cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Poliomyelitis: eradication in sight.

Eradication of poliomyelitis most likely will occur. In fact it is almost gone from the Western Hemisphere. Health workers in Sweden Finland and the Netherlands routinely vaccinate almost all children with the inactivated poliovaccines (IPV). Despite good vaccination coverage polio can still occur. For example in 1978-1979 polio outbreaks occurred among people of closely knit interconnected religious groups in the Netherlands. The virulent type 1 poliovirus was imported from the Middle East and spread to related religious groups in Canada and U.S. Further in 1984-1985 Finland experienced 10 polio cases. A wild type 3 variant was responsible. An outbreak in 1988 in Israel occurred among young adults who although received the oral polio vaccine (OPV) as infants did not receive booster doses. Thus they had an age related deficit in immunity against the wild virus. 6 countries in the Western Pacific Region were able to control polio by 1980 but wild type polioviruses were ubiquitous in 5 other countries in this region and infections were either asymptomatic or unrecognized. They could not control polio by 1980 and just recently able to exert some control. OPV induces serum antibodies intestinal resistance and rapid enduring immunity. Also it is easy to administer and inexpensive. Risk of paralytic polio with OPV is <1/1 million vaccinated infants. WHO advises that newborns should be immunized with OPV at the same time as BCG to protect them from polio and to reduce the transmission of wild polioviruses during infancy and childhood. Further many countries have incorporated OPV into routine immunization schedules but can be difficult in developing countries with limited cold chain capabilities. While some developing countries host periodic mass OPV immunization campaigns. At proper doses IPV imparts humoral immunity and can be incorporated into other injectable pediatric vaccines (e.g. DPT). Some countries use both IPV and OPV.
Neurofilament Light Predicts Decline in Attention but Not Episodic Memory in Preclinical Alzheimer's Disease.

Background Cerebrospinal fluid tau and neurofilament light (NfL) are two biomarkers of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. Previous reports have shown that the influence of tau on cognitive decline depends on levels of amyloid burden whereas NfL predicts decline independently of amyloid. Most studies use a global cognitive composite as the primary outcome, and it is unknown if critical cognitive domain scores are similarly sensitive to rates of decline due to neurodegeneration. Objective To examine the unique contribution of amyloid, tau, and NfL to rates of cognitive decline in multiple cognitive composites in a cognitively healthy, middle-aged to older adult cohort. Methods A total of 255 participants (55% female; mean age = 66.2 years, range = 42.5-86.7 years) completed CSF studies and serial cognitive assessments to measure global cognition, episodic memory, and attentional control. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine rates of change on each composite score as a function of baseline biomarker levels. Results Total tau predicted decline in attention regardless of amyloid status, but the relationship to global cognition and episodic memory was dependent on amyloid, replicating prior literature. NfL predicted decline in attention and global cognition, but not memory, and this effect was independent of amyloid status. Conclusions These findings suggest that NfL can be used to monitor cognitive decline in aging and Alzheimer's disease and that an attentional control composite may be a better outcome for tracking general neurodegenerative effects on cognition.
Design and Analysis of Event-Triggered Neuro-Adaptive Controller (ETNAC) for Uncertain Systems

Abstract In this paper, six new event-triggered neuro-adaptive control (ETNAC) schemes are presented for uncertain linear systems. Novelty of this paper lies in (i) the construction of the proposed ETNAC schemes, (ii) the design of event-triggering conditions, and (iii) the design of an observer called the modified state observer (MSO). In the proposed schemes, the MSO, the controller, and the event-triggering mechanisms are constructed and organized in a way such that they provide the control system designer with flexibility to choose between the one-way or two-way data exchange and also between the dynamic or static triggering conditions. The event-triggering conditions are designed on the basis of real performance parameters, such as the estimation/tracking errors that render control updates more on actual system events instead of the often-used extended time sampling. Another unique feature of ETNAC is its online uncertainty approximation capability even during inter-event times, which makes the controller robust and efficient. This part is developed with the help of an artificial neural network (ANN) and a polynomial regression-based MSO. The MSO formulations have two tunable gains, which allow fast uncertainty estimation without inducing high frequency oscillations, even while the system is in a transient state. Lyapunov analysis is used to show the stability of the system as well as to develop the event-triggering conditions. Effectiveness of the proposed controllers is demonstrated using benchmark numerical examples.
Modular synthesis of symmetric proazaphosphatranes bearing heteroatom groups

Abstract Proazaphosphatranes are strong, non-ionic bases that have demonstrated utility in multiple types of catalytic processes for organic synthesis. Few proazaphosphatranes are available, and all bear alkyl substituents. To expand the scope of proazaphosphatranes, we report the two-step synthesis of a series of proazaphosphatranes that incorporate heteroatom groups. Characterization of these compounds using 1H, 13C{1H} and 31P{1H} NMR spectroscopy and high resolution mass spectrometry is reported. The solid state structure of tris(3-pyridylmethyl)proazaphosphatrane is also presented.
Adaptation and Preliminary Evaluation of a Lung Cancer Screening Decision Tool for Older Chinese American Populations.

Abstract Background Lung cancer is a significant health issue among Chinese Americans. The study purpose was to translate and culturally adapt the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's (AHRQ) lung cancer screening decision tool to the needs of older Chinese American smokers. Methods This study used a mixed methods approach. In the first phase, AHRQ lung cancer screening decision aid was translated from English to Chinese. The second phase consisted of a paper and pencil survey (N = 50) designed to measure knowledge and attitudes regarding lung screening. Finally, focus groups (N = 5, 27 participants) were conducted to obtain input on the translated and culturally adapted AHRQ lung cancer screening DA. Results The mean age of participants was 70.4 years (SD = 5.4) and the majority were male (n = 42; 84%). Seventy-four percent of the sample reported being a former smoker and 26% a current smoker. Perceived risk for lung cancer was low (26%) and the majority of participants (70%) were unaware of lung cancer screening. Perceived benefits (e.g., early cancer detection) and barriers of LDCT screening (e.g., costs) were reported by participants. The qualitative findings were largely consistent with the quantitative results. Following the revisions to the translated AHRQ DA, participants reported satisfaction with the readability and information provided. Conclusions Lung cancer screening represents an evidence-based approach for reducing lung cancer morbidity and mortality among chronic high frequency smokers. Culturally targeting evidence-based lung cancer screening decision-aids to the language, cultural and health literacy needs of high risk populations may increase uptake of lung cancer early detection screening.
Proliferative Retinopathy in a 13-Year-Old with Adams-Oliver Syndrome.

PURPOSE Adams-Oliver syndrome is a rare, inherited disorder of embryologic development that affects multiple systems. Ocular manifestations have been poorly characterized due to the low prevalence and high mortality of the disease when it is associated with internal organ and/or ophthalmic manifestations. We present a case of Adams-Oliver syndrome in a 13-year-old patient whose multimodal retinal imaging findings helped direct management. METHODS Case report reviewing medical records and imaging. PATIENTS Single patient. RESULTS Visual acuity upon presentation was 20/40 in each eye. Ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography revealed peripheral non-perfusion with terminal vascular bulbs, as well as leakage from a temporal fibrovascular complex in the left eye. Fundus autofluorescence imaging showed hyperautofluorescence associated with optic disc drusen and the fibrovascular complex. Treatment with targeted laser photocoagulation was associated with regression of the neovascularization. CONCLUSIONS Retinal manifestations of Adams-Oliver syndrome as observed with ultra-widefield fundus imaging may resemble those of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity. Treatment of avascular retina with panretinal photocoagulation can be considered.
Prevalence of discordant QTc values among cancer patients by the Bazett, Fridericia, and Framingham formulae: Evidence for a standardized approach.

6575Background: Many chemotherapies have the potential to prolong the QT interval, requiring monitoring of the corrected QT (QTc) to prevent life-threatening arrhythmias. Most clinical guidelines r...
Claims-Based Score for the Prediction of Bleeding in a Contemporary Cohort of Patients Receiving Oral Anticoagulation for Venous Thromboembolism.

Background Current scores for bleeding risk assessment in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) undergoing oral anticoagulation have limited predictive capacity. We developed and internally va...
The Middle East Conflict: Origins, Evolution, and Attempts to Resolve

When future Israeli Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion (born David Grun, he adopted the Hebrew name Ben-Gurion, after the Jewish leading figure Joseph ben Gurion of the Great Jewish Revolt against the Romans) arrived in Palestine in 1906, he ignored the fact that the land was populated by a non-Jewish majority. While the Land of Israel has powerful religious, historical, social, and cultural importance for Jews—religious and non-religious alike—the majority population in 1906 was Moslem. That is a fact. However, that fact does not diminish the 5000-year Biblical connection between the Land of Israel and the Jewish people. That, too, is a fact. These are not competing truths for both are true; these truths—while largely not in dispute—do not prevent an ongoing battle of the narrative. In many ways, that battle is at the root of the conflict; each side claims its historical superiority, each side stakes a claim that it “was here first,” and each side believes its claims to be the mantel of historical ascendency.
Robust analysis of variance: a simulation study

Traditional analysis-of-variance (ANOVA) is based on ‘normality’ and ‘homogeneity’ assumptions. If either or both of these assumptions are violated, then the one-way ANOVA may not be as powerful as robust analysis-of-variance (RANOVA) alternatives. We report the results of a simulation study of alternatives to ANOVA: Welch (W*), the first and second methods of James (J1*, 3J11*), Brown- Forsythe (BF*), a Box (B*) procedure, and the Kruskal-Wallis (KW*) procedure. Random samples from 14 distributions—uniform (0, 1), normal (0, 1), contaminated normal, SLATE, SLACU, SLASH, double exponential, Cauchy, half-normal, chi-squared (two degrees of freedom), chi-squared (four degrees of freedom) log normal, gamma (1, 2) and beta (2, 5)—were generated using a composite linear congruential generator. Corresponding test satis tics were computed and the empirical size for each test is given for three nominal a values (0.10, 0.05, 0.01). For k, we choose 3, 4 and 6. The sample sizes and combinations of sample sizes were...
Corrections to bino annihilation II: one-loop contribution to B̃B̃ → Z

Abstract We calculate the one-loop contribution to the bino annihilation rate due to the process B B → Z ∗ , which vanishes at tree level.
Estradiol attenuates alpha 2-adrenoceptor-mediated inhibition of hypothalamic norepinephrine release

These studies tested the hypothesis that estradiol facilitates norepinephrine (NE) neurotransmission by modulating alpha 2- adrenoceptor-mediated inhibition of NE release. KCl-induced overflow of 3H from superfused slices preloaded with 3H-NE was Ca2+ dependent. Hypothalamic slices from estradiol-treated rats exposed to a single KCl pulse (S1) had modestly (20%) but significantly elevated NE release when compared to slices from ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Blockade of alpha 2-adrenoceptors by pretreatment with the imidazoline antagonists idazoxan (IDA) and RX821002 (RX) markedly facilitated NE release during S1 in hypothalamic slices from OVX rats; this facilitation was attenuated or absent in slices from estradiol-treated rats. In additional studies slices were stimulated twice, 24 min apart (S1 and S2), for 3 min with 20 mM KCl. In the absence of drug, the amount of 3H- NE released during S2 was always less than the amount released during S1 (i.e., S2:S1 approximately 0.6), regardless of whether slices were from OVX or estradiol-treated females. When 10 microM IDA was applied after S1 and 15 min prior to S2, the S2: S1 ratio increased to 1.8 +/- 0.1 in hypothalamic slices from OVX animals. In contrast, the S2:S1 ratio rose only to 1.1 +/- 0.2 in slices from estradiol-treated animals. RX applied before S2 markedly increased the S2:S1 ratio in both hypothalamic and preoptic area slices from OVX rats but failed to increase the S2:S1 ratio in slices from estradiol-treated rats. Interestingly, the modest effects of alkaloid alpha 2-antagonists such as yohimbine and rauwolscine on NE release in hypothalamic and preoptic area slices were not modified by estradiol.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Remote Access: A Residental Power Monitor and Control System

Under many circumstances, you may want to monitor and control your home lighting system and appliances while you are away for work, travel, or vacation. Recently, two major technology developments have made this application possible. One catalyst is the wide adoption of high-bandwidth wireless networks in universities, hospitals, hotels, and other working environments. A second catalyst is the emergence of cloud services. As a result, many remote control applications are becoming popular because untethered computing increases the convenience of our daily lives. The following scenario demonstrates how remote control applications can be used.
A 3-year longitudinal study of risk for bipolar spectrum psychopathology.

Current clinical and epidemiological research provides support for a continuum of bipolar psychopathology: a bipolar spectrum that ranges from subthreshold characteristics to clinical disorders. The present research examined risk for bipolar spectrum psychopathology at a 3-year follow-up assessment in a nonclinically ascertained sample of 112 young adults identified by the Hypomanic Personality Scale (HPS). Participants completed diagnostic interviews assessing bipolar psychopathology, borderline personality traits, substance use disorders, impulsivity, and psychosocial functioning. At the original assessment, 18 of the 112 participants met criteria for a bipolar spectrum disorder. At the follow-up, an additional 13 had developed bipolar spectrum disorders. A total of 58% of participants scoring in the upper quartile of the HPS qualified for bipolar spectrum disorders at the follow-up, including 27% with DSM–IV–TR disorders. The HPS predicted new cases and total number of cases of bipolar spectrum disorders, as well as total number of DSM–IV–TR bipolar disorders. The HPS also predicted hyperthymic temperament or history of hypomania, grandiose traits, impulsivity, substance use disorders, psychosocial impairment, and borderline traits. The majority of these effects were significant after removing participants with DSM–IV–TR bipolar disorders from the analyses, suggesting that the results were not driven by a subset of participants with clinical disorders. Overall, these results offer further support for the bipolar spectrum construct and the predictive validity of the HPS as a measure of bipolar spectrum psychopathology.
Function and postnatal changes of dural afferent fibers expressing TRPM8 channels.

Background Genome-wide association studies have identified TRPM8 (transient receptor potential melastatin 8) as one of the susceptibility genes for common migraine. Here, we investigated the postnatal changes of TRPM8-expressing dural afferent fibers as well as the function of dural TRPM8 channels in mice.
A finite automata approach to modeling the cross product of interconnection networks

This paper describes a modeling technique, finite state automata (FA) model, for the cross product of interconnection networks. The primary purpose of the proposed modeling technique is to provide a mechanism for developing efficient routing and novel embedding algorithms, which we refer to as node-independent algorithms, for product networks. In contrast to the current embedding algorithms which are node dependent (their output is a set of adjacent node labels which forms the desired topology), the embedding algorithms developed in this paper are rule-based. That is, they generate a set of rules (input sequences to the FA model of the network) which can be used by any node for mapping a desired topology into the network. Furthermore, a new interconnection topology, called Ring Connected Cycles (RCC), is introduced. The main objective of introducing RCC networks is to illustrate the use of the FA model to develop node-independent embedding as well as routing algorithms. In addition, to demonstrate the generality of the proposed technique, FA models of several popular interconnection networks (such as n-cubes and n-star graphs) are presented. The RCC networks are proposed in this paper as a possible communication network for parallel multicomputers or as an alternative to the ring topology for local area networks. An RCC network can execute grid, mesh and ring algorithms as efficiently as the grid, mesh, and ring networks. It is shown in Section 6 that this significant amount of computational versatility offered by RCC networks comes at no additional VLSI area cost over the same size ring, grid, or mesh networks.
An age-dependent feedback control model of calcium dynamics in yeast cells

The functional decline of selected proteins or organelles leads to aging at the intracellular level. Identification of these proteins or organelles is usually challenging to traditional single-factor approaches since these factors are inter-connected via feedback or feedforward controls. Establishing a feedback control model to simulate the interactions of multiple factors is an insightful approach to guide the search for proteins involved in aging. However, there are only a few mathematical models describing the age-dependent accumulation of DNA mutations, which are directly or indirectly induced by deterioration of the intracellular environment including alteration of calcium homeostasis, a contributor of aging. Thus, based on Cui and Kaandorp’s model, we develop an age-dependent mathematical model for the calcium homeostasis in budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Our model contains cell cycle-dependent aging factors and can qualitatively reproduce calcium shocks and calcium accumulations in cells observed in experiments. Using this model, we predict calcium oscillations in wild type, pmc1Δ, and pmr1Δ cells. This prediction suggests that Pmr1p plays a major role in regulating cytosolic calcium. Combining the model with our experimental lifespan data, we predict an upper-limit of cytosolic calcium tolerance for cell survival. This prediction indicates that, for aged cells (>35 generations), no pmr1 Δ can tolerate the cytosolic calcium concentration of 0.1 μM while a very small fraction (1%) of aged wild type cells (>50 generations) can tolerate a high cytosolic calcium concentration of 0.5 μM.
Preventing Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections in the Intensive Care Unit

Urinary tract infection remains one of the most common healthcare-associated infections in the intensive care unit and predominantly occurs in patients with indwelling urinary catheters. Duration of catheterization is the most important risk factor for developing catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI). General strategies for preventing CAUTI include measures such as adherence to hand hygiene. Targeted strategies for preventing CAUTI include limiting the use and duration of urinary catheters, using aseptic technique for catheter insertion, and adhering to proper catheter care. Anti-infective catheters may be considered in some settings. Successful implementation of these measures has decreased urinary catheter use and CAUTI.
Daytime sleepiness: associations with alcohol use and sleep duration in americans.

The aim of the current analysis was to investigate the relationship of daytime sleepiness with alcohol consumption and sleep duration using a population sample of adult Americans. Data was analyzed from adult respondents of the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2008 (N = 2919) using self-reported variables for sleepiness, sleep duration, and alcohol consumption (quantity and frequency of alcohol use). A heavy drinking episode was defined as the consumption of ≥5 standard alcoholic beverages in a day. Logistic regression models adjusted for sociodemographic variables and insomnia covariates were used to evaluate the relationship between daytime sleepiness and an interaction of alcohol consumption variables with sleep duration. The results showed that daytime sleepiness was reported by 15.07% of the subjects. In univariate analyses adjusted for covariates, an increased probability of daytime sleepiness was predicted by decreased log drinks per day [OR = 0.74 (95% CI, 0.58–0.95)], a decreased log drinking frequency [0.90 (95% CI, 0.83–0.98)], and lower sleep duration [OR = 0.75 (95% CI, 0.67–0.84)]. An interaction between decreased sleep duration and an increased log heavy drinking frequency predicted increased daytime sleepiness (P = 0.004). Thus, the effect of sleep duration should be considered when evaluating the relationship between daytime sleepiness and heavy drinking.
Ischemic ECG changes predict coronary artery disease in type 1 diabetes

Among nondiabetic patients, the presence of ST-T abnormalities on rest electrocardiogram (ECG) is an independent predictor of coronary artery disease and cardiovascular mortality [1,2]. Ischemic ECG changes predict all-cause mortality in type 1 diabetes [3]. However, the prognostic significance of ischemic ECG changes for clinical coronary artery disease in type 1 diabetes has not been studied. The Pittsburgh Epidemiology of Diabetes Complications Study included 658 persons with type 1 diabetes who were < 18 years old when diagnosed and a mean age of 28 years when they entered the study. Methods have been previously described [3,4]. Subjects’ informed consent and human research committee approval were obtained. Coronary artery disease was defined as fatal coronary heart disease, nonfatal myocardial infarction, silent Q-wave myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization or angiographic stenosis z 50%, or angina diagnosed by the study physician. Ischemic ECG was defined asMinnesota Code 1.3, 4.1–4.3, 5.1–5.2, or 7.1. In 10 years follow-up, 106 subjects developed coronary artery disease. The univariate coronary artery disease predictors included age, diabetes duration, fibrinogen, white blood cell count, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, serum albumin, serum creatinine, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, albumin excretion rate, corrected QT interval on ECG, waist to hip ratio, ever having smoked, hypertension, the Beck Depressive Inventory, retinopathy, sympathetic and autonomic neuropathy, overt nephropathy, and ECG ischemia. Due to the high correlation between diabetes duration and age, the age variable was not used in multivariate
Illustrating regression diagnostics with an air pollution and mortality model

Statistical techniques have been developed recently which facilitate the systematic exploration of the sensitivity of regression models to individual observations in the data base. In this article, the utility of these techniques is demonstrated with a multiple linear regression model (published by L. Lave and E. Seskin) relating air pollution, specifically sulfates and particulates, to human mortality based on data from 117 Standard Metropolitan Statistical Areas (SMSAs). These techniques identify SMSAs which are widely separated from the remainder with repect to the independent (explanatory) variables as well as those which strongly affect the estimated regression coefficients and/or the predicted mortality rates. The problem of collinear explanatory variables is investigated and quantified using ridge regression and variable deletion techniques. It is shown that the estimated mortality benefits from air pollution reduction can be altered by as much as 23% by removing one SMSA from the data base. Overall estimates of the elasticity of air pollution on human mortality are higher using least squares methods than with robust, bounded-influence, or ridge methods.
Theory of an iterative, two mode transmission network

A general investigation of the nature of an iterative, LC lattice structure, shown to function as a transmission channel capable of carrying two distinct wave modes, is carried out. Both a uniform system and an inhomogeneous case where the capacitor values vary slowly down the lattice structure are considered. Emphasis is placed on a formal and numerical investigation of basic wave properties and their significance with regard to signal transmission, crosstalk suppression, plus the particularly interesting phenomenon of one mode converting to the other which is found to occur in the inhomogeneous case. Potential uses of the lattice such as simulated wave studies, among others, are suggested. Relations for termination impedances are derived, and special cases involving different combinations of excitation and termination conditions are considered.
Particulate protein measurement in oceanographic samples by dye binding

Abstract A modified version of the Coomassie Brilliant Blue dye binding protein assay has been developed for oceanographic samples and intercalibrated with the widely used Lowry assay. Particulate protein measurements were made at seven stations in the Gulf of Maine using the method. Measurements were made on cell-free homogenates. Protein concentration ranged from 2 to 212 μg l−1 (0.02–0.68 μg at N l−1) and averaged 58 μg l−1. ETS activity, chlorophyll and particulate nitrogen were significantly correlated with protein concentrations.
New models for Paleoproterozoic orogenesis in the Cheyenne belt region: Evidence from the geology and U-Pb geochronology of the Big Creek Gneiss, southeastern Wyoming

The disputed age of the deep crust of the Colorado Province is central to hypotheses for Paleoproterozoic crustal growth in the region. We studied the high-grade Big Creek Gneiss, southeastern Wyoming, as a potential exposure of pre-1780 Ma basement rocks. New geologic mapping and U-Pb geochronological data indicate that the Big Creek Gneiss exposes a deeper, but coeval, level of the Green Mountain arc relative to the predominantly supracrustal section to the west. The Big Creek Gneiss is composed of: supracrustal rocks; a ca. 1780 Ma Green Mountain arc–correlative, bimodal intrusive suite; a ca. 1763 Ma extensional(?) bimodal intrusive suite; and widespread ca. 1630 Ma pegmatitic leucogranite. The mafic member of the younger bimodal suite is documented here for the first time. U-Pb zircon ages from migmatite leucosomes indicate penetrative deformation of the Big Creek Gneiss at ca. 1750 Ma. We find that the postarc intrusive suite is mantle-involved, implying a second period of crustal growth. Shortening postdates arc magmatism by ∼20 m.y., implying that termination of arc magmatism and accretion were separate events. Finally, criteria previously used to constrain the polarity of subduction for the Green Mountain arc are not reliable. We propose two competing models: (1) southward-dipping Green Mountain arc subduction (present coordinates), with slab breakoff–related magmatism following arc accretion; or (2) northward-dipping subduction, with extensional postarc magmatism. In both models, high-temperature deformation coincides with accretion along the Cheyenne belt, and extensional magmatism is an important component of crustal growth. We prefer the northward-dipping subduction model because it can be better integrated with regional tectonic events and published isotopic compositions of the igneous rocks.
On the asymptotic distributions of weighted uniform multivariate empirical processes

We obtain limit theorems for sup |αn(t,s)|(tλsμG(t)L(s)), where αn is the bivariate uniform empirical process, −∞ < λ < 12, 12 < μ < 1, and G, L are slowly varying functions at zero.
Dynamic strain-field hysteresis model for ferromagnetic shape memory Ni-Mn-Ga

Due to magnetic field diffusion and structural dynamics, the relationship between magnetic field and strain in Ni-Mn-Ga changes significantly as the frequency of applied field is increased. In order to describe this behavior, which is critical for actuator applications, we present a strain model for Ni-Mn-Ga driven with dynamic magnetic fields. The magnitude and phase of the magnetic field inside the sample are modeled as a 1-D magnetic diffusion problem, from where an averaged or effective field is calculated. A continuum thermodynamics constitutive model is used to quantify the hysteretic response of the martensite volume fraction due to this effective magnetic field. The evolution of volume fractions with effective field is proposed to behave as a zero order system. To quantify the dynamic strain output, the actuator is represented as a lumped-parameter 1-DOF resonator with force input dictated by the twin-variant volume fraction. This results in a second order, linear ODE whose periodic force input is expressed as a summation of Fourier series terms. The total dynamic strain output is obtained by superposition of strain solutions due to each harmonic force input. The model accurately describes experimental measurements at frequencies of up to 250 Hz.
Don't take me half the way: On Berkeley on mathematical reasoning

BERKELEY has a portmanteau philosophy of mathematics-a realist philosophy of geometry but a formalist philosophy of arithmetic and algebra. Geometry has a genuine subject matter, on his view, but arithmetic and algebra can be studied only for the sake of guiding action (cf. Pycior 1987, pp. 277 ff.). His account includes a compartmentalized view of mathematical reasoning, which, I shall argue, fails on the realist side. But the problems Berkeley tried to solve with his philosophy of geometry can be handled using his formalist strategy. This yields a neo-Berkeleian characterization of geometry that is pleasing on its own. And it does not turn the empiricist project in the direction of logical positivism, as might be expected, but in the direction of Wittgenstein.
Social Order and Plea Bargaining in the Courtroom

The bureaucratic characteristics of the court process are examined as achievement-of face-to-face interactions in a courtroom where plea bargaining and other official and unofficial activities occur. Bargaining sessions are insulated from intrusion by standard practices which protect focused interactions. Defendants are “processed” not in any automatic way, but by carefully orchestrated lines of interaction, which render those defendants indistinguishable to judges and other observers. These features are due not to “overcrowding,” but to the way conduct is organized in the court. Defendants' contributions to the courtroom's social order are related to character assessment, a central activity in plea bargaining.
Mesenchymal stem cells: mechanisms of potential therapeutic benefit in ARDS and sepsis

Multipotent mesenchymal stem (stromal) cells (MSCs) have shown promising therapeutic effects in preclinical models of both acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and sepsis. Although initial research focused on the ability of MSCs to engraft at sites of tissue injury, increasing evidence suggests that MSCs have their therapeutic effects through mechanisms unrelated to long-term incorporation into host tissue. One of the most compelling of these pathways is the ability of MSCs to interact with injured tissue through the release of soluble bioactive factors. This Review provides an overview of the general properties of MSCs, and then outlines ways in which the paracrine effects of MSCs might reduce lung injury and enhance lung repair in ARDS and sepsis. Finally, we summarise ongoing challenges in MSC research and identify areas in which the discipline might progress in the coming years.
Relativistic Effects in the Photoionization of High- Z Elements: Splittings and Shifts of Minima

Zeros in dipole matrix elements for high-$Z$ elements are found to occur at significantly higher energies in our relativistic calculations than in nonrelativistic results. The energy separations of the zeros of the relativistic matrix elements are substantially magnified (a factor of \ensuremath{\gtrsim} 10) compared to the initial bound-state spin-orbit splitting.
Effect of grain size on the near threshold fatigue crack propagation of a nickel base precipitation hardened superalloy

Abstract 1. 1. By coarsening the grain size from 22 to 91 μm in Alloy 718, it was found that: i. near threshold crack growth rates were reduced and ii. ΔKth values increased. 2. 2. Roughness-induced crack closure may be used to explain the influence of grain size. The coarse grained material resulted in much rougher fracture surfaces at near threshold growth rates. 3. 3. At room temperature, a fracture morphology transition occurred which coincided with the concave upward ergion in the crack growth curves above ΔKth. Below the transition, the maximum plastic zone size was less than the grain diameter and the crack propagated by crystallographic cracking. Above the transition in which the maximum plastic zone size was greater than the grain diameter, crack extension occurred through the formation the formation of fatigue striations. This transition was shifted to higher ΔK values by coarsening the grain size.
Particle combustion rates for mechanically alloyed Al–Ti and aluminum powders burning in air

Abstract Mechanically alloyed aluminum-rich powders of Al–Ti (10, 15, 20, and 25 atom% of Ti) were produced and their combustion was compared to that of aluminum and titanium powders of comparable sizes. A laminar lifted-flame aerosol burner developed recently was used in this research. The aerosols were produced and burned in air. Measured flame speeds were higher for the aerosols of Al–Ti mechanical alloys than for the aerosols of pure Al or Ti. The particle combustion rates were evaluated based on the comparison of the measured and calculated profiles of the flame radiation. To calculate radiation profiles a simple model of particle combustion was used, in which both the radiation intensity and particle burn time were expressed as power functions of the initial particle size. For all the powders, the burning particle radiation intensity was observed to be best described by a function proportional to the cube of the initial particle size. For aluminum aerosol, the best match between the experimental and calculated flame radiation profiles was observed for the linear particle combustion law, when the particle combustion time, t, was expressed as a function of the initial particle size, d, as t [ s ] = 310 d [ m ] . To match the experimental and calculated flame radiation profiles for the Al–Ti mechanical alloys, the combustion times of individual particles could be described by either d 1 or d 2 expressions. The burning time of mechanically alloyed particles increased with the increase of titanium concentration. The overall combustion times for aluminum particles are significantly longer than those for mechanically alloyed particles of Al–Ti of the same size.
An analysis of countercurrent exchange with emphasis on renal function.

An analysis of countercurrent exchange in a U-tube is presented for a single-solute, constant-volume flow rate system with spatially varying source fluxes and permeabilities. Analytical solutions are given for the steady-state equations and numerical solutions for the unsteady-state equations. The solutions indicate that an external source of solute delivered to the stream flowing away from the U-tube bend can be distributed by the exchanger so that the concentration in both limbs increases toward the bend. In particular, there exist source fluxes whose magnitude decreases monotonically toward the bend for which the maximum solute concentration occurs at the bend. The point at which a concentration maximum occurs is governed principally by the solute permeability of the barrier separating the two limbs and by the volume flow rate through the exchanger. The system dynamics depend strongly on the relative cross-sectional areas of the two limbs or, equivalently, on the flow velocities within them. The model is used as a basis for discussion of various functional aspects of the renal vasa recta system.
Schema learning without a prototype

In a reproduction task, Ss benefitted more from training with patterns having a common schema than with random patterns, even though Ss saw no prototype. This schema learning occurred with knowledge of results.
Improvement of motor development and postural control following intervention in children with sensorineural hearing loss and vestibular impairment.

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of exercise intervention on the progressive motor development delay and postural control impairments in children with sensorineural hearing loss and concurrent vestibular impairment. Methods: Twenty-one children with sensorineural hearing loss and vestibular impairment were randomly assigned to two groups (exercise and placebo) matched for age and gross motor development level. Exercise intervention consisted of compensatory training, emphasizing enhancement of visual and somatosensory function, and balance training. Placebo intervention focused on language development activities. Each intervention was administered three times weekly for 12 weeks. Motor development and posturography testing was completed pre- and post-intervention. To examine the mechanisms of change, somatosensory, visual and vestibular functional effectiveness ratios were calculated from posturography stability scores. Children in the placebo group later participated in exercise intervention, and a second post-test completed. Data were analyzed by group, as well as merged once all had received exercise intervention. Results: Post-intervention, motor development scores significantly improved in the exercise, not the placebo group (P=0.004). Although not significant, improvement in posturography scores were evident in the exercise group. Once the post-exercise data from both groups were merged (n=21), improvements in these scores were significant (≤0.02). The difference from the normative sample was eliminated. Conclusions: Exercise intervention focused on the enhancement of sensory integrative postural control abilities is effective for the arrest of the progressive motor development delay in children with sensorineural hearing loss and vestibular impairment.
A Low-Dissipation Optimization-Based Gradient Reconstruction (OGRE) Scheme for Finite Volume Simulations

Finite volume methods employing second-order gradient reconstruction schemes are often utilized to computationally solve the governing equations of transport. These reconstruction schemes, while not as dissipative as first-order schemes, frequently produce either dispersive or oscillatory solutions, especially in regions of discontinuities, and/or unsatisfactory levels of dissipation in smooth regions of the variable field. A novel gradient reconstruction scheme is presented in this work which shows significant improvement over traditional second-order schemes. This Optimization-based Gradient REconstruction (OGRE) scheme works to minimize an objective function based on the mismatch between local reconstructions at midpoints between cell stencil neighbors, i.e. the degree to which the projected values of a dependent variable and its gradients in a given cell differ from each of these values in neighbor cells. An adjustable weighting parameter is included in the definition of the objective function that allows the scheme to be tuned towards greater accuracy or greater stability. This scheme is implemented using the User Defined Function capability available in the commercially available CFD solver, Ansys FLUENT. Various test cases are presented that demonstrate the ability of the new method to calculate superior predictions of both a scalar transported variable and its gradients. These cases include calculation of a discontinuous variable field, several sinusoidal variable fields and a non-uniform velocity field. Results for each case are determined on both structured and unstructured meshes, and the scheme is compared with existing standard first- and second-order upwind discretization methods.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
The opposite of green is purple

The conventional understanding of opponent colors has red and green as one axis and yellow and blue on a second axis. This perceptual opponency is a result of the trichromatic nature of human color vision in combination with subsequent processing in the visual system. This red-green and yellow-blue opponency is fundamental to many different color spaces. CIELAB, CIELUV, CIECAM02, IPT, YCC and more all incorporate this concept of chromatic opponency. In most cases the yellow and blue opponent axes are reasonable. However for the red-green axis it is more like a purplegreen axis due to a consistent, significant bending of the red-green axis. Is dark purple the opposite of green? This paper summarizes the result of analyzing a wide range of color spaces based on their actual opponency. The consistent limitation of a shared matrix formulation for opponency is discussed and finally a simple, invertible color space is considered. The angular differences between quadrants and computed antonyms is shown to be significantly more consistent using this hypothetical alternative color space.
MIGRAINE, TYRAMINE AND BLOOD SEROTONIN

SYNOPSIS Whole blood serotonin levels and headache symptoms were studied in 26 migrainous patients during a three day period with administration of tyramine the first day, reserpine the second day. No significant changes in serotonin occurred after tyramine; headache severity was not associated with change in blood serotonin, which dropped to low levels after a small dose of reserpine without precipitating migraine in most patients.
Influence of amacrine cells on receptive field organization of ganglion cells of the generalized vertebrate cone retina: electronic simulation.

Two classes of amacrine cells are simulated, small-field and large-field. Small-field amacrine cells are formed by input from a single bipolar cell, while large-field amacrine cell is formed by inputs from same 7 bipolar cells that form the ganglion cell. Only tonic amacrine cells are studied with both chromatic and luminosity types as well as double-and single-opponent receptive fields. Amacrine cells are used in both feedforward to ganglion cells and feedback to bipolar and horizontal cells. Feedback to bipolar cells or feedfoward to ganglion cells affected steady state levels in a predictable fashion. Negative feedback to bipolar cells and positive feedfoward to ganglion cells does not introduce transients to ganglion cells while negative feedback to horizontal cells and negative feedfoward does. Feedback to horizontal cells produces complex effects on bipolar, amacrine and ganglion cells dependent on such factors as center-surround field balance and negative feedback from luminosity type of horizontal cell to cones.
The modeling and simulation of field emission array tips using the gun code algorithm in MICHELLE

We report on the incorporation of a model of field emitters (FE) in the MICHELLE Particle-In-Cell (PIC) beam optics code. The FE model is based on a Point Charge Model (PCM) and allows for rapid and analytical representations of tip current, variation, and emission statistics. Its usage enables determining the impact of emission variation on current characteristics and emittance. Rather than cold field emission characterized by the Fowler Nordheim (FN) equation, a General Thermal-Field (GTF) emission model treats warm and hot field emission sources. We discuss convergence characteristics and use of such models in the steady-state gun code algorithm. Specifically, we look at the rate of convergence, ramifications of meshing techniques including unstructured and structured conformal meshes and different field emission tip geometries.
Suppression of macroscopic quantum tunneling in a large Josephson junction coupled to a resonator

We employ a functional integral technique to calculate the macroscopic quantum tunneling rate at zero temperature of a current-biased Josephson junction weakly coupled to a resonator. We allow for the effects of environmental dissipation on both the junction and the resonator via baths of harmonic oscillators, and we consider both cases of weak and strong junction damping. The resonator can be, in principle, any quantum harmonic oscillator that couples to the junction bilinearly in either the coordinate or the velocity. The Josephson phase difference $\ensuremath{\phi}$ is the tunneling variable in this system, and the low-lying bound states in the junction's potential energy well are weakly metastable due to tunneling through a finite-width energy barrier. There has been some interest in using such biased junctions as qubits with the resonator providing multiqubit coupling. The main result of this work is that coupling to the resonator has a suppressive effect on the junction's tunneling: the stronger the coupling strength between the junction and resonator, the greater the reduction of the tunneling rate. Including damping to the junction also suppresses tunneling, a well-known result, but damping of the resonator actually reduces the magnitude of suppression; i.e., damping the resonator partially counteracts the suppression provided directly by the junction-resonator coupling. Details of the junction-resonator coupling yield interesting variations on this theme that may be useful for qubit design. For example, the coupling ${U}_{\mathit{int}}$ between a current-biased junction and an AlN dilatational resonator should depend on the angular frequency of the resonator ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{R}$ in a power-law fashion [A. N. Cleland and M. R. Geller, Phys. Rev. Lett. 93, 070501 (2004)], specifically ${U}_{\mathit{int}}\ensuremath{\propto}{({\ensuremath{\omega}}_{R})}^{n}$, where $n=1∕2$. We find that for any value of $n$ in the range $0lnl1$ the junction's tunneling rate exhibits a nonmonotonic dependence on ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{R}$, and for $n=1∕2$, the tunneling rate is maximally suppressed for ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{R}∕{\ensuremath{\omega}}_{J}\ensuremath{\approx}1$, where ${\ensuremath{\omega}}_{J}$ is the bias current-dependent plasma frequency of the junction.
Return and Responsibility

Return is foremost the responsibility of the rejectee. The country where a residence permit has been sought may be of assistance (travel document, ticket) but is hereto not obliged. Countries of origin are obliged to take back their own subjects; readmission agreements may be of some help, but are no condition sine qua non. The Executive Committee of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in October 1998 indicated that it too should facilitate the return of persons not in need of international protection. Non-return does not result in access to the labour market and/or the social welfare system.