cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nano-scale investigation of elastic properties of hydrated cement paste constituents using molecular dynamics simulations

Abstract Hydrated cement paste (HCP), which is present in various cement-based materials, includes a number of constituents with distinct nano-structures. To understand the elastic properties of the HCP at the nano-scale, a comprehensive set of crystalline structures that represent the main HCP constituents is developed for Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations. The accuracy of estimated values is verified by comparing them with the results from experimental tests and other atomistic simulation methods. The outcome of MD simulations is extended to predict the elastic properties of the C–S–H gel by rescaling the values calculated for the individual crystalline structures. To take into account the contribution of porosity, a detailed microporomechanics study is conducted on low- and high-density phases of C–S–H. The obtained results indicate that MD simulations are capable of capturing the elastic properties of the C–S–H gel. This is further verified by comparing the rescaled values with the predictions from nanoindentation tests.
Non-linear systems, stabilization, and coprimeness†

A theory of coprimeness is developed for non-linear systems, with the intention of constructing analytic tools for the solution of the problem of stabilizing a non-linear system through the application of additive non-linear feedback. The qualitative features of the resulting theory are strikingly similar to the situation in the linear case.
A prospective analysis of the changes in ovarian morphology during hormonal pituitary suppression before in vitro fertilization

Objective To assess the change in ovarian morphology at three specific times integral to an IVF cycle, and to evaluate the factors associated with a change in ovarian morphology after pituitary desensitization. Design Prospective cohort analysis. Setting Academic IVF center. Patient(s) Infertile patients undergoing 85 IVF cycles. Intervention(s) Eighty-five patients had a transvaginal ultrasound to assess ovarian morphology on unstimulated menstrual day 3, 21 days after starting oral contraceptives (OCs), and 14 days after starting GnRH agonist (GnRH-a). Main Outcome Measure(s) Ovarian morphology. Result(s) Compared with the basal total ovarian volume, ovarian volume was significantly decreased after 21 days of OCs and after 14 days of GnRH-a. A significant decrease was noted in the total number of antral follicles from the basal state to after 21 days of OCs and after 14 days of GnRH-a treatment. There was no significant effect on pregnancy outcome rates. Univariate analysis showed a significant correlation between ovarian morphology and IVF stimulation parameters. Conclusion(s) Hormonal suppression significantly alters ovarian morphology. If the use of ovarian morphology is to be used to counsel patients and predict IVF success as suggested by some studies, it should be standardized for the day the ovarian morphology is evaluated.
The precordial honk

Abstract Seven patients with a loud, intermittent, precordial sound have been described. The quality of the sound suggested the honking noise of a goose, and we have elected to call it the “precordial honk.” This sound may well be the same sound that McKusick 5 and Levine and Harvey 11 have called a “systolic whoop.” The patients had extensive cardiac evaluations which included complete right and left heart catheterizations with cineangiocardiography. The clinical and cardiac catheterization findings are presented, and the various mechanisms for the production of the “precordial honk” are discussed.
COMPUTER-EXTENDED SERIES FOR A SOURCE/SINK DRIVEN GAS CENTRIFUGE*

We have reformulated the general problem of internal flow in a modern, high speed gas centrifuge with sources and sinks in such a way as to obtain new, simple, rigorous closed form analytical solutions. Both symmetric and antisymmetric drives lead us to an ordinary differential equation in place of the usual inhomogeneous Onsager partial differential equation. Owing to the difficulties of exactly solving this sixth order, inhomogeneous, variable coefficient ordinary differential equation we appeal to the power of perturbation theory and techniques. Two extreme parameter regimes are identified, the so-called semi-long bowl approximation and a new short bowl approximation. Only the former class of problems is treated here. The long bowl solution for axial drive is the correct leading order term, just as for pure thermal drive. New O(1) results are derived for radial, drag and heat drives in two dimensions. Then regular asymptotic, even ordered power series expansions for the flow field are carried out on the computer to O(e4) using MACSYMA. These approximations are valid for values of e near unity. In the spirit of Van Dyke, one can carry out this expansion process, in theory, to apparently arbitrary order for arbitrary but finite decay length ratio. Curiously, the flows induced by axial and radial forces are proportional for asymptotically large source scale heights, x*. Corresponding isotope separation integral parameters will be given in a companion paper.
Bond orientational order in smectic liquid crystals

Order in the orientations of bond angles in bulk smectic liquid crystals is investigated. A simple model which couples in-plane bond orientations to a tilt degree of freedom is solved in the mean-field approximation. In addition to the usual smetic-$A$ and smetic-$C$ phases, there is an untilted hexatic phase, with long-range order in the bond angles. Modifications of the meanfield theory due to fluctuations are determined, with the aid of results from the $\ensuremath{\epsilon}=4\ensuremath{-}d$ expansion. Induced sixfold bond-angle order in smectic-$C$ liquid crystals vanishes rapidly near the smectic-$C$ to smectic-$A$ transition temperature, as ${|T\ensuremath{-}{T}_{c}|}^{{\ensuremath{\beta}}_{6}}$, where ${\ensuremath{\beta}}_{6}\ensuremath{\approx}3.59$. A form for the coupling of bond orientational order to density fluctuations is proposed.
Analyzing sensitivity to model form assumptions of infection transmission system models.

Abstract PURPOSE: Transmission system models make restrictive assumptions that might distort the conclusions of model analyses. We propose methods to progressively relax the following assumptions of classical deterministic compartmental models: 1) that the population has an effectively infinite size 2) that contact is instantaneous with no duration, 3) that mixing in this large population is instantaneously thorough after contact. METHODS: Analyses of contact patterns between high and low risk groups on gonorrhea transmission were performed. Initial models were similar to those analyzed by Hethcote and Yorke with compartments corresponding to sets of individuals. The instantaneous contact assumption in these models was relaxed by using continuous deterministic pairing models in the style of models presented by Dietz and Hadelar. That model makes restrictive assumptions about concurrent contacts, population sizes, and instantaneously random mixing. To relax these assumptions, we simulated our GERMS model of discrete individuals forming pairings and transmitting infection in continuous time. RESULTS: Relaxing the instantaneous contact assumption demonstrated a progressively decreased effect of mixing between high and low risk groups as the duration of contact was increased. The GERMS model simulations were shown to effectively reproduce pairing model behavior given the same restrictive assumptions as the pairing model. Further GERMS model analysis then demonstrated that concurrency assumptions alter the effects of contact rates between risk groups in ways that are dependent upon contact parameters. Finally GERMS models were used to structure mixing into four local areas. This affected the dynamics of reaching equilibrium but not the equilibrium value. CONCLUSIONS: Assessing the effects of assumptions in continuous compartmental models of transmission systems is feasible and important.
Modulation of human neutrophil adherence by β-endorphin and met-enkephalin

Early events in an acute inflammatory response include the adherence of neutrophils (PMN) to capillary endothelial cells and the migration of these cells into tissues. This study was designed to determine if the opioid peptides beta-endorphin or met-enkephalin would induce a concentration-dependent increase in PMN adherence to serum-coated glass. Results show that PMN adherence is increased with both beta-endorphin and met-enkephalin and this increase may be partially blocked by the opiate antagonist naloxone. Binding of opioid peptides to the formyl peptide receptor was ruled out as a mechanism of increased adherence by showing that the opioids failed to block the binding of f-met-leu-phe-lys to PMN. These studies suggest that alterations in circulating opioid concentrations may modulate the adherence of PMN and thereby influence acute inflammatory reactions.
100 MHz frequency combs in the XUV spectral region

High-harmonic generation is achieved at 100 MHz repetition rates by utilizing a femtosecond enhancement cavity to increase peak intensities from a mode-locked laser. This provides a coherent frequency comb in the VUV for high-resolution spectroscopy.
Real depth vs randot stereotests.

Purpose To compare the performance of real depth and Randot stereotests in strabismic and nonstrabismic patients. Design Observational case series. Methods Stereoacuity was tested in 182 patients with a variety of strabismic conditions, using the Frisby-Davis 2 (FD2) distance stereotest, the near Frisby (nF) (both real depth tests), the Preschool Randot (nR), and Distance Randot (dR) tests (both based on Polaroid vectographs). Results Patients appreciated finer disparities with the nF test than the nR test at near and with the FD2 test than the dR test at distance. Conclusions The type of stereotest influences measurable thresholds, and the results from different tests are not interchangeable. The choice of test should depend on the question being asked; nF and FD2 would be appropriate for determining presence or absence of stereopsis and best measurable stereopsis. The more rigorous Randot tests would be appropriate for determining subtle changes.
Factual Constraints on Interpreting

A fundamental change in the understanding of interpreting has taken place since the beginning of this century. Many interpreters no longer believe that in interpreting we discover the meaning of what was said or done. Meaning is understood as a product of interpreting, not its object: in terpretations are constructions. This change does not free interpreters from the constraints of objectivity and it does not contribute to the lowering of standards for evaluating interpretations. Three constraints on interpreting can be agreed upon: (1) interpreta tions must be considered applicable by a community concerned with the subject matter of what is interpreted; (2) they are rejected, if they are con tradicted by facts that are considered relevant; (3) they are offered and ac cepted as the best available for a given purpose. In some contexts these constraints are descriptive, in others they are normative. Critics and interpreters agree on these three constraints, even if they disagree in their understanding of the interpreting activity. Critics who understand interpreting on the discovery model offer additional con straints; these may lead to disagreement with those who understand inter preting on the construction model. For example, on the discovery model in terpretations are successful or not, only if we can convince ourselves and others that the meaning of words and deeds has been found or has failed to be found. Since under the new dispensation we are engaged in making rather than in finding, this additonal constraint is vacuous. In what follows, I shall show that no additional constraints are needed lest there be a lower ing of the standards of objectivity in interpreting. I. Our concept of interpreting must be wide enough to be applicable to a variety of contexts. We interpret not only what has been said or done, but also historical, legal or religious documents and art works. Our interpreta tions are stories about agents, texts and art works. When they are so understood, we may at first think that any interpretation will be just as good as any other. Freedom from the narrow confines of the traditional discovery model seems to imply that we are free to tell any story about what others have said or done. After all, if we are engaged in story telling, ques tions about the truth of our story cannot arise. We are not finding, stating
Reentry research: establishment of safe pesticide levels on foliage.

Field reentry studies (KAHN 1979) are often required by the California Department of Food and Agriculture to establish reentry intervals for pesticide-treated orchards or vineyards. These studies are difficult to conduct and the reentry intervals cannot be readily enforced without application records. KNAAK ~1978c) proposed that safe pesticide levels on foliage, in ~g/cm ~ of leaf surface, be established. The establishment of safe levels would allow growers and governmental agencies to determine by test when orchards or vineyards are safe to reenter.
Cloning and sequence analysis of the murine glucagon receptor-encoding gene

Abstract The glucagon receptor (GR) plays a central role in regulating the level of blood glucose by controlling the rate of hepatic glucose production and insulin secretion. To study the integrated role of a candidate gene such as GR in wholebody glucose homeostasis by molecular genetic manipulation, cloning of the gene is required. We have cloned and sequenced the murine GR cDNA, gene and promoter region, and studied its tissue distribution. Murine GR contains 13 exons which are located in a region of 4.0 kb. GR encodes a 485-amino-acid protein that consists of seven putative transmembrane domains. By RT-PCR analysis, we have determined that GR is expressed predominantly in liver, kidney, adrenal, lung and stomach, while lower levels of expression are detected in brown and white adipose tissue, cerebellum, duodenum and heart. In addition, a 1000-bp region of the GR promoter has been sequenced which contains consensus sequences for putative DNA-binding proteins involved in tissue specificity (c/EBP; HNFI) or hormonal regulation (steroid receptor). Other consensus sequences known to function in controlling basal promoter activity, such as AP1, AP2 and Spl, are also present. Conversely, no evident TATA or CAAT boxes are present. We provide here important new information necessary for the future pursuit of genetic manipulations in the mouse.
Principal stress formulation of continua motion

Principal stress coordinates are formulated for a material without tension, with the equations of motion projected onto a selected coordinate system. The translations are achieved by forming the local basis vector in correspondence with the local stress tensor. The principal stress coordinates are described as orthogonal and curvilinear, and the metric is defined. The kinematics and dynamics of the principal stress coordinates are analyzed, the latter in orthogonal coordinates, and an analytic formulation of the dynamics of a no-tension material is provided. Finally, elastic granular material such as sand, soil, etc., which are more complicated versions of no-tension material, are explored.
Couple Sexuality After 60

This conceptual/clinical article explores the psychobiosocial model of understanding and reinforcing couple sexuality in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. The importance of positive, realistic psychological, biological, and relational expectations in facilitating desire, pleasure, eroticism, and satisfaction is key. As couples age, levels of sexual satisfaction can remain high as long as the focus is on being an intimate, erotic team and abandoning the need for perfect intercourse performance. The major advantage of aging sexuality is that the partners' need each other and sexuality is more human and genuine.
A cost effective power sharing strategy for a cascaded multilevel converter based solid state transformer

This paper proposes a power sharing strategy for DC/DC stage of a cascaded multilevel converter based solid state transformer. It is revealed that the equalization of the active power component of duty cycles in the cascaded multilevel rectifier stage can be a good indicator of power balance in the DC/DC stage. Additionally, the power balance of the DC/DC stage can guarantee the voltage balance in the rectifier stage if the differences among the power devices are negligible. Based on this principle, a novel power balance controller without sensing any current in the DC/DC stage is proposed. Both simulation and experimental results in a seven-level three-stage solid state transformer are provided for verifying the proposed method.
Condensed-phase relaxation of multilevel quantum systems. II. Comparison of path integral calculations and second-order relaxation theory for a nondegenerate three-level system.

An exactly solvable model of multisite condensed-phase vibrational relaxation was studied in Paper I (Peter, S.; Evans, D. G.; Coalson, R. D. J. Phys. Chem. B 2006, 110, 18758.), where it was shown that long-time steady-state site populations of a degenerate N-level system are not equal (hence, they are non-Boltzmann) and depend on the initial preparation of the system and the number of sites that it comprises. Here we consider a generalization of the model to the case of a nondegenerate three-level system coupled to a high-dimensional bath: such a model system has direct relevance to a large class of donor−bridge−acceptor electron transfer processes. Because the quantum dynamics of this system cannot be computed analytically, we compare numerically exact path integral calculations to the predictions of second-order time-local relaxation theory. For modest system−bath coupling strengths, the two sets of results are in excellent agreement. They show that non-Boltzmann long-time steady-state site populatio...
Proton exchange membrane and electrode surface areas as factors that affect power generation in microbial fuel cells

Power generation in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is a function of the surface areas of the proton exchange membrane (PEM) and the cathode relative to that of the anode. To demonstrate this, the sizes of the anode and cathode were varied in two-chambered MFCs having PEMs with three different surface areas (APEM=3.5, 6.2, or 30.6 cm2). For a fixed anode and cathode surface area (AAn=ACat=22.5 cm2), the power density normalized to the anode surface area increased with the PEM size in the order 45 mW/m2 (APEM=3.5 cm2), 68 mW/m2 (APEM=6.2 cm2), and 190 mW/m2 (APEM=30.6 cm2). PEM surface area was shown to limit power output when the surface area of the PEM was smaller than that of the electrodes due to an increase in internal resistance. When the relative cross sections of the PEM, anode, and cathode were scaled according to 2ACat=APEM=2AAn, the maximum power densities of the three different MFCs, based on the surface area of the PEM (APEM=3.5, 6.2, or 30.6 cm2), were the same (168±4.53 mW/m2). Increasing the ionic strength and using ferricyanide at the cathode also increased power output.
How Effective Is Effective Dose as a Predictor of Radiation Risk

OBJECTIVE. This article discusses the relatively recent adoption of effective dose in medicine that allows comparison between different imaging techniques, and describes the principles, pitfalls, and potential value of effective dose. The medical community must use this information wisely, realizing that effective dose represents a generic estimate of risk from a given procedure for a generic model of the human body.CONCLUSION. Effective dose is not the risk for any one individual. Due to the inherent uncertainties and oversimplifications involved, effective dose should not be used for epidemiologic studies or for estimating population risks.
Do mobile data plans affect usage? Results from a pricing trial with ISP customers

The growing amount of traffic in mobile data networks is causing concern for Internet service providers (ISPs), especially smaller ISPs that need to lease expensive links to Tier 1 networks. Large amounts of traffic in “peak” hours are of especial concern, since network capacity must be provisioned to accommodate these peaks. In response, many ISPs have begun trying to influence user behavior with pricing. Time-dependent pricing (TDP) can help reduce peaks, since it allows ISPs to charge higher prices during peak periods. We present results from the first TDP trial with a commercial ISP. In addition to analyzing application-specific mobile and WiFi traffic, we compare changes in user behavior due to monthly data caps and time-dependent prices. We find that monthly data caps tend to reduce usage, while TDP can increase usage as users consume more data during discounted times. Moreover, unlike data caps, TDP reduces the network’s peak-to-average usage ratio, lessening the need for network over-provisioning and increasing ISP profit.
Recent developments in real-time MRI techniques and applications

Due in part to the very high flexibility of image contrast, the applications of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) continue to grow. Advances in data acquisition speed, as facilitated by MRI physics, have provided the motivation for specific real-time techniques. For useful and broad implementation this has required that real-time signal processing methods be used. In this work the principal elements of a real-time MRI system are reviewed, major signal processing techniques presented, and several contemporary applications discussed. Further improvements in computational speed will allow increased sophistication in real-time MRI techniques in the future.
Neural networks for continuous-time systems modeling from input/output data

In this paper we have investigated the neural network techniques for estimating the delay and the other parameters of a continuous-time linear system. The algorithm has been tested on a number of examples, including actual noisy sensor data and propagation delay. We have used a simple form of back propagation or gradient descent algorithm for training the network. In terms of computer memory and computation time, our circuit is very simple in structure and requires less hardware for implementation. >
Energy-efficiency bounds for deep submicron VLSI systems in the presence of noise

In this paper, we present an algorithm for computing the bounds on energy-efficiency of digital very large scale integration (VLSI) systems in the presence of deep submicron noise. The proposed algorithm is based on a soft-decision channel model of noisy VLSI systems and employs information-theoretic arguments. Bounds on energy-efficiency are computed for multimodule systems, static gates, dynamic circuits and noise-tolerant dynamic circuits in 0.25-/spl mu/m CMOS technology. As the complexity of the proposed algorithm grows linearly with the size of the system, it is suitable for computing the bounds on energy-efficiency for complex VLSI systems. A key result presented is that noise-tolerant dynamic circuits offer the best trade off between energy-efficiency and noise-immunity when compared to static and domino circuits. Furthermore, employing a 16-bit noise-tolerant Manchester adder in a CDMA receiver, we demonstrate a 31.2%-51.4% energy reduction over conventional systems when operating in the presence of noise. In addition, we compute the lower bounds on energy dissipation for this CDMA receiver and show that these lower bounds are 2.8/spl times/ below the actual energy consumed, and that noise-tolerance reduces the gap between the lower bounds and actual energy dissipation by a factor of 1.9/spl times/.
A system for measuring surface facet orientation from atomic force microscope data

The authors describe a graphical system developed for researchers in materials science for extracting information from data obtained by atomic force microscopy. In particular, they consider the problem of computing surface orientations from data obtained from ceramic materials. The visualization problems they consider in designing this system include finding useful mechanisms for the researcher to interact with the data, presenting results in forms familiar to the scientist, and enhancing traditional display techniques.
A Real-World Application of Lane-Guidance Technologies—Automated Snowblower

This paper describes the development process and the initial field test results of an automated snowblower, focusing on one of the more difficult snow removal operations: blowing snow off the freeway alongside a guardrail without the snowblower touching the guardrail. The development process includes transforming this highway winter maintenance operation into a control problem, modeling a snowblower, designing control algorithms, devising a human-machine interface, and equipping a 20-ton snowblower with sensors and an actuator. Specific challenges include modeling the low-speed tire-induced oscillation, designing high-gain automatic control on front wheels while keeping rear steering under driver control, and implementing such a system under practical limitations. A new dynamic deflection tire model is incorporated into a bicycle model to account for the additional lateral dynamics. A low-order controller was first generated based on the understanding of the specific control problem and, then, refined and tuned iteratively using linear-matrix-inequality optimization. The initial winter field tests were successfully conducted with embedded magnetic markers along the guardrails installed on the shoulders of Interstate-80 in the Sierra Mountain region close to Donner Summit, CA, during the winter of 2005.
Photoelectron spectroscopy of solvated electrons in alcohol and acetonitrile microjets

Photoelectron spectra of solvated electrons in methanol, ethanol, and acetonitrile microjets are reported. Solvated electrons are generated in and detached from microjets using two photons from single nanosecond laser pulses at wavelengths ranging 266 to 213 nm. We find vertical binding energies of 3.38 ± 0.11 eV in methanol and 3.38 ± 0.10 eV in ethanol. Two features are observed in acetonitrile at 2.61 ± 0.11 eV and 3.67 ± 0.15 eV, attributed to the solvated and dimer-bound binding geometries respectively. These results are compared to previous work on solvated cluster anions and alkali-doped solvent clusters.
Large-scale bone mineral histomorphometry-report of a simplified technique.

Karantzoulis V, Liapi C & Papaggelopoulos P (2012) Histopathology Large-scale bone mineral histomorphometry – report of a simplified technique Aims: The aim of this study was the development of a simplified technique for bone mineral histomorphology on large undecalcified bone samples. Established techniques, such as undecalcified bone thin sectioning, ultrathin grinding, surface-stained block grinding and micro-computerized tomography (CT), are expensive, time-consuming and put very high demands on equipment, safety standards, personnel and laboratory facilities. Methods and results: The method is based on the surface-stained block-grinding principle; however, its novelty lies in the selection of user-friendly, safe and low-cost materials, equipment and digitization techniques. We describe in detail the relevant steps, as well as many practical tips for their successful implementation: accurate bone cutting in thin sections with a customized arrangement on a commercial bandsaw, defatting with sodium hypochlorite, embedding in epoxy resin blocks at room temperature, silicon carbide paper grinding, von Kossa staining, flatbed scanner digitization and image processing. Conclusion: We believe that the proposed methodology could contribute to the expansion of the study of bone tissue, as it enables the rapid examination of bone specimens on a large scale with minimal laboratory requirements and consumables costs.
A calculation of the contribution of quasiparticle anisotropy to the isotropic knight shift

Abstract A model Fermi liquid-type calculation is performed to determine the contribution of anisotropy in the quasiparticle-quasiparticle interaction to the isotropic Knight shift. For reasonable values of the parameters of the theory, good agreement with the observed behavior of the Knight shift for small values of impurity concentration is obtained.
Pex--An Intelligent Assistant for Rigorous Developer Testing

Summary form only given. Pex takes test-driven development to the next level. Pex analyzes .NET applications. From a parameterized unit test, which serves as a specification, it automatically produces traditional unit tests cases with high code coverage. Moreover, when a generated test fails, Pex can often suggest a bug fix. To do so Pex performs a systematic program analysis (similar to path bounded model-checking). It records detailed execution traces of test cases. Pex learns the program behavior from the traces, and a constraint solver produces new test cases with different behavior. The result is a minimal test suite with maximal code coverage. For information about Pex, see http://research.microsoft.com/Pex/.
“They Are All Organizations”: The Cultural Roots of Blurring Between the Nonprofit, Business, and Government Sectors:

An important transformation is reshaping once-distinct social structures, such as charitable and religious groups, family firms, and government agencies, into more analogous units called organizati...
Determinants of Mode of Innovation in IT Firms

In the research, we investigate the role of diversification in the type of innovation strategy followed by incumbent firms in the IT industry. We setup a two-stage game theoretic model where, in the first stage, the incumbent decides whether to invest in R&D or acquire a pre-emptive stake in the entrant. In the second stage, the incumbent decides whether or not to acquire a successful entrant. Our main result is that a more diversified incumbent is more likely to invest in acquisition than engage in R&D. We also collect data on financial indicators for firms in the IT industry using the Compustat database to empirically test our main result. Our empirical model confirms our proposition that firms with a degree of diversification are more likely to innovate through acquisition than through R&D.
Noncoherent sequence demodulation for trellis coded M-DPSK

The maximum likelihood block decoder for trellis-coded noncoherent M-DPSK signals on the AWGN (additive white Gaussian noise) channel is outlined, first assuming that the decoder has no knowledge of the state of the encoder at the beginning of the block, and then assuming that it knows the state. Because these exhaustive decoders suffer from an exponential growth in complexity with blocklength, two simplified decoders are proposed that approach the performance of the exhaustive decoders with a much more manageable complexity. Through a union bound analysis and computer simulations, it is shown that it is possible to achieve large gains over uncoded systems with a very reasonable decoder complexity. Simulations of these noncoherent decoders show that in environments in which the random channel phase is slowly varying with respect to blocks on the order of 20-30 symbol periods, noncoherent sequence decoders like those presented are capable of gaining essentially all of the asymptotic coding gain of trellis codes used on a coherent link. >
Chameleon Fields: Awaiting Surprises for Tests of Gravity in Space

We present a novel scenario where a scalar field acquires a mass which depends on the local matter density: the field is massive on Earth, where the density is high, but is essentially free in the solar system, where the density is low. All existing tests of gravity are satisfied. We predict that near-future satellite experiments could measure an effective Newton's constant in space different from that on Earth, as well as violations of the equivalence principle stronger than currently allowed by laboratory experiments.
Hypothyroidism and cognition: preliminary evidence for a specific defect in memory.

The effect(s) of hypothyroidism on adult brain cognitive function are poorly understood. We performed a series of neuropsychological tests in 13 thyroid cancer patients while they continued to take their usual dose of levothyroxine (LT4) and again after discontinuing thyroid hormone. Three euthyroid subjects were also tested twice to assess the effect of repeated testing on performance. The tests assessed memory, mood, and attentional resources and controlled for the practice effects of repeated testing. The mean thyrotropin (TSH) on LT4 was 0.56 ± 0.76 mU/L and while hypothyroid was 69 ± 33 mU/L. While hypothyroid, the mean Beck depression score was significantly higher (15.31 ± 9.41 hypothyroid vs. 7.31 ± 4.82 on LT4) and the subjects rated themselves worse relative to functional memory, concentration, thinking, alertness, and motivation. Hypothyroidism was associated with a decrease in retrieval from memory (p = 0.0034), and this effect could not be attributed to depression or to practice effects. Thyr...
Self-Healing Technology for Gas Retention Structures and Space Suit Systems

The health of inflatable structures, including space suits and habitats, is dependent upon the integrity of the gas retention structural layer. Inflatable structures typically utilize a coated fabric gas retention layer, or bladder. Threats such as Micrometeoroid and Orbital Debris (MMOD) penetration and inadvertent impact with sharp objects can cause a breach of the gas retention layer. Leakage as a result of bladder breach will impact operations due to loss of consumables and time spent locating and repairing the defect. Crew safety can be at risk where high rate leakage could cause loss of mission or loss of life. ILC has recently researched self-healing technologies that prevent leakage by closing penetrations of the gas retention structure and that are viable and scalable for various future missions and applications ranging from the Constellation Space Suit System (CSSS) to deployable lunar habitats. Several candidates of passive self-healing systems were studied. System impacts such as the size of the hole that can be healed, material mass and thickness, and system inflation pressure were considered. Candidates were evaluated based on derived requirements for a flexible inflatable system. In 2001 a Shuttle Space Suit Assembly (SSA) lower arm component prototype with a viscoelastic gel self-healing bladder was fabricated and puncture tested in vacuum. The performance of this viscoelastic gel solution was used for comparison with new concepts that have recently been developed and tested.
Does C-methylcalix[4]resorcinarene always adopt the crown shape conformation? A resorcinarene/bipyridine/decamethylruthenocene supramolecular clathrate with a novel framework structure

Decamethylruthenocene acts as the template for the self-assembly of a 2∶4∶1 C-methylcalix[4]resorcinarene/bipyridine/decamethylruthenocene supramolecular structure with large hydrophobic cavities.
Elevated tissue sodium concentration in malignant breast lesions detected with non-invasive 23Na MRI.

The hypothesis that physiological and biochemical changes associated with proliferating malignant tumors may cause an increase in total tissue sodium concentration (TSC) was tested with non-invasive, quantitative sodium (23Na) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with benign and malignant breast tumors. 23Na and 1H MRI of the breast was performed on 22 women with suspicious breast lesions (≥1 cm) at 1.5 Tesla. A commercial proton (1H) phased array breast coil and custom solenoidal 23Na coil were used to acquire 1H and 23Na images during the same MRI examination. Quantitative 3-dimensional 23Na projection imaging was implemented with negligible signal loss from MRI relaxation, or from radio-frequency field inhomogeneity, in less than 15 min. Co-registered 1H and 23Na images permitted quantification of TSC in normal and suspicious tissues on the basis of 1H MRI contrast enhancement and anatomy, with histology confirmed by biopsy. Sodium concentrations were consistently elevated in (N = 19) histologically proven malignant breast lesions by an average of 63% compared to glandular tissue. The increase in sodium concentration in malignant tissue was highly significant compared to unaffected glandular tissue (P < 0.0001, paired t-test), adipose tissue, and TSC in three patients with benign lesions. Elevated TSC in breast lesions measured by non-invasive 23Na MRI appears to be a cellular-level indicator associated with malignancy. This method may have potential to improve the specificity of breast MRI with only a modest increase in scan time per patient.
Scheinstreifung (Pseudostriation) der Muskelfibrillen

A. G. Hodge und seine Mitarb. (Hodge, Huxley und Spiro 1954, Hodge 1955) haben wohl als erste darauf hingewiesen, das auser der so lange schon bekannten Querstreifung der Muskelfaser das elektronenmikroskopische Bild auch Streifungen zeigen kann, die Kunstprodukte sind und mit dem organischen Aufbau der Myofibrille direkt nichts zu tun haben: Diese Art von Streifung oder Banderung nannten sie Pseudostria-tion, was mit Scheinstreifung oder Scheinbanderung ubersetzt sein mag.
Editorial on PEGASUS-TIMI 54.

Despite treatments for secondary prevention, patients with prior myocardial infarction (MI) remain at high risk for recurrent thrombotic events.1 The addition of a P2Y12 receptor antagonist to aspirin for the first year after an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular (CV) death, MI, or stroke.2–4 Based on this evidence, the current guidelines recommend dual antiplatelet therapy for up to 1 year after an ACS.5–8 Several observations, however, had suggested that more prolonged therapy would be beneficial in patients with prior MI. Landmark analyses from the 1-year ACS trials of P2Y12 receptor antagonists showed a continued separation of the event curves over the entire year.4,9,10 Similarly, in landmark analyses from TRA 2°P-Thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) 50, more intensive antiplatelet therapy, achieved by adding the Protease-activated receptor (PAR)-1 inhibitor vorapaxar to standard antiplatelet treatment, significantly reduced the risk of ischaemic events over several years in patients with prior MI.11 Moreover, although overall the CHARISMA trial was neutral, in the subgroup of patients with prior MI, the addition of clopidogrel to aspirin significantly reduced the primary endpoint of CV death, MI, or stroke over a median of 27.6 months.12 Although these observations suggested that there was a benefit of more prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy in patients with MI, a definitive, prospective clinical trial was required to validate this hypothesis, which was the rationale for … [↵][1]*Corresponding author. Tel: +1 617 278 0318, Fax: +1 617 264 5130, Email: msabatine{at}partners.org [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
Penguin Life: A Case Study of One Tween’s Experiences inside Club Penguin

Although we are increasingly aware of what young people do online and perhaps even why they do it, we are less clear about how particular affordances of an online environment enables identity formation. Accordingly, this case study sought to explore how one tween’s experience in Club Penguin influenced the development of her social identity and community relationships. Reflecting on her experiences, we draw 3 tentative conclusions. First, because Club Penguin enables tweens to change typically static elements of their persona, the scope of generally accepted identifiers is broadened while the perceived boundaries between them is reduced. Second, the integration of virtual and physical spaces further complicates the social interactions that inform tween identity. Third, whereas many adult participants in virtual worlds use their participation as an opportunity to deconstruct the various aspects of their personality (Suler, 2002), tweens may use the virtual environment as an integration space.
Utilize of cluster analysis in evaluation of labour market

In development of labour market (unemployment and creation new working engagement) proceeds already longer expressive territorial differentiation. Paper deals with evaluation of labour market in particular Czech regions which can be characterize by means of whole number of indicators gained from Czech statistical office or Ministry of labour and social affairs. Data are by the help of one’s from range unit statistical methods – cluster analysis – hierarchical organize to the relatively same groups.
Differential diagnosis of groin pain in athletes

Groin pain is a common complaint in athletes, particularly among those participating in kicking and pivoting sports. Groin pain can arise from a wide variety of causes, or some combination thereof, ranging from musculoskeletal disorders to abdominal and genitourinary pathology. Many causes of groin pain in the athlete are found in the hip, both extra- and intra-articular. Muscle tendon disorders of the adductor and hip flexor groups are common extra-articular sources of groin pain in athletes. Sports hernia, osteitis pubis, and sacroiliac joint dysfunction are also part of the differential diagnosis, as are nerve injuries and stress fractures. Common intra-articular causes of groin pain in the athlete include labral tears and femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). Arriving at the correct diagnosis depends on keeping an open mind while collecting a careful history and conducting a thorough physical examination. Imaging can help and is often necessary. Additional diagnostics such as EMG and nerve conduction studies may be required.
Systematic study of the genusDelilia (Asteraceae, Heliantheae)

A taxonomic study of the genusDelilia is presented. Two species are recognized:D. biflora, a widespread weed of tropical and subtropical regions of the New World, extending from Mexico to northern Argentina and recently introduced in the Cape Verde Islands; andD. repens, endemic to the Galapagos islands. A key to the species, illustrations, distribution maps, and complete synonymy are presented.
Relative Functions of Gαs and its Extra-large Variant XLαs in the Endocrine System

Gαs is a ubiquitous signaling protein necessary for the actions of many neurotransmitters, hormones, and autocrine/paracrine factors. Loss-of-function mutations within the gene encoding Gαs, GNAS, are responsible for multiple human diseases, including Albright's Hereditary Osteodystrophy, progressive osseous heteroplasia, and pseudohypoparathyroidism. Gain-of-function mutations in the same gene are found in various endocrine and nonendocrine tumors and in patients with McCune-Albright Syndrome and fibrous dysplasia of bone. In addition to Gαs, GNAS gives rise to multiple additional coding and noncoding transcripts. Among those, XLαs is a paternally expressed product that is partially identical to Gαs. This article reviews the cellular actions of Gαs and XLαs, focusing on the significance of XLαs relative to Gαs in mammalian physiology and human disease.
Cold Case Homicide with Paternity as an Investigative Lead (People of State of New York v. Robert Symonds, Jr.)

J Forensic Res Crime Stud 2014 | Vol 1: 102 In 2009, a New York jury convicted a forty three year old Florida man of murder for the death of a Bronx man in February 1994, fifteen years after the incident [1]. Louis Moscatelli was found murdered at his home on 2553 Tendroeck Avenue where he was stabbed thirty nine times and had his throat slit during a fight and struggle. The victim has been heard shouting “no, Bob, don’t hit me” for approximately twenty minutes before the neighbourhood became silent again. The first scene of the crime was in the bathroom where the victim was found. In the dining room area, there was blood from an ashtray and three bloodlike stains from the floor were collected for further analysis. A trail of blood led out the door, droplets of blood were found on the concrete walk outside and at the second scene at 2559 Tendroek Avenue where bloodstains were located on the shower curtain and bath mat. The main question in this case became who did the blood belong to? Was someone bleeding when they exited the house or did the blood droplets come from a dripping knife? Since this was a cold case, the original testing did not include DNA but did include ABO blood typing and isoenzyme analysis, both protein-based tests used by serologists to classify the potential number of blood sources at a scene.
Direct Observation of Photoinduced Charge Separation in Ruthenium Complex/Ni(OH) 2 Nanoparticle Hybrid

Ni(OH)2 have emerged as important functional materials for solar fuel conversion because of their potential as cost-effective bifunctional catalysts for both hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions. However, their roles as photocatalysts in the photoinduced charge separation (CS) reactions remain unexplored. In this paper, we investigate the CS dynamics of a newly designed hybrid catalyst by integrating a Ru complex with Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles (NPs). Using time resolved X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XTA), we directly observed the formation of the reduced Ni metal site (~60 ps), unambiguously demonstrating CS process in the hybrid through ultrafast electron transfer from Ru complex to Ni(OH)2 NPs. Compared to the ultrafast CS process, the charge recombination in the hybrid is ultraslow (≫50 ns). These results not only suggest the possibility of developing Ni(OH)2 as solar fuel catalysts, but also represent the first time direct observation of efficient CS in a hybrid catalyst using XTA.
Analytical method of metallurgical temperature field based on heat dissipation of fatigue process

Based on the fatigue test of steel 300 M, with the aid of non-touching thermal infrared imager, the changes of the temperature during the process of fatigue test have been observed. On the basis of first law of thermodynamics and the law of heat exchange, the G.Meneghetti's model of metal heat dissipation per unit volume has been unified. The influence of microcosmic grain size of steel 300 M steel to temperature changes has been analyzed during the process of fatigue damage under the different heat treatment conditions from microcosmic respect. Meanwhile, from macroscopic perspective, the relationship between loading, number of cycles and the temperature changes of the specimen of a fatigue test has been studied. Furthermore, a model of equivalent heat source which describes the heat sources has been established by the approximation method of taking the grain size,loading grade and fatigue life as variables. With the method of interpolation, this model can quantitatively determine temperature field on the surface of metal and the temperature of equivalent heat source. Finally, a numerical simulation has been executed to test the effect of the heat source. The model's capability of predicting the changes of temperature field during fatigue process has been verified by the experiments.