cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Novel MEMS Phase Shifters and Wideband Switches for Microwave and MM-wave Applications

True-time delay (TTD) phase shifters and wideband switches have been developed using distributed microelectromechanical system (MEMS) transmission lines. The design consists of a CPW transmission line (W=G=100 ?m) fabricated on a 500 ?m quartz substrate with fixed-fixed beam MEMS bridge capacitors placed periodically over the transmission line, thus creating a slow-wave structure. The measured results demonstrate 0-60 GHz 4.5 psec TTD phase shifters with 2 dB loss/118° phase shift at 60 GHz, and switches with an isolation of better than 40 dB from 21-40 GHz and 40-60 GHz.
Interpretation of overall area tests for thermodynamic consistency: The effect of random error

Methods are developed and illustrated for determining the amount of nonsatisfaction of the overall area (integrated Gibbs-Duhem equation) test for vapor-liquid equilibrium data that is to be expected on the basis of random experimental uncertainties. Data which satisfy the overall test within these limits, as well as the local area test, are said to be consistent within the bounds established by their experimental uncertainties, while data which do not are said to show significant systematic error and hence are termed inconsistent.
Parallel transient algorithm with multistep substructure computation

The computation is parallelized on the basis of a division of the structure into substructures, with each processor computing the response of a substructure independently. Independently computed substructure responses are reconciled directly. Reconciliation of substructure responses can be postponed until after the responses have been computed independently for multiple time steps.
Anomalous band-gap behavior and phase stability of c-BN-diamond alloys.

Electronic-structure calculations allow us to predict that hypothetical ordered mixed crystals of c-BN and diamond representative of the expected short-range order in the alloys show a very pronounced band-gap bowing. This anomalous behavior is believed to be related to the staggered band lineup at the corresponding heterojunction. The miscibility phase diagram of this system is estimated using a simple pseudobinary ``regular-solution'' model for the short-range order and energies of formation of the representative ordered compounds calculated from first principles. It indicates that there is only very limited mutual solubility in the solid state. The band gaps and energies of formation of the disordered ternary alloys are estimated by means of cluster expansions.
Robust locally optimal filters: Kalman and Bayesian estimation theory

This paper presents a unified approach to local optimality, robustness, and Bayesian estimation theory concepts in deriving Kalman filtering equations in the case of non-Gaussian observation noise. In most of these derivations, an approximation criterion proposed by Masreliez is used: the prediction error density is approximately Gaussian. It is shown that locally optimal Kalman filters are equivalent to one-step MAP iterative procedures. The introduction of nonlinear iterative techniques adds a new dimension to the analysis of recursive non-Gaussian estimation. Moreover, to estimate the parameters of the Kalman model, a direct solution of MAP equations is obtained through an m-interval piecewise linear approximation (MIPLA) of the locally optimal nonlinearity (score function). Robustness is achieved by proper modification and approximation of the score function. Finally, the performance of the filters in question are tested under intensive Monte Carlo simulations. Satisfactory results are obtained even in the case of extremely impulsive observation noise (Cauchy contaminated Gaussian).
Salmonella effector AvrA regulation of colonic epithelial cell inflammation by deubiquitination.

AvrA is a newly described bacterial effector existing in Salmonella. Here, we test the hypothesis that AvrA is a deubiquitinase that removes ubiquitin from two inhibitors of the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway, IκBα and β-catenin, thereby inhibiting the inflammatory responses of the host. The role of AvrA was assessed in intestinal epithelial cell models and in mouse models infected with AvrA-deficient and -sufficient Salmonella strains. We also purified AvrA and AvrA mutant proteins and characterized their deubiquitinase activity in a cell-free system. We investigated target gene and inflammatory cytokine expression, as well as effects on epithelial cell proliferation and apoptosis induced by AvrA-deficient and -sufficient bacterial strains in vivo. Our results show that AvrA blocks degradation of IκBα and β-catenin in epithelial cells. AvrA deubiquitinates IκBα, which blocks its degradation and leads to the inhibition of NF-κB activation. Target genes of the NF-κB pathway, such as interleukin-6, were correspondingly down-regulated during bacterial infection with Salmonella expressing AvrA. AvrA also deubiquitinates and thus blocks degradation of β-catenin. Target genes of the β-catenin pathway, such as c-myc and cyclinD1, were correspondingly up-regulated with AvrA expression. Increased β-catenin further negatively regulates the NF-κB pathway. Our findings suggest an important role for AvrA in regulating host inflammatory responses through NF-κB and β-catenin pathways.
Visual regulation of overarm throwing performance

This investigation examined whether visual feedback is used to make online adjustments during overarm throwing performance. Eight healthy, college-aged males able to throw in excess of 31.3 m/s with previous baseball pitching experience participated. Subjects performed maximal-effort overarm throws under a pretest condition and three test conditions. Under the randomly presented test conditions, the target either maintained its initial location or translated left or right of this location upon stride-foot contact. Subjects were instructed to project the ball to the terminal target location while maintaining maximal speed. Ball landing location, ball speed at release, and several kinematic parameters associated with the throwing motion were compared between conditions. The ball’s global landing location within the horizontal dimension in the test-left and test-right conditions was more negative and positive, respectively, than in the pretest and test condition where the target maintained its initial position. Ball speed was lower in all test conditions relative to the pretest condition. Subjects also exhibited less lateral trunk tilt and greater peak pelvis linear velocity in all test conditions relative to the pretest. The overall time from stride-foot contact and ball release was not different between conditions, and no positional kinematic differences were observed between test conditions. The results of this study suggest that visually driven corrections occur late in the throwing motion without changes in the overall movement time. However, there do not appear to be specific features of the throwing motion that all subjects manipulate while making these adjustments.
Sun compass orientation of the northern cricket frog, Acris crepitans.

Summary When released in water at the centre of a circular pen 50 ft in diameter, northern cricket frogs ( Acris crepitans ) from shores of natural bodies of water oriented on a compass course (Y-axis) that bisected the home shore at rightangles. Frogs taken to the test pen in closed containers responded similarly to those moved in view of the sky, and Y-axis orientation was unaffected in individuals displaced 115 miles east in light-tight containers. Specimens from opposite shores oriented to their respective Y-axis, even when released simultaneously. When a large number of individuals was collected from one segment of shore line and held in darkness for periodic release during a 24-hr period, orientation persisted under the sun, moon, and/or stars. Cricket frogs held in darkness at a constant temperature for periods of 30 hr and up to 7 days exhibited a decline in accuracy of Y-axis orientation that culminated in a random pattern after 7 days. Apparently differences in phase synchronization between the frogs timing mechanism and local time were responsible for the failure to orient. Orientation was reestablished to the original Y-axis by exposing ‘dephased’ specimens to the normal light-dark regime or to daily temperature and humidity fluctuations. A photo-period of normal duration, but administered 6 hr early (or late) relative to local time, reestablished orientation, but on a Y-axis 90° to the left (or right) of the original. A daily exposure to 10 min indirect light was sufficient to reestablish orientation in 8 days. A learned shore position, view of a useful celestial cue, and a timing mechanism phased to local time are necessary for Y-axis type of orientation. The demonstrated use of several types of temporal cues in the cricket frog suggests that alternative sources of information from several environmental components may be employed in nature, depending upon circumstance and availability. Y-axis type of orientation is a complex mechanism and appears to be a basic behavioural characteristic shared by most or all anurans
The central neuropeptides ACTH and α-MSH in fever control

Abstract The chain of evidence that the endogenous neuropeptides ACTH and α-MSH have a role in central mediation of thermoregulation is reviewed. It is concluded that one or both of these peptides is important to the limitation of maximal fever.
Influence of cure via network structure on mechanical properties of a free-radical polymerizing thermoset

Abstract An improved understanding has been achieved regarding the relationships among cure chemistry, network structure, and final physical properties of vinyl ester (VE) resins, a thermoset polymer often used as the matrix of fiber reinforced polymers. Mechanical properties of the polymer are found to depend on both cure schedule and cure formulation. The possibilities of phase separation and micro-gel formation being the cause for these differences in mechanical properties are examined. The VE/styrene (S) system does not phase separate under the conditions studied. Though bulk properties of the resin are unaffected by the details of the cure, the microscopic morphology, in particular the type of cross-link formed (intermolecular bond or intramolecular bond), is sensitive to both cure temperature and initiation mechanism as determined by cure formulation. An analysis of cure kinetics shows that both temperature and initiation mechanism affect the apparent ‘reaction order’ of the VE/S system as determined by the autocatalytic equation. This apparent reaction order is interpreted as being an indication of the degree of heterogeneity in the resin. By controlling cure temperature and cure formulation, it is possible to minimize the apparent reaction order and thereby optimize physical properties. Finally, a theory is adapted from other non-network polymer systems to qualitatively describe how cure temperature and initiation mechanism may alter the heterogeneity in network structure via micro-gel formation and how these changes in structure affect changes in the mechanical properties.
Tumor regression by repeated intratumoral delivery of water soluble lipopolymers/p2CMVmIL-12 complexes.

The recruitment of the body's own immune system is amongst the most potent defenses known against cancer. Recent attempts to harness this response have enlisted the use of the immune modulating cytokine, interleukin-12 (IL-12). The objective of this work is to investigate the organ distribution and anti-tumor response in vivo after intratumoral administration of IL-12 expression plasmid complexed with water soluble lipopolymer (WSLP). Formulations of WSLP/p2CMVmIL-12 at N/P mol ratio of 20:1 were prepared in the presence of 5% (w/v) glucose. Organ distribution data following intratumoral injection of CT-26 subcutaneous tumor-bearing BALB/c mice demonstrated enhanced retention of WSLP/p2CMVmIL-12 complexes within the tumor and limited accumulation in other organs for up to 96 h. Tumor-bearing BALB/c mice received either single or repeated intratumoral injections at 4- or 8-day intervals to examine the efficacy of single versus repeated injections on tumor regression and survival. Significant tumor growth inhibition during 4- and 8-day injection trials was observed with maximal survival in mice receiving 4-day injections of WSLP/p2CMVmIL-12 complexes. In conclusion, the water-soluble non-toxic lipopolymer complexed with p2CMVIL-12 showed enhanced transgene expression in vivo, inhibits the rate of tumor growth, and significantly increases survival.
Size Variations and Long-Wave Circulation within the January Northern Hemisphere Circumpolar Vortex: 1946–89

Abstract The close association between size variations in the Northern Hemisphere circumpolar vortex and surface and middle-troposheric thermal characteristics makes vortex measurement a valuable tool in monitoring and understanding climate change. Unfortunately, as with most hemispheric circulation indices, measures of total vortex size offer little insight into regional changes in the vortex. Traditional approaches to vortex size calculation, which are based upon planimeter measurements on a polar stereographic projection, limit the ability to examine regional contributions to the total vortex and cannot be used to assess specific linkages between vortex expansion and contraction and the broader class of long wave circulation phenomena. Furthermore, because the scale of the polar stereographic projection varies from one latitude to another, interannual variations in planimeter vortex size measurements are influenced somewhat by the position of the vortex relative to the North Pole. Many of these problem...
Absorbance detection of amino acids by laser wave mixing in microbore liquid chromatography

Abstract Nonlinear optical phase conjugation by degenerate four-wave mixing is demonstrated as a sensitive “absorbance” detection method for microbore high-performance liquid chromatography. An argon ion laser operating at the 488-nm line is used as the excitation light source to generate the wave-mixing signal for dabsyl-labeled amino acids. Advantages of the nonlinear laser detection method include: virtually 100% optical signal collection efficiency, generation of the signal in the form of a coherent laser beam, signal measurement against a virtually dark background, reliable detection of small absorbance values, excellent detection sensitivity for both fluorescing and non-fluorescing analytes, relatively simple one-color one-laser optical setup, and low power or energy requirements for continuous-wave or pulsed lasers. Using our one-laser one-color nonlinear laser detector for “absorbance” measurements in liquid chromatography, we report a crude preliminary “injected” detection limit of 780 fmol for glycine.
Aging On the Job

The older population is growing faster than the population as a whole. Paid work is the main mechanism for physical activity in humans. We, therefore, wanted to ascertain whether work practices (such as employment status and the types of tasks workers perform) follow the biological decline in physical activity that occurs with aging in humans and many other species. We recorded work practices in 3352 adults in the Ivory Coast to establish how work burdens are distributed across different age groups in a community that is minimally fettered by legal constraints. We found a decrease in the amount of work performed with increasing age, and we found that elderly persons performed more skilled, less exothermic tasks than younger workers. These data mirror global workforce distribution trends expressed by age. If the trend continues, a major portion of the population will be unlikely to contribute to the labor force in the near future, producing potentially adverse economic consequences in some populations. Although the problem might be averted or at least minimized by implementing different employment policies, biological factors could overlay and supervene any economic planning.
Librarians as matchmakers: connecting seniors in their Capstone semester

Purpose – The paper seeks to describe a collaborative matchmaking seminar that expands the role of academic librarians, and provides services with special benefit to first generation college students.Design/methodology/approach – The conditions and rationale for the service, as well as the design and delivery components, are described.Findings – First generation college students are challenged by gaps in their heuristic knowledge of “how” a capstone senior semester project works. Librarians are ideally positioned to collaborate with faculty to meet the information needs of these students.Practical implications – This case study documents a successful approach to enlarging the role of librarians in contributing to student success.Originality/value – Recounts a number of unmet needs at a university with heavy attendance by first generation college students that presented librarians with an opportunity for a natural and logical expansion of their roles as partners with faculty in student achievement.
SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES ON SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNING. Rama K. Agnihotri, Amrit L. Khjuina, and Itesh Sachdev (Eds.) . New Delhi: Sage Publications, 1998. Pp. 238. $34.00 cloth.

According to the editors of this volume, models and theories of linguistic analysis that are based on a study of monolingual societies are no longer appropriate for our contemporary world. Fueled by an interest in examining “multilingual and pluricultural societies where learning more than one language and accommodating multiple identities is a way of life” (p. 17), they have collected 11 papers as well as an introductory essay that analyze second language learning in a range of interesting multicultural settings. For example, there are papers on the acquisition of Hindi by Tamils in Delhi, English and German by Indian undergraduates at the University of Delhi, and English by immigrants from six different countries in Britain.
Coping with International Accounting Diversity: Fund Managers' Views on Disclosure, Reconciliation, and Harmonization*

In this paper we examine the practices of representative samples of U.S.- and U.K.-based international investment managers in order to determine whether and how they are affected by accounting diversity and, therefore, by the presence or absence of quantitative reconciliation, and what their views are towards greater disclosure, reconciliation, or harmonization. We find that all three forms of reduced diversity-more uniform disclosure, quantitative reconciliation to U.S. GAAP, and international harmonization are viewed as good things by managers. None, however, appears to be critical in the investment process. Reconciliation is a costly requirement and we conclude that the SEC's insistence on reconciliation is not well-founded and that other means, especially greater emphasis on mutual recognition subject to certain minimum standards of disclosure and presentation, would be more effective.
Hedging performance of shrimp futures contracts with multiple deliverable grades

The performance of the black tiger and white shrimp futures contracts traded in the Minneapolis Grain Exchange (MGE) is considered. These two futures contracts have suffered low trader participation[fn100] since their inception despite the underlying multibillion-dollar cash shrimp market. The article tries to find answers for such lack of interest in the context of the multiple deliverable category character of both contracts. In particular, the hedging effectiveness and the adequacy of the premiums/discounts are measured for the various shrimp size categories traded in each contract. The analyses indicate that the hedging effectiveness of both contracts is relatively modest. Part of the explanation for the performance of the contracts resides in high deliverable category exchange option values, which stem from volatility in the price differentials between size categories. The fixed premiums/discounts are not able to provide a remedy to the alternation in the cheapest to deliver category. There is also a liquidity problem that could result from the peculiarities of seafood trade. It is concluded that the lack of trader interest may be influenced by initial high deliverable category exchange option values. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 19: 957–990, 1999
Evolution of human cytoplasmic actin gene sequences: chromosome mapping and structural characterizations of three cytoplasmic actin-like pseudogenes including one on the Y chromosome

Abstract Eight recombinant phage clones containing cytoplasmic actin-like gene sequences have been isolated from a human genomic library for structural characterization. Kpn I family repeat sequences flank six of these actin genes isolated, and Alu family repeats are scattered throughout the DNA inserts of all eight phage clones. Three of these genes are γ actin-like, and the other five are β actin-like. The complete nucleotide sequence analysis of one β and one γ actin-like genes and their flanking regions demonstrates that they both are processed pseudogenes. Using unique DNA sequences flanking these two pseudogenes as hybridization probes for human-mouse somatic cell hybrid DNAs, we have mapped the two actin pseudogenes on human chromosomes 8 and 3, respectively. We have also determined the DNA sequence of a human Y chromosome-linked, processed actin pseudogene. The different values of sequence divergence of these processed pseudogenes and their functional counterparts allow us to estimate the time of generation of the pseudogenes. The results suggest that the cDNA insertion events generating the human cytoplasmic actin-like pseudogenes have occurred at significantly different times during the evolution of primates, after their separation from other mammalian species.
Comparison of intense-field ionization of diatomic molecules and rare-gas atoms

Strong, short laser pulses have been used to ionize diatomic molecules and rare-gas atoms. Using mixed species targets, intensity-dependent ionization yield ratios have been measured directly for pairs of molecules and atoms with similar ionization potentials. Specifically, ionization rate ratios for homonuclear $({\mathrm{N}}_{2}:\mathrm{Ar},{\mathrm{F}}_{2}:\mathrm{Ar},{\mathrm{D}}_{2}:\mathrm{Ar},{\mathrm{O}}_{2}:\mathrm{Xe},{\mathrm{S}}_{2}:\mathrm{Xe})$ and heteronuclear (CO:Kr, NO:Xe, SO:Xe) molecules have been obtained. Our experimental results are compared to the predictions of several approximate theoretical models. In general, these models fail to accurately describe the detailed differences in the intense laser ionization rates of atomic and diatomic targets.
Evaluation of methods for verifying the performance of color‐measuring instruments. Part I: Repeatability

A recent ASTM specification (ASTM E2214-02) was created to standardize the terminology and procedures used to evaluate color measuring instruments. This specification addresses the need for uniformity among the manufacturers of such instruments when quantifying the performance of their products. The scope of E2214 is necessarily large, covering the procedures required to compare instruments for a variety of metrics, all of which are important to their overall performance. In this work, we will focus on one aspect of the instrument evaluation: repeatability performance. We will present repeatability results from a long-term study of twelve commercial spectrophotometers. Comparisons will be made between traditional color difference metrics and the more complex multidimensional methods specified in E2214. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 32, 166–175, 2007
Sildenafil for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a randomized crossover trial.

AbstractRationale: Pulmonary hypertension with exercise is common in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and may contribute to exercise limitation in this disease. We aimed to determine the effects of treatment with sildenafil on exercise capacity in patients with COPD and emphysema. Methods: We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 2-period crossover trial of sildenafil thrice daily in ten adults with COPD and emphysema on CT scan without pulmonary hypertension. We randomized study participants to 4 weeks of sildenafil (or placebo) followed by a 1-week washout and then 4 weeks of placebo (or sildenafil). The 2 primary outcomes were the 6-minute walk distance and oxygen consumption at peak exercise. Results: Sildenafil had no effect on 6-minute walk distance (placebo-corrected difference = -7.8 m, 95% confidence interval, -23.2 to 7.5 m, p = 0.35) or oxygen consumption at peak exercise (placebo-corrected difference = -0.1 ml/kg/min, 95% confidence interval -2.1 to 1.8 ml/kg/min...
DICOM image transmission for real-time telemanagement of full-field digital mammography (FFDM)

The purpose of this project is to investigate the feasibility to remotely manage mammography examinations in real time, which is defined as mammography telemanagement. In such a scenario, the remotely located expert mammographer needs to view newly generated images and communicate with on-site technologist before a patient leaves the exam room. Therefore, almost real-time transmission of large volume digital mammograms between these two parties must be available. A digital telemammography test-bed has been setup between two clinical facilities in University of California, San Francisco. Both the hardware and software components of the system are discussed. Digital mammogram transmission between two campuses, however, is not yet optimal. Several methods are presented to improve the image availability. By implementing these schemes, the total time for transferring one digital mammogram from the FFDM to the remote expert workstation is reduced form 42 sec to 6 sec. It is concluded that, with improved system design and extended software capabilities, it is feasible to explore real-time telemanagement protocol in telemammography.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Peripheral versus intracerebroventricular administration of quaternary naltrexone and the enhancement of Pavlovian conditioning.

Abstract When rats are placed in a context associated with mild electric shock (1 mA/0.75 s), the environmental cues alone can provoke an immobile crouching behavior termed freezing. Freezing response is a Pavlovian conditional response provoked by stimuli that come to be associated with shock. Previous research has shown that peripheral injection of opioid antagonists can enhance this response. Two experiments were conducted to determine if peripheral and/or central opioid mechanisms are involved in this enhancement of freezing by employing quaternary naltrexone (QNTX), an opioid antagonist which does not readily penetrate the ‘blood-brain barrier’. QNTX (5 and 10 μg/rat) administered i.c.v. prior to shock significantly enhanced freezing 24 h later, whereas i.p. injected QNTX, at doses as high as 20 mg/kg, had no effect. These results suggest that the enhancement of conditional freezing produced by QNTX is mediated by central, not peripheral, opioid mechanisms.
Successes and remaining challenges after 10 years of varicella vaccination in the USA

Beginning in 1995, universal varicella vaccination was recommended in the USA for all children aged 12-18 months, and all susceptible adolescents and adults. Many physicians were initially sceptical about the need to prevent primary varicella. However, with passage of state daycare and school entry mandates for varicella immunization, national varicella vaccination rates increased to approximately 90% by 2004. Several studies have demonstrated concomitant reductions in varicella-related healthcare utilization, costs and varicella-related mortality among children in the vaccinated age group, as well as adults. Remaining challenges include: first, outbreaks of 'breakthrough' varicella in vaccinated populations, which may prompt a second-dose recommendation, and second, possible increases in the incidence of secondary varicella (zoster) among adults whose natural immunity may wane in the absence of endemic varicella. The latter concern highlights the importance of a promising new varicella vaccine for older adults that may be licensed and recommended in the next 2 years.
Prolonged electrical stimulation over hip flexors increases locomotor output in human SCI

Abstract Objectives The objective of this study was to determine whether enhanced feedback from thigh afferents improves locomotor output in human spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods The effects of afferent feedback originating from the upper thigh muscles on locomotion was examined using electrical stimulation in 10 subjects with incomplete SCI and three neurologically intact controls during robotic-assisted treadmill walking. Electrical stimulation consisted of 20 pulses at 30 Hz, applied bilaterally to the skin of the medial thigh, approximately over the sartorius muscle. The stimulation was applied at four different phases of the gait cycle. Torque responses of hip and knee joints and electromyograms of both legs were recorded during baseline with no stimulation, stimulation, and post-stimulation. Results During stimulation, enhanced hip and knee extension and flexion torque responses were observed during the stance and swing phases, respectively, for all four different stimulation conditions. Larger hip extension torque was observed when the stimulation was applied during the stance phase and the transition from stance to swing. Conclusions Enhanced afferent feedback produced by electrical stimulation may increase the excitability of the spinal cord locomotor circuits in human SCI. Significance Results from this study emphasize the contribution of sensory information from thigh muscles, particularly the sartorius muscle afferents, to locomotor control in human SCI during treadmill walking.
Calcitonin Inhibition of Intestinal Phosphate Absorption

THE hormone calcitonin (CT) produces a hypocalcaemia and hypophosphataemia and has been reported to influence bone metabolism by interfering with the bone resorptive process1. The hypocalcaemic effect of calcitonin was seen in rats that either had their intestines removed or were nephrectomized before dosage with CT2, and it was therefore inferred that neither the kidney nor the gut mediated the effects of calcitonin1.
Investigation of Interfacial Thermal Resistance on Nano-Structures Using Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Due to their very high thermal conductivity carbon nanotubes have been found to be an excellent material for thermal management. Experiments have shown that the heaters coated with carbon nanotubes increase the heat transfer by as much as 60%. Also when nanotubes are used as filler materials in composites, they tend to increase the thermal conductivity of the composites. But the increase in the heat transfer and the thermal conductivity has been found to be much less than the calculated values. This decrease has been attributed to the interfacial thermal resistance between the carbon nanotubes and the surrounding material. MD simulations were performed to study the interfacial thermal resistance between the carbon nanotubes and the liquid molecules. In the simulations, the nanotube is placed at the center of the simulation box and a temperature of 300K is imposed on the system. Then the temperature of the nanotube is raised instantaneously and the system is allowed to relax. From the temperature decay, the interfacial thermal resistance between the carbon nanotube and the liquid molecules is calculated. In this study the liquid molecules under investigation are n-heptane, n-tridecane and n-nonadecane.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Assessment of the teratogenicity of ammonium vanadate using Syrian golden hamsters.

Abstract The exposure of pregnant Syrian golden hamsters to ammonium vanadate from Days 5 through 10 of gestation resulted in a statistically significant increase in skeletal anomalies and a decrease in the male:female fetal sex ratio. Skeletal anomalies included micrognathia, supernumerary ribs, and alterations in sternebral ossification. Although not statistically significant, external anomalies included meningocoele, one fetus with multiple anomalies, and the presence of a molar pregnancy. Soft tissue anomalies did not differ significantly among groups but included hydronephrosis/hydroureter and kidney dysplasia. The small numbers of malformed offspring and the lack of a clear-cut dose—response did not allow a definitive assessment of the teratogenicity of ammonium vanadate.
Mathematical analysis of vortex sheets

We consider the motion of the interface separating two domains of the same fluid that moves with different velocities along the tangential direction of the interface. The evolution of the interface (the vortex sheet) is governed by the Birkhoff-Rott (BR) equations. We consider the question of the weakest possible assumptions such that the Birkhoff-Rott equation makes sense. This leads us to introduce chord-arc curves to this problem. We present three results. The first can be stated as the following: Assume that the Birkhoff-Rott equation has a solution in a weak sense and that the vortex strength is bounded away from 0 and ∞. Moreover, assume that the solution gives rise to a vortex sheet curve that is chord-arc. Then the curve is automatically smooth, in fact analytic, for fixed time. The second and third results demonstrate that the Birkhoff-Rott equation can be solved if and only if only half the initial data is given. c � 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High Performance Polymer Light-Emitting Diodes Fabricated by a Low Temperature Lamination Process**

We report on the successful demonstration of high performance polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs) using a low temperature, plastic lamination process. Blue- and red-emitting PLEDs were fabricated by laminating different luminescent polymers and organic compounds together to form the active media. This unique approach eliminates the issue of organic solvent compatibility with the organic layers for fabricating multi-layer PLEDs. In addition, a template activated surface process (TAS) has been successfully applied to generate an optimum interface for the low temperature lamination process. Atomic force microscopy analysis reveals a distinct difference in the surfaces created by the TAS and the spin-coating process. This observation coupled with the device data confirms the importance of the activated interface in the lamination process.
Clock-Comparison Tests of Lorentz and CPT Symmetry in Space

Clock-comparison experiments conducted in space can provide access to many unmeasured coefficients for Lorentz and CPT violation. The orbital configuration of a satellite platform and the relatively large velocities attainable in a deep-space mission would permit a broad range of tests with Planck-scale sensitivity.
Preliminary studies on triticale, wheat, barley, and rye responses to lime and N.

Abstract The lime and N requirements for triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack) have not been established because of the relatively short history of the crop. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of lime and high N rates on triticale, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), and rye (Secale cereale L.) on Dickson silt loam (Typic Paleudult) and Decatur silty clay loam (Rhodic Paleudult) in 1974–1976. The soils had pH values of 4.9 and 5.5 with no lime and 5.4 and 5.8, respectively, when limed as recommended. The fertilizer rates were 112, 140, and 170 kg N/ha. Yields and N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Mn, Fe, Al, Zn, Cu, and B were determined in straw and grain. Liming the Dickson soil increased the straw yields of barley at 112 kg N/ha and grain yields of the cultivars generally at the 170 kg N/ha rate. Liming the Decatur soil did not have consistent effects on straw yields but increased the grain yields of the wheat and rye cultivars. Increasing N rate increased the straw yields of wheat on...
Dietary Vitamin E Affects Lipid Oxidation and Total Volatiles of Irradiated Raw Turkey Meat

Breast and leg meat patties, prepared from turkeys fed diets containing 25, 200, 400 or 600 IU of dl-α-tocopheryl acetate (TA) per kg diet, were irradiated at 0 or 2.5 kGy with vacuum or loose packaging. The effects of dietary TA on storage stability and production of volatiles in irradiated raw turkey meat were determined. Dietary TA at > 200 IU/kg decreased lipid oxidation and reduced total volatiles of raw turkey patties after 7-days of storage. However, the antioxidant effects of dietary TA were more notable when the patties were loosely packaged than when vacuum-packaged. Irradiation increased lipid oxidation of raw turkey meats only when loosely packaged but had limited effects on formation of total volatiles after storage at 4°C for 7 days or longer.
Modeling the repetitive firing of retinal ganglion cells

Abstract A kinetic model for the repetitive firing of retinal ganglion cells were synthesized from voltage-clamp data and evaluated by comparison with whole cell recordings from ganglion cells in the intact tiger salamander retina. Five distinct channels were included in the model and were sufficient to describe the physiologically observed frequency/current relationship in response to various levels of cell depolarization.
Antecedents of Organizational Commitment Among Hospital Nurses

Two sets of variables (affective reactions to attributes of the hospital nurse's job and attributes of the nurse) were predicted to be related to organizational commitment. Regression analysis was applied to the statistically significant correlates (satisfaction with work itself, supervision, promotional opportunities, and coworkers; and age, basic nursing education, adherence to Protestant work ethic ideals, and a gauge of family responsibilities) found in a sample of 131 registered hospital nurses. The model was cross-validated in a second sample of 130 nurses; 42% of the variance in commitment was explained by the model. The theoretical and practical significance of the findings is discussed.
Axisymmetric delamination in deposited multi-layers

The problem of residual stress-driven axisymmetric delamination in successively deposited isotropic multi-layers is addressed in this study. A circular-shaped multi-layer is modeled with a delamination crack extending uniformly from the free edge. Applications for this work include the modeling of residual stress-driven delamination of multi-layered coatings and films. The application of specific interest is residual stress-driven debonding in parts created by layered manufacturing methods, where molten metal layers are successively deposited to form three-dimensional shapes. Results for energy release rates as a function of delamination crack length are presented from fracture mechanics models of various axisymmetric multi-layer geometries. Results are compared to those from planar delamination problems. Methods are outlined for determining a conservative upper bound for the maximum energy release rate for an axisymmetrically extending delamination crack. These methods are based on potential energy calculations from a residual stress model for an uncracked multi-layer and do not require fracture mechanics modeling. The easily calculated bound for the maximum energy release rate can be used to guide the design of delamination-resistant multi-layers.
The nature and molecular basis of cutaneous photosensitivity reactions to psoralens and coal tar

The basic aspects of cutaneous photosensitization reactions and the mode of therapeutic effectiveness of psoralens and coal tar, the two groups of photosensitizing agents used extensively in the photochemotherapy of psoriasis, have been reviewed. Psoralen-induced skin photosensitization and the therapeutic action of psoralens involve two distinct types of reactions, and these two reactions occur independently of each other and concurrently when the psoralen-treated skin (oral or topical) is exposed to 320 to 400 nm of radiation. The first, type I, is an oxygen-independent reaction and primarily involves photoreaction with DNA; the second, type II, is a sensitized reaction dependent on oxygen and involves the formation of singlet oxygen (1O2). The photoreactive form of psoralen is its triplet state, and the sites of reaction are (1) the cell membrane of the epidermal, dermal, and endothelial cells; (2) the cytoplasmic constituents, such as enzymes, RNA, lysosomes, etc.; (3) the cell nuclei (DNA and chromatin); and (4) the sensitized production of 1O2, which is responsible for cell-membrane damage and vasodilation. The major damage would be initiated by a type I reaction and would be seen in the form of nuclear damage to DNA resulting from the interaction of psoralen with DNA and to a lesser extent with RNA. The skin photosensitization response (erythema, edema, membrane damage, etc.) would result from a type II reaction involving the generation of l02. Crude coal tar (CCT), widely used in the Goeckerman therapy for psoriasis, also produces type I and type II reactions. The therapeutic and photosensitizing actions of CCT are due to (1) the photoconjugation of the photoreactive ingredients of CCT with DNA, causing inter-strand cross-links; and (2) the production of 1O2. CCT is an efficient producer of 1O2, more so than 8-methoxypso-ralen, and is responsible for cell-membrane damage and cellular edema.
The Tonoplast-Localized Sucrose Transporter in Populus (PtaSUT4) Regulates Whole-Plant Water Relations, Responses to Water Stress, and Photosynthesis

The Populus sucrose (Suc) transporter 4 (PtaSUT4), like its orthologs in other plant taxa, is tonoplast localized and thought to mediate Suc export from the vacuole into the cytosol. In source leaves of Populus, SUT4 is the predominantly expressed gene family member, with transcript levels several times higher than those of plasma membrane SUTs. A hypothesis is advanced that SUT4-mediated tonoplast sucrose fluxes contribute to the regulation of osmotic gradients between cellular compartments, with the potential to mediate both sink provisioning and drought tolerance in Populus. Here, we describe the effects of PtaSUT4-RNA interference (RNAi) on sucrose levels and raffinose family oligosaccharides (RFO) induction, photosynthesis, and water uptake, retention and loss during acute and chronic drought stresses. Under normal water-replete growing conditions, SUT4-RNAi plants had generally higher shoot water contents than wild-type plants. In response to soil drying during a short-term, acute drought, RNAi plants exhibited reduced rates of water uptake and delayed wilting relative to wild-type plants. SUT4-RNAi plants had larger leaf areas and lower photosynthesis rates than wild-type plants under well-watered, but not under chronic water-limiting conditions. Moreover, the magnitude of shoot water content, height growth, and photosynthesis responses to contrasting soil moisture regimes was greater in RNAi than wild-type plants. The concentrations of stress-responsive RFOs increased in wild-type plants but were unaffected in SUT4-RNAi plants under chronically dry conditions. We discuss a model in which the subcellular compartmentalization of sucrose mediated by PtaSUT4 is regulated in response to both sink demand and plant water status in Populus.
Preparation and properties of RMg(macrocycle)+ cations with accompanying anions derived from acidic hydrocarbons or a hindered phenol

Reactions of an R 2 Mg compound, a macrocycle, and fluorene (FlH) or indene (InH) can form RMg(macrocycle) + and Fl - or In - . Some reactions of RMgOAr (Ar = 2,6-di-tert-butylphenyl) and macrocycles form RMg(macrocycle) + RMg(OAr) 2 - . Crystal structures of MeMg(1,4,8,11-tetramethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane) + Cp - , i-BuMgOAr(18-crown-6), and EtMgOAr(tetramethylethylenediamine) are reported.
Numeric control on the late-glacial chronology of the southern Laurentide Ice Sheet derived from ice-proximal lacustrine deposits

We used a combination of radiocarbon and OSL dating in ice-proximal lacustrine silt and clay and outwash sand to estimate when ice of the Green Bay Lobe of the Laurentide Ice Sheet began retreating from its maximum position in south-central Wisconsin. The radiocarbon ages indicate that lakes had formed in the two tributary valleys by ~ 17.2 and 20.1 ka, respectively. The OSL ages indicate that the Green Bay Lobe was at its maximum position from about 26.4 ± 5.1 ka to 21.4 ± 3.3 ka. These data provide entirely new chronologic control on late Wisconsin (Marine Isotope Stage 2) glacial event in the upper Midwest, as well as the opportunity to directly compare radiocarbon and OSL ages in this setting.
The design of well-defined PDMS–Magnetite complexes

Magnetic nanoparticles have numerous applications, particularly in biological systems for drug delivery, cell targeting, and as MRI contrast agents. This paper addresses the synthesis and characterization of well-defined magnetite nanoparticles coated with tricarboxylate-functional polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) oligomers of varying molecular weight. Two methods – co-precipitation of iron chlorides and high-temperature reduction of iron(III) acetylacetonate – were used to synthesize the magnetite nanoparticles and compared. Through implementation of a polymer brush model, it was determined that the co-precipitation synthesis method required multiple magnetic separations and significant material loss to produce a well-defined particle distribution. Conversely, the high-temperature synthesis method showed a well-defined particle distribution without any magnetic separation. Through adjustment of critical design parameters such as polymer loading and molecular weight, the diameters of the complexes were predicted to within seven percent of experimental values. This demonstrates a tool for the design of sterically-stabilized single–particle complexes with a specifically tailored particle size.
Perioperative management of patients with left ventricular assist devices undergoing noncardiac surgery.

t d p t l ACCORDING TO THE American Heart Association 2010 update, more than 5.7 million people in the United States uffer from heart failure.1-3 The prevalence of heart failure in the United States has been rising with the aging population. The annual number of heart failure–related hospitalizations has risen to more than 1 million and has resulted in combined direct and indirect costs approximating $40 billion.1,2 Despite adancements in the pharmacologic management of heart failure, ortality rates have remained relatively unchanged. After a iagnosis of heart failure, the 1-year mortality rate is 20%,1 and nce a patient has American College of Cardiology/American eart Association stage D heart failure (ie, end-stage heart ailure), the 2-year mortality rate approaches 75%.4 Although ardiac transplantation has excellent results for the treatment of nd-stage heart failure, this option is limited severely by the umber of available donor organs, with the annual number of eart transplants having plateaued at approximately 2,300 over he last 15 years. In 1991, since the landmark Randomized valuation of Mechanical Assistance of Chronic Heart Failure REMATCH) trial showed improved 1and 2-year survival ates in the mechanical circulatory support group versus the edical management group,5 left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have taken a more prominent role in the management of heart failure. Since 2006 when the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support started collecting data on mechanical circulatory support devices, more than 3,000 primary adult LVADs have been implanted.6 Parides et al7 estimated that between 20,000 and 60,000 patients could enefit from LVAD therapy annually.