cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chemical bath deposition synthesis of sub-micron ZnS-coated polystyrene

The synthesis of ZnS-coated polystyrene composite colloids by the decomposition of thioacetamide in the presence of polystyrene seed particles and metal salt is presented. The chemical bath deposition technique incorporates poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) to inhibit particle aggregation during the synthesis so that core-shell particles with sizes in the low sub-micron range were achieved. The shell thickness was well controlled through the reaction time and core size. ZnS shells were composed of primary crystallites, approximately 5 nm in diameter, which had the zinc blend crystal structure. The porosity of the shells was between 12 and 19%. Accordingly, the effective refractive index of the particles varied between 1.73 and 1.98 at wavelengths above the optical absorption edge of ZnS. Ordered colloidal crystals were produced by convective assembly of the poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) stabilized core-shell particles. Assemblies of ZnS shell-polystyrene core particles are photonic crystal materials which may have applications in optical computing and communications environments.
N6-functionalized congeners of adenosine with high potency at A2-adenosine receptors: potential ligands for affinity chromatography.

Abstract Adenosine analogues substituted at N 6 with spacer arms designed for attachment to soluble macromolecules or to solid supports for affinity chromatography are agonists at the A 2 -adenosine receptor that mediates coronary vasodilation in the dog. The most active analogues had spacer arms terminating in NH 2 , NHCH 3 or in a biotin residue. Comparisons of coronary vasoactivity with affinity for brain A 1 adenosine receptors identified one biotin-containing analogue as relatively selective for coronary A 2 receptors. The complex of this analogue with avidin retained coronary vasoactivity.
Unitary Propagators for Time-Dependent Hamiltonians with Singular Potentials

Abstract We prove that a unitary propagator U ( t, s ) for the time-dependent Schrodinger equation du / dt = iH ( t ) u exists in L 2 ( R ), where H ( t ) = −Δ + ∑ N i =1 c i V ( x − v i t ), c i , v i ∈ R , v i ≠ v j for i ≠ j , and V is a distribution with bounded Fourier transform. This extends earlier work with I. Segal on the time-independent case. Such Hamiltonians include, for example, the case of finitely many moving delta potentials. We also apply a method of Segal to study singular time-dependent perturbations of (1/ i )( d / dx ) in one space dimension and their corresponding unitary propagators, and show that the propagator depends continuously on the potential in a suitable sense.
Alkoxy Radical Isomerization in the OH Radical-Initiated Reactions of C4−C8 n-Alkanes

Isomerizations of the alkoxy radicals formed from the OH radical reactions with n-butane through n-octane and n-pentane-d12 through n-octane-d18 have been studied in the presence of NO at 296 ± 2 K and 740 Torr total pressure of air. In addition to carbonyls of the same carbon number as the alkane precursors, the previously predicted δ-hydroxycarbonyls were detected by direct air sampling atmospheric pressure ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. The formation yields of carbonyl compounds containing the same number of carbons as the parent n-alkane decreased with increasing carbon number in the n-alkane, while the hydroxycarbonyl/carbonyl formation yield ratios increased markedly from n-butane through n-octane, in agreement with previous theoretical predictions.
State Regulation of Occupational Activity

The vocational counselor needs to be informed of the restrictions imposed by government on occupational activities. He must help youth to prepare to meet these specifications which are becoming more numerous. This investigation of the statutes of Pennsylvania may suggest inquiries into the regulation of occupations in other states.
Imaging skin pathology with polarized light

Linearly polarized light that illuminates skin is backscattered by superficial layers and rapidly depolarized by birefringent collagen fibers. It is possible to distinguish such superficially backscattered light from the total diffusely reflected light that is dominated by light penetrating deeply into the dermis. The method involves acquisition of two images through an analyzing linear polarizer in front of the camera, one image (I(par)) acquired with the analyzer oriented parallel to the polarization of illumination and one image (I(per)) acquired with the analyzer oriented perpendicular to the illumination. An image based on the polarization ratio, Pol=(I(par)-I(per))/(I(par)+I(per)), is created. This paper compares normal light images, represented by I(per), and Pol images of various skin pathologies in a pilot clinical study using incoherent visible-spectrum light. Images include pigmented skin sites (freckle, tattoo, pigmented nevi) and unpigmented skin sites [nonpigmented intradermal nevus, neurofibroma, actinic keratosis, malignant basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, vascular abnormality (venous lake), burn scar]. Images of a shadow cast from a razor blade onto a forearm skin site illustrate the behavior of Pol values near the shadow edge. Near the shadow edge, Pol approximately doubles in value because no I(per) photons are superficially scattered into the shadow-edge pixels by the shadow region while I(par) photons are directly backscattered from the superficial layer of these pixels. This result suggests that the point spread function in skin for cross-talk between Pol pixels has a half-width-half-max of about 390 microm.
Clopidogrel's role in the management of atherosclerotic disease: a focus on acute coronary syndromes.

Recent advances in our understanding of the role of the platelet in the atherosclerotic process beyond the acute formation of arterial blood clots, such as inflammation, have highlighted the role of antiplatelet agents as being much more than just ‘blood thinners.’ Some of the most important cardiovascular trials performed in the last 20 years have studied antiplatelet therapies. However, despite their long history, current global health implications and proven benefit, there remain substantial gaps in our understanding as to how to best utilize the limited number of antiplatelet agents available. This article will discuss the mechanism of action of the antiplatelet class known as thienopyridines, the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of the thienopyridine agent clopidogrel (Plavix®, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Sanofi Pharmaceuticals) as well as the literature supporting its clinical benefits and areas of ongoing research that will help clarify the optimal utilization of clopidogrel for the treatment of ...
Entre Judith Butler en disputa y Deshacer a Judith Butler

Resenha de SOLEY-BELTRAN, Patricia e SABSAY, Leticia (editoras). Judith Butler en disputa: Lecturas sobre la performatividad. Barcelona y Madrid, Egales, 2012. Recebida para publicacao em 6 de janeiro de 2013, aceita em 1o de fevereiro de 2013.
Cardiac varix presenting as a right atrial mass

A cardiac varix is an unusual tumor of vascular origin that is rarely discovered antemortem. Here, we report the incidental finding of this lesion in the right atrium of a patient with concomitant prostate cancer. (J Card Surg 2011;26:164-165)
Time Resolved Concentration Measurements in an Axial Flow Mixer

Experimental results are reported providing information on the downstream mixing evolution in axial pipe flow mixers where a scalar is introduced into the pipe via a coaxial injection tube. Experiments were conducted in a 25.4 mm diameter water pipe flow loop (25,700> R 28,500), in which a fluorescein dye was coaxially injected. The injection tube diameter was 1.5 mm. Three velocity ratios, V = 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 were explored, where V =V /V . The present results indicate that the effects of velocity ratio on the scalar concentration statistics are mainly evident in the first several outer pipe diameters downstream. In the far field, velocity ratio effects are shown to be insignificant on the concentration statistics. All cases showed a similar trend of an initial increase in variance at the centerline as the injected fluid begins mixing with the main pipe flow. This is followed by a region of rapid "exponential-like" decay, followed by a much slower decay rate after approximately 50 pipe diameters. Space-time correlations of the scalar concentration between far field locations verify the low wavenumber motions as predicted by the recent theory of Kerstein and McMurtry [A. Kerstein and P. McMurtry, "Low-wave-number statistics of randomly advected passive scalars," Phys. Rev. E 50, 2057 (1994)], and are consistent with the slower than exponential downstream mixing rate. Copyright © 2004 by ASME. D R R jet main
Development of Tenebrio molitor in low oxygen levels

Abstract Tenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera) were reared from eggs to adults in 21, 15 and 10.5% oxygen at one atmosphere total pressure (remainder nitrogen). Larvae reared in 10.5% oxygen grew more slowly than larvae reared in higher levels of oxygen (size per unit time). Timing of moulting was independent of oxygen level. Larvae reared in 10.5% oxygen underwent a greater total number of moults than larvae in higher levels of oxygen, but all larvae reached the same final larval size. The sex ratio of surviving pupae was 1:1 in 21% oxygen, but a significantly greater proportion of females were found in lower oxygen levels. Mortality was higher and developmental abnormalities were more common in lower oxygen levels. The experimental oxygen levels were not low enough to influence the rate of oxygen uptake, yet oxygen level affected the growth rate, sex ratio and mortality of these larvae. This paper suggests that maintenance of a “normal” rate of oxygen uptake is not a sufficient indication of unchanged physiological state; oxygen-independence of the rate of oxygen uptake is not equivalent to oxygen-independence of the animal.
The effect of multidrug-resistance 1 gene versus neo transduction on ex vivo and in vivo expansion of rhesus macaque hematopoietic repopulating cells

Transduction of murine stem cells with a multidrug-resistance 1 gene (MDR1) retrovirus results in dramatic ex vivo and in vivo expansion of repopulating cells accompanied by a myeloproliferative disorder. Given the use of MDR1-containing vectors in human trials, investigations have been extended to nonhuman primates. Peripheral blood stem cells from 2 rhesus monkeys were collected, CD34-enriched, split into 2 portions, and transduced with either MDR1 vectors or neo vectors and continued in culture for a total of 10 days before reinfusion. At engraftment, the copy number in granulocytes was extremely high from both MDR vectors and neo vectors, but the copy number fell to 0.01 to 0.05 for both. There were no perturbations of the leukocyte count or differential noted. After 3 cycles of stem cell factor/granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, there were no changes in the levels of MDR1 vector- or neo vector-containing cells. There was no evidence for expansion of MDR1 vector-transduced cells. Long-term engraftment with MDR1 vector- and neo vector-transduced cells occurred despite prolonged culture.
Interventional Radiology: Management of the Pregnant Patient

This article reviews a practical approach to managing the dose of ionizing radiation during IR procedures where the patient is, or might be pregnant.
A bouncing wavepacket: finite-wall and resonance effects

Abstract The motion of a quantum particle bouncing on a hard surface under the influence of gravity is considered, including effects arising from the repulsive barrier's finite height and width. The possible effect of tunnelling resonances is illustrated. The analytical approach is based on the WKB approximation and on the study of the phase shift experienced by the particle's wavefunction upon reflection at the barrier. The results of `exact' numerical calculations are also shown.
Ascaris suum: immunoelectrophoretic analysis of antigens in developmental stages.

Abstract Developmental stages of Ascaris suum and related metabolic substances (hatching fluid and larval secretions and excretions) were examined by immunoelectrophoretic analysis (IEA) for their antigenic components. A minimum of 12, 13, 14, 12, 19, and 21 antigens were found in soluble extracts of undeveloped eggs, first stage larvae (14-day embryonated eggs), infective eggs, hatched second-stage larvae, male adults, and female adults, respectively. Stage-specific antigens were identified in undeveloped eggs, first-stage larvae (eggs), infective eggs, and adults by IEA and antibody absorption. A minimum of five antigenic components were found in hatching fluid. These same components were found in unstimulated infective eggs but not in other egg stages.
Exposure to deoxynivalenol, Ht-2 and T-2 toxins by consumption of wheat-based product in southern Brazil

Abstract Trichothecenes are a group of mycotoxins found in wheat infected by Fusarium fungi during cultivation. Wheat flour is one of the main vehicles for mycotoxin introduction into the industrial environment, and is raw material of various bakery products, such as pasta, cakes, breads and biscuits. The objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of DON, HT-2 and T-2 toxins in Cracker biscuits produced in southern Brazil. For this purpose, the method for simultaneous determination of trichothecenes DON, HT-2 and T-2 toxins was standardized. The determination of trichothecenes A and B was carried out by HPLC-DAD, using ACN: H 2 O (96:4, v/v) as mobile phase. The recoveries of DON, HT-2 and T-2 toxins in biscuits were 99%, 84%, and 81%, whose matrix effect increased the signal by 14%, 3%, and 10%, respectively. The study showed that 18 of 23 samples were contaminated with DON (378–5295 μg kg −1 ); of which 22% were above the maximum limit established by Brazilian law. The T-2 and HT-2 toxins were not detected in the samples. Considering the contamination the maximum DON level that can be ingested through the consumption of Cracker biscuits is 0.08 μg kg −1 body weight per day. These results demonstrate the importance in establishing the actual consumption of wheat based products in Brazil, since these products are widely consumed by different age groups of the population.
The War on Terror and Contemporary U.S.-European Relations

This article examines the evolution of the Bush Administration’s foreign policy approach and assesses how that evolution has affected European-American relations in the recent past and how it may affect ties in the future. The twin concepts of a conceptual gap and an action gap between America and Europe over U.S. foreign policy are utilized as organizing themes. The former refers to the gap between Europe and America over the assumptions that govern U.S. foreign policy behavior; the latter refers to the gap in the policy behavior of these parties. The so-called “war on terror” serves as the principal reference point in discussing these gaps. The article’s conclusion is ultimately an optimistic one. A conceptual gap in foreign policy will likely remain between Western Europe (and much of the European Union) and America, but the action gap between the two sides has already narrowed and will likely continue to do so.
Use of Misoprostol for Management of Unsatisfactory Colposcopy in the Adolescent: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract Study Objective To document the ability to use a prostaglandin analogue to achieve satisfactory colposcopy in a patient with cervical stenosis and unsatisfactory colposcopy. Design Case report. Results Satisfactory colposcopy was achieved by using 100 mg of Misoprostol orally, administered the night before the planned colposcopic evaluation. Conclusion In the presence of persistent atypia in an adolescent female with an unsatisfactory colposcopy, consider using a prostaglandin analogue for adequate evaluation of the endocervix, prior to proceeding with an ablative or excisional therapy.
Crystal structure, crystallization kinetics and morphology of a new polyimide

A new semicrystalline polyimide has been synthesized from 3,3′,4,4′-benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride and 2,2-dimethyl-1,3-(4-aminophenoxy)propane. The polymer has a high glass transition temperature of 230°C and a melting temperature of 325°C. Its overall crystallization rate between 240 and 325°C is quite fast (t1/2<10min) and relatively insensitive to the crystallization temperature. Although the degree of crystallinity obtained is dependent on the crystallization conditions, it can be as high as 50%. The polymer's morphology, which was examined with transmission electron microscopy (TEM), has a randomly stacked, ribbon-like, lamellar texture. Both TEM and polarized light microscopy show that mature spherulites do not develop. The crystal unit cell, which was determined from wide-angle X-ray diffraction measurements on highly oriented films, is monoclinic with a = 0.960nm, b = 0.582nm, c = 2.46nm and γ = 81.1°.
Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps is characterized by B-cell inflammation and EBV-induced protein 2 expression.

Background Despite the high prevalence and morbidity of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), little is known about the mechanisms that underlie its pathogenesis. Recent studies have suggested that B cells might play an important role in CRS. Objective We sought to thoroughly characterize B lineage cells within sinus tissues of patients with CRS and healthy control subjects and to determine whether levels of EBV-induced protein 2, which is known to play an important role in the development of B-cell responses, were increased in patients with CRS. Methods Cells isolated from sinus tissues of patients with CRS and healthy control subjects were characterized by means of flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Local production of antibodies was measured in tissue extracts, nasal lavage fluid, and sera by using multiplex bead arrays and ELISA. Quantitative RT-PCR, ELISA, and Western blotting were used to assess gene and protein expression from tissue extracts. Results Nasal polyps (NPs) from patients with CRS had increased levels of both B cells and plasma cells compared with uncinate tissue from healthy control subjects ( P P P Conclusion B cells and plasma cells are enriched in NPs, actively produce antibodies locally, and might contribute to chronic inflammation in patients with CRS. Elucidating the mechanisms that underlie this excessive local B-cell response might provide novel insights for the development of improved therapeutic strategies.
Energy transfer in unsymmetrical phenylene ethynylene dendrimers.

We have applied the fluorescence upconversion technique to explore the electronic excitation energy transfer in unsymmetrical phenylene ethynylene dendrimers. Steady-state emission spectra show that the energy transfer from the dendrons to the core is highly efficient. Ultrafast time-resolved fluorescence measurements are performed at various excitation wavelengths to explore the possibility of assigning absorption band structures to exciton localizations. We propose a kinetic model to describe the time-resolved data. Independent of the excitation wavelength, a typical rise-time value of 500 fs is measured for the fluorescence in the dendrimer without an energy trap, indicating initial delocalized excitation. While absorption is into delocalized exciton states, emission occurs from localized states. When an energy trap such as perylene is introduced on the dendrimer, varying the excitation wavelength yields different energy-transfer rates, and the excitation energy migrates to the trap through two channel...
Theory of Bremsstrahlung and Pair Production. II. Integral Cross Section for Pair Production

The differential cross section for bremsstrahlung and pair production at high energies obtained in the preceding paper by Bethe and Maximon has been integrated over all angles, and formulas are given for the integral cross section for all $Z$. For small $Z$, the correction to the Born approximation is proportional to ${Z}^{2}$, and the constant of proportionality is given. The correction for heavier elements is somewhat less than the ${Z}^{2}$ law would indicate. It is shown that the correction is associated only with large recoil momenta of the nucleus whereas screening is important only for small recoil momenta; and, therefore, the same correction is valid in the case of complete, incomplete, or no screening. Agreement of these new predictions with observations of pair-production cross section at 88 and 280 Mev is excellent and not unreasonable at 17.6 Mev.
Tunable graphene-based dual-frequency cross polarization converters

In this paper, we proposed a novel cross-polarization converter that simultaneously works at two frequencies in the reflection mode, which is constructed of an L-shape perforated graphene sheet printed on a dielectric spacer backed by a gold layer. For the normal incidence, the optical rotation at these two working frequencies originates from the simultaneous excitation of both eigenmodes characterized as the localized surface plasmon resonances. In addition, both working frequencies can be tuned within a large frequency range by varying the Fermi energy of the graphene, which opens up tremendous opportunities to develop voltage-controlled tunable devices at mid-IR frequencies.
Rf sputter deposition of YBa2Cu3O7−x superconducting thin films

Abstract Thin films of the superconductor YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7−x have been prepared using reactive rf diode sputtering. The films were deposited on a variety of substrates including single crystal Al 2 O 3 (1102), LiNbO 3 (100), and polycrystalline SrTiO 3 , with and without buffer layers. Superconducting transition temperatures with onset at 85°K and zero resistance at 54°K have been achieved with films deposited on Al 2 O 3 with a Ag buffer layer.
Economic factors in cancer palliation—methodologic considerations

The role of economic factors in the care of cancer patients has been receiving increasing attention in recent years (l-3) as it has become increasingly apparent in most health care systems that health care resources are not unlimited. There is greater demand for health care personnel, time, facilities, equipment and money than there is supply. Because of this imbalance decisions must be made regarding allocation of available resources and it is important that health care professionals understand how economic factors are evaluated, the role they play in health care decision making and the limitations of their contributions to the health care decisionmaking process. Decisions about resource allocation may either be made explicitly, after consideration of all relevant factors, including cost, or they may be made on an ad hoc basis. When the latter approach is taken, those most able to pay are more likely to receive care in user-pay systems whereas a first-come, first-served approach is likely to be taken in publically funded systems. In either situation, scarce health care resources will probably be allocated to marginally useful procedures for some patients at the same time that highly effective (and affordable) treatment is denied to others, It is only when resource allocation decisions are made explicitly, and economic factors considered directly, that the most equitable distribution of resources possible can be achieved. Even when there is agreement that economic factors should be incorporated into health care decisions, these factors should never be taken in isolation. Other factors that should be considered include treatment efficacy/effectiveness, treatment toxicity and effect on quality of life, availability of resources for treatment administration, acceptability of treatment (and non-treatment) to patients, health care professionals and society, societal and political preferences (e.g. that children should receive more than their ‘share’ of health care resources) and individual physician and patient preferences (4). The latter are most relevant when treatment decisions are being made for individual patients and they may lead to conflicfs between clinicians and policy makers. Health care professionals are often uncomfortable when asked to examine the
Representation of Argumentation in Text with Rhetorical Structure Theory

Various argumentation analysis tools permit the analyst to represent functional components of an argument (e.g., data, claim, warrant, backing), how arguments are composed of subarguments and defenses against potential counterarguments, and argumentation schemes. In order to facilitate a study of argument presentation in a biomedical corpus, we have developed a hybrid scheme that enables an analyst to encode argumentation analysis within the framework of Rhetorical Structure Theory (RST), which can be used to represent the discourse structure of a text. This paper describes the hybrid representation scheme and illustrates its use for investigation of contexts that license omission of elements of an argument. The analyses given in the paper involve reconstruction of enthymemes. Defeasible argumentation schemes serve as a constraint on reconstruction. In addition, the examples illustrate several other types of contextual constraints on reconstruction of enthymemes.
Civil Religion, George W. Bush's Divine Mission, and an Ethics of Mission

AbstractThis paper explores George W. Bush's presentation of a US mission in his two Inaugural Addresses and six State of the Union Addresses. This articulation of mission as a divinely ordained plan to bring freedom to the rest of the world is placed within the context of other presentations of the US mission by past presidents. This history of US mission is compared to a shift in US civil religion described by Michael E. Bailey and Kristin Lindholm in their article, "Tocqueville and the Rhetoric of Civil Religion in the Presidential Inaugural Addresses." The final section of the paper offers an ethical analysis of two aspects of Bush's divine mission. First, Bush's rhetorical use of "freedom" is examined and it is argued that his use of the term as an idea that is simple, obvious, and uncontestable is unavoidably manipulative. Second, Bush's notion of mission itself is critiqued in light of the lessons learned in the field of missiology. It is argued that Bush's mission is similar to the older model of ...
The role of dopamine and serotonin receptors in the mediation of the ethanol interoceptive cue.

The drug discrimination paradigm was used to evaluate the contribution of dopamine or serotonin receptors in the mediation of the stimulus properties of ethanol. Briefly, rats were trained to discriminate between ethanol (600 mg/kg, IP) and water vehicle. Dose-response relationships were observed for ethanol and rats were tested with various dopamine and serotonin receptor agonists and antagonists. The specific dopamine receptor agonists SKF 38393 (DA1) and LY 171555 (DA2) failed to produce appreciable ethanol-like stimulus effects. Furthermore, the dopamine receptor antagonists SCH 23390 (DA1) and haloperidol (DA2) did not affect ethanol-appropriate responding when administered in combination with the training dose of ethanol. A number of specific serotonergic receptor ligands were also tested. Quipazine, 5-MeODMT, buspirone, 8-OH-DPAT elicited intermediate ethanol-like stimulus properties in rats. The serotonin receptor blockers pizotifen, pirenperone and (−)propranolol were ineffective in blocking the interoceptive cue produced by 600 mg/kg ethanol. However, TFMPP produced strong ethanol-like discriminative properties and completely substituted for the training dose of ethanol. These results indicate that the stimulus properties of TFMPP are similar to those of a low dose of ethanol.
Performance Assessment and Actuator Design of a Flexible Tail Propulsor in an Artificial Alligator

The overall objective of this research is to develop analysis tools for determining actuator requirements and viable actuator technology for design of a flexible tail propulsor in an artificial alligator. A simple hydrodynamic model that includes both reactive and resistive forces along the tail is proposed and the calculated mean thrust agrees well with conventional estimates of drag. Using the hydrodynamic model forces as an input, studies are performed for a 1.5 m alligator having 5 antagonistic pairs of actuators distributed along the length of the tail. As a result of the large amplitude of the tail motion, large actuator forces and strains are required for an alligator swimming at speeds 0.3 to 1.8 body lengths/s. Several smart materials are considered for the actuation system, and preliminary analysis results indicate that the acrylic electroactive polymer and the flexible matrix composite actuators are potential artificial muscle technologies for the system.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Context-dependent tree-structured image classification using the QDA distortion measure and the hidden Markov model

Vector quantization based on the Gauss mixture model (GMM) and the quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA) distortion measure has been shown to perform well in statistical image classification problems. Previous work in this area has concentrated on designing a separate GMM-based vector quantizer using the QDA distortion measure for each class using full search. We design a single vector quantizer for all classes using a tree-structured algorithm based on the (generalized) BFOS algorithm. This reduces the search complexity, while it increases the correct classification rate. Further, the pruning stage of our algorithm takes into account the dependencies between the image blocks assuming a hidden Markov model (HMM). During the test stage, our algorithm aims to iteratively maximize the joint probability of occurrence of all image blocks based on the HMM. Our simulation results indicate that our algorithm performs better (both in terms of computational complexity and classification rate) when compared to the previously published algorithms based on the GMM.
Rapid design and manufacture of wearable computers

dvances in computa-tional science and engi-neering have changedprofoundly both theartifacts we can realizeand the processes bywhich we realize them.This article looks at theimpact of these new technologies on the design ofwearable computers covering three main areas: newdesign tools and approaches, new manufacturingtechnologies, and new uses of information technolo-gies. We will show how we at the Engineering DesignResearch Center (EDRC) at Carnegie Mellon haveused the wearable computer project as a testbed inwhich to integrate research on rapid design and man-ufacturing. In our research, we have designed, manu-factured, and used our own tools as well as observingtheir use by others----where the tools include wearablecomputers, design analysis programs, and informa-tion organization tools. Through this process, wehave learned about design education and designpractice, and we have uncovered new issues fordesign research.
Reparative praxis: Rethinking the catastrophe that is social science

(1992). Reparative praxis: Rethinking the catastrophe that is social science. Theory Into Practice: Vol. 31, Qualitative Issues in Educational Research, pp. 173-180.
Activation of C-JUN N-terminal kinase (JNK) in mouse liver during hemorrhagic shock

Methods: Male mice were hemorrhaged to a mean arterial pressure of 25mmHg and sacrificed at 30 minute intervals from 0.5 to 2 hrs (3 animals per time point). Other animals were subjected to a mean arterial pressure of 25mmHg for 2.5 hrs., resuscitated with shed blood and crystalloid, and sacrificed at 30 minute intervals from 0.5 to 4 hrs following the initiation of resuscitation (3 animals per time point). Sham cannulated animals served as controls. Liver protein extracts were analyzed by Western blotting for JNK phosphorylation, as well as for the ability to phosphorylate its substrate, c-jun. Bands were quantified by densitometry, and statistically analyzed by ANOVA.
Retinoic acid stimulates annexin-mediated growth plate chondrocyte mineralization.

Biomineralization is a highly regulated process that plays a major role during the development of skeletal tissues. Despite its obvious importance, little is known about its regulation. Previously, it has been demonstrated that retinoic acid (RA) stimulates terminal differentiation and mineralization of growth plate chondrocytes (Iwamoto, M., I.M. Shapiro, K. Yagumi, A.L. Boskey, P.S. Leboy, S.L. Adams, and M. Pacifici. 1993. Exp. Cell Res. 207:413–420). In this study, we provide evidence that RA treatment of growth plate chondrocytes caused a series of events eventually leading to mineralization of these cultures: increase in cytosolic calcium concentration, followed by up-regulation of annexin II, V, and VI gene expression, and release of annexin II–, V–, VI– and alkaline phosphatase–containing matrix vesicles. Cotreatment of growth plate chondrocytes with RA and BAPTA-AM, a cell permeable Ca2+ chelator, inhibited the up-regulation of annexin gene expression and mineralization of these cultures. Interestingly, only matrix vesicles isolated from RA-treated cells that contained annexins, were able to take up Ca2+ and mineralize, whereas vesicles isolated from untreated or RA/BAPTA-treated cells, that contained no or only little annexins were not able to take up Ca2+ and mineralize. Cotreatment of chondrocytes with RA and EDTA revealed that increases in the cytosolic calcium concentration were due to influx of extracellular calcium. Interestingly, the novel 1,4-benzothiazepine derivative K-201, a specific annexin Ca2+ channel blocker, or antibodies specific for annexin II, V, or VI inhibited the increases in cytosolic calcium concentration in RA-treated chondrocytes. These findings indicate that annexins II, V, and VI form Ca2+ channels in the plasma membrane of terminally differentiated growth plate chondrocytes and mediate Ca2+ influx into these cells. The resulting increased cytosolic calcium concentration leads to a further up-regulation of annexin II, V, and VI gene expression, the release of annexin II–, V–, VI– and alkaline phosphatase–containing matrix vesicles, and the initiation of mineralization by these vesicles.
Multifactorial model of habitat, host fish, and landscape effects on Louisiana freshwater mussels

Abstract. Unionoids are important in aquatic ecosystems, but despite their continued decline in diversity, few multifactorial studies have been done to identify determinants of their distribution and diversity. We studied the effects of multiple environmental factors on species richness and abundance at 65 sites in 6 major watersheds in the Pine Hills region, Louisiana. We surveyed in-stream habitat variables, land use/cover, and the co-occurring fish assemblages in 2nd- through 6th-order streams. A structural equation model suggested that 2 major latent variables were important: 1) reduced habitat disturbance, influenced by lower current velocity, substratum composed mostly of fine sediments, and increasing stream order, and 2) agricultural land use in riparian corridors and associated reduced water quality. These 2 latent variables explained 84% of mussel species richness and 48% of total mussel abundance. Mussel, but not host-fish species richness and abundance increased with stream order. Sites in the...
Genetic Population Structure of the Black Caribs and Creoles

In recent years, reduced-space least squares representations of the distri­bution of gene frequencies have come to be a standard method available to human population geneticists (Cannings and Cavalli-Sforza, 1973; Jorde, 1980). Such representations, derived from the spectral decomposition of matrices of normalized gene frequency covariances, are referred to as genetic structures (Harpending and Jenkins, 1974; Workman, et al., 1973). However, these so-called “genetic maps” are of limited evolutionary significance unless accompanied by information independent of the allelic frequencies, such as patterns of demo­graphic, environmental, or historical factors (Workman etal., 1976; Harpending and Ward, 1982). For the most part, since the processes creating the observed gene frequency patterns have usually been in place for at most only a few generations, the requisite independent data consist of written or verbal histories.
CAD challenges for microsensors, microactuators, and microsystems

In parallel with the development of new technologies, new device configurations, and new applications for microsensors, microactuators, and microsystems, also referred to as microelectromechanical devices and systems (MEMS), there has arisen a growing need for computer-aided engineering and design systems. There is a wide range of design problems: process simulation, solid-body geometric renderings from photomasks and process descriptions, energetically correct simulations of behavior across multiple coupled energy domains, extraction of lumped low-order models of device behavior, optimization of geometry and process sequence, and design of full systems that include MEMS devices. Because of the computational demands of the modeling required to support full computer-aided design (CAD), there is a premium on fast and memory-efficient algorithms that help the designer, both by automating, where possible, complex sets of related tasks and by providing rapid computational prototyping at critical points in the design cycle. This paper presents an overview of the present state of the art in CAD for MEMS, with particular emphasis on the role of macromodels and test structures as part of the design environment.
Use of regularly scheduled albuterol treatment in asthma: genotype-stratified, randomised, placebo-controlled cross-over trial

Summary Background The issue of whether regular use of an inhaled β 2 -adrenergic agonist worsens airflow and clinical outcomes in asthma is controversial. Retrospective studies have suggested that adverse effects occur in patients with a genetic polymorphism that results in homozygosity for arginine (Arg/Arg), rather than glycine (Gly/Gly), at aminoacid residue 16 of the β 2 -adrenergic receptor. However, the existence of any genotype-dependent difference has not been tested in a prospective clinical trial. Methods Patients with mild asthma, not using a controller medication, were enrolled in pairs matched for forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV 1 ) according to whether they had the Arg/Arg (n=37; four of 41 matches withdrew before randomisation) or Gly/Gly (n=41) genotype. Regularly scheduled treatment with albuterol or placebo was given in a masked, cross-over design, for 16-week periods. During the study, as-needed albuterol use was discontinued and ipratropium bromide was used as needed. Morning peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) was the primary outcome variable. The primary comparisons were between treatment period for each genotype; the secondary outcome was a treatment by genotype effect. Analyses were by intention to treat. Findings During the run-in period, when albuterol use was kept to a minimum, patients with the Arg/Arg genotype had an increase in morning PEFR of 23 L/min (p=0·0162); the change in patients with the Gly/Gly genotype was not significant (2 L/min; p=0·8399). During randomised treatment, patients with the Gly/Gly genotype had an increase in morning PEFR during treatment with regularly scheduled albuterol compared with placebo (14 L/min [95% CI 3 to 25]; p=0·0175). By contrast, patients with the Arg/Arg genotype had lower morning PEFR during treatment with albuterol than during the placebo period, when albuterol use was limited (–10 L/min [–19 to –2]; p=0·0209). The genotype-attributable treatment difference was therefore –24 L/min (–37 to –12; p=0·0003). There were similar genotype-specific effects in FEV 1 , symptoms, and use of supplementary reliever medication. Interpretation Genotype at the 16th aminoacid residue of the β 2 -adrenergic receptor affects the long-term response to albuterol use. Bronchodilator treatments avoiding albuterol may be appropriate for patients with the Arg/Arg genotype.
A Fresh Liver Agar Substrate for Rearing Small Numbers of Forensically Important Blow Flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

Forensically important calliphorids can be reared on a mixture of beef liver and agar. Small pieces of meat, especially fresh or frozen beef liver, will desiccate in 2–6 h, but this simple-to-make feeding substrate remains moist for at least 12 h at 25 and 30°C without desiccation, even in small (5 g) amounts. We determined the survivorship of small numbers of Chrysomya megacephala (F.) (first-instar larvae to adult eclosion) raised on 5 g of liver agar and fresh beef liver. We found that all larvae raised on 5 g of liver died due to desiccation, but survivorship on 5 g of liver agar was equivalent to that on larger (50 g) pieces of either liver agar or beef liver.
Dye adsorption and decomposition on two-dimensional titanium carbide in aqueous media

Recently a large family of two-dimensional (2D) layered early transition metal carbides and carbonitrides – labelled MXene – possessing metallic conductivity and hydrophilic surfaces was discovered. Herein we report on the adsorption and photocatalytic decomposition of organic molecules in aqueous environments containing Ti3C2Tx, a representative of the MXene family. This material possesses excellent adsorption toward cationic dyes, best described by a Freundlich isotherm. We also found that the material may undergo structural changes in aqueous media.
Abnormal Endothelium-Dependent Responses in Early Radiation Nephropathy

While arterial hypertension and renal dysfunction are well recognized complications of renal irradiation, the mechanisms that trigger the development of these complications are unknown. Recently, it was reported that the endothelium is a major target in radiation injury. Because dysfunction of the endothelial cells may lead or contribute to the development of hypertension and renal dysfunction in radiation nephropathy, we tested the hypothesis that endothelium-dependent vasodilation is impaired in radiated kidneys prior to the onset of hypertension. To test this hypothesis, we used Long-Evans rats that had undergone left nephrectomy (3 weeks earlier) and irradiation (3000 r's) to the right kidney 8 days earlier (mean blood pressures in the irradiated rats were not different than in the controls). We then measured the changes in renal blood flow (RBF) induced by endothelium-dependent (acetylcholine and bradykinin) and -independent (nitroprusside, norepinephrine, and angiotensin II) vasoactive agents. We found that the increases in RBF induced by the endothelium-dependent but not independent vasodilators were markedly impaired in the irradiated kidneys. Blocking nitric oxide synthesis with nitro L-arginine methyl ester in sham rats mimicked the blunted responsiveness of the irradiated rats, whereas indomethacin (an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis) had no effect on either sham or irradiated rats. Finally, the RBF responses to the endothelium-independent vasoconstrictors, norepinephrine and angiotensin II, were not altered in the irradiated kidneys. These results suggest that renal irradiation causes endothelial dysfunction (prior to the onset of hypertension) but spares the vascular smooth muscle cells.
A brief history of solid‐waste management

This paper reviews documents giving no more than a series of glimpses of solid‐waste problems and treatment over the last three‐thousand years in, principally, the Western hemisphere. The problems faced by city dwellers in dealing with their solid wastes are shown to have changed remarkably little during this period. Major changes have occurred in the character of wastes only in the last few decades, but these changes have not brought about changes of a similar scope in management methods.
Optimal Synchronization Policies for Data Warehouses

The notion of a data warehouse for integrating operational data into a single repository is rapidly becoming popular in modern organizations. An important issue in this context is how often one should synchronize the data warehouse to reflect the changes in the constituent operational data sources. If the synchronization is performed very frequently, the associated cost might be quite high, although the data warehouse would only have a small amount of stale data. On the other hand, if the data warehouse is synchronized infrequently, it might result in costly errors in business decisions arising from the stale data. This paper examines the trade-off between the synchronization and staleness costs and derives the optimal synchronization frequency.
Evaluation of a Pellet Formulated to Replace Whole Cottonseed in the Diet of Dairy Cows in Early Lactation

Abstract Three experiments were conducted to evaluate replacements for whole cottonseed in dairy diets. In Experiment 1, 16 primiparous and 16 multiparous cows were fed diets containing either 9.6% whole cottonseed or 12.6% whole cottonseed-replacer pellet during wk 4 through 11 postpartum. Dry matter intake was higher for primiparous cows fed the replacer pellet than for those fed whole cottonseed. Dry matter intakes for multiparous cows and yields of milk and milk components for both age groups were similar across treatments. In Experiment 2, the replacer pellet was compared with a corn and soybean meal supplement, using 14 multiparous and 16 primiparous cows during wk 1 through 16 postpartum. Persistency of milk yield was improved in animals receiving the replacer pellet. In Experiment 3, the replacer pellet, whole cottonseed, and a corn and soybean meal diet were compared during wk 1 through 24 in 21 primiparous and 21 multiparous cows. As in Experiment 2, persistency of lactation was increased in cows fed the replacer pellet. Dry matter intake was increased in multiparous cows fed the pellet compared with cows fed whole cottonseed or corn and soybean meal. Milk fat content was higher for multiparous cows fed whole cottonseed than for cows fed pellet. The pellet was a useful source of energy and protein and can be used to replace whole cottonseed in early lactation diets provided substitution is on a caloric basis.
Highly field-sensitive transverse-biased non-hysteretic spin valves

Transverse biasing effect on spin valves was studied by use of a uniform rotation model. The effect was proved to be substantial in improving non-hysteretic spin valves in the field sensitivity, although the dynamic range was sacrificed to some extent. An experimental test showed that compared with the conventional spin valve in which the pinning field direction is set perpendicular to the easy axis of the free layer, 2.5 times sensitivity was obtained with a dynamic range of 0.6 times compared to that of the ideal conventional case. Calculation showed that a self-biasing effect by tilting the pinning field direction of the pinned layer from the easy axis of the soft magnetic layer was also effective in enhancing the field sensitivity.
Transmission line behavior of the hardness surveillance illuminator

A certain rhombic illuminator used to test the hardness of aircraft systems is studied with regard to its low-frequency behavior. The upper frequency limit on the validity of the two-wire transmission line model for the rhombic illuminator is determined by using a simple numerical model. The magnitudes of the transverse field components determined by using the numerical model are found to differ significantly from those of the two-wire line model at frequencies as low as 2 MHz. >
Incubation Periods of Experimental Rhinovirus Infection and Illness

Eleven young adults with experimental rhinovirus infection (cases) and six noninfected saline-challenged young adults (controls) underwent nasal washings and symptom evaluations at 2-hour intervals for 24 hours after intranasal challenge. The mean and median periods to the first recovery of virus were 11.3 hours and 10 hours, respectively. Geometric mean rhinovirus titers in cases reached 10(0.2) log10 TCID50 (50% tissue culture infective dose)/0.1 mL at 10 hours and rose to 10(1.0) log10 TCID50/0.1 mL at 18 hours. Nine (82%) of 11 cases and one (16.7%) of six controls had colds. Mean total symptom scores for cases became significantly higher than those for controls at 16 hours. Sore or scratchy throat appeared between 10 and 12 hours in cases, but nasal obstruction and rhinorrhea first appeared at 2 hours, thus suggesting some nasal irritation from the viral inoculum pool. The incubation period of experimental rhinovirus infection is similar to that in cell culture. Nasal and pharyngeal symptoms began early in infection.