cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toll-like receptors in antiviral innate immunity

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are fundamental sensor molecules of the host innate immune system, which detect conserved molecular signatures of a wide range of microbial pathogens and initiate innate immune responses via distinct signaling pathways. Various TLRs are implicated in the early interplay of host cells with invading viruses, which regulates viral replication and/or host responses, ultimately impacting on viral pathogenesis. To survive the host innate defense mechanisms, many viruses have developed strategies to evade or counteract signaling through the TLR pathways, creating an advantageous environment for their propagation. Here we review the current knowledge of the roles TLRs play in antiviral innate immune responses, discuss examples of TLR-mediated viral recognition, and describe strategies used by viruses to antagonize the host antiviral innate immune responses.
Endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidase from fig latex☆

Commercially available fig latex contains several endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidases which catalyze the reaction: (Man)nG1cNAcβ1→4G1cNAcAsn → (Man)nG1cNAc + G1cNAcAsn. Using (NH4)2SO4 fractionation followed by chromatography on Sephadex G-100 and DEAE-Sephadex A-50, two distinct types of endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidases have been partially purified and characterized. One, called F-I, hydrolyzes the di-N-acetylchitobiosyl linkage in the glycopeptide, (Man)3(G1cNAc)2Asn prepared from human IgG, much faster than that linkage in the glycopeptides, (Man)5(G1cNAc)2Asn and (Man)6(G1cNAc)2Asn both from ovalbumin. The other, called F-II, hydrolyzes the same linkage in (Man)5(G1cNAc)2-Asn and (Man)6(G1cNAc)2Asn, but not that in (Man)3(G1cNAc)2Asn.
Additional Measurements of the Impact of Carnivores on California Voles (Microtus californicus)

Predation by feral cats, raccoons, foxes, and skunks upon Microtus californicus was measured during the collapse of a dense population of voles and was found to agree well with measurements made during the preceding cycle. In 5 months the number of carnivores on the 35-acre study area dropped from 2.16 to 0.36, the number of Microtus present per carnivore varied between 224 and 880 in different months, and the percentage of the Microtus population eaten in each month varied from 33 to 5. The number of Microtus eaten per month per carnivore varied from 109 to 40. Predation pressure, measured by the ratio number of voles per number of carnivores was most intense at the end of the crash. As the vole population declined, the carnivores ate relatively more gophers, harvest mice, rabbits, birds, and reptiles. The data support the theory that carnivore predation during a crash and especially during the early stages of the subsequent population low determines to a large extent the amplitude and timing of the microtine cycle of abundance.
A retrospective study of the addition of ciprofloxacin to clarithromycin and ethambutol in the treatment of disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex infection

Disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (DMAC) infection is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in HIV-infected individuals. The combination antibiotic regimens containing clarithromycin can decrease symptoms and improve survival in patients with DMAC, however, optimal therapy remains to be defined. Quinolones have been widely used in the treatment of DMAC but their utility has not been established. A retrospective cohort study of DMAC infection was established in a metropolitan hospital providing comprehensive care to over 3000 HIV-infected individuals. Medical records of patients with DMAC diagnosed at the Parkland Memorial Hospital from 1991 to 1994 were reviewed for therapeutic regimens for DMAC, concomitant therapy for HIV and Pneumocystis carinii prophylaxis and date of death. Subjects were included if they were treated with clarithromycin and ethambutol. Cases were defined as those patients who received more than 30 days of ciprofloxacin as therapy for DMAC in addition to the other drugs that they received. The primary endpoint was the time to death from the data of DMAC diagnosis. Covariates effecting survival were analysed through the Cox proportional hazards model. Eighty-nine subjects with DMAC who were treated with clarithromycin and ethambutol were identified. Fifty-eight received ciprofloxacin in addition to clarithromycin and ethambutol. The time to death was significantly better in those subjects who were treated with ciprofloxacin than those who were not (489 days vs 281 days, P=0.01). The sole significant predictor of improved survival on Cox proportional hazards model was ciprofloxacin therapy. Subjects treated with combination of clarithromycin, ethambutol and ciprofloxacin had improved survival over those treated with clarithromycin and ethambutol alone.
A simple phenomenological model of the Josephson effects in superconducting weak links

The dependence of pair density on pair velocity is used to formulate a simple model of the total current in a superconducting weak link. The model implies a phase-dependent conductivity and predicts its temperature variation, gives a kinematic description of the Josephson oscillations, and relates the critical current to a quasiparticle-pair relaxation time.
Reshaping diabetes care: The fundamental role of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in clinical practice

Abstract Objective To update clinicians on the most recent safety and efficacy data on current incretin-based strategies for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods Title searches were conducted in the Pubmed database to identify literature pertaining to the safety and efficacy of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. Product-specific title searches included the terms exenatide, liraglutide, linagliptin, saxagliptin, sita-gliptin, and vildagliptin. Results The recent literature has introduced us to newer DPP-4 inhibitors and longer-acting GLP-1RAs, updated meta-analyses assessing the safety and efficacy of incretin-based therapies, and studies exploring the use of incretin-based treatments in broader clinical settings such as combination therapy with insulin. Meta-analyses have demonstrated placebo-adjusted glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) reductions of ~1% with GLP-1RAs and 0.6 to 0.8% with DPP-4 inhibitors and have suggested cardioprotective effects such as reduction of cardiovascular events and improvement of lipid profile. As a class, these agents have consistently demonstrated low risks of hypoglycemia relative to other agents. Conclusion Incretin-based therapies are characterized by an overall favorable safety profile and weight effect, a low risk of hypoglycemia, and clinically meaningful improvements in HbA1c. Based on an expanding and favorable literature describing their use in various patient populations, the guidelines of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the recently updated guidelines from the American Diabetes Association assign these agents a central role in the treatment of T2D. (Endocr Pract. 2013;19:718-728)
The effects of hyaluronidase on interstitial hydration, plasma protein exclusion, and microvascular permeability in the isolated perfused rat heart

Hyaluronic acid, a principal glycosaminoglycan of the cardiac interstitium, may have a role in interstitial hydration, interstitial plasma protein exclusion and microvascular transport process (Wiederhielm, 1976b). We have investigated whether hyaluronidase reduces myocardial hyaluronate concentrations and thereby alters these several physical aspects in the isolated rat heart. Studies were conducted in ischemic, as well as aerobic hearts because of the reported therapeutic efficacy of the enzyme in myocardial ischemia. Two hours of perfusion with hyaluronidase significantly reduced myocardial hyaluronate content. Additionally, hyaluronidase decreased interstitial volume of both aerobic and otherwise edematous ischemic hearts, and prevented ischemic induced increased coronary vascular resistance in ischemic hearts. However, hyaluronidase did not effect the albumin interstitial exclusion volume or microvascular albumin and sorbitol exchange in aerobic hearts. In ischemic hearts, the enzyme did not prevent nor enhance the increase in microvascular permeability which occurred. We conclude that hyaluronate is neither a determinant of interstitial protein exclusion nor microvascular permeability, but plays an important role in interstitial hydration.
Application of 2D IR correlation analysis to phase transitions in Langmuir monolayer films

Abstract The surface pressure-dependent conformational state of a monolayer film of 1,2-dipalmitoyl- sn -glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) at the air–water (A/W) interface was studied using infrared external-reflection spectroscopy and two-dimensional infrared (2D IR) correlation analysis. When the IR spectra of the DPPC monolayer was collected using polarized IR radiation, a band splitting was observed in both the antisymmetric ( ν a ) and symmetric ( ν s ) methylene CH 2 stretching modes that was not observed with unpolarized radiation. This band splitting was interpreted as being due to the presence of co-existing ordered and disordered conformational states, however, definitive identification of conformational sub-bands is problematic due to the low signal-to-noise inherent in the polarized IR spectra. To further investigate the spectral changes observed in the CH region, 2D IR correlation analysis was applied to a set of pressure-dependent unpolarized IR spectra of the DPPC monolayer. When these unpolarized spectra were analyzed using 2D IR methods, the 2D asynchronous correlation spectrum of the DPPC monolayer clearly showed that cross peaks attributable to the ν a and ν s CH 2 bands both split into two components, in agreement with the polarized IR monolayer spectra. Since band splitting in 2D IR spectra may be due to several causes, computer simulations were undertaken to help elucidate the exact cause of the observed splitting in the DPPC 2D asynchronous spectrum. Synthetic monolayer IR spectra were calculated for two limiting cases. The first was a ‘frequency shifting’ model in which a single band underwent a simple frequency shift. The second limiting case was an ‘overlapped peaks’ model in which an overall vibrational band was calculated as the sum of two individual sub-bands whose frequencies remained constant, but whose relative intensities changed through the simulated monolayer transition. The results of the computer simulations indicated that a simple frequency shift could be distinguished in the 2D asynchronous spectrum by the presence of a quartet of cross peaks, two with positive correlation intensities, and two with negative. In addition, a curved elongation of these cross peaks along the diagonal was associated with this frequency shift. In contrast, the 2D asynchronous spectrum for two overlapped peaks resulted in a correlation intensity cross peak doublet, one positive and one negative with no elongation along the diagonal. The experimentally measured 2D IR asynchronous correlation spectrum for the DPPC monolayer closely resembled the computer-simulated spectra for the ‘overlapped peaks’ model. Therefore, the origin of the band splitting in the ν a and ν s CH 2 bands in the 2D asynchronous spectrum is due to overlapping sub-bands that represent the ordered and disordered conformational states of the monolayer. Furthermore, these results also support the interpretation that the sub-bands observed in the polarized monolayer IR spectra are correlated with ordered and disordered monolayer states.
Stereoselective conjugate addition - alkylations of α,β-unsaturated iron acyls

Abstract Conjugate additions and conjugate addition-alkylations proceed with very high stereoselectivity to α,β-unsaturated acyls of n 5 -CpFe(CO)(PPh 3 ). Oxidative cleavage of the products provides high yields of organic acid derivatives (esters, β-lactams) with almost complete control of relative stereochemistry.
Managing Chaos: Lessons Learned Developing Software in the Life Sciences

In the life sciences, the need to balance the costs and benefits of introducing software processes into a research environment presents a distinct set of challenges due to the cultural disconnect between life sciences research and software engineering. The Institute for Systems Biology's research informatics team has studied these challenges and developed a software process to address them.
Sodium fluoride: an ineffective inhibitor of glycolysis

Entrenched in current laboratory protocols for the measurement of plasma glucose is the false belief that sodium fluoride (NaF) is an effective inhibitor of glycolysis. The failure of NaF to properly control glycolysis decreases plasma glucose concentrations. The amount of the decrease can be clinically significant. The most recent (2011) laboratory guidelines for diagnosis and management of diabetes mellitus, approved by the American Diabetes Association, no longer recommend the use of NaF alone to control glycolysis. If plasma cannot be iced and separated from cells within 30 min of collection, the new guidelines recommend the use of a tube that contains a low pH buffer such as citrate. Proper control of glycolysis will affect current glucose cut-off points, but the exact effect is yet to be defined.
Using laser speckle statistics and a variable-coherence source for imaging in diffuse media

We demonstrate the potential for imaging inhomogeneities within a diffuse medium by analyzing the laser speckle statistics formed by a variable-coherence source. The coherence requirements of the source are discussed and some experimental results are presented.
Nonlinear Aeroelastic Modeling and Analysis of Fully Flexible Aircraft

*† This paper introduces an approach to effectively model the nonlinear aeroelastic behavior of fully flexible aircraft. The study is conducted based on a nonlinear strainedbased finite element framework in which the developed low-order formulation captures the nonlinear (large) deflection behavior of the wings, and the unsteady subsonic aerodynamic forces acting on them. Instead of merely considering the nonlinearity of the wings, the paper will allow all members of the vehicle to be flexible. Due to their characteristics of being long and slender structures, the wings, tail, and fuselage of highly flexible aircraft can be modeled as beams undergoing three dimensional displacements and rotations. The cross-sectional stiffness and inertia properties of the beams are calculated along the span, and then incorporated into the 1-D nonlinear beam model. Finite-state unsteady subsonic aerodynamic loads are incorporated to be coupled with all lifting surfaces, so as to complete the state space aeroelastic model. Different Sensorcraft concepts are modeled and studied, including conventional single-wing and joined-wing aircraft configurations with flexible fuselage and tail. Based on the proposed models, roll responses and stabilities are studied and compared with linearized and rigidized models. At last, effects of the flexibility of the fuselage and tail on the roll maneuver and stability of the aircraft are presented.
Nicotine is a neurotoxin in the adolescent brain: critical periods, patterns of exposure, regional selectivity, and dose thresholds for macromolecular alterations

In the fetus, nicotine is a neuroteratogen that elicits cell damage and loss and subsequent abnormalities of synaptic function. We explored whether these effects extend into adolescence, the period when most people begin smoking. Beginning on postnatal day 30, rats were given a 1 week regimen of nicotine infusions or twice-daily injections, at doses (0.6, 2 and 6 mg/kg/day) set to achieve plasma levels found in occasional to regular smokers. We assessed indices of cell packing density and cell number (DNA concentration and content), cell size (total protein/DNA ratio) and neuritic projections (membrane/total protein) in the midbrain, hippocampus and cerebral cortex, three regions known to be vulnerable to developmental effects of nicotine. With either route of administration, nicotine evoked shortfalls in DNA concentration and content, compensatory elevations of total protein/DNA, and reductions in the membrane/total protein ratio. Nearly all of the effects were apparent even at the lowest dose of nicotine and remained fully evident 1 month posttreatment. Although both males and females showed significant alterations, in general the effects were larger in females. Our results indicate that in adolescence, even a brief period of continuous or intermittent nicotine exposure, elicits lasting alterations in biomarkers associated with cellular and neuritic damage. As the effects are detected at exposures that produce plasma concentrations one-tenth of those in regular smokers, the exquisite sensitivity of the adolescent brain to nicotine neurotoxicity may contribute to lasting neurobehavioral damage even in occasional smokers.
TOUGH LOVE? CRIME AND PARENTAL ASSISTANCE IN YOUNG ADULTHOOD*

Although informal social reactions to crime are key to many criminological theories, we know little about how readily offenders' significant others reject and withdraw support from them. I explore the limits of others' willingness to help offenders by studying parents' financial assistance of grown offending and nonoffending offspring. I use data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health and from the 1997 cohort of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth to show that, despite their strained relationships with their parents, young adult offenders receive more parental assistance than do their nonoffending peers and even their own nonoffending siblings. This is not because offenders have fewer financial resources, but it is partly because they tend to have a variety of other life circumstances that trigger parental assistance. I suggest that parents' reactions to offending offspring are limited by role obligations and norms of familial duty.
The contributions of economics to tourism

Abstract Both the logical and empirical dimensions of economic analysis have contributed to the quality of decisionmaking in the tourism industry. In particular, the recognition of the potential contribution of economic rent derived from tourist attractions and the complex role of public goods have aided the understanding of the functioning of tourism. On more practical levels, market segmentation has a part to play in maximizing revenues by reducing the adverse effects of seasonality, and empirical research on tourism demand has provided basic underpinnings for national development programs and project research. Finally, cost-benefit analysis allows the industry to judge its contributions more correctly in the light of other applications of scarce resources.
An International Analysis of Historical and Forecast Earnings in Accounting-Based Valuation Models

: In this paper we examine whether the valuation properties of historical accounting amounts, namely earnings and equity book value, differ from those of forecasted earnings for firms in 17 developed countries classified into six accounting regimes. We compare the performance of a historical model and a residual-income forecast model for explaining security prices. The historical model uses the book value of equities and actual historical earnings and the forecast model uses the book value of equities and analysts' forecasts of earnings in the residual income for estimating the intrinsic value of the firm. The results suggest that book values, historical earnings or forecasted earnings are value relevant in most regimes and countries examined. The forecast model offers significantly greater explanatory power for security prices than the historical model in the Anglo-Saxon and North American countries, Japan, Germany, and three Nordic countries. The explanatory power of the historical model is similar to that of the forecast model in the Latin countries, two Nordic countries, and Switzerland. We find that the forecast model performs similarly to the historical model where financial analysts' forecasts are noisy and analysts are less active. Further results indicate that the forecasted earnings are more value-relevant than the historical earnings in countries with stronger investor protection laws, less conservative GAAP, greater income conservatism, and more transparent accounting systems.
Programming, demarcating, and manipulating CD8+ T-cell memory.

In response to infection, antigen-specific CD8 + T cells undergo massive expansion in numbers, acquire effector mechanisms, and disseminate throughout the body. The expansion phase is followed by a contraction (death) phase, where 90-95% of antigen-specific CD8 + T cells are eliminated. The remaining antigen-specific CD8 + T cells form the initial memory pool, which can be stably maintained for life. In this review, we discuss evidence that early events after infection 'program' CD8 + T cells to expand, contract, and generate memory in a fashion that is largely insensitive to the duration of infection or antigen display. Recent data demonstrate, despite numerical stability, that memory CD8 + T-cell populations undergo phenotypic and functional changes with time after immunization. However, the early suggestion that specific markers can be used to identify memory CD8 + T cells has not been supported by recent studies. Thus, we argue that specific functional characteristics, such as the ability to persist and undergo vigorous secondary expansion leading to elevated memory cell numbers, remain the best markers of 'good' memory cells. Finally, we discuss experimental approaches to manipulate and accelerate generation of CD8 + T cells with memory characteristics, and how these systems can inform both basic and applied immunology.
Web-based construction project management systems: how to make them successful?

This paper describes research conducted at Purdue University on the identification of factors determining success or failure of web-based construction project management systems, particularly through the use of application service providers utilized by construction firms without in-house expertise to develop such systems for exclusive company use.
Horizon-Induced Optimism as a Gateway to Earnings Management

Recent work in accounting suggests that managerial optimism can lead managers to escalate income-increasing earnings management. In this paper, I examine how a fundamental attribute of the earnings management setting – the amount of time between the earnings management decision and the future reversal – serves as one potential source of managerial optimism. I conduct two experiments to test whether the amount of time between the earnings management decision and the future reversal systematically induces optimism that increases participants’ propensity to engage in behavior that is analogous to accruals-based earnings management and to real earnings management, holding constant incentives, agency frictions, and the information environment. My results indicate that, independent of their innate optimism, the time between the earnings management decision and the future reversal likely encourages managers to overestimate their ability to compensate for current-period earnings management through strong future performance. This optimism, in turn, likely increases managers’ propensity to engage in both forms of earnings management.
Biofilm dynamics at the gingival frontier

Microbial biofilms are common in the human body and in the environment. In recent years, dental plaque has been identified as a biofilm, and the structure, microbiology, and pathophysiology of dental biofilms have been characterised. The nature of the biofilm enhances the component bacterias' resistance to both the host's defence system and antimicrobials. If not removed regularly the biofilm undergoes maturation, resulting in dental caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis. The control of biofilm accumulation on teeth has been the cornerstone of periodontal disease prevention for decades. However, the widespread prevalence of gingivitis suggests the inefficiency of self-performed mechanical plaque control in preventing gingival inflammation. Studies indicate that effective antiseptic mouth-washes can provide significant gingivitis reduction beyond what can be accomplished with only brushing and flossing. Particularly, mouthrinses containing essential oils have well documented clinical antiplaque and antigingivitis effects. These mouthrinses have a positive track record of safety and their use does not increase the levels of resistant species. In summary, use of a well-established, essential oil mouthrinse can be recommended for daily use as an adjunct to mechanical methods of plaque control.
A One-Credit Hands-On Introductory Course in Electrical and Computer Engineering Using a Variety of Topic Modules

This paper describes a one-credit laboratory course for freshmen majoring in electrical and computer engineering (ECE). The course is motivational in nature and exposes the students to a wide range of areas of electrical and computer engineering. The authors believe it is important to give freshmen a broad perspective of what ECE is all about, and to shine some light on topics they will see later in the curriculum. Yet with limited total credit hours in the curriculum, the ECE Department did not want to commit a significant number of hours, nor did the Department want to take significant study time away from the students' core freshman courses, such as calculus and physics. The resulting single-credit-hour course meets only one day a week for two hours, with a format that combines both lecture and experimentation. The course is divided into a series of one- to three-week modules, each covering a selected topic in electrical and computer engineering. This paper describes the purpose, format, and content of the course. A survey of the students regarding the course is also discussed.
Comparative analysis of autogenous infrainguinal bypass grafts in African Americans and Caucasians: the association of race with graft function and limb salvage.

Objective African Americans (AAs) are at risk for developing diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis. Whether race influences the results of infrainguinal arterial reconstruction is unclear. The purpose of this study was to compare the results of autogenous infrainguinal bypasses in AAs and Caucasians to determine the association of race with graft function and limb salvage. Methods This was a retrospective, comparative cohort study of AA and Caucasian patients who had undergone autogenous infrainguinal bypass surgery. Only single-limb bypasses in each patient cohort were considered in this analysis. In patients who had undergone bilateral lower limb bypasses, the first limb bypass was chosen as the index bypass procedure. Results From January 1985 to December 2003, 1459 autogenous infrainguinal bypasses were performed in 1459 patients for lower limb ischemia. Within this group, 89 AA patients/vein grafts formed the study cohort. The control group comprised 1370 Caucasian patients/vein grafts. Compared with the Caucasian cohort, AA patients were significantly younger (median age, 65 vs 70 years, respectively; P = .001) and predominantly female (57% vs 41%, respectively; P = .002). AA patients also had a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, congestive heart failure, and dialysis-dependent renal failure. More AA than Caucasian patients presented with gangrene (34% vs 16%, respectively; P = .001), and more underwent bypass surgery for limb salvage indications (91% vs 81%, respectively; P = .01). The venous conduit used was predominantly the greater saphenous vein (AA, 83%; Caucasian, 85%), and the site of distal anastomosis was at the tibial/pedal level in 67% of AA and 61% of Caucasian patients. Overall morbidity (AA, 28%; Caucasian, 23%) and 30-day mortality (AA, 3%; Caucasian, 3%) were similar. Thirty-day graft failure was significantly greater in AAs than Caucasians (12% vs 5%, respectively; P = .003). The overall 5-year primary graft patency (±SE) was significantly worse in AA patients (AA, 52% ± 6%; Caucasian, 67% ± 2%; P = .009). The 5-year limb salvage rate (±SE) was also significantly worse in AA patients (AA, 81% ± 5%; Caucasian, 90% ± 1%; P = .04). With the Cox proportional hazard model, significant risk factors associated with primary graft failure were AA race, age younger than 65 years, female sex, secondary reconstructions, tibial bypasses, and critical limb ischemia. Significant risk factors associated with limb loss were age younger than 65 years, female sex, absence of coronary disease, presence of critical limb ischemia, and secondary reconstructions. Conclusions Autogenous infrainguinal bypass surgery in AAs is associated with poorer primary graft patency and limb salvage rates compared with those of Caucasians. This may partially account for the higher rate of limb loss in AA patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease.
Territorial expansion and primary state formation

A major research problem in anthropology is the origin of the state and its bureaucratic form of governance. Of particular importance for evaluating theories of state origins are cases of primary state formation, whereby a first-generation state evolves without contact with any preexisting states. A general model of this process, the territorial-expansion model, is presented and assessed with archaeological data from six areas where primary states emerged in antiquity: Mesoamerica, Peru, Egypt, Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and China. In each case, the evidence shows a close correspondence in time between the first appearance of state institutions and the earliest expansion of the state's political-economic control to regions lying more than a day's round-trip from the capital. Although additional research will add detail and clarity to the empirical record, the results to date are consistent with the territorial-expansion model, which argues that the success of such long-distance expansion not only demanded the bureaucratization of central authority but also helped provide the resources necessary to underwrite this administrative transformation.
Rich Immersive Sports Experience: A Hybrid Multimedia System for Content Consumption

Recent widespread use of multimedia-enabled devices has prompted the industry to look at systems which can provide a distributed, synchronized content consumption experience. Motorola has partnered with Purdue University's eStadium project to create the Rich Immersive Sports Experience (RISE) project. RISE is an attempt to design and develop such a system geared toward use in suites in Purdue's Ross-Ade football stadium. The core of the system is Motorola's Media Bundle technology that represents content and timing information for the TV screens and smart phones used in the system. This paper discusses the design process for the RISE system, how Media Bundles are used, and our solutions to issues of synchronization, speed, reliability, and scalability.
Distributed operating systems support for scheduling atomic real-time transactions

The authors define and discuss novel distributed resource-scheduling algorithms which provide the support for efficient real-time operations on replicated distributed files, realizing them in the manner of distributed atomic real-time transactions. They first define a base algorithm version, called simultaneous enqueuing, and give its relevant properties: starvation-freeness and a minimal message overhead. They then enhance this algorithm by mechanisms which allow for promoting tasks ahead of resource competitors, e.g. because of an earlier deadline. This leads to the hurry-up version of simultaneous enqueuing. A first series of simulation experiments was performed under varying resource contention, and with varying upper bounds for the task laxity, using partial ordering resource scheduling as a benchmark. The results are very favorable for the algorithms which are implemented as part of the kernel services of the real-time version of the distributed operating system DRAGON SLAYER, designer to support is distributed and adaptive replicated file system MELODY. >
A review of the technological feasibility of aquacultures for municipal wastewater treatment

The technical feasibility of utilising aquacultures for municipal wastewater treatment is reviewed. Aquacultures containing one or more aquatic weeds are cost effective for secondary and tertiary wastewater treatment, compared to the highly energy intensive conventional secondary and tertiary wastewater treatment systems. The major advantages are less capital and maintenance costs required as opposed to conventional wastewater treatment. Aquatic treatment systems utilising one or two aquatic weeds are efficient in substantial removal of phosphorus and nitrogen from the wastewater compared to the conventional secondary and tertiary wastewater treatment systems. Further, biogas generated from the harvested aquatic weed biomass could meet the treatment costs of the aquatic treatment systems utilising these aquatic weeds. Year round treatment of municipal wastewater utilising these aquatic weeds is possible even in the temperate regions of the world by housing the treatment systems in green houses. Other aqua...
Structure, Bioadhesive Distribution and Elastic Properties of the Agglutinated Test of Astrammina rara (Protozoa: Foraminiferida)

. The fine structure, elastic properties, and distribution of the fibrous, meshlike cement (bioadhesive) were studied for the test of the antarctic agglutinated foraminiferan Astrammina rara. Grain-size analysis of particles incorporated into the test compared with adjacent sediment indicates that A. rara is grain-size selective. Fractured tests curl inward, suggesting that the test is under tension—an impression substantiated by micromanipulation observations. Changes in test appearance were examined by scanning electron microscopy after sequential chemical treatments combined with ultrasonication. Organic fibrils securing fine-grained particulates on the test exterior were removed during initial sonication. A veil of fibrous organic material lining the test interior (i.e. inner organic lining) was removed by treatment with a nonionic detergent, revealing ligamentous cables of bioadhesive securely joining large grains. These cables are partially disrupted by treatment with sodium dodecyl sulfate, and further disrupted by disulfide reducing agents, suggesting that protein is an integral adhesive component. The large detrital grains incorporated into the test are arranged in an interlocked, optimally packed fashion. Together, these observations indicate that the seemingly simple spherical architecture of A. rara's test is in fact quite complex, consisting of large grains compressed by tensile cables of a proteinaceous bioadhesive, with additional rigidity supplied by fine particulate “mortar” deposited externally.
A VLSI sigma delta A/D converter for audio and signal processing applications

The use of sigma-delta has inherent advantages over other techniques and lends itself well to VLSI integration. A sigma-delta modulator for analog/digital conversion featuring third-order noise shaping and a two-stage multirate digital decimation filter is discussed. Design goals included 16-bit resolution and 100-kHz output sample rate. Die area has been kept to a minimum using a 1.5- mu m CMOS process, and only a single +5 V supply is needed. The converter approaches the predicted theoretical signal-to-noise ratio. >
Enhancing student learning in an introductory embedded systems laboratory

As technology advances, curriculum and laboratories are challenged to keep pace. This is especially true in computer engineering, where the range of technologies is constantly broadening and diversifying, as computer-based systems take on many forms and functions in everyday life. The question is, how should a contemporary curriculum train computer-engineering students for the vast scope of embedded system solutions? In this paper, the authors specifically consider where to begin, and ask, can powerful tools empower students to learn? They describe steps taken at Iowa State University to upgrade a sophomore level laboratory in embedded systems. They migrated from the popular 8-bit Motorola 68HC11 microcontroller as the core for a hardware-software development platform to the emerging 32-bit PowerPC 555 microcontroller. The 68HC11 is used in labs at numerous universities across the country and is supported with textbooks and educational packages. Conversely, the PowerPC is new to the academic environment and comes with a rich set of features and development tools. In this paper, they examine the similarities and differences between the laboratory platforms and their impact on student learning. They also identify strengths and weaknesses of the new laboratory environment, based on their own perspective and student feedback.
The relationship between structure and properties in a magnetic precipitation hardened Co-Fe-Ti alloy

The development of magnetic properties during isothermal aging of a solution treated and quenched 82 Co-12 Fe -6 Ti alloy and the relationship of these magnetic properties to the microstructure of the alloy were studied. Specifically, the intrinsic coercivity, initial susceptibility, magnetization, and hysteresis loop shape were correlated with the microstructure observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). During aging at 750°C, a periodic, coherent γ' precipitate (L1 2 superlatliee phase) aligned along the directions of the ferromagnetic fcc matrix was observed. Coarsening of this γ' precipitate results in coercivity increases directly proportional to the precipitate size and in an initial susceptibility that is essentially independent of particle size. These results are explained by a model which considers the interaction of the non-magnetic precipitates with the energy density of a domain wall. The model predicts the coercivity will be directly proportional to the precipitate size, a, for a , the Bloch wall width. The model also predicts an initial susceptibility that is independent of particle size for \delta_{o} where δ o is a wall width parameter. In this study, the maximum coercivity occurred when the microstructure consisted of a complex mixture of coarsened coherent and semi-coherent γ' precipitates. Loss of coherency accelerates the kinetics of coarsening and leads to a coalescence of the individual γ' precipitates into rods along the directions. This coalescence resulted in the magnetic overaging observed for long aging times.
Conformal absorbing boundary conditions for 3-D problems: derivation and applications

Vector absorbing boundary conditions (ABCs) for doubly curved surfaces are presented, and their applicability to finite elements for scattering calculations are discussed. A performance study of these ABCs is carried out in terms of accuracy and computational requirement, and scattering patterns for several targets are included for validation purposes. It is found that accurate far-field results can be obtained by terminating the finite element mesh a fraction of a wavelength from the scattering structure. >
Buying Supermajorities in Finite Legislatures

I analyze the finite-voter version of the Groseclose and Snyder vote-buying model. I identify how the optimal coalition size varies with the underlying preference parameters; derive necessary and sufficient conditions for minimal ma1onty and universal coalitions to form; and show that the necessary condition for minimal majorities found in Groseclose and Snyder is incorrect.
Goodness-of-fit and local identifiability of a receptor-binding radio-pharmacokinetic system

A four-state nonlinear model describing a radiopharmacokinetic system for a hepatic receptor-binding radiopharmaceutical, (/sup 99m/Tc)-galactosyl-neoglycoalbumin, (TcNGA), was tested for goodness-of-fit and local identifiability using scanning data from nine healthy subjects and seven patients with severe liver disease. Based on standard deviations of liver and heart imaging data at equilibria as a measure of observational error, the reduced chi-square ranged from 0.5 to 2.6. Values above 1.2 occurred when the subject moved during the 30 min study. Relative standard errors for each parameter were determined. The highest standard errors occurred when the amount of TcNGA injected exceeded the total amount of receptor. Therefore, when TcNGA functional imaging was performed without excess patient motion and receptor saturation, the kinetic model provided data fits of low systematic error and yielded high precision estimates of receptor concentration and forward binding rate constant. >
Pharmacodynamic Target Attainment for Various Ceftazidime Dosing Schemes in High-Flux Hemodialysis

Ceftazidime is a broad-spectrum cephalosporin with high-level activity against a variety of Gram-negative pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Improved outcomes are associated with cumulative percentages of a 24-h period that the drug concentration exceeds the MIC under steady-state pharmacokinetic conditions (%TMIC) of >45 to 70% of the dosing interval. Optimal dosing to achieve a 90% probability of target attainment (PTA) in patients receiving high-flux hemodialysis (HFHD) is unknown. We used existing data from six anephric adults receiving hemodialysis to construct a population model with the Pmetrics package for R. From the final model's joint probability density, we simulated the PTA for various ceftazidime dosing regimens, HFHD schedules, and organism MICs. For HFHD every 48 h and 1 g of ceftazidime given posthemodialysis, the PTA exceeds 90% for all isolates with MICs of ≤8 μg/ml, assuming a goal of 70%TMIC. For 72-h dialysis intervals, postdialysis dosing of 1 g is adequate for achievement of the 70%TMIC goal only for organisms with MICs of ≤4 μg/ml, while 2 g is adequate for organisms with MICs of ≤8 μg/ml. A dose of 500 mg once daily, regardless of HFHD schedule, has a 90% PTA for organisms with MICs of ≤16 μg/ml, while 1 g once daily may achieve 100% PTA even for resistant organisms with a MIC of 32 μg/ml. Therefore, to ensure maximal ceftazidime activity, once-daily dosing of 500 mg to 1 g ceftazidime in patients receiving HFHD may be preferable for critically ill patients when MIC data are unavailable and for more resistant organisms with ceftazidime MICs of 16 to 32 μg/ml.
New Horizons in Research on Emerging and Young Adulthood

In this chapter I present some ideas about the future of the field of emerging adulthood. First, I explain my reasons for coining “emerging adulthood,” focusing on the vast changes that have taken place in the nature of the 18–24 age period over the past century. Next, I propose some new areas of inquiry for the years to come. These include exploring the next developmental stage beyond emerging adulthood – young adulthood – which I suggest is distinguished by role immersion. I also advocate greater exploration of the many paths through emerging adulthood. Within countries, variations by social class and ethnicity are notable. Between countries, there are many potential variations in the experience of emerging adulthood in Europe and Asia. Perhaps most compelling of all in the decades to come will be to examine the birth of emerging adulthood in developing countries, as those countries move increasingly toward the demographic patterns that have led to a new life stage of emerging adulthood in economically developed countries: longer and more widespread education and later ages of entering marriage and parenthood.
Stakeholder Relationship Bonds

Scholars and managers continue to seek a better explanation for the behaviours displayed by various stakeholders. An enhanced understanding of the drivers of these behaviours ought to improve an organization's ability to appropriately manage relationships with stakeholders, thereby improving firm performance. This paper provides a detailed look at the concept of a relationship, from the perspective of the stakeholder, by focusing on the perceived psychological bonds that drive a stakeholder to decide whether to continue a relationship with the firm and, if the relationship does continue, how much pro-relationship behaviour to exert. Our analysis works out how the strength of the perceived psychological bond is measured and establishes the conditions under which bonds will be broken. We also develop conditions that either promote or quash stakeholders' pro-relationship behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Inflammation Through a Psychoneuroimmunological Lens

Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is a field in which researchers investigate the intersections among behavior, the nervous system, and the immune system. Its development over the past 35 years followed the realization that the immune system does not function in isolation [1, 2]. The initial focus on biological mechanisms encouraged the use of animal models to uncover pathways through which the brain and behavior affect immune activity. Once biological pathways were established, researchers started replicating similar results in humans with broad applications in areas such as infectious diseases, cardiovascular disease, autoimmunity, and cancer. Today, the transdisciplinary field of PNI continues to unravel the complex connections among behavior, immune function, and health.
Evaluando La Tesis De La Autoridad (Evaluating the Authority Thesis)

Spanish Abstract: De acuerdo con la Tesis de la Autoridad de RAZ, es una verdad conceptual que todo sistema juridico posible pretender poseer autoridad moralmente legitima (o, como lo expresa en otros lugares, un derecho moral a mandar). Esta es la tesis que lo impulsa su rechazo al positivismo juridico incluyente; dado que los criterios de validez incluyentes son conceptualmente incapaces de cumplir la funcion conceptual de la autoridad. Dado que la afirmacion de pretender autoridad implica la posibilidad de cumplir su funcion conceptual, no pueden existir criterios incluyentes o morales de autoridad. En este capitulo, sostendre que la Tesis de la Autoridad es falsa.English Abstract: According to Raz's "Authority Thesis," it is a conceptual truth that every possible legal system claims that it possesses morally legitimate authority (or, as he puts it elsewhere, a moral right to rule). It is this thesis that powers his rejection of inclusive positivism; he argues that inclusive criteria of validity are conceptually incapable of discharging the conceptual function of authority. Since the claim to authority entails the possibility of discharging its conceptual function, there can be no inclusive or moral criteria of validity. I argue that the Authority Thesis is false.
Stability of Grade Prediction Equations for Principles of Marketing

Discriminat functions were derived and used as grade prediction equations for three groups of students who had completed Principles of Marketing. The equations were compared as to the variables, the signs of the variable coefficients, and the percentage of correct classifications in a holdout sample. It was concluded that while discriminant analysis appears to be a useful technique for grade prediction in Principles of Marketing, the optimum discriminant function varies considerably among groups of students.
A real options model of phased migration to cellular manufacturing

The literature is replete with models that examine various aspects of cellular manufacturing (CM), such as optimisation of cell layouts. However, many firms may realise zero to marginal returns from CM. Given this uncertainty, the manager should first determine the value of CM to the firm before deploying it. Although traditional valuation models employing discounted cash flow analysis allow for uncertainty, they treat future investments as fixed when computing the investment’s present value. The real options (RO) logic of valuation allows the manager to exercise the option to invest in or abandon a project based on expected outcomes. Future investments are thus options. This paper presents an RO model for CM migration that addresses whether a firm should migrate to CM; and it prescribes the sequence of cell deployment, which has not been addressed in the literature. Our model is also much more transparent and accessible to practitioners, with an accompanying software tool for prospective users. Finally, ...