cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rheological study of steady shear and linear viscoelastic characteristics of polyethylene and polycarbonate nanocomposites

The addition of nano-sized particles into a polymer matrix is an excellent way to manipulate polymer properties. Our current efforts try to understand how a material’s properties are influenced by parameters such as temperature, particle size, and particle concentrations of additives. This paper presents the rheological behavior of polycarbonate (PC) and low density polyethylene (LDPE) containing at least 2.5% and 5% weight fractions of functionalized and un-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs). These materials were investigated using steady shear and oscillatory rheometry over a range of processing temperatures. The properties examined through rheological experimentation include: viscosity, critical strain, storage modulus (G′), and loss modulus (G ). The nanocomposites samples were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV light microscopy.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Effect of Horn Flies on Behavior of Cattle

Activities of yearling steers that were treated or not treated for control of Haematobia irritans (L.) were recorded from direct observation. During the day, untreated steers spent more time walking and resting than did treated steers, and it appeared that they traveled ca. 0.5 km/day more than treated steers. Untreated steers ruminated longer and masticated more boluses during the day than did treated steers, but they masticated each bolus fewer times and for shorter periods than did treated steers. Frequency of tail switching was always greater for untreated than for treated steers. Steer activity changes due to horn flies may account for the reduced weight gains attributed to this pest.
Suppression of the Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless transition in 2D superconductors by macroscopic quantum tunneling.

The evolution with thickness of the properties of quench-deposited homogeneous amorphous bismuth (a-Bi) thin films with a 14.67 A amorphous antimony (a-Sb) underlayer has been studied. In contrast with the results of previous investigations on similar systems the transition between the insulating and superconducting regimes is not direct, but involves an intervening metallic regime over a range of thicknesses. For these metallic films the temperature dependencies of the resistances at temperatures above the metallic regime can be described by the Halperin-Nelson form suggesting the occurrence of a Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless (BKT) transition at lower temperatures. However, this transition never occurs as curves of R(T) flatten out as temperature is reduced. We suggest that this phenomenon is evidence of a crossover between a classical regime of thermal vortex unbinding at high temperatures and a regime of macroscopic quantum tunneling at low temperatures. The latter prevents the BKT transition from occurring.
Reradiate Computation Model of Transmission Line to the Shortwave

The actual model of the transmission line and tower is too complex, the matrix formed by the actual model will exceed the computer's ability, so there is no mature way to analyze the passive interference of the high voltage transmission line to the wireless station nearby. Beginning with the theory of the passive interference , we gave the simplified model of the tower and the transmission line by using equivalent way, which made the simulation of the passive interference to be possible . The simplified model is verified by comparing with the direction finding error experiments data, and it is proved that it can be used in designing the protecting distance between the UHV transmission line and the wireless station nearby in the future.
Effects of cultivar, phenology, and Xylella fastidiosa infection on grapevine xylem sap and tissue phenolic content

Abstract Phenolic compounds, which may provide tolerance to Pierce's disease [caused by Xylella fastidiosa (Xf)], were examined in non-infected and Xf-infected Chardonnay, Merlot, and Rubired grapevines at three different times during the growing season. Xylem sap and tissue phenolic levels were substantially affected by phenology, with greatest levels occurring in August. Merlot grapevines generally possessed greater phenolic levels than Chardonnay or Rubired, and also had greater symptoms than Rubired. Infection status affected phenolic levels little or not at all. Therefore, the potential induction of phenolics in response to Xf infection did not affect phenolic levels as much as phenology or cultivar.
The isolation and partial characterization of sulfonamide-resistant carbonic anhydrases from the liver of the male rat.

The liver of the adult male rat contains carbonic anhydrase activity which is 10,000 times less sensitive to inhibition by acetazolamide than the carbonic anhydrase present in female rat liver or canine liver from either sex, or in rat kidney or erythrocytes from either sex. By contrast, inhibition of the carbonic anhydrase activity from the livers of male rats by cyanide or bisulfide anions occurs with I50 values similar to those of rat erythrocyte carbonic anhydrase. Using standard biochemical techniques, we have shown that the activity exists as four isoenzymatic forms, consisting of two major and two minor species. The two major species have been isolated, and run as single bands on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. They both have a molecular weight of approximately 29,000, as determined by molecular sieve chromatography, and probably contain 1 atom of zinc per molecule. The enzymes retain their resistance to inhibition by acetazolamide throughout the isolation procedure. The turnover number is about 3300 sec-1, roughly 1% of that of human red cell carbonic anhydrase C and most tissue carbonic anhydrases.
Legal Versus Common Sense Advocacy to Improve Home Healthcare Quality.

This month as I focus on medical malpractice, I uncovered a myriad of law offices throughout the nation trolling for home healthcare cases. Reasons given to contact these law firms for possible monetary remedy were: a) negligence by visiting nurses; b) medication errors such as failure to check for
Chapter 1 – Semi-empirical strategies for predicting adhesion

This chapter mainly focuses on the individual adhesive joint. Adhesion refers to a complicated set of inter-connected phenomena that is far from being completely understood, and therefore, the chapter, at the outset, inquires into the reasonableness of any attempts to predict it using semi-empirical methods. . There may be ambiguity with respect to what is to be predicted. It may refer to the strength of an isolated adhesive joint as determined by some carefully crafted mechanical test in which the joint is destroyed, or it may refer to the strength of a more complex global structure—such as a multi-layer laminate, or a fiber-reinforced or particle-filled composite. The chapter concerns adhesive failure, and therefore focuses on interfacial strength.
A strategy for alleviating aviation shortages through the recruitment of women

This mixed-methods study investigated the experiences of female pilots. Commercial and corporate female pilots answered the following question, 'How can we recruit and retain more women pilots'? 61 surveys and 10 interviews were completed by people of different gender, age, and nationality. Two qualitative software packages were utilised for analysis. The results of this study indicate that US and Canadian female pilots face significant barriers to their career paths, confirming studies in the UK and Australia. Themes found include: need for supportive other, need for confident, strong personality, parental and familial encouragement, desire for challenge and excitement, need for awareness and role models, and systems-level problems. Conclusions and implications include: remove barriers and impediments, lower cost for entry and increase initial salaries, increase visibility and outreach, address retention in addition to recruitment, leadership and organisational support, importance of culture and support, and provide more flexibility in scheduling and structure.
Nucleus-nucleus total cross sections for light nuclei at 1.55 and 2.89 GeV/c per nucleon

We have measured total cross sections for protons, dueterons, $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles, and $^{12}\mathrm{C}$ on hydrogen, deuterium, helium, and carbon targets at 1.55 and 2.89 GeV/c nucleon using the "good geometry" transmission method. In addition, we measured the inelastic cross sections and elastic slope parameters for reactions initiated by deuterons, $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particles, and $^{12}\mathrm{C}$. Our results are in good agreement with Glauber theory predictions, but the factorization relation ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{T}(\mathrm{AA})=\frac{{[{\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{T}(\mathrm{AB})]}^{2}}{{\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{T}(\mathrm{BB})}$ is not a good guide. We find ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{T}\ensuremath{\simeq}144{({{A}_{T}}^{\frac{1}{3}}\ensuremath{-}{{A}_{p}}^{\frac{1}{3}}\ensuremath{-}1.48)}^{2}$ mb and ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{\mathrm{IN}}\ensuremath{\simeq}78{({{A}_{T}}^{\frac{1}{3}}+{{A}_{p}}^{\frac{1}{3}}\ensuremath{-}1.25)}^{2}$ mb, where ${A}_{T}({A}_{p})$ is the atomic mass number of the target (projectile).NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{12}\mathrm{C}(^{12}\mathrm{C}, X)$, ($\ensuremath{\alpha}, X$), ($d, X$), ($p, X$), $E=0.87 \mathrm{and} 2.10$ GeV/nucleon; measured total cross section, total inelastic cross section, and slope parameter of elastic scattering.
Why Multivariate Methods are Usually Vital

Multivariate statistical analyses are appropriate whenever a study involves two or more outcome variables. Because multiple-outcome models reflect social reality more accurately than do conventiona...
Streptococcus intermedius: An Unusual Case of Purulent Pericarditis

Purulent pericarditis is a rare diagnosis with life-threatening implications due to the rapid accumulation of pericardial material, swiftly progressing to tamponade physiology. The nature of its quickly evolving and severe implications demands a low threshold for diagnostic consideration where appropriate. We present an unusual case of purulent pericarditis secondary to Streptococcus intermedius in a previously healthy male adolescent without traditional risk factors, which raises the question of whether emergent S. intermedius species may have acquired novel molecular mechanisms.
Students' Understanding of Bar Graphs and Histograms: Results From the LOCUS Assessments

Bar graphs and histograms are core statistical tools that are widely used in statistical practice and commonly taught in classrooms. Despite their importance and the instructional time devoted to t...
Prevalence estimation when disease status is verified only among test positives: Applications in HIV screening programs.

The first goal of the United Nations' 90-90-90 HIV/AIDS elimination strategy is to ensure that, by 2020, 90% of HIV-positive people know their HIV status. Estimating the prevalence of HIV among people eligible for screening allows assessment of the number of additional cases that might be diagnosed through continued screening efforts in this group. Here, we present methods for estimating prevalence when HIV status is verified by a gold standard only among those who test positive on an initial, imperfect screening test with known sensitivity and specificity. We develop maximum likelihood estimators and asymptotic confidence intervals for use in 2 scenarios: when the total number of test negatives is known (Scenario 1) and unknown (Scenario 2). We derive Bayesian prevalence estimators to account for non-negligible uncertainty in previous estimates of the sensitivity and specificity. The Scenario 1 estimator consistently outperformed the Scenario 2 estimator in simulations, demonstrating the use of recording the number of test negatives in public health screening programs. For less accurate tests (sensitivity and specificity < 90%), the performance of the 2 estimators was comparable, suggesting that, under these circumstances, prevalence can still be estimated with adequate precision when the number of test negatives is unknown. However, use of the Bayesian approach to account for uncertainty in the sensitivity and specificity is especially recommended for the Scenario 2 estimator, which was particularly sensitive to misspecification of these values. R code for implementing these methods is available at hsph.harvard.edu/donna-spiegelman/software.
Generalized weighted model counting: an efficient monte-carlo meta-algorithm (working paper)

In this paper, we focus on computing the prices of securities represented by logical formulas in combinatorial prediction markets when the price function is represented by a Bayesian network. This problem turns out to be a natural extension of the weighted model counting (WMC) problem [1], which we call generalized weighted model counting (GWMC) problem. In GWMC, we are given a logical formula F and a polynomial-time computable weight function. We are asked to compute the total weight of the valuations that satisfy F. Based on importance sampling, we propose a Monte-Carlo meta-algorithm that has a good theoretical guarantee for formulas in disjunctive normal form (DNF). The meta-algorithm queries an oracle algorithm that computes marginal probabilities in Bayesian networks, and has the following theoretical guarantee. When the weight function can be approximately represented by a Bayesian network for which the oracle algorithm runs in polynomial time, our meta-algorithm becomes a fully polynomial-time randomized approximation scheme (FPRAS).
Why it Worked: Participants' Insights into an mHealth Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Intervention in China.

Background Few Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) adherence trials investigate the reasons for intervention success or failure among HIV-positive individuals. Objectives To conduct qualitative research to explore the reasons for effectiveness of a 6-month mHealth (mobile health) trial that improved adherence among ART patients in China. The intervention utilized Wireless Pill Containers (WPCs) to provide, real-time SMS reminders, WPC-generated adherence reports, and report-informed counseling. Methods We conducted in-depth interviews with 20 intervention-arm participants immediately following the trial. Sampling was purposeful to ensure inclusion of participants with varied adherence histories. Questions covered adherence barriers and facilitators, and intervention experiences. We analyzed data in nVivo using a thematic approach. Results Of participants, 14 (70%) were male; 7 (35%) had used injectable drugs. Pre-intervention, 11 were optimal adherers and 9 were suboptimal adherers, using a 95% threshold. In the final intervention month, all but 3 (85%) attained optimal adherence. Participants identified a range of adherence barriers and facilitators, and described various mechanisms for intervention success. Optimal adherers at baseline were motivated by positive adherence reports at monthly clinic visits-similar to receiving A+ grades. For suboptimal adherers, reminders facilitated the establishment of adherence-promoting routines; data-guided counseling helped identify strategies to overcome specific barriers. Conclusion Different behavioral mechanisms appear to explain the success of an mHealth adherence intervention among patients with varying adherence histories. Positive reinforcement was effective for optimal adherers, while struggling patients benefitted from reminders and data-informed counseling. These findings are relevant for the design and scalability of mHealth interventions and warrant further investigation.
A Pilot Study to Investigate the Relationship Between Interaural Differences in Temporal Bone Anatomy and Normal Variations in Caloric Asymmetry.

Purpose This study assesses interaural differences in temporal bone anatomy in subjects with normal caloric findings. Method Eligible patients included those referred to the Duke University Medical...
Oriented growth of ZnO crystals on self-assembled monolayers of functionalized alkyl silanes

Highly ordered ZnO crystals of 0.15 μm width and 0.5 μm length were grown on silicon wafers coated with a monolayer of SiCl3(CH2)11−O−C6H5 molecules. Various techniques (contact angle measurements, ellipsometry, ATR-FTIR) were employed for determining the quality of the monolayer coating. In addition, the bare and silane-coated Si wafers were studied by X-ray reflectivity (XR) and grazing-incidence diffraction (GID) using synchrotron radiation. The results obtained point to a possible relationship between the organization of the self-assembled monolayer (SAM) coating, the dipole moment of the headgroup, and the orientation of the ZnO crystals.
Controlling the Emissive Activity in Heterocyclic Systems Bearing C═P Bonds

The photophysical properties of a series of heteroatom substituted indoles are explored to identify chemical means to control their emissive activity. In particular, we consider impacts of changes in the conjugated backbone, where the C═N bonds of benzoxazoles are replaced by C═P bonds (benzoxaphospholes). The effects of extending the π-conjugation, incorporating various secondary heteroatoms (X–C═P), and enforcing planar rigidity are also examined. Our computational analysis explains the higher fluorescence efficiency observed with extended π-conjugation and highlights the importance of maintaining molecular planarity at both ground- and emissive-state geometries.
The Boston Area Diary Study and the Moral Citizenship of Care

This paper describes the theoretical foundations, empirical findings, and practical and philosophical implications of the Boston Area Diary Study (BADS), a study of the caring behavior of 44 participants over one calendar year. In particular, the paper presents an identification theory of care and discusses how it shaped the conceptualization, collection, and analysis of the data in a year-long diary study of daily voluntary assistance. The findings from the BADS (1) theoretically confirm the identification theory of care; (2) methodologically capture how individuals perceive and carry out caring behavior as a unity; and (3rpar; empirically document the existence of a moral citizenship in America that is substantially more vigorous than is implied by the usual indicators of civic and political citizenship.
Neuroimaging in Normal Aging and Dementia

In the work-up of the dementia patient, contemporary neuroimaging in the form of routine computerized tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging has become an essential procedure (Caselli, 1995; Corey-Bloom et al., 1995; Kucharczyk, Moseley, & Barkovich, 1994; Osborn, 1994). While neuroimaging studies do not provide definitive tests for the diagnosis of a dementing disorder, they do permit the determination of presence/ absence of cerebral atrophy (a hallmark sign in many dementing illnesses) and the detection of potentially treatable factors producing dementia-like problems (i.e., tumors, vascular abnormalities, chronic subdural hematomas, infection, etc.). Although not definitive of a particular dementing illness, there are characteristics observed in neuroimaging studies that aid in the differential diagnosis of a dementing illness (i.e., Alzheimer’s disease [AD] vs. multi-infarct dementia [MID]). Additionally, the degree of degenerative change observed on brain imaging typically has some relationship to symptom severity and also may aid in monitoring progression. These various topics form the basis of this chapter. However, because dementing illnesses are superimposed on an aging brain, neuroimaging findings in normal aging will be discussed first.
A Basis for Variable Structure Models in Human Biology

Several recent biological applications of variable structure, and particularly bilinear, models are summarized here. An attempt is made to integrate various scattered results and concepts into a more unified base for future research. The common thread of adaptive or variable structure systems and the apparent shortcomings of linear models are apparent.
Effect of ErwiniaHerbicola on the Motility and Chemotaxis of ErwiniaAmylovora

Erwiniaherbicola (112Y), a common leaf saprophyte, has been reported to inhibit apple blossom infection by Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight of Rosaceous plants. Optimum conditions required for motility and chemotaxis in E. herbicola (112Y) were determined by the capillary assay. To better understand the saprophyte’s role in preventing blossom blight infection, the effect of E. herbicola cells and culture filtrates on the motility and chemotaxis of E. amylovora (#110) was studied. High concentrations of E. herbicola cells in both the pond and capillary inhibited motility and chemotaxis of E. amylovora. Culture filtrates (CF) of E. herbicola also reduced the chemotactic response of E. amylovora towards malate. However, CF of E. herbicola enhanced motility of E. amylovora. Inhibition of E. amylovora chemotaxis towards malate by E. herbicola may be the result of malate utilization by E. herbicola during the capillary assay thus reducing the chemotactic response of E. amylovora. Two different strains of E. herbicola could utilize malate as a sole carbon and energy source.
Development of Children’s Attention to Stimulus Components

It is generally recognized that selective attention plays an important role in cognition (e. g., Broadbent, 1971; Gibson, 1969). People do not necessarily process or “take in” all of the sensory information to which they are exposed but often may select certain information on which to concentrate their attention. Among the ways in which selective attention functions is in the discrimination of objects. Typically, objects in the world differ in several components (“features,” “imensions”), such as their shape, color, or size. When differentiating among objects an individual may not make use of all these components but may attend only to a selected portion of them. Thus, for example, a person may distinguish an object from others principally on the basis of a single component, such as its shape, even though the objects may differ in a number of features.
Inhibition of CYP2E1 With Propylene Glycol Does Not Protect Against Hepatocellular Injury in Human Acetaminophen Daily-Dosing Model.

Acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury is initiated by metabolism of APAP by the cytochrome P-450 (CYP) system, primarily CYP2E1. We previously demonstrated CYP inhibition following administration of a liquid APAP formulation containing propylene glycol, a CYP2E1 inhibitor, and other excipients. This study was undertaken to determine if propylene glycol specifically inhibits production of CYP-derived metabolites and if propylene glycol reduces the rise in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) seen following prolonged APAP dosing. Human subjects were randomized to receive 4 g of APAP daily in one arm of the study or 4 g of APAP with 5 mL of 99% propylene glycol in the other arm, both for 14 days. After a washout period of at least 14 days, subjects were crossed over between arms. Outcomes were rise of ALT greater than 2 times baseline (responders) and proportion of randomly sampled CYP-derived metabolites relative to total metabolites produced. There was no difference in percentage of responders between treatment groups: 6 of 21 in the APAP group (29%) compared with 8 of 20 in the APAP + propylene glycol group (40%); chi-square, P = .59. For all subjects, the mean percentage of CYP-derived metabolites produced was 5.8% (APAP) versus 4.3% (APAP + propylene glycol); P = .018. This effect was solely attributable to the responders: the mean percentage of CYP metabolites of responders was 7.7% (APAP) versus 4.6% (APAP + propylene glycol), P = .050, whereas there was no difference for the nonresponders. Five subjects were responders in both arms (2% probability of random occurrence). Our data indicates that propylene glycol inhibits CYP2E1 metabolism of APAP in some subjects but does not effect hepatocellular indury at the dose given.
5-Hydroxymethylcytosine Profiles Are Prognostic of Outcome in Neuroblastoma and Reveal Transcriptional Networks That Correlate With Tumor Phenotype

PURPOSEWhole-genome profiles of the epigenetic modification 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) are robust diagnostic biomarkers in adult patients with cancer. We investigated if 5-hmC profiles would s...
Erratum to: The Si-Ta (silicon-tantalum) system

In Vol. 15, No. 1, p. 93 of “The Si-Ta (Silicon Tantalum) System” by M.E. Schlesinger, a figure was placed in an incorrect figure box. The diagram shown in the Fig. 2 box should have been the top figure on p. 91, as it is the phase diagram showing experimental points. The correct Fig. 2 is shown above with its caption.
Perceived Stress Mediates the Association between Deployment Sexual Trauma and Nicotine Dependence in Women Veterans.

Abstract Background Rates of smoking and related health consequences are higher for women veterans as compared with their civilian counterparts, and trauma is a known risk factor associated with smoking. Military sexual trauma is prevalent among women veterans and associated with deleterious health outcomes, including tobacco use. However, research has not examined variables that may explain this association. The purpose of the present study was to examine the association between deployment sexual trauma (DST; military sexual trauma that occurs during deployment) and nicotine dependence, and whether perceived stress is a potential explanatory variable (i.e., mediator) in this relationship. Methods Cross-sectional associations and Hayes mediation models were examined using baseline interview data from the Survey of Experiences of Returning Veterans sample (352 recently returned women veterans). Results DST was associated with postdeployment nicotine dependence and greater perceived stress. Further, perceived stress was a significant mediator between DST and binary nicotine dependence (indirect effect [standard error] of DST on nicotine dependence through perceived stress, 0.04 [0.01]; 95% confidence interval, 0.01–0.07; odds ratio, 1.04; p Conclusions Findings suggest that perceived stress may be a clinical target for decreasing nicotine dependence among women veterans who have experienced DST.
Moving Forward or Backsliding: A Causal Inference Analysis of the Effects of the Shelby Decision in North Carolina:

The Voting Rights Act created a method of oversight called “preclearance,” which was designed to prevent changes in state and local voting laws that may negatively affect minority groups. Following...
Design of nanomaterials for applications in maternal/fetal medicine

Pregnancy complications are commonplace and the challenges of treatment during pregnancy with few options available pose a risk to the health of both the mother and baby. Patients suffering from conditions such as preeclampsia, placenta accreta, and intrauterine growth restriction have few treatment options apart from emergency caesarean section. Fortunately, researchers are beginning to develop nanomedicine-based therapies that could be utilized to treat conditions affecting the mother, placenta, or fetus to improve the prognosis for mothers and their unborn children. This review summarizes the field's current understanding of nanoparticle biodistribution and therapeutic effect following systemic or vaginal administration and overviews the design parameters researchers should consider when developing nanomedicines for maternal/fetal health. It also describes safety considerations for nanomedicines to limit undesirable maternal or fetal side effects and discusses future work that should be performed to advance nanomedicine for maternal/fetal health. With additional development and implementation, the application of nanomedicine to treat pregnancy complications may mitigate the need for emergency caesarean sections and allow pregnancies to extend to term.
Machine Learning Algorithms for Traffic Interruption Detection

Detection of traffic interruptions is a critical aspect of managing traffic on urban road networks. This work outlines a semi-supervised strategy to automatically detect traffic interruptions occurring on arteries using high resolution data from widely deployed inductive loop detectors. The techniques highlighted in this paper are tested on data collected from detectors installed on more than 300 signalized intersections over a 6 month period. Our results show that we can detect interruptions with high precision and recall.
Systemic inflammation and protease profile of Afro-Caribbean patients with sepsis:

Objectives:Sepsis is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality within the healthcare system and remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. A major issue in the diagnosis of sepsis i...
Abdominal bracing changes lower quarter muscle activity but not reach distances during active forward reach on an unstable surface.

Abstract Objective This study examined the effects of abdominal bracing maneuver (ABM) performance on stable and unstable surfaces on active forward reach (AFR) distance as a measure of trunk control, measuring changes in reach distance and muscle activation patterns. Design Single-group, repeated measures design. Methods Twenty-eight subjects (mean age 25 ± 5.09 years) performed an AFR with and without ABM while on stable and unstable surfaces. Lower quarter muscle activity and forward reach distances were recorded. Results Forward reach distances on the unstable surface were significantly decreased compared to the stable condition with and without ABM (p Conclusion Reach distances decreased on the unstable surface, but ABM did not change reaching distance. Ankle muscle co-contraction occurred during ABM trials and posterior chain activity increased. These changes suggest ABM may be beneficial during forward reaching activities.
Flows in Networks

Graphs are used to model situations in which a commodity is transported from one location to another. A common example is the water supply, where the pipelines are edges, vertices represent water users, pipe joins, and so on. In the example of an air-line, given in Section 2.3, we can interpret freight or passengers as commodities to be transported. Highway Systems can be thought of as transporting cars. In many examples it is natural to interpret some or all edges as directed (some roads are one-way, water can flow only in one direction at a time in a given pipe, and so on). A common feature of transportation Systems is the existence of a capacity associated with each edge — the maximum number of cars that can use a road in an hour, the maximum amount of water that can pass through a pipe, and so on.
Nondestructive SEM for surface and subsurface wafer imaging

The scanning electron microscope (SEM) is considered as a tool for both failure analysis as well as device characterization. A survey is made of various operational SEM modes and their applicability to image processing methods on semiconductor devices.
The Chloroplast Nuclear Photosynthesis Genes

Conversion of solar energy to chemical energy, on which all organisms ultimately depend to sustain growth, occurs in chloroplasts. There currently is some evidence that the harvest index for cereal crops has reached its theoretical maximum via increased efficiency of grain production. Thus, further gains may not be possible unless plant productivity is increased either by increases in rates of photosynthesis or by strategies which decrease competition by weeds and pests. Some traditional breeding practices show encouraging results. For instance, increasing the ploidy levels of alfalfa from diploid to tetraploid appears to result in doubling the levels of ribulose-1, 5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RUBISCO) and, as a result, increased carbon fixation (1). Similarly, chloroplast-encoded genes can be introduced into crop species by using a wild relative carrying the desired gene as the female parent in traditional crosses. However, these methods have limitations. Alfalfa octoploids did not contain twice as much RUBISCO as tetraploids. In the case of introducing genes encoded in chloroplast DNA, it may not be possible to find a compatible species carrying the desired trait.
In vivo veritas : The search for TB drug targets goes live

The term 'microbial persistence' describes a phenomenon whereby microorganisms which are drug-susceptible when tested outside the body are nevertheless capable of surviving within the body despite intensive therapy with the appropriate antimicrobial drug. In clinical practice this phenomenon obviously has to do with the post-treatment 'carrier state' and with post-treatment relapse. In short, it is this phenomenon which is responsible for our inability to eradicate an infection from a person or a community by the use of drugs. - Walsh McDermott, The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine 30, 257 (1958).
Regulation of hepatic glycogen synthetase. Stimulation of glycogen synthetase in an in vitro liver system by insulin bound to sepharose.

Abstract Glycogen synthetase in an in vitro liver system was activated by Sepharose-bound insulin as well as by free insulin. The incorporation of uniformly C14-labeled glucose into glycogen was also stimulated by either Sepharose-bound or free insulin. These results suggest that activation of glycogen synthetase by insulin is mediated by the interaction of insulin with the external cellular membrane and does not require the entry of the hormone into the cell. Furthermore, it is shown that activation of glycogen synthetase by insulin requires the maintenance of intact cells. Thus, the hormone had no effect on glycogen synthetase activity when added to either broken cell suspensions or cell-free homogenates.
Computer applications in controlled fusion research

The application of computers to controlled thermonuclear research (CTR) is essential. In the near future the use of computers in the numerical modeling of fusion systems should increase substantially. A recent panel has identified five categories of computational models to study the physics of magnetically confined plasmas. A comparable number of types of models for engineering studies is called for. The development and application of computer codes to implement these models is a vital step in reaching the goal of fusion power. To meet the needs of the fusion program the National CTR Computer Center has been established at the Lawrence Livermore Laboratory. A large central computing facility is linked to smaller computing centers at each of the major CTR Laboratories by a communication network. The crucial element needed for success is trained personnel. The number of people with knowledge of plasma science and engineering trained in numerical methods and computer science must be increased substantially in the next few years. Nuclear engineering departments should encourage students to enter this field and provide the necessary courses and research programs in fusion computing. (auth)
Morphology and growth behavior of O2-free chemical bath deposited ZnS thin films

Abstract We investigate the role of reagent concentrations and ambient O2 on the morphology and growth behavior of ZnS thin films grown with the chemical bath deposition method. We investigate the role of substrate on film morphology, and find significant differences between films deposited on SiO2 versus Si. The films are also sensitive to dissolved O2 in the bath, as it causes a layer of SiO2 to form at the ZnS/Si interface during deposition. Degassing of solutions and an N2 atmosphere are effective to minimize this oxidation, allowing deposition of ZnS films directly onto Si. Under these conditions, we examine film properties as they relate to reagent bath concentrations. As the reagent concentrations are decreased, both the film roughness and growth rate decrease linearly. We also observe deformation and shifting of X-ray diffraction peaks that increases with decreasing reagent concentrations. The shifts are characteristic of lattice compression (caused by the substitution of oxygen for sulfur), and the deformation is characteristic of distortion of the lattice near crystal grain interfaces (caused by tensile stress from interatomic forces between neighboring crystal grains). At the weakest concentrations, the low roughness suggests a mixed growth mode in which both clusters and individual ZnS nanocrystallites contribute to film growth. With increasing reagent concentrations, the growth mode shifts and becomes dominated by deposition of clusters.
Cloaking via change of variables for the Helmholtz equation

The transformation optics approach to cloaking uses a singular change of coordinates, which blows up a point to the region being cloaked. This paper examines a natural regularization, obtained by (1) blowing up a ball of radius ρ rather than a point, and (2) including a well-chosen lossy layer at the inner edge of the cloak. We assess the performance of the resulting near-cloak as the regularization parameter ρ tends to 0, in the context of (Dirichlet and Neumann) boundary measurements for the time-harmonic Helmholtz equation. Since the goal is to achieve cloaking regardless of the content of the cloaked region, we focus on estimates that are uniform with respect to the physical properties of this region. In three space dimensions our regularized construction performs relatively well: the deviation from perfect cloaking is of order ρ. In two space dimensions it does much worse: the deviation is of order 1/|log ρ|. In addition to proving these estimates, we give numerical examples demonstrating their sharpness. Some authors have argued that perfect cloaking can be achieved without losses by using the singular change-of-variable-based construction. In our regularized setting the analogous statement is false: without the lossy layer, there are certain resonant inclusions (depending in general on ρ) that have a huge effect on the boundary measurements. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Audio glossing during information-gap activities: The effect on learner output

Abstract This article reports on a study of novice-level learners of French completing information-gap activities, contrasting the language produced by participants with access to audio glosses to that produced by those with no such access. Results suggest multiple benefits from the audio glosses. Quantitative benefits were demonstrated in a higher total percentage of targeted vocabulary items produced by those with access to the audio glosses compared to those without. Participants with glosses also introduced the noun into the conversation in French to a greater extent than those without, who frequently requested forms from their interlocutors in English. Close examination of language forms produced by the learners also indicated greater accuracy of recall of the targeted nouns. Learners with access to the glosses avoided coining new forms, using the glosses to retrieve lexical items when necessary. Learner comments concerning their abilities in French were also less negative from participants in the gloss context. Overall, the results of the study show that participants with access to the audio files produced more of the targeted vocabulary more accurately, with less disruption to communication. In addition, they appeared to benefit from an improved self-image of their ability in French throughout the activity.
Initiation of periovulatory events in primate follicles using recombinant and native human luteinizing hormone to mimic the midcycle gonadotropin surge.

The amplitude and duration of the midcycle LH surge required for periovulatory changes in the primate follicle are incompletely defined. We reported that short (4- to 14-h) LH surges were insufficient to induce periovulatory events after multiple follicular development in macaques. In contrast, an 18- to 24-h LH surge induced oocyte maturation plus granulosa cell luteinization, but did not support corpus luteum function. In this study, the periovulatory changes following LH surges of 48 h elicited using pituitary (pit) or recombinant (r) human (h) LH were compared to those after 24-h LH surge durations or after urinary hCG (u-hCG) treatment. Beginning at menses, rhesus monkeys were treated with human gonadotropins for 9 days to stimulate follicular growth. On day 10, animals (n = 3-5/group) received 1) a single injection of u-hCG [79 +/- 3 micrograms RP-1 equivalents (equiv), im], 2) two injections of pit-hLH (91 +/- 4 micrograms RP-1 equiv, im), 3) one injection of r-hLH (21 +/- 1 micrograms RP-1 equiv, ...
Is it juvenile rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia

The occurrence of transient musculoskeletal pain and fatigue is common in adolescents. When these complaints become persistent and chronic, interfering with the adolescent's daily activities and the appropriate developmental tasks for this stage of life, an explanation of the cause and a plan for how to resume a normal lifestyle are necessary. When a challenge to the teenager's health limits skeletal growth, pubertal progression, mobility, self-reliance, or a sense of mastery of the environment (at present or for the future), the physician is challenged with making a diagnosis and tailoring a treatment plan that attempts to restore the biophysiologic and the psychosocial milieu of the patient and his or her family. When the adolescent's complaints include swelling, arthralgia, lack of energy, and morning stiffness, the differential diagnosis, although broad, may begin with the question as to whether the patient is suffering from an inflammatory disease or a noninflammatory process. Of the inflammatory diseases that affect adolescents, the most prevalent illness that includes chronic joint pain, swelling, and morning stiffness, frequently accompanied by fatigue or lack of energy, is juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). Of the noninflammatory conditions that affect this age group with this symptom complex, the fibromyalgia syndrome (FS) must be considered. The presence of JRA does not preclude the coexistence of FS, 43 and FS can be found in patients with inflammatory diseases other than JRA. 49 JRA and FS have well-defined diagnostic criteria set forth by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR). Neither JRA nor FS has laboratory tests or radiographic findings that are necessary or specific for diagnosis, making the history and physical examination of ultimate importance. Laboratory tests and imaging examination are necessary only to exclude other disease entities that may mimic or confound the diagnosis.
Results of a pilot test of a self-administered smartphone-based treatment system for alcohol use disorders: usability and early outcomes.

ABSTRACT. Background: This paper provides results from a pilot study focused on assessing early-stage effectiveness and usability of a smartphone-based intervention system that provides a stand-alone, self-administered intervention option, the Location-Based Monitoring and Intervention for Alcohol Use Disorders (LBMI-A). The LBMI-A provided numerous features for intervening with ongoing drinking, craving, connection with supportive others, managing life problems, high-risk location alerting, and activity scheduling. Methods: Twenty-eight participants, ranging in age from 22 to 45, who met criteria for an alcohol use disorder used an LBMI-A–enabled smartphone for 6 weeks. Results: Participants indicated the LBMI-A intervention modules were helpful in highlighting alcohol use patterns. Tools related to managing alcohol craving, monitoring consumption, and identifying triggers to drink were rated by participants as particularly helpful. Participants also demonstrated significant reductions in hazardous alcoh...
Genome-wide responses of a pathogenic bacterium to its host

abundance and processing; and (c) protein expression, modification, and localization. Of these, a wealth of information bears on gene transcriptional regulation. Data from completed bacterial genome sequences suggest a direct relationship between the breadth of environmental conditions encountered by a bacterium and the number of genes in its genome that are predicted to encode transcriptional regulatory factors (2). Escherichia coli is particularly well endowed, presumably reflecting environmental transitions in and out of the intestinal tract (3). On closer examination of this species, we now recognize an immense degree of genomic heterogeneity among different serovars and pathovars.
Second kind integral equations for the classical potential theory on open surfaces II

A second kind integral equation formulation is presented for the Dirichlet problem for the Laplace equation in two dimensions, with the boundary conditions specified on a collection of open curves. The performance of the obtained apparatus is illustrated with several numerical examples. The formulation is a simplification of the equation previously constructed by the authors.
MONOCLONAL AUTOANTIBODIES TO ACETYLCHOLINE RECEPTORS: EVIDENCE FOR A DOMINANT IDIORPE AND REQUIREMENT OF COMPLEMENT FOR PATHOGENICITY*

An antigenic determinant of mammalian muscle acetylcholine receptors (AChR) remote from the ACh-binding site and exposed extracellularly at the neuromuscular junction has been defined by monoclonal autoantibodies (McAb's). The determinant is a dominant antigen in the rat's autoimmune response to AChR. It was defined by four IgG McAb's (from two individual donor rats) which shared a common idiotype (Id) complementary to the AChR determinant. These four McAb's bound to AChR in vivo and induced experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG). They also bound to nonjunctional AChR on living myotubes in culture at 37 degrees and caused loss of alpha-bungarotoxin (alpha-BT) binding sites. The McAb's did not inhibit binding of alpha-BT to solubilized AChR or to nonjunctional AChR in membranes of muscle cells held at 4 degrees C. Impairment of neuromuscular transmission by the McAb's required activation of complement via the classical pathway. In the absence of C3 leads to C9, or in isolated deficiency of C4, binding of McAb's to at least 62% of AChR for 72 hours in vivo did not alter miniature endplate potentials (MEPPs) or EPPs or reduce the muscle's content of AChR. The common Id was detectable in sera of rats immunized with AChR of either Torpedo, eel or syngeneic muscle. Anti-Id antibodies raised against 3 of the McAb's inhibited in vitro binding of each of the 4 McAb's to AChR; absorption of one anti-Id by a second McAb removed inhibitory activity for all McAb's. However, when rats with high titers of anti-Id were challenged by immunization with torpedo AChR, the severity of EAMG was undiminished despite a continuing excess of anti-Id antibodies. Success of the anti-Id approach to therapy of myasthenia gravis may require definition of several antigenic determinants of human muscle AChR with which patients' auto-antibodies interact in vivo.
Deliberative Democracy and International Labor Standards

Political theorists have argued that the methods of deliberative democracy can help to meet challenges such as legitimacy, effective governance, and citizen education in local and national contexts. These basic insights can also be applied to problems of international governance such as the formulation, implementation, and monitoring of labor standards. A participatory and deliberative democratic approach to labor standards would push the labor–standards debate into the global public sphere. It would seek to create broad discussion about labor standards that would include not only firms and regulators, but also consumers, nongovernmental organizations, journalists, and others. This discussion could potentially improve (1) the quality of labor standards by incorporating considerations of economic context and firm capability, (2) their implementation by bringing to bear not only state sanctions but also political and market pressures, and (3) the education and understanding of citizens. Whereas the role of public agencies in state–centered approaches is to formulate and enforce labor standards, central authorities in the decentralized–deliberative approach would foster the transparency of workplace practices to spur an inclusive, broad, public conversation about labor standards. To the extent that a substantive consensus around acceptable behavior emerges from that conversation, public power should also enforce those minimum standards.
Visualize eHPCs in different zones.

In this issue of Blood, Kohler and colleagues developed a time-lapse intravital imaging method to observe BM cells within long bones of live mice, and found that aged eHPCs localized more distantly to the endosteum than young eHPCs.