated colitis and other colitides, making the differential diagnosis difficult—especially in the absence of clinical history. The histopathology data on immune checkpoint inhibitor-associated colitis are limited. Here we review clinical features as well as various histologic patterns of colitis associated with these groups of medications.
Correlations of normality and nervousness with cardiovascular functions in pointer dogs

Methylphenidate, 0.5 mg/kg, injected intravenously, was used in 10 normal (A line) and 10 genetically nervous (E line) dogs in a blind-design experiment to aid in prediction, from cardiovascular recordings alone, of behavioral normalityversus nervousness. The prediction was 75 per cent correct, based on heart rate (HR), form of the electrocardiogram (EKG), pattern of sinus arrhythmia, and pattern of HR response to methylphenidate. Nervous dogs were found to have slower baseline HR’s, delayed return of HR to baseline after methylphenidate, greater occurrence of baseline EKG abnormalities and much greater frequency of these after methylphenidate. Degree of nervousness was found to correlate rather highly (1)negatively with baseline HR level, (2)negatively with speed of BP response, and (3)positively with frequency of some of the EKG manifestations. These data, indicative of a relative inertness of physiological functions of nervous pointer dogs compared with normal pointers, are consistent with the behavioral and some of the biochemical findings previously reported.
Re-ordering the Heavenly Spheres

In Chap. 10 of Book I, Copernicus begins to lay out detailed arguments in defense of his heliocentric world-view. After summarizing the opinions of the ancients, he carefully reconsiders what the apparent motions, sizes and orbital periods of the planets can tell us about their arrangement. Except where marked otherwise, the generous footnotes which supplement this text were written by the translator, Charles GlennWallis, to explain how Copernicus might have carried out some of his calculations. In addition to focusing on the technical aspects of this rather challenging text, you might consider: what role do the ideas of simplicity, beauty and dignity play in Copernicus’world-view? Do you think that these are appropriate criteria for establishing scientific theories? If not, then what are the most important criteria?
Energy Homeostasis: Visceral Control

Neural networks operating as physiological control systems regulate energy homeostasis. These networks are organized as distributed cross-linked control loops. The loops interconnect central and peripheral mechanisms and coordinate their functions. The pathways comprising the networks include both the visceral neuraxis, which spans from colon to cortex, and the somatomotor systems involved in energy intake and expenditure. The peripheral circuitry of energy homeostasis not only transmits simple afferent and efferent information, but it also integrates simultaneously the multiplicity of signals that reflect short-term and long-term energy status. Many of the neurons of the distributed architecture of the control systems express receptors for different gut and adipose tissue hormones, paracrine factors, metabolic signals, and cytokines. Such signals modulate, amplify, or synergize with the afferent and efferent traffic carried by the circuits of energy homeostasis.
Prevalence of cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, hearing loss, and blindness, National Health Interview Survey, 2009–2016

Abstract Background Developmental disabilities are present in a significant proportion of US children. Surveillance of developmental disabilities is crucial for monitoring population trends, guiding research into risk factors, and informing resource allocation. Objective/Hypothesis We examined overall prevalence, prevalence by demographic characteristics, and trends over time for cerebral palsy (CP), intellectual disability (ID), moderate to severe hearing loss (MSHL), and blindness. Methods Data from the 2009–2016 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were analyzed for children 3–17 years of age. Question wording was consistent over time except for ID, which changed in 2011 to replace the term “mental retardation.” Demographic differences and linear trends (over three time periods) were assessed by Chi-square tests and Wald-F tests. Results Prevalence estimates per 1000 children ages 3–17 years for CP, ID, MSHL, and blindness were 3.2 (95% CI: 2.7, 3.7), 11.1 (95% CI: 10.2, 12.1), 6.4 (95% CI: 5.6, 7.2), and 1.6 (95% CI: 1.3, 2.0), respectively. Disability prevalence was higher for children with low birthweight and from families of lower parental education, income ≤200% of federal poverty level, and public insurance. Older children had higher ID prevalence; boys had significantly higher CP and ID prevalences. Only ID demonstrated a significantly increased trend over time (p = 0.0002). Conclusions We provide nationally representative prevalence estimates for four developmental disabilities; recent estimates are comparable to those from records-based studies. Prevalences were stable except for ID, which increased after 2010, coincident with the questionnaire change. A substantial number of US children continue to have these disabilities and service needs.
Destruction of atmospheric ozone at the ocean surface

A procedure is suggested for the evaluation of the reaction constantK of the destruction of atmospheric ozone at the earth's surface. The method is applicable when the ozone profile on one hand, and the wind speed at a fixed level on the other hand, are measured simultaneously; a logarithmic wind profile is assumed. An application of this method to some of the ozone profiles recently published by Tiefenau and Fabian leads toK ∼ 0.1 cm/sec at the surface of the ocean. This value, if confirmed by measurements at other locations, would require an upward revision of current estimates of the global flux of atmospheric ozone into the earth.
Gene Flow in Carrot

In this chapter, we first present characteristics of carrots that will affect gene flow and discuss dispersal via pollen by insect pollinators and via seeds by wind and animals. Although carrot is often referred to as a biennial, we introduce the various life history strategies observed in wild carrot populations as these can impact population growth and the range expansion of wild carrots over the landscape. We then review the studies of gene flow between crops, between crop and wild carrot and among wild carrot populations, concentrating on studies that used molecular markers. The consequences of these different types of gene flow (among cultivars, between crop and wild, and among wild) are then discussed. A major goal of biotechnology risk assessment for crops is to improve predictions of the fate of escaped genes either to other crop fields or to wild populations. We suggest as a priority for future studies to incorporate population dynamics with population genetics when modeling the fate of introduced genes. Improving our understanding of the factors that affect the spread of escaped genes will lead to the design of better management strategies to contain and limit their spread.
Preparation of aminated taxol side chain precursors. A Simple Approach to 2,3-Diamond Acids Using the β-Lactam Synthon Method.

Abstract Coupling-ready aminated side chain analog precursors of the anticancer drug taxol were prepared through the β-lactam synthon method. The procedure described represents an easy connection between β-lactams and 2,3-diamino acids, is highly stereospecific, and causes no racemization due to vicinal group participation.