cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multivariate Statistical Analysis of Compositional Data within the Simplex

Many multivariate statistical tools assume the data is drawn from a continuous and unbounded sample space, such as the d-dimensional set of real numbers R. In these spaces, variables can take on values ranging from −∞ to +∞, including zero. In contrast, many of the data that appear in quantitative microanalysis experiments are drawn from more restricted spaces. The counts in an XEDS detector channel, for example, are constrained to be non-negative. It does not make sense to speak of a 10 eV wide X-ray channel with negative counts, and when commonly-applied algorithms such as Principal Components Analysis (PCA) return results with negative values, many analysts are confused. Compositional data are even more constrained than count data. Consider the microanalysis of a Ni-Al-Fe alloy in an SEM using XEDS. The measured composition at each pixel on the sample is expressed in terms of the mass fraction of each component of the mixture, such as Ni0.25Al0.5Fe0.25. The mass fraction data for each component is constrained to vary from 0 to 1, an extremely narrow range. To complicate matters further, the three component values are jointly constrained to sum to one, i.e. xNi + xAl + xFe = 1. Mathematically, the components are said to fall within a simplex, a severely restricted subspace of R.
A new method for selecting exclusive semileptonic charmless B-decays at e+e− colliders at the ϒ(4S)

We introduce a new method for selecting exclusive semileptonic charmless B-decays in the presence of a large background. The method can be applied to charged and neutral B-mesons decaying into any exclusive semileptonic final state. The method is designed for high luminosity e+e− colliders operating at the ϒ(4S). It employs an improved partial reconstruction technique for D*-mesons and a novel 0-C event fit to both B-meson's decay products resulting in the kinematics of all particles (including neutrinos) in the event. The charged lepton energies are accessible from 1.0 GeV to the kinematic limit.
Cryptanalysis of Shannon-Fano-Elias codes

Data compression techniques such as Shannon-Fano-Elias coding are often used in conjunction with cryptography. We discuss using Shannon-Fano-Elias codes for encryption. We focus mainly on the problem of deciphering a binary sequence that has been Shannon-Fano-Elias encoded. We show that if a cryptanalyst knows the source symbols and the probability mass function (PMF), then the Shannon-Fano-Elias coded sequences may be deciphered within a finite amount of time by exhaustive search. A simple strategy is introduced to prevent this type of eavesdropping
Strategic Complements with First Mover Advantage

We show the existence of equilibrium and first mover advantage when two firms sequentially invest in quality improvement of their respective products. Although the actions (investment levels) of the firms are strategic complements, the second mover does not have an advantage. This is because, although firms are a priori identical, a change in rival investment can affect a firm differently, depending on whether the rival has a higher or lower level of investment. Thus, the marginal payoff with respect to rival action will differ for the first and second mover. We also show that the first mover may choose a higher level of investment than the second mover even though actions are strategic complements and the first mover's marginal payoff with respect to second mover action is negative.
Treatment of Experimental PPLO Infections in Young Chickens with Tylosin, a New Antibiotic

Abstract INTRODUCTION SINCE pleuropneumonia-like organisms (PPLO) are implicated as the cause of chronic respiratory disease (CRD) of chickens, specific drug action against these organisms should measurably aid in the control of naturally occurring CRD. The efficacy of tylosin, a new antibiotic, in the control of an experimental PPLO infection in young chickens has been studied using the previously described infection system of Ose et al. (1960). MATERIALS AND METHODS Properties of tylosin—The physical and chemical characteristics of tylosin have been described in detail by Hamill et al. (1960). The antibiotic has a wide margin of safety and is relatively non-irritating on injection in chickens, turkeys and mammals, or on dust inhalation by chickens. Tylosin in aqueous solution in the pH range of 4.0 to 9.0 is stable for at least one month at room temperature. The lactate and tartrate salts of tylosin are soluble in water in amounts greater than …
Differences in Gestational Age-Specific Birthweight among Chinese, Japanese and White Americans

This study investigated racial differences in gestational age-specific birthweight in a sample of 21,288 Chinese, 11,882 Japanese and 65,818 White resident singleton livebirths, obtained from the National Center for Health Statistics 1983 and 1984 linked birth/infant death cohort files. The gestational age-specific birthweight distributions of Chinese and Japanese were similar, but differed from those of Whites both in the mean level and in the variance. The mean birth-weights of Chinese and Japanese as compared to that of White infants were 4-5% lower among preterm births, and 5-6% lower among term births, after adjustment was made for gestational age, demographic variables, use of antenatal care and infant gender. The racial differences in gestational age-specific birthweight were even greater at the 90th percentile but smaller at the 10th percentile. These racial differences should be considered in both clinical evaluation of newborns and in epidemiological studies. Significant interactions were found between race and such maternal variables as education, marital status, birthplace, and month during which antenatal care began. It suggests that recognition of racial differences in risk factors and exposure-response relationships may be valuable in specifying interventions for intrauterine growth retardation among different racial groups.
Enhanced binding of modified pentosan polysulfate and heparin to bladder—a strategy for improved treatment of interstitial cystitis

Abstract Objectives To attach galactosyl residues to pentosan polysulfate (PPS) and heparin so that these drugs will bind to the endogenous lectins in the bladder. The increased binding may improve their efficacy for treating interstitial cystitis. Methods The anionic polysaccharides, PPS, and heparin were modified by attachment of lactose. The covalent modification was by chemical linking of lactose derivatives or by beta-lactosyl transfer reaction from p -nitrophenyl beta-lactoside using the transglycosylation activity of Trichoderma reesei cellulase enzymes. The unmodified and modified PPS and heparin, as well as various mucin glycoproteins, were radiolabeled or biotinylated and examined for their ability to bind to rabbit and human bladder. Results Both biotinylated and radiolabeled PPS and heparin bound very weakly or not at all to human and rabbit bladders. In contrast, the PPS and heparin modified by attachment of lactose, as well as the asialo mucin glycoproteins, bound strongly to human and rabbit bladders. This binding is apparently mediated by the interaction of the endogenous bladder galactins and the non-reducing galactose terminals in the lactose attached to the anionic polysaccharides or the asialoglycoproteins. Conclusions Lactose-pentosan sulfate and lactose-heparin bind more avidly to the bladder epithelium than the unmodified molecules. Thus, they may be more effective for interstitial cystitis than the parent drugs. Other possible applications of this approach include modification of intravesical chemotherapeutic agents for bladder cancer, or intravesically placed antibiotics, to improve their adherence and retention in the bladder.
Complementary Velocity and Heat Transfer Measurements in a Rotating Cooling Passage With Smooth Walls

An experimental investigation was conducted on the internal flowfield of a simulated smooth-wall turbine blade cooling passage. The square cross-sectioned passage was manufactured from quartz for optical accessibility. Velocity measurements were taken using Particle Image Velocimetry for both heated and non-heated cases. Thin film resistive heaters on all four exterior walls of the passage allowed heat to be added to the coolant flow without obstructing laser access. Under the same conditions, an infrared detector with associated optics collected wall temperature data for use in calculating local Nusselt number. The test section was operated with radial outward flow and at values of Reynolds number and Rotation number typical of a small turbine blade. The density ratio was 0.27. Velocity data for the non-heated case document the evolution of the Coriolis-induced double vortex. The vortex has the effect of disproportionately increasing the leading side boundary layer thickness. Also, the streamwise component of the Coriolis acceleration creates a considerably thinned side wall boundary layer. Additionally, these data reveal a highly unsteady, turbulent flowfield in the cooling passage. Velocity data for the heated case show a strongly distorted streamwise profile indicative of a buoyancy effect on the leading side of the passage. Heat transfermore » data show a maximum factor of two difference in the Nusselt number from trailing side to leading side. A first-order estimate of this heat transfer disparity based on the measured boundary layer edge velocity yields approximately the same factor of two. A momentum integral model was developed for data interpretation, which accounts for coriolis and buoyancy effects. Calculated streamwise profiles and secondary flows match the experimental data well.« less
Fulminant experimental autoimmune encephalo-myelitis induced by retrovirally mediated TCR gene transfer.

Although some efforts have been made to direct the antigen specificity of developing T cells by retroviral mediated expression of known TCR, it is not clear if the resultant T cells are fully functional. In this study retroviral gene transfer technology was used to introduce a cDNA encoding the TCR from a known encephalitogenic T cell into the bone marrow of mice. Activated T cells expressing this TCR, which is specific for the Ac1–11 peptide from myelin basic protein presented by I-Au, cause rapid onset of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). This enabled us to use the onset and progression of the disease as a direct measure of effector functions of T cells generated by this method. The data presented here show that recipients of bone marrow retrovirally transduced with this TCR rapidly develop full-blown EAE that results in paralysis. Therefore, retroviral TCR delivery into the bone marrow supports the development of T cells into fully functional effector cells.
The Anatomy of the Supraclavicular Nerve During Surgical Approach to the Clavicular Shaft

Background Surgery for clavicular shaft fractures is becoming more common but incisional and chest wall numbness reportedly occurs in 10% to 29% of patients. This may be the result of iatrogenic injury to the supraclavicular nerve branches.
Structural aberrations in T-even bacteriophage. III. Induction of “lollipops” and their partial characterization

Abstract Previous results from our laboratory showed that l -canavanine led to the formation of polyheads in T-even bacteriophage. We now report that when l -canavanine is chased from a phage-infected culture with its analog, l -arginine, a new type of aberrant phage particle is found. These particles have heads as long as 44 normal head lengths, have a tail attached, are filled with DNA and are viable. Due to their striking appearance we have termed these monster phage “lollipops.” Different T-even bacteriophage yielded different size distributions of lollipops: T6 lollipops had an average head length of about 3, T4 about 6, and T2 about 12. We have partially characterized these lollipops and found that they contain phage specific DNA and have a greater density in CsCl than do normal phage. SDS-gel electrophoresis indicated that the major head protein (P23∗) had a molecular weight of 45,000 daltons, the same as normal phage, that the percentage amount of internal proteins and P24 were roughly proportional to the amount of P23∗ and that the amount of tail proteins was diminished. Some parameters of induction of these unusual viruses are also presented.
Engineering articular cartilage with spatially-varying matrix composition and mechanical properties from a single stem cell population using a multi-layered hydrogel

Despite significant advances in stem cell differentiation and tissue engineering, directing progenitor cells into three-dimensionally (3D) organized, native-like complex structures with spatially-varying mechanical properties and extra-cellular matrix (ECM) composition has not yet been achieved. The key innovations needed to achieve this would involve methods for directing a single stem cell population into multiple, spatially distinct phenotypes or lineages within a 3D scaffold structure. We have previously shown that specific combinations of natural and synthetic biomaterials can direct marrow-derived stem cells (MSC) into varying phenotypes of chondrocytes that resemble cells from the superficial, transitional, and deep zones of articular cartilage. In this current study, we demonstrate that layer-by-layer organization of these specific biomaterial compositions creates 3D niches that allow a single MSC population to differentiate into zone-specific chondrocytes and organize into a complex tissue structure. Our results indicate that a three-layer polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based hydrogel with chondroitin sulfate (CS) and matrix metalloproteinase-sensitive peptides (MMP-pep) incorporated into the top layer (superficial zone, PEG:CS:MMP-pep), CS incorporated into the middle layer (transitional zone, PEG:CS) and hyaluronic acid incorporated in the bottom layer (deep zone, PEG:HA), creates native-like articular cartilage with spatially-varying mechanical and biochemical properties. Specifically, collagen II levels decreased gradually from the superficial to the deep zone, while collagen X and proteoglycan levels increased, leading to an increasing gradient of compressive modulus from the superficial to the deep zone. We conclude that spatially-varying biomaterial compositions within single 3D scaffolds can stimulate efficient regeneration of multi-layered complex tissues from a single stem cell population.
Upwind monotonic interpolation methods for the solution of the time dependent radiative transfer equation

Abstract We describe the use of upwind monotonic interpolation methods for the solution of the time-dependent radiative transfer equation in both optically thin and thick media. These methods, originally developed to solve Eulerian advection problems in hydrodynamics, have the ability to propagate sharp features in the flow with very little numerical diffusion. We consider the implementation of both explicit and implicit versions of the method. The explicit version is able to keep radiation fronts resolved to only a few zones wide when higher order interpolation methods are used. Although traditional implementations of the implicit version suffer from large numerical diffusion, we describe an implicit method which considerably reduces this diffusion.
The Discovery of Novel, Structurally Diverse Protein Kinase C Agonists through Computer 3D-Database Pharmacophore Search. Molecular Modeling Studies

A computer protein kinase C (PK-C) pharmacophore search on 206,876 nonproprietary structures in the NCI 3D-database led to the discovery of five compounds which were found to possess PK-C binding affinities in the low micromolar range and six others having detectable, but marginal, binding affinities. Molecular modeling studies showed that in addition to the presence of the defined pharmacophore, hydrophobicity and conformational energy are the two other important factors determining the PK-C binding affinity of a compound. The modeling results were confirmed by synthetic modification of two inactive compounds, producing two active derivatives. These newly discovered, structurally diverse lead compounds are being used as the basis for further synthetic modifications aimed at more potent PK-C ligands that will compete with the phorbol esters.
Sensitivity of RF Sensors for Bearing Health Monitoring

Coated bearings in high-performance turbine engines have the potential to provide considerable improvement in engine reliability and service-life extension. One coating performance indicator is the level of vibration generated by rolling elements and their cage separators at high-speed bearing operation. This article introduces a nonintrusive, cage-mounted sensor that detects cage vibration and transmits wirelessly to a nearby receiver. The sensitivity of the cage-mounted sensor was compared to a housing-mounted accelerometer in the detection of seeded faults in coated and uncoated bearings. The smallest spall on an uncoated bearing that the sensor could detect was 28 μm deep × 3.2 mm wide, with a reliability of ∼40%. In contrast, the accelerometer consistently detected all levels of flaws, the smallest being 0.4 μm deep × 3.2 mm wide on the coated bearing, with a reliability of 55%. Despite the sensor having a detection rate less than the accelerometer, this research successfully demonstrated that the se...
Effects of exciting frequencies, grain sizes, and damage upon P-wave velocity for ultrasonic NDT of concrete

This paper focuses on the experimental study of the effects of exciting frequencies, grain (aggregate) sizes, and damage upon the ultrasonic P-wave velocity when performing the ultrasonic nondestructive testing (NDT) for concrete specimens. Two batches of concrete and mortar specimens were prepared in the laboratory for the investigation of the effects from the stated factors upon the P-wave velocity. Damage here mostly refers to microcracks and microvoids in concrete. Five different aggregate sizes, 0' (mortar), 3/8', 1/2', 3/4', and 1', were selected to demonstrate the grain (aggregate) size effect. Exciting frequencies of the ultrasonic wave were set to range from 100 kHz to 1,000 kHz, with increment of 50 kHz, to demonstrate the frequency effect. Styrofoam particles were mixed into the comparison concrete and mortar specimens to simulate the distributed microvoids (damage). Different volume fractions of styrofoam particles were mixed into the mortar specimens in order to study the effect of different porosities (damage) upon the P-wave velocity. The experimental observations show that, for mortar and concrete specimens with aggregate sizes from 0 to 1 inch, the P-wave velocity would not be affected significantly within the tested frequency range (100 - 1000 kHz). The normalized P-wave velocity exhibits almost identical pattern upon the exciting frequencies for all specimens.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Rod-cone interaction in human scotopic vision. I. Temporal analysis.

Abstract A series of experiments studied temporal interactions between spatially superimposed stimuli in the dark adapted human observer: rods or cones were selectively stimulated by utilizing either 420 or 680 nm light. In Experiment 1, the threshold of a test flash was determined at various time intervals from onset of a supraliminal conditioning flash. Conditioning flash presentation increased test threshold above control level for heterochromatic and homochromatic stimulus pairs, thus indicating rod-cone interaction. The time course of threshold changes suggested that rod signals have a longer latency the cone signals. By having the observer adjust the onset of the 420 or 680 nm conditioning flash to appear simultaneous in onset with respect to either an auditory (Experiment 2) or second visual (Experiment 3) stimulus, it was estimated that the 420 nm flash produced a response with a 30–75 msec longer latency than the 680 nm flash. In Experiment 4, test flash threshold was measured at various delays from the onset of a subliminal conditioning flash. The magnitude of summation for heterochromatic and homochromatic stimulus pairs was similar, again indicating rod-cone interaction. Furthermore, the time course of threshold changes again indicated rod signals to have a longer latency than cone signals. The data were discussed in terms of underlying retinal mechanisms, and contrasted with prior behavioral studies which suggested rod-cone independence.
Evolution of two-dimensional crystal morphologies by surface diffusion with anisotropic surface free energies

The Wulff shape of a crystal surface in equilibrium under anisotropic surface free energy has been widely reported and a typical differentiable anisotropic free energy functional form has been used in illustrations. Here we study the evolution of an arbitrary initial two-dimensional crystal shape to equilibrium and we classify the anisotropy in three cases. We find that when the typical surface free energy is critically anisotropic, multiple equilibrium states exist and the evolved equilibrium shape depends on the initial crystal configuration. Numerical simulations show that corners and planar facets develop on the surface in evolution. In cases of severe anisotropy, small surface facets and coarsening can occur. In contrast, when the typical surface free energy is mildly anisotropic, the evolving surface is smooth and the equilibrium shape is unique for a variety of the initial crystal shapes.
Optimization of Routes for the Synthesis of Bismuth Nanotubes: Implications for Nanostructure Form and Selectivity

In this paper, we demonstrate a new route for synthesis of bismuth nanotubes (BiNTs) based on chemical reduction using sodium borohydride. A comparison and an optimization of different synthesis procedures including hydrothermal and solvothermal synthesis for the production of BiNTs are presented. The effects of parameters such as the bismuth precursor, temperature, and reagent mixing process on nanomaterial structure were evaluated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and Raman spectroscopy were employed to characterize the products from the different reaction schemes. A postsynthesis sodium borohydride treatment improved both yield and nanotube structure for all syntheses studied. Different morphologies of the bismuth nanostructures were observed depending on the synthesis method selected.
Chemical modification of Class II G protein-coupled receptor ligands: Frontiers in the development of peptide analogs as neuroendocrine pharmacological therapies

Recent research and clinical data have begun to demonstrate the huge potential therapeutic importance of ligands that modulate the activity of the secretin-like, Class II, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Ligands that can modulate the activity of these Class II GPCRs may have important clinical roles in the treatment of a wide variety of conditions such as osteoporosis, diabetes, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and autism spectrum disorders. While these receptors present important new therapeutic targets, the large glycoprotein nature of their cognate ligands poses many problems with respect to therapeutic peptidergic drug design. These native peptides often exhibit poor bioavailability, metabolic instability, poor receptor selectivity and resultant low potencies in vivo. Recently, increased attention has been paid to the structural modification of these peptides to enhance their therapeutic efficacy. Successful modification strategies have included d-amino acid substitutions, selective truncation, and fatty acid acylation of the peptide. Through these and other processes, these novel peptide ligand analogs can demonstrate enhanced receptor subtype selectivity, directed signal transduction pathway activation, resistance to proteolytic degradation, and improved systemic bioavailability. In the future, it is likely, through additional modification strategies such as addition of circulation-stabilizing transferrin moieties, that the therapeutic pharmacopeia of drugs targeted towards Class II secretin-like receptors may rival that of the Class I rhodopsin-like receptors that currently provide the majority of clinically used GPCR-based therapeutics. Currently, Class II-based drugs include synthesized analogs of vasoactive intestinal peptide for type 2 diabetes or parathyroid hormone for osteoporosis.
Surface characterizations of spin-coated films of ethylcellulose and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose blends

Films of pure ethylcellulose (EC) and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) polymers and EC/HPMC blends were prepared from solutions by spin coating where isopropyl alcohol (IPA), water, and IPA/water cosolvent were used as solvents. Surface structures of the films were investigated using optical microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Raman mapping and spectroscopy. For the films prepared from EC/HPMC blend solutions using the IPA/water cosolvent, different domain structures such as islands or pits and phase separation between EC and HPMC were observed by optical microscopy and AFM. The nature of the polymer components on the surface of the films was identified by Raman mapping and spectroscopy. Experimental results also indicated that polymer composition, solvent, and temperature during spin coating had significant impacts on surface structures of the films.
An organic complementary differential amplifier for flexible AMOLED applications

Active Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode (AMOLED) displays offer distinct benefits for portable electronics applications, including light weight, high brightness, low power consumption, wide viewing angle, and low processing costs. They also are attractive candidates for highly flexible substrates. In active matrix displays, a small transistor circuit is used to drive each OLED device. Recently developed organic thin film transistors (TFTs) have made complementary TFT circuits possible on flexible substrates. We present an organic complementary amplifier as an AMOLED pixel driver. The 7 TFT amplifier circuit is able to achieve less than 1% current drift for a 2x V t change, and fill factor of 75% with a 20μm minimum channel length. The amplifier combines programming speed comparable to an equivalent 2-TFT voltage-programmed circuit with stability akin to a 4-TFT circuit, the trade-off being higher TFT count.
Metabolism of sulphur amino acids via the cystathionine pathway in Argyrotaenia velutinana larvae.

Abstract In a previous study, cysteine and intermediates of the cystathionine pathway (homocysteine and cystathionine) were found to spare approximately 75 per cent of the dietary methionine requirement of Argyrotaenia velutinana larvae indicating a possible conversion of methionine to cysteine in this insect via the cystathionine pathway. To further verify the presence of the cystathionine pathway, studies of methionine and cysteine metabolism were conducted using A. velutinana larvae fed diets containing radioactive ( 35 S) methionine or cysteine. Ion-exchange chromatography of the protein-free amino acid fraction of larvae fed diets containing 35 S-methionine revealed the presence of radioactive methionine, methionine sulphoxide, cystathionine, and taurine. In the protein fraction radioactivity was found in methionine, methionine sulphoxide. and cyst(e)ine. Transfer of the radioactive label from 35 S-methionine to cystathionine and taurine in the protein-free fraction and to cyst(e)ine in the protein fraction confirms the findings of nutritional studies that A. velutinana larvae are capable of converting methionine to cysteine via the cystathionine pathway. The absence of radioactive methionine, methionine sulphoxide, and cystathionine in the protein and protein-free fractions from insects fed 35 S-cysteine showed that the cystathionine pathway from methionine to cysteine is not reversible in this insect. The presence of unknown radioactive peaks in the protein and protein-free fractions from larvae fed either 35 S-methionine or cysteine indicated the possibility of sulphur amino acid metabolism by routes other than the cystathionine pathway.
Treatment of spontaneous pneumothorax by means of continuous intrapleural suction.

A method of obtaining constant negative intrapleural suction of any desired amount is described. Its application in the treatment of 10 patients with spontaneous pneumothorax is presented. Nine of the 10 patients have had no recurrence of the pneumothorax. One had a recurrence and died because of a combination of the pneumothorax, generalized pulmonary emphysema with bullous emphysema, and hematemesis from esophageal varices before the lung could be reexpanded a second time. It could not be considered a fatality from the method itself. None of the patients developed any permanent deleterious after-effects from the continuous intrapleural suction. Cultures of pleural fluid during the time of continuous intrapleural suction showed no bacterial growth. While it is true that the majority of lungs collapsed by spontaneous pneumothorax will expand with no treatment except limitation of activity, it is also true that the time of expansion is several weeks and if the collapse is over 50 per cent it may run well over six weeks, representing a substantial economic loss to the patient. The high percentage of recurrences adds weight to our belief that expectant treatment may not be the treatment of choice even in simple spontaneous pneumothorax.
Role of magnesium sulfate in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage management: A meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials.

Background: There has been longstanding controversy over the use of magnesium sulfate infusion in the medical management of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Several clinical trials evaluating the beneficial effects of magnesium on cerebral vasospasm and their poor outcome have been published. However, results from the majority of these studies have been inconclusive. This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of magnesium on patient outcomes after aneurysmal SAH. Materials and Methods: PubMed and the Cochrane library were searched for controlled clinical trials assessing the efficacy of magnesium sulfate infusion after aneurysmal SAH. Eight studies consisting of 936 patients were included. Results: There was a decreased risk of poor outcome at 3-6 months after SAH in magnesium treatment groups when compared to placebo [0.78 (95% CI 0.66-0.93)]. Poor outcome was defined as severe disability, persistent vegetative state, or death, as measured by the Glasgow outcome scale (GOS), extended Glasgow outcome scale (GOSE) or modified Rankin scale (mRS). The risk of mortality after SAH was unaffected by magnesium treatment [RR 0.68 (95% CI 0.58-1.27)]. Conclusion: Magnesium sulfate infusion decreases risk of poor outcome after aneurysmal SAH. Current studies in the literature do not suggest a role for magnesium sulfate in mortality reduction after SAH.
Simulation-based conjoint ranking for optimal decision support process under aleatory uncertainty

Design chain management requires many decision makers throughout the product development process. It is critical to reduce complexity and uncertainty of the design process by correctly modeling subjective data associated with decision makers' preferences. This paper aims at using decision support to find optimal designs by modeling respondent preferences and trade-offs with consideration of uncertainty. Specifically, a simulation-based ranking methodology is implemented and incorporated with traditional conjoint analysis. This process facilitates a schematic decision support process by alleviating user fatigue. In addition, incorporation of uncertainty in the ranking process provides the capability of producing robust and reliable products. The efficacy and applicability of simulation-based conjoint ranking is demonstrated with a case study of a power-generating shock absorber design.
The Relationship between Audit Report Lags and Future Restatements

SUMMARY: We investigate the relationship between future financial statement restatements and audit report lags. Audit report lags are defined as the number of days between the fiscal year-end and t...
A Cost Comparison of New MCM Technologies

In the course of technology development, decisions must be made about the nature of future progress. To aid in this decision‐making process, Technical Cost Modelling has evolved from traditional cost modelling methodologies in order to accurately predict the dynamics of a system of manufacture. As an example of the utility of this methodology, a new MCM technology has been chosen for cost analysis: deposited dielectric on laminate (MCM‐D/L) electronic packages. For this illustration, the cost drivers are determined and cost/performance trade‐offs with MCM‐D and MCM‐L analysed. With this disciplined approach to cost prediction, technology development cost issues can be decided thoroughly yet fairly quickly.
Quality of life in epilepsy

In the past several years, there has been substantial growth in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) research in epilepsy. Although physicians have long observed and documented many of the psychosocial problems of patients with epilepsy, the attempt to define and quantify HRQOL in these patients is a new science. As Baker et al. noted, QOL research activity in epilepsy has consistently lagged behind similar research in five other common chronic conditions (1). However, several recent developments in HRQOL research in epilepsy provide the possibility to pursue this area scientifically. The goals of this research are clear. As with treatments for most chronic diseases, treatments for epilepsy often fall short of “curing” disease, leaving patients wtih some suboptimal side effects. For most patients with epilepsy, improving function by decreasing symptoms and illness severity is the main goal of therapy. Clearly, this outcome speaks to more than just a patient’s seizure frequency; it calls for a more complete appraisal of a patient’s overall health, including the psychosocial problems which may bother the patient more than the actual physical severity of the illness. As Fallowfield noted in a recent review: “Illness compromises not only one’s biological integrity, but also one’s psychological, social, and economic well-being” (2). HRQOL assessment seeks to evaluate and integrate these multiple domains into a global appraisal of
The benefits of land registration and titling: Economic and social perspectives

Abstract There is convincing evidence from around the world that land registration has led to better access to formal credit, higher land values, higher investments in land, and higher output/income. However, there are prerequisites for land registration to be economically viable, and social aspects which need to be considered when designing a land registration system. Further studies are warranted on some emerging issues.
Impact of an airline merger on customer satisfaction : The case of American airlines/ trans world airlines (TWA) merger

Given the radical changes in the airline industry where many airlines struggle to sustain their financial viability, consolidation appears to be one viable option for airlines. While airlines guarantee that consolidation will bring better customer service, the traveling public fears the effects of mergers that result from less competition. Using the AA/TWA merger, this article presents the results of an empirical study that provides both the airline public and airlines with insight into the real impact of an airline merger on airline service and customer satisfaction.
The heat capacity of a mixed titanate superconductor

Abstract The heat capacity of semiconducting Sr0.925Ba0.075TiO3 has been measured between 0.3 and 4°K. The superconducting transition is observed at 0.5°K. An anomaly in the normal-state heat capacity is interpreted as a change in the number of valleys in the conduction band.
Sexting, Catcalls, and Butt Slaps: How Gender Stereotypes and Perceived Group Norms Predict Sexualized Behavior

The current study examined the role of endorsed stereotypes about men and women and perceived peer norms in predicting three distinct types of stereotypical sexualized behaviors (verbal, physical, and indirect) among late adolescents. Two hundred and fifty U.S. college students from the mid-South (178 females, 72 males) between the ages of 17 and 19 completed a number of surveys regarding sexual gender stereotypes (e.g., men are sex-focused and women are sexual objects), perceived peer norms about the acceptability of stereotypical sexualized behaviors (SSB), and their own SSBs. Results revealed that most college students have perpetrated these SSBs at least once, and that the most common form of sexualized behavior was verbal SSB, such as rating someone’s body. Results also showed that, although the young men and women did not differ in their perpetration of indirect SSBs (e.g., sending pictures via text), young men perpetrated more verbal and physical SSB than women. For young women, endorsing the idea that men are sex-focused predicted all three types of SSB. For young men, endorsing the stereotype that men are sex-focused predicted verbal and physical SSB, and endorsing the stereotype that women are sex objects predicted physical SSB. Importantly, perceived peer group norms were a significant predictor of all three types of SSB for both women and men. Thus, the current study suggests that distinct types of stereotypical sexualized behaviors are common among college students, and are predicted by an individual’s stereotypes about men and women and perceived peer norms.
Cytokine modulation of murine microglial cell superoxide production

Activated microglia may contribute to two opposite effects during inflammation within the central nervous system: host defense against microorganisms and neuronal injury. Each of these processes may be mediated by the generation of reactive oxygen intermediates by activated microglia. We investigated the effects of two proinflammatory cytokines, interferon (IFN)-gamma and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and of the anti-inflammatory cytokine, transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta, on murine microglial cell superoxide (O2-) production upon stimulation with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). Priming of microglia with IFN-gamma or TNF-alpha resulted in a dose-dependent enhancement of O2- release in response to PMA. The priming effects of these two cytokines were additive, suggesting that they acted by independent mechanisms. We also found that IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha stimulated the release of bioactive TGF-beta and that treatment of microglial cell cultures with TGF-beta antagonized the priming effects of IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha on O2- production. The results of this study have implications for understanding the mechanisms by which cytokines and microglia may contribute to host defense as well as to injury of the brain.
Difunctional carboxylic acid anions in oilfield waters

Abstract Recent models of porosity enhancement during sandstone diagenesis have called upon the metal complexing ability of difunctional carboxylic acid anions in subsurface waters to explain aluminosilicate dissolution. Although carboxylic acid anions have been known to exist in oilfield waters since the turn of the century, until now the existence of significant concentrations of difunctional carboxylic acid anions has not been documented. Data from this study show that difunctional carboxylic acid anions can exist in concentrations up to 2640 ppm, and can account for nearly 100% of the organic acid anions in some oilfield waters. Formation water samples with exceptionally high concentrations of difunctional carboxylic acid anions are found in reservoirs which are at maximum levels of thermal exposure, and which are presently in the 80–100°C thermal window. Plagioclase dissolution experiments performed with natural oilfield waters and artificial solutions indicate that waters with high difunctional acid anion concentrations are capable, by organo-metallic complexation, of being “apparently oversaturated” with respect to total aluminum concentrations compared to the inorganic solubility of kaolinite by several orders of magnitude. Dissolution experiments simulating a specific geologic environment (Stevens Sandstone, southern San Joaquin Basin, California; using natural oilfield waters and Stevens Sandstone core samples), produced plagioclase and calcite dissolution textures similar to those noted in well cores from the Stevens Sandstone, as well as raising total aluminum concentrations in these experimental solutions several orders of magnitude over the solubility of kaolinite. Bactericidal preservation of oilfield waters is essential for meaningful analyses of organic acid anions; bacterial degradation of waters can cause dramatic changes in both concentration and distribution of carboxylic acid anions, especially the difunctional acid anions. In addition, elevated temperatures must be avoided (i.e. gas chromatography with FID), for many of the carboxylic acid anions are unstable at temperatures above 100°C. Some oilfied waters have a much higher concentration of difunctinal carboxylic acids anions than was previously thought, and hence a greater capacity to dissolve aluminosilicate framework grains and transport aluminum.
Fiberoptic nanobiosensor: A quantitative calibration method

A fiber optic nanobiosensor, with sensitivity comparable to commercial plasmonic sensors, a highly reduced sensing area, and the possibility of in-situ use is presented.
Feasibility of Monitoring Gas-Hydrate Production With Time-Lapse Vertical Seismic Profiling

Summary Many studies involving the application of geophysical methods in the field of gas hydrates have focused on determining rock-physics relationships for hydrate-bearing sediments, with the goal being to delineate the boundaries of gas-hydrate accumulations and to estimate the quantities of gas hydrate that such accumulations contain using remote-sensing techniques. However, the potential for using time-lapse geophysical methods to monitor the evolution of hydrate accumulations during production and, thus, to manage production has not been investigated. In this work, we begin to examine the feasibility of using time-lapse seismic methods—specifically, the vertical-seismic-profiling (VSP) method—for monitoring changes in hydrate accumulations that are predicted to occur during production of natural gas. A feasibility study of this nature is made possible through the coupled simulation of large-scale production in hydrate accumulations and time-lapse geophysical (seismic) surveys. We consider a hydrate accumulation in the Gulf of Mexico that may represent a promising target for production. Although the current study focuses on one seismic method (VSP), this approach can be extended easily to other geophysical methods, including other seismic methods (e.g., surface seismic or crosshole measurements) and electromagnetic surveys. In addition to examining the sensitivity of seismic attributes and parameters to the changing conditions in hydrate accumulations, our long-term goals in this work are to determine optimal sampling strategies (e.g., source frequency, time interval for data acquisition) and measurement configurations (e.g., source and receiver spacing for VSP), while taking into account uncertainties in rock-physics relationships. The numerical-modeling strategy demonstrated in this study may be used in the future to help design cost-effective geophysical surveys to track the evolution of hydrate properties. Here, we describe the modeling procedure and present some preliminary results.
Mössbauer spectral characteristics of nanostructured Pd–Fe films

Abstract The Mossbauer spectra of nanostructured Pd–Fe solid solutions with 10, 20 and 30 at% Fe are reported. The nanostructured alloys were in the form of freestanding films obtained via pulsed electrodeposition synthesis on titanium substrates. As-deposited and thermally annealed samples were examined. Finite-size effects in the nanostructured films were observed and a magnetic grain reorientation in the as-deposited films was detected upon annealing. The Mossbauer data corroborate XRD and TEM measurements in which the introduction of iron into palladium contributes to the thermal stability of the nanostructured state against grain growth at high temperatures.
Body composition, leptin, and the leptin receptor and their relationship to the growth hormone (GH) axis in growing wethers treated with zeranol.

Age-related changes in body composition, leptin, and hypothalamic-pituitary expression of the leptin receptor and associative relationships of these factors to constituents of the growth hormone (GH) axis were evaluated. Seventy wethers were randomly assigned at birth to one of four treatment groups: control; treatment 1 implanted with the estrogenic compound zeranol (12 mg, Ralgro on days 0, 45, and 90; treatment 2 received zeranol on days 45 and 90; and treatment 3 received zeranol on day 90. Serum and tissues were collected from wethers (n > or = 5) from each group on days 28, 73, 118, and 135. Percent body fat and leptin increased linearly (P or = 0.14) by zeranol. The leptin receptor in the pituitary appeared to be differentially (P = 0.097) expressed across days 73-135, but no differences (P > or = 0.43) were detected in expression of this receptor in the hypothalamus among treatments and ages. Leptin and % body fat were negatively correlated (r > or = -0.52, P < 0.05) to mRNA levels of factors involved in pituitary synthesis and secretion of GH. Serum leptin increased with age as did percent body fat, but zeranol did not influence body composition, serum leptin, or expression of the leptin receptor in the hypothalamus or pituitary; however, the leptin receptor appeared to be differentially expressed among the hypothalamus and pituitary with level of body fat and leptin being inversely associated to transcriptional-factors involved in somatotrope synthesis and secretion of GH.
Redescription of Placobdella parasitica (Say, 1824) Moore, 1901 (Hirudinida: Glossiphoniidae)

ABSTRACT Placobdella parasitica (Say, 1824) was originally described from lakes of the “North-western region.” Leeches collected during May and June, 2012, from Minnesota, USA, the type locality of Hirudo parasitica Say, 1824, were consistent with P. parasitica (Say, 1824) Moore, 1901 as described by Say (1824). The acquisition of these specimens from the type locality facilitated redescription of P. parasitica. A neotype is designated to stabilize the concept of P. parasitica. In contrast to the papillated members of the genus Placobdella, P. parasitica does not have a confusing and problematic taxonomic history. Placobdella parasitica is differentiated from its congeners by its smooth dorsal surface (or sensillae present), simple (medial unpigmented yellow line) to elaborate (medial and paramedial marbled patches) pigmentation, and ventrum with 8 to 12 stripes. Molecular comparison of CO-I sequence data from P. parasitica revealed differences of 14% from Placobdella multilineata, 14% from Placobdella pa...
Modernist Urban Planning as a Tool of Acculturation: Implications for Sustainable Human Settlement Development in Cameroon

Abstract Modernist urban planning, the version of planning that originated in Western Europe during the post-1850 industrial period, is interrogated as a tool of Western acculturation. Previous studies have focused narrowly on the strategies that have been employed to impose Western spatial structures on non-Western societies. The present study is broader in its focus as it examines implications of supplanting indigenous planning principles and practices with Western varieties. Qualitative techniques employing data culled mainly from secondary sources are employed. Cameroon constitutes the empirical referent of study. It is shown that by supplanting indigenous African practices in the built environment, modernist urban planning has effectively complicated sustainable development efforts in the country. To succeed, the paper concludes, planning initiatives must be contextualized to account for local conditions in Cameroon.