cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the Bullwhip Effect in Linear, Time-Invariant Supply Chains: Some Formulae and Tests

The authors analyze the bullwhip effect in multistage, decentralized supply chains operated with linear and time-invariant inventory management policies; the focus is on robustness. The supply chain is modeled as a single-input, single-output control system driven by arbitrary customer demands. The authors derive robust analytical conditions to predict the presence of the bullwhip effect and bound its magnitude, based only on the way inventories are managed. These results hold independently of the customer demand. The authors also characterize the stream of orders placed at any stage of the chain when the customer demand process is known and ergodic and give an exact formula for the variance of the orders placed. This formula generalizes existing results by broadening the class of inventory replenishment policies and customer demand processes to which it applies. The authors also show that the bullwhip effect can be mitigated by introducing commitments for future orders into the ordering policies.
Far-infrared spectrum of poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide)

Abstract The polarized and unpolarized far-infrared (460-30 cm−1) spectra of poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide) (PPTA) fabric and fiber arrays are reported. These spectra are discussed and tentatively analyzed on the basis of the internal and external modes of the repeat unit of PPTA. To assist in band assignments, the spectra of potassium triiodide-treated PPTA fibers and of benzanilide and its benzene solution are also reported.
Surgical Intervention for Thoracic Infections

Multidisciplinary management of thoracic infection, including experts in thoracic surgery, pulmonology, infectious disease, and radiology, is ideal for optimal outcomes. Initial assessment of parapneumonic effusion and empyema requires computed tomographic evaluation and consideration for fluid sampling or drainage. Goals for the treatment of parapneumonic effusion and empyema include drainage of the pleural space and complete lung reexpansion. Pulmonary abscess is often successfully treated with antibiotics and observation. Surgical intervention for the treatment of fungal or tuberculous lung disease should be undertaken by experienced surgeons following multidisciplinary assessment. Sternoclavicular joint infection often requires joint resection.
The relationship between research & development expenditure and executive compensation in high‐technology industries

Outlines previous research on the links between RD and presents a study of the relationship between RD but mixed results for the relationship with cash flow. Discusses consistency with other research and the implications of the findings.
Anisotropy in the Electron-Phonon Umklapp Interaction and Deviations from Matthiessen's Rule

Detailed calculations and experimental evidence show that significant deviations from Matthiessen's rule arise naturally as a result of anistropy in the low-temperature electron-scattering probability. Such anisotropy can be considerable in the pure metal as a result of the strong orientational dependence of the electron-phonon umklapp interaction at low temperatures. It is shown that elastic electron-impurity scattering can produce a significant impurity-dependent change in the intrinsic resistivity simply through the reduction of these angular distortions. As a consequence calculations made in the usual relaxation-time approximation are more appropriately compared with resistivity data dominated by such isotropic-impurity scattering than with "ideal" resistivity data obtained in the pure limit (where umklapp-generated anisotropy is usually substantial). Using the variational method, various model pseudopotentials, and a realistic phonon spectrum, the mechanism's effect has been accurately evaluated for the case of potassium in the temperature range below $\frac{{\ensuremath{\Theta}}_{D}}{5}$. A thorough analysis of the role played by the various scattering mechanisms indicates that the effect is strongly dependent on the relative amounts of umklapp versus normal scattering present. The variational results are found to account for a substantial portion of the observed impurity dependence of the intrinsic resistivity of potassium. The predicted deviations in polyvalent metals are expected to be significantly larger and agree, in general form, with observations of such effects in aluminum.
Optimization of electric vehicle movement for efficient energy consumption

This paper focuses on the development of computational optimization algorithm to provide energy-based driving guidance for electric vehicle (EV) drivers to use the limited resource efficiently. The proposed efficiency improving strategy that minimizes total energy consumption according to various driving scenarios is demonstrated and analyzed. Several factors such as regenerative energy coefficient, stop-and-go frequency, inclination of ground, wind speed, etc. have been taken into consideration in the case studies.
Tetralin oxidation in the presence of polymers: Evidence of initiation by surface free radicals

Abstract Oxidation of Tetralin at 50 to 88 °C in the presence of particles of polyethylene (or polypropylene) was characterized by rates of oxygen uptake in a standard autoxidation apparatus. The induction time for reaction was reduced either by grinding or by γ-irradiation of the polymer particles. The results suggest a sequence of autoxidation reaction steps initiated by polymer surface free radicals, which can be formed by irradiation or by scission of CC bonds in the tie chains connecting the chain-folded lamellae of linear polyethylene.
Simulation of binary trees and X-trees on pyramid networks

Abstract Traditionally, pyramid machines have been used for image processing problems. In this paper, we examine techniques for extending the use of pyramid networks. In particular, we show (1) every complete binary tree is a subgraph of its optimum pyramid, (2) the X-tree is not a subgraph of its optimum pyramid, but (3) every X-tree can be embedded into its optimum pyramid with dilation 2 and edge congestion 2, and (4) every binary tree can be embedded into a pyramid with constant dilation and constant expansion.
Local existence of the nerve impulse

Abstract The existence of an impulse solution to a general nerve axon equation is demonstrated in the neighborhood of an assumed sufficiently good approximate solution. This is done in a functional analytic setting by an iteration based on Newton's method which it is shown would converge to the solution (and its velocity). The Kantorovich theorem additionally provides bounds on the neighborhood.
Applications of deep UV LEDs to chemical and biological sensing

An AlGaN Light-emitting diode (LED) emitting with a peak wavelength at 291 nm and a radiant power of 0.5 mW @ 100 mA was fabricated on a sapphire substrate. A compact gated fluorescence detection system was built using this LED as the excitation light source. We demonstrate that it provides sufficient power using Terbium enhanced fluorescence to detect subnanomolar concentrations of dipicolinic acid (DPA, 2, 6-pyridinedicarboxylic acid), a substance uniquely present in bacterial spores such as that from B. anthracis, providing a basis for convenient early warning detectors. We also describe initial results from a novel approach for biological aerosol detection using long lived fluorescence from a Europium tagged dye that binds to proteins.
Samuel Moyn and the new history of human rights

Human rights is suddenly a booming field for historians. Political theorists, international relations specialists and legal scholars for years have explored the intellectual and political concept of human rights with acuity. But not historians. Legions of histories cover rights struggles in particular settings. Intellectual histories abound that locate the origins of rights in Ancient Greece, Renaissance Florence or 17th-century Britain or, perhaps more fantastically, in Mesopotamia and the Hammurabi Code. But a history of human rights in a broad sense, one that places the near-present in historical context, that explores the political and social as well as the intellectual history of rights, all with a global dimension and in critical fashion – that has been sorely lacking, although we are on the cusp of a small wave of interesting works. Certainly, the phrase human rights now pops up in countless dissertations and as the title of articles in numerous issues of historical journals. In North America, every undergraduate and graduate curriculum, it seems, has introduced, just in the last few years, a rich pallet of courses on human rights. Into this slowly boiling cauldron comes Samuel Moyn with the first critical history of human rights. The book is a significant achievement. The very small collection of histories that we have – literally a handful, though that is fast changing – has been linear and triumphalist and, very often, focused nearly exclusively on the United States, as Moyn rightly argues. Instructive they have been, and many historians and human rights scholars in general have benefited greatly from the works of Paul Gorden Lauren, Micheline Ishay, Mary Ann Glendon, Elizabeth Borgwardt, Lynn Hunt and Jean Quataert, to name some of the most prominent examples. But their histories have been written as if a straight line runs from the American Declaration of Independence and the French Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948. Or the founding moment is seen to be 1941 and the Atlantic Charter or 1945 and the establishment of the United Nations, both expressions of the high tide of
Simple relation between the bare and physical mass of fermions

Abstract Results obtained in various field-theoretic models of electrodynamics and pseudoscalar meson-nucleon theory with massless pions strongly suggest that the bare mass M0 of the fermion involved is simply related to its physical mass M by M0 = Z2 M. As a possible consequence of this relation it is suggested that the baryons as well as the electron and muon can be thought of as composite objects.
A bayesian approach to the estimation of the largest normal mean

A hierarchical Bayesian approach to the problem of estimating the largest normal mean is considered. Calculation of the posterior mean and the posterior variance involves, at worst, 3-dimensional numerical integration, for which an efficient Monte Carlo method of evaluation is given. An example is presented to illustrate the methodology. In the two populations case, computation of the posterior estimates can be substantially simplified and in special cases can actually be performed using closed form solutions. A simulation study has been done to compare mean square errors of some hierarchical Bayesian estimators that are expressed in closed forms and several existing estimators of the larger mean.
Assessment of dietitians’ nutrition counselling self-efficacy and its positive relationship with reported skill usage

Background: Previous studies on nutrition counselling self-efficacy have assessed small groups of dietitians in focused practice areas or evaluated the effectiveness of skills training on only a few skills. This descriptive study developed a comprehensive scale to examine self-efficacy in a large, cross-sectional sample of practising dietitians when performing various counselling skills that promote dietary behaviour changes. Methods: A valid and reliable instrument was developed and administered through the Internet to survey dietitians in the USA from various areas of dietetics and with varying years of experience. Items included counselling self-efficacy, skill usage and counselling-related job characteristics. Of the 612 respondents, one group (n = 486) conducted counselling for more than 50% of their work week, and the other group (n = 126) for less than 50%. Factor analysis was used for scale development. Independent samples t-tests and chi-square tests were performed for group comparisons. Correlations and multiple regression analyses further assessed the relationships among variables. Results: The resultant unidimensional scale contained 25 items. Dietitians reported high self-efficacy scores and frequent skill usage. Those who counsel for more than 50% of their work week were more likely to work in outpatient settings and private practice, reported higher self-efficacy scores, and held longer and repeated sessions. Self-efficacy scores were positively correlated with counselling-related job characteristics. Years of counselling experience and skill usage significantly predicted self-efficacy scores. Conclusions: Dietitians perceive themselves to be highly self-efficacious in using counselling skills which may contribute positively to their professional practice. However, the relationship between counselling self-efficacy and actual performance warrants further investigation.
Systematic mutation and thermodynamic analysis of central tyrosine pairs in polyspecific NKG2D receptor interactions.

The homodimeric, activating natural killer cell receptor NKG2D interacts with multiple monomeric ligands polyspecifically, yet without central conformational flexibility. Crystal structures of multiple NKG2D–ligand interactions have identified the NKG2D tyrosine pair Tyr 152 and Tyr 199 as forming multiple specific but diverse interactions with MICA and related proteins. Here we systematically altered each tyrosine to tryptophan, phenylalanine, isoleucine, leucine, valine, serine, and alanine to measure the effect of mutation on affinity and thermodynamics for binding a range of similar ligands: MICA, the higher-affinity ligand MICB, and MICdesign, a high-affinity version of MICA that shares all NKG2D contact residues with MICA. Affinity and residue size were related: tryptophan could often substitute for tyrosine without loss of affinity; loss of the tyrosine hydroxyl through mutation to phenylalanine was tolerated more at position 152 than 199; and the smallest residues coincide with lowest affinities in general. NKG2D mutant van’t Hoff binding thermodynamics generally show that substitution of other residues for tyrosine causes a moderate positive or flat van’t Hoff slope consistent with moderate loss of binding enthalpy. One set of NKG2D mutations caused MICA to adopt a positive van’t Hoff slope corresponding to absorption of heat, and another set caused MICB to adopt a negative slope of greater heat release than wild-type. MICdesign shared one example of the first set with MICA and one of the second set with MICB. When the NKG2D mutation affinities were arranged according to change in nonpolar surface area and compared to results from specific antibody–antigen and protein–peptide interactions, it was found that hydrophobic surface loss in NKG2D reduced binding affinity less than reported in the other contexts. The hydrophobic effect at the center of the NKG2D binding appears more similar to that at the periphery of an antibody–antigen binding site than at its center. Therefore the polyspecific NKG2D binding site is more tolerant of structural alteration in general than either an antibody–antigen or protein–peptide binding site, and this tolerance may adapt NKG2D to a broad range of protein surfaces with micromolar affinity.
Assessing the Impact of Market Disturbances Using Intervention Analysis

A recurring problem confronting marketing operatives at all levels is assessing the impact of market disturbances. The disturbances may be caused by marketing mix manipulations of the firm itself, by its competitors or by fundamental external changes in the environment in which the firm operates. This article discusses a technique, intervention analysis, by which the impact of such disturbances can be assessed. The technique is used to examine the effects of Proctor and Gamble's promotion of the American Dental Association endorsement of Crest on the market shares of Crest and Colgate dentifrice during the years 1958--1963.
Postherpetic neuralgia after shingles: an under-recognized cause of chronic vulvar pain

Abstract BACKGROUND: Vulvar shingles, an uncommon presentation of a common disease, probably affects 1.5 million American women during their lifetime and leaves about 150,000 with postherpetic neuralgia, a chronic neuropathic pain syndrome. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can minimize pain severity and duration. CASES: The case of an 88-year-old woman with sacral shingles is described. Complications led to her demise. A 35-year-old with a 6-year history of disabling vulvar pain and many diagnostic procedures was ultimately diagnosed with postherpetic neuralgia. CONCLUSION: Shingles needs to be included in the differential diagnosis of vulvar rashes because it is a modifiable risk factor for chronic vulvar pain. The possibility of postherpetic neuralgia must be considered in women with unexplained vulvar dysesthesia.
Therapeutic potential of haptic TheraDrive: An affordable robot/computer system for motivating stroke rehabilitation

There is a need for increased opportunities for effective neurorehabilitation services for stroke survivors outside the hospital environment. Efforts to develop low-cost robot/computer therapy solutions able to be deployed in home and community rehabilitation settings have been growing. Our long-term goal is to develop a very low-cost system for stroke rehabilitation that can use commercial gaming technology and support rehabilitation with stroke survivors at all functioning levels. This paper reports the results of experiments comparing the old and new TheraDrive systems in terms of ability to assist/resist subjects and the root-mean-square (RMS) trajectory tracking error. Data demonstrate that the new system, in comparison to the original TheraDrive, produces a larger change in normalized trajectory tracking error when assistance/resistance is added to exercises and has the potential to support stroke survivors at all functioning levels.
Motivational interviewing for smoking cessation in college students: A group randomized controlled trial

Objective To examine the efficacy of four individually-delivered Motivational Interviewing counseling sessions for smoking cessation versus a matched intensity comparison condition.
How the Noninflammasome NLRs Function in the Innate Immune System

NLR (nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich repeat-containing) proteins have rapidly emerged as central regulators of immunity and inflammation with demonstrated relevance to human diseases. Much attention has focused on the ability of several NLRs to activate the inflammasome complex and drive proteolytic processing of inflammatory cytokines; however, NLRs also regulate important inflammasome-independent functions in the immune system. We discuss several of these functions, including the regulation of canonical and noncanonical NF-kappaB activation, mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, cytokine and chemokine production, antimicrobial reactive oxygen species production, type I interferon production, and ribonuclease L activity. We also explore the mechanistic basis of these functions and describe current challenges in the field.
Extended expression for tissue-maximum ratio fitted to the Varian Clinac-4 and Clinac-6 accelerators

An expression which generates tissue maximum ratio (TMR) data for the Varian Clinac-4 and Clinac-6 accelerators is presented. This semiempirical expression can be programmed easily for radiotherapy computer systems or the new generation of scientific calculators. Our technique leads to good agreement with the published data, as demonstrated by a total average percent deviation of the measured TMR values of -0.115% for the Clinac-4 and -0.002% for the Clinac-6.
Public Attitudes Toward Freedom of the Press

This article presents findings on a study of public attitudes toward the rights and responsibilities of the media. Public thinking about freedom of the press appears to be dominated by a principle of fairness. Specifically, people want and expect the communications media to provide equal coverage to opposing political candidates and to present both sides of controversial issues. Despite other studies showing a lack of political tolerance, the public is willing to permit considerable diversity in the points of view that are presented in the media. Although the public rejects many proposals for censorship laws, it does support "fairness-enhancing" laws. The authors hypothesize that the public's perspective on freedom of the press grows out of its role as listeners rather than as speakers. John Immerwahr is an Associate Professor of philosophy at Villanova University, and a research fellow of the Public Agenda foundation. John Doble is a Senior Research Associate at the Public Agenda Foundation. This article was adapted from The Speaker and the Listener: A Public Perspective on Freedom of Expression (New York: Public Agenda Foundation, 1980), by John Immerwahr, Jean Johnson, and John Doble, The research was supported by a grant from the John and Mary R. Markle Foundation. Daniel Yankelovich, President of the Public Agenda, supervised the original project, and the authors are indebted to him for his help and suggestions. Jean Johnson read and commented on earlier drafts of this article. For more detailed information about the findings, contact the Roper Data Center, Storrs, Connecticut 06268. Public Opinion Quarterly Vol. 46:177-194 ? 1982 by The Trustees of Columbia University Published by Elsevier Science Publishing Co., Inc. 0033-362X/82/0046-177/$2.50 This content downloaded from 207.46.13.100 on Thu, 02 Mar 2017 04:15:24 UTC All use subject to http://about.jstor.org/terms 178 IMMERWAHR AND DOBLE
Psychometric Properties of a Suicide Screen for Adjudicated Youth in Residential Care

There is a need to efficiently and effectively screen adjudicated youth residing within the juvenile justice system for suicide proneness. Accordingly, in the current study, the psychometric properties of the Life Attitude Schedule: Short Form (LAS:S), a 24-item risk assessment for suicide proneness, were assessed using data from adjudicated youth residing in an alternative sentencing facility (n = 130). As predicted, statistically significant correlations were obtained between total LAS:S suicide proneness scores and reports of recent suicide ideation and hopelessness. Contrary to expectation, the previously reported 2-factor model for the LAS:S, with Factor 1 representing physical unhealthiness and Factor 2 representing psychological death, poorly fit the data. In adjudicated youth, we found that a single factor model derived from the 4 LAS:S subscales produced a better fit to the data than the 2-factor model. The death-related, self-related, injury-related, and negative health-related behaviors contained on the LAS:S shared common variance in these youth. A clinical implication is that practitioners can effectively use the total LAS:S score when screening adjudicated youth for suicide proneness.
Insulin resistance – a common link between type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease

Evidence suggests that diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) may share an underlying cause(s), a theory known as the ‘common soil’ hypothesis. Insulin resistance is central both to the progression from normal glucose tolerance to type 2 diabetes and to a constellation of cardiovascular risk factors known as the metabolic syndrome. These risk factors include visceral obesity and dyslipidaemia characterized by low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, hypertriglyceridaemia and raised small dense low-density lipoprotein particle levels. Changes in adipose tissue mass and metabolism may link insulin resistance and visceral obesity, a condition that is common in type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, weight reduction, increased physical activity, metformin and acarbose have been shown to reduce the development of type 2 diabetes in genetically predisposed subjects and may decrease the high cardiovascular risk of patients with diabetes. Some fatty acid derivatives can affect energy metabolism by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), nuclear receptors that play a key role in energy homeostasis. These receptors represent an ideal therapeutic target for reducing cardiovascular risk, because they are involved in the regulation of both insulin action and lipid metabolism. In addition to lifestyle changes, PPARγ agonists such as thiazolidinediones are frequently beneficial and have been shown to ameliorate insulin resistance, while activation of PPARα (e.g. by fibrates) can lead to improvements in free fatty acid oxidation and lipid profile, and a reduction in cardiovascular events. The development of agents with both PPARα and PPARγ activity promises added benefits with amelioration of insulin resistance, delayed progression to and of type 2 diabetes and a reduction of CVD.
Carboplatin and Paclitaxel With vs Without Bevacizumab in Older Patients With Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Context A previous randomized trial demonstrated that adding bevacizumab to carboplatin and paclitaxel improved survival in advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, longer survival was not observed in the subgroup of patients aged 65 years or older. Objective To examine whether adding bevacizumab to carboplatin and paclitaxel chemotherapy is associated with improved survival in older patients with NSCLC. Design, Setting, and Participants Retrospective cohort study of 4168 Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years or older with stage IIIB or stage IV non−squamous cell NSCLC diagnosed in 2002-2007 in a Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) region. Patients were categorized into 3 cohorts based on diagnosis year and type of initial chemotherapy administered within 4 months of diagnosis: (1) diagnosis in 2006-2007 and bevacizumab-carboplatin-paclitaxel therapy; (2) diagnosis in 2006-2007 and carboplatin-paclitaxel therapy; or (3) diagnosis in 2002-2005 and carboplatin-paclitaxel therapy. The associations between carboplatin-paclitaxel with vs without bevacizumab and overall survival were compared using Cox proportional hazards models and propensity score analyses including information about patient characteristics recorded in SEER-Medicare. Main Outcome Measure Overall survival measured from the first date of chemotherapy treatment until death or the censoring date of December 31, 2009. Results The median survival estimates were 9.7 (interquartile range [IQR], 4.4-18.6) months for bevacizumab-carboplatin-paclitaxel, 8.9 (IQR, 3.5-19.3) months for carboplatin-paclitaxel in 2006-2007, and 8.0 (IQR, 3.7-17.2) months for carboplatin-paclitaxel in 2002-2005. One-year survival probabilities were 39.6% (95% CI, 34.6%-45.4%) for bevacizumab-carboplatin-paclitaxel vs 40.1% (95% CI, 37.4%-43.0%) for carboplatin-paclitaxel in 2006-2007 and 35.6% (95% CI, 33.8%-37.5%) for carboplatin-paclitaxel in 2002-2005. Neither multivariable nor propensity score–adjusted Cox models demonstrated a survival advantage for bevacizumab-carboplatin-paclitaxel compared with carboplatin-paclitaxel cohorts. In propensity score–stratified models, the hazard ratio for overall survival for bevacizumab-carboplatin-paclitaxel compared with carboplatin-paclitaxel in 2006-2007 was 1.01 (95% CI, 0.89-1.16; P = .85) and compared with carboplatin-paclitaxel in 2002-2005 was 0.93 (95% CI, 0.83-1.06; P = .28). The propensity score–weighted model and propensity score–matching model similarly failed to demonstrate a statistically significant superiority for bevacizumab-carboplatin-paclitaxel. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses for key variables did not change these findings. Conclusion Adding bevacizumab to carboplatin and paclitaxel chemotherapy was not associated with better survival among Medicare patients with advanced NSCLC.
E-mail Communication: Issues for Mental Health Counselors

In an era where fast, efficient communication is needed, e-mail has emerged. From its beginning in 1971, professionals have used e-mail to communicate—lawyers, counselors, psychologists, and social workers with clients; nurses and physicians with patients. But despite its advantages, e-mail can cause problems. This article discusses both the positive use of electronic communication and the need to address fundamental counseling issues that arise in using it. The article reflects the AMHCA and ACA ethical codes for the use of technology in the counseling relationship. It also looks at e-mail communication between counselor and client with special attention to challenges of which counselors should be aware.
Uncovering New Metabolic Capabilities of Bacillus subtilis Using Phenotype Profiling of Rifampin-Resistant rpoB Mutants

RNA polymerase is a central macromolecular machine controlling the flow of information from genotype to phenotype, and insights into global transcriptional regulation can be gained by studying mutational perturbations in the enzyme. Mutations in the RNA polymerase beta subunit gene rpoB causing resistance to rifampin (Rif(r)) in Bacillus subtilis were previously shown to lead to alterations in the expression of a number of global phenotypes known to be under transcriptional control, such as growth, competence for transformation, sporulation, and germination (H. Maughan, B. Galeano, and W. L. Nicholson, J. Bacteriol. 186:2481-2486, 2004). To better understand the global effects of rpoB mutations on metabolism, wild-type and 11 distinct congenic Rif(r) mutant strains of B. subtilis were tested for utilization of 95 substrates by use of Biolog GP2 MicroPlates. A number of alterations of substrate utilization patterns were observed in the Rif(r) mutants, including the utilization of novel substrates previously unknown in B. subtilis, such as gentiobiose, beta-methyl-D-glucoside, and D-psicose. The results indicate that combining global metabolic profiling with mutations in RNA polymerase provides a system-wide approach for uncovering previously unknown metabolic capabilities and further understanding global transcriptional control circuitry in B. subtilis.
Transient simulation of lossy coupled transmission lines

The authors present a new approach for transient simulation of lossy coupled transmission lines terminated in arbitrary nonlinear elements. The approach is based on convolution simulation. By making use of the Pade approximation of the modal functions, the impulse responses of the multiconductor system are determined. A recursive convolution formulations is derived for the impulse responses. The stepwise equivalent conductance integration technique is employed: therefore, no Newton-Raphson iteration is needed for the implicit integration of the circuit. The approach can handle general coupling situations. >
A 73.1dB SNDR digitally assisted subsampler for RF power amplifier linearization systems

We present a digitally assisted subsampler, designed to serve as the downconversion path in adaptive predistorters for 800MHz–5.8GHz RF power amplifiers. We use digital averaging to overcome the noise folding problems of subsampling, obtaining a final SNDR of 73.1dB for signals centered about a 2.4GHz carrier. Using quadrature subsampling, we obtain both the I and Q samples from the same physical path and thereby eliminate IQ gain mismatch. When used as part of an adaptive predistortion system, the subsampler enables an EVM improvement of 3.2% and distortion products suppression of up to 7.6dB for 802.11g signals. The subsampler IC, designed in a 90nm CMOS process, consumes 6.0mW from a 1.2V supply.
Temperature as a first-class citizen in chip design

With new technology trends, arising through a confluence of factors such as Moore's law scaling and 3D integration, the role of thermal design is inexorably shifting from package-centric issues towards on-chip optimizations. This talk overviews the roots of this change, the circuit effects of elevated temperatures, and on-chip optimizations for effective thermal management.
Embedded-Ultrasonics Structural Radar for Nondestructive Evaluation of Thin-Wall Structures

Embedded-Ultrasonics Structural Radar (EUSR) is a new concept and methodology for in-situ nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of thin-wall structures. EUSR utilizes (a) a Piezo Wafer Active Sensors (PWAS) array embedded onto the structure; and (b) electronic modules for signal transmission/reception, processing, and interpretation. The EUSR methodology is developed as an extension of our previous work on the Lamb wave propagation NDE. Based on the study of the Lamb wave characteristic, the excitation signal is optimized to obtain good signal to noise ratio. Lamb wave speed-frequency curve is plotted to obtain the wave speed of the excitation signal. This wave speed is then used to map the EUSR data from time domain to distance domain, thus the locations of the reflectors can be visually displayed. The EUSR algorithm is adopted from the beamforming process currently used in phased-array radar applications. Each element in the PWAS array plays the role of both transmitter and receiver. A circuit is designed to change the role of the PWAS in a round robin fashion. The responses of the structure to all the excitation signals are collected. By applying the EUSR algorithm, an appropriate delay is applied to each signal in the data set to make them all focus on a direction denoted by angle φ. When this angle φ is changed from 0 to 180 degrees, a virtual scanning beam is formed and a large area of the structure can be interrogated. The EUSR algorithm is explained in this paper. Experimental results from a proof-of-concept EUSR system are also presented.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Processivity, Substrate Binding, and Mechanism of Cellulose Hydrolysis by Thermobifida fusca Cel9A

Thermobifida fusca Cel9A-90 is a processive endoglucanase consisting of a family 9 catalytic domain (CD), a family 3c cellulose binding module (CBM3c), a fibronectin III-like domain, and a family 2 CBM. This enzyme has the highest activity of any individual T. fusca enzyme on crystalline substrates, particularly bacterial cellulose (BC). Mutations were introduced into the CD or the CBM3c of Cel9A-68 using site-directed mutagenesis. The mutant enzymes were expressed in Escherichia coli; purified; and tested for activity on four substrates, ligand binding, and processivity. The results show that H125 and Y206 play an important role in activity by forming a hydrogen bonding network with the catalytic base, D58; another important supporting residue, D55; and Glc(−1) O1. R378, a residue interacting with Glc(+1), plays an important role in processivity. Several enzymes with mutations in the subsites Glc(−2) to Glc(−4) had less than 15% activity on BC and markedly reduced processivity. Mutant enzymes with severalfold-higher activity on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) were found in the subsites from Glc(−2) to Glc(−4). The CBM3c mutant enzymes, Y520A, R557A/E559A, and R563A, had decreased activity on BC but had wild-type or improved processivity. Mutation of D513, a conserved residue at the end of the CBM, increased activity on crystalline cellulose. Previous work showed that deletion of the CBM3c abolished crystalline activity and processivity. This study shows that it is residues in the catalytic cleft that control processivity while the CBM3c is important for loose binding of the enzyme to the crystalline cellulose substrate.
Comparison of sharp and blunt fin-induced shock wave/turbulent boundary-layer interaction

In this paper, results are presented from an experimental study of fin-induced shock wave/turbulent boundary-layer interaction. Semi-infinite fin models, with sharp and hemicylindrically blunted leading edges, were tested at Mach 3 in two high Reynolds number, adiabatic wall, turbulent boundary layers. Detailed streamwise surface pressure distributions were measured at several spanwise stations for angles of attack from 0 to 12 deg. The objective was to examine the spanwise development of the interaction region and determine its dependence on leading edge geometry and the incoming-flow parameters. The results show that for blunt fins there is a region of the interaction in the vicinity of the centerline where the scale and characteristics of the disturbed flowfield are controlled primarily by the leading edge diameter. Outboard of this inner, or "leading-edge dominated," region the interaction properties and spanwise development are essentially the same as if the leading edge were sharp. Thus there is an outer region of the blunt fin-induced flowfield in which the properties are effectively "independent of leading edge blunting." Nomenclature D = blunt fin leading-edge diameter h - fin height Lu = upstream influence measured relative to the freestream shock wave M = Mach number P = static pressure P2 = wall pressure downstream of interaction Re = Reynolds number X = coordinate in the plane of the test surface and aligned with the tunnel axis, with X= 0 at the fin leading edge Xs = coordinate in the X direction measured relative to the freestream shock wave Y = coordinate normal to the X axis in the plane of the test surface, with Y= 0 at the fin leading edge
THE GENUS ACTINOCYCLUS (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE): FRUSTULE MORPHOLOGY OF A. SAGITTULUS SP. NOV. AND TWO RELATED SPECIES1

Actinocyclus octonarius var. tenellus (Breb.) Hendey, A. actinochilus (Ehr.) Simonsen and A. sagittulus sp. nov. were examined by light and scanning electron microscopy from field samples and/or culture material. Consistent cingulum patterns of a wide valvocopula and one narrow pleura were found. In A. actinochilus, a small third band was found filling the opening of the pleura and is probably present in the other two taxa. The observed variability of the pseudonodulus, especially in A. actinochilus but also in other members of the genus, was confirmed and our results support the literature definition of Actinocyclus as having: 1) a marginal ring of large labiate processes, laterally expanded internally, 2) no external tubes, 3) essentially radial areolation arranged in fascicles, 4) external cribrum, internal foramen, and 5) a pseudonodulus usually present, but may be absent or difficult to detect on individual valves. On the basis of the present study another characteristic should be added; 6) hyaline bands with a wide valvocopula and at least one pleura. This characteristic appears to extend throughout the family Hemidiscaceae, suggesting a close relationship to those Coscinodiscus species with a single marginal row of large labiate processes and zero or one central labiate processes. In addition, Actinocyclus has been noted to have a thin valve overhang extending outside the valvocopula for as much as one-third of its width.
Another Look at Passage Correction Tests

0 A passage correction test (PC) is a measure used to determine the ability to identify and correct errors that have been systematically inserted into a prose passage. Earlier studies of such tests have made use of two basic formats: the insertion of irrelevant words as distractors (e.g., Bowen, 1978; Davies, 1975) and the substitution of grammatically unacceptable forms for acceptable ones (e.g., Arthur, 1980). Performance on PCs of the former type has been shown to correlate significantly with other measures of EFL ability (Mullen, 1979), and the format used in Arthur's study produced somewhat similar results. Other research (Abraham, 1983; Kaplan & Shand, 1984) suggests the value of editing tasks similar to PCs for the study of cognitive style and affective variables in second language learning. PCs that are constructed through the substitution of ungrammatical forms for grammatical ones have been investigated less; however, they may be more valuable for the study of how some aspects of language develop, for example, how much the ability to edit one's writing grows along with other abilities. While PCs constructed through the insertion of irrelevant words are a promising tool for some types of research, they do not so closely resemble the everyday task of editing one's writing, since they only require individuals to detect forms randomly dispersed among acceptable structures. The purpose of the study reported here was to examine in detail some characteristics of PCs as measures of editing skills. Specifically, its aims were (a) to show that success on a PC constructed by substituting unacceptable forms correlates significantly with a rather different type of language test, Harris and Palmer's (1970) Comprehensive English Language Test (CELT); (b) to show that sensitivity to different types of errors correlates significantly with the CELT; and (c) to show that correlations among different types of PC items can distinguish patterns of developing awareness of forms and meanings in EFL.
An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior to Exercise Among Older Adults1

One hundred five older adults enrolled in exercise classes were recruited from local YMCAs. Exercise behavior was measured 1, 3, and 9 months after beginning the exercise class. Intentions were not a significant predictor of exercise behavior, probably because of a lack of variance; most people intended to exercise. The direct measures of attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control, however, explained 9% of exercise behavior at 1 month. They did not significantly explain behavior at 3 and 9 months. When the indirect measure of subjective norms explained 18% of exercise behavior at 1 month. The indirect measure of perceived behavioral control accounted for 27% of the variance at 1 month and 10% at 3 months.
Electromagnetic radiation and antennas at Harvard, 1938- 1988 [From the Historian]

[Editor's Note: In this issue we are pleased to see a personal history by R. W. P. King. I have had the pleasure of knowmg Dr. King and, particularly, some of his early students, Chen To Tai, Tetsu Morita, Kiyo Tomiyasu, and others, for many years. Dr. King's research papers and the papers of many students represent a sizable portion of the AP Transactions to date. I hope that this history will help our younger members understand the motivation behind much of this large body of work. WFC]
Electrical devices for treatment of arrhythmias

Abstract Electrical devices can be used for preventing and terminating tachycardia and for achieving hemodynamic improvement during a continuing tachycardia. Conventional approaches to tachycardia prevention include pacing at physiologic rates to prevent bradycardia-related tachycardia or tachycardias associated with prolonged QT-interval syndromes. More exotic techniques, such as those involving stimulation during the refractory period, are undergoing investigation. Some tachycardias cannot be easily terminated or recur incessantly. Hemodynamics can be improved by pacing methods that result in a narrower QRS complex by coupled pacing and, in supraventricular tachycardias, by pacing rapidly enough to create atrioventricular block. Most clinical tachycardias are caused by reentry. Careful analysis of the timing of individual stimuli that successfully terminate tachycardias indicate that critical relations exist in the conduction velocity, refractoriness and physical properties and dimensions of the reentry circuit and the remaining myocardium. Elucidating these relations has permitted inferences into the mechanisms by which pacing terminates or accelerates tachycardias. A vast number of pacing patterns have evolved for use in tachycardia termination. None of these appear to be foolproof. There is widespread and justified concern about the risk of acceleration of tachycardia when antitachycardia pacing is used in the ventricle. Experience indicates that only a few patients are suitable for termination of ventricular tachycardia by pacing, but these carefully selected patients may do well. Both the results and the potential for widespread use may be better with pacing for termination of supraventricular tachycardia. Life-threatening tachycardias or fibrillation can be terminated by direct-current countershock. Although many technical problems remain, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, possibly combined with antitachycardia pacemakers, will play an increasing role in the management or serious arrhythmias.
Three-Dimensional QSAR Analysis and Design of New 1,2,4-Oxadiazole Antibacterials

The oxadiazole antibacterials, a class of newly discovered compounds that are active against Gram-positive bacteria, target bacterial cell-wall biosynthesis by inhibition of a family of essential enzymes, the penicillin-binding proteins. Ligand-based 3D-QSAR analyses by comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA), comparative molecular shape indices analysis (CoMSIA) and Field-Based 3D-QSAR evaluated a series of 102 members of this class. This series included inactive compounds as well as compounds that were moderately to strongly antibacterial against Staphylococcus aureus. Multiple models were constructed using different types of energy minimization and charge calculations. CoMFA derived contour maps successfully defined favored and disfavored regions of the molecules in terms of steric and electrostatic properties for substitution.
CD8+ T-Cells as Immune Regulators of Multiple Sclerosis

The vast majority of studies regarding the immune basis of MS (and its animal model, EAE) have largely focused on CD4(+) T-cells as mediators and regulators of disease. Interestingly, CD8(+) T-cells represent the predominant T-cell population in human MS lesions and are oligoclonally expanded at the site of pathology. However, their role in the autoimmune pathologic process has been both understudied and controversial. Several animal models and MS patient studies support a pathogenic role for CNS-specific CD8(+) T-cells, whereas we and others have demonstrated a regulatory role for these cells in disease. In this review, we describe studies that have investigated the role of CD8(+) T-cells in MS and EAE, presenting evidence for both pathogenic and regulatory functions. In our studies, we have shown that cytotoxic/suppressor CD8(+) T-cells are CNS antigen-specific, MHC class I-restricted, IFNγ- and perforin-dependent, and are able to inhibit disease. The clinical relevance for CD8(+) T-cell suppressive function is best described by a lack of their function during MS relapse, and importantly, restoration of their suppressive function during quiescence. Furthermore, CD8(+) T-cells with immunosuppressive functions can be therapeutically induced in MS patients by glatiramer acetate (GA) treatment. Unlike CNS-specific CD8(+) T-cells, these immunosuppressive GA-induced CD8(+) T-cells appear to be HLA-E restricted. These studies have provided greater fundamental insight into the role of autoreactive as well as therapeutically induced CD8(+) T-cells in disease amelioration. The clinical implications for these findings are immense and we propose that this natural process can be harnessed toward the development of an effective immunotherapeutic strategy.
Induction of Cytochrome P450 1a1 and 1b1 by Photooxidized Tryptophan in Transformed Human Keratinocytes

L-Tryptophan was oxidized by UVA, UVB, or UVC irradiation and the effect of oxidized tryptophan (OT) was investigated for its ability to induce CYP 1 A l and 1B 1 in a human keratinocyte cell line (HaCat). The results obtained demonstrate that tryptophan oxidized by UVA, UVB, or UVC produced photoproducts which caused a significant induction of 7-ethoxyresorufm 0-deethylase (EROD) activity in HaCat cells. The induction of EROD activity by UVB-OT was studied in greater detail. The results demonstrate that induction of EROD activity by UVB-OT was dose-and time-dependent. Results with immunoblot analyses showed that administration of UVB-OT, but not unoxidized tryptophan, caused a marked induction of CYP 1 A 1 and 1B 1 proteins in HaCat cells.
Winning Hearts and Minds? The Role of the Internet in Shaping Attitudes Toward Terrorism

As Internet access becomes more widespread, the availability of information and opportunity for online dialogue expand. Increasingly, however, violent extremists take advantage of the technology to radicalize and recruit supporters. This study tests the assumption that, by exposing people to a greater diversity of information and perspectives, the Internet is inherently a tool for counterterrorism. Regression analysis of data from the 2011 Pew Global Research Project is used to determine how access to the Internet affects attitudes toward terrorism in five predominately Muslim countries. The results indicate the role of the Internet varies greatly by country, pointing to the need to develop context-specific online strategies for counterterrorism.